Strictly Business Lincoln - May 2020

LINCOLN • MAY 2020 TM

STRICTLY-BUSINESS.COM

Work How You Want.

Where You Want.

With OfficeSuite UC® • EMPLOYING LINCOLN • RESPONDING TO COVID-19 • SEVERE WEATHER • LOVING YOUR HOME CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS • PEACE STUDIO ARCHITECTS • PEMBERLY PLACE • AQUA SYSTEMS • SANDHILLS GLOBAL • DELTA RESTORATION SERVICES • HUNT IRRIGATION

Elizabeth “Biz” Rose Bob Nohavec Plumbing

Dr. Meghan Hungerford

Mark Heisterkamp

Jennie Scheel

Kayla Northup

Brett Bundy

CFO Systems

Star City Dental

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Morton Buildings

Luxury Landscape LLC

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

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The nonprofit organizations that make Lincoln a great place to live deserve their day of recognition. Now the city has one. It’s Give To Lincoln Day and it takes place on May 28th. That’s when we ask everyone to make a gift to our local nonprofits who contribute so much to improving Lincoln. Together, we have the power to raise thousands of dollars and help them change lives.

Go to GiveToLincoln.com and make a gift on

Lincoln.CBMC.com (402) 540-1093

www.cfpin.org (402) 476-4357

www.heartlandcancerfoundation.org (402) 261-9974

www.cedarskids.org (402) 434-5437 www.branchedoakobservatory.com (402) 480-5515

www.FreshStartHome.org (402) 475-7777

www.dsafnebraska.org (402) 421-1338

www.mtko.org (402) 477-4116

lincoln.ja.org (402) 467-1010

www.hopespoke.org (402) 475-7666

www.heart.org (402) 875-7382

www.friendshiphome.org (402) 434-6599

www.LincolnTeamMates.org (402) 436-1990

www.GiveToTabitha.org (402) 486-8509

www.nebraska.wish.org/donate (402) 475-9474

www.domesti-pups.org (402) 465-4201

www.casa4lancaster.org (402) 474-5161

www.lmep.com (402) 483-4581

May 28th.

www.cefnebraska.org (402) 484-7877

www.communityactionatwork.org (402) 471-4515

www.jdrf.org/nebraska (402) 397-2873

www.aidingangels.com (402) 434-2472

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MAY 2020 Strictly Business

1

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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

Responding to a Crisis — An Opportunity to Define Your Company’s Values When the COVID wave hit Lincoln’s shores, I braced myself. There was a lot going through my mind as a business owner. First and foremost, I thought about our clients. The whole goal of Strictly Business is to promote local businesses to help them succeed, so it’s not fun to watch that success be threatened by something so wildly out of my control.

Ultimately, our clients’ success is our success.

The article goes on to say, “A lot of what brands do in the coming months may feel like temporary strategies, but what if this represents an opportunity for brands to define who they truly are and who they will continue to be for the next decade or beyond?”

This is really interesting, and it’s a call to action for us business owners. The decisions we make for our business during the COVID-19 pandemic will be a part of our genetic makeup as an organization going forward. These decisions are being seen and felt by our staff, partners, customers, neighbors, etc. On that same note, businesses The decisions we make for need to be prepared for the floodgates to back up. I believe that the businesses our business during the open that are going to come out of this successfully COVID-19 pandemic will are the ones that never lose sight of the light be a part of our genetic at the end of the tunnel.

There is no denying that social distancing has put a complete halt on many areas of our lives.

While there are silver linings to every cloud, such as gaining perspective on what is really important in life like I talked about in last month’s Letter from the President, this particular cloud is casting a pretty dark shadow on our makeup as an organization When the severity of this crisis knocked at economy. On a local level, I’ve seen the impact going forward.

Strictly Business’s door, Shayne and I brought it’s having on small businesses. Many have the team together to come up with a strategy. had to reinvent themselves, say goodbye to In addition to letting half of the production amazing employees, and even close their doors team work from home, our biggest initiative was to connect with completely for the time being. However, I’ve also witnessed many companies rise to the occasion, regardless of how uncomfortable each of our clients to ask them how we could be doing even more the transition has been, and consumers are making even more of to help them share their message. We made some changes to a conscious effort to buy and spend local. It makes me so proud our editorial calendar to focus on how businesses are responding to the coronavirus, and we took an even stronger approach to to live and conduct business in Lincoln. online sharing than normal to make sure our clients’ content is Hard decisions are going to have to be made one way or another still being seen. during this crisis, but several industry experts have pointed out that pressing pause on marketing efforts may not be the best approach I also want to take this opportunity to say thank you to all our to take. According to a brief conducted by MarketingDive, 43% clients who are sticking with Strictly Business during this time, and of consumers find it reassuring to hear from brands they know all of our readers for their support as well. Everything we do is and trust during a crisis. I want to encourage businesses not to for you. sever communication with their audience but instead, change their message. An article by Ogilvy says it best, “This is not a time to Let Strictly Business help you lock in your status as THE EXPERT try to market or sell, but rather it is a time to reinforce the values in your industry, utilizing print, the internet, and social media. that define leading organizations.”

Find out how by contacting Paige at (402) 466-3330.

CONTENTS NEWS 4 Business 26 Personnel

32 Nonprofit 44 Health

SPOTLIGHTS 20 Star City Six 50 52 54 57 65 80

Peace Studio Architects Pemberly Place Aqua Systems Sandhills Global Delta Restoration Services Hunt Irrigation

FEATURE STORIES 58 Employing Lincoln 61 66 72 79 2

Responding to COVID-19 Severe Weather Loving Your Home Pet Care Strictly Business MAY 2020

ASK THE EXPERT 19 ComPro 47 Lincoln Lymphedema Clinic

COLUMNS 49 Friends4Lunch & Friends4Drinks

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

Strictly Business Magazine 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.

Printed in the U.S.A. Copyright ©2020 by PZAK, Inc. Third Class Postage Paid at Lincoln, NE 68505

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Investment in the Lincoln-area network has made speed upgrades possible for more businesses and families, and anyone who needs help optimizing their home network environment should call to check availability.

One way Kinetic Business can help is offering HD Meeting service free for 90 days if ordered by June 30. This service is a voice and video collaboration tool that keeps productivity high while maintaining social distancing.

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Elizabeth “Biz” Rose Bob Nohavec Plumbing

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“We are all in this together – we live, work, and connect in Lincoln and across Nebraska, and we use the products we sell, like HD Meeting” said Hedrick. “We’re proud to serve our neighbors and keep them connected to everything that’s important now and always.”

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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

Visit www.kineticbusiness.com for more information.

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

Hannah

Katherine

TO REQUEST A FREE SUBSCRIPTION FOR YOUR BUSINESS...

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MAY 2020 Strictly Business

3

BUSINESS NEWS Knotwood Central Acquires U.S. Distributorship

Mid-Plains Industries Makes Protective Shields for Retailers

Knotwood Central recently expanded their market as they became one of only three Knotwood providers to achieve U.S. Distributor status. They can now provide top quality Knotwood products to anywhere in the United States. Some of their recent dealings have taken place in North Carolina, Indiana, and New York, among others. Knotwood Central’s prices have been adjusted in recent weeks to make them even more competitive. Knotwood Central is excited to work with Lincoln residents, commercial contractors, and architects to provide beautiful, environmentally-friendly hardscape to neighbors’ and business’ landscapes.

TM

Perry Gillaspie and Shane Ligon, co-owners of Knotwood Central, are dedicated to educating people on why Knotwood is one of the most environmentally friendly building materials in the market. Unlike other materials that let off harmful products while they deteriorate, Knotwood is VOC and lead free. It creates a smaller environmental footprint and is 100% recyclable. Not only that, it’s also stain and scratch resistant, light weight, and non-combustible.

Knotwood is the future of architecture. There’s nothing like it on the market currently, and its popularity is quickly rising all across the U.S. For more information about Knotwood Central— Lincoln’s personal U.S. Distributor—visit their Facebook page (@KnotwoodNE) or website at divineretail.com. You can also contact Perry at (402) 429-3213 or Shane at (402) 301-8064.

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

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Strictly Business MAY 2020

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In an effort to assist small businesses, which make up 99% of the economy, Mid-Plains Industries based in Columbus, NE, is making portable plastic shields for retail workers: Protek-Shield. The shields are portable and provide a semi-permanent barrier between face-to-face interactions.

“Our retail businesses are looking for ways to stay open and we wanted to find a way to help protect their employees,” said President and CEO Brian Turner. “The shields also give peace of mind to customers who are also cautions about public interactions, yet who still need to go to the store for supplies.”

Protek-Shields are made with a 16ga stainless steel frame and a 1/16inch plexiglass shield. They come in widths of 24” or 36”. Popular uses for them include gas stations, convenience stores, banks, retail stores, and any business that has face-to-face interactions with customers.

Mid-Plains Industries is a division of Central Confinement Service LLC and serves a large variety of manufactures including food processors, agricultural, pharmaceutical, automotive, and other industries. They provide everything from simple parts to complex weldments straight to shelf or assembly line. For more information, contact Brian Turner at (402) 563-6057 / bturner@cencon.com or go online to midplainsind.com.

McGill Restoration Initiates Global Emergency COVID-19 Relief Effort McGill Restoration initiated a global emergency relief effort on March 30 to get KN95 respirators and surgical masks in the hands of hospitals and healthcare workers as they put themselves at risk on the front line, screening and treating individuals with COVID-19.

“Some might see the daily rise of COVID-19 cases and forget these numbers represent a mother, father, a brother, or a sister,” said Tim McGill, owner and president of McGill Restoration. “Every day our healthcare workers are on the front lines treating COVID-19 and risking their lives. When our healthcare workers become ill, we all suffer and fighting this virus becomes more difficult. In order to protect workers and also to maximize capacity in hospitals, we need to get them the necessary personal protective equipment to ensure their own safety so that they can treat those in need.”

Both KN95 respirators and surgical masks are needed. KN95 masks are used to protect the medical professionals. Surgical masks are used to protect the patients and also extend the life of the KN95 respirators.

To get these in the hands of healthcare workers, McGill Restoration partnered with a fellow Entrepreneur’s Organization member to secure manufacturing space with an organization in China to produce the masks. Additionally, McGill partnered with DSV Global Support and Logistics to air freight masks from Shanghai to Cleveland at cost. Once in Cleveland, McGill Restoration will transport masks to hospital systems and businesses across the US. To fund this global COVID-19 emergency relief effort, McGill Restoration donated $50,000 and started a GoFundMe campaign to promote and collect additional donations from other individuals and local businesses.

A total of $107,465 was raised which equated to 163,200 masks, and 118,400 of these masks will be delivered to hospitals in Nebraska.

McGill Restoration is an Omaha-based construction company that specializes in concrete repair and restoration. They provide services for large-scale projects such as parking garages, stadiums, historical buildings, industrial facilities, and other infrastructure construction work across the midwest. Learn more online at mcgillrestoration.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS WISB to Host Online ZOOM Meeting May 13 The Women in Sales & Business (WISB) monthly meeting will be held virtually on Wednesday, May 13, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, WISB will host their May meeting on ZOOM, the online meeting site. The monthly business meeting will be first, followed by networking.

Members and guests will participate in several activities. All women attending/participating should be prepared to give a brief summary of their business, current goals, and a description of their best potential customer. Please register on the WISB Facebook page (@wisblincoln) so the leadership team can send you an invitation to the ZOOM site.

The Women in Sales & Business group traditionally meets at The Venue in the NE/Lancaster Room at 4111 Pioneer Woods Dr. WISB began meeting in 1987 to offer business women in Lincoln the opportunity to network within an all-female setting. Today, their goal is to encourage and develop creative leadership in women. WISB is dedicated to promoting growth through the accumulation and sharing of knowledge and are always looking for new members to join the group! Learn more online at wisblincoln.org.

BBB Offers Education and Tips for Avoiding Coronavirus Scams Because the public is surrounded by conflicting information about COVID-19 that makes it difficult to figure out who and what to listen to, BBB is offering information and tips for avoiding COVID-19 scams.

BBBs are being bombarded by a myriad of reports about scams. They recognize that, unfortunately, when under stress, people are more likely to fall for them.

Below is some advice and tips from your BBB to help you navigate fake news and scams.

Types of Scams Related to the Coronavirus Crisis: • Phony treatments and cures that could be dangerous. The FDA, FTC, and DOJ have landed on companies and websites marketing these false cures.

• Bogus offers for government grants and stimulus payments promoted through phone calls, emails, text messages, and social media. The crooks say an upfront fee is required to get the money.

• Fraudulent websites selling face masks, home testing kits, and even vaccines. There are no approved home testing kits or vaccines.

• Calls to businesses purportedly from government unemployment offices asking for confidential information about employees.

• Phishing emails with dangerous links and attachments • Investment scams • And more BBB Tips to Avoid Becoming the Victim of a Coronavirus Scam: • Be skeptical of miracle cures and consult with a healthcare professional before using any product.

• Check out any seller with the BBB and look for reviews on Google.

• Remember that the government will not ask you to pay a fee or provide your SSN or credit card or bank account number to get a stimulus payment. Grants usually flow through nonprofits rather than directly to consumers.

• Don’t click on links or attachments in emails, text messages, or social media messages unless you’re sure they’re legitimate. Don’t assume they are because they appear to come from a friend.

• Thoroughly research any investment opportunity as well as the seller.

Read more about these and other scams on the Better Business Bureau’s website, BBB.org/scamstudies. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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MAY 2020 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS

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To meet the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Bridge to Better Living is utilizing technology to allow them to remain in touch with clients and communities during the crisis. Consultations and tours will now take place via virtual applications by phone, computer, and digital media until one-on-one services resume. Seniors and their loved ones are still able to continue contacting Transition Consultants with their needs, questions, and concerns. Bridge to Better Living remains committed to Placement with Passion® through challenging times.

Serving Seniors is the heart of Bridge to Better Living, and Transition Consultants have expanded their roles to help the community of 10:58 AM Lincoln during this crisis. Staff members are delivering Meals on Wheels, donating blood, making face masks, and contacting Seniors who are isolated. Families needing assistance to find independent, assisted, memory care, or long-term care are encouraged to contact Bridge to Better Living, a no-cost-to-client service serving Lincoln, Omaha, and surrounding areas. For more information, go online to BridgetoBetterLiving.com or call (402) 802-3301.

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Shelter Insurance® Provides Assistance to Personal Auto Insurance Customers The Shelter Insurance® group of companies was among the first to take the stance of continuing coverage when a customer could not pay their premium, and now Shelter, including its subsidiaries AmShield Insurance®, Haulers Insurance®, and Say Insurance®, will join others in the industry in finding ways to provide relief to customers who insure their personal autos with Shelter.

Many of Shelter’s customers are under unprecedented stay-athome orders and social-distancing mandates, so they are driving fewer miles and experiencing fewer accidents. In the interest of providing help to customers now, when they need it most, Shelter will issue a payment to policyholders representing approximately 30% of their personal auto monthly premium for the months of April and May, based on Shelter’s best estimate of the impact of this pandemic on customers and on Shelter’s business.

Shelter will work diligently to obtain approval from the Departments of Insurance in each state they serve to get this money into their customers’ hands as quickly as possible. If a customer paid their premium automatically through a bank account, they will deposit directly into the account when possible.

Otherwise, they will mail a check.

Shelter Insurance® is a group of companies with four personal lines property and casualty companies, a reinsurance company, and a life insurance company. Shelter offers auto, home, life, farm, and business insurance services to customers in 21 states. More information is available at ShelterInsurance.com or contact your local insurance agent, Matthew Moorhead, at (402) 488-2545 / MMoorhead@shelterinsurance.com.

6 Strictly Business MAY 2020

Kubert Appraisal Group, P.C. Secures Partnership with Valcre Kubert Appraisal Group, P.C. is pleased to announce they have entered a new partnership, combining the industry leading appraisal services of Kubert Appraisal Group, P.C. with Valcre’s world class commercial real estate appraisal technology platform.

With technology playing an increasingly critical role in every aspect of business, Kubert recognized the need to accelerate the utilization of technological solutions to ensure they remain on a competitive forefront and identified Valcre as the ideal partner to make this happen.

“We are excited to partner our company with the Valcre platform of services,” said Thomas Kubert, MAI, CCIM. “Our clients will benefit from the experience and professionalism of this partnership as we continue to provide a full suite of commercial appraisal services to the local market while leveraging the best in class appraisal technology provided by Valcre.”

“Partnering with the Kubert Appraisal Group, P.C. will allow them to continue to provide the very best appraisal services to their clients by working as one team with Valcre and the most current commercial appraisal technology available,” said Cindy Knox, Valcre client success manager.

Valcre offers complete solutions for industry-leading commercial real estate appraisals. Valcre provides an online platform that gives users access to appraisal job assignments, client contacts, and comparables from anywhere through a secure cloud database. Valcre also offers custom templates and personalized reports to add an extra level of professionalism and wow-factor to any appraisal portfolio. To learn more, go online to www.valcre.com.

Kubert Appraisal Group, P.C. provides independent property valuation and consulting services, specializing in the appraisal of commercial real estate, property, and land. Kubert provides appraisal services related to office, industrial, retail, multi-family, urban development, lodging/ hospitality, agricultural, and other special-purpose properties.

For more information, contact Tom Kubert at (531) 500-0890 or by email at tkubert@kubertappraisal.com. To learn more about Kubert Appraisal Group, visit www.kubertappraisal.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS EventLNK to Host Virtual Networking on May 5 to Connect Peers

Guiderock Commercial Realty Represents The Lymphedema Clinic in New Office Lease

Back by popular demand: EventLNK’s Virtual Networking on Tuesday, May 5, at 3:30 p.m.

The virtual networking will be held via ZOOM. Participants will receive a ZOOM link upon registering online. This is a chance to meet and reconnect with some of your EventLNK peers. It’s times like these when organizations have to rely on connections more than ever. EventLNK sees new members join each month, making it easy for the organization as a whole to expand its networking circle.

EventLNK brings together Lincoln’s event professionals by providing education and resources to enhance and support professional growth.

To register for the May networking event, visit www.eventlnk.org and go to the meetings page.

Cathy Kottwitz of Guiderock Commercial Realty represented Lincoln Lymphedema and Occupational Therapy LLC in securing a new space at 3940 Cornhusker Highway to open The Lymphedema Clinic. The new clinic will open May 4, 2020 and focus on treating The lymphedema, which is a swelling Lymphedema in the lymphatic system, through a variety of techniques.

Clinic “Adam Rawson has been helping relieve lymphedema symptoms for Lincoln residents through other venues for some time now.

Establishing this clinic will allow him to reach more affected individuals,” Kottwitz said. “With the condition arising from several different causes, having a dedicated clinic is a great asset to the community.”

The Lymphedema Clinic does a thorough initial evaluation and customizes treatment plans for each patient based on their condition. “Treating lymphedema is part of overall health and is about improving our patients’ quality of life over the long term,” Rawson said.

Guiderock Commercial Realty is a Lincoln-based commercial real estate firm providing services for business owners and investors.

For more information, visit www.guiderockrealty.com or contact Cathy Kottwitz at (402) 421-7474 / cathy@guiderockrealty.com.

Edward Jones Educates Community on CARES Act and Potential Opportunities Bethany Arnold with Edward Jones financial advisors is educating the community on the significance of the passage of the coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to spread a jolt of good news in an otherwise deeply unsettling time. She identified several important components of the CARES Act for people to understand and benefit from in the coming weeks.

Arnold explained that individuals will receive a one-time direct payment of up to $1,200, reduced for incomes over $75,000 and eliminated altogether for incomes of at least $99,000. Joint filers will receive up to $2,400, with this amount reduced for incomes over $150,000 and eliminated at $198,000 for joint filers with no children. Taxpayers with children will also receive an extra $500 for each dependent child under the age of 17.

Arnold also explained that the CARE Act provides $250 billion for extended unemployment insurance, expands eligibility, and provides workers with an additional $600 per week for four months, in addition to what state programs pay. Unemployment benefits will also be extended through December 31 for eligible workers. Provisions also cover the self-employed, independent contractors, and “gig economy” workers.

Arnold further explained that, typically, individuals must pay a 10% penalty on early withdrawals from IRAs, 401(k)s, and similar retirement accounts. Under the CARES Act, this penalty will be waived for individuals who qualify for COVID-19 relief for distributions up to $100,000 in aggregate from IRAs and plans that allow COVID-19 distributions.

Withdrawals will still be taxable, but the taxes can be spread out over three years. Additionally, Arnold explained that owners of traditional IRAs and 401(k)s are usually required to start taking withdrawals from these accounts once they reach 72. The CARES Act waives these required minimum distributions for 2020. Also, 401(k) investors who qualify for COVID-19 relief can now borrow up to $100,000 from their accounts— up from $50,000—provided their plan allows loans.

Arnold also told how the CARES Act provides $349 billion to help small businesses to retain workers and avoid closing up shop, in part through the Paycheck Protection Program, which provides federally-guaranteed loans to small businesses that maintain their payroll during this emergency.

Significantly, these loans may be forgiven if borrowers use the loans for payroll and other essential business expenses (such as mortgage interest, rent and utilities) and maintain their payroll during the crisis.

Edward Jones provides financial services for individual investors in the United States and, through its affiliate, in Canada. You can contact Bethany Arnold to learn more at (402) 421-7418 / bethany.arnold@ edwardjones.com or go online to www.edwardjones.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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We are honored to be named a Money Best Bank in the Midwest and a winner of the 2020 Business Excellence Award. You'll see the difference in how we serve our customers each and every day.

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

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BUSINESS NEWS University of Nebraska Offers 150+ HighQuality Online Programs Collectively offering more than 150 online degree, certificate, and endorsement programs, from bachelor to doctoral across 16 fields of study, the online programs from the University of Nebraska’s four campuses are available in high-demand areas such as business, health care, computer science, and education.

University of Nebraska online programs give adult learners from across the state and around the world access to be taught by the same expert faculty who teach at the four University of Nebraska campuses. Online courses are expertly designed, challenging and relevant. Faculty and staff are extraordinarily responsive to student needs, creating a highly interactive community of learners that encourages and values collaboration between professors and students. As a result, students are well equipped to achieve academic goals and to immediately apply learnings in the workplace.

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The University of Nebraska Online website, online.nebraska.edu, is a key resource for exploring the online programs available from the four campuses of the University of Nebraska.

Lincoln Airport Authority Reducing On-Site Staff to Preserve Safety, Public Health To keep the public and its staff as safe as possible while remaining operational during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Lincoln Airport Authority’s Board of Directors voted last week to shift to essential-only, remote-access staffing.

Effective April 2, all administrative offices will be closed until further notice.

“This pandemic has affected a wide array of industries in our community, and obviously the travel industry is among them,” said David Haring, executive director of the Lincoln Airport Authority. “Like the other businesses in our community that have been hit hard, we’re doing our part to help ensure the safety of travelers and our staff while continuing to operate during this crisis. We’re all in this together.”

As the coronavirus has spread, airports are staying open as essential infrastructure. Switching to a modified staffing model—keeping only the necessary employees on site and allowing those able to complete their jobs remotely to work from home—makes sure the Lincoln Airport maintains operational readiness and its vital role in safe, secure transportation. Withdrawing employees that can complete their jobs from home creates a safer environment for travelers and employees who must remain on site.

The Lincoln Airport is already running in a limited capacity with fewer flights. Currently, only two flights per day to and from Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Denver International Airport (DIA) and Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) are connecting to LNK. The Lincoln Airport Authority operates all air traffic control, safety, security, ground crew, and retail aspects of the airport in Nebraska’s capital city. Travelers can find the latest updates on flight schedules and information on parking, airport services and the LNK vs. OMA cost comparison tool at LincolnAirport.com. Individuals who need to attend to business or speak with any members of the airport administrative team should call (402) 458-2400 and leave a message with the appropriate party for a follow-up. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS NEWS Kinetic by Windstream Offers Free HD Meeting Service to Businesses for 90 Days

Residence Inn by Marriott Lincoln South Finishes Complete Remodel

To assist their customers during this challenging time, Kinetic Business is offering HD Meeting service free for 90 days if ordered by June 30.

They want to assist the many businesses considering remote work options for their employees as the situation with COVID-19 continues to evolve.

HD Meeting service is a voice and video collaboration tool that helps keep workers’ level of productivity high while maintaining social distancing. With the service, businesses can: • Engage with remote workers through one-on-one or group meetings via HD-quality video conferencing • Share one application or an entire screen with a single click for real-time collaboration • Easily work across all devices through audio and video conferencing from a mobile device, laptop, tablet, or desktop computer Customers will receive new HD Meeting licenses at no charge for the first 90 days of service, then the standard billing rate of $9.99 per month will begin. HD Meeting service may be cancelled at any time.

Kinetic Business by Windstream is committed to all their customers as strong as ever. They want to help keep your business productive and your employees safe so that everyone remains connected to the things that are important in life. To sign up for the free HD Meeting service offer, please call (866) 654-7014 or go online to windstream. com to learn more about Windstream’s services.

Residence Inn by Marriott in South Lincoln has recently undergone a complete remodel of their facility. Updates were made to the 91 guest suites to achieve a more modern look and feel. The breakfast nook, lobby, fitness center, and indoor pool and spa area were also given a facelift. The Marriott property even made improvements to the hotel’s landscape, including its beautiful outdoor patio with a firepit and outdoor grill.

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“We’ve been privileged to help many members in our community over the years and now we are brand new again for you!” said Ty Wright, director of sales.

The meeting space at the Residence Inn is impressive as well. The clean and crisp event room has new audio/video equipment and can fit up to 45 guests with theater seating. Snack and beverage items can be purchased through the hotel for meetings, and outside or catered food is permitted.

Residence Inn focuses on creating the best extended stay experience. Guests can enjoy roomy and comfortable suites with fully-equipped kitchens. The hotel serves complimentary full hot and cold breakfast items, and there is even a complimentary evening social held in the lobby Monday through Wednesday.

Other amenities include an on-site guest laundry facility, 24-hour suite shop, and free Wi-Fi. To learn more about Residence Inn by Marriott in South Lincoln or to book your next stay, visit www.residenceinn.com/lnkri or call (402) 423-1555.

#PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS HBAL Announces New Dates for Tour of Remodeled Homes, Spring Parade Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL) has postponed two of their upcoming public events. The postponed dates of the Tour of Remodeled Homes are June 13 and 14, and the Spring Parade of Homes is now slated for June 21–28. By postponing these events, HBAL hopes to have the homes open to the public.

The Tour of Remodeled Homes is a wonderful opportunity to get ideas and speak with remodelers about the potential your home has for a fresh new look. The online guidebook will be available in June and will allow you to preview the homes you want to visit in person. In addition, the Spring Parade of Homes has been a Mother’s Day tradition for over 25 years. Although in-person viewings are being pushed back until a later date, HBAL will have the online Parade Guidebook and virtual tours for Parade entries available in late May. Home Builders Association of Lincoln appreciates your understanding as they try to make the best decision for the health and wellbeing of their members and the public. For the most upto-date information, please visit www.HBAL.org or follow them on Facebook (@HBAofLincoln), Instagram, and Twitter (@hbalincoln).

First National Bank Announces Final Disbursement of Flood Recovery Grants The Rebuild the Heartland Community Fund, which was established in partnership between First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) and the Nebraska Community Foundation in response to the devastating floods that impacted the area in the spring and summer of 2019, has announced its final disbursement of flood recovery grants awarded to long-term recovery groups and organizations in Nebraska and western Iowa. In total, the fund raised enough to award $830,000 in grants to flood-impacted communities in Nebraska and western Iowa.

FNBO contributed $100,000 to establish the Rebuild the Heartland Community Fund and matched an additional $150,000 in donations from individuals, families and corporations across the U.S. One hundred percent of the donations have been directed to supporting the long-term recovery of flood-impacted communities that received FEMA Individual Assistance designations. As of March 31, 2020, all of the grants have been awarded from within three funding categories: • $630,000 in Housing Rebuilding Assistance and New Housing Construction grants were awarded to organizations that provide housing-related individual assistance support to repair and/or rebuild homes that were damaged.

• $175,000 in Flood Mitigation Assistance, where money from the fund will help offset the homeowner’s 25% contribution that is required in order to repair homes and/or mitigate against future flooding.

• $25,000 toward the establishment of the Midwest Housing Resource Network, a statewide disaster resiliency network that was developed in response to the 2019 flooding to assist communities.

For more than 160 years, First National Bank has maintained its commitment to helping to build strong communities. To learn more, visit www.fnbo.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Our nonprofits need you now more than ever.

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BUSINESS NEWS BNI® Launches New bni online™ Platform for Virtual Meetings

National Association of Women in Construction Posts Upcoming Event Schedule

In March, BNI ® rolled out a new bni online™ platform. Embracing their core value of Traditions + Innovation, this new resource combines the structure of faceto-face meetings with the technology and tools to connect virtually anywhere.

Together, BNI is helping one another navigate the challenges of the current business environment to ensure they emerge stronger than ever in the future.

The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Greater Omaha Chapter #116 holds its monthly meeting on the second Thursday of each month. Meeting times and activities are as follows:

ASSOCIAT I

ION CT

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CONSTR U

NAT IO

BNI ® is the world’s leading referral organization. Members generate word-of-mouth business for eac h other through structured, results-driven groups around the world. In 2019 alone, their members generated over $16 billion (USD) in revenue for member-businesses. To learn more about how BNI and bni online™ can help you and your business, visit bniheartland.com or contact the regional office at (402) 880-6311 / info@bniheartland.com.

IN EN

BNI Heartland members in the Omaha and Lincoln area are utilizing bni online™ to keep their referral network going during this time. Already, members have passed hundreds of referrals and closed hundreds of thousands of dollars of business through bni online™. Connect with BNI to find out how to build a stronger network, like thousands of members around the world.

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• May 14 at 3:30 p.m. — Construction Education Course at UNO Durham School • June 11 at TBD — Event TBD • July 9 at 7 p.m. — NAWIC Companies “Commercial Break” • August 13 at 4 p.m. —Tradeworks presentation • September 10 from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. — Volunteering with Habitat Builder’s Blitz • October 8 at 4 p.m. — Pumpkins & Power Tools • November 12 at 3 p.m. — Wellness/Work-Life Balance seminar • December 10 at 11:30 — Potluck lunch and gift-wrapping member’s donations for charity In addition, the NAWIC/CFMA Golf Outing has been slated for August 11, kicking off at 11 a.m. at The Club at Indian Creek. More information and registration will be posted on the website at www. nawicomaha.com, along with changes and updates as the coronavirus potentially impacts the schedule above. Be sure to check out the “You Can” video entry on Facebook (@nawicomaha) for some inspiration!

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BUSINESS NEWS Lincoln Children’s Museum Hosts Ribbon Cutting for New Kazoo’s U-Stop Café On Saturday, March 7, the Lincoln Children’s Museum and Lincoln Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the museum’s new Kazoo’s U-Stop Café. The café will have a variety of food items for purchase, including pizza, hotdogs, chicken nuggets, pretzel bites, coffee and juices, and more. The first 100 people to come celebrate the new café received a free cookie plus the opportunity to take part in a taste test that will help the museum decide what should be on the menu next.

Lincoln Children’s Museum has over 40 exhibits with three floors and 23,000 square feet of hands-on interactive exhibit space.

They want to empower children to create, discover, and learn with the power of play. The museum feels strongly that play is every child’s most important job because it’s how they learn to work with other people and stimulate their sense of creativity. Additional information can be found online at lincolnchildrensmuseum.org.

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Maly Marketing Owner Launches Online Coronavirus Group for Small Businesses Overcoming the Coronavirus Together is a small-business group star ted by Lincoln entrepreneur Steve Maly, owner of Maly Marketing, along with coinstigator, Eric Sullivan. The goal of the group is to share ideas in a safe and productive way.

Maly wanted to provide a place for business owners to make connections that will help them not just during these challenges but afterwards as well. Built around a weekly ZOOM call—every Friday at 11 a.m.—and Facebook group, the group allows small-business owners and entrepreneurs to share ideas, strategies, and insights to cope with the challenges presented by the coronavirus outbreak.

In addition to the support and ideas created within the local business community, the group brings in a featured speaker to their weekly ZOOM call in an effort to bring in valuable insights to help the group members succeed in a highly uncertain business environment.

According to Maly, “We know that the entrepreneurs of Lincoln and the surrounding areas offer a wealth of knowledge, not just about business, but about overcoming obstacles, working with bureaucracy, and solving problems in a creative way. What Eric and I wanted to do was help these successful people come together and help each other get through this challenge. We also wanted to bring in some voices that could help the group as a whole, that’s where Phil and Rhonda came in.”

He’s referring to Phil Towle, a performance coach to executives and rock stars alike, who spoke on breaking through barriers, and Rhonda Britten, a speaker and author who deals with how to overcome fear.

Both have recently addressed the Lincoln group on their weekly ZOOM call, and more speakers are being contacted for the upcoming weeks.

For local businesspeople who are interested in joining the group, which has already grown to more than 200 people, simply search Overcoming the Coronavirus Together on Facebook or go to zoom. us/j/293684113 at for the ZOOM call. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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wonderful times with friends & family!

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Your money has in your corner people Like Steph, who understands the challenges small businesses are facing and is ready to help you find the financing and resources you need to keep moving forward.

BUSINESS NEWS Advanced Medical Imaging Remains Open During Pandemic Recently named Lincoln’s Choice for medical clinic, locallyowned Advanced Medical Imaging (AMI) is prepared to continue to provide essential diagnostic imaging and procedures during the pandemic. While other healthcare facilities in the area bravely battle COVID-19 and serve those patients, AMI is staying open for other necessary health tests and treatments.

“Additional precautionary measures have been taken for the safety of our staff and patients within our building,” stated COO Georgia Blobaum. “We are also reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission with new virtual healthcare options that connect patients to our providers from the safety and comforts of their own homes.”

AMI has done what they can to ensure that the 100+ people in their workforce stay healthy and employed. Any staff that can perform their job duties off-site have been moved into home offices. Clinical staff and essential workers are following extra safety protocols to keep their patients and one another safe. Special supplemental benefits have been put in place for their employees, as a safety net during these uncertain times. To learn more about the services provided by Advanced Medical Imaging, visit www.AMImaging.com.

Lancaster County Election Commissioner Seeks Additional Election Day Board Workers Lancaster County Election Commissioner David Shively announced that he is looking for additional men and women to serve as board workers on Election Day. Every two years, Shively’s office needs over 1,100 Election Day board workers for over 190 precincts in Lancaster County.

Board workers must be Lancaster County registered voters and able to work on Election Day from 7 a.m. until shortly after the polls close at 8 p.m. Physical requirements include good eyesight, good hearing, and the ability to sit for an extended period of time.

Since the average age of Election Day Workers falls into the vulnerable age group for the COVID-19 virus, Shively is looking for healthy younger volunteers who do not fall into that category. Shively’s office appointed permanent Election Day board workers for the 2020-2021 election cycle earlier this year. His office currently needs interested people who could serve as a substitute to replace an appointed board worker if for some reason he or she is unable to serve on Election Day on May 12 or November 3.

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Shively indicated that Election Day board workers enjoy the same civil leave protection as those who serve on jury duty. “Employers must allow an employee the time off to serve as a poll worker without threat of or loss of personal or holiday pay, sick leave, overtime pay, or any other form of penalty for absence when serving as an election poll worker,” he said.

The Election Commission Office will provide board worker training classes prior to each state-wide election. Board workers receive minimum wage for the thirteen-plus hours they work on Election Day plus a stipend for attending a training session.

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Anyone interested in serving as an Election Day board worker should contact the Lancaster County Election Commission at (402) 441-7311.

An Election Board Worker application is available on the Election Commissioner’s Website at www.lancaster.ne.gov/347/Election-BoardWorker-Information. Shively asks that potential election workers either mail or email a scanned copy of the application to the following address: 601 N 46th St., Lincoln, NE 68503 or by email to kkraft@ lancaster.ne.gov instead of stopping by the election office in person. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS SCC Responds to COVID-19 by Donating Masks, Delivering Meals, Training Teachers Due to the recent lifestyle c hanges the COVID-19 pandemic requires, Southeast Community College (SCC) has implemented a variety of programs in order to support their students, staff, and community.

A number of volunteer seamstresses at SCC are playing their part during the outbreak by sewing and donating cloth face masks to high risk facilities. Close to a dozen members of the SCC community have created more than 100 masks and hats with plans to continue the effort. Masks primarily go towards long-term care facilities, critical access hospitals, and first responders.

SCC’s culinary/hospitality program’s professors and students have taken it upon themselves to prepare meals for high risk community members. Each week, they provide four meals to about 100 people. Meals such as lasagna, chili, beef stroganoff, and stir fry are easily microwavable and appeal to large audiences. They conduct daily health screens for everyone involved to ensure the safety of the food.

While SCC has been giving to the community, they’ve also made a commitment to their students and teachers as well. In order to provide the highest quality education, they assembled an Incident Response Team in order to create a smooth transition to online schoolwork. They provided laptops to nearly 1,000 professors along with ZOOM training.

For more information about Southeast Community College, go to southeast.edu.

NET Earns Sevareid Awards, Including Five First Place Honors NET, Nebraska’s PBS and NPR Stations, earned 13 awards with five first place honors in the 2020 Midwest Broadcast Journalists Association Sevareid Awards. The awards were announced April 4. The Midwest Journalism Conference in Minneapolis was canceled this year for safety reasons. The Sevareid Awards are open to all broadcast stations in a six-state region covering North and South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Nebraska. NET was honored for its work in radio and television.

For large market radio news, NET earned four first place awards for “Omaha Grapples with Its Ugly Past” for hard feature; “Making Art and Music from Found Objects” for audio; “The Irish-Punk Nebraska Fight Song Cheering Football Fans” for sports reporting; and a compilation

by NET News Director Dennis Kellogg for broadcast writing.

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Six awards of merit were also given: “I Carry My Grandmother’s Pain: Searching for MIA Service Members Decades Later” for individual multimedia storytelling news; Nebraska Flooding 2019 for series; “300 Individuals, 60 Majors, and Only One Cornhusker” for soft feature; “Powerlifting Program at Midland University Turning Heads” for sports reporting; “Speaking of Nebraska” for talk/public affairs; and “For Plant-Based Eaters, Veganizing Thanksgiving Is Easy as Pie” for team multimedia storytelling news.

For television, NET earned one first place award: “Watershed” for team multimedia storytelling news. Two awards of merit were also given: “Big Red Wrap-Up: Minnesota Recap” for sportscast/program; and “An Issue of Trust: News Not Fiction” for talk/public affairs.

NET is the statewide public media service dedicated to creating opportunities for Nebraskans to engage with critical issues, compelling stories, and quality entertainment. For more information, visit netNebraska.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS NEWS Tabitha Offers Online Community Support Groups, Open to Anyone Experiencing Loss Tabitha, Nebraska’s industryleading senior care provider, offers a variety of online support groups available in Lincoln and Lancaster County.

Grief and support groups are open to anyone in the community experiencing loss or needing support. Your loved one did not have to be with Tabitha. Registration and participation is free.

• “Growing Through Grief Loss of a Spouse,” a six-week online support group held every Thursday, April 16–May 21, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

• “Caregiver Online Support Group,” held every Thursday (began April 23), from 2 to 3 p.m.

• “Growing Through Grief Loss of a Parent,” a six-week online support group held every Thursday, April 30–June 4, from 12 to 1:30 p.m.

• “Growing Through Grief All Types of Loss” a six-week online support group held every Thursday, May 14–June 18, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Tabitha offers a range of services from results-driven rehabilitation, accessible at-home health care, innovative living communities, and compassionate hospice services. For questions and to register for the online support groups listed above, please call (402) 486-8546 or visit Tabitha.org/Hospice/Bereavement.

Top Spot Cleaning Rolls Out Chlorine Dioxide and SIMIX Disinfecting Package

Custom Fabrication & Millwright Services Facility Maintenance Installations of Production Systems

Hoping everyone stays healthy and safe!

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Top Spot Cleaning & Solutions Too has announced a new chlorine dioxide (CLO2) and SIMIX disinfecting package to businesses in Lincoln and surrounding areas for only $50. The package consists of three gallons’ worth of CLO2 which is the final decontaminating step. To start with, the package includes SIMIX, which is a high-Ph sanitizing product used to remove the top layers of biofilm. A surface with a high pH continues to fight microbes and viruses. This package can easily be used by a company’s staff in the reopening of business and for many months depending on facility size.

Top Spot Cleaning also provides fogging or gassing services with CLO2 to businesses. Fogging will disinfect high surfaces, and, with gassing, decontaminate the entire air handling system. This is for any business that feels their space may have been compromised during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Chlorine dioxide is a very versatile, effective decontaminating product.

Not only is it completely safe to use, it is odorless. It is used for a variety of antimicrobial uses, including the disinfection of drinking water. CLO2 helps destroy bacteria, viruses, and some types of parasites that can make people sick. Many companies use an ozone machine, however, 800 molecules of CLO2 fit into one ozone molecule. This is why CLO2 goes deeper into crevices and areas where ozone cannot. Plus, once a gassing treatment is complete, the space can be occupied instantly, whereas when using ozone, one or two days are required to build up the oxygen levels.

Top Spot Cleaning & Solutions Too’s goal is to help make reopening affordable and give businesses total confidence that they are providing their staff and customers a professionally clean environment. To learn more, visit topspotcleaning.com or call (402) 570-4307 to get a $50 disinfecting package for your business. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS LHRMA Provides Online COVID-19 Resources for Employers During this uncertain time, the Lincoln Human Resources Management Association (LHRMA) has gathered valuable COVID-19 related resources for employers. These resources include information on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act and the CARES Act. In addition, LHRMA has shared links to resources provided by their community partners, along with a list of resources at the national level. Individuals can also access links to job openings/careers and further unemployment resources through the LHRMA website. The organization wants to make sure they are continuing to offer recertification credit and resources to help guide employers in their HR needs during this time. The leadership asks that community members continue to watch out for LHRMA’S e-mail blasts and newsletters that contain online resources, courses, and webinars covering helpful information on the current situation. To learn more and access the resources, visit lincolnhr.org/covid-19-resources.

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Public Art Lincoln Requests Submissions for Lincoln Billboard Art Project Public Art Lincoln is requesting submissions of artwork for presentation on one of 10 billboards throughout the city. The Lincoln Billboard Art project, generously supported by The Sherwood Foundation, the Lincoln Community Foundation, and Lamar Advertising, aims to unite, support, inspire, and bring joy and healing to our community through public art while providing financial support to local artists during the pandemic.

Individual artists over the age of 18 living or working in Lincoln may submit one artwork to be considered for placement on a billboard. Selection preference will be given to artists whose primary sources of income have been immediately impacted by the pandemic and its economic repercussions.

Artists selected for billboard presentation will receive a $1,000 stipend. Artwork on billboards will be in place for four weeks.

All artwork submitted will be featured on the Public Art Lincoln website at lincolnpublicart.org.

AAA Offers Free Roadside Assistance to First Responders, Healthcare Workers in Lincoln In an effort to give back to those on the frontlines fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, AAA-The Auto Club Group is now offering free AAA Roadside Assistance to all first responders and healthcare workers in the Lincoln and Omaha metro areas.

Healthcare workers and first responders in Lincoln and Omaha can receive free AAA services, including towing, tire changes, fuel delivery, battery service, jumpstarts, and lockout service, through the end of the month, regardless of whether they are AAA members.

Eligible non-members can call (833) 222-3284 to receive these free AAA Roadside Assistance services 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

To prevent the spread of COVID-19 and support the health and well-being of AAA service providers and those utilizing their services, AAA has implemented the following extra safety measures for every service call.

• Service technicians will not shake hands and will abide by current social distancing guidelines.

• Passengers are not allowed to ride in service vehicles.

• Drivers are cleaning and disinfecting service vehicles and equipment after every service call.

For more information about this AAA program, visit AAA.com/hero. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Quality Ingredients MAKE A DIFFERENCE

48th & R | 58th & Old Cheney 14th & P | 28th & Cornhusker MAY 2020 Strictly Business

17

Commercial & Industrial Remodeling Tenant Improvements New Construction Services Additions Office Remodels 402-858-5155 | info@brownbrothers1.com 18

Strictly Business MAY 2020

#PrintProudDigitalSmart

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

by Chris McPike, President/Agent ComPro Insurance

#dothenextrightthing The ComPro team has adopted the hashtag #dothenextrightthing as our core value as we help our clients navigate COVID-19 and its impact on health insurance and health care.

Employers, those with individual health plans, and Medicare beneficiaries are concerned about keeping their benefits and the cost of testing and treatment for COVID-19. Across all plan types, the costs for medically necessary testing and treatment for COVID-19 will not be the responsibility of the individual. The copays, deductibles, and coinsurance benefits of your health insurance will not be applied.

Employer Groups—Businesses that have had to close or reduce their work force are also faced with how to manage their employee benefit plans, especially group health insurance benefits. The guidelines have been modified to help businesses and employees keep their health insurance. Most insurance companies have relaxed the full-time status requirement, furloughed employees can stay on the health insurance plan, and employers can continue to contribute to the cost of health insurance, regardless of employment status.

Employers that have received a loan from the SBA through the Paycheck Protection Program can use the money for payroll, benefits, and taxes on compensation. Up to 25% of the loan may be used for interest, rent, and utilities. To get the entire loan forgiven, two criteria must be met: 1) the full-time employee headcount cannot decline from 2019 to 2020; and 2) employers cannot cut wages.

Individuals—FAQs from self-employed, early retirees, those that work for employers not offering health insurance, and those who have lost their job and health insurance with no expectation of being recalled:

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Q: Am I eligible for Healthcare.gov if I lost my employer coverage?

A: Yes, in most situations.

Q: Do I need to adjust my income on healthcare.gov because of the stimulus payment I received?

A: No, the stimulus payment is NOT taxable income.

Q: Do I need to adjust my income on healthcare.gov due to a reduction in income?

A: Maybe. Are you eligible for unemployment?

Q: Do I have to report Unemployment Compensation as taxable income?

A: Yes. It may impact your income estimate on healthcare.gov based on the change in your total income for the year.

Medicare beneficiaries—The coverage of out-of-pocket expenses for COVID-19 testing and treatment is the big news for Medicare beneficiaries. Telehealth services have been expanded. Other rules have been relaxed concerning hospital services and skilled nursing.

• Bathing Assistance • Assistance with Walking • Shopping • Friendly Companionship • Dementia Care • Medication Reminders

• Dressing Assistance • Errands • Light Housekeeping • Flexible Hourly Care • Meal Preparation • Respite Care for Families

402.735.0999

www.visitingangels.com/lincoln

#PrintProudDigitalSmart

MAY 2020 Strictly Business

19

STAR CITY SIX

ELIZABETH

Elizabeth “Biz” Rose

BOB NOHAVEC PLUMBING

Together, we always come back strong.

LNK. Three letters that hold the pride and hope of a community. LNK is more than just a name to us—it’s home. It’s the city we’ve served for decades. It’s the place that always seems to come back stronger.

We’ll be right here, ready to help LNK keep climbing.

WeAreLNK.com

20

Strictly Business MAY 2020

Bob Nohavec Plumbing is a family-owned plumbing business that has proudly served the Lincoln and surrounding area for over 40 years. Elizabeth “Biz” Rose is the office manager for Bob Nohavec Plumbing.

Tell us a little about your business. - We have built a solid reputation for reliable and quality service. We do everything from new home construction and remodels, to all services for residential and commercial sites. Services range from water heaters, water softeners, and cabling drains, to faucet and toilet repair/replacements.

How did you get started in the business? - My fiance Matt Kudlacek is now the current owner of his father’s plumbing company. As a couple, we decided that my career path would be to work side by side with my partner in the role of office manager. We work so great together.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - We have a great team of employees. However, as the business grows, we are faced with a shortage of people wanting to go into the trade industry.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Helping to grow the business by offering great customer service and building relationships with our returning clients.

Tell us a little about your family. - Both born and raised in Nebraska, Matt and I have a 14-month-old baby named Kylie. She and her 12-year-old sister Jada both bring so much joy into our lives.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?

- Building a family with Matt, including becoming a mom, has been so rewarding.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Spending time with family and friends, going to the lake, gardening, and hanging out with our beautiful daughters.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - Literally, people don’t know my name is Elizabeth. My cousin nicknamed me Biz and it stuck.

Who inspires you? - People who go through the ups and downs of life but still see the good in everything.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it is about learning to dance in the rain.” - Vivian Greene If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Man In The Mirror”

by Michael Jackson.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Teleporting.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Connecting with people. I often connect with people on the phone but would prefer to connect in person.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Interior design.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Dimensions Foundation. They have a program called Nature Explore which is all about connecting children to nature.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz.

What is your favorite movie? - Man on Fire.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - MoMo Pizzeria & Ristorante.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 420-1552; nohavec@windstream.net; www.bobnohavecplumbing.net. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

MEGHAN

Rustic, Urban Charm IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN LINCOLN

Dr. Meghan Hungerford STAR CITY DENTAL

Star City Dental, located at 4525 S 86th St., is dedicated to saving their patients pain, time, and money while helping them achieve their perfect smile. Dr. Meghan Hungerford is one of the primary dental surgeons at Star City Dental.

Tell us a little about your business. - Star City Dental is a general dentist practice that sees patients of all ages from 2 to 102. We keep it simple for our clients with online booking as well as same day crowns. We pride ourselves in our treatment and care of all of our patients.

How did you get started in the business? - I am a fourth-generation dentist and originally had planned on going to medical school, but as I spent more time over the summers in my dad’s practice, I quickly realized this is what I wanted to do for my career.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband, Dr. Daniel Tylka, is an oral surgeon in town. We have two sons, Cole (4) and Owen (1), and a dog named Millie that keeps us very busy. We enjoy spending summers on the lake and time with our friends and family.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - My husband and I lived in Louisville, KY, for many years as he was doing his residency. We absolutely loved that area of the country, but as we spent more time there we just always had this feeling that we weren’t home and finally we decided to move back to Lincoln. We desperately wanted to get back to “The Good Life.”

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I like to golf when I get the time. True days off are rare, but I do enjoy golfing with my husband or friends. If I’m with my kids, we enjoy the Lincoln Children’s Zoo, going for trail rides, or anything outdoors.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I played soccer in college for the Huskers and, after my four years were up, I spent a semester abroad in Australia and New Zealand before starting dental school.

I graduated dental school from UNMC exactly 100 years after my great grandfather graduated from Nebraska Dental School.

Who inspires you? - Professionally, my staff and patients inspire me.

My staff inspires me to be a good leader and guide the team in a direction that will make us successful, and my patients inspire me to be the best dentist I can be in order to give them the best treatment.

Personally, my husband and kids inspire me to be a great mom/wife and somehow balance the craziness of life on a daily basis.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “A smile is a curved line that straightens everything out.”

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I’d like to run a bakery.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Every fall, our office sponsors a coat drive and donates the items to A Warmer Day. We also try to donate our time to the Lincoln Food Bank or other local organizations during the holiday season.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? Wildflower Hill by Kim Wilkins.

What is your favorite movie? - Grease.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 489-7806; lincoln@starcitydentalne.com; starcitydentalne.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

From event setup to a full-service bar, the Talon Room will meet all of your event needs to go above and beyond.

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

HOME AND MUCH MORE

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

402.480.6950 | www.thewaterford.net MAY 2020 Strictly Business

21

STAR CITY SIX

During the past 12 months….

1) have you become restless or irritable when trying to stop/cut down on gambling?

2) have you tried to keep family & friends from knowing how much you gamble?

3) did you have to borrow money from family or friends because of gambling?

MARK

Mark Heisterkamp

MORTON BUILDINGS

IF YOU ANSWERED YES TO THESE QUESTIONS, YOU HAVE A GAMBLING PROBLEM

Help is available—call today!

The Nebraska Gamblers Assistance Program (GAP) pays for confidential counseling with certified problem gambling providers to Nebraskans and their families who suffer a gambling addiction. A list of all GAPcertified counselors in Nebraska is located at www.problemgambling.nebraska.gov

Nebraska 24/7 Helpline—Call 1-833-238-6837 CALL NOW FOR HELP OR INFORMATION

CONFIDENTIAL. 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK.

Local Provider -

CHOICES

Treatment Center

127 S. 37th Street, Suite B, Lincoln, NE 68510

www.ChoicesTreatmentCenter.com

24/7 Helpline: 402.476.2300

This ad sponsored and paid by the Nebraska Gambling Assistance Program

*Operated as an Independent Contractor

Lincoln’s high-pressure hydro jetting specialists for 30 years.

Our Van-Pak unit uses high pressure cold water to scour, descale, and move debris down the line.

This versatile machine uses superior technology to keep lines f lowing. Our high-pressure water jetting ser vice can help you clear drain blockages by: • Penetrating and emulsif ying grease • Breaking up sludge and debris • Pulverizing roots • Cutting out hardened scale Greg Oreskovich Jetting Specialist • Flushing out the system

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402-489-4801 | www.rotorooter.com/lincoln/ 22

Strictly Business MAY 2020

Morton Buildings is the premier national postframe construction company, specializing in municipal, commercial, residential, equestrian, and hobby buildings. Mark Heisterkamp is a sales consultant for Morton Buildings.

Tell us a little about your business. - In the construction industry, you get what you pay for, and cheaper is rarely better. With Morton, you get the most for your money. We want your building to be one you are proud to show off and pass down to future generations. Morton Buildings is also a 100% employee-owned company.

How did you get started in the business? - I’ve been a sales consultant for Morton for a little over two years. I’ve had a prior background in sales consulting with a building supply manufacturer. I was a district manager for a farm and ranch equipment manufacturer and a government consultant for a database licensing company.

Before that, I worked for my family’s equipment dealerships.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The complexity of commercial buildings and homes take the most effort and planning. There is a shift towards including living quarters into our buildings. We are the front lines for the architects and engineers within our company, so it’s been a nice challenge to help design projects with our clients.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Before this position, I’ve been #1 in sales growth for multiple companies. Since I’ve been here, I’d say that it’s nice to complete any project—small or large. One that I can mention is the new showroom for Baker’s Candies in Greenwood. We built a corridor and new building store front that is now their main retail showroom. We blended into their old building which was from another builder and integrated vintage metallic steel inside to give it a retro antique look.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?

- When I was 23 and able to start up and successfully run a small business for 10 years (which was later sold). It was a power equipment retail store with six employees tied into a larger organization.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - In the summer, I like to take my boat out with friends. In the winter, I like to spend a day at the museum or go to the movies. I also like snow skiing.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I have 2,000 record albums. My collection started with my parent’s music and most of my five sibling’s influence. I particularly like going to live music and comedy shows.

Who inspires you? - I read Architectural Digest and try to gather ideas to blend innovative energy saving with classic design. Frank Lloyd Wright and some of the early 20th century architects and mid-century architects had a huge influence to inspire me.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Treat everyone fairly. Never burn a bridge.

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Take It to the Limit”

by The Eagles.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I belong to church and community groups, but I’m not as active as I used to be. Over the last five years, I’ve been helping people going through divorce or abusive relationships on more personal levels.

What is your favorite movie? - The Princess Bride or The End. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 429-9487; mark.heisterkamp@mortonbuildings.com; mortonbuildings.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

JENNIE

Jennie Scheel CFO SYSTEMS

CFO Systems partners with companies of all sizes to provide expertise in accounting and human resources. Jennie Scheel is a director at CFO Systems.

Tell us a little about your business. - From interim or part-time CFO to staff accountant, our CFO Systems team is ready to step in and assist at all levels to help our clients grow. In addition, the CFO Search and Staffing team has decades of industry expertise that provides them with the expertise to find a perfect match between candidates’ skillsets and career goals and clients’ strategic goals.

How did you get started in the business? - After working in both public and private accounting firms where I was provided with opportunities to build, grow, and lead financial, operational and human resource departments, I realized I had a passion for helping a wide range of clients simultaneously rather than just one at a time. CFO Systems provides me with the flexibility and opportunity to do all of that as well as use my background to help companies recruit and hire new team members that best fit their financial needs.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? Providing strategic financial recommendations to company leaders that enable them to make smart business decisions. To date, I’ve financially evaluated hundreds of business opportunities.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have been married to my husband Justin for 16 years. We have two children, Allie (10) and Carter (7), and one fur baby named Niko.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love spending time with my family! We enjoy playing sports together along with attending concerts and Husker games.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - At a very young age, I started dancing and, in high school, I was a member of a team that won three national championships. As of 2019, my husband and our friends now co-own a dance studio, LUXE Dance Academy, in Lincoln.

Who inspires you? - My father has always been a huge inspiration to me. He’s truly the definition of work hard, play hard. Working extremely early mornings or very late nights were always a part of his normal routine to ensure he never missed one of my events.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children…to leave the world a better place…to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Mind reading.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I’ve been a long-time supporter of the Lincoln Food Bank’s Backpack Program. I love their commitment to feeding families and children. I’m also a big supporter of the Barnabas Community which is led by members of our church. This is a faith-based community “where all are clothed and fed” and provided worship and life-skill learning opportunities.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon. I have been encouraging my team members to read the book, which has led to excellent discussions on the importance of a positive outlook at both work and home.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Lazlo’s Brewery & Grill—the Rainbow Chicken and the Pub Club are two of the best meals in town!

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? (402) 884-0066; jscheel@cfosystemsllc.com; www.cfosystemsllc.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Come visit us in our drive-thru Our full menu is available!

Temporary Hours: Mon-Sat, 6 AM - 7 PM, Sunday, 8 AM - 5 PM 5025 Lindberg Street, Lincoln, NE | (531) 500-4684 | @RnJLincoln

The Smartest Place To StaY Located in the heart of the Haymarket District, Graduate Lincoln is the ideal venue to host your next event. Book your space or room block today!

graduatehotels.com • 141 North 9th Street • 402 475 4011

MAY 2020 Strictly Business

23

STAR CITY SIX

KAYLA

Celebrating Our 40th Year!

Kayla Northup COMPRO

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

402.483.7575

www.pioneerprintinginc.com

Here to Serve Our Community As a community bank, we pride ourselves on being there when our customers need us.

Open a new personal or business checking or savings account online at our web site, westgate.bank.

Access your accounts from anywhere or any time with our free Mobile Banking app or Online Banking.

You can even apply for a mortgage with our Mobile Mortgagesm app, available at mobilemortgage.westgate.bank!

You can count on West Gate Bank to keep you and your business running!

Visit us online at westgate.bank to learn more.

westgate.bank | 402.434.3456

EQUAL HOUSING

LENDER

24

Strictly Business MAY 2020

Compensation Programs, Inc. (ComPro) is a health insurance brokerage firm that specializes in offering products to employer groups and individuals to best cover their health insurance needs. Kayla Northup is a senior account manager at ComPro. Tell us a little about your business. - ComPro serves small employers, Medicare beneficiaries, and the individual market. We offer medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and travel insurance. We take a personal approach with our clients. This means finding health insurance solutions that satisfy their unique priorities.

How did you get started in the business? - My parents own the company so I grew up working there during middle school, high school, and college. After graduating, I looked for a “real” job but found that I loved the company culture at ComPro and saw a need for more help.

I approached my parents about working there full time. They were initially hesitant, having worked in other family businesses and seeing the stress it can cause to relationships. I had to create a presentation on why they should hire me. It must have worked because I’ve been there over 16 years now.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - We had to totally re-think our business after the Affordable Care Act / Obamacare was implemented. All the rules changed and many brokers left the business or chose to focus solely on large employers.

This created an opportunity for us to really focus on the small employer market. It requires a lot of continual training, but I love helping employers design and implement benefit plans. Lincoln has a great community of business owners that place a high priority on taking good care of their employees.

Tell us a little about your family. - I’ve been married to Brian for 16 years. We have two kids, Breck (12) and Jaida (8). Brian also works at ComPro and we enjoy working together. We are also blessed to have a lot of extended family in town.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Sit on my deck and read a good book in the sun, which happens about once or twice a year! Most weekends are spent taking our kids to their different games, practices, and activities. I love watching them do what they love.

Who inspires you? - I am blessed to have many women in my life who are very successful both professionally and personally. They inspire me to keep striving to bring my best to each day at work, with my family, and for myself.

Which talent would you most like to have? - I’d love to be able to sing well. Music speaks to my soul, and I enjoy singing along to songs, but I don’t think others appreciate it so much!

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I enjoy preparing and serving meals at Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach and helping raise money during their Huskers Helping the Homeless campaign. They have a great mission, and I appreciate the opportunity to involve my kids.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - Finish

by Jon Acuff.

What is your favorite movie? - I love Christmas movies! Elf, The Santa Clause, Polar Express, The Christmas Story—there’s too many to name, but I love all of them!

What is your favorite TV show? - The Office. My son has become a fanatic, and he tells me about funny scenes or quotes daily.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? (408) 488-5100; knorthup@comproins.com; comproins.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

BRETT

Brett Bundy

LUXURY LANDSCAPE LLC Luxury Landscape LLC is a full-service landscape company, offering an array of services, from landscape design training and complete installation, to tedious maintenance such as pulling weeds, trim shrubbery, clean up, and mulch. Brett Bundy is the foreman at Luxury Landscape.

Tell us a little about your business. - We are a locally-owned landscaping company that takes pride and ownership in knowing that we did everything we could to maximize a property’s potential.

How did you get started in the business? - I started in the golf course maintenance industry, but residential landscaping is my preference.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Finding a place where I get that small business, family atmosphere as opposed to just being a number in a large operation.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Achieving my foreman position at Luxury Landscape!

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Tell us a little about your family. - I’m the oldest of three boys.

My younger brothers are Tanner and Garrett. We were born and raised in Ord, NE by our parents Wade and Diane.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Getting my degree in a field I really enjoy.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Golfing or fishing with my close friends.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I enjoy photography in my free time.

Who inspires you? - Definitely my parents. They are two of hardest working people I know, and I strive to be like them every day.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL

402-610-0523

DISCOVER the difference

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “To grow in life, be willing to suffer.” - David Goggins If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Diligent.

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Don’t Worry Be Happy” by Bob Marley.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Time travel.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - My cooking skills.

Which talent would you most like to have? - Singing! All my friends could attest to the amount that I sing even though I have a terrible voice.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Sports photographer.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? The Impossible First: From Fire to Ice—Crossing Antarctica Alone by Colin O’Brady.

What is your favorite movie? - Step Brothers.

What is your favorite TV show? - The Netflix series Mindhunter.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Joe Rogan because of all the people he has interviewed.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 640-6034 / (402) 430-9430; luxurylandscape.ne@ gmail.com; www.luxurylandscape-llc.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

DISCOVER the difference at Gramercy Hill.

Offering both Independent Living and Assisted Living, featuring several spacious floor plans and dedicated staff that is available 24 hours a day. Our Community invites residents to enjoy comfort and relaxation while taking advantage of exceptional services.

We offer residents a vibrant lifestyle that encourages health and independence through innovative recreational, educational, health and wellness programs. Gramercy Hill is also pet friendly!

Call today or visit us online for more information.

6800 A Street | Lincoln, NE 68510 402-483-1010 | gramercyhill.com MAY 2020 Strictly Business

25

A Full-Service Commercial Real Estate Appraisal Firm

PERSONNEL NEWS Toastmasters District 24 Elects New Leaders

Now offering property tax and litigation support appraisal services.

Thomas W. Kubert Owner

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

Each Spring Toastmasters Districts around the world hold their annual council meetings to elect District leaders for the upcoming Toastmasters year (July 1–June 30). Normally held in person, this year’s elections were conducted differently but no less successfully. Using website platforms “Free Toast Host,” YouTube, and ZOOM, District 24 posted candidate statements, conducted online candidate interviews, and held an online meeting at which candidates gave their final statements prior to digital ballots being cast.

Mark Fegan

Results were tallied automatically, and winners were announced within minutes of the votes being cast. The elected leadership team for District 24 include: Mark Fegan, district director; Cindy Jenkins, program quality director; Keith Jones, club growth director; and Sandy Yager, Pam Hogan, Claire Titus, and Daniel Lyle, division directors.

REFRESHED MIND • ELEVATED MOOD

We’re here for you.

Now offering curbside pick-up, free local delivery, and free shipping!

The district director oversees operations of Toastmasters and supports clubs, members, and other leaders across the entire district.

The program quality director manages the leadership and educational program, including speech contests. In addition, she will help members identify and achieve their goals. The club growth director and his team will build clubs by working with corporations looking to enhance their training programs and individuals within communities wanting to improve their communication and leadership skills.

Division directors provide support to a subset of clubs and other leaders within the district.

Cindy Jenkins

Keith Jones

Toastmasters International is a worldwide nonprofit educational organization that empowers individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. Lincoln, Omaha, and surrounding areas are served by Toastmasters District 24, grouping 70 Toastmasters clubs and 1,100 members from Kearney, NE, to Council Bluffs, IA. Learn more by visiting d24tm.org or go to the Facebook page (@D24TM).

Three Lincoln Locations to Serve You! 2662 Cornhusker Hwy, Ste 7C | Lincoln, NE 233 North 48th Street, Ste I | Lincoln, NE 1600 Normandy Court, Ste 102 | Lincoln, NE (402) 817-2697 | cbdoflincoln.com

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Strictly Business MAY 2020

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

PERSONNEL NEWS Berry Law Welcomes Patrick Smith Berry Law recently welcomed Patrick Smith to their team. Patrick is a veterans advocate at the firm, helping veterans in their fight for disability benefits. As a Veteran who served as a Fleet Marine Force Corpsman in the Navy, Patrick understands the struggle fellow veterans have with the VA. He can represent veterans at every stage of the VA appeals process, including appeals at the Regional Office, the Board of Veterans Appeals, and the Court of Appeals for Veterans’ Claims.

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Berry Law’s Veterans Disability practice has represented veterans in all 50 states and is part of the firm’s core commitment to our nation’s servicemembers. The firm is accredited by the VA to represent veterans seeking compensation, and they have successfully obtained compensation for thousands of veterans. Berry Law handles disability benefits claims related to combat wounds, post traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, vehicle accidents, chemical exposure, infectious illness, and a host of other service-related medical problems.

To learn more about Berry Law, visit berrylawfirm.com or call (402) 466-8444.

Access Family Medicine Announces the Addition of Krystal Jackson PA-C Krystal Jackson PA-C has joined Dr. Todd Johnson at Access Family Medicine. Krystal brings with her 15 years of exceptional experience in primary care. She began her career in rural Kansas with two doctors and one other PA. Nearly eight years and two children later, Krystal and her husband felt a strong desire to get back home to Nebraska. Most recently, Krystal worked in a primary care clinic in Crete.

She spent eight years there sharpening her clinical skills.

Born and raised in rural Nebraska, Krystal developed an unending love for small, meaningful relationships. She spent many hours in the local nursing home during high school and college working as a nurses’ aide. Krystal graduated from Nebraska Wesleyan University in 2002 with a bachelor’s degree in biology. In 2004, she completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

Krystal has studied the Direct Primary Care (DPC) model and believes in the core values and mission of Access Family Medicine.

Krystal states, “It is a privilege to care for people. There is no greater honor and responsibility than for people to trust you with their health. I recognize and value that privilege, trust, and that relationship.”

Access Family Medicine at 8101 O St. is Nebraska’s first DPC, membership based clinic. Their physicians believe that excellent health care can only be achieved with adequate one-on-one interaction. The addition of a new provider means that the clinic is now accepting new patients. Learn more online at accessfamilymedicine.com or call (402) 858-1510. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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PERSONNEL NEWS Kevin Jarosz Named Vice President of Black Hills Corporation Nebraska Operations Black Hills Corporation (NYSE: BKH) announces the appointment of Kevin Jarosz to vice president of operations for Black Hills Energy in Nebraska. In his new role, Jarosz is responsible for all aspects of managing operations for Black Hills Energy in Nebraska. Black Hills Energy serves 315,000 customers in 319 Nebraska communities including Lincoln, Papillion, Norfolk, Columbus, Kearney, Holdrege, Lexington, Ogallala, McCook, Sidney, Scottsbluff, Alliance, and Chadron.

“Kevin’s new role will leverage his operational experience, familiarity with state, industry knowledge and customer focus to live our mission of improving life with energy in the communities we serve, and ensure we are ready to provide our Nebraska customers with the valued service they’ve come to expect from Black Hills Energy,” said Todd Jacobs, vice president of natural gas utilities, Black Hills Corp.

Jarosz, who will be based in Lincoln, had been serving as interim vice president and previously served at the director of operations for Nebraska and brings 32 years of experience working in various roles in the company in Nebraska and Iowa. Jarosz replaces previous vice president, Jeff Sylvester, who left the company in December to pursue another opportunity in his home state.

Black Hills Corporation is a customer focused, growth-oriented utility company with a tradition of exemplary service and a vision to be the energy partner of choice. Learn more online at www.blackhillscorp.com.

West Gate Bank Welcomes Lindsey Kirkendall The West Gate Bank® Board of Directors is pleased to welcome Lindsey Kirkendall as an assistant vice president, business banking solutions officer. A native of Howells, NE, Kirkendall graduated from Doane University with a bachelor’s degree in business management. She brings 15 years of banking experience to her role with the Business Banking Solutions team.

As a business banking solutions officer, Kirkendall will customize product solutions for customers to enhance business banking portfolios and create additional benefits for businesses, as well as developing and maintaining business account relationships.

She is an active member of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, Lincoln Independent Business Association (LIBA), East Lincoln Business Association (ELBA), RISE Lincoln, Lincoln Young Professionals Group (YPG), and The Center Sphere Network. Lindsey is active in the bank’s community outreach activities, a volunteer teacher for Junior Achievement, an event committee member for Habitat for Humanity, as well as a supporter and volunteer at numerous nonprofits across Lincoln. Lindsey Kirkendall is located at West Gate Bank Center at 6003 Old Cheney Rd. and can be reached at (402) 434-7810 or lkirkendall@westgate.bank.

West Gate Bank® is a family-owned community bank with 10 locations in Lincoln and Omaha. West Gate Bank is large enough to serve all your personal or commercial banking needs yet small enough to provide the outstanding personal service that only a community bank can deliver. Visit westgate.bank for more information.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Professional Realty Group of Woods Bros Realty Adds Jerry Welton to Team Professional Realty Group (PRG) of Woods Bros Realty is excited to announce the recent addition of Jerry Welton to the team. Jerry is a native of Iowa but has lived in the Lincoln/Omaha area for over 25 years. In his career, he has worked for companies like Mutual of Omaha and Lincoln Benefit Life, establishing his love for helping people.

After 20 years of being a developer, one of his clients asked if he would join their team and help IT people find better opportunities.

Jerry’s passion for working with families and individuals as they achieve their dreams is what made real estate such a natural fit. He is looking forward to being a part of people’s journeys as they search for a place to call home. When not working, Jerry enjoys spending time with his wife and children, playing basketball, or attending his children’s’ activities.

Jerry joins PRG team leads and founders, Ben and Andrea Bleicher, along with Office Manager/Executive Assistant Kim Erickson, and REALTORs® Zach Brandl and Mark Salak. The group specializes in residential, commercial, development, and leasing.

To learn more about Professional Realty Group of Woods Bros Realty, visit www.PRG-NE.com. Jerry can be contacted at (402) 730-7381 / jerry.welton@woodsbros.com.

Lincoln Airport Authority Executive Director David Haring Earns AAE Distinction

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David Haring, executive director of the Lincoln Airport Authority, has been awarded the distinction of Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) by the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE).

To qualify for his distinction, Haring had to successfully complete three phases of the accreditation process: 1. Pass a 180-item, multiple-choice examination 2. Fulfill a writing requirement 3. Demonstrate, in the final interview by a panel of AAEs, his knowledge of airport management, business administration, and general transportation economics His achievement attests to his ability to meet the AAAE’s stringent requirements and his experience in managing a public airport. By fulfilling all the requirements leading to the title of Accredited Airport Executive, Haring joins a select group of individuals who have earned the designation in the six-plus decades of the accreditation program’s existence. At present, fewer than 10% of AAAE’s members throughout the country are active accredited airport executives. AAAE (aaae. org) is the world’s largest professional organization representing the men and women who work at public-use commercial and general aviation airports.

The Lincoln Airport Authority is the political entity responsible for overseeing the planning, development, operation, and maintenance of the Lincoln Airport. Governed by an elected, five-member Board of Directors, the Lincoln Airport Authority strives to position the Lincoln Airport as the premier option for commercial, general and military aeronautical users. For more information, visit LincolnAirport.com, follow on Twitter (@LNKairport), or check out Lincoln Airport on Facebook (@LincolnAirport). #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Kingery Construction Co. has built a wide variety of projects for educational, medical and religious facilities as well as commercial, governmental, industrial and private owners. We are honored to have constructed several iconic landmarks and developed relationships with owners and architects that span decades.

Kingery Construction Co. has the expertise to manage any project.

We have successfully completed projects of Design/Bid/Build, Design/ Build, Construction Manager at Risk and Construction Manager as Agent methods.

Below are a few of our recent projects.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Abby Lehr Named Administrator of Sumner McGill Restoration Thanks Donnie Newquist Place Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation for 25 Years, Implements Service Awards Abby Lehr has been announced as the new administrator of Sumner Place Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation. Abby joined the Sumner Place family in 2015 as the people development coordinator. She has done an exceptional job selecting and developing team members who radiate warmth, compassion, and respect in all that they do.

At Sumner Place, the staff strives to provide dignity in life and personalized care while promoting relationships of trust, confidence, and loyalty to all of those they serve. Abby’s enthusiasm and dedication to Sumner Place is contagious. Abby has her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Buena Vista University. During her undergrad, she played volleyball and was the president of Psi Chi (National Honor Society for Psychology Majors) and president of SASW (Students Association of Social Workers).

Prior to working at Sumner Place, Abby worked at Hemphill Search Group, which recruited for accounting and finance roles. She grew up in Elk Point, SD, but is dedicated to being a true Husker fan! Her hobbies include spending time with her husband Josh and their daughter Mila.

She enjoys being an active member of Sheridan Lutheran Church, golfing, and listening to podcasts.

Sumner Place Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation offers long-term care, rehabilitation, and memory support. They are nestled in the near south neighborhood in Lincoln and are a proud member of Vetter Senior Living.

To learn more, visit www.sumnerplacecare.com or call (402) 475-6791.

McGill Restoration is celebrating its 35th year of service and thanking Donnie Newquist for his continuing exemplary service for 25 of these years. Donnie is a valued member of the McGill team, and his contributions are vital to the success of the Restoration team meeting their mission, vision, and values. To honor the loyalty of dedicated employees such as Donnie, McGill is implementing a new continuous years of service award system to carry out their “Loyalty” core value.

Employees will be awarded for reaching their 1-year, 5-year, 10-year, 20-year, 25-year, 30-year, 40-year, and 50-year milestones. Donnie will receive all five awards that he would have earned had the award system been in place previously, dating back to his hire date. McGill Restoration will be recognizing 28 employees who have reached between 5 and 25 years of continuous service. In all, over $150,000 in grandfathered awards will be given out in 2020!

McGill Restoration is very committed to investing in the development and training of their employees. They work hard to keep their employees busy year-round rather than being a seasonal construction company. If you are interested in starting a career in the construction industry at a company that offers a competitive benefit and compensation package, please apply on the McGill Restoration website at www.mcgillrestoration.com or contact the Lincoln office at (402) 558-7989.

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

402-437-2700 www.southeast.edu/continuing 30

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PERSONNEL NEWS Strictly Business Editor and Operations Director Hannah Hundley Celebrates 2 Years On February 11, Strictly Business Editor and Director of Operations Hannah Hundley celebrated her two-year work anniversary with the magazine. Hannah’s role has taken on many forms since she first joined the team as executive assistant in 2018. Coming from a background in hospitality, tourism, and community planning, Hannah was excited to work for an organization dedicated to promoting local businesses. She eventually became the full-time editor when the position opened up. During this time, she also took on a minor sales role, allowing her to meet with potential clients and attend more networking events in Lincoln and Omaha. Recently, Hannah transitioned into more of an operational role so that she could take back on the event planning efforts she enjoys while still overseeing editorial aspects of the magazine. She appreciates the opportunities for professional growth that come with working for a small, family-owned business and loves the relationships she’s been able to form through her work at the publication.

Strictly Business is a reliable news sources and effective advertising tool, publishing original content in print and online. To learn more, visit strictly-business.com. To contact Hannah, call the office at (402) 466-3330 or email editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com.

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Luxury Landscape Adds Brett Bundy and Ethan Anderson to Their Crew Recently, Luxury Landscape LLC added Brett Bundy and Ethan Anderson to their landscaping family in order to craft even more gorgeous landscapes!

To oversee crews and work hands-on in the field, Luxury Landscape hired Brett Bundy as foreman. Brett attended Northeast Community College to earn degrees in horticulture and golf course operations and grounds management. Brett has plenty of leadership experience from his previous role of assistant superintendent at a golf Brett Bundy lounge in Mullen, NE. Originally from Ord, Brett enjoys creating beautiful landscapes that exceed clients’ expectations. He uses his creative side to craft and direct innovative projects that best utilize the space, big or small. Off the clock, Brett enjoys fishing, hunting, golfing, and photography.

Ethan Anderson also joined the Luxury Landscape team as an eager landscaper.

Ethan uplifts morale with humor and a strong work ethic. He’s the heavy lifter of the crew, taking on retaining wall and bolder duty.

Ethan Anderson Outside of work, he enjoys building PCs and collecting baseball caps.

Luxury Landscape LLC was born from a passion for creating unique landscapes that set lawns apart from neighbors. From beautifying planters to a complete landscape makeover, Luxury Landscape provides services at every step of the way. For more information, visit luxurylandscape-llc.com or schedule an appointment by calling (402) 430-9430 / (402) 640-6034. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BNI Announces Doug Florer as Regional Member of the Year BNI Heartland is pleased to announce Doug Florer was recently named Regional Member of the Year at the Lincoln Area BNI Awards and Recognition Event in February. This annual event, which highlights member and chapter achievements, included over 70 small business owners and professionals dedicated to growing their businesses and increasing the economic activity in the Lincoln area.

Doug Florer is a mortgage lender at Exchange Bank and has been an active BNI member since 2014. Florer is a member of the Profit Powerhouse Chapter in Lincoln and currently serves as the chapter’s president. In 2019, he led his chapter with 98% attendance, completed over 200 one-to-ones, which resulted in over 100 referrals passed, and was thanked for business generated of over $40,000 by his chapter members.

Vince Vigneri, BNI Heartland’s executive director, said, “Doug exemplified the core values of BNI®, with Givers Gain® being the foundation of his success.”

This award is presented each year to one member for their commitment to BNI, dedication to their fellow members and BNI’s core values, and productivity within the chapter, and, ultimately, the region!

BNI® is the world’s leading referral organization. Members generate word-of-mouth business for each other through structured, results-driven groups around the world. In 2019 alone, their members generated over $16 billion (USD) in revenue for member-businesses. To learn more, visit bniheartland.com or contact (402) 880-6311 / info@ bniheartland.com.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Friendship Home Offers Domestic Violence Crisis Line and Support During Pandemic

Lincoln COVID-19 Response Fund Established to Help Those Impacted by Coronavirus

Friendship Home recently reminded the public of the free services they offer through their 24/7 crisis line, particularly for those experiencing domestic violence. In this time of social distancing, when most of us are finding comfort and safety at home, there are those that don’t find their homes to be safe.

Unfortunately, domestic violence doesn’t stop for COVID-19 and may even escalate due to stressful circumstances in the world right now. Friendship Home’s crisis line is available 24/7, and their shelter doors are remaining open as they recognize their services are needed now more than ever.

Hosted by the Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF), the Lincoln COVID-19 Response Fund has been established by the City of Lincoln, businesses, and philanthropic partners to rapidly deploy flexible resources to nonprofits in Lincoln that are working with communities disproportionately affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

The fund will award operating grants on a rolling basis to nonprofits that support vulnerable populations impacted by the pandemic. Individual donors, institutions, companies, and other funders are encouraged to contribute to the Fund online.

Strategic partners have donated a combined $500,000 to support the fund and provide a proportional match to donations contributed by the community.

A coalition of partners, including the City of Lincoln, Lincoln Community Foundation, United Way of Lincoln and Lancaster County, Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development, Community Health Endowment, and other philanthropic and business partners, will work collaboratively to ensure the fund has maximum reach and effectiveness.

The Lincoln COVID-19 Response Fund will regrant 100% of the donations received. There are no fees assessed by the Lincoln Community Foundation.

More information on the Lincoln COVID-19 Response Fund can be found at LCF.org or by calling the LCF office at (402) 474-2345.

During this challenging time, Friendship Home wants to assure those in Lincoln and Lancaster County that they are continuing to provide crisis services, emergency shelter, and transitional housing to victims of domestic violence as well as their children.

The Friendship Home exists to support, shelter, and advocate for victims of domestic violence and their children. They provide crisis intervention services, case management, and emotional support to victims. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, Friendship Home’s crisis line is available 24 hours a day by calling (402) 437-9302. Learn more online at friendshiphome.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Make-A-Wish Nebraska Postpones All Wish Travel and Events to Ensure Safety of Kids Make-A-Wish® Nebraska has made the difficult decision to postpone all wish travel until further notice, as well as cancelling wish kid participation in events related to Make-A-Wish Nebraska that involve large gatherings. Make-A-Wish estimates more than 20 Nebraska wishes could be delayed by COVID-19 related postponements in March, April, and May with 10–15 more each month as restrictions continue.

Make-A-Wish is committed to rescheduling every postponed wish but needs the community’s help now more than ever. To help make all future wishes come true, please consider donating to www.nebraska. wish.org/donate.

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Make-A-Wish creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. They are on a quest to bring every eligible child’s wish to life, because a wish is an integral part of a child’s treatment journey.

Research shows children who have wishes granted can build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight a critical illness.

Since inception, Make-A-Wish® Nebraska has granted more than 2,800 wishes across the state. For more information, visit www. nebraska.wish.org or call (402) 475-9474.

TeamMates Mentoring of Lincoln Adapts to School Closure Typically, Lincoln TeamMates mentors and students play cards in the school library or shoot hoops in the gymnasium. These days, TeamMates matches are connecting electronically, amid school closures that put an early halt to their in-person weekly meetings. Per program guidelines, visits between TeamMates matches must take place at the student’s school, so when schools closed, mentoring was also put on hold. Knowing the importance of these friendships and the consistency they bring to students’ lives, the Lincoln chapter staff immediately met to strategize how to facilitate mentoring despite matches’ inability to meet face to face. They came up with an email exchange, in which staff work as a go-between in order to follow TeamMates’ safe communication policies and utilize the laptops provided to students by their schools.

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“The adaptability mentors and students are showing is proof of our matches’ dedication to one another. In these strange times, being able to connect with someone who’s been a constant in your life is really important for kids,” said Audrey Watson, a match support specialist with Lincoln TeamMates.

Working remotely, TeamMates is also maintaining regular communication with mentors, students, and their parents. Staff are working with senior students to ensure their readiness to move onto post-secondary education this fall, and many qualifying graduating seniors will receive TeamMates scholarships.

“We’re adjusting as needed and continuing to support our students and mentors unconditionally,” said Lincoln TeamMates Coordinator Jim Bennett.

TeamMates Mentoring of Lincoln makes a meaningful impact in the local community and beyond by inspiring youth to reach their full potential through mentoring. Please visit lincolnteammates.org or call (402) 436-1990 for more information. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS Wear Yellow Nebraska’s Ride, Fun Run & Walk Still on for August 15

Heartland Cancer Foundation Continues Monthly Giving Campaign for Cancer Patients

Wear Yellow Nebraska will still be hosting their 17th annual Wear Yellow Ride, Fun Run & Walk on Saturday, August 15 (previously slated for May 9), at the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum in Ashland.

Because Heartland Cancer Foundation understands that cancer remains a growing threat even through the pandemic, they are rallying support for a continued fight to help those affected by cancer. They emphasize that it is now more important than ever to remember those who need financial assistance for expenses while undergoing cancer treatments, especially in these uncertain times when many may have lost their jobs or have seen a reduction in their paychecks.

Heartland Cancer invites the community to participate in their monthly giving campaign to continue supporting those in need. Donations start at $10/month. To sign up for the monthly donation program, visit heartlandcancerfoundation.org/donate.html.

If you know of someone who needs financial assistance, help is available. They can apply online now at heartlandcancerfoundation. org/online-application.html. The services that Heartland Cancer Foundation provides to their cancer patients assist with the following: • Housing • Car payments • Gas assistance • Other misc. medical expenses To learn more about Heartland Cancer Foundation, apply for assistance, make a donation, or join their volunteer guild, visit their website at heartlandcancerfoundation.org. You can also contact them via phone at (402) 261-9974.

Registration is available online until midnight on August 10 and the t-shirt cutoff is August 1 at 5 p.m. Each registration provides two rides to a fellow Nebraskan in the fight against cancer who does not have adequate transportation to and from their treatments. Additionally, there will be a variety of events taking place after the event. Riders and walkers/runners are encouraged to stick around after the race for breakfast by the Pancake Man, Wear Yellow’s Legendary Raffle, and dozens of door prizes. Each paid registration will also be given free access to the museum following the race. Non-participants can also enjoy breakfast for $5.

There will be a variety of routes for participants to take. For those craving roads, there will be 25-, 35-, 45-, and 55-mile options. For those who like less formal roads, there will be a 27-mile beginners gravel option as well as a 56-mile experienced gravel riders route.

Those on two legs can participate in the approximate 5K run and walk through beautiful Mahoney State Park.

If you would like to participate in Wear Yellow Nebraska’s Wear Yellow Ride, Fun Run & Walk on August 15, register online at www. supportwyn.org/17.

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Strictly Business MAY 2020

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NONPROFIT NEWS Junior Achievement Presents Jackpot Raffle Fundraiser, Drawing to Take Place June 3 Junior Achievement of Lincoln is hosting a Jackpot raffle fundraiser to support their mission of inspiring and preparing young people to succeed in a global economy.

If you’re looking for a way to give back to the community in more ways than one and you value supporting Lincoln’s restaurants, businesses, retail shops, and more, look no further than the Junior Achievement Jackpot! This unique raffle will feature two winners who will each receive $3,500 in gift cards to local establishments. Tickets are $20 each. Ticket sales end at noon on June 3 and the drawing will also take place on June 3. To see the live drawing, follow Junior Achievement of Lincoln on Facebook (@jaofLincoln). All proceeds from the JA Jackpot will support JA’s mission of empowering young people to own their economic success.

Junior Achievement has 106 local JA Areas across the nation, and together they are the nation’s largest organization dedicated to giving young people the knowledge and skills they need to own their economic success, plan for their futures, and make smart academic and economic choices. JA’s programs—in the core content areas of work readiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy—ignite the spark in young people to experience and realize the opportunities and realities of work and life in the 21st century.

To purchase tickets and enter the Jackpot raffle, visit the Junior Achievement of Lincoln website at lincoln.ja.org/events/ja-jackpot.

Contact Kim Pramberg at kpramberg@jalincoln.org with questions.

CBMC Lincoln Takes a Virtual Approach to Hosting Weekly and Monthly Activities The COVID-19 crisis hasn’t slowed down CBMC Lincoln’s efforts; it has just changed the way they conduct their activities. For example, CBMC peer advisory groups, discussion groups, and one-to-one meetings have continued to meet by video conference. One of the new activities offered includes free “Connecting Point” discussion groups conducted over ZOOM. Future events are in the planning stages, including a Peer Advisory Group Lunch & Learn on June 2 at the CBMC office and the 19th Annual CBMC Golf Classic on July 13 at Wilderness Ridge Golf Course. In addition, CBMC USA is making free online events and webinars available nationally.

During this time of upheaval and confusion from the COVID-19 crisis, it’s easy to become uncertain and fearful of the future. People can easily get swept up into constant worry about the impact on their families, friends and themselves, their job security, plus a host of other concerns.

CBMC Lincoln maintains their focus to help men in the marketplace not only grapple with these uncertain times but points them to the support and answers that God can provide. According to CBMC, one principle from the Bible especially applicable to these times is “trusting God with all your heart and not leaning on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) Originating in 1930 in Chicago during the Great Depression, CBMC is a global ministry to men in the marketplace. They encourage men toward spiritual development, personal integrity, principled leadership, and a desire to impact others. All public events are subject to the COVID-19 status at the time. For information about CBMC Lincoln or these activities and events, connect with them on Facebook (@cbmclincolnne), visit Lincoln. cbmc.com, or call (402) 540-1093. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Nonprofit Association of the Midlands Pulse Poll Shows Impact of COVID-19 on Nonprofits The Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) recently completed a poll of nonprofit leaders to better understand the impact of COVID-19 on the nonprofit community. Key findings of the Nonprofit Pulse Poll show that a majority of nonprofits anticipate significant operational impact during a time in which demand for their services is heightened.

NAM’s poll, conducted between March 16 and March 19, collected responses from more than 500 nonprofit leaders who were asked to estimate the current and anticipated level of impact COVID-19 is having on nonprofit services, programs, and operations. The poll found that nonprofits are stepping up without hesitation to serve their communities to protect public health and to support their own employees. However, COVID-19 has made the mission of nonprofits more challenging due to the following economic, health, and social fallout from the need to contain the virus: • 56% of responding nonprofits are anticipating significant impact to their programs and sustainability, while 39% are anticipating moderate impact.

• While demand for nonprofit services is increasing, nonprofits may be restricted in their ability to respond due to the immediate need of supplies, staffing, volunteers, and resources from government, philanthropic, and business entities.

• More than 90% of nonprofits have canceled or postponed events.

With very limited reserves, many nonprofits rely on earned income and fundraising events to sustain their missions. While fewer programs may slow the spread of COVID-19, it also means that nonprofits will be hindered in serving their clients.

One in eleven Nebraskans works for a nonprofit, and several of these organizations serve individuals hit hardest by job loss as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. NAM strengthens the collective voice, leadership, and capacity of nonprofit organizations enriching the quality of community life throughout Nebraska and Western Iowa. To achieve this mission for their growing base of nonprofit organizations, NAM shares nonprofit questions, challenges, and ideas with state government, foundations, and corporate decision-makers. They recommend nonprofits share their stories and contact local elected officials to insist they do more to support the ability of charitable nonprofits to serve and survive the pandemic and its economic effects.

With over 13,000 nonprofits, Nebraska has more nonprofits per 1,000 people than the United States overall, the majority of which operate with less than $250,000 in net assets. For more information on the financial impact of the nonprofit sector on the state economy, download NAM’s 2019 Nonprofit Economic Impact Report at www.nonprofitam.org/ EconomicImpactReport.

For more information on NAM, visit www.nonprofitam.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS HopeSpoke Adopts Telehealth Platform to Meet Critical Mental Health Needs

Lincoln Community Foundation to Host Annual Give to Lincoln Day May 28

HopeSpoke recently adopted telehealth services in order to continue inspiring healthy futures for children and families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health services. HopeSpoke continues to make program adaptations to meet current community needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Outpatient services, the Extended Day Treatment Program, and the Therapeutic Group Home are all using telehealth services in some capacity at this time.

Lincoln’s annual giving day is scheduled for May 28. Although the current world situation is ever-changing, as an online day of giving, the event will not be impacted.

All of HopeSpoke’s outpatient therapists, including those that normally work within the school setting, are able to provide HIPPA compliant telehealth services utilizing ZOOM on phones, tablets, and computers during this difficult time with a rise in job losses, children no longer being in school, worries about the pandemic and health, questions about how to pay bills, and more.

As nonprofits are in need of support now more than ever, the community is encouraged to come together on May 28 to support Lincoln’s nonprofit organizations and improve lives. Every donation made during May 1 to May 28 will help local charities even more because they will also receive a proportional share of the $500,000 challenge match fund. Give to Lincoln Day is the community’s chance to make a real impact on Lincoln’s quality of life. Everyone is encouraged to join in for a record-setting event on May 28.

HopeSpoke is here to help and available to serve additional clients at this time. If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about utilizing telehealth services or would like to schedule an intake appointment, please contact HopeSpoke at (402) 475-7666 or info@hopespoke.org. HopeSpoke continues to provide outpatient services to all who need them in the community regardless of a person or family’s ability to pay for services.

Last year, Give to Lincoln Day raised a record-breaking $5,581,856 for 438 local nonprofits. Give to Lincoln Day aims to promote philanthropy in the city. By helping nonprofits raise funds, the daylong event helps them carry out their important work and supplements budgets, which are challenged to meet current demands. It also allows nonprofits to tell their stories and attract new donors. The Lincoln Community Foundation is currently researching alternative methods to their in-person Give to Lincoln Day trainings for nonprofits in April.

Stay tuned for more information!

To see the latest news or to make a donation, please go to www. hopespoke.org.

Gifts can be made online at givetolincoln.com beginning May 1 and will qualify for Give to Lincoln Day and matching funds.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska Upholds Mission Through Crisis

Lincoln Rotary #14 Volunteers at Community Action’s Gathering Place

Goodwill Industries Ser ving Southeast Nebraska takes the safety of their employees, shoppers, donors, and community seriously. In adherence with state and local government guidelines, they have had to make significant changes to their stores and services. These changes have severely reduced Goodwill’s ability to generate the revenue they need to serve the community and neighbors who need their life-changing services.

In an effort to meet continued needs during the COVID-19 crisis, Community Action’s Gathering Place has not only adapted its services, but expanded them. On April 4, the Gathering Place expanded service days, previously Monday through Friday, to include weekends. Lincoln Rotary #14 volunteered to support this effort and packaged meals the first weekend of increased service.

Free hot, nutritious meals from the Gathering Place are packaged in to-go boxes, available for pick-up seven days a week between 5 to 6 p.m., on the Gathering Place front porch at 1448 E St. Expanding to include weekend service was identified as an immediate priority in light of circumstances related to COVID-19.

The decision to begin weekend service at the Gathering Place was made earlier this year. It came in light of previously observed community need, including a guest survey, and a recommendation by the Gathering Place Advisory Committee. Implementation was initially planned for late May, thanks to the support of Lincoln Community Foundation and Union Bank & Trust. As circumstances evolved within the community, however, the agency decided to move its start date forward. The addition of weekend meal service at the Gathering Place is permanent and will continue even after social distancing guidelines are lifted.

For more information about Community Action’s Gathering Place, visit www.communityactionatwork.org. Donations can be made online or mailed to: Community Action 210 O St., Lincoln, NE 68508. For more information about how to help, contact Heather at (402) 875-9339.

Goodwill’s mission is “willing workers employed and community resources maximized.” Last year alone, Goodwill served 3,943 individuals with over 42,000 units of service in the Lincoln community. The people they serve work hard to overcome personal and professional challenges to employment.

In times of such economic uncertainty, these services are needed more than ever.

Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska continues to provide services to the community via telephone and email.

Jobseekers are encouraged to visit www.lincolngoodwill.org for online learning or call (402) 477-0436 for one-on-one job assistance. If you are able to give a financial donation to Goodwill and support those who are working to improve their lives, please visit www.lincolngoodwill.org/donate.

Domesti-PUPS Reschedules Upcoming Events and Classes as Safety Measure Domesti-PUPS is taking extra care of their clients and volunteers as COVID-19 unfolds by practicing social distancing and rescheduling or cancelling upcoming events and classes. New arrangements are as follows: Saturday Playgroups: • Summer monthly playgroups will be held June 13, July 11, and August 15 • Weekly playgroups will resume in the fall on Saturday, September 5 Pet Therapy Visits: • Regular pet therapy visits will be cancelled through May 6 Obedience Classes (Lincoln location): • Puppy Manners will be held at 1 p.m. on Sunday, May 10 • Beginning Obedience will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 10 • Intermediate Obedience will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 10 • Canine Good Citizen class will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12; Testing will be held on Saturday, June 20 Pet Therapy Certification Course: • Fremont course begins Tuesday, June 30, at 6 p.m.

• Lincoln course begins Thursday, July 2, at 6 p.m.

• Auburn course dates to be announced soon Domesti-PUPS is committed to continuing their important mission as a service organization that provides assistance dogs for persons with disabilities, pet therapy programs, classroom dogs and educational programs, and a rescue dog training/adoption program. To learn more, visit domesti-pups.org. If you have signed up for a class that has been rescheduled and the dates no longer work for you, please email info@domesti-pups.org to request a refund; otherwise, your space will be held for that class. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS RESPECT Creates Online Educational Theatre Experiences to Advance Mission During Crisis

Ronald McDonald House Offers Meals That Heal Program with Curbside Delivery

During this c hallenging and unprecedented time, RESPECT’s work to prevent bullying and c h i l d a b u s e a n d p ro m o t e positive mental health among youth is more important than ever. RESPECT is building ways to virtually offer their educational theatre experiences online and continue to use theatre tools to advance their mission. In addition, the organization has been sharing tips and resources for parents and educators during this time.

Ro n a l d M c D o n a l d H o u s e Charities (RMHC) is thoroughly grateful for the continued support of the Meals That Heal program, not only for the food provided to families but for the community’s dedication to supporting their neighbors in any way possible. To lessen the risk of potential infection for their families, volunteer activities have been restricted and meals can only be donated via “curbside delivery.”

Since the crisis began, most of these deliveries have been ordered through local restaurants that are also feeling the strain of the current circumstances.

RMHC is no stranger to illness. The families they serve have children facing a whole host of illnesses, many of which compromise their immune systems, making them vulnerable to infections. As an organization, they do whatever it takes to ensure those children and their families have a clean, safe, supportive environment where they can heal, together.

Families staying at Ronald McDonald House Charities count on the community to provide them with much-needed meals at the end of their long days, and that need has not diminished during this COVID-19 pandemic. To participate in the Meals That Heal Curbside program without ever leaving your home, contact Laurie Cope at lcope@rmhcomaha.org. Learn more about RMHC online at www. rmhcomaha.org.

RESPECT’s typical programs consist of educational theatre presentations paired with panel or group discussions led by community professionals and our actor-educators. In talk-back sessions for elementary students, participants have the opportunity to try out their own solutions through role-playing. Programs for middle and high school students allow participants to submit questions anonymously for discussion during the talk-back session.

Each adult training is 60 or 90 minutes and combines a researchbased presentation with the use of theatre and role-play.

For two decades, RESPECT has helped give children, teens, college students and adults throughout Nebraska and Iowa the skills they need to prevent and to stop bullying and other forms of abuse in relationships. To see what RESPECT is doing to keep the community safe, follow them on Facebook (@respect2) or visit the website at www.respect2all.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS City Impact Recognizes Selfless Acts During COVID-19 Crisis

CHAD Announces Curt Gordon Memorial Foundation Grant Recipients

City Impact would like to recognize some amazing donors for supporting local families during the COVID-19 crisis. A local family, who wishes to remain anonymous, decided to donate grocery gift cards to City Impact families-in-need. The family reached out to a few friends and together they generated $4,000!

Combined Health Agencies Drive (CHAD) recently announced the 2020 Curt Gordon Memorial Foundation grant recipients.

Distributions made from the endowment fund are generated by funds from donors above and beyond the annual workplace campaigns across the state. Nine of the organization’s 21 member charities received programming grants this year: • Autism Action Partnership – $3,000 to fund the Circle of Friends program in 10 schools • Arthritis Foundation Nebraska – $1,750 to send kids to JA summer camp • Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska – $3,100 to expand the Unmasking Brain Injury statewide exhibit • Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, Nebraska/Iowa Chapter – $1,250 to help fund scholarships to send kids to Crohn’s summer camp • JDRF International-Nebraska, Southwest Iowa Chapter – $2,500 to fund Movie Night in North Platte • Nebraska Chapter of the National Hemophilia Foundation – $2,500 for teen program expansion • Nebraska AIDS Project – $5,000 to expand PrEP to Kearney, NE • Nebraska Hospice and Palliative Care Association – $3,500 to fund peer-to-peer continuing education hours at its 2020 conference • Muscular Dystrophy Association of Nebraska – $1,500 to help fund scholarships to send kids to MDA camp For more information about CHAD, visit www.chadnebraska.org; go on social media (@CHADNebraska); or call (402) 614-8500.

There are so many working families who need extra help right now, and the 40 gift cards were all spoken for in just a few minutes. One family was unable to get a gift card in time. When another City Impact mom with four kids of her own saw this—she immediately offered to give them her gift card. The sacrificial generosity of this single mom is a beautiful example of the ripple of empowerment at work.

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 online at cityimpact. org or contact Lisa Guill at (402) 477-8080 / lguill@cityimpact.org.

The American Heart Association’s Local Heart & Stroke Walk Goes Virtual The American Heart Association is embracing the new normal and moving its iconic annual Heart & Stroke Walk online, set for Saturday, May 30, in response to the recent coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic keeping more Americans at home. The Heart Walk is locally presented by Nelnet, Children’s Hospital, CHI Health, Farmer’s Mutual of Nebraska, Molex, New Generation Construction, Pioneer Heart Institute, NRC Health, Speedway Motors and Firespring. The fundraiser is a fun and meaningful way to celebrate heart and stroke survivors, raise lifesaving funds, and encourage physical activity. The funds raised from the Heart Walk will go toward research, advocacy, CPR training, and promoting better health.

On Saturday, May 30, Lincoln area Heart Walk participants and teams will not physically meet but are invited to get moving at home or around the neighborhood. Here are a few fun activities to consider choosing from: • Take a walk outside (while following current social distancing guidelines).

• Get the whole family involved and have an indoor dance party.

• Try out a few strengthening exercises like push-ups, lunges, and squats.

• Create an at home circuit workout.

To register, visit www.LincolnHeartWalk.com. From there, participants can stay up to date by downloading the Heart Walk mobile app and can encourage friends and family to join in via email or on social media. On the day of, everyone is encouraged to wear their Heart Walk shirt and post pictures and videos to document your activity using #HeartWalkNE. The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. They are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations and the support of millions of volunteers, they fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health, and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with them on Facebook (@AmericanHeart) and Twitter (@American_Heart) or by calling 1-(800) AHA-USA1. Visit heart.org to learn more. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS Fresh Start Announces Temporary Closer of The Daisy Thrift Shop

Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach Provides Boxed To-Go Meals During COVID-19

Fresh Start’s The Daisy Thrift Shop is closed until May 15 in response to the pandemic caused by coronavirus.

Fresh Start will look to Department of Health and Human Services for guidance for reopening its largest fundraiser, The Daisy Thrift Shop. Stay up to date on the shop reopening by visiting the Facebook page (@ thedaisythriftshop). This closure is intended to promote social distancing to help slow the spread of the virus.

A pandemic doesn’t make homelessness stop, and Fresh Start is still open and providing services to their residents. Their building remains closed to visitors unless you are dropping off essential items such as: gloves, paper towels, sanitizer wipes, hand soap, Lysol spray, and hand sanitizer. These items help Fresh Start maintain a safe and healthy living environment for the 24 women they serve.

Fresh Start’s mission is to empower women experiencing homelessness to overcome barriers to self-sufficiency by recognizing and using their strengths. It is more than a shelter; it’s a goaloriented program designed to support women who are working diligently to improve their lives. Call Audrey at Fresh Start at (402) 475-7777 for more information, visit www.FreshStartHome. org, or follow on Facebook (@FreshStartHomeLincoln).

Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is monitoring the news related to the spread of the coronavirus and making necessary accommodations as this public health crisis evolves. Amidst the many closures and cancellations in Lincoln, the needs of Matt Talbot’s guests do not stop and in fact may increase as the economic situation worsens. The staff is working with their community partners and volunteers to ensure that they prioritize safety and continue to meet the needs of the homeless and near homeless. Boxed to-go meals are provided from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5 to 6:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. On Saturday and Sunday, boxed to-go meals are available from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Congregate meals are temporarily suspended until further notice.

Other than meals, the facility is only open to guests using laundry, shower, and hygiene services by appointment. Education classes are suspended until further notice. However, Matt Talbot’s housing, case management, counseling, and substance use evaluation services are ongoing.

Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach’s leadership team is assessing the situation daily to ensure the agency’s operations are following recommendations to keep the community and their staff, volunteers, and guests safe. Get the most recent updates and learn how you can help at mtko.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Stepping Stones Now Offering Counseling Services Via Telehealth

Angels Among Us Creates COVID-19 Response Fund for Its Cancer Families

If you are struggling with anxiety or depression during this time but want to maintain social distance, Stepping Stones is now offering Telehealth (online) counseling services through the HIPAA compliant telecommunications platform, Doxy.me. These are difficult times and Stepping Stones is thankful to be able to continue to connect to those in need of services. Substance abuse evaluations and counseling are also available via telehealth.

Angels Among Us (AAU) has created its own COVID-19 response fund for its cancer families to help fill the funding gap they are currently experiencing.

Currently, 92 cancer families are being financially supported by Angels Among Us in the form of payments to mortgage and rent, utilities, auto payments, medical bills, and other critical needs. These 92 families are relying on AAU’s support more than ever.

In most cases it is likely that a parent of a child with cancer either loses a job or is forced to quit their job due to their child’s diagnosis. In this current situation many families are experiencing additional income loss and additional job losses.

Imagine having a child battling cancer with a compromised immune system during these uncertain times. Imagine not only losing one job in your household, but being furloughed or laid off a second household income due to COVID-19.

Angels Among Us has commitments to keep to its families, and they need your help to do so. Please consider giving to the COVID-19 response fund at https://bit.ly/2VbeIaa or send a check paid to Angels Among Us at 3858 Jones St., STE A, Omaha, NE 68105. Every dollar matters and every dollar helps to keep local cancer families focused on what matters most—their sick child. For more information about events or to get involved, contact Aly Theilen at alyssa@myangelsamongus.org or visit myangelsamongus.org.

Appointments can be made by calling (402) 483-4571. If you have questions about the process, do not hesitate to reach out to the direct line at (402) 488-6511. The compassionate and experienced therapists, Shannon Miller, PLMHP, LADC and Keri Nider, LIMHP, LADC can explain the process. All you need is a computer/laptop, smartphone, tablet, or other device with audio and video capability and an internet connection.

To learn more about Stepping Stones, visit www.steppingstoneslincoln. com. Stepping Stones is a program of Lincoln Medical Education Partnership which is located at 4600 Valley Rd. here in Lincoln.

Nebraska Community Foundation Explains How CARES Act Impacts Charitable Giving The Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) is aware of the impact the CARES Act will have on charitable giving. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress has passed the $2 trillion-plus CARES Act which does many things, including providing direct cash payments to Americans, pushing back income tax filing and payment deadlines, and encouraging charitable giving. The NCF shared three ways the CARES Act may affect charitable giving: 1. Above-the-Line Charitable Deduction—To encourage cash gifts to nonprofits, there is $300 above-the-line income tax charitable deduction that is available beginning in 2020 to those who claim the standard deduction. Only about 10% of donors itemize their deductions; for the 90% who take the standard deduction, this may motivate them to make charitable gifts.

2. 100% Charitable Deduction—For 2020, individual donors may deduct cash gifts to charities up to 100% of their adjusted gross income (AGI). The 100% limit is reduced dollar-for-dollar for each non-cash gift (i.e., highly appreciated stocks or property) and is not available for cash gifts to donor-advised funds. In normal years, donors can carry forward charitable deductions if they go above 60% of their AGI, and that might still be a good idea. The taxpayer must make an election on his/her tax return to take the larger deduction. It is important to seek counsel from a professional advisor.

3. Temporary waiver of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from retirement plans for 2020—Required minimum distributions (RMDs) do not have to be taken for 2020, which may reduce the incentive for donors to make qualified charitable distributions (QCDs).

However, donors are still allowed to make QCDs from their IRAs of up to $100,000 beginning at age 70.5.

Nebraska Community Foundation unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving, and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. Learn more at NebraskaHometown.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Bright Lights to Offer Summer Activities for Kids in Grades K-8 Bright Lights has a variety of camps open that will appeal to many ages and interests. Here are a few that take place during their Programming - Week 4, June 22–26: • Students in grades K-1 — In It’s a Snap! Intro to Coding (#604), students spend the mornings learning that coding with KUBO is as easy as putting together a puzzle and does not require any computers or coding experience.

• Students in grades 2-4 — Have a student curious about natural disasters? Do they keep any “eye on the sky” for weather changes?

Have them join the morning meteorology team in Eye on the Sky: Weather Watchers (#604).

• Students in grades 3-5 — Get crafty! Making it Fantastic (#624) camp takes place from 9 a.m. to noon and lets students hone their “making skills” and become a master crafter. At the end of the week, their creations will be on display in a gallery walk!

• Students in grades 6-8 — Join the classroom lab in Genetic Engineering (#726) and discover how genetic engineering is a common and essential practice in biotechnology. From purifying plasmids to creating a DNA necklace, this afternoon camp brings science to life for students.

Bright Lights encourages students to try something new, opening the door to an entirely new passion! Go to www.BrightLights.org and click on “Register” for a complete list of open camps and to register. Please also watch their website and social media pages for any updates that may occur. Have a student too old to take a camp? Consider having them be a Camp Assistant! Learn more about these volunteer positions and apply at brightlights.org/assistants or call (402) 420-1115.

MAY 2020 Strictly Business 41

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NONPROFIT NEWS Mourning Hope Sells Quilt Tiles to Raise Money for New Grief Center

Nonprofit Association of the Midlands Relocates to Historic Mastercraft Building

With construction of the new Mourning Hope Grief Center 65% complete, the nonprofit invites community members to purchase a quilt tile to support the remaining construction efforts while memorializing someone significant in their life. With a gift of $250 or more, you can be part of the Mosaic Quilt that will be featured in the Community Room in the new Center. This piece will reflect the community’s commitment to Lincoln’s bereaved children and families. Donations at all levels will help complete construction of this home that will restore hope and provide healing for those in grief.

Like all nonprofits, Mourning Hope is struggling with this new reality that COVID-19 has unexpectedly thrust upon everyone. The Center’s small-but-mighty team has already seen an increased demand for grief support services and resources. To address this need, staff established a platform of no-cost, virtual grief support groups for families and are offering free, online individual counseling sessions for those who consider Mourning Hope their lifeline.

The aftermath of this crisis is inconceivable, and soon, Mourning Hope will be called upon to address the largest public health threat facing the country in decades. Mourning Hope is needed now, more than ever, as they mitigate this crisis. For additional details about the Mosaic Quilt and to download a quilt tile order form, please visit mourninghope.org/ capitalcampaign/mosaic.html.

On March 9, the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) relocated its office to the historic Mastercraft building, 1111 N 13th St., STE 213 in downtown Omaha. Part of the Millwork Commons neighborhood undergoing revitalization, the Mastercraft building is filled with an entrepreneurial spirit that dates back to 1925.

“The Mastercraft, a collaborative space for nonprofits, startups, and community-focused organizations, is a perfect fit as we help our nonprofit members representing health and human services, the arts, education, and other areas make an impact in the communities they serve,” NAM CEO Anne Hindery said. “We look forward to continuing our mission of connecting organizations with information, education, advocacy, and collaboration.”

Incorporated in 2002, Nonprofit Association of the Midlands is a state association that represents more than 650 nonprofit organizations in Nebraska and southwest Iowa. For more information on NAM, visit nonprofitam.org.

DSAF Thanks Supporters for Making 2020 World Down Syndrome Day a Virtual Success The Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska (DSAF) would World Down Syndrome Day like to thank their sponsors and all 3.21.20 who logged on to this year’s virtual World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) celebration for making the event such a success! Because of the quick-thinking of DSAF Program Director Dawna Daily and Marketing and Development Director Mary Sweeney, the virtual celebration included story times, a Netflix movie party, sing-alongs, Miss Amazing, Allison Bruckner’s “Don’t Limit Me” speech, a silent auction, a Facebook Live dance party, and much more. The DSAF was also featured on two radio stations, 102.7 FM and Froggy 98.1. You could see the happiness happening in real time through everyone’s WDSD shout outs and wellwishes from all across the country!

The DSAF reported the success of the week: • Number of times DSAF content was visible on social media — 27,729 • Total people exposed to DSAF content — 7,925 • Engaged DSAF Facebook followers — 876 • Posts with #DSAFRocks — 155 • Funds raised — $3,555 The Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska is committed to providing support and inspiration for individuals with Down syndrome, their families, friends, educators, and professionals in their life. To learn more, go to dsafnebraska.org. If you would like to know more about how you can be a part of next year’s WDSD, contact Mary Sweeney, (402) 202-0193 / mary@dsafnebraska.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Community Calls Upon Center for People in Need as Impact of Pandemic is Felt Locally As local businesses implemented furloughs and layoffs, the Center for People in Need saw a definite increase in demand. More than 325 new families signed up for Center services in a span of three weeks. Now, the Center is distributing food to more than 1,100 families per week, and the numbers continue to rise.

“We’ve seen a steady increase in need, as more and more people come to our drive-thru distribution,” said Steve Sheridan, the Center’s deputy director. “So far, we’ve seen about 100 new families each week.”

“This isn’t unexpected,” said Executive Director Chris Funk. “We knew need would increase.

Projections from Feeding America, a national hunger-relief organization, estimate that across the country, food insecurity will increase 45% over the next six months. In Nebraska, that would mean an additional 100,000 hungry people.”

The increase in demand is stretching resources, as the Center’s employees balance their dedication to serving the community with the needs of their own families.

“Transitioning to distributing pre-bagged food in a low-contact drivethru has been tough,” Sheridan said. “Many of our staff are doing completely different jobs now, but we are dedicated to serving our community through this crisis.”

The Center for People in Need is a community-based nonprofit dedicated to helping low-income people achieve economic independence. For the safety of clients and staff, Center services are currently limited to food and diaper distribution. Please make a donation today at cfpin.org and help keep Lincoln fed.

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HEALTH NEWS The Lymphedema Clinic is Now Accepting Health Insurance

Nebraska Community Blood Bank Invites Healthy Donors to Support Community Health

In order to better treat The Nebraskans affected b y l y m p h e d e m a , Lymphedema Lincoln Lymphedema & Occupational Therapy, LLC— Clinic The Lymphedema Clinic has networked with many new health insurance companies. The clinic can now accept insurance from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska, Cigna, Humana, Nebraska Total Care, and Wellcare. The Lymphedema Clinic has been working hard to communicate and submit necessary information with insurance providers to become an “in network” provider and give patients the best rates possible. The goal is to get in network with all state, federal, and private insurances in Nebraska.

The Lymphedema Clinic is striving forward even more so by submitting applications to Medicare Part B, United Health Care, and United Health Care Community Plan. Once the clinic becomes an official Medicare provider, it plans to apply to work with Tricare patients as well.

Lincoln Lymphedema & Occupational Therapy, LLC was recently established by Adam Rawson as the first stand-alone lymphedema clinic in Nebraska. Adam urges those affected by lymphedema to call the clinic at (402) 904-4474 to see if your insurance is now accepted.

The Lymphedema Clinic is located at 3940 Corhusker Hwy., STE 200 and is accepting new patients. Even if they are not specifically “in network” with your insurance, the clinic may be able to take it and see you to help you reduce your swelling, heal your wounds, and live your best quality life. Learn more only at llotnebraska.com.

Nebraska Community Blood Bank (NCBB) is inviting all healthy blood donors to step forward in an effort to support community health. NCBB continues to operate as an essential part of Nebraska’s infrastructure during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Donating blood is a safe and simple way to support the health of the community, and only volunteer donors can provide the blood products patients rely on.

There has been an overwhelming response to the recent appeal for donors, and NCBB would like to thank all of the Nebraskans who have donated in support of their friends and neighbors. The need for blood is constant, and NCBB will continue to need donors in the coming months.

Blood is perishable and the supply must be constantly replenished to ensure a stable supply for Nebraska’s major hospitals. It’s the blood on the shelf today that helps save lives in an emergency.

NCBB has implemented additional safety measures to keep donors and staff safe, including social distancing and restricted access at donor centers, making appointments mandatory to help maintain distancing, and additional screening measures for donors and staff. As always, donors must be free from any cold or flu-like symptoms for at least 72 hours to be eligible to give.

Please consider making an appointment to give blood or platelets in the coming weeks. Contact Nebraska Community Blood Bank to schedule and to learn more about how they keep donors and staff safe amid the COVID-19 pandemic by going online to NCBB.org or calling 1-(877) 986-9414.

Thank you for voting us

Lincoln’s Choice for Medical Clinic We are OPEN during the COVID-19 outbreak, to provide care and alternative options for healthcare facilities who are doing a fantastic job serving the pandemic needs of our community.

Additional precautionary measures have been taken for the safety of our staff and patients within our building. We are also reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission with new virtual healthcare options that connect patients to our providers from the safety and comforts of their own homes. www.AMImaging.com

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HEALTH NEWS Hillcrest’s Telehealth Provider, Medocity, Launches COVID-19 Digital Platform

ACCESS TO YOU.

ALL THE TIME.

Medocity, a leader in enterprise virtual care technology, launched its COVID-19 screening and remote monitoring solution on March 26 for Hillcrest Home Care. Built upon Medocity’s flagship Digital Care Platform, the populationbased COVID-19 program enables virtual screening, remote symptom monitoring, vital signs tracking, and proactive interventions personalized for any population, including high risk patients with multiple co-morbidities.

“Coronavirus puts many of our home health clients, particularly those with complex conditions such as COPD and CHF, at far greater risk than before,” said Lauren Wright, administrator of Hillcrest Home Care. “We can now remotely monitor and track changes to temperature, oxygen levels, and other COVID-19 specific symptoms every day. This allows us to quickly identify those requiring additional healthcare attention so that we can provide the right service at the right time.”

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In response to the expanding global threat, Medocity accelerated development of a targeted digital program with COVID-19 specific clinical protocols to: • Aid in the early identification of possible COVID-19 cases in a population • Proactively push frequent, consistent, relevant communications and guidance personalized to each user

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• A llow for real-time active monitoring of individuals and reported symptoms • Facilitate timely escalation of care as changes in health status are noted • Track and report evolving COVID-19 related population health statistics and trends over time to ensure resources are appropriately deployed Hillcrest Home Care clinical team members will use their own mobile devices to provide daily self-reported symptom checks to ensure they are healthy and able to report to work. Separately, low-risk at-home patients can use their own mobile devices to perform the same self-assessments. For high-risk COPD and CHF patients, Hillcrest will utilize its existing remote monitoring program with pre-configured tablets and devices supplied by Medocity. Any reported patientvitals such as temperature, heart rate, or oxygen levels (pulse ox) that are outside pre-determined parameters will trigger real-time clinician alerts and appropriate, proactive COVID-19 interventions.

The Medocity Digital Care Platform is the next generation in early and proactive intervention, enabling their clients to deliver comprehensive virtual care programs for patients with any condition, anywhere in the world, monitoring patient-reported data from hundreds of sources, and applying artificial intelligence to identify anomalies, send out alerts, and intervene when necessary — all in real-time, through one common ecosystem. For more information, visit www.medocity.com.

Hillcrest Home Care offers skilled medical home health and telehealth services to aging adults in 11 counties in Nebraska and Iowa. The agency is part of Hillcrest Health Services, which offers the widest array of senior health care and housing services in the region, including independent and assisted living, memory support, postacute rehabilitation, long-term care, adult day services, outpatient therapy, home health, hospice and in-home personal care. For more information about Hillcrest’s services, visit hillcresthealth.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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HEALTH NEWS Beyond Vision LNK Becomes First in Lincoln American Cancer Society Brings Attention to Offer Tele-optometry, ICare Home to Sun Safety Optometrist Dr. Carla Ericksen of Beyond Vision LNK recently announced immediate availability of virtual in-home office visits, becoming the first eye clinic in Lincoln to offer tele-optometry services. This allows safe continued care of glaucoma, dry eye, visual rehabilitation therapy, red eye, or urgent care such as loss of vision and eye pain.

Beyond Vision is also now offering ICare Home and OCT for all eye care patients. OCT technology is one way to monitor patients so they can safely use hydroxychloroquine (a medication trialed for treatment of COVID-19).

Telemedicine allows Dr. Ericksen to directly see her patients in video visits conducted online through the use of computer, iPhone or iPad, or Android devices. Patients can stay home and schedule a virtual eye visit with Dr. Ericksen while avoiding exposing themselves or others to infection. Tele-optometry can reduce costs to patients who have to pay for drivers, travel, or take extra time off work when presenting to the office. Tele-optometry is also convenient for rural patients, those who would have to travel long distances, and those needing renewed medicine prescriptions. Tele-optometry is included in your direct care, and yearly eye exams are recommended for all patients.

Beyond Vision LNK strives to give continued care and access at low cost to all patients, and is the first direct care optometry location in Lincoln. The company offers a wide range of eye services to maintain good ocular health from three months and as you age. Schedule a virtual appointment by calling (402) 261-8699. More information can be found online by visiting www.beyondvisionlnk.com.

Your Health.

Your Teeth.

Your Smile.

The American Cancer Society reminds us that the sun produces ultraviolet (UV) rays that can damage skin and eyes with too much exposure.

Sun damage can lead to serious consequences such as melanoma skin cancer, Merkel cell skin cancer, or Basal and Squamous cell skin cancer.

People with light skin are more likely to get sun damage, but it can happen to anyone. People with darker skin, including Native Americans and Alaska Natives, can get sun damage and skin cancer. There is a lot a person can do a lot to help protect themselves and their family from skin cancer. The American Cancer Society put together some steps you can take to limit your amount of exposure to UV rays: • Cover up with clothes • Wear a hat with a wide brim all around • Wear sunglasses that block UV rays • Choose broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30, apply it generously to all exposed areas, and re-apply every two hours you’re in the sun • Limit midday sun exposure • Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps • Babies younger than six months of age should be kept out of direct sunlight and protected from the sun using hats and clothing) Giving you accurate, up-to-date information on cancer is one of the American Cancer Society’s top priorities. If you would like more information about sun safety, please visit cancer.org or call 1-(800) 227-2345.

Melanie Fulton, DDS

Meghan Hungerford, DDS

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LINCOLN LYMPHEDEMA CLINIC Adam Rawson, OTD, OTR/L, CLT-LANA

(402) 904-4474 www.llotnebraska.com

So much of what I do as a therapist is not well understood as public knowledge, so I get a lot of questions. First, what is an occupational therapist? Well, it is not a career services professional. An occupational therapist is a holistic health professional who works to help people live their best lives with an emphasis on self-care, independence, and dignity. Second, what is a certified lymphedema therapist? A certified lymphedema therapist is someone who has successfully completed a 135-hour training course to learn to treat lymphedema.

In the past five years, I have noticed a lot of people living with lymphedema that goes untreated because the awareness is simply lacking. I have also noticed the great impact that good treatment can yield, and a lack of certified therapists. My choice to seek certification was largely driven by the identification of an unmet need in our community. Here, I want to answer some of the most common questions about lymphedema, causes, diagnosis, and treatment.

What is lymphedema? - Lymphedema is a specific type of swelling that happens when a protein-rich, clear fluid, called lymph builds up in your tissue causing it to swell.

What causes lymphedema? - In short, a problem with the lymphatic system. Some people are born with developmental issues such that their lymphatic systems are either underdeveloped or extremely overdeveloped and not working well enough. Other people are born with lymphatic systems that are functional but can just barely handle the daily load. Then something happens to tip the balance, and the lymphatic system can no longer keep up with the demand. The most common cause in the United States is cancer treatments, with the leader being breast cancer treatment. This can be caused when lymph nodes are removed or radiation treatments damage the lymph nodes and lead to secondary lymphedema.

How do you know if your swelling is lymphedema or another type of edema? - I believe with any type of swelling there is always going to be a lymphatic component. Most health care professionals diagnose lymphedema with a review of your medical history and a physical exam.

There are several diagnostic procedures used to examine the lymphatic system and diagnose lymphedema, however, the results typically do not change the treatment process, the tests add costs to your care and require your time and participation.

How do you treat lymphedema, what can I expect? - The gold standard for lymphedema treatment is called complete decongestive therapy (CDT). With CDT you treat lymphedema with manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) techniques, compression, skincare, and remedial exercises during the intensive treatment phase. During the second treatment phase, you would focus on transitioning to long-term management, or what is commonly called the maintenance phase. During phase two you learn to perform skin cares, home exercises, self-MLD techniques, apply and remove daily wear compression.

How long does the treatment take? - That varies greatly depending on the severity of the symptoms. It can take anywhere from a few visits to weeks of ongoing treatment. A more informed estimate could be discussed during an evaluation with a certified lymphedema therapist.

Naturally, as treatment progresses you and your therapist will more accurately be able to predict what is needed to reach your goals.

Who should I see to treat lymphedema? - I would recommend getting lymphedema treatment from a certified lymphedema therapist (CLT).

Many health care professionals are qualified to become certified including physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, speech therapists, and massage therapists. Additionally, the therapist can demonstrate knowledge of lymphatic conditions, treatment, and related issues by passing the Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) board exam and carrying the CLT-LANA credentials behind their name. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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FRIENDS4LUNCH Upcoming Events on ZOOM In April, Strictly Business had few firsts, including hosting Friends4Lunch virtually on ZOOM. It was a very neat experience. Our team was a little nervous about how smoothly it would go (we did a couple practice rounds amongst ourselves beforehand), but we were very happy with the result and enjoyed seeing friendly faces pop up on our screens.

Like many businesses and organizations, the COVID-19 crisis has forced Strictly Business to take our networking efforts online. It’s important to us to still be making new connections while also staying connected to our current clients and friends. During last month’s Friends4Lunch on ZOOM, we all went around to introduce ourselves, our business, and how we’ve personally been affected by the coronavirus. We heard a variety of different responses. We also shared laughs as the introverts and extroverts of the group identified themselves, admitting how social distancing is either going pretty well or pretty painfully...but we all agreed that we’re looking forward to being able to ACTUALLY see each other again. Until then, we will continue to host events online. Mark your calendars for the following virtual meet-ups Strictly Business has planned!

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Friends4Drinks - Tuesday, May 5, 4 p.m.

Order a to-go margarita from your favorite local bar (or pour yourself whatever beverage you have at home) and celebrate Cinco de Mayo with the Strictly Business team on Tuesday, May 5, starting at 4 p.m. on ZOOM. This is a chance to connect with other local professionals online. It will be a fun time as we’ll start by having everyone introduce themselves and then share the creative ways they’ve been supporting local businesses during this time. Following introductions, we’ll be breaking into smaller groups for an interactive game led by a Strictly Business team member. Feel free to pop in late or exit out early if needed.

Friends4Lunch - Wednesday, May 13, 11:30 a.m.

Strictly Business will host Friends4Lunch on ZOOM again this month. We invite you to “join” us on Wednesday, May 13, starting at 11:30 a.m. Just like last month, we will give everyone the chance to tell the group about their business and then open up discussion on relevant topics. Depending on the number of participants, we will break out into smaller groups to allow for more personal discussions. During this time, we encourage you to order food from your favorite local restaurant that is either doing pick-up or delivery.

We, of course, recommend out client restaurants—The Chocolate Season, Raising Cane’s, Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee Bar, Villa Amore, The Venue Restaurant & Lounge, Piedmont Bistro by Venue, Cactus Modern Mexican & Cantina by Venue, Goodcents Deli Fresh Subs, MoMo Pizzeria & Ristorante, H.F. Crave, and McKinney’s Irish Pub—but the decision is totally up to you!

The ZOOM meeting IDs for both of these events will be posted on the Facebook event pages (@strictlybusinessmagazine) and sent out via email. If you don’t receive our email reminders for Friends4Lunch and Friends4Drinks each month and would like to, please email editor@ strictlybusinessomaha.com or call the office at (402) 466-3330. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION Count on us for EVERY Season

by Todd Ogden, President (402) 434-6900 • www.downtownlincoln.org Lincoln Running Co. Invests in Community

“Objects in motion stay in motion.” This has become something like a mantra for running enthusiast Ann Ringlein. Even as the store manager of Lincoln Running Co. in downtown Lincoln, instructor of multiple running classes a week, a coach to many and a cheerleader for—let’s face it—everyone she meets, you’ll still find Ringlein lacing up her shoes and hitting the trails almost every morning (and usually a cycling or pilates class, too). Sitting still is just not something she’s built for.

“My mom would say that I started running the minute I was born,” Ringlein said. “I’ve always been very active, I was always moving.”

When she moved with her family to Lincoln in 1984, she instantly was embraced by the Lincoln running community. While getting her daughter a pair of shoes at The Athlete’s Foot at the mall, somebody from the Lincoln Track Club recognized her. She was introduced to owners Derald and Judy Rogers and their son, Dave, and was offered a job managing The Athlete’s Foot East Park location. Years later, the Rogers closed most of their Athlete’s Foot locations, opting to break away from the franchise to focus on their original location at 12th and Q, renaming it The Lincoln Running Co. The downtown fixture celebrates 44 years in 2020, and Ringlein will have been with the company 36 years.

“We have seen so much change at the store, it’s crazy,” Ringlein said.

“It used to be we’d come in, we’d open the doors, and people bought shoes. They’d train, show up at a race, eat a banana, and head home.

Now, we are always having social events for our customers. Today’s runner is more of a social one.”

A weekend in early February, Lincoln Running Co. hosted a short run in the morning at 7 a.m. to get people signed up for the Tabitha Miles for Meals Run in March. That evening, they had a movie watch party about trail running.

Besides hosting special events with the Lincoln Track Club, Ringlein and The Lincoln Running Co. work with the YMCA to put on an annual marathon training class that starts in January and runs until June. It meets twice a week for a group run and to listen to an informational speaker, and again on the weekends for a long run. When they get back, Ringlein treats them to coffee at MoJava.

“They sit around and talk for hours, ” she said. “It’s that camaraderie and bonding afterwards that really solidifies and hooks you in. Everybody coming in all happy. Healthy people are happy people, and it just makes for a better environment and city all the way around.”

Ringlein’s passion for running is obvious, but she admits that as she’s gotten older, she’s realized that just getting out and moving—in any way that works for you—is the most important thing.

“At first I thought I was going to get all of Lincoln running,” she said.

“And now I’m like, I’m going to get all of Lincoln moving. That’s a big thing. I don’t care what it is you do. Just get moving and do something, just so we’re a healthy, healthy city.

Look at all the miles of trails there are. There are nearly 200 miles of trails in and around Lincoln. That’s insane. I don’t know that there is any other place—in the Midwest, for sure—that has that many trails.

We are so, so lucky.”

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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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Staying Safe and Connected During a Crisis Pemberly Place continues its commitment to residents through creative engagement while following the latest health and safety guidelines.

Pemberly Place has been closely following CDC recommendations on how to slow the curve of COVID-19. Helen Crunk, executive director and recently-elected board chair of the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL), has been in communication with medical officers on the city, state, and national levels in order to deliver the best and most comprehensive care to all residents during this time of uncertainty. Helen has served on the NCAL board since 2011 and she is a past chair of the Nebraska Nursing Facility & Assisted Living Associations, so she has many contacts in the industry. As a result, the staff at Pemberly Place has implemented infection control tactics including more frequent sanitization of hard surface areas, suspending all community social activities and group dining, encouraging social distancing by not allowing outside visitors, delivering meals to apartments, and performing frequent hand hygiene for both staff and residents per recommendations from the CDC and state agencies. In addition, the on-site Archer Place Medical Clinic and tele-med partnership with Bryan Health allows residents to safely attend all medical appointments.

While Pemberly Place has been forced to limit their residents’ normal activities, they have been going above and beyond to keep the seniors in their care as happy as they can be with artwork, puzzles, card games, Snapchat filters, and laughs! They have taken up the message #CareNotCOVID to encourage the community to stay engaged with family members and friends in assisted living or nursing homes. Their staff has been working directly with family members to schedule FaceTime and Skype calls to keep in touch with loved ones.

Pemberly Place staff also went the extra mile by taking pictures of residents with personal whiteboard messages like “Thank you for taking good care of us and doing what needs to be done” and “Keep your chin up, I love you all” to share with family members via Facebook. Staff are encouraging family members to send similar photos or videos to their loved one online and tag Pemberly Place with the hashtag #CareNotCOVID. These positive messages are meant to help residents and staff feel supported during this difficult time, giving them a boost of love that they need now more than ever.

Pemberly Place is also accepting cards and letters for their residents. According to the state chief medical officer, the virus only lives on cardboard, plastic, and paper for six hours, and Pemberly Place guests only receive cards that have been quarantined for 48–72 hours.

Pemberly Place is known throughout Lincoln for their creative service planning and attention to each resident’s individual needs.

They are extremely flexible in order to provide individualized and meaningful care. Their care is designed to meet and exceed the quality benchmarks set by the National Center for Assisted Living.

When not social distancing, residents have access to a theater, chapel, market place, salon, fitness center, library, recreation areas with air hockey and foosball to entertain the young (and young at heart!), and more. The locally-owned community has Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care options. Pemberly Place is all-inclusive so residents receive three meals a day, free cable/ internet, access to their on-site medical clinic and sweet treats from the bistro.

www.pemberlyplace.com | (402) 413-9770 52

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LINCOLN INDEPENDENT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

by Bud Synhorst, President

(402) 466-3419 • www.liba.org

Supporting Community, Supporting Local

From the start of this pandemic, our team has focused on what we can do to promote our local businesses, all with one goal in mind: Doing whatever it takes to help connect business and resources! I could not be more proud of our team and how they have responded during this time. They have been adjusting to the “new normal” and really focusing on building relationships with members and providing whatever assistance we can for our community.

I’m confident that we will get through this and come out on top. I look forward to the day we are able to gather again in groups larger than 10 and have a meal at our favorite local restaurant.

One project we have been heavily involved with is the initiative of www.NebraskaBuyLocal.com. We partnered with Sandhills Global and the Nebraska Retail Federation to create a place for local businesses to offer gift cards for sale and for consumers to buy gift cards to support our local businesses. Our goal was clear—we want to do anything we can to help these businesses during this difficult time. We all agree that by working together, we can help our community through this pandemic. None of our group was in this project to make money...we all chipped in to help our community and our state because it is the right thing to do. I was recently reminded of a quote I heard many years ago, “Crisis doesn’t develop character, it reveals character.”

I have been so proud of the business stories I hear about every day where businesses are “adjusting to the times” in order to keep their business going. So many industries have been impacted by this pandemic in different ways. I have great pride in our community in how businesses have adjusted their models to continue to offer goods, services, and meals to our great community. Think of the number of delivery options we are experiencing during this time. Recall waiting in line to get into the local hardware store or small business in order to be the safest possible as we live our lives, or the many of us wearing masks in public to the enhanced focus on making sure we keep ourselves, our families, and others safe during this pandemic.

I am filled with joy seeing the amount of support for our local businesses in our community. I enjoy hosing virtual lunches on Tuesdays via Facebook live on the LIBA Facebook page to connect with the community and our guests have been very generous with their time and sharing ways to help others.

There are so many of our workers in the area who have had to deal with so much—temporary loss of work, having to navigate the system to receive benefits, and making sure they are helping their children with schooling. These are unprecedented times in our lives. So many parents are working so hard to make sure their families have their basic needs met and so much more. Parents are now making sure their kids are focused on school in a different environment.

Our community and state have held strong through this difficult time.

Our elected leaders have provided us with guidance and information.

I am proud of our community for standing together to make sure we support our businesses, one another and serve for the greater good.

As we celebrate things like #TakeoutTuesday, ordering items from your local hardware or clothing stores online, or buying gift cards at www.NebraskaBuyLocal.com, remember we are supporting our local community, our friends, and neighbors. Finally, make sure you show your support to people working through this difficult time. You never know when a smile or simple thank you will help pick someone up.

LIBA studies and promotes these types of issues that are important to businesses and our community. If you have an interest in joining, please call LIBA at (402) 466-3419. LIBA membership is not restricted to just businesses. We also have “individual” memberships for those who want to help influence our local government decisions.

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LIBA NEW MEMBERS

Liberty Mechanical Liberty Mec hanical provides plumbing and utility services to Lincoln and the surrounding areas.

They have individualized plumbing options that are always completed to the highest standards. The Liberty Mechanical team offers free consultations to explain all available options so that you can choose the scope of work that’s right for your home or business. Serving both residential and commercial clients, they combine their use of the highest quality parts and equipment with their dedication to delivering exceptional work.

Liberty Mechanical provides services ranging from new construction to servicing septic tanks, but no matter what they do, they strive to give satisfactory service. They also have confined space gas sensing equipment to provide calibration and service. Liberty Mechanical was founded in 2017 by Steven Barnes, bringing almost 35 years of experience in plumbing and utility services to the table. To learn more, go to libertymech.us or contact Steven at (402) 499-2152 / stevenbarnes@libertymech.us.

Watts & Hershberger, P.C. Watts & Hershberger, P.C. is a full-service CPA firm.

They offer accounting, income tax planning and preparation, online bookkeeping, consulting, and payroll services. They value the personal, one-on-one approach of doing business. In order to provide the best service, the firm works with clients to develop financial and tax strategies that are individualized and designed to fuel success. Their skilled staff is readily available to offer thoughtful analysis of financial data along with proper tax planning advice. They do everything in their power to avoid endof-year surprises for their clients. Watts and Hershberger has continually grown and expanded since its inception in 1982. They have a philosophy of establishing close, working relationships with clients and delivering a high degree of personal and dedicated service – Beyond The Numbers! To learn more, go to gowh.com or contact Mike Hershberger or Jim Watts at (402) 483-7512 / office@gowh.com.

WestRock WestRock is a packaging company that delivers consistent quality and superior service. They are more than a supplier—they consider themselves partners with all who use their service. WestRock aims to fuel innovation and foster real, sustainable growth. They have a long history of entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation.

That history includes game-changing developments in papermaking, packaging design, and retail solutions, as well as strategically building and strengthening their company’s capabilities over time.

With operations around the world and expertise in just about every shopping category, they focus on working with brands to help them succeed. WestRock fosters a diverse, inclusive, and safe workplace where new ideas and innovative thinking are encouraged and rewarded. They operate their business according to the highest ethical standards and encompass honesty, integrity, and respect in all aspects of their work. To learn more, go to westrock.com or contact Kay Petersen at (402) 601-3507.

MAY 2020 Strictly Business 53

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

In light of the coronavirus outbreak, a lot of Americans are stocking up on supplies and going into quarantine.

Among the items that are being cleared out of grocery stores, such as hand sanitizer and toilet paper, is bottled water. Even though the pandemic is extremely unlikely to affect the availability of drinking water in the U.S., people are still hyper aware of the health, safety, and accessibility of their lifestyle practices. Even before the term “COVID-19” was on everyone’s lips, the consumption of bottled water worldwide was on the rise.

FILTERED WATER VS. BOTTLED WATER

Bottled water definitely appears to be the better option at first glance. Nicely packaged and sealed, it certainly looks sterile and safe. However, this is not necessarily the case. In fact, according to a report by World Wildlife Fund International, “there are more standards regulating tap water in the United States than those applied to the bottled water industry.” Plus, even if the source of the bottled water is clean and safe, remember that the water in question is being bottled in plastic.

There are some alarming facts about the environmental impact of bottled water. For example, bottles used to package water take over 1,000 years to bio-degrade and, if incinerated, they produce toxic fumes. It is estimated that over 80% of all single-use water bottles used in the U.S. simply become “litter.” In addition, it is estimated that about three liters of water is used to package one liter of bottled water, meaning water is being wasted in the process. (Source: ValleyWater.org) Many people might consider recycling to be a solution, but there is still the energy required to manufacture plastic water bottles to be considered. According to The Pacific Institute, the creation of one ton of PET plastic, which is made into water bottles, releases three tons of CO2 into the atmosphere.

Improve the quality of your life by improving the quality of your water.

This is why filtered water proves to be the superior option in most cases. The benefits of filtered water aren’t limited to just the person drinking it—water filtration can help improve the entire ecosystem. Plus, the cost of bottled water can be a lot more expensive than having a filtered water system installed in your home or office….so it makes economical sense as well!

In addition to having a variety of filtration systems available Aqua Systems wants to help you spend your precious leisure time on leisure. Some companies are reluctant to give you a price on water treatment equipment unless they come to your home for a 60 or 90 minute sales presentation. Aqua Systems offers clear and simple pricing which you can get on their website, over the phone or in their store. The low pressure sales process is why 9 out of 10 people who talk with them do business with them.

So, instead of spending your hard earned money on bottled water, contact Aqua Systems and invest in a filtration system that is healthier for you and the environment.

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Learn more online at www.ilovemywater.com or call (402) 235-5867.

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LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

by Wendy Birdsall, President

(402) 436-2350 • www.lcoc.com

Planning for What’s Next

One of the most important things the Lincoln Chamber continues to do on behalf of our membership is to provide timely, accurate, and useful information regarding coronavirus and COVID-19. With an abundance of information impacting our members in different capacities, our goal is to continue connecting businesses with the information and resources needed to navigate these challenging times.

We have an extensive amount of these resources on our website at lcoc.com, which is constantly updated. Things continue to change at a rapid pace with new legislation, programs, and measures being put in place that can greatly affect businesses and the community. It is our job to communicate those changes and stay on top of the everchanging situation.

It has been amazing to see how our community has banded together to make contributions wherever necessary. As our skilled medical professionals continue their brave work to keep our community healthy, various organizations and individuals alike have contributed to their cause by donating masks and other materials.

We are not only seeing the community respond to the call for materials for our hospitals—we are truly witnessing ingenuity and creativity to answer our challenges. As we have likely all experienced in some capacity with our own use of technology, telehealth continues to help our medical professionals as well during this time.

While this has been a time of adaptation, there will be additional adjustments in the days and weeks ahead as we start to think about how our economy and day-to-day life will look in the near and longterm future.

The Lincoln Chamber continues to work closely with the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department and the City of Lincoln to communicate the latest health guidelines and recommendations to our community. We will continue to adhere to that guidance and will only start to resume previous operations when it is deemed healthy and advisable to do so.

4 Campuses.

150+ Programs Online.

• Business Administration, BS • Critical & Creative Thinking, MA • General Administration, BMS • MBA • Nonprofit Administration, BMS • Organizational and Relational Communication, BS • Public Administration, MPA • And more

online.nebraska.edu

While we don’t know an exact date for a so-called “return to normal,” the time to plan is now. The Lincoln Chamber, Greater Omaha Chamber, Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry, and other peer chambers remain connected in discussions regarding what a return to business looks like for our members and the community at large.

It is vital that businesses begin to prepare for new guidelines, processes, and requirements. How will your business be able to adapt to new health screening procedures? What about Personal Protective Equipment for employees and customers? How will your office adapt to potential changes regarding transportation and childcare upon returning to work?

The above questions are just scratching the surface of the evaluation we must now do as we attempt to navigate what’s next.

This also means proactively planning for another potential shutdown.

What was the biggest challenge for your business? How were workflows affected? Now is a great time to take stock of what’s happened and to look at ways to prepare for future disruptions, no matter their length.

We extend our gratitude and applaud those who help make our community healthy and strong, especially during such challenging times.

Thank you for continuing to support one another!

#PrintProudDigitalSmart

The Chamber of Commerce’s mission is to improve the lives of Lincoln residents by providing increased economic opportunity and can only be accomplished together. For more information, contact Derek Feyerherm at dfeyerherm@lincoln.org..

Jeff Letmkuhl Public Administration, MPA University of Nebraska at Omaha

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

E-COMMERCE 101: YOUR E-COMMERCE & SHIPPING SOLUTIONS

BY ADD A SHOP AND POINT2SHIP

The technology giant Sandhills Global is bringing a timely solution to today’s small business owners through the unique e-commerce products and services offered by its companies: Add A Shop and Point2Ship. For the many business owners who have suddenly found themselves needing to convert their services to an online format and merge into the world of e-commerce, Add A Shop and Point2Ship offer answers and solutions that can help businesses integrate seamlessly into e-commerce. With easy-to-use resources and tools that solve the problems of creating an effective website, uploading inventory into an online store, collecting payment, organizing an efficient shipping system and accessing shipping materials, and so much more, Add A Shop and Point 2 Ship are a one-stop for anyone looking for solutions.

Add A Shop, like other Sandhills services, connects buyers and sellers worldwide. A clear, concise dashboard shows each customer order, when it was ordered, when it shipped, payment status, and more. Because Add A Shop services are all available online through cloud data, no software is needed, and all services can be accessed 24/7 on your computer or mobile device, whether you are at home or at the office. Add A Shop is different from other e-commerce services in that it builds an online store to fit with your existing website for free—no setup fee, contract, monthly fees, maintenance fees, or any other hidden charges.

Easily accessed through the Add A Shop dashboard, Point2Ship services take the guesswork out of organizing a shipping system when it is time to get your goods to your customers. Point2Ship offers a variety of options for packaging materials, and spurred by unique circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, curbside pickup has even been integrated into the Point2Ship system as an option for customers.

With a Sandhills account and an Add A Shop online store, you have free access to several other Sandhills marketplaces to put your items in front of many more potential buyers. Point2Ship services ensure you will always be able to get your products to your new customers, whether they find you online or in the local directory!

What is E-Commerce?

E-commerce is the new face of business in a changing climate. Unusual times have necessitated innovation and creativity with the way business is conducted. People expect to be able to access everything online anymore; with current social distancing restrictions, this expectation has become a need. E-commerce ensures a business is fully accessible online such that customers and clients are able to purchase products and services readily through a user-friendly interface.

How do Add A Shop and Point2Ship solve my E-Commerce problems?

Add A Shop and Point2Ship offer an easy—and free—solution that any business owner can access today. A business owner with little to no experience running an effective website and selling products and services online can have an effective website up and running in little time. Customers can easily purchase through the website and process payments, and products can be shipped easily with the help of Point2Ship. Add A Shop and Point2Ship take on the load of e-commerce so business owners can focus on what they do best and continue growing their businesses.

How do I accept payments through Add A Shop?

In addition to Point2Ship, Add A Shop is integrated with a variety of Sandhills services such as CurrencyPay that provide essential services. CurrencyPay is a payment processing system that allows you to process large- and small-ticket transactions with ease through multiple payment methods such as credit, debit, and ACH in addition to flexible financing at the point of sale for larger-ticket items.

How do I start today?

It’s simple! Visit us online at addashop.com to set up your free, first-rate website today and you will readily be able to access services to help you with payment, shipping, and more. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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This is the first-ever Employing Lincoln feature in Strictly Business, and it sure came at an interesting time. We’ve been excited about the launch of this feature for almost a year but waited to work it into our editorial calendar at the most optimal time of year, keeping it spaced out from our Supporting Nonprofits and Joining Organizations features. However, when we slated this feature to run in the May issue, we could have never predicted the state our economy would be in as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.

For a minute, we considered pulling the feature and waiting for the next scheduled feature issue (November 2020). However, we decided to move forward with it. The reason being that, while there are many businesses that have been forced to layoff wonderful employees or, at the very least, pause their hiring efforts, there are also still companies recruiting during this time—and even more so in some cases. Plus, with the unemployment rate rising by the day, this is a good time for companies that are still hiring to showcase their team culture, benefits, company values, available Custom Cooling & Heating, Inc. is a family-owned, small business that has been serving Lincoln and the surrounding communities since 1982.

Ownership has a deep-rooted work ethic that permeates throughout the staff. Our employees are held to a high standard which allows them to manage their own jobsites, work orders, and tasks. The longevity of our employed staff is a constant reminder of how much our employees enjoy working at Custom Cooling & Heating. Yearly, employee bonuses and trips are one way that our staff is rewarded for their loyalty and dedication. Custom Cooling & Heating also offers competitive wages, health, dental, short and long term disability coverage, and matching for retirement savings. While work is important, Custom Cooling & Heating allows each team member to make their family and personal life their first priority.

Learn more about a career with Custom Cooling & Heating, Inc. by visiting www.customcooling.net or call the office at (402) 489-9227.

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positions, etc. to an audience of skilled workers looking for the next step in their career path. We are also very optimistic that, sooner rather than later, things will regain a sense of normalcy and the business community will pick up its pace again.

At Strictly Business, we truly believe that Lincoln is a wonderful place to live, WORK, and play. We are honored to partner with so many amazing employers, and we are proud to tell you a little bit about a few of them in this feature. Whether you have recently found yourself “between jobs” or you’re curious about pursuing a new passion, we encourage you to read through the following write-ups to learn about employment opportunities at some amazing local companies. In addition, if you are currently with a company that is looking to add people to your team, please reach out to Strictly Business about participating in our next employment feature! Though we know budgets and resources are tighter than ever, we truly believe that companies that continue to promote their values during this time will come out on top.

TELCOR is excited to celebrate its 25th year in business.

Founded in 1995, TELCOR is an innovative company providing healthcare software and service solutions to more than 2,600 hospitals and laboratories across the United States and Canada.

With 200 people, all located in Lincoln, TELCOR is proud of its strong culture of integrity, innovation, and teamwork. TELCOR has seen dynamic growth over the last two years as it expands into new services and is always looking for authentic, hard-working people to join its team. TELCOR offers a unique opportunity to build a career.

For project management, software, and billing professionals, you’ll find a place to use your healthcare experience outside of the traditional healthcare setting. The casual, open office environment encourages collaboration allowing everyone to be part of something that has an impact on people’s lives.

For information on how to join the TELCOR team, visit telcor.com or call (402) 489-1207. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Don’t Panic Labs is transforming the software development ecosystem through engineering-centered software development and continuing education.

When it comes to building software products, Don’t Panic Labs engineers, architects, and user experience designers create solutions that withstand the largest constant in the software world: change.

Local companies level up their software development staff with Don’t Panic Labs’ educational classes and programs. Their Software Design and Development Clinic shows developers how to be more productive and effective. To address our area’s tech talent shortage, Don’t Panic Labs founded the Nebraska Dev Lab in partnership with Doane University. This 12-month program is designed for individuals who have no programming experience but desire to work in the software development industry.

Companies of all sizes partner with Don’t Panic Labs to make their innovative ideas a reality and grow their teams’ development prowess.

Visit dontpaniclabs.com for more information.

CFO Systems is a nationwide firm founded in 2005 to provide practical, experienced financial and human resources leadership to middle-market companies.

Our vision is to be a collaborative partner who helps our client companies grow to their full potential.

The team is comprised of CFOs, controllers, audit directors, finance managers, senior accountants, and human resource experts. Our team has over 1,400 years of experience in numerous multiple industries in a variety of roles. This depth of knowledge, education, and experience provides our clients with access to reliable experts who provide objective leadership, strategy, and creativity without the expense of a full-time executive.

CFO Systems was named on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing companies for four consecutive years. We operate nationwide, with a heavy presence in the Midwest, with teams in Omaha, Lincoln, Denver, Des Moines, and Kansas City. Learn more about working at CFO Systems online at www.CFOSystemsLLC.com or contact (402) 884-0066 / office@CFOSystemsLLC.com.

Luxury Landscape is a young company, but not new to Lincoln or to landscaping. Jackie Lienemann and Ken Svoboda launched Luxury Landscape in October of 2018, combining Ken’s 40+ years in landscaping with Jackie’s leadership experience as a rehab director.

Luxury Landscape has a family vibe with the owners and the crew. We are all very professional, but also like to have fun when working on projects.

Each crew member gets to pick a radio station of their choice each day! We also give our crew “Free Food Friday” once a month during which we pick up the lunch tab and then we all sit down as a crew to eat, tell stories, and joke around, all while supporting a local business!

In addition, we have “Luxury Olympics” in the making where we’ll be hosting a family day and have lots of fun games to participate in such as wheelbarrow races, fastest to dig a hole, etc.!

We feel that our approach to how we treat our crew contributes to the longevity of their career. We don’t stand over our guys cracking a whip. We encourage them to participate in the designs of our projects.

It’s amazing to see everyone’s creative sideshow and it also gives them a sense of ownership.

Learn more about starting a career with Luxury Landscape by going to www.luxurylandscape-llc.com or contact (402) 430-9430 / luxurylandscape.ne@gmail.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

At CEDARS, we recognize the value of everyone’s contributions in helping c hildren find safe and enduring family relationships.

The talent, passion, and dedication that each employee and foster parent brings to our efforts increases their ability to succeed.

CEDARS is an organization where employees find a supportive and growth-oriented work culture, professionals can come and find their fit, and future leaders can learn from the best in the industry.

“I love working with children and families,” says CEDARS employee Tia Scheel. “CEDARS has been great and it’s really easy for me to empathize with youth and families. I always come into work thinking, how can I help these kids be more successful than yesterday.”

If you share our commitment to helping children and building stronger families, you may find that CEDARS is the right place for you as an employee or foster parent.

View all current job openings, learn about fostering opportunities, and sign up for our careers newsletter at www.cedarskids.org.

Weathercraft Co. of Lincoln began in 1969 by William D Livengood (Bill Sr.).

Weathercraft is currently managed by William E Livengood (Bill Jr.), who started with the company in 1976. We specialize in re-roofing and service work on commercial roofs, including churches, educational institutions, and others. We also do new construction. We focus on serving our customers in the same way we would want for ourselves, with honesty and integrity, and a dedication to quality. Our motto from the beginning has been “Above All A Good Roof.”

We are looking for more quality people to join our team and family. We offer paid vacations, paid holidays, a 401k plan, and health insurance with company participation. We currently have many employees with over 10 years of service, some with 40 years.

We have been blessed with people who take serious doing the job with a higher standard of quality and pride. We are a family owned and operated company that is interested and cares for our people. Learn more about careers at Weathercraft online at www. weathercraftlincoln.com or call (402) 435-3567.

Founded over 40 years ago, Sandhills Global began with seven employees in a blacksmith shop. The company has grown immensely since then, and today Sandhills’ headquarters are situated on a sprawling 68-acre campus in Lincoln, Nebraska, with over a dozen additional offices serving regions worldwide. The company currently employs roughly 1,400 people in sales, marketing, IT, web development, graphic design, and journalism, among other fields.

Sandhills’ primary business is connecting buyers and sellers of construction equipment, farm machinery, trucks, trailers, and aircraft through industry-leading websites and print publications with a global reach. Sandhills complements its core brands—including Machinery Trader, Truck Paper, TractorHouse, Controller, and AuctionTime— with products and services that help all kinds of businesses thrive. In addition to hosting over 7,000 websites, Sandhills offers custom web design, equipment valuation, financial services, heavy equipment shipping, and much more.

For information about careers, visit www.sandhills.jobs, call (402) 479-2181, or email human-resources@sandhills.com.

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Kingery Construction Co. realizes that most job seekers are looking for a career not just a job. We pride ourselves as the company that can offer just that. For more than 96 years, we have built a wide variety of commercial construction projects for education, medical, religious, commercial, governmental, industrial, and private owners. We are also honored to have been involved in building several iconic landmarks and are proud to have developed relationships with owners and architects, which spans decades. We are a company you can grow with as we build on.

Kingery Construction Co. offers construction employment for the following opportunities within our company: carpenter, carpenter foreman, assistant superintendent, site superintendent, and project manager.

We look forward to speaking with candidates about the possibility of utilizing the skills they have worked so hard to achieve during their time in school or through experience on jobsites. Please contact us today at www.kccobuilders.com or at (402) 465-4400.

This year, McGill Restoration is celebrating its 35th year in business thanks to our dedicated team of craftsmen.

Knowledge is one of our core values and we believe that training ensures that our employees learn and grow as individuals, tradesmen, and as members of our community. Our field employees are offered internally developed programs, such as our Foreman-in-Training Program (FIT), specialty equipment operator training, and on-the-job training to learn new skills, which will advance them within our trade. In addition to internal training opportunities, we have committed significant resources to external training including leadership training, OSHA courses, and other professional designations. We also encourage training and education for our office, administrative, and shop personnel. To retain our best talent, we’re always looking for ways to continue elevating their abilities! Having been named to the Inc. 5000’s fastest growing companies list four consecutive years, we take pride keeping our employees busy year-round.

To learn more about careers with McGill Restoration, visit www. mcgillrestoration.com or call (402) 558-7989.

With more than 1,000 employees in instructional, administrative, professional, a n d s e r v i c e p o s i t i o n s, Southeast Community College (SCC) offers many employment opportunities in Southeast Nebraska.

SCC has three Campuses in Beatrice, Lincoln, and Milford, in addition to the six Learning Centers in Falls City, Hebron, Nebraska City, Plattsmouth, Wahoo, and York.

SCC is committed to maintaining a workplace culture focused on emotional intelligence, resiliency, and respect. College employees are part of a team valuing input and transparent communication in order to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for all individuals.

“We actively recruit for the best, and our work environment, mission, and compensation attract a great quality of candidate,” said Bruce Tangeman, VP of human resources at SCC. “Although a large-scale organization, the variety of our campuses and geographic diversity allows for individuals to experience a more personal, albeit a smaller company environment.”

For employment opportunities at Southeast Community College, visit southeast.peopleadmin.com.

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Without great employees, West Gate Bank® would be just another bank. If you are interested in pursuing a rewarding career where your skills and passions can benefit team members and customers, consider joining us at West Gate Bank. Whether you are looking for a new challenge or are ready to advance your talents in a different way, we encourage you to apply for a position that fits your goals. We offer full-time positions, part-time positions with flexible schedules, on-the-job training, a friendly work environment, and tuition reimbursement for employees working more than 20 hours per week. See westgate.bank for details.

Access Family Medicine is Lincoln’s first Direct Primary Care (DPC) clinic with a membershipbased heal th care model. We are working diligently to change the face of primary care in today’s world, returning to a nearly lost idea.

Our mission is to provide tailored care around the patient, giving them more access to their physician, without the hassles of a traditional medical practice. It is our pursuit to create the most individualized care imaginable, with a focus on service and value. Our goals at Access Family Medicine is to create RELATIONSHIPS with our clients, provide ACCESS to their physician all the while lowering their healthcare COSTS. Dr. Todd Johnson, DO and Krystal Jackson, PA-C are the providers in our fast-paced environment. More information about how our office operates is available on our website at accessdpc.com.

At ALLO (www.allocommunications.com), we believe people are our biggest asset.

Our team brings the ALLO mission to life because as local members of each community, we live, work, play, and volunteer right here with you. We’re passionate about being involved and contributing to the success and progress of each of our fiberhoods. We pursue these passions because ALLO leaders have created a workplace where folks are valued, ideas are heard, and work-life balance is an everyday practice.

ALLO customers reap the benefits of our customer-focused, employeefocused, PEOPLE-focused culture every day. When we talk about who we are as a company, we talk about our team. Sure, our technology is next-level and our internet is crazy-fast, but it’s the people who make the difference. When you meet the people of ALLO, hear about our vision for a brighter, more connected future, and chat with our genuinely caring team, there’s just no comparison. Contact Lnordhausen@ allophone.net / (402) 480-6550 to learn more.

INSPRO is a leading national independent risk management and benefits agency. Devoted to building relationships, we serve our clients with a collaborative approach to risk management through insurance, bonding, employee benefits, and human resources guidance. Our advisors provide valuable insights and manage program needs while consistently delivering thoughtful recommendations.

We are specialists in Safety and Loss Control with years of experience and diverse knowledge to carefully consider all of your organization’s needs. From family homes to multi-state business operations, we dedicate ourselves to protecting clients’ livelihoods and life’s work by being a single source for risk management solutions.

A career in insurance means sales, right? There is much more to a successful insurance company than sales. Sure, it keeps the lights on, but what keeps the business running day-to-day? Our support people—and we have some of the best out there...that could be you, too!

For more information about careers with INSPRO, visit www.insproins.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

RESPONDING TO COVID-19:

HOW THE PANDEMIC HAS CHANGED US

The month of April took our country to places none of us could have anticipated. Collectively, we’ve witnessed trials we might have dismissed at one time with “that could never happen”—yet these things have happened, and we continue on, knowing well that more unknowns lie ahead of us. Living through the evolution of COVID-19 has brought a change to the rhythm of daily life. Where we used to commute, we now set up office in our spare rooms or at the kitchen table. Where we used to eat out with friends every Friday night, we now stay home and cook from the pantry and watch movies. Where we used to say we were invincible, we now know we are not.

One question that becomes more and more pressing as this global situation unfolds is just how current events will impact the future. What will our new normal be in six months, or one year from now? Will the effects of social distancing become permanently imprinted on society, so much so that we experience a sustained sense of lost connection from those around us? Will once bustling office spaces remain quiet as some choose to continue working from home? Will technology increasingly replace our tangible experience with the world?

Our staff here at Strictly Business feels the weight of these questions and the importance of the answers we will give to them in the coming days. As daunting as the future may seem at times, we also see that many good things have come from the changes we’ve had to make in recent weeks. In suffering a loss of certain things we once enjoyed, we’ve also been blessed with other things that once seemed to elude us. We’ve changed in good ways, too.

In short, we’ve found the priceless gifts of human connection, creativity, and ingenuity that come from living through hard times.

We now find ourselves spending more time with family, making a priority of health and wellness, taking thoughtful spiritual inventory of our lives, living more frugally, and overall benefitting from the effects of a simpler lifestyle.

We’ve read more books, said more sincere prayers, spent more #PrintProudDigitalSmart

time exercising at home, picked up hobbies we’d nearly forgotten, and dusted off the old guitar in the corner. In short, we’ve found the priceless gifts of human connection, creativity, and ingenuity that come from living through hard times. This experience has begun to clear the fog of our previously overly-busy lives and given us insight into some of the ways we might benefit moving forward. Our hope is that we can remember what we’re learning and use this experience as a catalyst for positive change and growth. In that spirit of hope, we’d like to share a snapshot of the changes we’re already witnessing in our community as well as some suggestions for continued improvement for the future.

Services Adapted to Fit the Times At the business level, we have witnessed massive efforts to reconsider, reorganize, and restructure the way we do business and how we offer ser vices to our customers and clients in order to continue helping people during challenging and unusual circumstances. These changes have made us uncomfortable at times— change is never easy—while also helping us stay connected with others, as the discomfort of change is one thing we all have in common right now. We’ve been impressed by the efforts of businesses to make sacrifices of time, funds, and other resources in order to continue providing their valued services and products to the public. Our hearts go out to the staff and personnel at hospitals, clinics, assisted living communities, and other businesses providing life-giving services such as home health care as well as those who continue to provide us with food, stock and run our grocery markets, pickup our trash for us, deliver our mail, protect our communities, and provide a host of other vital services, even at the risk of their own health.

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We’ve been touched to hear stories of healthcare and assisted living communities that have been forced to close their doors to visitors as a safety measure. The staff at these communities have since doubled their efforts to provide cheer, comfort, and entertainment to their residents, even as they work overtime to do whatever is necessary to keep these residents safe. What further impresses us is how the public has also responded to these situations. Our social media feeds have been graced by stories of people and businesses coming together to meet the shortage of supplies such as N95 masks. Many are having to improvise and use handmade materials to get by. Tabitha has received an outpour of support from various groups and famlies. They shared photos of Betsy Strain, the wife of Tabitha Board Member Bill Strain, sewing nursing gowns for healthcare workers. Many others have since put their sewing skills to use to provide the nonprofit with masks and gowns. Even though closed for business, Sue’s Nails & Spa generously sewed and donated 220 fabric face masks for use at Tabitha. In addition, Super Saver Foods donated 800+ paper bags for Tabitha’s home health and hospice team to transport their face masks, gowns, and supplies. Lowe’s Home Improvement also donated containers and lids to Tabitha to help keep Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) safe. The amazing staff at Tabitha is grateful as they work tirelessly to guard seniors— wherever they call home—against the coronavirus.

Bridge to Better Living is doing all possible to help We are encouraged to during the COVID-19 crisis see friends and families as well. Transition Consultants socializing with their senior Jolee Urbanovsky and Margaret Burnham have loved ones in unique ways. been delivering Tabitha Meals on Wheels to seniors across the community. Access to proper nutrition is often one of the last factors allowing seniors and those with disabilities to remain safely at home. Much care is being taken to continue this service while adhering to health and safty guidelines.

The Bridge to Better Living staff has also participated in a series of other community services such as making face masks, donating blood, and contacting seniors who are isolated.

Days are surely appearing longer for residents in senior living communities as normal activies have been suspended and visitors are not allowed. While staying physically safe, we also have to be aware of the negative mental effects of social distancing. We are encouraged to see friends and families socializing with their senior loved ones in unique ways. Our timelines are filled with photos of friends and family members lined up outside of senior communities holding signs expressing their love while seniors press their faces to the glass inside—“window visits” they call them—then blow kisses and wipe away tears.

Care Consultants for the Aging shared five tips on their Facebook page on how to help a lonely, elderly loved one, encouraging people to reach out to seniors even as we’re all keeping our distance to stay safe: 1. Show that you are available 2. Ask how they feel 3. Be dependable 4. Help them discover new ways to stay in touch 5. Ask other people for help

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Hillcrest Health Services started a Pen Pal Program to invite the public to email encouraging letters, artwork, photos, stories, etc. to letters@hillcresthealth.com. Recreation teams at the Hillcrest communities in Douglas, Sarpy, and Lancaster counties share the letters with residents and assist them in responding to their new pen pals.

“The idea came about when family members at Hillcrest Millard, our post-acute rehab and long-term care community in Omaha, began taping signs to their loved ones’ windows and ‘visiting’ on the phone with their loved ones from outside,” explained Liz Stratman, Director of Communications for Hillcrest Health Services. “Since launching the program on March 18, we’ve received more than 400 emails containing everything from encouraging notes to YouTube videos individuals have recorded for residents to beautiful drawings and other artwork.”

Any small way to bring a little joy into the lives of our seniors right now is so important to their well-being. Sumner Place Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation told us how residents received fresh flowers in their rooms from Hy-Vee to bring a little cheer to gloomy days. Sumner Place also shared how sidewalks outside of their facility has been decorated with bright chalk in expressions of appreciation and encouragement for the selfless caregivers to continue on with their work.

The threat that the current pandemic poses to those living and working in nursing homes and assisted living is unnerving, but there is a need to focus on the positives happening. One story from The Woodlands at Hillcrest told of how they strengthened and sustained their staff through a long week by hosting a spirit week with days such as Beach Day, Western Day, and Crazy Hair Day to bring some fun and variety to their routines. The staff took pictures to post on social media, and their gestures boosted morale.

In an effort to provide support to caregivers who might otherwise be overlooked amidst everything else going on during the crisis, Home Care Partners of Nebraska recently offered a free podcast with information to help caregivers find the balance between work, kids, and taking care of aging parents. Home Care Partners has also made efforts to both increase safety measures with their own staff to protect patients as well as educating the public on safety measures through efforts such as a free tutorial on how to make your own face mask. To aid seniors in getting through this crisis, they’ve donated hundreds of crossword puzzles, adult coloring books, Sudoku, trivia, and stress balls to patients in Lincoln rehab facilities to keep them engaged along with assisting seniors and their families in a variety of other ways.

Many healthcare providers found in recent weeks that new methods are needed to reach patients in order to limit exposure, and telehealth has quickly become a household word. Beyond Vision LNK acted proactively as the first practice in Lincoln to offer teleoptometry virtual visits along with providing ICare Home and OCT technology to patients so that they can continue to serve their patients while keeping them safe.

Compassionate and ingenious efforts to serve those in need haven’t stopped with the healthcare and senior living communities.

Leadership Harbor stepped up to the challenge by offering a relevant service to families who are spending long hours at home.

They are now providing online parenting sessions and live calls for parents to ask questions, brainstorm with other parents, and find support during the COVID-19 crisis. They’ve also offered a Mastermind Group on “Leading in Crisis” for adults and youth, as well as coaching/thinking partner services—one-on-one or in groups of three to five—to help people refocus and begin taking next steps with their lives and businesses.

9Round Fitness also looked to the needs of people confined to home by taking their workout services online through livestreamed #PrintProudDigitalSmart

workouts. Their loyal regulars were able to continue on with their healthy exercise habits and maintain a sense of balance and normal life. Capital City Fitness & Performance continued serving current and new patrons online as well through free “Get After It!” coaching sessions as a solution for at-home fitness with a dose of motivation and accountability. They also have upped their game by offering even more daily workouts through ZOOM than they were offering in person before the crisis struck, with availability Monday through Friday.

Center Sphere took the opportunity to continue serving its members in new ways, in spite of social distancing. Their ZOOM meet-up, “Master the Virtual Experience,” has allowed professionals to continue connecting and networking with others so they don’t feel cut off as they do their part to responsibly keep distance from others while still supporting each others’ businesses.

Sandhills Global teamed up with LIBA and the Nebraska Retail Federation to develop an online platform for local business owners to sell gift cards or gift certificates to help infuse cash into their businesses through the website NebraskaBuyLocal.com. The website acts as a streamlined, centralized location that makes it simple for people to offer support to local businesses.

JetSplash also impressed us in their response to the situation in the community when they lowered their car wash prices and membership rates and eliminated services such as door jamb cleanings and the dash towel exchange program to help keep people safe. We were uplifted when we saw JetSplash spreading upbeat messages of hope through hashtags on their Facebook page, such as #KeepOnShining and #SplashesOfJoy. The #SplashesOfJoy hashtag was used in connection with one particular gesture that especially affected us, as JetSplash thanked professionals on the frontlines of the COVID-19 health crisis and also expressed a desire to support local businesses affected by the situation. As a gesture of goodness, JetSplash announced they had purchased $50 gift cards from various Lincolnarea restaurants and asked the public to nominate a doctor, nurse, hospital/medical staff, medical researcher, police officer, firefighter, or paramedic by tagging them in the comments. They then drew five random winners throughout the month of April and sent them a $50 gift card. “We hope our efforts will spread some small splashes of joy in these otherwise challenging times,” they posted on their Facebook page, followed by, “#SplashesofJoy.” When we saw this act of kindness over social media, we stood a little taller and found a little more strength to continue on. Suddenly, social media has become a platform for actually reaching out to others rather than a tool for disconnecting and hiding behind a screen. We were encouraged.

Gestures of Kindness and Support There were others in addition to JetSplash who touched us with their acts of kindness.

Right Foot Forward Fitness also held a giveaway, offering gift cards from Raising Cane’s to people who posted pictures showing how they were staying active while practicing social distancing; the gesture gave a boost to people cooped up at home while also offering support to a local business.

Right Foot Forward has also begun offering online workouts for their members, sending a new full workout every morning at 5 a.m. to ensure people stay healthy and engaged. Roto-Rooter gave gift cards for local restaurants to their staff as a gesture of appreciation and a way to support local businesses. Erika Jensen, owner of The #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Chocolate Season, held a gift card giveaway for businesses and individuals who “could use a hug,” after a friend purchased four $25 gift cards to the restaurant and asked Erica to give them away.

The recipients were chosen after people nominated candidates on Facebook and Instagram and explained “why they are so special!”

Local internet providers blew us away with their generosity in offering a variety of free services to support local businesses and families.

ALLO announced that it would offer 50 megabitsper-second internet service free for 60 days to any We heard story after story customers without current of construction companies internet service from ALLO donating N95 masks to or another provider. At support healthcare workers ALLO’s Lincoln office and in their shortage of supplies. the Haymarket Cube, they opened up community hotspots so people can stay in their vehicles and practice social distancing while still connecting to reliable fiber internet. ALLO also announced that they would be eliminating late fees and penalties for households affected by COVID-19, waiving service modification fees for businesses and residences for the next 60 days, and increasing weekend and evening installation times to accommodate new customer demand.

Kinetic by Windstream launched a free 90-day trial (if ordered by June 30) of its OfficeSuite UC® and HD Meeting services and video conferencing to all new and existing customers in an effort to support businesses implementing new remote work-from-home environments.

The service came at a time of great need, as teams suddenly found themselves unable to meet in their usual way, and popular platforms such as ZOOM became overloaded by a sudden surge in users.

We witnessed other gestures of kindness as well. We heard story after story of construction companies donating N95 masks to support healthcare workers in their shortage of supplies. Kingery Construction shared over social media that they were donating boxes of N95 masks to local healthcare workers; Sampson Construction offered nearly 600 N95 respirator masks with particulate filters to healthcare workers; and McGill Restoration led the way in collecting money to purchase KN95 respirators to provide to medical facilities across the nation, with a goal of donating 1 million masks.

In the education sphere, we saw great gestures of kindness and generosity as chefs and staff from Southeast Community College at the Great Plains Culinary Institute announced they would provide four free meals each week for financially insecure individuals categorized as high risk by the CDC—individuals who had self-quarantined out of necessity to protect themselves. The college also announced the SCC COVID-19 Student Emergency Fund created by the Southeast Community College Educational Foundation to support SCC students and their families in need of emergency funds as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. The donations are being used to support students struggling with hunger, lack of childcare, inability to pay for medical services, housing, and any other necessary bills such as electricity and heat. The college’s Health Sciences program also donated hundreds of medical supplies to area hospitals, including gloves, masks, thermometers, and lab coats.

CBD American Shaman of Lincoln donated 16 gallons of hospital grade hand sanitizer to the Lincoln Fire Department and seven gallons to the Lincoln Police Department. American Shaman HQ full on stepped it up and turned one of their production lines to bottle hand wash to help communities fill the void. Each of the three CBD American Shaman locations in Lincoln was able to give out 100 free bottles of hand wash with a purchase. The main ingredient in CBD’s hand wash is Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) which is used in hospitals as a disinfectant and a cleaner as well as for cleaning wounds—a very amazing product to have nearby during this time!

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Union Bank & Trust really strengthened our faith in humanity when they helped fund an emergency effort to assist a stranded youth group on a mission trip to Honduras in returning safely back home to the United States; the youth group arrived on U.S. soil only 48 hours before the Honduran government grounded all flights and sealed off the country. Lincoln Federal Savings Bank sent an email to their families and employees calling for donations for local food pantries and received nearly $500 in donations in response to a single email. They then encouraged the community to find other ways to support community members in need.

or through generous donations to the community or other acts of kindness, it is also needed through calm, sound guidance and information that helps us get our bearings and formulate a plan for moving forward.

With an eye on the evolving needs of people in the community, West Gate Bank took the initiative to provide a helpful resource to ease a challenging transition. They shared a list of helpful tips online for those now working from home, which they displayed in a memorable infographic, and they also warned against scammers who are leveraging the COVID-19 pandemic to steal money, personal information, or both.

As we press on toward what we hope is the closing of a difficult period in history, it would benefit us to make a record of where we’ve been and what we’ve learned from all of this. We hope to soon see people returning to normal life—embracing friends and holding social gatherings, taking vacations, enjoying dinner at favorite restaurants, and shopping at favorite stores.

While we long for this return of life as we knew it, we also hope we won’t discard all of the changes we’ve made in recent weeks.

A special thanks goes out to all of our local banks and their teams who have put in countless of extra hours working with their business customers to process their Paycheck Protection Program loan applications through the SBA for some much needed funding during this time. We appreciate the work they are doing to keep our local businesses alive.

Re s o u r c e s a n d E d u c a t i o n fo r Uncharted Waters West Gate Bank was not the only institution that responded to a need for new information and educational resources tailored to an unprecedented time in history. Berry Law also offered a resource for working remotely through an educational video in which they discussed the importance of schedule and routine in staying productive, along with some suggestions for a possible routine outline. For a nation suddenly overturned by the closing of offices and a flood of people working from home, the discussion of how to create and stick to a strong routine is timely and relevant.

UNICO Group also offered education pertinent to the COVID-19 crisis by organizing a webinar hosted

by ThinkHR addressing the most common HR questions and concerns surrounding COVID-19. To further serve the community, UNICO hosted an additional webinar on “Compensability of the Coronavirus and Related Employment Considerations.” These resources provided a steadying stream of clarity and sound information during a time when many people were overwhelmed with fearful and less-than-helpful messages.

North Risk Partners shared a resource that addresses a variety of needs and issues surrounding COVID-19. The COVID-19 Resource Center, powered by Zywave, contains resources such as compliance guides and employee communication templates developed by HR and legal experts, continually updated as the COVID-19 situation changes. North Risk Partners also has and will continue to offer client webinars on the updates during this time. These webinars have included topics such as “Claim Your COVID-19 Financial Relief,” “COVID-19 Law Exemptions & More,” and “COVID-19 Employer Q&As.” Others in the community have also responded with helpful tips, resources, and educational materials designed for navigating the COVID-19 crisis, much of which is being offered for free. While a steadying hand may be offered on the frontlines of healthcare 64 Strictly Business MAY 2020

An Improved Approach to Health and Life

We aren’t finished with this crisis just yet, and care is still needed in our approach to health and life. Will we ever take for granted again the ability to breathe clean, virus-free air? We hope not. Even as the virus continues to slow in the community, there are things we can do to improve the quality of our air today. Biggerstaff Plumbing Heating & Air recently shared information on an excellent product they offer— the Reme Halo® air purifier—that has been tested on viruses similar to COVID-19 and found to reduce microbials in the air as well as on surfaces. The purifier uses IAQ technology that increases ionized hydroperoxide output with an enhanced catalyst of zinc for faster purification rates. If you want to improve the air you breathe, you don’t have to wait until people are no longer quarantined!

Will we ever forget the panic that ensued in grocery stores as people cleared out stocks of toilet paper and bottled water? Again, we hope not. We hope that we can all learn from these experiences and make wise choices during crisis-free times so we don’t panic when troubles do come. Stock your pantries and your supplies little by little, all along the way, so you are always prepared. Opt for services that provide you a consistent supply of clean, good-tasting water through businesses such as Aqua Systems, rather than stocking up on bottled water and adding to landfills—and leave the bottled water for people who really need it.

Will we ever take for granted again the ability to stay calm and manage stress with ease? We hope not. Healthy practices and stress management should become a part of our everyday routines, if they aren’t already. If you’ve found yourself struggling these past few weeks to breathe deeply, stay calm, and practice healthy living, it could benefit you to keep a store of products on hand such as those offered by Emris International.

Whether you need to boost your immune system, supplement your intake of fruits and vegetables, get a good night’s sleep, or treat your skin to the care it deserves, Emris can aid you in healthy living practices.

Living through the COVID-19 crisis has affected all of us in difficult ways.

Even so, the difficulties have opened doors for us to appreciate the good things we still have and to make improved choices for tomorrow so we live better lives in the future.

We know there are so many other examples of local businesses and individuals stepping up during this time, and we wish we could have highlighted them all. If the coronavirus has taught us one thing, it’s that we are living amongst heroes—ordinary men and women who are willing to sacrifice their time, money, and resources for the sake of others, and it’s done with love and compassion.

We may not be invincible, but we sure are strong as a community.

We look forward to hearing about other acts of kindness and unique ways businesses are responding to the pandemic. Let’s continue to face the uncertainties the best way we know how: together. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Peace of Mind...

(402) 318-3737

During Uncertain Times.® How nice does a little peace of mind sound right now? A good place to start is a deep clean and sanitization of your home. If your home or property is in need of a proactive clean in response to the coronavirus outbreak, enlist the experts at Delta Restoration Services® of Lincoln and Southeast Nebraska.

For more than 12 years, Delta Restoration has been committed to providing their customers with a healthy home and workplace. As we all adjust our lives during the current flu season and COVID-19 situation, the local Delta team is taking steps to ensure that their services are being delivered in the healthiest manner to help you clean your home and protect your family.

• Delta Restoration’s professional technicians are trained to take special precautions to ensure a healthier environment including wearing personal protective equipment (i.e., disposable gloves, shoe covers, and masks when appropriate), regularly washing hands, minimizing physical interactions, and following all the other recommended actions put in place by the CDC. • All Delta locations are utilizing a hospital-grade EPA-approved disinfectant on every project they work on. This important service can provide a healthier environment at the completion of a mitigation project and an extra layer of safety when dealing with cleanup of a water or fire damage project.

Some of the nation’s top property management companies and health care facilities trust Delta to help them maintain a healthier environment for their employees and customers.

Being Prepared for Water Damage While many of us are fixated on the COVID-19 pandemic, there is also another threat in our midst: inclement weather. Some of you may be having flashbacks or one-year-ago notifications from Snapchat and Facebook of the major flooding from 2019... and it was last May that we had a confirmed tornado touchdown in Lincoln. Since spring brings the highest risk of inclement weather to the Midwest, it’s important for us to be prepared in the event of flooding and ensuing water damage.

Water damage can also be a result from faulty, worn-down service lines in your home such as plumbing fixtures, including your washing machine and refrigerator. Over time, the maintenance of these lines can become the furthest thing from your mind. In those cases, flooding is just a matter of time.

Delta Restoration Services® of Lincoln and Southeast Nebraska wants you to always be prepared but the truth is, disasters happen. It’s the nature of life, as we have been reminded of a little extra lately on a national scale. The only thing that makes

these times a little less stressful is knowing who to call and trusting they are going to take care of your needs.

If you are experiencing a water damage emergency, don’t torture yourself with all the work, call the experts at Delta Restoration.

Delta Restoration’s Water Remediation Services • 24/7 Emergency Water Damage Response • Industry-Certified water damage mitigation technicians • State-of-the-art testing equipment including digital FLIR thermal infrared imaging • Advanced dying equipment • Water damage content restoration • Mold remediation and restoration • Full re-construction and restoration services after the dry-down process • Industry and insurance accepted estimates

Learn more online at deltalincolnsenebraska.com or call (402) 318-3737. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Severe Weather The Midwest is subject to a variety of types of severe weather and natural disasters. Most of us did not anticipate the severity of the heavy flooding that occurred last year and the tremendous damage it would cause. Some were perhaps more prepared than others, but likely we all had a bit of a wake-up call as the flooding became worse and worse. Those living and working in floodplain areas sustained thousands of dollars in damages to property and goods.

Heavy rains and flooding are not the only types of severe weather we experience in the Midwest. Recent weather alerts have warned of high winds and possible tornadoes. Hailstorms, heavy snow, and cold spells are also familiar to people in Nebraska and the surrounding region. Though there is little we can do to affect a change in severe weather, there is much we can do to prepare for potential catastrophes and educate ourselves on our options should such events occur.

HAIL OR WIND DAMAGE TO YOUR ROOF? Our experts will walk side-by-side with you through the process.

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402.345.9235 | info@loveourroof.com | LoveOurRoof.com

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Know Your Insurance Options Having insurance coverage of some type is a must, whether it be for your business, your vehicle, your own home, or the apartment you are currently renting. Insurance policies range in price and coverage, with options for just about any potential disaster a person could anticipate. Even with the array of options available, it can be easy to purchase only the necessary minimum to comply with applicable laws and regulations. Most insurance policy owners don’t have a good understanding of what is or isn’t covered under their policy until a crisis has unfolded and it’s too late to do anything different. Asking your agent to educate you on the specifics of your policy is important.

Home and auto insurance are necessary types of coverage that most people purchase automatically, but many may not realize that a more comprehensive insurance, such as flood insurance, is not included in most homeowner’s and renter’s insurance policies.

The Department of Homeland Security estimates that just one inch of flood water can cause more than $25,000 in damage to your home. Purchasing flood insurance can ensure your savings will be safe and that you’ll have adequate funds to pay for damages should you be subject to flooding.

M a t t h ew M o o r h e a d w i t h S h e l t e r Insurance shared his reasoning behind the importance of flood insurance.

“Whether for a home or business, flood insurance is vital for anyone who lives or works in areas where flooding may occur,” he said. “It can be easy to assume flooding will never occur at your home or your office, but it’s a chance you really don’t want to take. The costs of flood damage can be astronomical. For businesses that Matthew Moorhead experience flooding, flood insurance can Shelter Insurance be the difference between staying open or closing for good. Many business owners assume that if their business is not located in a floodplain, they do not need flood insurance. However, floods often occur in areas outside of floodplains. On the upside, if your business is not in a floodplain, your flood insurance premiums will likely be lower than they would be otherwise.”

Matthew shared common misconceptions many business owners have about coverage in their commercial policies.

“Often, business owners assume that their commercial policy will cover damage from a flood,” he said. “The reality is most will not. A commercial policy also will not cover damage to business vehicles, but those may be covered if you purchased a comprehensive plan for your business auto insurance. Another important thing to note is that flood insurance might cover mold damage, but only if you can prove the mold wasn’t there before #PrintProudDigitalSmart

the flood and you took reasonable actions to prevent it from forming after the flood. One of the most important things to note is that you need to plan ahead if you decide to buy flood insurance. There’s usually a 30-day waiting period after you buy flood insurance before your coverage actually begins. Most property and casualty insurance companies don’t offer flood insurance; however, a Shelter agent can answer any questions you may have about flood insurance and help you through the process of getting a quote through a flood insurance carrier.”

Whether you’re looking for flood insurance or another type of coverage, Shelter Insurance can educate you on your options and help you see the weak and strong points in your current coverage so you can better know how you should prepare for emergencies.

Another expert we talked to about insurance coverage is Frantz Antoine with Xcel Roofing. Something he emphasized is that, when it comes to dealing with insurance, you’re not going to be confident throughout the process unless you’re working with someone you can trust.

There are plenty of companies out there that won’t lose any sleep over taking advantage of homeowners for the sake of making a quick buck. It’s sad but true.

While any company can say they operate Frantz Antoine with integrity, Xcel Roofing lives it out.

Xcel Roofing They’ve been a trusted contractor and professional roofer in the local area since 1990, and they were even recognized by the Better Business Bureau as an Integrity Award winner.

If your roof or any part of your exterior has experienced hail or wind damage during a storm, your head is probably spinning with dollar signs. This doesn’t have to be a dreaded process, though.

Frantz has worked with countless insurance claims, so he knows exactly how to maximize the amount you’re due under the terms and conditions of your insurance policy.

“When it comes to storm damage, your insurance company will likely ask you to get 2–3 bids from roofers,” explained Frantz.

“In doing so, they aren’t necessarily focused on the quality of the company but rather the cheapest option. Everyone wants to spend less money, but you have to remember that you’re going to get what you pay for. Some companies will overlook problem areas during the inspection, including bad flashing (metal fixtures used to prevent leaks), old space decking, rotten wood, etc., just to end up hitting you with ‘surprise costs’ down the road. Or, they will simply do lazy work and cover up these problem areas during the repair.”

“My advice is to come to Xcel first because we’ll advocate on your behalf to get your storm damages inspected, approved, and repaired the right way,” Frantz added. “Residential or commercial, we’ll first meet with you to determine if your roof NEEDS to be replaced and if it CAN be replaced by insurance.

As storm specialists, we can evaluate if we’re dealing with strictly storm damage that can be covered, or if there are deeper issues that go beyond insurance claims. For those instances, we offer a variety of financing options so you don’t have to be overwhelmed with an aggressive up-front repair cost. Sometimes, a simple small payment seems much more manageable.”

Xcel Roofing is proud to work with two leading, nationally licensed and recognized sales financing companies for all your exterior project needs. With insurance deductibles rising, homeowners are looking at options for financing before making that final decision on their exterior repairs. Some of the plans offered through Xcel include: • A Deferred Payment Plan • Same as Cash Payment Plan #PrintProudDigitalSmart

• No interest, no payment for six months • Low monthly payments • Interest-free financing “Beware of ‘storm chasers’ and out-of-town roofers who don’t really care about your home, your family, or your community,” advised Frantz, who was born and raised right here in Lincoln.

“While plenty of companies can replace a hail-damaged roof or siding, you want to work with a contractor you can trust to do an outstanding, thorough job. We are local professionals who stand behind our work. Being a Platinum Preferred Contractor with Owens Corning, we offer you what most companies can’t: the industry’s biggest and best warranty. We earned that prestigious status so we can offer you the best in product, service, and workmanship warranties that you deserve.”

Take Preventative Measures While the Sky is Still Clear In addition to purchasing the right insurance policy, there are other preventative measures you can take to prepare for severe weather emergencies.

The key to safely outlasting severe weather lies in creating an emergency plan long before a storm rolls in. The National Weather Service recommends you lay out a safety plan for emergencies before a crisis strikes and practice it with everyone in your home at least twice a year, including young children so they know what to do in the event of an emergency if no adults are at home. Having a plan can ground you when an emergency actually occurs because you’ll be able to think directly to your outlined course of action instead of scrambling to come up with something on the spot.

Taking steps to prepare your physical surroundings can also give you strength and stability during a weather emergency. Advanced measures to protect your property can pay great dividends by saving you stress, frustration, and money.

We’ll get through this storm, together.

Windows and patio doors are critical components of your home. Window replacement is an essential service and we’re ready to help.

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Revolution Roof, an authorized Roof Maxx contractor, provides a product that can fortify your roof against coming storms, and at a very reasonable price.

We spoke to Revolution Roof Owner Jeremy Schafer to learn more about this incredible product.

“Roof Maxx is unlike anything that has come before it,” he said. “If your roof is starting to wear and you worry it may not be able to last through another heavy Jeremy Schafer storm but you don’t want to dish out the Revolution Roof money for a full roof replacement, Roof Maxx offers an affordable alternative that will strengthen and revitalize old, brittle shingles and make your roof like new again—and at a fraction of the cost of a roof replacement! Roof Maxx is the world’s first asphalt shingle rejuvenator, and it restores and extends the life of aging shingles by stopping de-granulation, re-igniting shingle seal tabs, and reviving the shingles’ performance. Through penetrating soy methyl ester oils, a roof’s flexibility, pliability, and waterproofing can be restored. Most aging shingles become stripped of their necessary petrochemical oils and granules until they are dry and brittle, but Roof Maxx’s revolutionary soy-fusion technology solves this problem. Roof Maxx can help your not-so-new roof function as though it is new so your home is storm ready.”

Whatever advance actions you take to prepare for weather emergencies, you will experience peace of mind knowing you’ve done your part to protect your property and get ready for the storms that may come your way.

Since these are such important considerations, we talked to another roofing contractor who has a keen understanding of the proactive measures that can be taken to extend the life of your

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roof. Terry Neemann with Neemann & Sons understands that adequate ventilation in your roof can help prevent moisture buildup which lowers the risk of rotting in the wood. This 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,” Terry said. “Proper ventilation, such as installing attic fans and vents, not Terry Neemann only help extend the life of your roof, but Neemann & Sons they can help with the heating, cooling, and energy costs in your home. Attic ventilation helps keep your roof young by ridding the area of excess moisture. Vents help ventilate the area to keep the roof protected. 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.”

Terry and Chris Neemann started their residential roofing company in 1981. Then, in 2018, they acquired Sprague Roofing Company to also offer the eastern Nebraska area commercial, industrial, low-slope roofing, and repair services. So, not only can Neemann & Sons provide top-notch residential roofing services, they can also ensure your business has adequate ventilation to expand its lifespan. In the event of a storm, they will diligently repair your roof so your business can continue its operation in a safe and comfortable environment.

Get Trustworthy Help in Response to Disasters Even with the best of safety plans in place, damage may still come to your house, shop, vehicles, or other property during a heavy

#PrintProudDigitalSmart

storm. It’s wise to know in advance who you can trust and look to for help in restoring buildings and repairing damages so you don’t have to waste any time figuring this out. This can also help you avoid scams and lesser-quality services offered by “storm chasers” and those who present themselves as trustworthy local businesses but are in actuality just trying to take advantage of people who are in the midst of a crisis.

Delta Restoration Services is one local restoration company that offers premium services with the benefit of patient, customer-focused attention. We talked to Owner Jeff Carstens about how they help people who have suffered water damage to their property from severe weather.

“We use the latest technologies to relieve the impact of water damage to your property,” he said. “Our emergency water damage restoration ser vices Jeff Carstens include water extraction and mitigation, Delta Restoration Services structural drying and dehumidification, complete structural restoration and repairs, hardwood floor drying, and leak and moisture detection through infrared technology.

“Water damage can cause numerous unexpected difficulties for your home or business,” Jeff added. “This is why it’s important to call for restoration services as soon as you are aware of an issue so we can not only address the current problem, but prevent additional problems from forming down the road, such as serious mold or structural failure.”

Heavy rain and thunderstorms don’t only result in water damage.

It may seem unlikely, but lighting has the potential to strike down and cause a fire at your home or business—not to mention the more common scenario of an electrical fire in the event of a storm due to downed power lines or flooding.

“Lighting doesn’t have to strike directly over your house to cause damage,” Jeff noted. “In fact, lightning from a storm up to 10 miles away can affect your house. Direct lightning certainly has a greater chance of causing a fire, but nearby lightning strikes can still cause electrical system issues. Even if your breaker box has a surge protector to protect your home against power surges, lightning can still enter your home through cable and telephone wires. Damage done to the electrical system could be a fire hazard waiting to happen.”

If a fire does breakout, Delta Restoration Services has specially trained fire repair experts standing by to help you through every aspect of your fire restoration project. Jeff made sure to warn us that even a small structure fire in your home or business can result in smoke that consists of toxic substances that cause serious health problems for people and even pets who ingest too much of them. This is why it’s so important to call on the professionals to take care of the situation with the proper equipment.

When you consider the health and safety of your family in the wake of a storm, only experiencing damage to the exterior of your home or business becomes kind of a best case scenario. A common problem people experience after a storm is scattered debris and obstructions on their property, such as trees that have fallen during the storm. Blue Ox Tree Service can remove dead trees or other obstructions caused by a storm. Their top priority is helping you be safe and Ed Lankas returning your property to an orderly, Blue Ox Tree Service beautiful state. Ed Lankas told us more: and Red Lion Roofing “When people find their property torn #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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up after a storm, they usually aren’t prepared to clean it all up themselves. We have the equipment, manpower, and experience to take care of this for you. When you work with Blue Ox, you are in good hands. You can rest knowing we’ll do the hard work you aren’t able to do on your own.”

Setting up tree removal service is a smart preventative measure you can take before storm season hits. It may be hard to say goodbye to your favorite, beautiful pine, but trees that are positioned too close to a home—or any building or vehicle—can be extremely dangerous.

“Keeping trees healthy, pruned, and structurally sound helps minimize accidents before the storm,” noted Ed. “Poorly maintained trees can become a problem, though. There are a few signs that you can check for to let you know if you need to do some trimming or complete removal, such as dead wood, weak branches, and tree decay. As licensed arborists, we know just how to prune and protect your trees to keep them alive and healthy. We also know when it is time to say goodbye to the stalwart guardian of your property. In instances where tree cutters are needed, our team can assess your tree and remove it with professional equipment to ensure you get your tree(s) removed without any damage to your property.”

Ed also operates Red Lion Roofing. If fallen debris or extreme winds have wreaked havoc on your siding, windows, or roof, Red Lion Roofing’s restoration services can make your home good as new again.

“We repair, replace, inspect, and maintain all types of residential and commercial roofing, siding, windows, and even gutters,” Ed informed us. “We pride ourselves in quick response times and affordable pricing. Red Lion Roofing is your trusted source for roofing services, as we do our part to ensure you are getting the highest-quality product and service you can’t find anywhere in the region. Call Red Lion Roofing today and speak to one of our window or siding specialists who can help you diagnose where you are in need of a window replacement or what options are available in terms of siding. We’ll help you build a quote and a solution that matches your budget, and more importantly, your needs.”

If you’ve experienced window damage after a heavy storm, it’s important to work with a trustworthy window company that has the customer’s best interest in mind. Gary Shunkwiler with Heartland of Nebraska Windows believes this wholeheartedly. His goal as a local business owner is to always give his customers the best in terms of quality, prices, and, of course, service. Through Heartland of Nebraska Windows, Gary and his team aim to make the process Gary Shunkwiler simple and clear for their customers so Heartland of that there is no confusion on price and the Nebraska Windows work to be done.

“We do not and will not ever pressure customers into purchasing any of our services or products,” Gary affirmed. “Our team has over 20 years of experience in the window industry to make sure customers are getting the best service and window care.”

Gary is a family man. He knows that storms can threaten the safety of our loved ones. Throughout his life, he has worked with many families needing repairs to their homes after severe weather strikes.

“Typically, when a homeowner has been hit by severe weather that has damaged their windows, they tend to be in ‘panic mode,’” he said. “Unfortunately, they will often just go with the first window company that walks through the door. It’s not uncommon for companies to take advantage of the homeowner’s situation #PrintProudDigitalSmart

and try to get as much as they can out of them, especially if the insurance company is paying the bill. Make sure to ask questions to determine the reasoning behind recommendations. Be firm on your stance to decline if you don’t want something.”

As far as working with insurance companies for window replacements goes, Heartland of Nebraska Windows goes the extra mile to talk with your insurance company to help you get what you want and need so you aren’t settling for a lesser quality product.

“We recommend choosing a high-quality vinyl window with a lifetime warranty on every part of the window,” Gary said. “As far as price goes, every window company sets their own pricing structure. Different companies also approach the installation process in different ways. The majority of companies install what is known as ‘pockets’ or ‘inserts.’ These simply sit on top of the existing window framing. The best and only true way to install replacement windows is to go all the way down to the original ‘rough opening,’ or down to the ‘studs,’ which is the process we use.

This way you can properly insulate and seal the window against air and water infiltration. You will also have more ‘glass space’ to look through and the windows look like they were original to when the house was constructed.”

Homes and buildings aren’t the only places at risk during a storm.

If your vehicle is exposed to the elements in a heavy hailstorm, chances are you will experience damages such as dings or dents.

Hailstorms can do a number on any vehicle, leaving large dents in the body. Depending on the situation and the severity of the damage, Tracy’s Collision Center can approach repairs in multiple ways. They can offer traditional heat repair and apply heat to the dented area so it expands and restores the shape of the surface; after the metal cools, the surface is then repainted.

Another option is paintless dent repairs. The technicians at Tracy’s Collision Center work with the metal from the inside out to reshape it without damaging the paint. This works best for smaller dings and dents. If the paint is not damaged on larger dents, this technique may also work in these instances. Whatever approach taken to restore your vehicle, Tracy’s always does so with the greatest level of attention and professionalism so their customers are satisfied with the end result.

The safety and comfort of the customers is the number one goal at Tracy’s, which is why they guarantee their repair work with a lifetime warranty for as long as you own your car. Tracy’s lifetime warranty covers: • Metalwork repair • Paint work, including stripes and decals • Mechanical repairs for one year • Parts used in your repair for one year One might think that storm damage can only cause cosmetic damage to a vehicle, but very severe weather can compromise the safety of a car on the road as well. For example, in the event

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of flooding, turning on your car after its been exposed to deep water can cause damage to the engine. Plus, water in the electrical system could cause a fire. Another concern for trapped moisture is that parts may begin to rust. It is important to dry out the car quickly, cleaning it thoroughly, and potentially replacing carpet or other materials to avoid further damage and unsafe conditions.

If your vehicle is not operable, you will need to have it assessed.

You will want to find a local, certified mechanic who could give the car a quick driveway inspection and advise on next steps.

Dan Pape with Midtown Body & Paint explained how they go the extra mile to provide top quality services when repairing vehicles damaged by a storm: “Depending on the damage your vehicle has sustained, it may not even be in good enough shape to drive to our body shop,” he said. “We offer towing and shuttle services, or if you need a vehicle while yours is in the shop, an Enterprise Rent-ACar is conveniently located next door to us.

We offer fast and friendly service without Dan Pape compromising on quality in any way. We Midtown Body & Paint spray only PPG waterborne paint, we work on all vehicle makes and models, and we always include courtesy detailing in our work because our commitment to excellence is an integral part of everything we do. Whatever repairs you need for your vehicle, you can rest assured that at the end of the process, your vehicle will look good as new. We work with you down to the smallest detail to guarantee your satisfaction.”

Severe weather is a fact of life, especially in Nebraska. Fortunately, there is much we can do to prepare and many excellent services available to help us if and when we find ourselves in a storm.

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Home Inspections

Loving Your Home

Randy King | 402.450.0978 KingsInspections.com

Are you spending more time at home these days and suddenly seeing your home with fresh eyes for the first time? Sometimes, we get too busy to notice the little things that have become outdated, the repairs that need doing, or the projects that are yet unfinished.

With new social distancing orders in the community and many people working from home, it’s possible you’re getting a look at your home base in a whole new light.

You may also find you have more time on your hands with reduced hours spent commuting to and from your workplace, and now may be the perfect time to see to some home improvements and projects you’ve been putting off. This can give you something enjoyable to focus on and also make those long hours spent at home more blissful as you turn your house into the ideal home you’ve always dreamed of.

Here are some tips and expert resources to help you make it happen!

Plan Your Project Before you dive into your project, it’s best to make a plan and prioritize the things you want to accomplish. The order you approach separate tasks can be important, especially if the tasks affect one another. It’s also possible that beginning a new project will uncover certain other things that need some attention. One great step to take at the outset of a new home improvement project is a pre-renovation inspection to help you pinpoint any issues that may be hidden in your home so you can address them during Randy King your project. Randy King with King’s Home King’s Home Inspections Inspections told us more about the prerenovation inspection process.

“Having your home inspected before a renovation project is recommended in order to avoid unexpected repairs or costly surprises during your project,” he said. “A pre-renovation inspection is really directed by the homeowner’s specific requests and needs for the particular project. The best inspectors treat your house as a whole connected system, and they nderstand the impact the separate parts have on the rest of the home. A good inspector can give you insight into the inner workings of your home and the health and durability of your structure, plumbing and electrical systems, roof and attic, etc. Having this perspective before you tear down a wall or put up new wallpaper in an area that may need some work done can save you a lot of time and money down the road.”

Once you have information from a pre-renovation inspection report, you will be ready to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty doing the real grunt work of your project.

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Chances are, your home renovation aspirations include a do-over of some space in the interior of your home. Because the kitchen is such a bustling hub of activity for so many homes, it makes sense that many home renovation projects begin in the kitchen.

Lori Wellman with Lincoln Cabinet explained how they help people transform a kitchen into a vibrant new space.

“When it comes to kitchen remodels, the sky’s the limit, and it doesn’t have to be expensive if you’re on a budget,” Lori said.

“If your budget allows for new countertops, that is a great way to change the look of the space. Adding backsplash tile or replacing

Lori Wellman Lincoln Cabinet

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www.lincolncabinet.c a dated backsplash in the kitchen is a simple project that can really change the look of your space for not much money.”

Creative Design Solutions for all Creative Solutions forneeds all yourDesign home remodeling www.lincolncabinet.com your home remodeling needs

“The best thing a homeowner can do is establish what their budget range is and then look at the space and make the changes that will give them the most ‘bang for their buck’ with the budget they have in place,” Lori added. “For instance, if you can afford getting new countertops, sink, and faucet, do that first then you can do a tile backsplash when more funds become available. However, if their kitchen really doesn’t fit their needs or the cabinetry is not good shape, owners would be better off waiting until they can afford to do a full update to the space as most countertops are difficult to reinstall and are hard to use in a new plan layout. Of course, if you want completely new cabinets and mid- to high-quality offerings, we certainly have these options too. As I said, the sky’s the limit!”

www.lincolncabinet.com

Lincoln Cabinet is a full-service design and remodeling company known for their kitchen and bathroom design, but they are also experienced in full house remodeling. Lori told us a little more about the design experience and how they really take it to the next level for their customers.

“We believe it is especially important to converse with our clients about potential designs they may not have considered that could improve their homes,” she said. “Often the client’s reaction is, ‘Oh, I never thought about that!’ Presenting other options and preplanning for future projects leads to people having the best space possible when we’re finished. We also utilize 3D software to help our clients visualize remodeling projects during the planning and decisionmaking phases.”

If you are interested in updating your current space, don’t hesitate to give Lincoln Cabinet a call.

Beyond having help with design planning, if you undertake a remodel project and need help with electrical work, Oak Electric can help. Matt Collins shared more with us.

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“Our team has a meticulous level of attention to detail, and our residential clients love that their projects are completed correctly the first time,” he told us. “Our master electrician will work closely with you to understand the needs of your remodel, wiring, exterior lighting, or other home Matt Collins projects. We can help with under-cabinet Oak Electric lights in your kitchen, can-light installation, basement finishes—or anything else you need! If you’re working from home and find your Wi-Fi isn’t up to par, we can also hardwire access points throughout your home to get you up to speed.”

Oak Electric takes pride in doing each job with care and precision— including practicing increased safety measures during the COVID-19 pandemic—and including customers in the process so they have all their questions answered.

Another company that offers great attention to detail when helping their customers undergo a new project is EMO Flooring. If you’re looking to change up the flooring in your home, EMO Flooring has the options and expertise you need to do your project the right way. Office Manager Jacque Lee shared some thoughts on the best flooring options for different areas of the home, starting with the kitchen.

Jacque Lee EMO Flooring

“Really any type of hard flooring can be used in a kitchen, depending your preference,” she said. “Engineered

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hardwood is a popular choice these days as a classic and durable option because style options are continually evolving to the degree that pretty much anything you can dream up is available. There are many different color and finishing options. The hardest part is choosing. For carpets, there are also a wide variety of excellent choices in endless styles and colors. We recommend you keep carpet in the bedrooms and not in high-traffic areas where the carpet will easily wear and fade. If you’re looking to put new flooring in a bathroom, mud room, or laundry area, we recommend tile. Tile is waterproof and easy to clean. There are a lot more patterned tiles now matching various decorating styles and historical-period styles… really anything you want!”

For those who do wish to have carpet in a high-traffic area such as a living room, Jacque recommends using an area rug to both protect the carpet and add an element of design and color.

“You can showcase dramatic area rugs that are so breathtaking in color and design, they’re like works of art,” she said. “Rugs can change the feel of a space in minutes, so you can do a room makeover on your lunch hour. Rugs look great layered over carpet or adding warmth and color to hardwood, laminate, vinyl, and tile.

EMO Flooring has a great selection of area rugs, and we offer design-selection advice for those looking to add that extra element of cohesion to a project.”

Another great way to spruce up a room is to add a beautiful piece of accent furniture.

Barnwood & Leather has a stunning collection of high-quality furniture crafted with the greatest skill and finest materials.

We spoke to Owner Brenda Clark to learn more.

“We carry a beautiful barnwood line made from 100% reclaimed wood, hand-crafted one at a time, that includes dining room pieces, living room accent tables, standBrenda Clark alone bars, pub tables and stools, and Barnwood & Leather office and bedroom furniture,” she said. “In addition, we can custom-design barnwood cabinets, and we also carry leather and upholstery furniture with the capability of designing custom-made pieces. Recently, we began working with local Nebraska artists and craftsmen who have their unique pieces for sale in our store, including table and wall art made from textured steel and copper, wood-carved accessory items, rustic furniture, and Nebraska photography.”

Whatever you choose from Barnwood & Leather’s collection, you can’t go wrong! Your interior will instantly be upgraded by the addition of any of their classic pieces.

Maximize Your Efficiency One home improvement project you may have been putting off for a while is equipping your home with automated systems. Smart home technology products such as smart thermostats; sprinkler system controls; smart outlets; window, door, and flood sensors; and more can greatly increase the energy efficiency of your home, and you’ll likely have a lot of fun planning and carrying out the project!

If you need a hand from someone who knows smart home technology inside and out, Addison Collingsworth with Simply Smart Homes is the man to talk to.

“A more high-tech home is now within the reach of any homeowner on any budget,” Addison said. “Better security, higher efficiency, and entertainment features like wireless audio and creative lighting brings convenience and simplicity to a person’s life at home. With automatic 911 dialing in the event of a fall, a garage door that opens Addison Collingsworth if CO2 build-up is detected, and various Simply Smart Homes #PrintProudDigitalSmart

alarms and devices to prevent a potential break-in, our easy-touse smart home features enhance the experience at home and help keep you safe. I can also help people improve their Wi-Fi so they don’t have wireless dead spots in their homes and their streaming will work better.”

The services offered at Simply Smart Homes range over a variety of functions and purposes. Products such as Simply Smart Homes’ window, door, and flood sensors can help you monitor if windows and doors are closed or your basement or any other room is flooding and also control lights when motion is present, listen for sounds when you are away from home, and provide many other features. These devices can be adapted to your specific needs and ensure your home is protected. Other Smart home technology products they offer to homeowners in Lincoln include cameras, smart locks, garage door controllers, smoke alarms, video doorbells, thermostats, lighting and fans, entertainment systems, smart speakers, smart outlets, and sprinkler system controls. A project aided by Simply Smart Homes can upgrade your home from the 20th to the 21st Century in a short period of time, saving you energy and money.

Perfect Your Exterior If the inside of your home is a peaceful sanctuary but you still feel it’s time for some home improvements, perhaps some updates to the exterior of your house are in order to add that special feeling we all look for in a home.

For those who want a contemporary look for the exterior of their home, Knotwood Central offers an exciting new product that boasts a long list of desirable qualities and uses. Shane Ligon, owner and operator of Knotwood Central, told us more about this product and the many ways it can enhance your home.

“Knotwood is a state-of-the-art product that genuinely looks like wood, but it’s not wood, it’s aluminum,” he said. “A lot of people are Shane Ligon surprised that it isn’t really wood because it Knotwood Central has such a beautiful, natural look to it. And that’s just the beginning of what makes it a great product. Knotwood is truly the new look of modern architecture.

It really makes things pop.”

Knotwood’s impressive list of beneficial qualities include being eco-friendly, non-porous, non-warping, scratch resistant, corrosion resistant, stain resistant, lightweight, non-combustible, insect proof, freeze resistant, slip resistant, UV resistant, 100% recyclable, color stable, heat dissipating, care free, and covered by a 15-year warranty.

“Knotwood is lighter, stronger, and straighter than real wood, and it comes in 30+ wood colors and 50+ custom colors,” Shane explained.

“In other words, Knotwood is pretty incredible! All you have to do is glance at our gallery online to see how beautiful and versatile this product is. While it can certainly be used for siding on a home, it doesn’t have to end there. The combinations and creative functions of this product are as extensive as the imagination of the homeowner undertaking the project.”

If you’re looking for a more classic exterior look that can easily add an element of charm to your home, an addition of brick siding can be paired with your current siding for a dynamic yet traditional look— and you don’t even have to give up the beautiful paint color you currently have on your siding! Yankee Hill Brick has been historically providing brick for nearly 140 years. They offer a selection of timetested brick styles from different periods and places in history. Their unique blends of clay and state-of-the-art, high temperature firing kiln allow manufacturing of the highest quality clay brick products in the industry. Their face brick is offered in over 50 varieties ranging from antique and highly-textured to smooth and classic and coming in colors from charcoal to burgundy to deep red to sandy beige #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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and everything in between. Just a few of the many distinctive styles of face brick include the following: • Standard face brick, notable for its smooth, sharp look.

• Tumble face brick, notable for a rugged look without sharp corners.

• Antique face brick, notable for a stone-like texture.

• Iron spot face brick, notable for a subtle, consistent texture of spots and marks.

Whatever your style or color preference for brick siding, Yankee Hill Brick is sure to have a perfect fit to complete the look of your home.

If you want to transform your exterior by adding on a deck, pergola, or some other outdoor feature, Decks Unlimited has the products, expertise, and team to help you with your project. We talked with Owner Dan Waters to learn more about what sets them apart in their industry.

“As Lincoln’s premier deck builder, we use only the highest quality products on the market,” Dan said. “We would not put our name behind anything less than the Dan Waters best. We use #1 grade pressure-treated Decks Unlimited ground contact YellaWood® lumber for our substructure because it gives us the correct strength ratings for necessary board spans while ensuring the board has less imperfections such as knots, bark, wane, cups, and bows that typically come with #2 lumber purchased from a lumber retailer. It’s important to make sure you’re using quality products so your new backyard space will be around for years of enjoyment, not years of maintenance.”

YellaWood® is a high-quality pine that has been pressure-treated with Micronized Copper Azole Preservative (MCA) to protect against rot, fungal decay, and termites. The MCA offers a lighter and more natural color and is certified environmentally friendly. In addition to YellaWood, Decks Unlimited uses industry-leading products such as TimberTech AZEK™ composites and Westbury® aluminum railing.

Decks Unlimited is 100% dedicated to using the highest quality products, best methods of installation, and training knowledgeable carpenters. They take pride in every deck they build no matter how big or small, and they truly believe that no job is finished until the customer is fully satisfied.

Beautify Your Grounds One of the most enjoyable aspects of home at this time of year with the weather getting more pleasant by the day is being able to relax under the shade of a tree in your own backyard or smell the rose bushes under your kitchen window. Don’t have any trees or rose bushes and think this deserves your attention as you make your home improvements? Luxury Landscape is the perfect partner for your landscaping adventures, as they will work with you as much or as little as you like and give you Jackie Lienemann all the attention and advice you need. We Luxury Landscape talked to Jackie Lienemann to learn more.

“We love helping others achieve their dream of building their perfect outdoor oasis,” Jackie said. “Most landscapers will only offer a full and complete installation, but what if you just need some advice, direction, and a little help? Luxury Landscape offers the DIY folks out there a way to fulfill their own dreams without costing them an arm and a leg.”

For someone who wants to improve their landscaping but is looking more for a little help than someone to do it for them, Luxury Landscape is the ideal company to work with. They bring the joy to your backyard and teach you how to grow and craft a little joy of #PrintProudDigitalSmart

your own. However, If you do want someone to take on the project and offer you the full experience from design to completion, Luxury Landscape offers this as well.

“We really strive to provide our customers with the perfect balance of all the help they need while also allowing them to take ownership of their yard and landscaping projects,” Jackie added. “Once the project is finished, we also offer maintenance packages to keep your grounds looking fresh and lovely. Whatever you need, we can do it!”

For ideas on how to plan a landscaping project, we talked to Tom Scharfen with Eagle Nursery.

“If you really want a beautiful landscape design, you need to consider a combination of hardscapes and softscapes,” Tom said.

“Softscapes include the health of your lawn, the shrubs, trees, and flowers you plant— any live horticultural elements of your landscape. The hardscape includes arbors and pergolas, retaining walls, walking Tom Scharfen paths, rock designs, firepits, paving, etc. The Eagle Nursery most beautiful landscape designs balance these elements and tie them together with a harmonious color scheme. People driving by your home may not realize the coordinated nature of your landscape, but they will know it makes them want to slow their speed and roll down the window and take it all in. Effective landscape design can be breathtaking.”

Eagle Nursery offers residential and commercial landscaping design and installation, landscape maintenance, hardscapes, landscape lighting, tree spading services, and snow removal. As an added bonus, they proudly utilize Nebraska-grown and Nebraska-hardy trees, shrubs, and perennials to enhance yards and landscapes throughout the Lincoln area and keep the ecosystem vibrant and healthy.

One important aspect of landscape and lawn maintenance that is important to consider in regards to the health of both your lawn and the environment is having a good sprinkler system in place. We spoke to Jeremy Hunt with Hunt Irrigation to learn more about this.

“Installing and maintaining a good sprinkler system will help you save water and money as well as help you avoid leaks and resulting damages. All this is, of course, good for Jeremy Hunt the environment as well,” he said. “Modern Hunt Irrigation sprinkler systems use sophisticated moisture sensors, water gauges, and timers to ensure only the amount of water your lawn needs is delivered. These irrigation systems are designed to not waste water, but to save water when compared to the imprecise process of manual watering.”

Jeremy explained that good sprinklers help maintain the health of your lawn and plants by neither overwatering or underwatering: “There really is a perfect balance in the amount of water your yard and plants need. Installing and maintaining a good sprinkler system makes striking this balance effortless and automatic. Hunt Irrigation takes the guesswork out of the whole process so you can be confident your system will function optimally. We work with you every step of the way, and you can always call us with questions if you think your system may need adjusting, particularly as weather patterns shift throughout the year.”

If your yard is beautifully landscaped and receiving the proper amount of moisture, your greatest task becomes caring for and maintaining your lawn. Because they know how much work this can be, Ray’s Lawn and Home Care provides their customers with a comprehensive treatment plan to ensure their lawns get the treatment they need all year round as the seasons change. The treatment plan begins in the spring with applying fertilizer and pre-emergent #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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followed by insecticide and herbicide in the summer and continued treatments of fertilizer and herbicide throughout the year. The process results in lush, green, healthy lawns and plants.

For anyone looking for excellent service in mowing, trimming, weeding, and other aspects of keeping up their grounds, TDK Lawn Care offers services guided by a fivepoint system of care for creating a healthy, green lawn. We talked to president of TDK Lawn Care, Lee Schumacher, to learn more.

“Our five steps for a healthy lawn work every time,” he said. “We apply them to every lawn we care for as though it were our own. These five steps include: Lee Schumacher 1. Watering at the correct times, with the TDK Lawn Care correct amount of water for your grass type. (Blue grass requires ¼” every other day. Tall fine fescue requires 1” per week).

2. Varying the heights of the mower for the variety of climates here in Nebraska. (During the warmest months, the mower height should be between 3” – 3 3/4”).

3. Aerating your lawn once to twice per year. (Aerating is usually done in the fall and spring when the grass is growing rapidly and repairs itself easily. TDK also recommends at this time that you overseed with a turf tall fescue).

4. Overseeding with drought and fungus resistant seed. Tall fescue works well for this. This is usually done in the spring or mid to late September.

5. Having the correct fertilizing schedule, which usually includes a six-step program for an average lawn and uses pre-emergent, weed, and grub control along with a winterizer.”

When you choose to work with TDK Lawn Care, you can be confident your grounds are receiving the care and attention they need so your property will stay healthy and green and enhance the beauty of your home.

Enjoy Your Home Whatever home improvement projects you pursue, the most important thing is that, in the end, you enjoy the result and find that home is a place you want to be. Your improvement projects should enhance your space in some way so your home suits you and functions the way you need it to. Perhaps, as you’re sitting in your beautiful backyard enjoying the completion of your recent home projects, the mosquitoes will remind you that there is always one more thing that needs your attention to make your space perfectly enjoyable. Let Mosquito Shield, a company under the umbrella of Heroes Management Services, provide you with some relief.

“From mosquito to tick control, Mosquito Shield will be your best friend in the warmer months,” said Owner Taylor Olberding.

“Our team professionally applies a blend comprised primarily of all-natural oils to mask, kill, and repel mosquitoes and ticks.

Our season long guarantee makes sure you can enjoy being outside all season long or your money back.”

With the help of Mosquito Shield’s services, you can rest in your beautiful backyard Taylor Olberding and take in the scene of your lovely home Heroes Management before you without the annoyance of pesky Services mosquitoes to spoil your mood! Instead you can end the day with a smile, knowing your hard work has paid off.

If you want to enhance your home space this spring and engage in a worthwhile home-improvement project, remember to seek out the very best services in Lincoln and look to professionals who can help you make your home the sanctuary you deserve. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Canine Design

Alamo Plaza / 56th & HWY 2 Lincoln, NE 68516

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Pet Care

Owning a pet is a wonderful thing at any time in life, but right now people are looking to their pets for comfort and companionship more than ever before. Our furry friends bring us a sense of normalcy and predictability to our lives. When everything around us is changing, our pets are still there wagging their tails or purring by our sides.

Taking care of your pet is just as important today as it was before society became overturned by the pandemic. Pets still need to be fed, walked, groomed, and cared for in a variety of other ways. We talked with local pet care experts to get their thoughts on important things to consider during today’s unusual circumstances as we care for our pets.

Danetta Jensen with Canine Design, located off of Holdrege and 56th, spoke to the importance of keeping as normal a routine as possible for your pet.

“Your pet will notice if you are anxious or distracted and suddenly not taking them for regular grooming appointments,” she said. “Continue offering your pet the care it needs. We’ve taken extra safety precautions at Canine Design to wipe down surfaces and keep things clean. We will also go outside to pick up your pet from you and bring your pet Danetta Jensen out when we are finished, if you prefer. You Canine Design can rest assured your pet will continue to be your happy companion through hard times if they continue to get their nails and hair trimmed so they aren’t itchy or snagging their toenails on the carpet.”

The groomers at Canine Design are focused on quality of pet care, not quantity. This is why each groomer only tends to about 4–5 pups a day. It’s not an assembly line to them—the same groomer will be with your dog from start to finish, allowing them to relax and feel comfortable throughout the grooming process. Maintaining a limited number of clients also means less in-and-out foot traffic at the shop.

Dian Quist, manager of Kenl Inn, shared her advice for pet owners who have suddenly found themselves spending a lot of time at home with their pets during Dian Quist community-wide shutdowns.

Kenl Inn

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Pet Salon

402-465-8760 1401 N 56th St, STE #110

We’ll Treat Your Pet

Like Family!

Lodging Salon Daycare Training

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402-488-8190 • www.Kenl-Inn.com 10241 E. Old Cheney Rd. Lincoln, NE Mon-Sat: 7a-8p Sun: 10a-8p

“Even as you’re enjoying extra snuggles and playtime with your pet, remember to prepare for the day when you will return to your office and won’t be spending as much time together,” she said. “If we aren’t careful, our pets can become too dependent on us and experience separation anxiety when we’re suddenly not available.

Take action to prevent this by letting your pet roam around in the backyard alone while you’re home, placing your pet in a kennel for a short time, or taking your pet to a daycare like Kenl Inn to get a healthy dose of time away.”

For pets who are prone to separation anxiety regardless of the steps you take to prevent this, Dave Titterington with Arnie’s Pet Food Store has a solution.

“CBD for pets has proven beneficial for treating anxiety and depression in pets,” he said. “CBD is also helpful for seizures or epilepsy, chronic pain and arthritis, nausea, aggressive behavior, cancer, glaucoma, loss of appetite, digestive and intestinal problems, and skin and coat issues. Arnie’s Pet Food Store carries a complete line of Dave Titterington pet CBD products to treat any issue your Arnie’s Pet Food Store dog or cat may be suffering from. Pet CBD products offered at Arnie’s are organic and safely extracted from the plant without using chemicals. They are the highest quality on the market, vet approved, and backed by documented quality assurance. Our curbside pickup and free delivery makes it easy to get the very best products for your pet.”

Remember it is just as important now as it has ever been to offer your pets proper love and care so they don’t become overwhelmed by the crisis. Keep them healthy and happy, and they will help keep you happy!

MAY 2020 Strictly Business

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

THE WATER SMART COMPANY Hunt Irrigation, Inc. The Water Smart Company has been serving Lincoln and the surrounding communities since 1997. Hunt started off as an irrigation-only company, but as the company has grown, so have the services they offer. Hunt Irrigation now offers commercial and residential irrigation installation and service, LED outdoor lighting, commercial and residential drainage, backflow testing, centrifugal and vertical pump installation, CAD services, and snow removal.

Jeremy Hunt, CEO, is a Certified Irrigation Contractor (CIC) and Certified Landscape Auditor (CLIA) by the Irrigation Association.

Jeremy is also a certified member of the PSN network through Watertronics. Hunt also staffs two Grade 6 Water Operators (backflow testing) certified through the State of Nebraska, along with a team of highly qualified members—from the office staff, Joy (office manager) and Teresa (scheduling manager), to the field staff Gonzalo Jr (service manager) B (install foreman) to the field personal Gonzalo Sr., Orlando, Nahum, and Ethan to John our CAD designer between all of these folks there is over a half a century of experience.

Hunt Irrigation specializes in conservation, whether it be through proprietary irrigation designs or their use of modern irrigation technologies such as pressure regulated heads, weather sensors,

and smart controllers or the use of LED lamps in outdoor lighting fixtures. The staff at Hunt Irrigation is always learning and growing as professionals, and attend multiple CEU and BMP seminars each year. Each team member believes in the Hunt Irrigation mission and understands that it is very important to be good stewards of their industry, and with good stewardship comes great responsibility in doing the right thing for each client and their lawn and landscapes. Doing more with less has never been more important.

In the 23 years Hunt Irrigation has served the community, 2020 has proven to be a true test of their grit as a company. They have had some of the most bizarre weather this spring with 40-degree temperature swings in a 24-hour period, that pesky COVID-19 virus, and a slowing economy. It has been and continues to be Hunt’s hope that the community will come together and rise above these hurdles no differently than Lincolnites and Nebraskans have in the past. Whether it was the dust bowl of 1935, the economic hardships in 2008, or the floods of 2019, we always seem to find our way through the storm as a community. With the current hurdles at hand, Hunt Irrigation has put together a comprehensive COVID-19 plan that will allow their company to continue to offer their services to current and future clients.

A Letter to the Hunt Irrigation Family The past few weeks have been uncertain and difficult, and we at Hunt Irrigation hope you and your loved ones are healthy and safe. Our hearts go out to all of those impacted by COVID-19 victims as well as all their family and friends.

While performing our services, we will be making a few modifications.

1. If possible, we would ask that the water to your irrigation system be turned on when we arrive so that we are not entering your home to maintain social distancing practices. If you are not familiar with how to turn the water on to your irrigation system, our service staff will be able to provide you with direction when they arrive on site.

2. If we do have to enter your home, our employees will be wearing masks upon entry to protect themselves as well as your family.

3. Meetings on service calls, estimates, and any other physical interaction be kept to a minimum number of people.

We at Hunt Irrigation believe in the power and resilience of the human spirit to help uplift one another especially during these trying times. Our community keeps us going and we are so grateful to each of you for being a part of our Hunt Irrigation family. As we move through this situation, please take care of yourself, your families, and our community as we are all in this together. We would also like to offer our assistance to those in need. Should you be unable, due to age, physical disability, or employment issues need items to be picked up and delivered to your home such as groceries, and personal hygiene items, please feel free to reach out to us. We would be happy to help out in this capacity. Thank you for your past business and for putting your trust in our company during this time of uncertainty.

Just as the trees will bud, the flowers will bloom, and the sun will shine, the staff at Hunt Irrigation is doing their very best to keep those simple pleasures in life like the touch of a soft blade of grass against a barefoot just outside your door a safe place to spend your time. We look forward to seeing you all soon—at a six foot distance, of course.

Should you need our assistance this year, please feel free to contact our office at (402) 438-8151, go to our Facebook page (@huntirrigationinc), or visit us at huntirrigation.com.

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Strictly Business MAY 2020

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