Strictly Business Lincoln - March 2024 by Strictly Business - Lincoln & Omaha, Nebraska

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LINCOLN • MARCH 2024 TM

2023 reached new heights; 2024 is destined for continued success

FEATURE STORIES

• WORKPLACE WELLNESS • TECHNOLOGY • REUSE, RECYCLE, RESELL • SPRING CLEANING • COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION • JOINING ORGANIZATIONS

restaurant expose PAGE 24 Hub Cafe

CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS

• LANDMARK NURSERY & LANDSCAPING • CAREERPATHWAY.COM • DARING MINDS THERAPY • SERVICEMASTER CLEAN

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MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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

From the Desk of Paige, President of Strictly Business Magazine:

A Love Letter to Lincoln’s Small Businesses Dear Fellow Lincolnites, As President of Strictly Business Magazine, I have the distinct pleasure of immersing myself in the vibrant world of Lincoln's businesses. Each month, I meet passionate individuals driven by a dream, who’ve built empires and those that aspire to build ones from the ground up, and weaving themselves into the very fabric of our community. It's a privilege I don't take lightly, and today, I want to share why I find working with you so inspiring. Firstly, let's be honest: you're the heartbeat of Lincoln. From the cozy coffee shops brewing the perfect cup to the innovative tech startups disrupting industries, from the family-owned retailers and construction companies to the dynamic fitness studios keeping us healthy, you paint the canvas of our city with passion and purpose. You create jobs, support local causes and inject a unique personality into every corner.

But what truly captivates me is the spirit that runs through each of you. It's the grit that pushes you through late nights and unexpected challenges. It's the resourcefulness that turns limited budgets into

CONTENTS

NEWS 4 Business 25 Personnel 35 Nonprofit

SPOTLIGHTS Landmark Nursery CareerPathway.com Daring Minds Service Master

FEATURE STORIES 58 61 64 66 69 78 2

At Strictly Business, we don't just tell your stories; we believe in them. We believe in the power of local businesses to shape our future, cultivate community and leave a lasting impact. That's why we work tirelessly to connect you with potential customers, celebrate your achievements and advocate for policies that foster your growth.

you're a seasoned We’re your biggest fans, Whether entrepreneur or manager or just starting your journey, remember this: you are not alone. We're here to amplify and we’ll be here your voice, showcase your talents and you with the resources you need to thrive. Together, we can build every step of the way, connect a Lincoln where small businesses not only survive, but flourish, becoming the cheering you on. envy of cities across the nation.

This month’s special feature story “Joining Organizations” is a great place to discover and learn about new places you can increase your power and influence. Take a look at page 78 to find out about all the great local organizations you can join. Whether it be the chamber of commerce, a women’s organization or trade association, there are so many great organizations to join to help you grow your network and gain lifelong friendships.

48 50 52 54

creative solutions. It's the audacity to chase wild dreams and build something extraordinary. I witness this spirit every day, in every story we share and it fuels my own fire to champion your success.

Workplace Wellness Technology Reuse, Recycle, Resell Spring Cleaning Commercial Construction Joining Organizations

Strictly Business MARCH 2024

So, dear Lincoln entrepreneurs, keep chasing your dreams, keep pouring your heart into your work and keep making our city a vibrant tapestry of innovation and passion. We're your biggest fans, and we'll be here every step of the way, cheering you on. P.S. Don't hesitate to reach out! We're always eager to hear your stories and explore collaborative opportunities. Let's keep the conversation going!

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

COLUMNS 18 49 51 53 55

Star City Six Strictly Business Upcoming Events Lincoln Independent Business Association Downtown Lincoln Association Lincoln Chamber of Commerce

RESTAURANT EXPOSE 24 Hub Cafe

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.

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ABOUT THE COVER Professional Realty Group: 2024 is destined for continued success

he Professional Realty Group (PRG) of BHHS Ambassador Real Estate had an absolutely outstanding 2023, and 2024 is already up and running at full speed! Last year the team accomplished the closing of 248 transactions, that equated to more than $78,000,000 worth of production. This placed them as the #1 Real Estate team in Lincoln! With the market shifting and interest rates leveling out, it will be crucial for consumers to work with agents that know the true definition of being a fiduciary, and with the highest level of experience. You’ll find exactly that with PRG! The team knows real estate investments are the biggest ones consumers make, and they are top notch at working with buyers and sellers across all angles of it, such as: Residential, Commercial, Investing, New Construction, Leasing, Land Development and more. PRG’s goals, as always, are set extremely high, and their focus isn’t just achieving them, but doing it while upholding the highest standards. This is achieved by not just being good, but being the best! PRG’s agents are highly trained before going into the field, but also constantly undergoing continuing education, in-field training and weekly sales meetings with focus on current events, market trends and skill sharpening. With the current amount of inexperienced agents in the market, it’s easy to accidentally pick one that won’t properly protect them. Don’t make that mistake, as it could cost you thousands of dollars, legal trouble or worse. PRG makes the process smooth and offers protection you absolutely deserve. Another big deal for PRG is giving back to our community. The team donates to a number of local charities, plus actively participates in many events that help the community. If you have a cause PRG should consider supporting, please make sure to reach out. 2024 has already intimidated many who were considering buying or selling due to the volatility we’ve seen over the last year. There’s no need to be afraid. PRG can educate and help you determine the safest path forward. PRG wants to thank all of their past and current clients for their support, and they look forward to serving you all in the future! Here’s to an amazing year ahead! Ben Bleicher has been in real estate for ten years. He established Professional Realty Group in 2018, followed by many record-setting years. Ben believes that consumers deserve protection, expertise, and a team that genuinely cares, as they face one of the most expensive investments a person can make. Connect with PRG of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices for assistance with buying and selling residential, commercial, new construction, leasing and investments, by contacting Ben at (402) 4196309 (call or text) / ben.bleicher@bhhsamb.com or visit www.PRG-NE.com.

PRODUCTION TEAM: Director of Operations Kacey Russell – Kacey@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Art Director Jayda Lyon – Jayda@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Editor/Writer Shae Withington – Shae@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com SALES TEAM: President/Sales Paige Zutavern – Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Publisher/Founder/Accounting Shayne Zutavern – SZutavern@Yahoo.com

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MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS Bassetts’ Estate Sales Celebrates Five-Year Anniversary

Krueger Development Announces Opening of Tenant Magni Stone

Bassetts’ Estate Sales is celebrating five years in business! They held their first estate sale on March 31, 2019. Since then, they have helped nearly 100 families, clients, trust officers and attorneys. “As the owner of Bassetts’ Estate Sales, I love what I do every day! I thank my loyal staff, who have helped make this business successful! I enjoy seeing our regulars and meeting new people at each sale! I also want to thank Lincoln for the opportunity to thrive in my hometown!” shared Owner Amy Truell. “My Interior Design Degree from UNL has been what makes my sales organized and shopper friendly.” Downsizing, moving or the loss of a loved one is a monumental task with high emotions. Bassetts’ Estate Sales takes on the hard work with their professional, compassionate and skilled staff, making the process as easy for you as possible. Every step of the process is handled when you choose them for your estate sale. They do the hard work for you, so you can concentrate on what’s really important. To learn more about Bassetts’ Estate Sales, contact Owner Amy Truell at (402) 805-0751 / amy@bassettsestatesales.com or visit www. bassettsestatesales.com.

Krueger Development p ro u d l y a n n o u n c e s the leasing of 1415 Dahlberg STE G to Magni Stone, a company that recently expanded its presence into the Lincoln market in February. With a successful track record of serving the Omaha community for many years, Magni Stone has become a trusted and leading supplier of both natural stone veneer and manufactured stone veneer. This strategic move to extend their services into Lincoln reflects Magni Stone's commitment to providing quality stone products to a broader audience. As they set foot in the Lincoln market, Magni Stone looks forward to continuing their tradition of excellence and delivering top-notch stone veneer solutions to the local community. For more than 30 years, the family owned and operated Krueger Development has contributed to Lincoln’s commercial and residential marketplace by developing communities, retail centers and multifamily residences. For more information about available commercial spaces, contact Krueger Development at (402) 423-7377 or visit kruegerdevelopment.com.

Prison Education Program at SCC Starts with 2024 Spring Semester S o u t h e a s t Community College (SCC) is partnering with the Nebraska Depar tment of Correctional Services to provide access to higher education to individuals incarcerated in five southeast Nebraska facilities/ locations. Classes started on Monday, January 22, and will be taught at the Nebraska State Penitentiary, Reception and Treatment Center, Community Corrections Center, Nebraska Correctional Center for Women and at the Center for People for CCCL students. In July 2023, the Department of Education expanded Federal Pell grants to incarcerated individuals, paving the way for SCC to create a Prison Education Program. SCC worked with the NDCS to identify two programs which could be taught on-site before applying to the Higher Learning Commission and the Department of Education for approval to provide Pell funds to incarcerated students. The Associate of Arts in Academic Transfer and the Associate of Applied Science in Business were selected because of the transferability of the courses once SCC is able to expand PEP in offerings and locations. Five of the nine correctional facilities in Nebraska are located in SCC’s 15-county service area. Providing access to justice-involved individuals aligns with the College’s Strategic Goal 1.6, which is to “improve access to programs and services among diverse and underserved student populations through proactive community collaboration, recruitment and support services.” SCC plays a vital role for our communities in southeast Nebraska by bridging the higher education affordability gap and filling a need for a qualified workforce in Nebraska. Learn more at www. southeast.edu. 4 Strictly Business MARCH 2024

NAWIC Offering Four Committees to Assist Members The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Greater Omaha Chapter #116 is excited to announce that membership is open to all women working in construction, including those in trades, project management, marketing, administration, executive leadership roles, as well as women in related industries such as finance, legal and others. The Greater Omaha Chapter #116 of NAWIC is proud to offer four dynamic committees and each work tirelessly to organize a diverse range of events throughout the year: • Marketing Committee: Engage in promotional activities, raise awareness about NAWIC events and initiatives and shape the organization's public image. • Membership Committee: Focus on recruitment efforts, welcoming new members and ensuring existing members feel supported and engaged within the NAWIC community. • Personal Development and Education Committee: Facilitate educational workshops, seminars and training sessions aimed at enhancing members' skills and advancing their careers in the construction industry. • Finance Committee: Manage financial resources, budgeting and financial planning to ensure the chapter's sustainability and success. Like NAWIC on Facebook – National Association of Women in Construction Greater Omaha Chapter #116, or follow them on LinkedIn – NAWIC – Greater Omaha Chapter #116, to stay updated on other NAWIC events! For more details, visit www.nawicomaha.org. Reach out to Chapter President Lori Ruzicka at lruzicka@lucidins. com or NAWIC Vice President and Marketing Chair Tori De Jesus at blazerstoblueprints@gmail.com with any additional questions or if you are interested in supporting the chapter. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Choices Treatment Center Recognizes March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month Choices Treatment Center and the Nebraska Council on Problem Gambling, in collaboration with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), recognize March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM). PGAM is dedicated to increasing public awareness of problem gambling and the availability of prevention, treatment and recovery services. Problem gambling is defined as all gambling behavior patterns that compromise, disrupt or damage personal, family or vocational pursuits. Approximately two million U.S. adults (1% of the population) are estimated to meet the criteria for severe problem gambling. Another four to six million (2-3%) meet the criteria for mild or moderate problem gambling. Problem Gambling Awareness Month is a crucial opportunity to engage Nebraska communities in a dialogue about the impact of gambling-related issues on individuals and their loved ones. This annual observance provides an essential platform for organizations across the country to highlight the availability of support services for those affected. During March, Choices Treatment Center staff has planned a series of impactful events and initiatives aimed at educating the public and fostering conversations about problem gambling. These events will include school-sponsored activities at several local colleges and universities, problem gambling screening events throughout eastern and central Nebraska and presentations on problem gambling prevention and education that are available to the public. Proclamations acknowledging PGAM will be signed by city leaders in communities throughout the state, as well as a statewide proclamation signed by Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen. “Problem Gambling Awareness Month promotes essential awareness for individuals affected by problem gambling as well as their loved ones,” said Deb Hammond, Choices Treatment Center Director. “Choices stands behind initiatives aimed at enhancing accessibility to prevention, treatment and recovery services. Assistance for problem gambling remains readily available in Nebraska, not only during March but throughout the entire year, thanks to the Nebraska Gamblers Assistance Program and certified disordered gambling counselors throughout the state.” Choices Treatment Center also invites local media outlets to engage in this important conversation and help spread the word about the resources available for those dealing with problem gambling. For more information about problem gambling and how to increase awareness of problem gambling, visit www.ncpgambling.org/FAQs, https://problemgambling.nebraska.gov and choicestreatmentcenter. net. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call or text the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gamblerchat.org. Help is available 24/7/365 – it is free and confidential. Nebraskans can also call 1-833-BET-OVER (1-833-238-6837) 24/7/365 to speak to a Nebraska-based treatment professional and learn more about free and confidential services available in the state. Choices Treatment Center is an outpatient treatment and recovery facility committed to helping individuals overcome problems related to gambling, substance abuse and mental health. Visit www. choicestreatmentcenter.net for more information. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS NEWS Lincoln Demolition & Excavation Attends Annual Excavation Safety Summit for Fourth Consecutive Year Lincoln Demolition & Excavation was thrilled to attend the Annual Excavation Safety Summit in February. This marked their fourth consecutive attendance at the event. Because they highly prioritize training and safety, they make sure they can attend this event every year to keep employees updated on the latest methods and practices for excavation and related services. The Annual Excavation Safety Summit is a free educational event that brings together over 1,200 stakeholders with a shared objective of promoting damage prevention and safe digging practices. The day features presentations from various industry experts, and the Excavator Rodeo offers participants a chance to showcase their skills with excavation equipment and compete for prizes. The event also includes a diverse range of exhibitors and sponsors who present industry products and services, contributing to the overall educational and collaborative atmosphere of the summit. Lincoln Demolition & Excavation specializes in six core services: interior/exterior demolition, concrete removal and replacement, grading and drainage solutions, excavation and trenching, land clearing and parking lot/driveway maintenance and repair. You can schedule your service today by going to www.LincolnDemoAndEx. com or by contacting Owner Jake Metz at (402) 942-4037 / jake@ lincolndemoandex.com.

Strictly Business MARCH 2024

Hub Café Part of National Mural Project Jacob and Crystal Thiessen of the Hub Cafe invited Phoenix-based muralist, Kayla Newnam, to complete an interior mural in the café as a part of her national public art project, Out There Murals, that will see her produce a public mural in each of the 50 states. The Hub Cafe is the official Nebraska stop representing the 18th state of this project, which is expected to be completed in about three years. In order to demonstrate the process and power of public artmaking, an open house and live painting Q&A with Newnam was held in January as she added details to her Nebraska-inspired mural. Since its inception as a farmer-owned restaurant in 2016, the Hub Cafe has been dedicated to creating freshly prepared and locally sourced breakfasts, brunches and lunches in Lincoln. The cafe’s location on the confluence of Lincoln’s vast bike trail network that overlooks the beautiful Antelope Valley has contributed to its name, serving as a hub for friends, food, community and bicycling. The original commitment to sourcing ingredients from as many local growers and small farms as possible in the Lincoln area continues to drive their desire for cultivating a united community spirit through unique farm-to-fork creations. Executive Chef and Owner, Jacob, and his wife, Crystal, invite you to enjoy comfort food inspired by both their upbringings in the Midwest and their global travels at the Hub Café. Learn more at www.hubcafelincoln.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS Cedarhurst Senior Living Expands with Acquisition of Cedar Creek of Prairie Meadows and Cedar Creek of High Plains Cedarhurst Senior Living is thrilled to announce the acquisition of two new communities specializing in memory care: Cedar Creek of Prairie Meadows (13208 Meredith Ave., Omaha, NE 68164) and Cedar Creek of High Plains (5601 S. 84th St., Lincoln, NE 68516). These Nebraska additions further enrich their family of communities, allowing them to extend their commitment to providing exceptional care and support to seniors and their families. In the upcoming weeks, Cedarhurst Senior Living will embark on comprehensive training initiatives to seamlessly integrate the Crafted dining program, the Living True Life Enrichment program and other enriching activities at these locations. These initiatives are integral to their mission of ensuring every resident has the opportunity to thrive and live their best life possible. "At Cedarhurst Senior Living, our mission is to create communities where each person feels loved, valued, supported and able to live their life to the fullest," said Almir Sajtovic, President at Cedarhurst Senior Living. "Now, with the addition of Cedar Creek of Prairie Meadows and Cedar Creek of High Plains, we have the opportunity to carry out that mission even further."

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Cedarhurst Senior Living is committed to providing personalized care in a warm and welcoming environment, and they are excited to extend their reach to the residents and families of Cedar Creek of Prairie Meadows and Cedar Creek of High Plains. Both communities are now accepting new residents. To schedule a tour or learn more about Cedar Creek of High Plains, please contact cedarcreekhighplains@cedarhurstliving.com. To schedule a tour or learn more about Cedar Creek of Prairie Meadows, please contact cedarcreekprairiemeadows@cedarhurstliving.com. Cedarhurst Senior Living is an experienced operator of Independent Living, Assisted Living, Personal Care and Memory Care communities under the Cedarhurst Senior Living, Cedar Creek and The Artisan brands. Cedarhurst is part of The Dover Companies, established in 2007 to develop, construct, own and operate high-quality senior housing. Cedarhurst Senior Living operates 66 communities in Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Georgia, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Wisconsin and currently has five new communities under construction. The senior living provider’s mission is to create communities where each person feels loved, valued, supported and able to live life to the fullest. To learn more about Cedarhurst, please visit www.cedarhurstliving.com.

It’s Not What You Know, It’s Who You Know and Who Knows You! At Strictly Business, we strive to recognize local professionals 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 at strictly-business.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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JOIN US FOR AN INTERCITY VISIT TO BOISE July 16 – 19, 2024 The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and Greater Topeka Partnership invite you to join us this summer on a collaborative intercity visit to one of the fastest growing cities in the country. Together, we will embark on a journey to uncover new opportunities for community advancement. TOPEKALINCOLN.COM

MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS Remy Refinishing Offering DIY Kitchen Cabinet Painting Program 50% Off Re my Re f i n i s h i n g i s offering their DIY Kitchen Cabinet Painting Program, where you can save 50% off cabinet painting. Do you feel like you could paint your own cabinets but are unsure of all the details? Remy Refinishing will spray paint your doors and drawer faces in their shop, and then teach you how to brush and roll your own frames as well as how to uninstall and reinstall your cabinets. The Remy Refinishing team can do any percentage of the job you need them to. If you want to paint your frames but can’t transport or install your own doors, there is no problem. They can also drill new handles and install new hinges for you if needed. The purpose of this program is to open up the possibility for more people to use Remy Refinishing’s services in any capacity. This program is available for homeowners or other contractors that may not have a shop to spray cabinet doors in. Give Owner Jeremy Day a call at (402) 570-9427 to find out more. Remy Refinishing opened in 2015 and has since grown to five employees and a shop space where they produce sprayed cabinets. Their goal from the beginning has been to provide a high-quality painting service to happy customers. Remy Refinishing specializes in cabinet painting and other fine finish paint jobs such as front doors, staircases and fireplace mantles. For more information, go to remyrefinishing.com.

Home Builders Association of Lincoln Announce Interior and Residential Design Contest Winners The Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL) announced the winners of the Interior and Residential Design Contest at the 52nd annual Nebraska Builders Home & Garden Show held at the Sandhills Global Event Center February 9-11. The two categories judged were Residential Drafting and Interior Design. Winners of the Residential Drafting Contest: First Place, $200 – Jenna Johnson, Lincoln East High School Second Place, $150 – Lucy Barrett, Lincoln East High School Third Place, $100 – Ian Tinsley, Lincoln East High School Winners of the Interior Design Contest: First Place, $200 – Makenna Morgan, Lincoln Southeast High School Second Place, $150 – Apple Sullivan, Lincoln East High School Third Place, $100 – Kearah Perreault, Lincoln High School Residential Drafting judges were Marlene Stroup, Schwinn Homes, LLC; Greg Smith, Davis Design; Aubrey Wassung, Davis Design; Dayna Hoch, Davis Design and Dan Loeck, Loeck Designs. Interior Design judges were Pam Magner, Reynolds Design & Remodeling; Megan Dreyer; CS Kitchen and Bath Studio; and Heidi Polacek, Lincoln Cabinet. Chair of the annual contest is Pam Magner. For more information about HBAL, visit www.hbal.org.

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BUSINESS NEWS Access Family Medicine Announces Refer a Friend Promotion For the next three months, Access Family Medicine is running a promotion from March 1 to May 31. Any individual, family or business that refers a new client to their office will receive a credit towards their account. New clients must mention the individual that referred them when they register with their office. Please call or email the office for complete details. As a member of Access Family Medicine, here are a few of the benefits you will enjoy: • Personalized care tailored to your preferences and comfort • Minimum of 30-minute office visits • Unlimited access to your physician: any time, any day – holidays included • Timely appointments • Full access to virtual medicine: phone, email, text, webcam and more • Annual physical exams at no extra cost • Diagnostic and in-house procedures at a wholesale cost • Wholesale labs, imaging and medications • OMT services At Access Family Medicine, they believe that one-on-one interaction is a key factor in providing excellent healthcare. They strive to create the most individualized care imaginable that is uniquely centered on each patient’s personal needs. Helping patients prevent, diagnose and treat health issues with affordable solutions is what sets Access Family Medicine apart from their competitors. For more information about Access Family Medicine and the benefits and services they provide, visit accessfamilymedicine.com. Further questions can be answered by phone or email at (402) 858-1510 / info@accessdpc. com.

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Sun Valley Lanes Announces Spring Sand Volleyball and Corn Hole Leagues Sun Valley Lanes & Games is thrilled to announce that registration is currently open for the sand volleyball and corn hole leagues that begin the week of April 7. To register or learn more, visit Sunvalleylanes.com/leagues. Sun Valley Lanes offers sand volleyball six days a week! There are a variety of league options from recreational 6v6 to more competitive 4v4 and 2v2. Due to the playoff structure, teams are guaranteed six weeks/matches, but could play up to eight. All participants must be 18 years of age or older to play in a Sand Volleyball league. Sun Valley Lanes offers adult-only corn hole leagues MondayWednesday. The Monday league is co-ed, where each team must consist of one male and one female. All other leagues can have any combination. All participants must be at least 18 years of age or older to participate in a corn hole league. Sun Valley Lanes & Games is a leading entertainment hub in Lincoln, offering various activities for individuals and groups, from state-ofthe-art bowling lanes to laser tag, Lucky Putt mini-golf and much more. To learn more, call (402) 475-3469 or visit sunvalleylanes.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS Nebraska Ethanol Board Announces Nebraska Fuel Stations and Drivers Raised $18K for Breast Cancer Research For the past six years, Nebraska gas stations have united, raising thousands of dollars for cancer research as part of Fuel the Cure – a campaign that also educates others about healthier fuel options. Annually, throughout October, drivers opting for higher blends of ethanol fuel like E15, E30 and E85 triggers a three-cent donation for each gallon sold at participating stations. Fuel retailers alone raised $18,733 this past year, and the six-year campaign total has grown to $64,572. Donations from fuel retailers benefit the Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center in Omaha. Learn more at fueledbynebraska.com/pink. Ethanol, a natural octane booster derived from Nebraska field corn, plays a pivotal role in displacing harmful aromatics in gasoline linked to cancer, heart disease and respiratory issues. Fill up with higher ethanol blends all year long to reduce air pollution, save money at the pump and support Nebraska farmers. Find gas stations at fueledbynebraska.com. Fuel the Cure also sponsors the American Cancer Society of Nebraska’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk and provides vital funding to the Heartland Cancer Foundation, assisting over 300 Nebraska cancer patients with fuel costs by way of ethanol gift cards. Fuel the Cure invites Nebraska fuel retailers selling higher ethanol blends to connect with Jessica Sodeke, Communications and Outreach Manager for the Nebraska Ethanol Board, at Jessica.sodeke@ nebraska.gov for 2024 participation details.

Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate Now Managing Clock Tower Shopping Center Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate is proud to announce t h a t t h ey are now managing Clock Tower Shopping Center effective February 1. The iconic Clock Tower Shopping Center, located at the corner of 70th St. and A St., has been a part of East Lincoln for over 50 years and is home to many thriving businesses. Greenleaf is committed to improving Clock Tower shopping center along with proactively making sure that the tenants are taken care of. Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate has helped local business owners purchase, lease and manage commercial properties since 1973. Their focus on relationship building and understanding each client’s unique circumstances and objectives allow them to tailor a strategy specifically designed to accomplish their client’s goals. Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate is a full-service commercial real estate company offering professional asset management services and brokerage services including leasing, sales, acquisitions, consulting and development. Whatever your commercial real estate needs might be, Greenleaf’s team of professionals is here to help you succeed. For more information on Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate, call (402) 467-2525 or visit www.greenleafcommercial.com.

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Experts you can trust. Services you can rely on. Our technicians use tried-and-true restoration methods to restore your property according to industry standards. 24/7 Emergency: 800.928.3732 | Local: 402.318.3737 | jeff.carstens@1800waterdamage.com

Strictly Business MARCH 2024

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BUSINESS NEWS Lincoln Airport Celebrates Two Years of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program at Lincoln Airport aims to bring awareness to those with hidden or invisible disabilities and to remind airport staff to exercise extra care when working with these passengers and their families. Invisible disabilities may include autism, epilepsy, low vision or hearing loss, PTSD, dementia, depression, asthma, chronic pain, anxiety disorders, brain injuries and more. Passengers do not need to disclose their disability and no documentation is required to participate. Those wishing to participate should locate the green box containing free special sunflower products at the United Airlines ticketing counter or the LNK Customer Service counter. Passengers may choose a lanyard, bracelet or pin from the box to discreetly indicate they might need additional assistance. All airport staff and Airport Authority employees have been trained on how to recognize and engage with these passengers. The Lincoln Airport team has been trained to recognize these items and provide support such as extra time at check-in or security, escorting to gates or assistance with reading signage. Wearing these items does not exempt passengers from normal airport processes like security screening. “The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program is just another way to show our commitment to great customer service. We want all passengers to feel supported to travel,” stated Rachel Barth, Director of Communications and Customer Engagement. More information about the Sunflower Program and Hidden Disabilities is available at hiddendisabilitiesstore.com/us. For more information about flights and services with Lincoln Airport, visit lincolnairport.com or call (402) 458-2480.

Center Sphere Celebrates 14th Anniversary Center Sphere is turning 14 in March. The story started in 2010. CEO and Co-Founder, Brett Boyer shared, “It’s hard to believe Center Sphere and our platform is turning 14 years old. From an idea in a sandwich shop to 28 states represented, it has been great to be a part of it all! I couldn’t be more proud of our members for what they’ve accomplished together. Together, we take pride in raising over $600,000 collectively for nonprofits and people in need, by being diligent about building authentic relationships. I am inspired every day by our team and members hearts for others.” Center Sphere encourages members to grow their network and bring in individuals they know and trust. With their Free with Three program, for every three members someone recruits into The Network, they earn a FREE renewal! Maximize your membership by growing your network! Center Sphere is an established network of business professionals whose mission is to share referrals, ideas, and resources through genuine relationships. For more information about Center Sphere or to inquire about attending a complimentary meeting or event, visit www. CenterSphere.com or connect with Lincoln Director of Membership Ashley Hinze at Ashley@CenterSphere.com / (402) 690-4434. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

mitierralincoln.com Two Locations 5500 Old Cheney Rd. #4 Lincoln NE, 68516 (402) 261-3221

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SAFE AND SOUND. Protect your money with Insured Cash Sweeps. As an IntraFi Cash ServiceSM (ICS®) member, FNBO is the bank relationship you can count on to help you access multi-milliondollar FDIC insurance through thousands of participating banks.

/ICS When deposited funds are exchanged on a dollar-for-dollar basis with other institutions that use ICS, our bank can use the full amount of a deposit placed through ICS for local lending, satisfying some depositors’ local investment goals or mandates. Alternatively, with a depositor’s consent, our bank may choose to receive fee income instead of deposits from other participating institutions. Under these circumstances, deposited funds would not be available for local lending. Deposit placement through CDARS or ICS is subject to the terms, conditions, and disclosures in applicable agreements. Although deposits are placed in increments that do not exceed the FDIC standard maximum deposit insurance amount (“SMDIA”) at any one destination bank, a depositor’s balances at the institution that places deposits may exceed the SMDIA (e.g., before settlement for deposits or after settlement for withdrawals) or be uninsured (if the placing institution is not an insured bank). The depositor must make any necessary arrangements to protect such balances consistent with applicable law and must determine whether placement through CDARS or ICS satisfies any restrictions on its deposits. A list identifying IntraFi network banks appears at https://www.intrafi.com/network-banks. The depositor may exclude banks from eligibility to receive its funds. Member FDIC

MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month

Nebraska Problem Gambling Helpline | 1-833-238-6837 National Problem Gambling Helpline | 1-800-522-4700 CHOICES Treatment Center | 402-476-2300 These 24/7 helplines are confidential and will direct you to a certified counselor who can provide immediate help. The Nebraska Gamblers Assistance Program (GAP) pays for the assessment and treatment of problem gambling for Nebraskans struggling with problem gambling and their families.

For more information go to: www.ChoicesTreatmentCenter.com www.ProblemGambling.Nebraska.gov If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available.

127 S 37th Street, Suite B Lincoln, NE 68510 402-476-2300 CHOICES Treatment Center is certified with GAP 12

Strictly Business MARCH 2024

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BUSINESS NEWS Empowering Seniors with Nebraska Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminars: Free Monthly Seminars in Lincoln Seniors in Lincoln and surrounding communities have a unique opportunity to connect, learn and grow through the Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminars, a series of free monthly gatherings designed to address the challenges and opportunities of aging. Held on the first Wednesday of every month at 10 a.m. in Suite One-Eleven at the Clocktower Shopping Area, 70th and A streets, these seminars bring together experts to share insights on financial management, mobility strategies and simplifying life among other topics crucial for seniors today. The initiative aims not only to educate but also to build a community among seniors and their families. With future topics such as "Strategies for Staying Behind the Wheel" and "Downsizing and Decluttering," the seminars are designed to equip seniors with the tools they need for financial stability, independence and a clutterfree lifestyle. Recognizing the impact of aging on the entire family, the seminars also welcome adult children of seniors. Beyond the practical advice, the seminars serve as a networking platform for seniors, providing an avenue to forge new friendships and support networks. The upcoming seminars promise to delve into pertinent issues affecting seniors today, with the next three topics focusing on managing retirement finances, maintaining mobility and independence and strategies for downsizing. For more information about Nebraska Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminars and the Downsizers Club, please contact Alicia Chrastil at (402) 499-8147 or NeSavvySeniors@gmail.com. More information about Nebraska Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminars can be found at www.NeSavvySeniors.com.

* Currently Not for Sale

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Oak Electric ‘I Spy’ Campaign Returns for Fourth Year in March Oak Electric is excited to bring back the ‘I Spy’ campaign for its fourth year. The ‘I Spy’ campaign is a way for Oak Electric to give back to their customers by providing a fun, interactive game of ‘I Spy’ throughout the month of March. Winning is Easy! All you have to do is spot an Oak Electric van around town and when you do, snap a picture and tag Oak Electric on Facebook and you win a gift card from a local restaurant. Make sure you already like and follow the Oak Electric page along with ensure that the post is public (only one winner per address). Oak Electric will be posting subtle hints throughout the day to guide all eager spies! Oak Electric is a premium, full service, electrical contractor with a tradition of exemplary service. Oak Electric provides both residential and commercial services and repairs. Some services include security cameras, electric car charges, hook up hot tubs and pools, interior and exterior lighting, panel upgrades, remodels, service conversion and more. For more information, call your friendly electricity expert at (402) 440 5969 or visit www.oakelectriccompany.com #PrintProudDigitalSmart

MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS BBB Partners with FTC and Area Law Enforcement Agencies to Promote NCPW

Strawberry Springs Pool and Spa ThursdayPools.com

Taking Reservations For Thursday Pool Installs

If you’ve been thinking about a fiberglass pool, your weekend begins with Thursday!

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StrawberrySprings.com

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March includes National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), a week devoted to informing consumers of their rights and educating the public about scam and ID theft prevention. You may have rights as a consumer you did not realize you had – rights that could make all the difference in today’s rough-andtumble, internet-based financial landscape. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) of the Midwest Plains has partnered with the Federal Trade Commission and area law enforcement agencies on innovative programs to protect consumers and business owners. Access those opportunities at www.bbbinc.org. Basic tips from BBB for safeguarding against scams include: • Don’t send money to someone you have not met • Never click on links or attachments in unsolicited emails or texts • Don’t trust the legitimacy of something by its looks • Don’t trust your caller ID • Buy online only from legitimate sources • Look up companies • Treat your personal identification information like gold • Don’t give in to pressure to act quickly • Get details in writing • Don’t overshare on social media • Keep your travel plans to yourself • Shred sensitive information • Monitor your accounts • Use strong passwords BBB is a not-for-profit, business-supported organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. BBB services to consumers are free. Visit BBBinc.org for more information.

CEO of the American Marketing Association Visits Lincoln Chapter

reACH out toDAY 402.480.6950 thewaterford.net

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Strictly Business MARCH 2024

Bennie Johnson, CEO of the American Marketing Association (AMA), visited the Lincoln chapter of the national organization for a speaking event on Thursday, February 8. As part of AMA Lincoln’s monthly lunch-hour Signature Speaker series, Bennie held a brief presentation to local marketing and advertising professionals. He pointed toward tools like artificial intelligence as an example of how fast things can change, reminding the crowd that imagination and embracing the dynamism of our world are critical for modern marketers. The evening before the event, AMA Lincoln hosted an exclusive dinner with Bennie and a collection of Lincoln marketing leaders from companies and agencies in the surrounding area. Bennie was named CEO of the American Marketing Association in late 2022 and has made great strides in his time with the organization, visiting chapters across the country for events similar to the one held by AMA Lincoln. “It was a great honor to have Bennie visit Lincoln,” says current president of AMA Lincoln Mandy Peterson. “He’s an incredible leader, and it was wonderful giving our members the opportunity to connect with him. Events like this also serve as a good reminder for our members that we aren’t just a local organization — when you’re an AMA member, you get a whole host of national benefits as well!” For more information about American Marketing Association Lincoln, visit amalincoln.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS

ALLO Business – Elevate Your Connectivity Experience In the fast-paced world of business, time is a precious commodity. Recognizing this, ALLO Fiber continues revolutionizing how businesses connect by offering a seamless online experience for cuttingedge internet and voice services. Building on the success of their recent initiative allowing businesses to sign up online, they're excited to delve deeper into the unparalleled features of their fiber internet and phone services. Businesses can now harness the power of ALLO's 100% fiber-optic network by visiting AlloFiber.com/GetBusiness. Entrepreneurs can effortlessly explore and sign up for lightning fast internet and crystalclear voice services without the need for high-pressure sales tactics or unwelcome surprises. ALLO is committed to saving you both time and money, making the transition to high-speed connectivity a breeze. Their fiber voice services go beyond the basics, offering multiline hunt groups, conference premium auto attendant, one shared/group voicemail and more. Additionally, businesses can opt for a range of optional features to tailor their communication needs. When it comes to the internet, choose from robust options like 500 Mbps or up to 100 GIGs, with the added benefit of a complimentary wireless router to enhance your connectivity experience. At ALLO, they understand that your business demands more than just internet and voice services. As you customize your package, express your interest in additional ALLO Business offerings, including fiber TV, managed services, cybersecurity, next-gen firewall and cloud phone service. Their dedicated ALLO Business representatives are poised to collaborate with you to build a comprehensive solution that aligns perfectly with your business goals. For those navigating a busy start to the year, their online platform simplifies the process, allowing you to construct your tailored package with ease. With ALLO's 100% fiber-optic network, redefine your business operations and never settle for business as usual. For more information about ALLO, go to AlloFiber.com or call (402) 480-6500.

The Search Continues...

...See page 23

NEBRASKA LTC PHARMACY A PHARMACY FOR EVERYONE!

James Arthur Vineyards to Host Macramé & Wine Event March 15 Tickets are now on sale for James Arthur Vineyard’s (JAV) popular Macramé & Wine event in their tasting room at 6 p.m. on Friday, March 15. Join JAV and Urban Legends Art Studio for a fun, spring-themed night of macramé artmaking while sipping your favorite JAV wine! Tickets are $45/person and include first glass of wine and appetizers. Take home your creation! Go to jamesarthurvineyards. com/macrame-wine-march-15 to purchase tickets. Established in 1996, James Arthur Vineyards is nestled amidst 400 acres of rolling hills and natural prairie grasslands minutes north of Lincoln near Raymond, NE. The surrounding beauty creates a picturesque setting for their winery, which houses an immaculate tasting room, a gift shop, a stunning party room and all the production facilities. Since opening its front doors, JAV has hosted thousands of visitors from all over the world. Everyone is encouraged to sample from a wide variety of wines, stroll the grounds or sit under the covered deck by the waterfall – or enjoy an intimate setting by a warm crackling fire in the tasting room during those cold winter days, all while sipping some of Nebraska’s finest. For more information about the vineyard and their events, go to jamesarthurvineyards. com or call (402) 783-5255. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Free Home Visit Consultation by a Pharmacist + Free Delivery + Free Blister Packaging + Free Expired/Old Medicine Disposal + On Site Vaccines + No Automated Systems, Just Great Care!

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The Career Pathway Network CareerPathway.com is a network that brings Businesses, Educators, and Students together for the purpose of showing Students what each profession does and giving them advice on how to get there.

Promote Your Business Businesses sign up to promote themselves through video and photo content. Students in the network are introduced to industry specific content straight from the professionals, and from there are shown the opportunities for moving into that career. This means CareerPathway.com is an easy way to teach potential hires about what you do.

Educate The Emerging Workforce Educators can use CareerPathway.com in the classroom as a tool to help Students in their career exploration journey. While Students are exploring the amazing opportunities the world has to offer, they are building their resume and portfolio to be shared with industry professionals.

Empower Students Students want to be successful! With the freedom to privately search any career they choose, it’s important to show them what they need to know to get started in your industry. CareerPathway.com makes it easy for them to reach out when the time is right for them to take the next step. Have your opportunities ready.

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Strictly Business MARCH 2024

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BUSINESS NEWS

Transform Your Outdoor Space

TFLC Announces Urgent Need to Talk to Youth About Enticing Flavored Tobacco Products

Imagine your ideal outdoor space and start living it with the help of Eagle Nursery! We are a full service company dedicated to quality work, materials, & integrity service.

Tobacco Free Lancaster County (TFLC) wants adults to understand the importance of talking to young people about flavored tobacco products and is here to help you better understand the dangers and adequately prepare for the discussion. According to the 2023 National Youth Tobacco Survey, almost 90% of youths currently using e-cigarettes use flavored e-cigarettes. These flavors (fruit, mint, menthol, candy, sweets, etc.) are influential in the initial uptake of e-cigarettes (and other tobacco products) and in continued usage. In addition to finding these flavors appealing, youths and young adults wrongfully perceive the flavored products as less harmful compared to non-flavored ones. Flavors increase the risk of addiction and the chemicals used to achieve these flavors contribute to other health problems associated with tobacco product use. Talking with youths about flavored e-cigarettes should be done with caution. It is essential that talking about it does not fan the flames of curiosity which is one of the reasons youths give for trying out tobacco products, including e-cigarettes. It is also important to have access to cessation resources for youths who might be considering quitting tobacco use. Helpful resources on flavored tobacco products can be found under ‘Menthol and Other Flavors’ and ‘Cessation’ at tobaccofreelancastercounty.org/resources. Funding provided by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services/Tobacco Free Nebraska Program as a result of the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement. For more information about Tobacco Free Lancaster County, visit tobaccofreelancastercounty.org.

Sip Nebraska, A Blur Event, to Host 11th Anniversary Spring Festival May 10 - 11 Ashland, Nebraska - Sip Nebraska is pleased to announce that the 11th anniversary Spring Festival will be held May 10 & 11 at Mahoney State Park. Discover over 22+ wineries, breweries and distilleries from all over Nebraska and enjoy unlimited wine, craft beer, hard cider and spirits tastings, the largest attendance of local beverages in the festival in 11 years! From as far west as Scottsbluff and Imperial to Syracuse and Omaha, take your favorite drink home by purchasing a glass, bottle or six-pack. In addition to drinks, enjoy live music, artisan vendors, a tasty tour of the food truck alley, goat yoga and Sip and Learn sessions. Have fun playing lawn games, or explore the beauty of Mahoney State Park in springtime on a trolley tour. Find the complete list of activities, food vendors, musicians and more on Sip Nebraska's Facebook (@sipnebraska) and Instagram (@sipnebraska) and Sip Nebraska website, blurevents.com/sip-spring. To reserve your destination getaway and stay at Mahoney State Park, contact the Sip team at (402) 882-2448 to reserve lodging. For sponsor and vendor opportunities, contact Stacy at stacy@ blurevents.com or (402) 882-2448. Every spring and fall, Sip Nebraska brings together a community of local wine, craft beer, spirits and their fans to celebrate Nebraska's beverage industry. For more information about Sip Nebraska's eleventh annual festival or to purchase tickets, visit Sip Nebraska's website, blurevents.com/sip-spring. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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

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STAR CITY SIX

EUNICE

Eunice Oladeji

LINCOLN-LANCASTER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT Meet Eunice Oladeji, Tobacco Prevention Public Health Educator at The LincolnLancaster County Health Department. Tell us a little about your business. - Through our partnership with the Tobacco Free Lancaster County Coalition (tobaccofreelancastercounty. org) and collaborations with diverse community partners, we aim to educate every member of the community about the dangers associated with tobacco use and exposure, reduce youth initiation and offer effective resources for quitting and strive to transform Lancaster County into a community free from tobacco. How did you get started in the business? - My work in clinical medicine, especially as an emergency care specialist, increased my passion for preventive public health as I attended to and managed several cases of chronic health conditions presenting with complications that were attributable to inadequate health literacy, poor health-seeking behavior and inadequate health education. This informed my decision to get a Master of Public Health. Following this, I worked as a Community Outreach Specialist and Research Assistant with the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health. This gave me the needed initial opportunity to get into the public health space and work directly with the community within the community and outside the walls of a medical center. I then worked as an environmental health educator with a focus on providing the community with education and resources surrounding proper waste management and how it affects individual and community health. This provided the bridge to my current role, an opportunity to educate people and raise awareness about the health and environmental impacts of tobacco use – a risk factor for many chronic health conditions.

Before

After

Your Destination for carefully curated gifts, pottery, home decor and so much more.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - While public health aims to promote and protect the public’s health, I have learned that it also means working with the people despite their hesitations, doubts, biases, misinformed conclusions and sometimes their resistance to change. This means that no matter how beneficial our intents in the tobacco prevention program and/or in other public health related programs are to the target population, we should be mindful of people’s autonomy and the need to get to that point where they are ready and willing to change/take up the desired positive behavior. The clash of individual autonomy with the general safety and wellbeing of the community/public is an unending challenge in our profession. We are tasked with the job of finding the middle ground that works for the benefit of all. Tell us a little about your family. - My husband and I currently parent a 15-month-old Border Collie Mix with a lot of energy and personality.

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Strictly Business MARCH 2024

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Get comfortable with a book or movie. Who inspires you? - I draw inspiration from other public health practitioners who are doing amazing work in their communities. I also look at the fictional worlds from movies and books to figure out what barriers and challenges there are that make those seemingly ‘perfect’ scenes difficult to repeat in the real world. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 441-4108 | eoladeji@lincoln.ne.gov | tobaccofreelancastercounty.org #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

MARTA

Marta Plumlee

UNION BANK & TRUST Meet Marta Plumlee, Branch Manager at Union Bank Place, 1248 O St. in Lincoln. Tell us a little about your business. - Union Bank Place is in the heart of downtown Lincoln at 13th & O. It was very important for Union Bank to breathe new life into this iconic building and re-establish it as a hub for small businesses, better serve the people who want to do banking downtown, support the arts and be a part of this vibrant community. This historical building, designed by the renowned I.M. Pei and Associates, opened in 1976. It began its “new life” in August 2023 when UBT reopened the lobby with a full-service bank, Stories Coffee Company, our small business hub, a pop-up shop featuring local small businesses, new seating area with Wi-Fi and a community conference room. It’s brighter, has more technology and we’re so happy to welcome everyone into the space! How did you get started in the business? - What started as a part-time teller job while I was in college has become a decadelong career. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Moving from large, corporate banking that was very numbers-driven to UBT, a community bank that focuses on the relationships and the community we serve. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Becoming a Branch Manager at Union Bank Place only four months into my career at Union Bank & Trust. Tell us a little about your family. - Most of my family lives in Poland so our holiday gatherings here are rather small but I am beyond lucky to have my grandma, mom and daughter here with me. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Moving from Poland to the United States in 2005. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Spending time with my daughter. Who inspires you? - My grandmother, mother and daughter. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Focus on the 85% that is going well and not on the other 15%.” If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Helpful. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - The ability to slow down time. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I cannot imagine doing anything else. What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Since learning about BraveBe Child Advocacy Center, they have become my passion project and have all my support. As a mother, I cannot comprehend what families go through when a child is affected by a crime and to be able to support them in even the smallest way is an honor. What is your favorite TV show? - To Catch a Smuggler. What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Casa Bovina. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Johnny Cash. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 323-1674 | marta.plumlee@ubt.com #PrintProudDigitalSmart

DISCOVER THE POSSIBILITIES with Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska Join us for a free lunch and tour of our mission and discover how Mosaic pursues opportunities for people with disabilities in our communities. Tours are held on the third Wednesday of each month from 12–1 p.m. For more information, contact Amber Nore at amber.nore@mosaicinfo.org or 402.617.5932.

ALL YOUR EXTERIOR NEEDS

Siding · Soffit · Fascia · Aluminum Cladding · Decks FREE ESTIMATES!

Uriah Sawyer

(402) 601-3657 sawyerexteriors@gmail.com

MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

STAR CITY SIX

SHAUN

Shaun Vail

HONEST ABE’S BURGERS AND FREEDOM

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Building

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Commercial, Employee Benefits, Life, Health, Home, Auto, and More Kevin Harrington kevin@fumafinancial.com 402-253-6926

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Jennifer Larabee

Jennifer@fumafinancial.com 402-560-0047

mkavan@fumainsurance.com | fumafinancial.com

Strictly Business MARCH 2024

Meet Shaun Vail, the General Manager at Honest Abe's Burgers and Freedom (Meadowlane). Tell us a little about your business. - We are a local gourmet burger joint that’s been open for almost 12 years. How did you get started in the business? - I moved here in 2013 and needed a job. My cousin was the General manager at the time and helped me get my foot in the door. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Trying to keep up with the ever growing and changing economy for a small business like ours. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Helping my company create systems for a company that is always expanding. Tell us a little about your family. - I’ve been with my wife for around 15 years. We have a nine year old son and a 18 month old daughter. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Moving from Florida to Nebraska to start a new life. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - On my day off I like to spend time with my kids. We watch a lot of movies and TV shows together. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I have a very large vintage action figure collection. Who inspires you? - My kids inspire me. Everything I do is for them. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - The difference between being ordinary and extraordinary is the little bit extra. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Caring. If you had a theme song, what would it be? - Probably “Higher” by Creed. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Teleportation. Would save so much time in my daily life lol. What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Singing. Ive been a vocalist for most of my life and was in choir through my entire school years. Which talent would you most like to have? - I’d like to learn how to play the piano. Just seems super interesting to me. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I’d say either architecture or psychology. What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Give Kids The World. I worked for Perkins for the majority of my career before working here and I think anything that will help the future of our world is very important. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I really love the Percy Jackson series. What is your favorite movie? - Too many to choose. I’m a huge fan of Comic book movies and thrillers. What is your favorite TV show? - Way too many to choose. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - svail@grounduprestaurants.com #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

BRYAN

Bryan Davis

WE ARE the Solution to Your Collection Needs.

PEOPLE’S CITY MISSION Meet Bryan Davis, Vice President of Operations at People’s City Mission. Tell us a little about your business. - Since 1907, People's City Mission is Lincoln's primary homeless shelter housing 350 men, women and children on an average day. Really, there isn’t anything the Mission doesn’t do. Every day, we also offer free food, clothing and household goods at our help center and free dental and chiropractic care at our clinic. How did you get started in the business? - I grew up in rural Nebraska and then worked overseas in international development for 27 years. During that time, my wife and I raised our family in Senegal where we started a nationwide school system. I also earned a PhD in education from UNL to help meet the need for training teachers. There is a lot that my experience overseas has done to prepare me for this new position at People’s City Mission. At heart, people everywhere have the same concerns, but are served best when we recognize their individual situation. Of course, every day at the mission I see and learn new things about human services. I work with amazing professionals who are dedicated experts at what they do. I know they’ve gone the extra mile to help me learn the ropes. This is truly an exciting new path for me to help people in need change their lives right here in my homeland! Tell us a little about your family. - My wife, Laura, and I met during our high school years in the Omaha area. We were married thirty years ago and left for Senegal almost as newlyweds. We raised our twins in Senegal, where they grew up going to school in French. Later, they did boarding school at an international high school about 10 hours from where we lived in the northern part of the country. The twins will graduate from college together in Minneapolis later this year. Laura has always been passionate about teaching English to adult learners, specializing in those who do not read their first language. She recently connected with teaching English to people settling in Nebraska from Afghanistan. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - We were ready to work in Senegal until retirement and had even built a house there. However, we realized a couple of years ago we had worked ourselves out of a job because the people running the school system were doing an amazing job! The decision to leave Senegal was a major turning point in my personal history, and a very difficult decision to make. The decision about what to move on to next was almost as tough. We considered a few opportunities in different parts of the world, but were approached by Pastor Tom Barber (CEO of People’s City Mission). I was already familiar with People’s City Mission since my college internship with Pastor Tom back in 1994. It was in December of 2022 that we took the plunge and returned to Nebraska. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - My wife and I like to go walk around the lake. What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Over the years in Senegal I learned to speak Wolof, the language used in our part of the country. I used to spend long hours at construction sites only speaking Wolof with workmen all day long. Since returning to Nebraska, I’ve only used Wolof one time! If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I was almost a professor rather than coming to work at People’s City Mission. Of course, we know coming here was the thing to do! If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - BDavis@PCMLincoln.org #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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A local-family owned residential remodeling company that specializes in kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling as well as flooring install and repair.

402-853-6713 • ctconstructionlincoln.com MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

STAR CITY SIX

TREVOR

Trevor Ohlmann

CUSTOM COOLING & HEATING

Strictly Business MARCH 2024

Meet Trevor Ohlmann, Replacement Manager at Custom Cooling & Heating. Tell us a little about your business. - Custom Cooling & Heating has been serving Lincoln and the surrounding small towns for over 40 years. We specialize in residential replacement, residential new construction and residential service. We do a variety of other work such as minisplits, commercial install, commercial service and fume extraction. How did you get started in the business? - My dad was has worked at Custom Cooling & Heating since I was a baby. He eventually became part owner and then sole owner. I guess you could say I grew up around the business. I started working here during my high school summer and winter breaks. I went part time while I pursued I college degree but have been working full time again since 2019. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The biggest challenge our business has faced would be the inflation and supply chain issues associated with COVID-19. There were times when it was very difficult to source new equipment and replacement parts. This of course put a strain and both us and our customers. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I recently became licensed as a Mechanical Journeyman in the city of Lincoln. Required three full years of working as a registered Apprentice as well as passing a national and city code book test. This was an important step on my way to becoming a licensed Master Mechanical contractor. Tell us a little about your family. - I have been married to my wife for nearly five years. She is also from the Lincoln area and works at a local print shop in downtown Lincoln. We have a wonderful two year old daughter. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Definitely the birth of my daughter. Having a child changes your outlook on life and your career. She has motivated me to strive for more. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Relax and spend time with family. Also find some time to play video games. Who inspires you? - I’m inspired to be my best by my wife and daughter. It’s a lot easier to get up for work everyday when you are focused on providing the best life for both of them. They both inspire me to be my best in my personal and professional life. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take - Wayne Gretzky” - Michael Scott. Albeit a dumb joke from my favorite TV show, I think this in a great way to think about life and business. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Dependable. What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - I used to really enjoy drawing and wasn’t half bad at the time. Unfortunately this skill isn’t really something used much at work. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Zookeeper or vet. I have always enjoyed being around animals and a career involving them sounded intriguing. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - What If? By Randall Munroe is fun and interesting read. Recommend if you enjoy science, math or ridiculous questions. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - customcooling.net | (402) 489-9227 #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

ALYNN

Alynn Sampson

MATT TALBOT KITCHEN & OUTREACH Meet Alynn Sampson, Executive Director at Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach. Tell us a little about your business. - Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is a hunger relief and outreach center for the homeless and nearhomeless. Our mission is to relieve hunger, overcome homelessness, address addiction and provide outreach and advocacy in Lincoln. Everyone is welcome to walk through our open doors and get a prepared, nutritious meal two times a day, every day of the year. While on-site for a meal, guests can learn about the other outreach and homeless prevention services available at Matt Talbot such as housing, case management, assistance with acquiring vital identification documents, substance use counseling & evaluations, message/mail services for those who are homeless, shower and laundry services and assistance with basic and emergency needs. It is a safe and welcoming place where those who struggle can find respite, hope and pathways to greater self-sufficiency. How did you get started in the business? - I’ve been working in the non-profit world for 18 years. I’m a huge believer in justice and equity-particularly food justice, so to be able to find work doing something I’m so passionate about is such a win for me. I completed my graduate social work practicum at Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach and really connected with the organization and mission. After completing my practicum, I became a board member and served on the board until I became Executive Director in August 2023. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? The biggest challenge I’ve faced professionally is proving myself to myself. I am my biggest critic and can easily talk myself out of believing I don’t know something when in fact I do. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Realizing I have earned and deserve a seat at the table and I’m happy to bring my own chair. Tell us a little about your family. - My husband, Will and I have been married for almost 17 years and two children. Eli is 15 and attends East High School. He loves basketball and the Celtics and has turned his own mother into a big fan. Our daughter, Everly is eight and attends Robinson Elementary School. She is involved in competitive gymnastics and a Girl Scout. We are in the time period of Will and I spending most of our evenings and weekends transporting kids to and from different activities. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Sleep in, then wake up, sit on the couch with a cup of coffee and enjoy a quiet empty house. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I am fairly an introvert. I’m really great being “on” but once I’m done, I’m done and require lots of alone time to recover. Who inspires you? - So many people. My Mom has always inspired me. She’s a fierce independent woman who takes no crap and has always instilled me the value of working hard and standing up for yourself. My sister who makes motherhood look like a breeze when I know it’s not. She inspires me on the daily to be a better parent. She makes it look like you can do all the things and be in five places at once and be physical and emotionally present. And my two kiddos. They inspire me with their cleverness, quick wit, moments of compassion for others and love they have for carving out their own paths. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Alynn.sampson@mtko.org | (402) 817-0618 | www.mtko.org #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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...See page 29 MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

HUB CAFE - A UNIQUE

Dining Experience N

estled in the heart of Lincoln, the Hub Cafe crafts freshly-prepared and locally-sourced breakfasts, brunches and lunches. The Hub Cafe’s scenic location overlooking the picturesque Antelope Valley makes it a great place to hang out with family and friends while relaxing and enjoying great food. This unique setting sets the stage for a dining experience that goes beyond the ordinary.

During a recent visit, we had the pleasure of trying a variety of Hub Café’s unique menu items, which is full of delicious options – with none of them being quite what you would expect. From the first glance, it’s evident that this is not your typical dining establishment – traditional boundaries are pushed, and flavors are celebrated in unexpected ways. Starting with drinks, we enjoyed every sip of the refreshing iced chai, the bold richness of black coffee and the spice of a Bloody Mary garnished with a pickle, asparagus and onion. We couldn’t deny how great their drinks paired with their food. For our courses, we tried the French Toast made from Le Quartier bread with a sweet mix of citrusy fromage blanc, raspberry compote, toasted pecans and pure maple syrup. Next up was the Farm Egg Breakfast Sandwich, which has a local egg cooked over easy, muenster cheese, balsamic roasted red onions, aioli and greens, all packed into a warm, homemade buttermilk biscuit. The Savory Breakfast Bowl followed shortly after, containing a mix of quinoa tabouli, black beans, braised kale, house-made sunflower tahini, citrusy/ginger carrots, pickled red cabbage, a bit of spicy sambal for some kick and topped with an over easy local egg. If you’re into hearty flavors, the Pork Belly Gyro Bowl is a crispy combo of locally raised pork belly, quinoa tabouli, pickled red cabbage, fresh cucumbers, apple tzatziki made in-house and Dutch Girl Creamery feta. The Kale Salad added some freshness to the mix with beets, quinoa, Dutch Girl Creamery feta and pepitas, all tossed in an orange/shallot vinaigrette. The Mole Chilaquiles, one of the many internationally inspired creations by the chef, have adobo pork shoulder and corn tortilla chips in a smoky mole sauce, topped with Calypso Feta, pickled onion & cilantro and served with black beans. To finish, the Prairie Soup added a cozy touch to the chilly day. Our dining experience at Hub Café exceeded expectations. Despite initially ordering more than we could manage, the pleasant surprise of larger-than-expected portions left us delighted. Choosing Hub Café is not just about receiving a satisfying meal; it’s an invitation to break away from the ordinary. Here, you can anticipate not only health-conscious options with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and chefdriven dishes, but also a unique experience that sets Hub Café apart from the rest.

www.hubcafelincoln.com

402-474-2453 • 250 N. 21st Suite 3, Lincoln, Nebraska 68503

Strictly Business MARCH 2024

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PERSONNEL NEWS UNICO Group Announces Strategic Leadership Transition to Support Long-Term Growth and Independence UNICO Group, a client-focused insurance broker, has officially announced the transition of key leaders, effective January 1, aimed at supporting the company's long-term growth and independence. The new leadership structure is designed to reinforce the company's commitment to strategic vision, operational excellence and sustainable growth. The UNICO Shareholders have appointed Tom Champoux, Ric Stoakes, Shane Ideus, Neal Lyons, Ryan Swinton and Chad Ideus as members of the 2024 Board of Directors. Tom Champoux, a seasoned professional renowned for his comprehensive risk management and consulting services, will assume the role of Chair of the Board. In this capacity, he will provide strong governance guidelines and spearhead the development of board committees, ensuring robust oversight and strategic guidance. In line with the restructuring, the Board of Directors have announced the recalibration and appointment of two executive leadership roles. Ric Stoakes, a visionary leader with a proven track record, will take on the role of CEO, providing enhanced strategic vision and alignment at UNICO. His focus will also extend to leadership over the Executive team and fostering key relationship management with strategic partners. Shane Ideus will assume the position of President, bringing a focus on accelerating financial performance, providing organizational clarity and driving strategic initiatives. Shane will also provide leadership to core functions such as the operations, sales and marketing teams. These strategic leadership transitions have been carefully designed to fortify UNICO’s infrastructure, ensuring it is robust enough to support the current growth trajectory and future company goals. The new leadership team is poised to drive operational excellence, foster strategic partnerships and capitalize on emerging opportunities, positioning UNICO for sustained success and growth in the dynamic marketplace. UNICO Group is a client-focused insurance broker headquartered in Lincoln. Their consultative and relational approach develops customized solutions for clients all around the nation. For more information, call (402) 434-7200 or visit unicogroup.com.

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https://www.caringfriends.com MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

PERSONNEL NEWS Lincoln Federal Savings Bank Proudly Announces 2024 Promotions Lincoln Federal Savings Bank would like to congratulate the following employees on their 2024 promotions: • Ryan Trausch - Vice President, Loan Servicing Manager • Mark Desilets - Vice President, Mortgage Loan Underwriter / Credit Analyst • Grant Carter - Vice President, Loan Officer • Melissa Reinsch - Vice President, Deposit Banking Manager • Brian Bock - Vice President, Business Development Officer • Jason Hanna - Vice President, Senior Credit Analyst • Derek Wiedenfeld - Vice President, Loan Officer • Katie Thompson - Vice President, Mortgage Loan Officer • Ben Huber - Assistant Vice President, Loan Officer • Heather Merrill - Assistant Vice President, Loan Servicing • Eric Bertrand - Assistant Vice President, Mortgage Loan Officer • Robyn Drudik - Assistant Vice President, Consumer Loan Officer • Jamie Mayolo - Assistant Vice President, Accounting and Operations Specialist Each of these individuals embodies Lincoln Federal Savings Bank’s motto, ‘Personal Banking Like You Remember,’ through and through by delivering an unmatched customer experience whether on the front lines or behind the scenes improving processes and systems. The corporate office can be found at 8400 Maddox Dr. Additional locations are in Omaha, Fremont, Blair, Holdrege, Hastings, North Platte, McCook and Benkelman. Learn more at lincolnfed.com. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

Strictly Business MARCH 2024

Meet Capital Care Staffing's New Sales Representative, Alicia Ferris As Capital Care Staffing reaches new goals, they are excited to announce the growth of their sales department. Their new Sales Representative, Alicia Ferris, will be traveling all over Nebraska to meet with new partners and offer the helpful opportunities that Capital Care Staffing offers. They are dedicated to neighbors and communities. Staying local, shopping local and serving local is their top priority. Capital Care Staffing is here to offer highly qualified RNs, LPNs, Med Aides and CNAs to all of Nebraska's Long-Term Care Homes, Assisted Living Communities, Rural and Major Hospitals, Specialty and Family Clinics and so much more. If your healthcare establishment needs a dependable staffing team to help fulfill open shifts, let them know! Alicia would be more than happy to meet with you! She’ll be visiting current partners, too! They are always caring, and always here. Capital Care Staffing strives to provide quality healthcare professionals and workers to partnered clients, customers and families. They focus exclusively on the dynamic of a team-integrated workforce and back healthcare professionals and workers with continuous education and accountability to keep the workplace healthy, happy and safe. Learn more at www.capitalcarestaffing.com.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Five New Team Members Join North Risk Partners’ Omaha Office Effective December 28, five team members from Aon Risk Services Inc. in Omaha joined North Risk Partners, one of the largest independent insurance brokers and risk advisory firms in the Midwest. North Risk Partners purchased a book of business from Aon Risk Services Inc., bringing in five new team members with over 150 years of insurance experience between them, including: • Dan Wenzl, Risk Advisor • Marilyn Roof, Sr, Account Manager – Commercial Lines • Liz Hudson, Sr. Account Manager – Commercial Lines • Gina Anderson, Sr. Account Manager – Commercial Lines • Michele Morrison – Dept. Supervisor – Commercial Lines and Employee Benefits Clients from this book purchase now have access to North Risk’s wide array of capabilities and insurance companies in the areas of commercial insurance, employee benefits and personal insurance. Additionally, clients who are employers will now have access to the firm’s value-added services in the areas of human resources, health and safety and more. “We are very excited to welcome this group of skilled individuals to our team,” said Lisa Daniels, V.P. of Employee Benefits, Risk Advisor and Partner. “Their many years of experience in commercial lines, employee benefits and bond accounts will be a great addition to our Omaha office." For more information about North Risk Partners, please call (402) 592-7777 or visit www.northriskpartners.com. Pictured from left to right: Nolan Bald, Lori Nielsen, Jodi Schultz, Michele Morrison, Cat Baldwin, Lisa Daniels, Liz Hudson, Gina Anderson, Marilyn Roof, Candace Chapman, Dan Marburg, Dan Wenzl

Lincoln Medical Acupuncture Welcomes Vicki Black, L.Ac., L.M.T. Lincoln Medical Acupuncture is pleased to welcome Vicki Black to their team. Vicki is a Licensed Acupuncturist and Licensed Massage Therapist with more than 20 years of experience. She received her Master of Science in Oriental Medicine from Southwest Acupuncture College in Boulder, CO. Vicki’s areas of focus include pain management, auto-immune disorders, sports, pre- and post-operative care, as well as mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, insomnia and PTSD. Vicki joins fellow acupuncturists Dr. Sabrina Cerny and Joli Kepler, L.Ac., and is currently accepting new patients. Lincoln Medical Acupuncture offers an integrative approach to care by combining evidence-based Western Medicine with Acupuncture to improve overall health. Lincoln Medical Acupuncture is a program of Lincoln Medical Education Partnership located at 4600 Valley Rd. Appointments are available Mondays through Fridays, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. To schedule an appointment, call (402) 327-6973. For more information, visit www.lincolnmedicalacupuncture.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

The Lincoln Community Foundation Welcomes Three New Members to Board of Directors The Lincoln Community Foundation welcomes three new members to its board of directors: Susie Blue, retired Matt Talbot; Brett Ebert, Ball, Loudon, Ebert & Brostrom, LLC and Rhonda Seacrest, Community Advocate. Officers for 2024 include Mark Hesser, Board Chair, Pinnacle Bancorp, Inc.; Lauren Pugliese, Vice Chair, McCarthy Capital; Jasmine Kingsley, Secretary, Hudl; Ryan Beckman, Treasurer, Olsson, and Marilyn Moore, Past Chair, retired Bryan College of Health Sciences. The Lincoln Comm unity Foundation, established in 1955, strives to continually enrich the Lincoln community by promoting and achieving perpetual philanthropic support. They support nonprofit organizations that improve the city’s quality of life, and foster community collaboration to address challenges and opportunities. The Foundation serves as a faithful steward for many types of philanthropic gifts and helps donors create lasting legacies of giving. They have distributed more than $238 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of thousands of residents. To learn more, visit www.lcf.org.

The Bridge Behavioral Health Welcomes Board Members

The Bridge Behavioral Health is thrilled to welcome Ann Ringlein and Amy Schroeder to the Board of Directors. Ringlein is the Manager of The Lincoln Running Company and has been running three times per week with the clients of The Bridge over the past several years. Schroeder is a Financial Analysis and Tax Manager with Union Bank and Trust, bringing additional financial expertise to the board. Both have a strong passion for the mission of The Bridge. As these two join this dynamic group, Megan McKay is ending her six-year term as a board member. McKay served as Board President during her time, and her expertise has been greatly appreciated over the years. “We thank Megan for her years of service on the board for The Bridge Behavioral Health. Megan’s dedication, professional expertise and thoughtful insights have been assets as we navigated many changes in the past few years,” said Cathy Kottwitz, current Board President at The Bridge. The Bridge Behavioral Health is open 24/7, 365 days a year. Their mission is to provide hope and a strong foundation for recovery through substance use and behavioral health intervention. Programs include detox and medically monitored withdrawal, respite, residential treatment, outpatient counseling and substance use evaluations. Visit www.thebridgenebraska.org to learn more. MARCH 2024 Strictly Business 27

PERSONNEL NEWS i3 Bank Welcomes Two New Senior Vice Presidents

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Strictly Business MARCH 2024

i3 Bank is pleased to announce the hiring of two new Senior Vice Presidents serving the Lincoln branch located at 3933 S 14th St. Aaron Bell and Jason Peters have nearly 50 years combined experience in the Lincoln market, building strong relationships within the community and ensuring their clients’ financial needs are met. Aaron Bell is a respected Banker and Portfolio Manager with 25 years of expertise, improving the lives of his clients and the well-being of their businesses through financial solutions like originating commercial lines of credit, term loans and other deposit and lending products. Bell holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Finance and Marketing from the University of Nebraska at Kearney and attended the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Colorado Boulder. Jason Peters is also an accomplished Banker with over 20 years of expertise in relationship development, financial structuring and product consulting. Peters holds a Bachelors of Business Administration degree in Finance from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln and attended the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Colorado Boulder. His community involvement includes a position on the Board of Directors at Lincoln Lighthouse and on the executive committee chairing their annual golf fundraiser. i3 Bank provides financial services for personal banking, residential lending and business banking. With locations in Ashland, Bennington, Lincoln and Omaha, they’re here to serve with IMPACT, INTEGRITY and INNOVATION. Learn more at i3.bank.

Strictly Business Welcomes Jayda Lyon as New Art Director Strictly Business is excited to welcome Jayda Lyon on board as the magazine’s new Art Director. As the Art Director, Jayda will be responsible for paginating the magazine, designing advertisements and visual elements, managing press relations and quality control and updating online and digital media presences. Jayda is originally from Colorado Springs, CO. After playing basketball at Concordia University Nebraska for two years, she transferred to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in pursuit of degrees in both graphic design and marketing. In her free time, Jayda enjoys making YouTube videos, travelling and spending time with her orange cat, Otis, and Aussie-Blue Heeler, Mylo. She loves to walk her dog and spend as much time outside as possible. “I am so excited to start a new journey with Strictly Business. I love stretching myself creatively, and look forward to doing so in the Art Director position.” Please help Strictly Business welcome Jayda Lyon! Jayda can be reached at the office at (402) 466-3330 or by email at jayda@ strictlybusinessomaha.com. To view monthly articles and stories on Lincoln businesses and other local professionals, go online to strictlybusiness.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

PERSONNEL NEWS Farris Engineering Hires Dillon Ryan Following Graduation

Wyuka Funeral Home and Cemetery Hires New Family Counselor

Farris Engineering, Inc. welcomed Dillon Ryan, a seasoned Electrical Engineer, to their team. Dillon’s journey with the company began as an intern where he dedicated four summers honing his skills and familiarizing himself with the intricate workings of the company. His commitment and proficiency during these internships left an impression, paving the way for a full-time role upon his graduation. In December, Dillon earned his Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from the University of Nebraska, marking the culmination of his academic endeavors. His transition from intern to full-fledged engineer has been seamless, given his in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience gained during his internships. Dillon’s impact is already palpable, having contributed to the design of over 40 projects. His adeptness in navigating the complexities of electrical engineering makes him a valuable addition to Farris Engineering’s talented pool of professionals. “Dillon’s journey from intern to a pivotal member of our team exemplifies dedication and expertise. His passion for innovation and collaborative spirit are catalysts for success, shaping a future where Farris Engineering continues to thrive at the forefront of electrical engineering,” said Vice President and Electrical Department Manager Ericka Nienhueser. Farris Engineering is an industry leader in mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering. To learn more, visit farris-usa.com.

Wyuka Funeral Home and Cemetery is thrilled to welcome Judi Baer Peters to the Family Service Counselor Team. Judi has 10 years of experience in advanced planning of funeral and cemetery services. She brings a unique skill set to the family at Wyuka as well as the families they serve, helping to guide and educate families with the sometimes overwhelming choices they make planning their funerals in advance and the legacy they leave behind in this world. “When I tell people what I do for a living, the response is almost always the same, that it takes a special person to work at a funeral home,” shared Judi. “My response is that having this job has been both a pleasure and an honor for me. This industry has personally changed my life in many different ways. It has been so rewarding, and I am very grateful for this experience. Everyone in the funeral and cemetery business is special to me. The task of arranging a funeral at the time of passing and grieving is the hard part. Preplanning the final arrangement is a gift to your loved ones. The families that have prearranged all of the details of their final and personal Celebration of Life are always relieved. Wyuka Funeral Home & Cemetery is committed to preserving Wyuka Cemetery’s rich heritage and beauty. The cemetery is located at 3600 O St. For more information, call (402) 474-3600 or go online to wyuka.com.

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MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

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PERSONNEL NEWS SP Group, P.C. Welcomes 2024 Tax Season Interns

McGill Law Welcomes Amanda Patterson to Team

SP Group, P.C., a growing and entrepreneurialm i n d e d accounting firm, is pleased to introduce their tax season inter ns. From the University o f N eb ra s k a Lincoln: Jennifer Sedlacek, Addison Priess, Graesyn Buttler, Grant Nickles, Jameson Herzberg and Mikayla Wallace and from Nebraska Wesleyan: Bobby Simmons, all currently majoring in accounting. Jennifer Sedlacek, a second-year intern and a senior, returns in a supervisor role for their intern program. With an agricultural background, she has experience in small businesses which sparked her interest in accounting and tax law. Addison Priess, a junior with a passion for business and fashion drove her to pursue a degree in accounting and fashion merchandising. Graesyn Buttler, growing up in North Platte, NE, learned the importance of kindness and hard work and how these skills impact everyday situations. Grant Nickels, senior, was born and raised on the family farm in rural Murray, NE, which instilled the values of hard work while learning from real-life experiences. Jameson Herzberg, junior, active member and past officer on the Executive Team as Social Chairman of Farmhouse Fraternity, strives to give back to his community though philanthropic sponsored events. Mikayla Wallace, senior, brings a unique foundation of banking controls and regulations to their firm which couples well with tax preparation. Bobby Simmons, senior, plans to sit for the CPA exams but not before he finishes his final season as a pitcher for the Prairie Wolves baseball team. SP Group is excited to have these talented interns on their team for the 2024 tax season. To view full bios, visit spgrouppc.com/ meet-the-team. To learn more, follow S.P. Group, P.C. on Facebook (@SP Group, P.C.) and Twitter (@SPGroupPC) or call their office at (402) 420-7758. Pictured left to right: Addison Priess, Mikayla Wallace, Jennifer Sedlacek, Jameson Herzberg, Graesyn Buttler, Bobby Simmons and Grant Nickles.

McGill Law is thrilled to announce the addition of Amanda Patterson to the team! As Firm Administrator, Amanda's job is to enable the firm and its inner workings to operate efficiently and effectively. Amanda's kindness, calm energy and compassion are incredible assets to clients and fellow employees.

In addition to her work at McGill Law, Amanda is in the process of obtaining an MBA at Doane University after earning a psychology degree from UNO. As a mom of three, Amanda has a soft spot for puzzles, baking and, of course, football. Amanda’s days are a blend of books, shopping sprees with her daughter and the cheerful chaos of her kids’ sporting events. Amidst this lively mix, the family dog, Roxy, brings an extra dose of joy and a wagging tail to their daily adventures. Whether it's rooting for her children on the field or enjoying a quiet evening with a good read and her dog Roxy by her side, each day is a steppingstone towards a promising horizon for Amanda and her family. McGill Law is a woman-owned and operated family law ﬁrm practicing collaborative law, collaborative mediation, mediation and litigation. To contact McGill Law, call (402) 548-5418 or email info@ McGillLawyers.com. For more information, go to McGillLawyers.com.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Husker Rehab Celebrates Wellness Client Mary Frack Turning 95! Husker Rehab was excited to be able to help Mary Frack celebrate her 95th birthday in February. This also marked the 24th anniversary of her relationship with Husker Rehab. Mary started coming to use the exercise equipment at the North Husker Rehab location in March of 2001. Her routine included walking from her home followed by using the Nu-Step, Total Gym and hand weights, and then a walk home. Mary has been a daily part of Husker Rehab – Monday thru Friday. Her routine has changed a bit over the last couple of years and she no longer walks to the clinic, but instead walks 20 minutes on the treadmill and 20 minutes on the Nu-step. She attributes her wellbeing and continued independence to coming to work out on a daily basis. She often says if it wasn’t for coming to exercise at Husker Rehab, she knows she wouldn’t still be doing so well. Mary has become one of the Husker Rehab family, and getting to know her has been such a pleasure and privilege over the past 24 years. She has seen so many changes in her 95 years and can impart a lot of wisdom to the younger generation. Husker Rehab applauds and celebrates this wonderful strong woman and wishes her many more years of good health and happiness. For more information about Husker Rehab and their services, visit huskerrehab.com.

Union Bank & Trust Hires Deb Catherall Union Bank & Trust (UBT) is pleased to announce that it has hired Deb Catherall to the position of Vice President - Relationship Manager in the Retirement Plan Services (RPS) department. Catherall brings 26 years of relevant financial services experience to her new position, including a diverse background in various areas related to employee benefit programs. In her new role, she’ll provide responsive, timely service to RPS plan sponsors, implementing continual ongoing education and guidance on the multifaceted complexities involved with retirement plans, compliance testing, investment information, plan provisions and regulatory adherence. A graduate of the University of Nebraska with a bachelor’s degree in social work, Catherall is a licensed insurance agent with her Nebraska producer’s license in life and health insurance. She serves on the board of directors for the Nebraska Dream Factory. Union Bank & Trust is a privately owned Nebraska bank that offers complete banking, lending, investment and trust services, in addition to serving as program manager for Nebraska’s NEST College Savings Plan. The bank has 34 full-service and loan production offices in Nebraska and Kansas. It is the third-largest privately owned bank in Nebraska, with bank assets of $8 billion and trust assets of $46.1 billion as of June 30, 2023. Learn more at UBT.com.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Nebraska Community Foundation Welcomes Three New Employees Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) welcomed three new employees to begin the new year, further bolstering its talented team of professionals committed to building stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. Joining the staff are Becky Boesen of Lincoln, Becky Ries of Ord and Elizabeth Troyer-Miller of Wood River. Boesen will serve as NCF’s Hometown Intern Coordinator after having been a consultant for the program in previous years. Boesen, a Nebraska creative, has worked with NCF on numerous projects in the past, including asset mapping and the “Dream Switch” song cycle. Boesen has penned numerous plays and served as the lead of Nebraska Wesleyan University’s playwriting program. She is also the co-founder of Blixt Arts Lab, a Lincoln-based arts nonprofit dedicated to strengthening community, sparking curiosity and celebrating creativity through live theater and project-based education. A s N C F ’s n ewe s t A f f i l i a t e d F u n d Development Coordinators, Ries and TroyerMiller will work with volunteer leaders to build community awareness, conduct fundraising efforts and increase community impact through grantmaking and citizen engagement. Ries will serve as the Affiliated Fund Development Coordinator for north central Nebraska, where she has extensive nonprofit and fundraising experience. She served as the executive director for the Valley County Health System Foundation for a cumulative 12 years, where her responsibilities included fundraising, grant writing, marketing, public relations, donor stewardship and event coordination. Most recently, she was the Executive Director of Valley County Economic Development and the Ord Chamber of Commerce. Troyer-Miller joins NCF as an Affiliated Fund Development Coordinator for central Nebraska, bringing a bevy of nonprofit, community-building and mediation expertise. Before joining NCF, she served as Director of Community Impact for Heartland United Way. Prior to that, she worked as a Trainer for Nebraska Mediation Association and as a conflict specialist for Central Mediation Center. Troyer-Miller also has experience as a facilitator for the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation’s Youth Philanthropy Board and as a Coordinator for Heartland Disaster Recovery Group. Nebraska Community Foundation unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. In the last ﬁve years, 45,993 contributions have been made to Nebraska Community Foundation and its afﬁliated funds. Since 1994, Nebraska Community Foundation has reinvested $517 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org. At Strictly Business, we strive to recognize local professionals 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 at strictly-business.com.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Nebraska Safety Council Announces Awards Family Health Services Celebrated National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness the 46th Annual Conference Day on February 7 The Nebraska Safety Council is accepting applications for the Nebraska Safety Council Leadership, Safety and Worker 360 Awards. Applications are due this month. Visit the website for requirements and deadlines. Awards will be distributed at the 46th edition of the Nebraska Safety Council Annual Conference, April 24-25, in Lincoln. The conference features two days of speakers, breakout sessions and an opportunity to earn Continuing Education Credits. “A Nebraska Safety Council award gives businesses the recognition and affirmation they have earned for prioritizing safety and wellness,” says John Lefler, Jr., Executive Director for the Nebraska Safety Council. “There is no finish line in the drive to build strong, sustainable cultures that value safety, wellness and people. These organizations and the leadership that earn these awards are inspiring.” Applications for the Nebraska Safety Council Leadership, Safety, and Worker 360 Awards can be found at nesafetycouncil.org-Awards & Events. To learn more and register for the Annual Conference, visit nesafetycouncil.org-Annual Conference. The Nebraska Safety Council is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1961. Their mission is to provide leadership and resources to promote a safe and healthy environment in the workplace and community. To learn more about the Nebraska Safety Council, visit nesafetycouncil.org, call (402) 483-2511 or email info@ nesafetycouncil.org.

On February 7, National Black HIV/ AIDS Awareness Day, Family Health Services I n c . wa s r e m i n d e d of the importance of advocating for education, testing, involvement and treatment in communities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates approximately 1.2 million people in the U.S. living with HIV and about 13% are unaware. Though there is currently no effective cure for HIV, with proper treatment, and if caught early, people living with HIV have roughly the same life expectancy as their HIV-negative peers. Tools to stop HIV transmissions for good are also available. Family Health Services can help! They offer free HIV and STI/ STD tests to whoever needs them. Their caring and comprehensive providers are available Monday-Friday in Lincoln for all your reproductive health needs (preventative health screenings, cervical cancer screenings/PAPs, breast cancer screenings, contraceptives and many other services). Family Health Services is a nonprofit healthcare organization that serves people in nine southeast Nebraska counties. Patients can get reproductive healthcare on an income-based sliding fee basis. The clinic also accepts most private insurance, Medicaid and Every Woman Matters. They believe everyone should have access to reproductive and sexual healthcare regardless of ability to pay. Visit LoveSafely.com or call (402) 466-1012 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Community Action’s Gathering Place Seeking Socks, Gloves and Hats for Guests Community Action’s Gathering Place soup kitchen needs warm clothing items for its guests. Nebraska weather is notorious for changing quickly, and Community Action wants to ensure guests are prepared for those frigid temperatures. Currently, the mostneeded items are hand warmers, socks, gloves and hats – all of which can be donated to Community Action. “Providing warmth to Gathering Place guests helps them navigate their everyday life,” said Lisa Janssen, Gathering Place Administrator. “From catching the bus, to walking kids to school, to grabbing a to-go dinner at the Gathering Place, proper winter gear makes life a little easier on our Lincoln community. It’s a small thing that helps combat the complications winter can add to daily life.” Winter items can be dropped off Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Community Action’s office at 210 O St. in Lincoln. You can also visit Community Action’s website to order from the agency’s Amazon wish list and ship directly to Community Action. Groups, businesses, or organizations interested in organizing a donation drive should contact Sam Bates at sbates@communityactionatwork. org or (402) 875-9320. Community Action’s mission is to partner with our community in fearless pursuit of anti-poverty solutions so we all have the opportunity to live well. Programs and services address the causes and conditions of poverty in four impact areas: early childhood education, homelessness prevention, financial and family well-being and hunger relief and healthy food access. To learn more, visit www. communityactionatwork.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS Elevate Your Brand in the Healthcare Industry with Heartland Cancer Foundation’s 2024 Oncology Symposium

Vision Maker Media and The Ross Media Arts Center Announce Second Round of Native American Film Series 2024

Join Heartland Cancer Foundation in making a meaningful impact on the lives of cancer patients by becoming a sponsor for the 2024 Oncology Symposium. The Oncology Symposium to be held Wednesday, April 17, at the Southeast Community College Jack Huck Continuing Education Center, brings together healthcare professionals, advocates and industry leaders for an evening of education, networking and support. Sponsorship of the Oncology Symposium is an opportunity to showcase your commitment to corporate social responsibility, network with healthcare professionals and align your brand with a cause that truly makes a difference in the lives of cancer patients. Various sponsorship levels are available, allowing you to tailor your support to match your company's philanthropic goals. The Heartland Cancer Foundation is dedicated to ensuring that no cancer patient faces financial obstacles hindering their treatment. By becoming a sponsor, you contribute directly to its mission of providing immediate financial assistance to eligible cancer patients in our community, enabling them to focus on their healing journey without the burden of everyday expenses. As an event sponsor, you not only gain visibility and networking opportunities, but also become a vital part of a community-driven initiative to ensure that every cancer patient can focus on healing. To explore sponsorship options, please contact Chris Blum at chris@ heartlandcancerfoundation.org or visit heartlandcancerfoundation. org. Heartland Cancer Foundation’s mission is to provide practical and immediate financial assistance to eligible cancer patients in our community so they can focus on what matters most: healing. Learn more at heartlandcancerfoundation.org.

Vision Maker Media and The Ross Media Arts Center are thrilled to announce the second set of films of the Native American Film Series (NAFS) 2024 includes Return of the Sacred Pole and Medicine Woman. The first film tells the story of the Omaha tribe and its reclaiming of the sacred pole, its importance to their heritage, its stay at the Peabody and its return to its owners. What does it take to heal people? That’s the question at the heart of Medicine Woman, a one-hour PBS documentary interweaving the lives of Native healers of today with that of the first Native American doctor, Susan La Flesche Picotte. Screenings are March 11 at 7:10 p.m. at The Ross Media Arts Center. The NAFS features artist profiles, musical performances, family stories and documentaries on historical figures and traditions. Screenings will take place the second Monday of each month in 2024. Admission is free and open to the public. Shows and times are available at theross.org/events/native-american-film-series or via the Ross hot line at (402) 472-5353. The Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center brings independent, documentary, international and classic films to Lincoln and the University. Located at 13th and R streets, The Ross shows movies seven days a week and hosts events including visiting filmmaker talks, post-show discussions, theatre and opera broadcasts. Vision Maker Media envisions a world changed and healed by understanding Native stories and the public conversations they generate. For more information, visit visionmakermedia.org.

Voices of Hope Seeking Household Donations Voices of Hope is in need of household items such as cleaning supplies, trash bags and personal hygiene items for the individuals they serve. The result of receiving these donations gives them the ability to provide immediate relief to those in need, improving their quality of life and helping them navigate through challenging circumstances. Feel free to check out their website or visit their Amazon wish list to purchase items: www.amazon. com/hz/wishlist/ls/1VYTBX7R9ZO6F/ref=hz_ls_biz_ex. Voices of Hope has been a vital part of our community for over 40 years. Voices of Hope began in 1975 when the Lincoln Coalition Against Rape, a campus/community group, organized and began to provide a crisis line and support services for survivors of sexual assault. Before long, the group also began providing services for survivors of domestic violence. Voices of Hope’s vision is that all survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, as well as their families and communities, receive responsive, empowering services and support that meet their needs, both individual and cultural, through advocacy and education aimed at eliminating recurrence, challenging oppressive social institutions and reducing violence and oppression. Learn more at voicesofhopelincoln.org. 36 Strictly Business MARCH 2024

A Recap of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach’s 2023 Impact In 2023, Matt Talbot provided over 250,000 meals through onsite prepared meals, emergency food pantries and distribution of donated high-quality food – a 39% increase from the previous year. There was an average of 245 meals served during lunch and dinner each day. Additionally, over 50,000 outreach and homeless prevention services were provided, a 13% increase from the previous year. These services include case management, assistance with acquiring vital identification documents, housing, substance use services and support, message and mail services, shower and laundry services and assistance with basic and emergency needs. Approximately 25% of guests served at Matt Talbot are experiencing homelessness while others are housed but struggling in poverty. Because of volunteers’ dedicated support to Matt Talbot, an average of 596 unduplicated volunteers served each month in 2023. The total number of hours provided by volunteers in 2023 was 26,574. “Because of the amazing support of our community we've been able to increase our impact and help more people in Lincoln," said Alynn Sampson, Executive Director of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach. Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is a hunger relief and outreach center for the homeless and near-homeless with four main areas of focus: relieving hunger, defeating homelessness, addressing addiction and providing outreach. Learn more at mtko.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS Bright Lights Summer Camps Registration Opens March 2 Bright Lights Summer Learning Adventures announced their 2024 camp registration opens at 8 a.m. on March 2 at brightlights.org. The 2024 summer camps will take place over five weeks: June 3-7, June 10-14, June 17-21, June 24-28 and July 8-12. Roper Elementary School, 2323 S. Coddington Avenue, will be the main site with additional community locations around Lincoln. Before Care and Lunch Care services are also available at select locations. With almost 100 half-day and full-day camps to choose from this summer – 22 of them new – there is bound to be something of interest for almost every student. A few of the new camps include: • Fashion 101 Day Camp: Campers will create/sew two up-cycled pieces and photograph their work to create a magazine-style lookbook. • Jurassic Adventure: Dinosaur-loving campers can dig into discoveries of dinosaurs like the T-Rex, Triceratops and many more. • The Olympic Experience: A fun way for campers to get into the spirit of the games through sports and crafting as Paris hosts the 43rd annual Summer Olympics. There will also be returning favorites such as Hogwarts, French Cooking and LEGO® Robotics. Need-based scholarships are available on a first-come, first-served basis as long as funds are available. The application deadline is May 1. For a complete schedule, more information and to register, or for more information about Bright Lights, visit brightlights.org.

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CASA for Lancaster County to Host Be the Voice March 28 CASA for Lancaster County is excited to host their version of The Voice, Be the Voice Lincoln 2024, on March 28 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Screamers Family Restaurant. The proceeds of this fun event support the work of CASA volunteers. The event, patterned after the successful television program, involves 12 singing competitors and three local celebrity judges. Competitors will face off in blind auditions (90 seconds to perform a song of choice), with seven voices moving on to the finale where the audience will vote for the winner. There will be prizes for the top three contestants. If interested in participating in the event, please fill out the following google form: forms.gle/kfRoBJY32y4Vv6hJ6. CASA for Lancaster County is a local nonprofit that recruits, trains and supports community volunteers who advocate for the best interests of abused, neglected, truant and ungovernable children in Juvenile Court. CASA advocates are appointed by Juvenile Court Judges to be the voice of abused and neglected child. They advocate for the child’s best interests and communicate their wants and needs directly to the court. To learn more about how you or your business can support these efforts, visit www.casa4lancaster.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS Disability Rights Nebraska Clears Confusion Habitat for Humanity Lincoln’s 2024 Women Build for Habitat Builds Momentum about Assistance Animals with Free Resource The 2024 Women Build campaign is gearing up for a busy spring, b u i l d i n g h o m e s fo r families in Lincoln. This year, 100 women are joining forces to raise money and either help build a house or participate on a neighborhood clean-up project for Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln. The Women Build campaign began recruiting women in September 2023. All of the Women Build participants agreed to raise a minimum of $500 each and participate on the job site one day in May. The participants do not necessarily have construction backgrounds, but rather represent a wide range of industries in Lincoln including insurance, banking, manufacturing, education, real estate and more. “I love seeing women from different backgrounds come together to support other women,” said Deanna Walz, Habitat’s Director of Development and Marketing. “When you are the one responsible for putting a roof over your family’s head, it’s a big responsibility, and to see all of these incredible leaders come together is inspiring. Supporting sponsors for this campaign include Ameritas, Lincoln Journal Star and Mead Lumber. Additional information can be found at LincolnHabitat.org. Established in 1988, Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln has built or repaired more than 202 local homes. Through community partnerships, Habitat builds strength, stability and self-reliance alongside families in need of decent and affordable housing. Learn more at LincolnHabitat.org.

Disability Rights Nebraska recently published a free updated resource that offers legal answers for those with questions about service animals. “Can a landlord charge a fee for an assistance animal?” “What are your responsibilities if you own an assistance animal?” and “How are assistance animals protected in housing?” are all answered in their newly revamped Law in Brief Publication Assistance Animals and the Fair Housing Act. There is also information about when a person with a disability can bring their assistance animal into a store, a restaurant or other public spaces as well as the responsibilities the animal’s owner has to follow. These and more Americans with Disabilities Act related points are covered on the Service Animal Resources page of their website. People with disabilities often rely upon a working service animal or emotional support animal. These animals aren’t pets – they’re providing assistance to their owner and are protected under federal law. For example, Jax, pictured here, isn’t just a cute pet. Jax has been trained to detect a seizure before it happens so his owner, who has epilepsy, can be warned in advance to sit down and avoid injury if a seizure occurs. Since many rental properties have a “no pets” policy, federal laws like the Fair Housing Act have been passed to ensure Jax and his owner are protected. For assistance with a disability rights related issue or questions about the law and disability, call to speak with an advocate at (402) 4132016 / 1-800-422-6691 or contact Disability Rights Nebraska online at www.disabilityrightsnebraska.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Goodwill to Host 12th Annual Neighborhood Challenge

HopeSpoke Celebrates 75 years of Mental Health Services for Youth and Families

As garage sale season nears, Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. invites Lincoln neighborhoods to register for their 12th annual Neighborhood Challenge. This event encourages neighbors to donate unsold items from garage sales while competing for a chance to improve their community. Participating neighborhoods will receive a free, centralized donation pickup after spring and summer neighborhoodwide garage sales. After the pickup, Goodwill will weigh the donations. At the end of the summer, the three Lincoln neighborhoods that collect the greatest weight of donations exceeding 2,000 lbs will win a cash prize to improve their neighborhood. By donating to Goodwill, neighborhoods will support Goodwill’s mission of changing lives through the power of work. The revenue from Goodwill’s thrift stores in Lincoln helps fund local programs that assist job seekers as they overcome traditional barriers to employment. Goodwill also recycles many of the items it cannot sell. To sign up, email donate@lincolngoodwill.org or call (402) 7428456 with a preferred date, time and centralized pickup location. All Neighborhood Challenge pickups must be scheduled at least two weeks in advance, but Goodwill encourages associations to sign up as early as possible, because spots fill up quickly. For 92 years, Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. has been strengthening the Lincoln community by providing services for individuals who face barriers to employment and by offering residents a year-round outlet for donating clothing, electronics and household items. In 2022 alone, Goodwill diverted over 2.2 million lbs of materials from Lincoln landfills through community donations. To learn more about Goodwill, follow them on Facebook (@ LincolnGoodwill) or visit www.lincolngoodwill.org.

HopeSpoke proudly celebrates 75 years of providing mental health care for youth and families in our community. In response to community need for mental health care specific to the needs of children, the agency was founded in 1949 as Child Guidance Center by the Community Chest (precursor to United Way of Lincoln and Lancaster County) and Junior League of Lincoln. Today, HopeSpoke annually serves nearly 1,000 individuals of all ages, with an array of behavioral health services for children, adolescents and adults. In the past year, community supporters have helped provide the following: • Outpatient Services, including assessment, treatment planning and individual, family and group therapy services for youth ages one-19, as well as adults • Extended Day Treatment, an after-school program for ages five11, providing treatment for trauma and behavioral challenges • School-Based programs, with HopeSpoke therapists based within 15 Lincoln Public Schools at the elementary, middle and high school levels • A Therapeutic Group Home, offering a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach for boys ages 13-18 • Youth-in-Crisis, providing suicide assessments, transitional counseling and case management for youth detained at Lancaster County’s Youth Services Center Community support means mental health care is available for our community’s most vulnerable youth. Donations allow HopeSpoke to make sure no one is turned away due to inability to pay for services. Contributions toward HopeSpoke’s mission can be made at hopespoke.org/donate. For more information about mental health services available at HopeSpoke, visit hopespoke.org or call (402) 475-7666.

Fresh Start Welcomes New Team Members Fresh Start, a residential program for women experiencing homelessness, is excited to welcome three new staff members to the team. LaCresha Brooks is their Development Coordinator and is the new lead for charitable giving and community engagement, including volunteers and speaking opportunities. Ms. Brooks prior work experiences includes Habitat for Humanity and Ameritas. She shared “I always knew that being kind, empathetic and helping was an obligation. I am happy to have the opportunity to continue this through Fresh Start. To have this opportunity to advocate for women in my community and help them reach self-sufficiency is beautiful. My goal is to bring awareness about our program, nourish our donors and volunteers while cherishing the new relationships I build throughout the community.” Fresh Start also welcomes Crystal Zapata and Mandee Koeber as Program Support Staff. Ms. Zapata will provide safety and support during the overnight hours. She is motivated by helping others who are struggling, and looks forward to sharing her creativity with staff and residents. Ms. Koeber will provide general program support during afternoons and weekends. She has been volunteering with Fresh Start for the last few years, assisting with office tasks and donations. Ms. Koeber is an alumna of the program and shared, “Fresh Start is a place where women can start over again. I want to provide hope and help to those who come here.” To contact LaCresha for a speaker or other ways to get involved, email lacreshab@freshstarthome.org or call (402) 475-7777. For more information about Fresh Start services, please visit www. FreshStartHome.org or find them on Facebook. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Catholic Social Services Partners with FreeWill Catholic Social Ser vices of Southern Nebraska (CSS) know the importance of having will. To ensure peace of mind for both you and your loved ones, having a will is crucial. The knowledge that your wishes are documented can alleviate stress during an already difficult time and guarantee that your assets are managed according to your preferences. Despite the importance, many find the process of establishing or updating a will intimidating, complex and costly. To address these concerns, Catholic Social Services has partnered with FreeWill.com to introduce a user-friendly tool that enables you to create these vital documents at no expense. This initiative also offers you the chance to leave a Legacy of Faith for future generations by contributing to a charity like CSS in your will. You can visit the CSS website at csshope.org and access the link to create your will using this complimentary estate planning tool. In as little as 20 minutes, you can create your will, providing the opportunity to leave a Legacy Gift to CSS and perpetuate Hope in the Good Life for generations to come. For more information, contact John Soukup, CSS development officer at jsoukup@csshope.org or (402) 560-5014. CSS is a nonprofit organization that has been around for nearly a century helping people in need of all backgrounds and faiths across 24,000 square miles of southern Nebraska. CSS can be found at www.csshope.org. MARCH 2024 Strictly Business 39

NONPROFIT NEWS Realtors Association of Lincoln Holds 12th YMCA of Lincoln Elects Board, Annual Sock Drive for People’s City Mission Recognizes 2023 Award Recipients E ve r y ye a r, t h e Re a l t o r s Association of Lincoln coordinates a sock drive to benefit People’s City Mission and provide those in need in our community with warm socks. In 2023, they surpassed their goal and collected an unprecedented 44,500 PAIRS OF SOCKS! This year they met their goal of 24,000 pairs in 2024 within the first week of the drive. With 36 real estate businesses and banks participating, as well as a number of schools and nonprofits, the response has been overwhelming. Socks are the number one most requested item by the homeless. Clean, warm socks are essential to good foot health and overall health, so these socks are literally a lifesaver. Even though the drive has finished, it’s not too late to give. Since new guests are always coming to the Mission, they need socks all year long. You can donate new or gently used socks to their Help Center at 6800 P St., or purchase socks from their Amazon Wish List at the top of their homepage at pcmlincoln.org. People’s City Mission is incredibly grateful to Realtor’s Association of Lincoln! To view the results of the drive, go to lincolnrealtors.com/ ral-sock-drive. As Lincoln’s homeless shelter, People’s City Mission’s work is more than 97% funded by community donations. For more information or to donate, visit pcmlincoln.org.

Strictly Business MARCH 2024

The YMCA of Lincoln held its annual meeting last month to celebrate the organization’s accomplishments, honor its volunteers and corporate partners and ratify board members. Joining the YMCA of Lincoln Board of Directors in 2024 include: Daryl Bohac (Major General, USAF, Retired), Joseph Wright (Lincoln Public Schools), Shannon Fallon (Cline Williams) and Shawn Schulenberg (Hocking & Schulenberg, LLC) Officers for the 2024 Board of Directors include: Kelly Wieseler, Chair (Ameritas); Stacy Brass, First Vice Chair (Union Bank & Trust); Chris Lindner, Second Vice Chair and Treasurer (Forvis) and Matt Frederick, Secretary (UBS). The Executive Committee at Large includes: Kaye Jesske (Bridge to Better Living); Curt Hartter (Universal Surety/Inland Insurance); and Lori Druse, ex-officio (Deloitte & Touche LLP). The YMCA of Lincoln recognized Lincoln Track Club with the 2023 Corporate Partner Award, Frosty Chapman with the 2023 Outstanding Volunteer Award, and Griffey Borges with the 2023 Outstanding Youth Character Award. The YMCA of Lincoln has served the community for over 150 years, promoting positive values through programs that build spirit, mind, and body for all. To learn more about volunteering for the YMCA, visit YMCALincoln.org or contact your local YMCA branch.

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NONPROFIT NEWS

Life is a journey Nebraska Sports Council Launches Endowment make it amazing! Fund to Secure Future Sporting Excellence The Nebraska Sports Council (NSC) proudly announces the establishment of their Endowment Fund. Established with a vision for the future, it ser ves as a financial cornerstone for the NSC, ensuring sustained support for athletic initiatives, events and grassroots programs across the state. Driven by its mission to provide quality competition for amateur athletes of all ages and abilities while promoting healthy and active lifestyle choices, the NSC has been a catalyst for community engagement since its incorporation in 1985. Hosting 10 major events and programs, such as the Cornhusker State Games, Lincoln and Omaha Corporate Games, Pumpkin Run and the WellPower Movement, their initiatives benefit over 30,000 Nebraskans annually. The endowment's primary goal is to secure a lasting legacy, creating a perpetual source of funding for sports development. This permanent fund will be fueled by philanthropic contributions, sponsorships and community support, ensuring a lasting impact on sports development for generations to come. The NSC invites individuals, businesses and organizations passionate about sports development to join in supporting the Endowment Fund, contributing to a legacy that will inspire athletes and enrich communities across Nebraska. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, all gifts to the Endowment Fund are tax-deductible Your generosity ensures that future generations will continue to benefit from the positive impact of sports on physical and mental well-being, fostering a sense of pride and camaraderie that extends far beyond the playing field. For information on NSC’s Endowment Fund, visit NebraskaSportsCouncil. com/NSC-Endowment-Fund.

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

Payroll Solutions LLC FULL PAYROLL SERVICES BOOKKEEPING SERVICES SALES TAX REPORTING Terry Clark Payroll Manager

531-249-5800

Terry.Clark@tacpayrollsolutions.com

770 N Cotner Blvd STE 115, Lincoln, NE 68505

A TAC-tical and personal approach to your payroll solutions

Junior League of Lincoln Hosting Bracket Buster March 23 The Junior League of Lincoln (JLL, jll. org) is hosting their Bracket Buster event Saturday, March 23, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Alchemy Aqua Vitae. Join them for an afternoon of food, fun and basketball. Tickets are $30 and include entry, all you can eat and one drink. Learn more at lincoln.jl.org/events/register-jll-bracketbuster-event-tickets. JLL fosters the well-being of women and children in the Lincoln community through education, direct service and advocacy. They develop and implement tools and strategies for external communication, and aim to raise the profile of JLL in the community as a community-builder and premier volunteer organization. The Junior League of Lincoln is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Their purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. JLL is committed to inclusive environments of diverse individuals, organizations and communities. The Junior League of Lincoln uses their resources to provide for the growing and ever-changing needs of the community. To contact JLL, email juniorleagueoflincoln@gmail.com or call (402) 464-2050. Find out more at jll.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

No one life is the same. We understand that here at Wyuka. We are here to serve your family.

Here at Wyuka, it is an honor to care and a privilege to serve. We’re Wyuka Funeral Home and Cemetery, a place of rest.

MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

Strictly Business MARCH 2024

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NONPROFIT NEWS Christian Record Services Ready for Another Summer Camp Season

Pregnancy Center Lincoln Hosting Annual Partnership Dinner April 9

Do you know someone who is blind or visually impaired? Would they be interested in attending camp next summer with Christian Record Services (CRS)? Christian Record Ser vices has recently released its roster of summer camp locations as they prepare for another successful summer of camp experiences for children and adults who are blind or experiencing vision loss. This summer, campers may enjoy a plethora of indoor and outdoor activities at summer camps in eight different locations across the country. Activities included horseback riding, archery, water skiing, crafts, cooking and even a zip line over the lake. A previous camper commented that he was “amazed” at how the camp staff treated the people who were blind, saying “They treated blind people like the rest of the people here. Like human beings.” Since beginning in 1967, over 50,000 campers have experienced camps through National Camps for Blind Children, a program of Christian Record Services. Each camp is scheduled at a wellequipped site, chosen especially for the standard of excellence and geographical location. Committed staff and counselors are trained to meet the needs of legally blind campers who are between the ages of nine and 65. For more information on how to make this happen, please visit blindcamps.org. As CRS commemorates 125 years of service, it stands as a shining example of love, resilience and the transformative power of dedicated service. Learn more at www.christianrecord.org.

Pregnanc y Center Lincoln will be hosting their Annual Par tnership Dinner Tuesday, April 9. The doors open at 5:45 p.m. and dinner starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $50 per seat and can be purchased at pregnancycenterpartners.org. Included with your ticket is dinner as well as knowing that it supports the Ministry of the Pregnancy Center. Speaking at the event will be Dr. Mark Newman. Dr. Marc Newman is Founder and President of Speaker For Life, a training firm dedicated to equipping pro-life advocates nationwide with public speaking skills. He has spoken at nearly every major pro-life convention in the nation. He is the former Director of Speech and Debate at the University of California at Irvine, and currently teaches in the doctoral program in the School of Communication and the Arts at Regent University. He has trained speakers in the public and private sectors for over twenty-five years. In addition to training and teaching, he heads MovieMinistry.com – a site that helps Christians use movies to reach out to others. He has appeared on The O’Reilly Factor and in Time magazine. His articles appear on The Christian Post, Catholic Exchange and on hundreds of other websites. He lives in Tennessee with his wife, Sharon. The Pregnancy Center is a nonprofit, faith-based organization located in the heart of Lincoln. For more information, go to pregnancycenterlincoln.org.

Lincoln TeamMates Annual Recognition Inspires Many The Lincoln TeamMates annual Mentor Recognition, held on Febr uary 6, energized and inspired TeamMates mentors and mentees who look forward to this event all year long. Alongside more than 200 attendees at the Lincoln Station, they enjoyed delicious Valentino’s pizza and pasta, cheered on the award winners and heard inspirational speakers. The uplifting celebration was made possible by the Messineo Family, Co-Owners of Valentino’s, who sponsor the event. Condolences were given to the family as Tony Messineo very recently passed away, making the annual Carmen and Tony Messineo Community Involvement Award all the more meaningful. This Award, celebrating individuals and organizations who’ve shown long-time support for TeamMates, was presented to Barbara Bartles, local philanthropist, community leader and former President of the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools. In 1991, Bartle worked with Tom and Nancy Osborne to help them launch the TeamMates Mentoring Program, now 33 years old and 191 chapters strong. Keynote speaker, Tut Kailech energized and inspired the mentees and mentors through story, music and rap. The 2022 Young Lincoln Leaders Awardee and refugee from Sudan, spoke of mentoring, “We are truly building a village here; If it wasn’t for ‘the village’ I honestly wouldn’t know where I would be right now.” Kailech admonished, “Be who you needed when you were younger,” then concluded with a self-composed song and rap, encouraging youth to know, “You are beautiful the way you are, perfect with the battle scars!” For more information about partnering with TeamMates, contact Jim Bennett at (402) 436-1990. Additional information can also be found at LincolnTeammates.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Experienced local senior care for total peace of mind. PROVIDING: Bathing Assistance • Dressing Assistance • Grooming • Assistance with Walking • Medication Reminders • Errands • Shopping • Light Housekeeping • Meal Preparation • Friendly Companionship • Flexible Hourly Care • Respite Care for Families

402.735.0999 VisitingAngels.com/Lincoln MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

r u o Y t s Boo edibility r C e n i l n

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NONPROFIT NEWS Camp Quality Heartland Opens Registration Ag Day Celebration at the Lincoln for Week-Long Summer Camp July 7-12 Children’s Museum March 19 Camp Quality Heartland is excited to announce that registration is open for their week-long summer camp being held July 7-12. This camp is for kids impacted by pediatric cancer and their siblings. Camp Quality provides FREE year-round support activities for children with cancer and their families. Discover a safe place to have fun, be yourself and grow in a supportive community. Camp activities include: hiking and nature walks, scavenger hunts, archery, swimming and water fun, all-camp games, crafts and tie-dying, campfires and s’mores and so much more! Register below with the corresponding links: Campers: app.campdoc.com/register/campquality/campersc24htl Siblings: app.campdoc.com/register/campquality/sibsc24htl Staff: app.campdoc.com/register/campquality/staffsc24htl Camp Quality Heartland began in 1994 and is one of 19 camps in the Camp Quality USA family. Campers range from ages five through 17 and vary in stages of their treatment or remission. They are children who smile, laugh, play and have dreams for a bright future. Understanding that a cancer diagnosis impacts an entire family, their programming includes siblings as well. Surrounded by new friends that can relate, loving volunteers who care and loads of fun experiences, Camp Quality campers find joy, courage and renewed hope for their future. For more information contact heartland@campqualityusa.org / (330) 968-8924 or visit www.campqualityusa.org.

The Arc of Lincoln Presents Health and Wellness Fair March 2 and Parent Resource Fair March 26 The Arc of Lincoln will be hosting a Health and Wellness Fair Saturday, March 2, from 1 to 4 p.m. at The Arc of Lincoln Office located at 5200 Francis St. This is a free event for individuals with disabilities and their supports. At the event, you will make your own wellness toolbox, make and take coping skills, listen to The Arc of Lincoln information/updates, receive free chair massages and enter for a chance to win a free massage. The Arc of Lincoln thanks Affinity Community Counseling and hands of Heartland for sponsoring the event. The Arc of Lincoln will also be hosting a Parent Resource Fair Tuesday, March 26, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at The Arc of Lincoln Office located at 5200 Francis St. This event is for parents/families of individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD), I/ DD Service Provides in Lincoln and community agencies that serve I/DD individuals. Since 1952, The Arc of Lincoln has been a resource for parents, schools, agencies and individuals who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities. The mission is to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to promote and protect their rights and interests, while enriching the quality of their lives. They believe that all people deserve opportunities and to be contributors and influencers in their communities. To learn more or to inquire about The Arc of Lincoln, visit www. arclincoln.org or contact Executive Director Jennifer Stuhmer at director@arclincoln.org / (402) 421-8866. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

The Lincoln Children's Museum, in collaboration with the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation, is set to host an exciting Ag Day Celebration March 19 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. This event, open to the public and free of charge, promises a fun-filled evening for families and children eager to learn about agriculture. Real Nebraska farmers will be present, engaging with young participants by hosting various activities and answering their curious questions about farming and agriculture. From showcasing the intricacies of farm life to explaining the importance of sustainable practices, these farmers will offer valuable insights into the agricultural world. Adding to the excitement, there will be a real tractor on-site, providing children with the opportunity to get up close and personal with farming equipment. Additionally, attendees can enjoy a range of fun activities including cow pot planting, games and more, all designed to educate and entertain. This event serves as an excellent opportunity for families to connect with the agricultural community while fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for the vital role agriculture plays in our daily lives. Don't miss out on this engaging and educational Ag Day Celebration at the Lincoln Children's Museum! The Lincoln Children’s Museum invites children to create, discover and learn through the power of play. Every visit, membership, donation and in-museum purchase helps to support their mission. To learn more, visit www.lincolnchildrensmuseum.org. “YOUR YOUR OUTDOOR LIVING IS OUR PASSION PASSION”

luxurylandscape.ne@gmail.com 402.440.7721 | luxurylandscape-llc.com MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

Strictly Business MARCH 2024

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NONPROFIT NEWS Bring Camp GOTR to Your Community This Summer Girls on the Run (GOTR) seeks host sites and coaches to lead Camp GOTR in Metro Nebraska this summer. Camp GOTR combines the best of the traditional Girls on the Run program with all the fun of camp. Designed for rising thirdthrough fifth-grade girls, Camp GOTR offers two themed curriculum versions. The “Girls Have Heart” curriculum builds friendship skills and the “Girls Have Heart” option focuses on managing emotions. Girls spend a week building friendships, exploring their creativity and playing fun games that keep them moving. Each half-day week-long Camp GOTR curriculum integrates fun lessons on the theme with physical activity, crafts and skits. Camp GOTR can be delivered at schools, parks or community centers. Most activities take place outside, but an indoor space is required in the event of inclement weather. Camp Coaches are also needed. Coaching Camp GOTR is a blast. You don’t have to be a runner to be a great coach. You’ll be trained to deliver the curriculum, which includes fun games and activities for a group of 10 to 20 girls. Coaches get a registration discount and GOTR swag for volunteering. Since its inception with 11 girls and two coaches in September 2003, Girls on the Run of Nebraska has expanded to serve more than 25,000 girls and 3,000 coaches at 100+ sites across the state. Join the GOTR movement to help build strong girls in Nebraska with one of Girls on the Run’s transformational programs. Visit www. GOTRNebraska.org to bring Camp GOTR to your neighborhood or to get involved.

Help Girl Scouts Launch Their Cookie Business, One Cookie at a Time The 2024 Girl Scout Cookie Season is here, the world’s largest entrepreneurial program for girls! Girl Scouts across the state are taking on the role of Cookie Bosses and transforming into minientrepreneurs. Girl Scout Cookies are more than delicious treats, they’re entrepreneurial juggernauts and building blocks for Girl Scouts to create a more equitable future for themselves and the world. The proceeds from each purchase stay local and fund camping events, national travel and local trips. The Girl Scout Cookie Program teaches girls about financial literacy, planning, budgeting, innovative thinking and decision making. The “out of this world” 2024 Girl Scout Cookie Lineup includes: Adventurefuls, Caramel deLites, Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip, Lemonades, Thin Mints, Peanut Butter Patties, Peanut Butter Sandwiches, Trefoils and Toast-Yays! The last day of cookie sales is March 17, so get yours before they are gone! Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska is the largest girl-serving organization in the state and 19,000 members strong. Nationally, there are 2.5 million girl and adult members who believe that girls together can change the world. Girl Scouts provide the opportunity for every girl to be someone amazing. Learn more at www.girlscoutsnebraska.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Angels Among Us Hosting Fifth Annual Birds & Beer April 18 Angel s Among Us i s thrilled to be hosting the fifth annual Birds & Beer craft beer and chicken wing festival on April 18 at Nebraska Brewing Company. This year, 12 breweries will be featured and there will be 10 local restaurants serving chicken wings and creative chicken bites. Thank you to the generous sponsors for making this event a success: Patriot Nation, Fusion, Faith Technologies, Interstates, Google, Premier Bank and JeDunn. Registration is $45 and includes all you can taste beer and chicken, plus a glass to take home. Be sure to secure your ticket by Wednesday, April 17, at 3 p.m. by visiting www.myangelsamongus. org. Ticket prices increase to $50 at the door. Angels Among Us is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide financial and emotional support to any family whose child is battling pediatric cancer living in or being treated in the state of Nebraska. Since 2006, nearly 700 families have been supported with nearly $5 million in financial support. If you are interested in attending and/or sponsoring any of these events, please contact Aly Goedeken at alyssa@myangelsamongus.org or call (402) 934-0999.

Join Youth for Christ for No-Donation Ask Tour of Ministry Don’t miss out on the excitement of what God is doing through the No-Donation Ask Tour for Youth for Christ’s (YFC) ministry. On this free one-hour inspiring journey through the mission and passion of Youth for Christ, you will see how God is transforming the lives of Lincoln Area's urban youth, inmates and young families. The Juvenile Justice Ministry’s (JJM) “See the Story” gives you a tour of their mission at the Lancaster County Youth Detention Center, where you can explore your fit in the ministry. Prior to the tour, YFC will have sandwiches available for lunch and will share with you briefly about YFC ministries. The tour will start at noon and go until 1 p.m. Through regular programming and special events, Youth for Christ Lincoln Area works with over 2,400 local youth with the goal of engaging them in a healthy relationship with mentors, friends and God. For more information about Youth for Christ’s mission and how to get involved, go to yfclincoln.org or contact the YFC office at (402) 420-7475 / info@yfclincoln.org.

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

LA N D M A RK

N UR S ERY

AN D

L AN DS CAP IN G

WHERE PLANTS, HOME & NATURE

CONNECT Come experience a place where plants, home and nature connect. Landmark Nursery & Landscaping, in conjunction with our gift shop “The Refuge,” combines outdoor and indoor elements to provide a cohesive nature emphasized feel or culture. Landmark began as merely a landscaping company, offering design, construction and maintenance services. This evolved into a retail nursery and garden center encompassing approximately 15 acres. The addition of our gift shop “The Refuge” morphed us into a unique location which brings the indoor and outdoor environments together. Our facility and its various display gardens all nestled in a tranquil outdoor environment are meant to inspire you. Our extensive selection and competitive pricing ensures our popularity with the gardening community. Our steadfast dedication to making each landscape project beautiful and sustainable ensures our position as one of the premier providers in the area. We stand out in our industry in many ways. Our selection is vast, and our prices are more than fair. We offer pricing structures that allow our customers landscaping budget to be stretched. Shoppers will be hard pressed to find a larger selection of nursery items under one roof. Add our expansive landscape materials yard to the equation, and you’ve just landed at an amazing one-stop shop. Face it, time is money. The fewer trips to complete your project, the better.

“

Wow what an awesome place! Tons of selection and pricing is very reasonable. The staff was very helpful when it came to pointing out what would work best for what we are wanting do achieve! - Clayton M. google review

”

Our mission statement is simple. Our job is to ensure that our customers succeed. We do this through education and proper direction. It’s not about making a sale; it’s about building a relationship.

CONNECT WITH US 4 0 2 .7 8 0 . 2 1 0 4 L A N DM A RKL A N D S CA P ES .U S 1269 N. 2nd Road, Eagle, Ne 68347

Strictly Business MARCH 2024

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FRIENDS

STRICTLY BUSINESS UPCOMING EVENTS

BUSINESS EVENTS M A R C H FRIENDS MARCH 1 GenLINK | LIBA

In honor of St. Patty's day, Strictly Business will host our Friends4Drinks after-hour networking event on Friday, March 8, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. We love McKinney's all times of the year, but it just feels right in March. So come enjoy yummy cocktails and beers, have a nibble from their delicious menu, and make some new business connections. We are so excited to have fun and celebrate with our friends, clients, guests, and anyone who wants to grow their professional and personal circle. McKinney's Irish Pub is located at 151 N 8th St.

Last Month Recap

MARCH 5 USDOL Webinar: Getting it Right, Know Your Fiduciary Responsibilities (Part1) | LincolnHR

MARCH 7 How to Create a Budget That Works for You| SCORE Lincoln Alumni Social | Leadership Lincoln

MARCH 8 Friends4Drinks| Strictly Business

MARCH 12 Social Media Marketing Strategies for Your Small Business | SCORE Lincoln

MARCH 13 Face the Chamber | Lincoln Chamber of Commerce USDOL Webinar: Getting it Right, Know Your Fiduciary Responsibilities (Part2) | LincolnHR

MARCH 14 2024 Nebraska Small Business Day | LIBA BizNet | LIBA

MARCH 19 HUGE thank you to everyone who came to our first Friends4Lunch of 2024 at one of our beloved local restaurants, Piedmont Bistro by Venue. It was so fun to see so many returning faces but then also welcome so many newcomers. The select menu was delicious to say the least and it sounded like the salmon and chicken salad sandwich were the favorites. Piedmont Bistro by Venue is located at 1265 S Cotner Blvd.

Business Toolbox Series | Lincoln Chamber of Commerce 2024 Safety Expo and STEP Luncheon | ABC Nebraska and South Dakota LIBA Luncheon | LIBA

We hope you're able to join us and get in on the fun. Our networking events are an amazing opportunity to have a nice relaxing time while also getting connected with other Lincoln businesses. You can find more information on our Facebook page (@StrictlyBusinessMagazine).

MARCH 21

As always, these events are free to you – you only pay for what you order! We’ve been loving the energy you all have been bringing to our meetings recently, and we can’t wait to see you and your friends at the next one. If you have any questions, reach out to kacey@strictlybusinessomaha.com / (402) 466-3330.

MARCH 20 Hot Topics Discussion | Leadership Lincoln

Google My Business - How to Get Your Business on Google Search and Maps | SCORE Lincoln USDOL Webinar: Getting it Right, Know Your Fiduciary Responsibilities (Part3) | LincolnHR

MARCH 26 Coffee & Contacts | LIBA Coffee Happy Hour at The Mill |AMA Lincoln For specific event details including time, location and contact information, visit our event calendar online at strictly-business.com/calendar-of-events.

Don’t see your event? Submit your events on our calendar! RSVP is encouraged for these events. Please let the Strictly Business team know if you plan to attend by calling (402) 466-3330, emailing office@strictlybusinessomaha.com or marking yourself as “Going” on the Facebook event pages. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

PAVING THE WAY FOR

CAREER EXPLORATION CareerPathway.com serves as a vital link between students, job seekers, professionals, businesses and colleges, aiming to revolutionize the exploration of careers across diverse industries. By providing authentic insights from professionals actively engaged in specific fields, the platform empowers individuals to make informed career decisions. The ultimate goal is to build a more strategically positioned and engaged workforce by bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical insights from professionals. HOW DOES IT WORK? 1.

Businesses post job opportunities and provide content that explains what their career does to students.

2. Educators encourage students to spend time exploring CareerPathway.com. 3. Students search for career options that align with their interests and are introduced to college and career opportunities. Businesses promote themselves and get on students’ radars through video and photo content showcasing what their employees do on a daily basis. From the platform, Students are shown career opportunities in their area. Educators can use CareerPathway.com in the classroom as a tool to help Students in their career exploration journey. While students explore career pathways, they are building their resume and portfolio to be shared with industry professionals. Students everywhere are seeking real world guidance to help them make one of the biggest decisions of their lives; selecting a career. CareerPathway.com is a platform where students can learn about career opportunities in all industries straight from professionals. CareerPathway.com takes privacy and safety seriously and follows guidelines set forth by FERPA, COPPA and GDPR as it relates to collecting, storing, displaying and removing personal information.

Strictly Business MARCH 2024

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LINCOLN INDEPENDENT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION by Mark Whitehead CEO of Whitehead Oil

(402) 432-1370 www.liba.org

The Future of LIBA I hope this message finds you all in good health and high spirits. I am Travis Filing and am both honored and thrilled to introduce myself as the new Executive Director of LIBA. As I step into this role, I want to express my gratitude for the warm welcome I have received thus far. Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to helping small businesses. I moved to Lincoln 25 years ago and spent my first 10 years working in radio. In 2002, I helped my wife Shannon start our first business, Transformation Marketing which we still own and operate today. I bring with me a wealth of experience in as a business owner and CEO, as well as sales and marketing.

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epicoption.org

full-service salon These roles have equipped me with insights into successful strategies for growth, innovation and fostering a positive and collaborative wig consultations company culture. I’ve met dozens and dozens of LIBA members over the past week and experienced stylists all of them, as well as many of you, are curious of my plan and vision for LIBA moving forward. My first day on the job, with dozens of ideas swirling in my head about how to move the organization forward, I sat at my desk ready to “set the world on fire” and realized, LIBA is not my organization, it is OUR organization, and I didn’t feel right m o v i n g fo r wa r d implementing plans and ideas without getting as much input from you as possible. So, along with our LIBA staffers, Carter, Bob and Anne as well as several committee members, we have created a survey for our members to help us guide and shape the direction of this great organization which we plan on sending out in the next week. All we ask is that you “give it to us straight.” We want to know the good and the bad, what LIBA does that is helpful to your business and what is not worth your time and energy.

(402) 467-4646 5955 South 56th St, Suite 4 Lincoln, NE ovationsalonandwigs.com

I am deeply committed to building on the foundation laid by my predecessors and working closely with each of you to drive LIBA to new heights. Our shared journey begins with open communication, collaboration, and a collective dedication to excellence. I am eager to learn from the wealth of knowledge within the team and to collectively steer LIBA toward continued success. My door is always open, and my phone is always on my hip. I welcome any insights, suggestions or thoughts you may have as we embark on this exciting chapter together. Thank you for your warm welcome, and I look forward to getting to know each of you better in the coming weeks and hearing more about how – together – we can move LIBA to new heights. 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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MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

MEETING YOU WHERE YOU’RE AT At DARING MINDS THERAPY, we focus on treating and preventing serious mental health and substance abuse conditions. We really focus on an individualized approach for each client rather than a cookie-cutter, once size fits all approach. Daring Minds believes in meeting clients where they are, encouraging change instead of forcing it. We will walk hand-in-hand with our clients on their journey to a live a life they want to live. Our practitioners are trained to work with children, adolescents and adults. Our providers use a variety of approaches, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy, ACT and Person-Centered Therapy to address client’s concerns and help the client live to their fullest potential. If we cannot help you, we have an extensive network of referrals to make sure you get the help you want and need.

EVALUATIONS: • Substance Use Evaluations • Mental Health Evaluations • Co-Occurring Evaluations • Trauma Assessments “We believe healing is a collaborative endeavor that requires honest caring without judgment, and we cooperatively assist clients in clarifying their goals for treatment.”

daringmindstherapy.info | (531) 289-1005 Info@daringmindstherapy.com 5550 S. 59th STE 11 Lincoln, NE 68516 Mon-Fri: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. | Sat-Sun: By Appointment Only

Strictly Business MARCH 2024

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DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION

(402) 434-6900 • downtownlincoln.org

by Todd Ogden, President

After Closing Its Doors in Downtown Lincoln during COVID, Lotus has Rejoined the Downtown Lincoln BID Expansion Downtown Lincoln is expanding its borders to include the Telegraph District. The Telegraph District was introduced to Downtown Lincoln as of September 1, 2023. Mother-daughter duo, Anne and Mary Clare Sweet, have been doing all things yoga for over a decade. Anne Sweet deals with Lincoln operations and is the one that got the ball rolling in making Lotus House of Yoga a brand and a reality. “My daughter was a dancer in New York, auditioning for entertainment opportunities and I told her she should come home, and when she came home I was like, ‘Let’s open a yoga studio!’” Sweet said. “And that was almost 15 years ago.” The Sweets opened their first storefront in Omaha in 2010. They expanded their holistic work to Lincoln in 2014. Since starting in 2010, Lotus House of Yoga had five locations in Lincoln and Omaha. “We had five locations, but when the pandemic hit, we had to close some studios,” Sweet said. “We only have two locations now – one in Omaha and [the Telegraph District location].” The locally owned fitness studio opened its Telegraph location in February 2020. This studio is located across the street from The Mill Coffee and Tea. This Lotus location offers yoga, sculpting and indoor cycle fitness classes. Anne Sweet expressed how much she has enjoyed being in the Telegraph District and in the building they are leasing. “My grandmother’s first job was right here,” Sweet said through tears. “She was a telephone operator in this building.” A fun fact about Lotus House of Yoga is that they were the first to sell Lululemon yoga mats in the US. “We were the largest retailer of Lululemon yoga mats in the country when we first opened,” Sweet said. “This is a time when you couldn’t get things on Amazon, and so we were kind of a go-to place for all things yoga.” Lotus offers several classes including hot yoga, power yoga, traditional flow, beginner classes and sculpting classes. Hot yoga can reach to 108 degrees inside the gym room. Afraid to go in-person? Not a problem, Lotus offers an on demandonline program with an option to attend in person or via livestream in the comfort of your own home. Lotus’s main focus is the connection of the mind, body and soul. To sign up for a class, visit lotushouseofyoga.com. Founded in 1967, the Downtown Lincoln Association provides services and champions initiatives for maintaining and enhancing our vibrant downtown. Our vision is to create an energetic downtown environment where we live, learn, work, invest and play. DLA has evolved into a multi-faceted organization supporting a wide range of programs and activities including maintenance, economic development and advocacy. For a complete listing of downtown businesses, events and residences visit downtownlincoln.org. ‘Like’ us on Facebook at facebook.com/downtownlincoln.

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466-DOOR

MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

the

Best Services FOR ANY BUDGET

We Guarantee It!

As we strive to be the premier cleaning company in Lincoln Lancaster County, we prioritize providing extraordinary service, conducting business honestly, providing opportunities to our employees and because we value an environment for growth, good judgment in word and deed and operating today with tomorrow in mind we see our company growing and remaining profitable along the way.

JANITORIAL SERVICES We offer a full range of cleaning services. We can keep your facility spotless with our routine janitorial services in Lincoln, NE. With our services, we tailor a program to fit your needs whether you are in a manufacturing facility, medical facility, or any other commercial facility.Our crews can operate day or night and can provide scheduled cleaning services based on your preference. COMMERCIAL CARPET CLEANING For carpet cleaning in Lincoln, NE, we offer one-time deep cleaning and scheduled programs on a monthly, bi-monthly or quarterly basis. We are an IICRC certified carpet cleaning firm and use industry approved methods in keeping with warranty requirements for all major carpet mills. HARD AND RESILIENT FLOOR SERVICES We offer top quality floor cleaning services in Lincoln, NE. We’re able to strip, refinish, scrub, recoat, or simply buff your finished vinyl or VCT flooring to look like new. We can also machine scrub and clean your ceramic, porcelain, and other tiled floor types, while also tending to the grout lines as well. GREEN CLEANING Whether you are LEED certified, obtaining LEED certification, or simply wanting to be more environmentally friendly, we can offer you a comprehensive program forGreen Cleaning in Lincoln, NE. Our Green Cleaning Products are certified by Green Seal to be used in a green Program. Our program can help you earn points toward LEED certification. HEALTHCARE CLEANING Over 50 years ago, ServiceMaster Clean® recognized that healthcare facilities required specialized cleaning in order to maintain health and safety levels for these unique environments. We were pioneers in the field then, and today we continue to bring new and better ways to maintain the cleanliness, safety and health of the healthcare facilities we serve.

At ServiceMaster Professional Building Maintenance of Lincoln, quality is our middle name.

Trust us for quality and reliable services! (402) 476-2194 2626 O St., Lincoln, NE 68510 www.smpbm.com

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LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

by Jason Ball President

(402) 436-2350 www.lcoc.com

Fueling Innovation: Announcing the 2024 LaunchLNK Grant Recipients

I am thrilled to share exciting news from the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development regarding the selection of six new LaunchLNK grant recipients. We are so proud of the impact of our LaunchLNK program and the important role this initiative plays in providing the resources necessary to help businesses grow and thrive in Lincoln. Since its inception in 2018, LaunchLNK has proven its effectiveness in fueling Lincoln’s startup ecosystem. The 24 program alumni have collectively raised over $95.5 million in follow-on funding and grants, illustrating the significance programs like this play in driving economic growth in our community. Building on the success of the past five years, we expanded the program this year to offer grants to six startups, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to nurturing a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem within our city. The LaunchLNK program awards $20,000 non-dilutive grants to high-growth startups in Lincoln and provides connections to additional resources to accelerate their growth. From startup accounting services to intellectual property support, this program ensures startups have access to a comprehensive network designed to empower their success. Congratulations to the 2024 LaunchLNK cohort: The Headset App – The Headset App solves the cross-industry problem of outdated and overpriced radio-based communication systems for teams by introducing a new app-based platform that offers teams a simple, affordable and superior experience with devices they already own. Road Sentinel – Road Sentinel’s AI inspection tool quickly determines if a road safety barrier or guard rail structure is damaged or not operational. This greatly reduces the time to inspect and prioritize repairs that in the U.S. could save three lives per day. Larkspur Upholstery Studio, LLC – Larkspur Upholstery Studio offers professional residential and commercial upholstery services ranging from repairs to reupholstery and custom furniture. They are poised for growth and expansion into retail. DARO, LLC – DARO is revolutionizing farm resiliency with pathogen surveillance systems that enhance livestock health, productivity and biosecurity. Their innovative solutions provide near real-time monitoring and analysis to detect, forecast and prevent diseases, empowering farmers to make informed decisions. ReUnite – ReUnite’s solution embeds software on resale websites to acquire buyer interest data and leverages the insights to increase sales by informing what can be resold and targeting interested buyers. Viosimos Agriculture LLC – Vio Ag will provide a biofungicide for pathogens that are difficult to treat with conventional fungicides, a major problem for agricultural producers in the U.S. and worldwide. I look forward to watching these six dynamic startups make meaningful contributions to Lincoln’s ongoing economic vitality. Their success is not only a testament to their ingenuity and hard work, but also to the strength of our entrepreneurial community. To learn more about our LaunchLNK program, visit launchlnk.com.

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

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Strictly Business is excited to highlight FEMALE entrepreneurs, risk-takers, role models and leaders in the Lincoln business community. If you qualify and would like to share your story with our thousands of local readers online and through print, contact us today to be in the April issue!

editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com | 402-466-3330 #PrintProudDigitalSmart

MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

A robust physical health foundation contributes to increased energy levels, improved focus and enhanced resilience to stress. In the context of workplace wellness, prioritizing physical health often involves initiatives such as fitness programs, ergonomic workstations and health screenings. Regular exercise, proper nutrition and sufficient rest not only foster individual health, but also positively impact productivity and job satisfaction. Ensuring a positive well-being outside of the workplace significantly influences your overall work experience. If you're looking for a convenient and effective way to stay active, consider Club Pilates. Their welcoming studio offers various classes tailored to your preferences - whether you prefer high-intensity workouts, strength training or want to focus on mobility and recovery, Club Pilates has you covered. Club Pilates is an internationally recognized brand that has gained popularity for low-impact and highly effective fitness routines. These full-body workouts are carefully crafted to strengthen muscles, improve posture and address muscle imbalances. What sets Club Pilates apart is their commitment to providing a fitness experience that accommodates everyone. The low-impact nature of the workouts ensures accessibility for individuals of all fitness levels. Club Pilates specializes in Reformer-based Pilates, offering a dynamic exercise regimen that goes beyond traditional methods. The incorporation of other modalities, including Chair, SpringBoard and Jumpboard, adds variety and effectiveness to the workouts, specifically targeting core strength. “We know how challenging it can be to want to go workout, especially when you are juggling family, friends and work. Christine Krueger Since having a healthy body and mind can Club Pilates contribute to the quality of work you put into your profession, companies often have a wellness program that allows a discount to employees for making wellness a priority. Check with your HR director to see if your company provides something like this, and then let them take some of the worry out of your situation,” shared Club Pilates Owner Christine Krueger. While at work, taking short breaks to walk around is a widely recognized and simple, yet effective, method to manage stress in the workplace. Taking brief walks not only promotes physical activity, but also offers a change of scenery and a refreshed perspective. Incorporating regular short walks into your work routine can be a valuable self-care strategy, fostering a healthier and more balanced work environment. Additionally, taking walks and runs outside of work can have a similar effect on your outlook at work. Participating in a run or walk might seem easy, but as highlighted by the Lincoln Running Co., it's not as simple as it sounds. As such, it never hurts to get some advice. “We have the time, the knowledge, the passion and the empathy to help people get moving,” said Manager Ann Ringlein. “We want to arm our customers with everything they need. Lincoln Running Co. has everything from the equipment needed – such as shoes, socks and apparel – to a training program they can take home with them or a walking/ running class to sign up for. We take care of our customers from the ground up!” To help with workplace wellness, Lincoln Running Co. suggests that employers encourage office employees to include physical activity in their routines by organizing regular challenges, promoting Ann Ringlein time spent outdoors walking or running. Lincoln Running Co. Another option is to boost team spirit by having the office participate together in organized running or walking events. These efforts not only promote a healthier lifestyle, but also

WORKPLACE

WELLNESS

Comprehensive workplace wellness initiatives are vital for promoting a healthy workforce, whether employees work remotely or in an office. Traditional offices can offer ergonomic workstations, on-site fitness facilities and mental health programs, including stress management workshops and counseling services to promote employee well-being. Cultivating a positive company culture that prioritizes work-life balance, flexible hours and social interactions contributes to a holistic approach to employee well-being. For remote workers, employers can enhance wellness programs with virtual fitness classes, online mental health resources and ergonomic guidelines for home offices. Encouraging regular breaks, flexible work hours and offering stipends for home office equipment supports both physical and mental health. Virtual social events, team-building activities and communication platforms foster a sense of community among remote employees. Navigating the complexities of workplace wellness can be challenging, so we recommend reaching out to the local businesses around you to learn more about how we can all continue to improve wellness in the workplace, no matter where our workplace is at.

ACCESS TO YOU.

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

Dr. Todd Johnson

Krystal Jackson, PA-C

Teresa Novak, PA-C

· Access Family Medicine is Lincoln’s first membership based, primary care clinic. · Provide your team with healthcare & peace of mind · Employees will receive all of their primary care needs for one low monthly rate!

Reduced, flat-rate plans available for businesses!

AccessFamilyMedicine.com

Strictly Business MARCH 2024

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create a more vibrant and supportive workplace environment through the relationships built between employees. An unfortunate factor contributing to workplace wellness is working while recovering from an injury. Employees facing this situation often encounter obstacles in maintaining both physical and mental well-being. The physical demands of the job may exacerbate the recovery process, potentially leading to prolonged healing times and increased susceptibility to further health issues. Additionally, the mental toll of navigating work responsibilities while recovering can contribute to heightened stress and decreased overall well-being. Though returning to work after an injury or health issue can be challenging, there are businesses right here in Lincoln that can help smooth that rough transition. Husker Rehab offers professional therapy services to support individuals in their recovery journey. Specializing in highly customized rehabilitation, wellness and preventative care therapies, Husker Rehab prioritizes understanding each patient's needs and desires to develop tailored treatment plans. By providing unique and intensive therapies, they aim to make a meaningful difference in people's lives, helping them regain mobility and functionality. “Husker Rehab provides instruction in general activity guidelines to help you through your work day,” said Ben Petersen, DPT. “We can discuss proper setup at your work space, including things like where you might put your keyboard, what height your monitor should be and where you could place your phone and other work devices. We tend to put different items around our Ben Peterson work space in convenient spots. The problem Husker Rehab is, that might cause us to continually reach or lean to one dominant side. This creates postural imbalance and could lead to pain issues or ROM restrictions. We can help with exercises to restore balance and limit restrictions.” Ben and the team at Husker Rehab provide support to individuals across various industries, recognizing the toll that both manual labor and office jobs can take on physical well-being. Understanding the potential impact of a variety of types of work on the body, they emphasize the importance of a proactive approach to employee well-being including the implementation of wellness programs and ergonomic practices. Recognizing the interconnectedness of mental and physical health, The Body Connection prioritizes addressing stress's impact on both the body and mind. The Body Connection utilizes massage therapy as a means to help their clients prepare for stressful situations and work environments by promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. Massage therapy is known to activate the body's relaxation response, which helps to reduce muscular tension, calm the mind and decrease anxiety. “Our goal is to help clients navigate stressful situations and environments with greater ease and well-being,” shared Owner Tammy Helzer. “By using massage therapy as a tool, we are able to accomplish that goal.” Tammy Helzer Through the use of various massage Body Connection techniques, such as Swedish massage or deep tissue massage, The Body Connection aims to relieve muscle tension and promote a sense of well-being. This can be particularly helpful in preparing individuals for stressful situations and work environments, as it allows them to enter these situations with a more relaxed and focused mindset. In addition to its stress-reducing benefits, massage therapy at The Body Connection plays a multifaceted role in enhancing overall wellbeing. The therapy is recognized for its potential to improve sleep #PrintProudDigitalSmart

25 YEARS

STRONG Serving the Lincoln Community

HEALTH HAS NO AGE LIMITS…. Mary Frack has been coming for 24 of our 25 years and is turning 95 this month! Join us in wishing her a Happy Birthday! Visit HuskerRehab.com for more info

― Locations ― North Lincoln

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Fairbury

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(402) 729-2639

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Serving Lincoln and SE Nebraska for 25 Years

MORE THAN A GYM! As a holistically based health and wellness facility Madonna ProActive offers everything from gym memberships to medical services and massage. There are a variety of membership options including short-term, month to month and annual agreements. Call now to ask about a free, one-week trial! GYM MEMBERSHIPS include access to the entire facility with 100 pieces of cardio equipment, 2 weight rooms, over 90 fitness and yoga classes each week, towel service and locker rooms with a dry sauna, steam room, whirl pool and amenities. MEDICAL SERVICES available on-site are physical therapy, cardiac rehabilitation, cholesterol and blood glucose checks, plus more.

MASSAGE is one of the most popular services at Madonna ProActive and members receive discounts. Choose from four licensed massage therapists, a variety of availability and types of massages. Treat yourself to a massage in the New Year!

Call (402) 420-0000 today to ask about pricing and availability. proactive.madonna.org

MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

quality, boost immune function and increase energy levels. These positive outcomes not only contribute to better coping mechanisms, but also foster resilience in individuals facing stress.

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By offering a multifaceted approach that prioritizes physical and mental well-being, Madonna Proactive further revolutionizes workplace wellness. Their state-of-the-art facility provides an inspiring environment, equipped with modern tools for a diverse range of wellness activities. The inclusion of personalized workout routines, nutritional guidance and fitness classes ensures that employees receive tailored support on their wellness journey.

CLUB PILATES LINCOLN 8222 Holdrege St, Lincoln, NE 68505 (531) 500-1456 | Call for More Details!

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According to Samantha Kelly, General Manager and Exercise Physiologist, “At Samantha Kelly Madonna ProActive, we are committed to Madonna Proactive empowering individuals and helping people achieve their goals. We focus on reaching fitness milestones and creating a culture of success within our workplace. By addressing both the physical and mental aspects of well-being, we create a resilient and balanced workforce.” To get your entire team together for a workout and bonding with Madonna ProActive, group fitness classes are offered seven days per week. There are 100+ classes offered in the morning, afternoon and evening, so there is sure to be a time when everyone can get together.

escape the chaos and unwind in our tranquil oasis of relaxation

Access Family Medicine complements this holistic approach with a tailored and relationship-based style of care, making it an excellent choice for small business owners.

your journey to ultimate relaxation starts here discover the perfect retreat for your body and mind call us at 402-580-9250 to schedule your appointment Save 10% on your first visit with Haley, Lora or Rosemary!

The core strength of Madonna ProActive lies in its team of seasoned professionals, including wellness experts, fitness trainers and nutritionists. This expert guidance not only maximizes the effectiveness of wellness programs, but also builds trust and a supportive community among employees. The holistic wellness approach extends beyond physical fitness, incorporating mindfulness practices and stress management techniques, recognizing the interconnected nature of overall well-being.

Strictly Business MARCH 2024

“Our office was designed to help small business owners provide a competitive benefits package and encourage them to invest in their own health. Business owners can provide high quality healthcare to their employees for just $50 per month, per employee. Through the months of March, April and May, Access family Medicine is running a “REFER A FRIEND” special that makes it even more affordable,” explained Office Manager Tiffany Johnson. Access Family Medicine stands out as an ideal healthcare partner for small business owners, offering a comprehensive and costTiffany Johnson effective solution that prioritizes the wellAccess Family Medicine being of employees. Through their tailored and relationship-based style of care, the medical practice ensures that each individual receives personalized attention, fostering a sense of connection and understanding. This approach facilitates efficient communication, allowing staff to address their health concerns through various channels, including in-person visits, phone calls, texts or emails. The virtual care options provided by Access Family Medicine allow further flexibility, enabling employees to manage their health without the need for office visits, which can be especially beneficial for small business owners aiming to minimize disruptions in their operations. This innovative healthcare model not only provides stress-reducing benefits, but also recognizes the multifaceted role of healthcare in enhancing overall well-being and workplace wellness. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

TECHNOLOGY In our increasingly tech-driven world, businesses are heavily relying on technology to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. However, the rapid pace of technological advancements can pose challenges for businesses striving to keep up. While technology offers great benefits, you have to know what you are doing to optimize them. Recognizing this, we engaged with local tech experts to share insights and expertise, aiming to help businesses to navigate the evolving tech landscape and harness its full potential for optimal performance. If you have ever found yourself wondering how to keep up with technology, rest assured that you're not alone. The rapid pace of technological evolution can be overwhelming, but there are numerous resources and experts available to help guide you through the process and ensure you stay well-informed and proficient in the ever-changing tech landscape. One such resource is Kim Hazelton, Solopreneur of Alpha Zed Business Services. “There are so many tools out there to automate and help you manage your back-office processes! I love using an all-in-one platform that can handle your CRM, email marketing, online order pages, automations and more. I just worked with a business owner to set up an automated process that allows a client to provide their contact info and other important details, select a date, sign a contract and pay their deposit without the owner having to be involved at all. In addition to the

PROVIDING SYSTEMS STRATEGY & SUPPORT

automated onboarding, other parts of the client journey can be automated, as well. As a Certified Ontraport Expert, I get to stay in the know about all the upcoming additions and improvements that are being made to the tool,” shared Kim. Their mission at Alpha Zed Business Services is crystal clear: to boost the confidence of those who grapple with technology, ensuring they adeptly handle business systems. This service is designed to liberate entrepreneurs, allowing them to share their Kim Hazelton expertise globally without the burden of Alpha Zed Business Services managing intricate back-office systems. Guided by principles of hard work, integrity and quality, their focus is unwaveringly on supporting clients as they confidently grow their businesses. By seamlessly integrating technology into the business landscape, they are dedicated to bridging the gap, empowering individuals to navigate and leverage tech tools effectively for success. With a growing desire to utilize technology is a growing worry about cybersecurity. As we embrace more online activities, our personal and sensitive information becomes a target for cybercriminals who

Keep Your Computers & Networks Performing With Your Small Business Technology Experts

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CONFIDENTLY SERVE YOUR CLIENTS WE ARE NOW BOOKING FOR MAY! Reach out now to schedule a custom setup of Ontraport’s all-in-one CRM, sales and automation platform. Alpha Zed Business Services

kim@alphazedservices.com | systemssuperhero.com

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EDUCATE business owners PROVIDE guidance and support With High-Value, Low-Cost Tech Solutions! Darren E. Lichty Founder

Contact Panology Today!

402-937-9137

www.PanologyInc.com MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

use sophisticated methods like phishing and ransomware. The rise of remote work and Internet of Things (IoT) devices adds to the vulnerabilities, making it easier for cyber threats to spread globally. Governments are also tightening regulations on data protection, emphasizing the need for individuals and organizations to prioritize cybersecurity. The media's coverage of high-profile cyber incidents and the push for cybersecurity education contribute to a broader understanding of the urgency to enhance digital defenses. In response to these challenges, there's a growing emphasis on strengthening cybersecurity measures in various sectors. Businesses and governments are investing in advanced technologies and promoting a culture of cyber awareness. Educational efforts, including integrating cybersecurity into curricula and professional training programs, aim to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed for secure online practices. As technology evolves, maintaining a collective commitment to cybersecurity is crucial, requiring continuous adaptation, collaboration and innovation to stay ahead of emerging threats and ensure the security of digital systems. Darren Lichty from Panology Tech Solutions elaborated on this concern, sharing, “Today's business owner understands the critical importance of addressing cyber security in our always-connected world. They are asking the right questions about the risks to their business and how they are (or could be) protected. The increased availability of security solutions has given them the opportunity to safeguard their cash flow without draining it." Panology Tech Solutions recognizes the wide range of digital threats prevalent in today's society and addresses them through a catalog of advanced cyber security features. By leveraging technology developed by experts in the field, Panology Darren Lichty goes beyond traditional antivirus products Panology

to provide protection across multiple layers, all at a price point that also protects the business's budget. Security, much like a cake, works best when applied in layers. These layers offer protection for computers and devices (endpoints), email communications, the company's network, critical data and the people within your organization. Panology has partnered with cyber security experts to provide managed security services for each of these layers. This focused approach ensures that clients receive the dedicated attention necessary for effective protection as their business continues to grow alongside technological advancements. Collaborating with a Managed IT service provider also equips businesses to navigate the challenges of growth effectively through a comprehensive Managed IT solution aligned with their strategic IT plan. Ryan Wineteer, Sales Manager at Hamilton, highlights that their clients experience the advantages of a unified IT system that is proactively designed to meet their evolving business needs. "The best MSPs put a comprehensive stack of softwares and management practices Ryan Wineteer in place to protect their clients' network. Hamilton Having monitoring, patching and backup is only half the battle because businesses are facing continuously evolving threats. What was sufficient even 18 months ago is not enough to keep the threats at bay today. When a new control or software is needed, we add it and it costs our customers nothing additional. This becomes especially crucial in today's dynamic and ever-changing cyber landscape. Our primary commitment is implementing and managing the extensive safeguards needed to protect our clients' businesses.” The Managed IT solution offered by Hamilton serves as a crucial foundation for businesses, allowing them to concentrate on their

MANAGED IT & CYBERSECURITY 402.694.5101 HamiltonISBusiness.com info@hamiltonisbusiness.com

Aurora • Grand Island • Hastings • Kearney • Lincoln • Gibbon • Burwell 62

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core strengths and the growth of their operations. Ryan Wineteer emphasizes the significance of this approach, where businesses can thrive by focusing on what they do best while having a secure and well-managed IT infrastructure in place. “Without such a foundation, businesses could potentially be vulnerable to risks, including the loss of important information that might have significant consequences, particularly if left unaddressed over an extended period.” For technology solutions that enhance the fiber-optic experience for businesses, consider reaching out to ALLO. Their solutions are designed to cater to various aspects of business technology and cybersecurity. One standout offering from ALLO Business is their Next-Gen Firewall. This comprehensive cybersecurity and enterprise security solution goes beyond traditional firewalls, operating 24/7 to protect businesses. The Next-Gen Firewall employs advanced features such as deep-packet inspection, intrusion prevention (IPS), advanced malware detection and application control. This approach ensures thorough security, as it can identify and address potential threats, including those hidden within application traffic. By offering robust protection, ALLO Business aims to safeguard organizations from potential breaches. ALLO Business also provides Technology Solutions geared towards simplifying IT management. These solutions are proactive and planned, with a strong emphasis on cybersecurity. The objective is to fully understand business goals and align technology and security to support these objectives effectively. Another feature in ALLO Business's arsenal is their Vice Solutions, which include a Cloud voice telephone system. This system promises features that contribute to customer and employee satisfaction, offering savings, scalability, secure connectivity and more. Furthermore, ALLO Business introduces Microsoft Teams Voice as part of their communications solutions. By using Microsoft Teams as a phone system, businesses can consolidate communication tools into one space. This integration allows for a unified platform for calls, documents and calendars, enabling teams to engage, chat and collaborate efficiently from any location. In addition to streamlining work spaces, a growing number of people are incorporating smart features into their homes – and Oak Electric is all for it. Smart switches are becoming really popular for making homes smarter. With these switches, you can control things like lights using your phone, which is super convenient. They also help save energy because you can set schedules for when things should be on or off, which can save you money on your energy bills over time. It's like having a remote control for your home! These switches can connect with other smart devices in your house, like Alexa or Google Home, making everything work together seamlessly. Having good internet in your home is also important. Data drops and Wi-Fi access points help make sure your devices can connect well everywhere in your house. With more and more gadgets in homes, like phones, smart TVs and security systems, having a strong internet connection is a must. Wi-Fi access points help spread the internet signal, making sure every part of your house has a good connection. This is especially important for things like streaming videos and playing online games without interruptions. The cool thing is these technologies are getting better and cheaper, just like how cell phones and solar power did. Companies like Oak Electric are working with the latest solar products and teaming up with local power companies. This helps them stay updated on all the cool new things and bring them to people like us. Ensure customer loyalty in a competitive marketplace by embracing technology designed to propel your business forward. Keeping your technology up-to-date and having the right team to manage its maintenance not only provides peace of mind, but also offers longterm savings. This proactive approach sets your business on a path for success and sustained customer satisfaction in the dynamic landscape of today's market. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

More Than

Marketing Your Vision, Our Expertise: A Partnership Beyond Expectations

go-tnt.com (402) 420-5101• hello@go-tnt.com

Let’s Collaborate Together MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

Reuse, Recycle, Resell ‘‘R

euse, Recycle, Resell” encapsulates a powerful mantra for sustainable living. By promoting the reuse of items, recycling materials and reselling products, we can contribute to a circular economy that minimizes waste and environmental impact. So, whether you’re turning old stuff into something new, tossing things in the recycling bin or giving a second home to things you no longer need, you’re making a real difference. It’s a cool way to live mindful, eco-friendly and reducing that carbon footprint. It’s not just about what we do; it’s about how we do it, and “Reuse, Recycle, Resell” is a guide to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly way of life.

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In today's era of sustainability awareness, the upholstery industry is experiencing a revitalization fueled by the rise of thrifting and repurposing – and Larkspur Upholstery Studio is all for it. With a focus on reusing, recycling and reselling furniture through reupholstery, old pieces are being given a new lease on life. This approach not only diverts items from landfills but also extends their longevity, reducing the demand for virgin materials. “From an upholstery perspective, the rise of thrifting and repurposing is music to our springs!” shared Amy Ainsley, CoOwner, Lead Upholsterer. “It allows for unique, customized furniture that reflects individual style and avoids the homogeneity of mass-produced items. Whether it's reviving a family heirloom or transforming a Facebook marketplace or thrift store find, reupholstery empowers creativity, minimizes waste and gives furniture a second (or third or fourth) chance to shine. We see it as a Amy Ainsley win for the environment, for self-expression Larkspur Upholstery Studio and for the enduring value of quality craftsmanship and the upholstery trade.” From sofas to wall panels, from residential to commercial, from recycled to responsibly new: Larkspur has it covered. Expert reupholstery, expert sewing, soft furnishings, custom and responsibly new furniture - they have it all. When it comes to thrifting, there are so many different, unique items you can find. Whether you're searching for new or pre-loved Husker gear, classic vinyl, stylish vintage wear, jewelry or quality furniture, Sally’s Select Boutique is a great place to explore. All the incredible items at Sally’s Select are sourced from generous donations through The Salvation Army and curated specifically for the Lincoln location. When you shop at Sally’s, you're not just making a purchase – you're making a positive impact! Your support enables them to continue their mission of making a difference in the community. On the flip side, don’t toss out your old stuff. Clean out your closet and storage and give back! Donating items you no longer need is a simple way to make a big impact. When individuals choose to donate instead of discarding no longer needed items, these belongings find new purpose and benefit others in the community. Whether its clothing, furniture or household items, the act of giving can positively impact those in need. By sharing what we have, we contribute to a more sustainable and supportive society, where resources are reused, recycled and resold. For bringing your old belongings back to life, Ole’s Boot & Shoe Repair offers quality services for repair of any shoes, boots, sandals, leather jackets, purses, belts, zippers and more that you need to keep your favorite accoutrement in working order. So, don’t toss your favorite pumps or Birkenstocks with the torn-away sole or broken heel into the back of your closet. Take them down to Ole’s and get them back to the perfectly custom-shaped comfort of your feet right away! Ole’s can also bring your treasured leather jacket with the broken zipper back to working order, or they can shorten straps on purses or belts to fit your size to a tee. What’s more, they carry a host of supplies for your footwear needs, including introductory orthotics for plantar fasciitis and other painful conditions, as well as a wide selection of shoe and boot polishes and laces, bull-hide belts, leather wallets and cell phone cases – all made in the USA. Ole’s Boot & Shoe Repair has been in business in Lincoln for nearly 40 years. Their team of experts has been highly trained and will fix your worn-out footwear or other leather goods using only the highest-quality materials. Thank you for actively participating in the wonderful cycle of giving and receiving, embodying the principles of "Reuse, Recycle and Resell." Your contributions play a vital role in sustaining this positive and impactful cycle, making a meaningful difference in our community. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

SPRING CLEANING SPRING CLEANING W

hile there may be a mythical few who find joy in cleaning, the majority of us appreciate the benefits of a clean home or business without necessarily putting in the work for it. Climbing ladders to squeegee windows, dusting fans, mopping floors and scrubbing bathtubs isn’t an ideal way to spend our free time, leading many to opt for professional assistance. Recognizing that our homes and businesses are significant investments, prioritizing deep spring-cleaning tasks becomes crucial. These tasks not only prevent the buildup of dirt and grime, but also safeguard flooring and surfaces from damage, maintaining their luster. Additionally, thorough cleaning helps ward off mold and reduces allergens, creating a healthier environment for families or employees. The good news is that you don’t have to shoulder this responsibility alone. Lincoln is home to top-notch cleaning companies staffed with professionals who can handle the job with precision. By entrusting these experts, you ensure that your home or business not only looks pristine, but functions optimally. 66

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Deep cleaning your vehicles during spring, particularly after the harsh winter conditions in Nebraska, is crucial. The use of road salts and exposure to moisture during winter can take a toll on your car. Beyond the aesthetic benefits, a comprehensive cleaning is essential for preserving both the interior and exterior of your vehicle, ultimately impacting its resale value. The removal of road salts and moisture prevents potential damage to the clear coat and paint, helping prevent issues like rust that could compromise the vehicle's structural integrity. Locally owned JetSplash comes highly recommended for comprehensive vehicle care, particularly post-winter. Swift removal of salt and brine is crucial to prevent damage to the clear coat and paint. JetSplash ensures meticulous preparation and hand-drying for each vehicle, effectively removing salt and snow while preventing freezing. Their services include JetGloss, a ceramic coating that restores the clear coat and adds a protective layer to the vehicle, making JetSplash the go-to car wash in Lincoln. JetSplash offers a swift and efficient process with various wash options. Besides exterior cleaning, they provide complimentary mat cleaner, vacuums and air for maintaining the vehicle's interior. Choosing a membership plan provides flexibility, allowing for unlimited car washes at any of their seven convenient Lincoln locations. As winter weather leaves its mark with muck and grime on your home or business, spring presents the ideal opportunity for a comprehensive cleaning, both inside and out. ServiceMaster Professional Building Maintenance (PBM) stands ready to provide expert deep cleaning services for entire offices, along with specialized offerings such as carpet cleaning and hardfloor refinishing. Jon Paolini, the Owner of ServiceMaster, emphasizes the significance of spring Jon Paolini cleaning, stating, “Spring is a great time ServiceMaster Clean to deep clean carpets and shine up dull floors. Winter is hard on flooring and getting rid of the dirt and salt residue will not only enhance the appearance of flooring, but also extend its life.” Spring is a great time to clean carpets, detail dust, clean walls and the like – the things that tend to build up over the year if they aren’t kept up through the winter. Recognizing that contaminants can infiltrate spaces through various means, including air, shoes, animals and human contact, ServiceMaster offers intensive cleaning services. In their commitment to environmental responsibility, ServiceMaster prefers eco-friendly practices, avoiding heavy-duty cleaning supplies containing volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Their cleaners release minimal chemicals and fumes into the air, offering a safer alternative. Ensuring clean air and maintaining the integrity of your building involves addressing plumbing, heating and cooling needs in a timely manner – these often forgotten areas can cause major messes for you to clean up later! To set you up for the year ahead, consider working with Biggerstaff Plumbing, Heating & Air. Biggestaff offers comprehensive plumbing services, including repairs and installations such as drain cleaning, sewer repair, shower and tub maintenance, leak detection, water heaters, sump pumps, water softeners and more. Their proactive approach helps prevent emergencies and maintains the overall well-being of your house. Biggerstaff's HVAC technicians, certified by NATE, evaluate your situation to determine optimal air conditioning and heating solutions. If your AC struggles to cool an entire room, it may not be performing optimally, even in an energy-efficient home. The right HVAC unit ensures a comfortable living space and provides a cost-effective solution for energy conservation. In addition to plumbing and HVAC services, Biggerstaff addresses concerns about air quality by installing the Reme Halo, a whole-home in-duct air purifier. This device, producing hydrogen peroxide through the duct system, effectively combats bacteria, mold and viruses in #PrintProudDigitalSmart

the air. Biggerstaff's commitment to clean air extends beyond routine services, ensuring that the air you breathe at home or work is fresh and healthy. By proactively managing plumbing, heating and cooling needs, Biggerstaff contributes to a safe and comfortable environment within your building. Their expertise, combined with NATE certification, assures homeowners that their heating and cooling requirements are in capable hands. Whether it's plumbing repairs, HVAC solutions or air purification, Biggerstaff provides comprehensive services to maintain the well-being of your home and prevent potential issues. To ensure you have clean air after spring cleaning and the rest of the year, Custom Cooling & Heating, INC has several indoor air quality (IAQ) products. Today, they are featuring the HALO-LED™, the industry's inaugural LED in-duct, whole-home and building air purification system, notable for being mercury-free and compliant with zero ozone standards.

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MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

SPRING CLEANING TIPS: SPRING CLEANING TIPS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Declutter First Creating a Cleaning Checklist Organize as You Clean Tackle One Room at a Time Reward Yourself as You Go! According to the EPA, the indoor air is five times more polluted than outdoor air – even after spring cleaning! Indoor air quality (IAQ) is top of mind these days. It has been, and always will be, an important factor in the way we live. From managing common germs, allergens, mold, pet dander, dust and pollen to battling viruses, bacteria, odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), it’s hard to know what really works. Singleroom air purifiers attempt to address air quality, but do not treat the whole home. HVAC system filters capture the particulates, but do not neutralize biological contaminants, odors or VOCs. HALO-LED® disperses natural concentrations of gaseous hydrogen peroxide throughout your home, reducing viruses, bacteria, mold spores and odors in minutes. Low levels of airborne hydrogen peroxide are quietly distributed throughout the air-conditioned space so you get the fresh air where you need it. The HALO-LED™ system stands out as an advanced solution for enhancing indoor air quality as it covers 99% of the pollutants in

Spring cleaning is not just about creating a clean environment, but also about creating a more comfortable and enjoyable living space. the air you breathe in the home or office. So, since you spend up to 90% of your time indoors, it’s important to consider the impact these pollutants can have on your long-term health. When you install a HALO-LED®, you will notice the difference in the quality and freshness of the air you breathe and wonder why you did not take this simple measure sooner. Custom Cooling & Heating provides users with additional assurance through a seven-year limited warranty, emphasizing the system's quality and reliability. With these features, the HALO-LED™ system emerges as a valuable investment for those seeking to create a cleaner, safer and healthier indoor environment, especially during spring cleaning. Your business, home and vehicles are likely your biggest investments, so it’s crucial that you take care of them. Spring cleaning is essential for ensuring that your investments are not only good-looking, but also safe and comfortable. We recommend contacting these professionals to help you get the job done right!

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C O C MO M N E S R T C R I U A C L T I O N Whether you're contemplating the construction of a new office building or considering the renovation of an existing commercial space in Lincoln, the city boasts a wealth of knowledgeable and skilled contractors specializing in commercial construction. Engaging in construction requires adept professionals who can guide the project from its conceptual stages to its completion, ensuring that the new space not only meets but surpasses expectations in terms of efficiency, functionality and aesthetic appeal. Conversely, if your inclination is towards revitalizing an existing commercial structure to better align with your business requirements, Lincoln's proficient contractors stand ready to undertake the task. From modernizing outdated interiors to optimizing layouts for enhanced workflow or incorporating sustainable design elements, these contractors possess the expertise to execute your with precision and excellence. Overseeing aspects such as project planning, budgeting, construction management and quality assurance, they collaborate closely with clients throughout the process to ensure that the renovated commercial space aligns seamlessly with objectives and reflects the identity of the business. With a dedication to craftsmanship and client satisfaction, Lincoln's contractors are well-equipped to facilitate the creation of an efficient and effective workplace, whether through new construction or renovation endeavors. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Strictly Business MARCH 2024

Streamlining projects is essential when it comes to commercial construction. The multifaceted nature of commercial projects, often characterized by their scale and complexity, necessitates a strategic approach to streamline processes and optimize overall project performance. Merritt Concrete's volumetric concrete mixer trucks play a pivotal role in enhancing efficiency and flexibility in commercial construction projects. These trucks offer on-site concrete production with customizable mix designs, flexible batch sizes, on-time delivery, cost savings and reduced environmental impact. This versatility makes them indispensable for commercial construction endeavors, providing unprecedented efficiency, adaptability and sustainability. The unique feature of volumetric concrete mixer trucks lies in their specialized mixing system, enabling the production of fresh concrete directly at the construction site. Carrying essential ingredients like aggregates, cement, water and additives in separate compartments, these trucks mix them in precise proportions on demand. This capability allows for the creation of customized concrete mixes tailored to meet specific project requirements. The ability to adjust mix designs on the fly is particularly crucial for commercial construction, where diverse concrete types, such as high-strength or colored concrete, are often required. Volumetric mixer trucks empower contractors to modify the concrete composition during the pouring process, ensuring the concrete meets project specifications and desired performance characteristics. This dynamic feature not only enhances project customization, but also streamlines the construction process, saving both time and money. Remy Refinishing, a specialized painting company, excels in streamlining commercial construction projects. They initiate their process with a comprehensive consultation, addressing project intricacies like logistics, timelines and budget considerations. This understanding allows for strategic planning around business activities and regular operating hours, minimizing potential disruptions. Notably, Remy Refinishing goes the extra mile by offering paint color and finish consultation for clients who may not be working with an interior designer. This additional service underscores their commitment to providing comprehensive solutions and enhancing the overall project experience. “When recommending products, I am a big fan of Scuff X by Ben Moore. Their demo videos online show how it’s nearly impossible to leave those unsightly black scuff marks on walls painted with Scuff X,” Owner Jeremy Day shared. “It looks beautiful on a wall and it’s a tough durable finish that will keep a wall looking great for a long time.” Following their detailed consultation, Jeremy Day Remy Refinishing seamlessly transitions into Remy Refinishing the preparatory phase. This critical step involves safeguarding relevant areas and completing essential tasks such as patching and sanding walls with meticulous care. Remy Refinishing has done quite a number of commercial painting projects ranging from hotels, restaurants, apartment complexes, office spaces, laundromats, clinics and more, so you can rest assured that your project will be handled with the utmost skill and precision. Also approaching projects with caution is Farris Engineering. Engineering encompasses a wide range of skills in commercial building design and construction, covering areas such as mechanical, plumbing, electrical and data communication design. With so many moving parts, caution is a must for aligning all options and decisions with the client's vision and requirements in a way that ensures a successful project outcome. "As a mechanical engineer specializing in commercial construction, my role is to transform a client's vision into a tangible, functioning reality. It begins with a deep understanding of their goals and the unique aspects of their project. I then apply my expertise to design efficient, #PrintProudDigitalSmart

sustainable mechanical systems that align with their vision. Throughout the process, from initial design to final implementation, I focus on precision, innovation and collaboration, ensuring every mechanical element supports the overall architectural and functional objectives. By doing so, I help bring each client's vision to life in a way that's not only technically sound but also aesthetically and practically fulfilling,” stated Dustin Hill, PE, Mechanical Engineer. Farris Engineering is a trusted commercial Dustin Hill construction partner, offering innovative and Farris Engineering tailor-made solutions. Their commitment to delivering the best extends beyond conventional approaches, as Farris Engineering consistently employs innovative strategies and project-specific solutions that help bring a client’s vision to life without compromising the integrity of the building. In the event that the integrity of a building or an area is not suitable for commercial construction to commence, demolition becomes a crucial step. This process is essential when existing structures are no longer viable or when the designated site requires clearing before new commercial construction can begin. Demolition serves as a solution to remove outdated or unsafe buildings, providing a clean slate for upcoming development projects. Additionally, demolition ensures safety by eliminating potential hazards and creating a secure environment for the subsequent construction phase. Whether it's revitalizing urban spaces, optimizing land use or upgrading infrastructure, demolition is a foundational step in reshaping and preparing the ground for new commercial ventures. Pershing Demolition, a distinguished, family owned demolition and excavating company, stands as a cornerstone in the realm of commercial construction, leveraging over two decades of expertise to translate clients' visions into tangible reality. Renowned for their commitment to excellence and a strong emphasis on honesty and hard work, Pershing Demolition has earned a reputation for reliability and professionalism in handling projects of diverse scales. The company takes pride in executing jobs in a timely and welldone manner. Their extensive experience encompasses a variety of commercial demolition projects catering to a wide range of building types. Clients are empowered to envision ambitious projects with the support of Pershing's skilled demolition and excavation team, equipped with a modern fleet of heavy machinery capable of tackling projects of any magnitude. No commercial demo project is too big or too small for them! Certified in MSHA & OSHA, Pershing Demolition prioritizes safety and regulatory compliance, ensuring a smooth construction process. Offering comprehensive services, spanning from pre-construction to project completion, Kingery Construction is committed to delivering a superior level of professionalism, integrity and honesty while bringing a client’s vision to life. Their mission is to provide cost-effective solutions in a timely manner. “With a century of expertise in Lincoln, we’ve expanded into the Omaha market through the acquisition of Construct Inc., a company deeply ingrained in the Omaha community for over 35 years,” shared Jen Cowher, Director of Construction Operations. “This strategic expansion enables us to cater to a broader clientele in the region, offering the same unparalleled quality and excellence we’re renowned for.” Jen Cowher At Kingery, they understand that constructing Kingery Construction legacies transcends mere buildings. It’s about nurturing relationships with clients and partners, crafting enduring products that withstand the test of time and resonating with the community of owners and employees who inhabit these spaces #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

daily. Their team, equipped with exceptional management skills and a strong work ethic, ensures the highest-quality workmanship on every project. They prioritize relationships, pledging loyalty to employees, project owners, vendors and partners. Kingery has successfully completed projects through various processes, including Design Build, Design Bid Build, Construction Management and as a General Contractor. Kingery Construction proactively adapts to and stays ahead of various trends in commercial construction. This commitment to staying current positions them as a versatile and forward-thinking construction partner, capable of meeting diverse project requirements and aligning with evolving industry standards. Overall, Kingery's multifaceted approach and adaptability make them a trusted choice in the construction industry. When beginning the construction process, keeping the integrity of the building and surrounding area in mind, it is important to have highly qualified, trained professionals on the job site. These professionals play a pivotal role in ensuring that construction adheres to industry standards and safety protocols. Their expertise extends beyond technical know-how, encompassing a comprehensive understanding of environmental impact and community considerations. "Here at Lincoln Demolition & Excavation, we treat every project with the same amount of respect as if it were our own property. We have a strong belief in transparency, quality and safety. However, our top priority is listening to our customers' needs/desires, developing a plan of action to make that dream come to life, and then executing the plan of action to the best of our abilities in order to provide the customer with the final product they had envisioned when they contacted us. To make this happen as efficiently and safely as possible, we take great pride in our employee training and equipment maintenance/presentability,” shared Jake Metz, Owner of Lincoln Demolition & Excavation. Lincoln Demolition & Excavation specializes in a comprehensive range of services tailored for commercial construction projects. These

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include interior and exterior demolition, concrete removal and replacement, grading and drainage solutions, excavation and trenching, land clearing and parking lot/ driveway maintenance and repair. This diversified expertise positions them as a go-to partner for addressing various construction needs with precision and efficiency. One of the materials likely to be integrated into the construction project is concrete. Instead of hiding an often crucial component, Jake Metz consider integrating concrete as an essential Lincoln Demolition & Excavation and visible component of the design, highlighting its structural and aesthetic qualities to enhance the overall architectural appeal. From exposed concrete beams to textured walls, integrating this robust material into the visual narrative of the building can create a harmonious blend of form and function, elevating the overall architectural appeal with a distinct and contemporary charm. Concrete Craft of Lincoln offers a myriad of solutions for your building, ranging from polished concrete and textured entryways to customized decorative finishes for offices, showrooms and various areas. Their decorative concrete options provide durable and lowmaintenance alternatives to traditional flooring. Whether aiming for a sleek polished look or a more characterful design, Concrete Craft can deliver. Whether for interior or exterior transformations, Concrete Craft excels in creating impressive results. Their services include stamped concrete driveways, stained floors and decorative accent walls. With a team of skilled concrete artisans, they turn ordinary gray concrete into captivating works of art, ensuring your space stands out. Concrete Craft's solutions are not only visually appealing, but also cost-effective, allowing you to elevate your space without exceeding your budget.

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C O C MO M N E S R T C R I U A C L T I O N

Define Project Objectives: Clearly outline the goals and objectives of the commercial construction project. Identify the scope of work, budget constraints and desired timeline. Collaborate with key stakeholders to ensure everyone is aligned on the project’s vision. Feasibility Study: Conduct a thorough feasibility study to assess the practicality and viability of the project. Consider factors such as site location, environmental impact, regulatory requirements and potential challenges. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the project’s potential risks and rewards. Secure Financing: Determine the project’s budget and secure financing. This may involve working with lenders, investors or securing grants. A detailed and realistic budget is crucial for successful project planning and execution.

Incorporating brick in addition to concrete into your construction adds a dynamic and versatile element to the build. The combination of these materials not only enhances structural integrity, but also provides a visually appealing aesthetic. Brick is a versatile and timeless choice in commercial construction, offering a blend of durability and aesthetic appeal. Its sturdy nature provides excellent structural integrity, ensuring long-lasting and resilient buildings. Beyond its functional benefits, the varied colors and textures of brick allow for diverse design possibilities, enabling architects to create visually appealing facades that stand out in commercial landscapes. The durable nature of brick complements the strength and versatility of concrete, making it an ideal material for siding and retaining walls. The biggest advantage of brick siding, however, is that it is low maintenance. Since its establishment in 1881, Yankee Hill Brick has been collaborating with local contractors to provide top-quality bricks in various varieties and colors. Renowned for their commitment to quality, diverse color options and impeccable finishes, Yankee Hill has become a preferred choice for architects and design-build firms not only in the United States, but also internationally. Their expertise lies in crafting unique blends of clay, using a stateof-the-art, high-temperature firing kiln, enabling the production of the highest quality clay brick products in the industry. In addition to making and selling their own bricks, Yankee Hill also imports a selection of imported bricks from other manufacturers, chosen to complement the local Nebraska market. Another component that elevates your commercial construction project is the paint you use at the end of it. A professional paint job has the ability to transform not just the curb appeal of your business, but also its overall brand identity and interior allure. For exceptional painting services, we highly recommend Walter’s Painting Inc. Their top-tier offerings include both exterior and interior painting services, along with wallpaper removal, power washing, cabinet painting and a comprehensive range of coating removal and application solutions. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

CONSTRUCT

A KINGERY CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

Kingery Construction is thrilled to announce our expansion into the Omaha market through the acquisition of Construct Inc. This move aligns with our strategic goal of delivering exceptional commercial construction services to the communities of Nebraska. By integrating the expertise and knowledge of Construct Inc.’s employees in Omaha, we are confident that Kingery Construction will maintain our position as a premier provider of construction services for many years to come.

EXPERIENCE & A DEDICATION TO QUALITY SINCE 1924

A construction partner dedicated to making our client’s vision a reality for nearly a century. Building legacy projects by telling your story and exemplifying your purpose. Proud to have long standing relationships with owners, architects and subs.

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MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

Walter’s Painting is known for providing efficient and reliable services with minimal disruption to your commercial activities. Their commitment to completing projects on time and within budget makes them a trusted choice for commercial painting needs. The team at Walter’s Painting comprises fully insured, licensed and well-trained painters who utilize advanced equipment, adhering to the strictest safety standards. Their expertise extends across various industries, allowing them to cater to the painting Jeff Walters requirements of office buildings, schools, Walter’s Painting Inc. hotels, retail stores, apartment complexes, medical facilities and more. Choosing Walter’s Painting ensures a seamless and high-quality outcome for your commercial painting project. “Walter’s Painting uses only top-quality products and qualified painting crews experienced with helping clients make the most informed decorating and painting decisions,” said Owner Jeff Walters. “We enjoy helping bring a client’s vision to life, seeing everything come together from start to finish.” New construction and renovations have the potential to either enhance or diminish the character of a neighborhood. As such, architects and construction firms recognize the importance of considering the broader context of the area during the planning process, emphasizing the need to extend their focus beyond the building itself. An alternative approach to workplace development is remodeling an existing building. According to Tru-Built Construction, taking an existing building and implementing improvements is not only a viable option, but can also be an excellent choice for your business. In many cases, this approach can be more beneficial than starting a new construction project from scratch.

Specifically for Tru-Built, their focus on repurposing buildings becomes a cornerstone in building their reputation. This emphasis reflects their commitment to integrity and enhancing Lincoln's beauty, with the overarching goal of contributing to an improved living environment for the community. For your commercial construction needs, Tru-Built Construction boasts a comprehensive in-house capability that covers every aspect of a project, providing the convenience of having all necessary resources under one roof. This enables them to tailor and assemble the ideal team perfectly suited to meet the specific needs of a project. Specializing in design and build solutions, Tru-Built excels in delivering exceptional outcomes for a diverse range of projects. While not physically involved in the construction of commercial buildings, REGA Engineering Group plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of such projects. Functioning as a comprehensive civil engineering firm, they bring expertise in various areas, including commercial site development, ALTA surveys, floodplain development, platting, landscape architecture and irrigation design and investigative engineering. Their expanded footprint across multiple states has contributed to their growth in knowledge and problemsolving capabilities. The continuous presence of REGA Engineering Group's engineering professionals throughout the construction process acts as a crucial safeguard against potential issues. REGA Engineering Group's engineers conduct on-site visits throughout the construction process, closely monitoring water and drainage plans, ensuring they meet or exceed the needs of various project components. The diverse range of public and private civil engineering projects undertaken by REGA highlights their proficiency. Their portfolio encompasses site development and grading, recreational facilities, pedestrian/recreation trail design, roadway plans, profiles and design, parking lot design, storm and sanitary sewer analysis and design, storm sewer drainage studies, detention facilities, potable

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C O C MO M N E S R T C R I U A C L T I O N

Select a Project Team: Assemble a skilled and experienced project team, including architects, engineers, contractors and project managers. Collaborate with professionals who have a track record in commercial construction and understand local building codes and regulations. Site Selection & Acquisition: Choose an appropriate site for the commercial project, considering factors such as accessibility, zoning regulations and future expansion possibilities. Once the site is selected, proceed with the acquisition process, ensuring legal and regulatory compliance. Design Development: Work closely with architects and engineers to develop detailed construction plans and specifications. Consider sustainability and energy efficiency in the design phase. Obtain necessary approvals from local authorities and regulatory bodies.

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PERSHING DEMOLITION

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pershingdemolition@gmail.com

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RESURFACING / STAINING / STAMPED STONE / SLATE & WOOD FINISHES / REPAIR & RESTORATION

water-system design and soil erosion controls for both temporary and permanent installations, along with utility relocations. REGA Engineering Group's wealth of experience and expertise positions them as a valuable asset in engineering and surveying services for commercial construction projects. With proficiency in various aspects of civil engineering and a broad scope of services, REGA contributes significantly to the success and smooth execution of commercial construction projects. Helping a client's vision come to life for a commercial construction project, particularly for new construction, involves several key steps to ensure a smooth and successful process. Below is Cheever Construction’s general outline of the steps typically involved: Initial Consultation and Planning: • Meet with the client to understand their vision, goals and requirements for the commercial construction project. • Discuss budget, timeline and any specific needs or constraints. • Conduct site visits and assessments to understand the scope of the project and any potential challenges. Design Phase: • Collaborate with architects, engineers and designers to develop conceptual drawings and plans based on the client's requirements and vision. • Review and revise designs with the client to ensure alignment with their expectations. • Obtain necessary permits and approvals from local authorities and regulatory bodies. Pre-Construction Phase: • Develop detailed construction plans, specifications and schedules. • Procure materials, equipment and subcontractors required for the project.

When you hire Concrete Craft® to beautify your home or business and be ready to hear "oohs" and "aahs" from everyone who sees it. When you tell them that it was half the cost of other materials with fewer hassles and less maintenance, you might even get a big round of applause. We consider ourselves craftspeople who take pride in bringing artistry to one of the most durable, affordable, and beautiful materials on earth. Your options to customize with color, design, and finishes are virtually limitless. We offer stamping, resurfacing, and staining, and because most projects are an overlay over existing materials, jobs go quicker, with a lot less mess and upheaval. When you’re ready to transform your space, choose the team with experience as solid as the materials we use.

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MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

• Establish a project management team and assign responsibilities. • Finalize contracts and agreements with suppliers, subcontractors and other stakeholders. Construction Phase: • Begin site preparation, including clearing, grading and utility work. • Commence building construction according to the approved plans and schedule. • Monitor progress and quality control throughout the construction process. • Address any unforeseen issues or challenges that arise during construction. • Keep the client informed of progress and any significant developments. Post-Construction Phase: • Conduct final inspections and ensure compliance with building codes and regulations. • Address any outstanding issues or deficiencies identified during inspections. • Obtain necessary certificates of occupancy and closeout documents. • Hand over the completed project to the client and provide any necessary training or support for facility operation and maintenance. • Address any warranty or postconstruction issues that may arise. “Throughout each phase of the project, Justin Kurtzer Cheever Construction effective communication and collaboration

with the client are essential to ensure that their vision is realized and that their needs and expectations are met,” said President Justin Kurtzer. “Flexibility and adaptability are also crucial, as construction projects often encounter unexpected challenges that require creative solutions. By following these steps and maintaining a focus on quality, timeliness and client satisfaction, Cheever Construction helps bring clients visions for a commercial construction project to life.” Transitioning to technology solutions, Engineered Controls stands out as the leading control technology contractor in Nebraska and Iowa, offering a comprehensive turnkey solution for building control. Since 1994, they have prioritized designing user-friendly building automation and security systems that ensure efficiency, occupant comfort and workplace safety. Their expertise covers system design, new construction, retrofit sales, installation, repair service and preventive maintenance for small buildings. According to Pat Killeen, the President and CEO, we are in an era where buildings, regardless of size and shape, can evolve into intelligent structures. Open protocol technology enables the connection of multiple subsystems on one network, optimizing energy efficiency, reducing maintenance costs and enabling centralized building control. Engineered Controls promotes a centralized approach for buildings, managing lighting, heating, cooling, security functions and more from one central location. This not only offers convenience, but is crucial for companies aspiring to adopt environmentally friendly practices. Pat Killeen highlights the significance of Engineered Controls' Energy and Environmental Optimization (EEO) program, stating, “EEO certified professionals swiftly assess a building's current state, collaborate Pat Killeen Engineered Controls on energy efficiency goals and guide

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C O C MO M N E S R T C R I U A C L T I O N

Permitting & Approvals: Initiate the permitting process by submitting construction plans to relevant authorities for approval. Ensure that all required permits and approvals are obtained before starting construction. Delays in this phase can significantly impact the project timeline. Bid & Contract: Invite competitive bids from qualified contractors. Evaluate proposals based on experience, cost and timelines. Once a contractor is selected, negotiate and finalize a detailed contract that clearly outlines responsibilities, deliverables and payment terms. Mobilization & Construction: Begin mobilization by establishing onsite facilities and securing necessary equipment and materials. Initiate the construction phase, ensuring that the project adheres to the agreedupon schedule and quality standards. Regularly communicate with the project team to address any issues promptly. Quality Control & Monitoring: Implement a robust quality control and monitoring system throughout the construction process. Regularly inspect work to ensure compliance with design specifications and industry standards. Address any deviations promptly to maintain project integrity.

owners and managers through a structured process of analysis and discovery. The program's software identifies underperforming buildings, automating corrective actions and EEO certified professionals accelerate the implementation of popular energy conservation measures, optimizing facilities for enhanced efficiency.” Embarking on the construction of a commercial building is a multifaceted undertaking that demands careful consideration of intricate details and strategic decision-making. However, with the assistance of local experts in Lincoln, the entire process can be streamlined, transforming what may seem daunting into a smoother and more manageable project. These local professionals bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, ensuring that each step of the construction journey is handled with precision and efficiency. From the initial planning stages to the final touches, their in-depth knowledge of local regulations, construction techniques and industry best practices enables them to navigate the complexities of the construction process seamlessly. What sets these Lincoln-based experts apart is their ability to not only meet but exceed your expectations. They understand the unique aspects of the local landscape and can tailor their approach to align with the specific requirements of your project. By leveraging their established relationships with local authorities, suppliers and contractors, they can facilitate a more streamlined approval process and ensure that your project progresses smoothly. Contact these local experts in Lincoln today to kickstart the construction of your next commercial construction project with confidence! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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MARCH 2024 Strictly Business

Joining

Organizations

Twice a year, in March and September, Strictly Business puts together a Joining Organizations feature. We want to make sure that these organizations have a chance to get their name out there and share their current efforts, membership benefits, partnership opportunities and anything else the community should be aware of. Community organizations contribute to the fabric of our economy by bringing industry leaders together, offering education and resources to their members and partnering with other local entities to implement positive change in our area. There are so many dedicated, passionate groups of like-minded individuals who are all committed to making a difference in their professional, cultural and social communities. Joining these groups often results in forming new relationships that, in turn, lead to personal and professional growth and success. Here at Strictly Business, we stand behind the hard-working organizations that continuously better Lincoln and its occupants. We do this by offering discounted rates to these organizations so they can highlight their upcoming events and meetings, accomplishments, awards, members, staff and opportunities for involvement. In Lincoln, you will find organizations and association representing nearly every profession or industry – many of which have national, regional, state and/or local chapters who would love to have you as a member. With countless reputable and talented professionals in Lincoln, it can be difficult to stand out. One of the best ways to stand out and become a household name in the community is to get involved in every way you can. By finding an organization or association that matches your interest, passions and goals, your commitment to excellence in the Lincoln community will shine through and differentiate you from other local businesses.

Strictly Business MARCH 2024

Rotary brings together a global network of volunteer leaders who dedicate their time and talent to tackle the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges. Rotary connects 1.2 million members from more than 200 countries and geographical areas. Their work impacts lives at local and international levels. Locally, members of Giving Spirits Evening Rotary Club are dedicated people who share a passion for both community service and friendship. Becoming a Rotarian connects you with a diverse group of community members who share your drive to give back. Just to name a few, Rotary events have included a March Madness Bracket Challenge, an Annual Poker Tournament and a Kentucky Derby fundraiser. All events are open to the public! In addition to these events, we continue to complete service projects. Lincoln Giving Spirits Evening Rotary Club’s meetings occur every other week on Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at JCMF Children’s Charities, 8445 Executive Woods Dr., STE B. Meetings feature a new speaker on topics of interest to Rotarians, the community and general subjects. The club accepts new members by invitation, but anyone is welcome to attend a meeting as a guest. To learn more, please visit www. givingspiritseveningrotary.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

American Mar keting Association (AMA) Lincoln has been the leading resource for Lincoln-area marketers for 40 years. Today, they support marketers and advertisers in the community through networking events, lunch and learns, and in-depth workshops. Membership in the organization gives you access to local and national benefits, like marketing toolkits and continual learning opportunities. New member benefits are routinely added, so you’re always getting value. AMA Affinity Groups were introduced earlier this year, and make it easier to connect with other marketers at a national level. Many AMA Lincoln events are open to non-members and members, though members receive discounted (sometimes free) tickets. Want to dip your toes in the chapter? Start by attending “Coffee Happy Hour,” a free, informal monthly networking event held at rotating coffee shops throughout the city. For more information on AMA Lincoln and to check their events calendar, visit amalincoln.org. T h e L i n c o l n Yo u n g Professionals Group (Lincoln YPG) is dedicated to empowering young professionals with educational, leadership and networking opportunities. Lincoln keeps its young professionals here by fostering a collaborative community enriched with a bolstering economy, connectivity and endless opportunities. The Lincoln Young Professionals Group believes members can make the difference they want to see, develop a career that is pleasing to them and grow into the professional that they want to be. To learn more about Lincoln YPG, please visit www.lincolnypg.com, email Mia Wilken at mwilken@lcoc.com or call (402) 436-2355. The Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL) is a visible, effective and respected trade association which promotes home building through professional education, member communication and civic participation, and which represents builders and associated professionals in community, governmental and industry forums. With over 500 members, HBAL proudly promotes the Nebraska Builders Home & Garden Show, Spring & Fall Parade of Homes and Tour of Remodeled Homes. These events not only benefit the members, but also the public. HBAL offers networking, education and training to its members, along with representing the industry at Local and State levels of government. To learn more about joining the Home Builders Association of Lincoln, go to www.hbal.org for a membership application and to see the many services of this 73-year old association. To b e a L i n c o l n Chamber of Commerce (LCOC) member is to be a p a r t n e r. T h e Chamber honors that partnership by creating opportunities for growth and development, while advocating for the best environment for Lincoln businesses to thrive. They understand each member has unique ideas and ambitions in mind, and they are here to provide the best opportunities for you to get the most out of your membership. To find out more about how to get your business engaged, contact Derek Feyerherm at (402) 434-5344 or via email at dfeyerherm@ lincoln.org. For more information about the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, visit the website at www.LCOC.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

S C O R E Lincoln needs YOU! If you want to make a lasting impact in your small business community, SCORE is the place to do that. SCORE volunteers help thousands of entrepreneurs start small businesses and achieve new levels of success in their existing businesses. Volunteer with SCORE and give back to your community, connect with fellow business owners and pass on your knowledge and expertise to the next generation of entrepreneurs. Small business owners receiving three or more hours of mentoring report higher revenues and increased growth. SCORE is America’s premier source of free, confidential business advice. Most SCORE mentors own or have owned and operated their own companies or served in management positions. They understand business challenges because they’ve faced them too. Take the step to become a SCORE volunteer mentor. Visit lincoln.score. org to sign up. Want more info? Email infolincoln@scorevolunteer. org to learn more about SCORE Lincoln. Better Business Bureau (BBB) has been assisting U.S. consumers and businesses since 1912. It is a private, nonprofit, businesssupported organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Nearly 400,000 BBB Accredited Businesses support BBB’s mission of advancing marketplace trust, and their dues and contributions allow BBB to offer its information and services to consumers at no charge. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Profiles on more than 5.3 million companies, over 11,000 charity reviews, dispute resolution services, alerts and educational information on topics affecting the marketplace. People today are overwhelmed with choices – and often unsure about where to find verified, unbiased information. There are more than 32 million businesses in North America alone, and hundreds of thousands of sites around the world where people shop online. Also, thousands of free and subscription websites offer a range of information, including: reviews, reports, directories, listings and gripe sites. BBB is the resource where you can find trusted, verified information. Go to BBB.org/nebraska, call (800) 649-6814 and follow on social media (@BBBMidwestPlains).

The Associa ted Builders and Contractors (ABC) Nebraska and South Dakota Chapter supports the commercial construction industry through apprenticeship and safety training, advocacy and workforce development. In addition, they offer opportunities for networking, and their Excellence in Construction Awards allow them to showcase members’ project successes. The organization helps their members and their members’ employees with the opportunity to succeed by winning work and delivering work safely, ethically and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which they work. ABC strives to be the leading voice for free enterprise and the merit shop philosophy of construction in Nebraska. They offer apprenticeship training through the NCCER Curriculum, continuing education and leadership courses not only to members, but also to anyone wishing to enter the construction industry for a bountiful career. For more information about ABC Nebraska and South Dakota, visit abcnesd.org or contact Anne Klute at (402) 477-4451 / annek@abcnesd.org. MARCH 2024 Strictly Business 79

At Professional Networ king Group (PNG), they are all about relationships. It’s the bread and butter to making a business successful. Through P N G ’s f i ve L i n c o l n groups, and one Omaha g ro u p, b i - we e k l y meetings, quarterly socials (all groups are invited to an evening networking with a guest) and donations back to the community of Lincoln, they’re constantly working to network and build relationships with the best and the brightest around town. Join this networking community and watch how you can impact the bottom line on your business like never before. If the thought of creating a new network makes you a little nervous, take a look at why you should take the plunge: • Each group averages over one referral per person per meeting. That equates to over 1,600 referrals per year. • Every year, each group refers over SIX FIGURES worth of business. • Automatically add 18–25 salespeople to your team. • PNG donates both time and goods back to the Lincoln community each year, including over $5.2K last year. • The membership cost of $250 is less than half of competitors’ costs. • The group culture actually allows you to laugh and have fun as you are doing business, all without the use of a stopwatch. For more information, please visit pnglincoln.com.

The Lincoln Independent Business Association (LIBA) offers numerous opportunities to network with other Lincoln business leaders. LIBA’s monthly BizNet events are free to attend with complimentary snacks and beverages. This provides a great place to meet other local business people and City Council members. Many of the people who attend BizNet are eager businessmen and women who are ready to learn more about your business. It's free to attend and you can invite customers and vendors to give them an opportunity to grow their businesses as well. While BizNet is an after-hours event, LIBA also has a morning “Coffee & Contacts” every month that is sponsored by Custom Blinds & Design. Also free to attend, this event has breakfast snacks and coffee. With this event being early in the morning, it is a wonderful way to start off your day by networking and exchanging business cards. Lastly, the monthly LIBA luncheon features the opportunity to meet dozens of business owners and community leaders each month. For $20, you can eat a delicious meal, network with likeminded leaders and listen to a special guest speaker. Call (402) 466-3419 and ask about joining LIBA. A membership staff would be happy to visit your office and answer all of your questions. You can also visit www.liba.org for more information.

Strictly Business MARCH 2024

Leadership Lincoln is at the forefront of building tomorrow’s community leaders. Open to everyone in the Lincoln area, Leadership Lincoln invites applications every spring. With classes launching in August and September, participants join a nine-month immersive experience, aligning with the academic year. This program connects members with prominent figures across Lincoln’s business, education, government and nonprofit landscapes, empowering them to take an active role in their community. In addition to the core leadership program, Leadership Lincoln presents regular public “Hot Topics” sessions. These forums provide valuable insights into pertinent issues, from candidate selection to pandemic management, healthcare inequalities, low-income housing, park development and more. A standout feature of the program is the Poverty Simulation exercise, a unique experience that reveals the intricate challenges of living in poverty. Leadership Lincoln is not just an organization; it’s a thriving network. With over 4,000 alumni actively enhancing their communities locally, statewide and nationally, Leadership Lincoln continues to shape the future. Discover how you can be a part of this transformative journey. Visit www.leadershiplincoln.org for more details.

Lincoln HR strives to be a first-class resource on people management for the community. Lincoln HR connects professionals to solve every day workforce problems, provides quality education, collaborates with community leaders and leads change for our industry. The organization comprises a large network of human resources professionals ranging from senior level executives to those just entering the profession and welcomes new members monthly. Benefits to membership include: • Monthly meetings with learning events and professional speakers • Professional networking events • Career development • Collaboration of HR information • Monthly newsletter resources • Membership directory • Professional certification study groups • Legislative updates • Community and diversity programs For more information or to register for a meeting, visit www. lincolnhr.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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