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Dear Readers, Clients, Printers, and Employees,
As we celebrate 31 years in business, I want to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you. It has been an incredible journey, and we owe our success to the unwavering support and dedication of our entire community.
To Our Readers and Friends:Thank you for your loyalty and trust. Your engagement and feedback have been invaluable in shaping our content and services. It is your interest and enthusiasm that motivate us to continually strive for excellence.
To Our Clients:We are deeply grateful for the opportunities you have given us to serve you. Your partnership and confidence in our capabilities have been the cornerstone of our growth and achievements. We cherish the relationships we have built and look forward to many more years of collaboration.
To Our Magazine Printer:Your expertise and commitment to quality have been instrumental in ensuring that our publications meet the highest standards. Your hard work behind the scenes does not go unnoticed, and we appreciate your crucial role in our success.
To Our Employees:Thank you for your dedication, hard work, and passion. It is your creativity, innovation, and relentless pursuit of excellence that have driven our company forward. You are the heart and soul of Strictly Business, and I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together. As we reflect on the past 31 years, we are reminded of just how blessed we have been. The journey has not always been easy, but with the support and encouragement of our incredible community, we have overcome challenges and celebrated numerous successes.
We can’t believe it’s already August. It’s time to send your kids back to school and prepare for fall as the seasons begin to change. We have so much to look forward to as July comes to a close and we promise continue to offer you the best help we can.
We are excited about the future and are committed to continuing to provide you with the highest quality content and marketing services. Thank you for being a part of our journey and for helping us reach this remarkable milestone.
With deepest gratitude,
Paige Zutavern President, Strictly Business
Since its inception in 2006, Lincoln Coin & Bullion has grown into a full-scale Precious Metal Bullion Dealer that serves those who wish to Purchase and Sell 3- to 7-figures of Gold, Silver, Platinum and Palladium Bullion. It also deals in Historic Currency Collections (numismatic coins and bills), including providing quotes and paid appraisals. Lincoln Coin & Bullion does both bullion and currency collections–often if someone has one, they have the other.
Lincoln Coin and Bullion’s main focus is its growth as a company. “Our volume has tripled in the past five years out of necessity,” says Owner Pat Moran. “I’m approaching the five-year mark of taking over the business, and we are in the middle of expanding, renovating and hiring.”
Lincoln Coin & Bullion is Not Your Typical Coin/ Bullion Shop; What Makes Them Unique?
• Private & Secure – Lincoln Coin & Bullion realizes folks often prefer to have a small footprint, to not broadcast their personal business, which is why they are Locked-Door & AppointmentOnly. Lincoln Coin & Bullion keeps only minimal numismatics at its location, to eliminate folks milling about. They keep a decent stock, but any bullion customers order gets shipped to Lincoln Coin & Bullion’s location first for customer examination. In addition to the latest version of the Sigma Tester (with thru-testing), Lincoln Coin & Bullion also has Ultrasonic Testers and an XRF (x-ray).
PRODUCTION TEAM:
Director of Operations Kacey Russell – Kacey@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com
Art Director Jayda Lyon – Jayda@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com
Editorial Interns: Rowan Havranek and Avery Carl SALES TEAM: President/Sales Paige Zutavern – Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Publisher/Founder/Accounting Shayne Zutavern – SZutavern@Yahoo.com
• On-Hand, First-Rate Bullion Inventory – Lincoln Coin & Bullion provides Walk-in/Walk-out, SeeBefore-You-Buy, and not everything-underthe-sun service. They specialize in a concise, quality selection of inventory, the bullion that effectively does its job. Customers are not shooting themselves in the foot with any of Lincoln Coin & Bullion’s items.
• Informative & Transparent – Lincoln Coin & Bullion tells its customers the things they would want to know, without needing to ask. They let you know just how they get paid (their cost of business, including how they derive their pricing). Lincoln Coin & Bullion’s web listings show quantities and premiums, and their photos are not photo shopped.
Call (402) 327-2853 to arrange an appointment, or email info@lincolncoinandbullion.com for additional information. Lincoln Coin & Bullion looks forward to serving new customers!
Lincoln Industries, renowned for its unique wellness culture, continues to set the bar high. Fifteen years ago, the company received national recognition as one of the “Healthiest Workplaces” in the world at the 5th Global Healthy Workplace Summit in Singapore. Their innovative wellness program soon caught the attention of CNN’s chief medical correspondent, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, who showcased the company’s wellness program in a special segment, which offers a fully paid trip to climb a fourteen-thousand-foot peak, also known as a “14’er.”
The company is currently in the final stages of planning its 19th Go Platinum! Climb. On Sunday, July 21, over 100 team members will embark on an ascent of Mt. Democrat and Missouri Mountain, two prominent 14’ers on the Continental Divide of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.
Vice-President of People Resources, Scott Miller, reflects on the continued popularity of the event. “Last year’s climb was so well attended that we had to split the climbing teams across multiple mountains. We had over 150 people ascending three different mountains, making the logistics comparable to a small military operation,” Miller said humorously.
Health and Wellness Director, Aaron May, led the coordination efforts, supported by a dedicated group of climb support team members, affectionately known as the “sherpas” of the event. They handle everything from planning the hiking routes to organizing transportation to the trailheads.
“The team’s responsibility is to ensure that all participants are wellprepared for this adventure and have a memorable experience with top-notch lodging and food. We aim to instill a mindset of overcoming adversity and relying on each other to achieve extraordinary results, just as we do daily at our manufacturing facilities,” May explained. One of those dedicated sherpa’s is Environmental Services Manager, Aaron Lemke. Lemke wasn’t always a wellness advocate. Reflecting on his transformation, he shared, “I used to smoke, was overweight, and wasn’t into fitness.” Now, he is a regular at the company’s onsite gym, does yoga and just completed a 10 year-stint on the climb support team.
Accounts Receivable Team Leader, Kayelynn Roche, vividly remembers her first summit. “Coming up over the ridge of rocks to reach the summit was overwhelming! Multiple emotions hit me, exhilaration, joy, extreme pride and peace. I cried! What made my climb even more special was that I got to share the summit with my boss(es) and climb with one of my best friends.”
While many companies continue to face workforce challenges in today’s employment market, with US worker engagement at an 11-year low according to Gallup, Lincoln Industries stands out by maintaining a strong commitment to its culture and achieving high employee engagement scores. This dedication has earned the company a place on Newsweek’s 2024 list of "America’s Greatest Workplaces." To further explore Lincoln Industries’ innovation, visit lincolnindustries.com.
Eustis Body Shop is excited to announce that the Lincoln Amber Hill location at 88th and Highway 2 has officially become part of the Rivian Certified Collison Network! As the first of its kind in Lincoln and one of Nebraska's few Rivian-certified body shops, Eustis Body Shop is now equipped to provide its repair expertise to local Rivian owners.
With this certification, they are capable of repairing all aspects of a Rivian vehicle, including the structural and battery components. Additionally, being part of the Rivian Certified Collision Network enables Eustis Body Shop to carry out warranty work dispatched by Rivian Service Centers across the region.
Vice-President Ryan Clark said, "We're excited to be able to serve Rivian owners in Lincoln and the surrounding communities. With more and more EVs on the road, we're happy that Eustis Body Shop can provide service for Rivian owners."
To become a Rivian Approved Collision Center, Eustis Body Shop technicians undergo specialized training to develop expertise in handling unique equipment, OEM parts and repair techniques for Rivian electric vehicles. This comprehensive certification process involves devoting numerous hours to training, ensuring that technicians meet Rivian's stringent standards. To lean more, visit eustisbodyshop. com or visit the location at 8820 Amber Hill Ct.
Beginning with a single shop in 1979, Eustis Body Shop has been serving Central and Eastern Nebraska for over 40 years, providing top-quality collision, dent and glass repair. With a commitment to excellence and continuous training, Eustis Body Shop ensures every customer receives the best service possible
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.
Venue is revamping Venue at Home program with a brand new website! With the Venue at Home program, you can have chef-crafted meals that are ready to heat and eat within minutes. Venue has created weekly meals each featuring two new items, created by their chefs, and changed every week. You can build your own package and create your own subscription bundle, or place a one-time order. Every meal is available for delivery or pick-up; you choose Monday or Tuesday, with their citywide delivery service and get a fresh chef-crafted meal in no time! Venue at Home offers entrees, bowls, pastas, salads, sides and desserts. Sign up today at their new website venueathome.net.
Venue is a restaurant and lounge that every Nebraskan craves and every out-of-town visitor hears about. Their award winning cuisine is handmade from scratch with ingredients that come from the freshest farm-to-table products from Nebraska farms and exquisite seafood from all around the world. They take pride in being GlutenFree Certified. Learn more about the Venue at Home program at venueathome.com or make a reservation for Venue Restaurant & Lounge at yourvenue.net.
Sumner Palace Announces it has Received a Deficiency-Free
In the most recent survey administered by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, Sumner Place Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation was rated deficiency-free! It is unusual for a skilled nursing facility to receive a deficiency-free survey, meaning all services provided at this facility meet or exceeded all state and federal standards.
All skilled nursing facilities are inspected annually to evaluate services and renew state licensure. Unannounced, surveyors come in to interview, observe and check records. If each of the hundreds of regulations are met, the skilled nursing and care center is awarded a “deficiency-free” survey.
“When you visit Sumner Place we want you to feel our compassion, experience our courtesy and observe our competence in all that we do. We live ‘Dignity in Life’ at Sumner Place,” states Megan Herter, Public Relations Coordinator. This accomplishment is a great honor and testament to the care provided at Sumner Place Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation.
They would like to thank the dedicated and hardworking team members for the amazing care they provide! Thank you to the residents and loved ones for your support. Congratulations, Sumner Place!
For more information about Sumner Place, located at 1750 S 20th St., call (402) 475-6791 or visit sumnerplacecare.com.
James Arthur Vineyards is excited to announce that they will be present at the annual Nebraska Balloon & Wine Festival. This Festival is your chance to taste award-winning wines, see hot air balloons launch and balloon glows, and enjoy delicious foods, live entertainment and more. Free parking is also available! The festival admission is just $17 per person if you buy in advanced or $21 if you buy them at the festival entrance. General admission tickets are also available at the entrance at $15. Children are welcome with ages 5-12 being $8 per person and children under 5 being free! Get tickets at showofficeonline. com/NebraskaWineBalloon.
The festival takes place Friday, August 16 from 5 to 11 p.m. and Saturday, August 17 from 3 to 11 p.m. Food and wine experience packages, VIP packages and helicopter rides are also available. Order your tickets today to enjoy James Arthur Vineyards wine while watching hot air balloons take to the sky.
James Arthur Vineyards is home to some of Nebraska’s finest wine Built on passion, dedication and old-fashion hard work, James Arthur Vineyards has built a business Nebraskans can be proud of. After all, it’s their home, love and livelihood. From their family to yours! Learn more at jamesarthurvineyards.com.
PepperJax Grill is thrilled to announce the grand reopening of its 2511 S 48th Street location. After a short period of closure, PepperJax Grill is once again ready to serve the vibrant community of Lincoln. PepperJax Grill prides itself on its customizable meal options. Its customers choose their build, anything from Phillies, burritos and salads to rice bowls and nachos. Then, customers can choose from a variety of protein, veggies, toppings and sauces to make it their own!
This location is one of two PepperJax locations in the Lincoln community and opened five years ago. Now, with its doors reopened, it is eager to resume its tradition of delivering unforgettable dining experiences. The Lincoln 48th St. PepperJax prides itself on having a dual drive-thru line, offering its patrons even more convenience. It welcomes guests to indulge in the warm and inviting atmosphere of its interior dining area.
To celebrate PepperJax’s return and express gratitude to its community, they held a VIP Day on May 4. On this special occasion, all sales generated were generously donated to People's City Mission as it is part of PepperJax's mission to give back to the community.
"We are thrilled to reopen our doors and welcome back our loyal patrons," said Brett Weis, CEO and Owner of PepperJax Grill. "Our team is committed to delivering the same exceptional dining experience that Lincoln has come to know and love.”
PepperJax Grill’s grand opening and ribbon cutting was held on Monday, May 6 at 11 a.m. To learn more on PepperJax’s catering services, menu or other locations, visit pepperjaxgrill.com.
The Charging Station, located at 6128 Havelock Ave., opened January 3, is an exquisite coffeehouse located in the heart of downtown Havelock. They are the only two-story coffee shop in Lincoln and are very proud of that. They serve more than just coffee; they serve variety of teas, breakfast sandwiches and are famous for their panini sandwiches.
Now, The Charging Station is excited to announce that they are now offering free reservations for not only the conference room, but for the entire café! You can now, from 4 to 9 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays, reserve The Charging Station for any event you want. If you’re looking for a relaxing environment with a wide range of gourmet coffees and teas, as well as amazing snacks and sandwiches, look no further than The Charging Station.
At The Charging Station, they understand the importance of community and connection. Their coffee house serves as a gathering place for locals to come together, whether it be with friends, family or acquaintances. It is a space where relationships are fostered, memories are made and conversations flow freely. Learn more at chargingstation.coffee or contact them at (531) 500-2527.
Live2Lead’s simulcast event, on October 24, is focused on speaking “from the heart.” Tickets are on sale now! Don’t miss out on empowering words from keynote speakers John C. Maxwell, best-selling author; Michael Jr., comedian and actor; Chris Robinson, EVP of Entrepreneur Solutions and Dr. Susan Meyerle, Executive Director of the Maxwell Leadership Certified Team!
Attendees learn from renowned leadership experts in various industries, gain new perspectives on relevant topics, and leave prepared with practical tools to maximize their leadership abilities and trajectories. Our attendees leave equipped and excited to lead and create change with renewed passion and drive.
For those that love to get in front of leaders, this is a great opportunity to become a sponsor. For more information on this and the Live2Lead event, visit live2lead.live, or email susan@2liferesources.com.
Join them for the ribbon cutting and grand opening of the new Tru by Hilton in Lincoln, where vibrant energy meets modern comfort. The ribbon cutting will be at 4 to 6 p.m. with an open house to follow! The event is being hosted at 305 N 50th St. and is free to attend! They would love to see you there.
At Tru, you get all the essentials in a perfect balance of form and function. With tons of storage, plenty of space to charge your devices, a mobile desk and their big, bright bathrooms, everything you need is in easy reach! You deserve Tru’s best every day: a clean, comfortable place to stay and service with a smile. Make each night at your hotel your best night with Tru. Contact them through their website to book a room at hilton.com/en/brands/tru-by-hilton.
Southeast Community College announced a partnership with the Lincoln Police Department to provide college credits for commissioned officers who complete LPD’s Training Academy.
“I am very appreciative of the willingness of LPD to be the first to partner with SCC to establish a pathway for future partnerships,” said Dr. Paul Illich, SCC President.
Through the Training Academy Partnership (TAP), LPD Training Academy graduates can apply for up to 30 credit hours toward a degree in criminal justice. This program is available to LPD Training Academy graduates from the past 10 years. Graduates from the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center can also apply for the program.
“We are thrilled that TAP will be the first-of-its-kind at SCC as the college works to model this program with other law enforcement agencies,” said Lincoln Police Chief Michon Morrow.
Credit for Prior Learning is the evaluation of life and work experiences gained outside of an academic environment for college credit. CPL is used to grant college credit, certification or advanced standing toward further education or training. LPD Training Academy graduates will be eligible to apply CPL to satisfy curriculum requirements toward an associate degree at SCC.
“The TAP partnership gives our officers a meaningful opportunity to invest in their career success,” said Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird. “This is another tool in our toolbox to recruit and retain officers, supporting public safety in Lincoln.”
LPD incentivizes higher education for its officers by providing additional pay annually for those with an associate or bachelor’s degree. Officers are eligible for full tuition reimbursement through the First Responder Recruitment and Retention Act.
“I believe the partnership is an excellent example of what it means to be an open-access institution of higher education,” Illich noted.
Our Trusted Experts Are Here to Help. Finding the Right Care Option
On Thursday, June 20, True North Technologies had their official ribbon cutting by the Chamber of Commerce at their NEW office location at 7800 O St. Suite 103.
Joined by an enthusiastic crowd of family, friends, and valued clients, the True North Technologies team felt the love and support from their community. The celebration honored the dedication of Renee Sobotka, the Founder and CEO, whose journey to establish the company as a full-service digital marketing agency was inspired by Bill George's book, "Discover Your True North."
To discover more about True North Technologies and their journey, or to connect with Renee Sobotka, visit go-tnt.com or reach out via email at Renee@go-tnt.com.
True North Technologies is committed to nurturing people, businesses and communities. They specialize in crafting compelling messages that generate buzz around your business. Their passion for their work is shown through their industry knowledge and unwavering dedication to each project they undertake, no matter the size. For more information, contact them at hello@go-tnt.com or call (402) 420-5101.
Get ready for a sparkling clean car with even more convenience. JetSplash Car Wash, a Lincoln staple since 2003, is proud to announce the expansion of its local footprint with two new locations slated to open soon.
JetSplash #8 will be located at 851 West O St., offering a speedy and spotless car wash experience to West Lincoln, opening this fall. Plus, JetSplash #9, at 27th and Vine St., will provide even greater accessibility to residents in the north side of town.
These additions will bring JetSplash to a total of nine locations across Lincoln—making it an ideal partner for businesses seeking a convenient and comprehensive fleet care plan, learn more about this at JetSplash.com/Fleet-Programs.
"We're thrilled to continue serving the Lincoln community with our efficient, high-quality washes," says Kinsey Bauer, Sales Manager at JetSplash. "Our business memberships offer a multitude of benefits, including discounted washes, priority service with our Fast Pass tags and easy account management—perfect for keeping your fleet sparkling clean and running smoothly."
JetSplash's commitment extends beyond a clean car. This local business proudly employs over 200 Lincoln residents and is passionate about giving back to the community. Their dedication to speed, sustainability and customer satisfaction ensures a positive experience for everyone.
JetSplash Car Wash is a Lincoln-owned and operated company dedicated to providing fast, spotless car washes with a focus on customer satisfaction and community involvement. Visit JetSplash.com for more information on locations, washes, memberships and offers.
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Center Sphere is proud to announce that on two occasions, Wednesday, August 7, and Tuesday, August 27, they are hosting a network-wide Coffee and Connections in hopes of getting you connected with the area’s most connected professionals. There’s always a benefit to knowing someone and Center Sphere is to make that connection even easier to make! Both of these events take place from 8:30 to 10 a.m. with the August 7 Coffee and Connections taking place at Midwest Bank, 2655 Jamie Ln., and the August 27 event taking place at 8811 Appaloosa Ln. Coffee is always better with friends, so get closer with industry professionals at this networking event. Relationships are at the heart of everything and Center Sphere believes that if you invest in connections, maintain authenticity and lead with generosity, the possibilities are endless. There here to provide a platform centered on authentic relationships that ultimately build trust and increase opportunity. Their vision is to be a catalyst for growth for individuals, businesses and non-profits within their communities. They are committed to authenticity, consistency and innovation as they deliver the best possible experience to their members and those they serve. Learn more at centersphere. com or contact Ashley Hinze, Director of Membership, at ashley@ centersphere.com.
In today's digital age, cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, posing significant risks to businesses' operations and data integrity. ALLO Smart Business addresses these challenges head-on with a suite of cutting-edge security measures designed to safeguard your business for only $35 a month. From point-of-sale systems (POS) to staff and customer guest networks, ALLO Smart Business offers a holistic approach to network security. Built-in firewalls and proactive network security traffic monitoring provide a robust defense against cyber threats. These features work seamlessly to detect and mitigate potential risks before they can impact your business operations.
Protecting your staff, critical business infrastructure and customers from cyberattacks and viruses are their top priority. ALLO Smart Business integrates advanced threat protection mechanisms, ensuring that your business remains secure against the latest cyber threats. Their proactive approach to security includes continuous monitoring and real-time threat intelligence, giving you peace of mind and allowing you to focus on what matters most – running your business.
Key Features of ALLO Smart Business Cyber Security:
• Built-in Firewalls: Act as a barrier to prevent unauthorized access and safeguard your business data.
• Proactive Network Security Monitoring: Continuously scans network traffic to detect and respond to potential threats in real-time.
• Advanced Threat Protection: Utilizes real-time threat intelligence to protect against the latest cyberattacks and viruses.
For more information about ALLO Smart Business visit AlloBusiness. com/Smart or contact (844) 560-2556.
The Home Builders Association of Lincoln and the Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation held their annual golf tournament on Friday, June 7. 224 golfers played in the event this year at Highlands Golf Course which raised over $11,000. Frontier Bank was this year’s winning team with a score of 57.
The Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation was established in 2009 as a 501(c)(3) charitable, non-profit organization dedicated to the future of the home building industry in Lancaster County. The Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation’s mission is to support the educational and charitable activities of the Home Builders Association of Lincoln. The Foundation strives to support the community by contributing to community service projects focused on housing, as well as providing scholarships for students pursuing a career related to the building industry and providing funding for other industry related educational programs. Since 2010, the Foundation has distributed over $368,000 through our Residential and Interior Design contests, scholarship program and donations to high schools, local charities and disaster relief. To learn more, visit hbal.org/about-hbal/lincoln-home-builderscare-foundation.
Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminar is delighted to announce the topics for the upcoming monthly seminars, aimed at enriching and empowering the senior community through education and support. They’re held every first Wednesday at 10 a.m. at Suite 111 in the Clocktower shopping area, 70th and A St., and will cover essential aspects of retirement, including financial planning and technology.
On August 7, they’ll tackle "The Truth About Paying for Retirement." This promises to provide crucial information on managing finances during retirement. Attendees will learn about budgeting, investments and understanding retirement benefits.
Then, the September 4 seminar will focus on "Technology for Baby Boomers and Beyond." Recognizing the increasing role of technology in everyday life, this is designed to help seniors navigate the digital world with confidence. Participants will be introduced to the latest technological tools and trends, learn how to stay safe online and discover how technology can keep them connected with loved ones and engaged with the world.
In addition to those, Savvy Seniors is introducing the new Downsizing Club. This club is dedicated to helping seniors manage the overwhelming process of downsizing their homes. By offering practical advice, emotional support and valuable resources, the Downsizing Club aims to make this transition as smooth as possible.
To register or to learn more, visit NESavvySeniors.com or contact founder Alicia Chrastil at (402) 499-8147. Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot, as these events are highly popular and tend to fill up quickly.
The Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminars aim to empower seniors to make informed decisions and embrace the opportunities that retirement offers.
Firehouse Subs likes to think it just takes one mouthwatering sub to make any day feel like a party. Well now, you can feed everybody at your next party, meeting or event with Firehouse Subs catering. Now that's called being a gracious host. Plus, just like every purchase at Firehouse Subs, a portion of your catering sale will go toward providing lifesaving equipment for first responders.
There are two convenient Firehouse Subs locations in Lincoln to serve you! One at 200 N. 66th St., STE 201, which you can contact at (402) 904-4886 and the other at 5308 S 56th St. which you can contact at (531) 254-5216
For more Information or any inquiries, please contact Tom Mejstrik at Tom.Mejstrik@FirehouseSubs.com or call at (402) 730-6979.
Firehouse Subs is a restaurant chain with a passion for hearty and flavorful food, heartfelt service and public safety. Founded in Jacksonville, FL in 1994 by two brothers and former firefighters, Firehouse Subs is a brand built on decades of fire and police service, hot and hearty subs piled high with the highest quality meats and cheeses and its commitment to saving lives through the establishment of the non-profit Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation.
Firehouse Subs was named the number one brand in the restaurant industry that "Supports Local Community Activities." This year, Firehouse of America and Firehouse Subs suppliers will together donate a portion of purchases at Firehouse Subs locations to Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation for the purchase of lifesaving equipment, with a minimum donation of $1 million.
Enjoy more subs and save more lives. To learn more, visit firehousesubs. com.
Join Disrupting Traffick for an evening of inspiration and hope with special guest Tim Ballard! Last year, Tim Ballard’s powerful fight against trafficking was recounted in the film Sound of Freedom. This September, Tim will join Disrupting Traffick to share his story, and encourage everyone in their fight to end trafficking in Nebraska.
Tim Ballard spent over a decade working as a Special Agent for the Department of Homeland Security, where he was assigned to the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force as an undercover operative-helping dismantle child trafficking rings in the US and multiple foreign countries. He is now Senior Advisor to the SPEAR Fund which hopes to end human trafficking once and for all. This event takes place on Sunday, September 22, starting at 4 p.m. for select sponsors for a VIP cocktail with Tim Ballard, and 5 p.m. for the main event featuring cocktails, dinner, a keynote and dessert. Tickets are $100 which includes entrance to the event, two drink tickets, dinner and dessert. More information about tables and sponsors are available at disruptingtraffick.org/events.
Disrupting Traffick is a 501(c)(3) that believes each person is valuable. They believe each person is innately worthy, simply because they are human. Together is better, which is why they believe in collaborating as a community. Every small action can help end the trafficking cycle in Nebraska. Learn more and donate at disruptingtraffick.org.
The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and Visit Lincoln will be hosting the inaugural Latino Small Business Conference. This event, the first of its kind in Lincoln, is designed to support and empower the city’s vibrant Spanish-speaking business community.
The conference will take place on Saturday, August 24 at the Sandhills Global Event Center at 4100 N 84th St. The event will run from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering attendees a full day of networking, learning and inspiration. Registration is not required, as the event is free to attend. Interested parties can refer to the attached flyer for additional information or reach out to Raul Sarmiento for more information at Raul.Sarmiento@ubt.com
This groundbreaking event provides a unique opportunity for Spanish-speaking business owners to network and lean. Organized by University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension and Score, the conference will feature a dedicated space for business owners to connect with various resources and agencies that support business growth in Lincoln.
The Latino Small Business Conference is a testament to Lincoln’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive business environment. Learn more and register at extension.unl.edu/statewide/hall/latinosmall-business-conference-2024.
Union Bank & Trust’s mission is leadership, longevity and stability. The local family-owned bank provides all the products and services you need, but with personalized customer care that the big-box banks can’t begin to compete with. Learn more about ubt.com. Member FDIC.
Professional Networking Group (PNG) of Lincoln was thrilled to present the Food Bank of Lincoln a check for $2,809, providing over 5,600 meals for their fellow community members and neighbors. These funds were raised through PNG’s annual Pass the Hat campaign. Every spring, the local networking group encourages its members to donate to a selected charity at bi-weekly chapter meetings. The Food Bank of Lincoln was picked as the 2024 beneficiary because of its unique and impactful work in Southeast Nebraska. The check was presented at a PNG Companywide event on July 9.
"Our neighbors should not have to worry about where their next meal comes from, yet it is estimated that about 268,000 Nebraskans are food insecure," said Brad Brodersen, owner of PNG. "This is a pressing issue that requires our immediate attention. PNG is all about developing relationships to help each other grow our businesses. We can’t do that and ignore that, in our community, one in seven of our neighbors and one in five children do not have access to the food they need for healthy, productive, and active lives."
Professional Networking Group of Lincoln currently has five chapters in Lincoln and one in Omaha that meet every other week. The group culture is supportive and community-minded and makes it fun to do business, all without the use of a stopwatch. For more information, please visit pnglincoln.com or email Brad Brodersen at infoatpng@ gmail.com.
The Lincoln Airport has become a leader in the airport industry when it comes to community engagement and strategic partnerships. They are excited to announce their next name, image and likeness (NIL) partnership with University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Husker Athletics’ cross country and track athlete, Hannah Godwin.
Since 2021, NIL has created an opportunity for college athletes to use their recognition to collaborate with brands, and this partnership allows LNK to engage with athletes like Hannah to promote flying local. Godwin is a Nebraska native and is entering her senior year at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Throughout her time as a Husker, she has been an outstanding distance runner and an honor roll student. With her spare time Hannah loves to travel and support local. In addition to working with Godwin, LNK is now the Official Airport of the Good Life Halfsy, organized by Pink Gorilla Events. Linda Brown, Sponsorship Director said, “Pink Gorilla Events is excited to team up with the Lincoln Airport as the Official Airport of the 2024 Good Life Halfsy.” Pink Gorilla Events is an event production company focused on producing “big experiences for runners,” including arguably the most significant race in Nebraska, The Good Life Halfsy. Runners and supporters from all over travel to compete in this local race, and LNK is honored to be affiliated with this renowned event. Join LNK and Hannah at the finish line on October 27! To register, visit goodlifehalfsy.com.
Tillotson Enterprises, Inc. is excited to announce the opening of its location on 8000 Fletcher Ave., STE 100. To celebrate, Tillotson Enterprises’ ribbon cutting will be on Friday, August 9, from 10 to 10:30 a.m., at its Fletcher Avenue location.
Tillotson Enterprises, Inc. is an employee-owned company in Nebraska, providing services such as roof coatings, spray foam, concrete lifting, foundation repair and basement waterproofing. They became an ESOP in January 2024.
For over 30 years, the employee-owned team at Tillotson Enterprises, Inc. has been the go-to roofer in Lincoln for quality work and exceptional service. Tillotson Enterprises offers the following services:
• Commercial Roofing
• Roof Coatings
• Spray Foam Insulation
• Concrete Lifting
• Concrete Leveling
• Foundation Repair
• Waterproofing
• Epoxy Flooring
“With a commitment to honesty, integrity and punctuality, we deliver top-notch solutions for commercial roofing, roof coatings, spray foam insulation, concrete lifting/leveling, foundation repair and more,” says the Tillotson Enterprises, Inc. team. “Trust us to provide expert services without upselling unnecessary products.”
For reliable results, contact Tillotson Enterprises, Inc. at (308) 3712339, or visit their website at tillotsonenterprisesincne.com.
Community is important to the people of Husker Rehab. They care about their patients as neighbors and friends, and they help support the communities they serve to keep them strong and vital. That’s why Husker Rehab makes a special effort to get involved as sponsors of numerous fundraising events such as St. Jude and Team Jack each year. They are active Teammate Mentors in Beatrice, Fairbury and Nebraska City locations and serve at Clinic with a Heart in Lincoln and participate with the Belmont community by support of the BCC summer program and supporters of Matt Talbot.
In addition to this, they sponsor Rotary groups, youth football, baseball and softball programs. Maintained Honor roll membership status with the Better Business Bureau and Chamber of commerce, Lincoln economic partnership development, LIBA and local high school boosters. Providing athletic training and injury care at School sporting events. Husker Rehab is not just here to help you through your recovery; they’re here for every aspect of your life including making sure your community is as strong as it can be.
At Husker Rehab, physical pain and dysfunction are personal. By listening and taking a holistic approach for evaluation the expert Therapists identify the source of the problem then work on treating the cause of pain and not just the symptoms. They get to know their patients and work hard to help them achieve their goals, back to what they love to do and back out into the community. Caring is the bottom line and it’s reflected in their core values. To learn more about their mission or to schedule an appointment visit huskerrehab.com.
This Thursday, June 20, in conjunction with KFOR Radio, Legacy Retirement Communities have the privilege of shining a light on the unsung heroes in the Lincoln community with the Jerry Joyce Living Legacy Awards and the Caring Heart Award. They were so grateful to be able to honor this year’s award recipients, Zach Schafer, Carla Hiatt and Dr. Bob Bleicher. They hosted a luncheon at Legacy Estates and presented the awards.
The 2024 recipients of the Jerry Joyce Living Legacy Award, Zach Schafer and Carla Hiatt, each received $2,500 for a nonprofits of their choice. Zach donated to his own nonprofit, Band of the Strong. Carla donated $1,500 to Live Well, Go Fish and $1,000 to Tabitha Health Meals on Wheels. Dr. Bob Bleicher was the recipient of the Caring Heart Award and received $1,000, which he donated to Mourning Hope Grief Center.
The Jerry Joyce Living Legacy Awards have been given since 2011, in memory of Jerry Joyce, founder of the Legacy Retirement Communities, to honor those in our Lincoln community who exhibit the same kind of quiet, giving spirit that Jerry had shown to others in his life. Congratulations to all of the Legacy Award winners for 2024, sponsored by Legacy Retirement Communities and KFOR Radio. Legacy Retirement Communities continues to provide Lincoln with award-winning elegance, superior care and countless reasons to live an enriched life. Learn more at LegacyRetirement.com or call at (402) 436-3000.
Sip Nebraska brings together a passionate community of local wine, craft beer, spirits and their fans to celebrate Nebraska’s beverage industry. This year, the fall festival will take place in on Friday, September 27 from 4 to 9 p.m. and on Saturday, September 28 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the Haymarket Park Ballpark!
This event features craft beer, wine and spirit tastings all while listening to live music! This Sip Nebraska festival is the perfect opportunity to explore and enjoy wineries, breweries and distilleries from all across Nebraska. With unlimited tastings of wine, craft beer, hard ciders and spirits, you’re sure to find the perfect drink for you. There’s truly something for everyone!
Enjoy live music, while you sip and shop their curated artisan vendors, take a tasty tour through food truck alley, play lawn games and ride the trolley. Ticket pricing and further details are available at blurevents.com/sip-fall. Register now!
Blur Events is a tailgate and event production company established in 2008. Learn more at blurevents.com.
Sun Valley Lanes & Games is thrilled to announce a new start time for its popular "Weekend Warrior" event. Beginning immediately, Weekend Warrior will start at 9:30 p.m. every Friday and Saturday night, offering guests unlimited Xtreme glow-in-the-dark bowling until midnight for just $16.95 per person.
In addition to the unlimited bowling, Weekend Warrior participants will also enjoy special discounts on two of Sun Valley Lanes & Games’ most exciting attractions. Combat Zone Laser Tag and Lucky Putt Mini Golf will be available for only $4.95 per person per game, providing even more fun and value for guests.
"We listened to our customers and recognized the demand for an earlier start time," said Brian Kleinknecht, Operations Manager of Sun Valley Lanes & Games. "We are excited to make this change and offer a more convenient and enjoyable experience for everyone. Weekend Warrior has been a cornerstone of our entertainment offerings for over a decade, and we believe the new schedule will make it even more popular."
Sun Valley Lanes & Games invites everyone to join in the fun and excitement of Weekend Warrior. For more information or to make bowling reservation, visit their website at sunvalleylanes.com.
Sun Valley Lanes & Games is Lincoln’s premier entertainment destination, offering a wide range of activities including bowling, laser tag, mini golf and more. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to providing exceptional service, Sun Valley Lanes & Games is dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences for guests of all ages.
It’s been a remarkable year for Kingery Construction Co. as we celebrate 100 years. Our ongoing commitment to excellence propels us forward as we eagerly embrace future opportunities and nurture partnerships.
With a focus on the future, we’re primed to embark on new ventures, innovate projects, and further enrich Nebraska’s communities. Our dedication and partnership focus ensures a sustained positive impact for years ahead.
Expect the following when working with Kingery Construction:
• Clear processes and communication with Owners
• Accountability
• Understanding of your vision and expectations
• A 100 year record of reliability
Kingery has the ability to figure the ins and outs of a project at a very early stage in the delivery process. With a “no fear” attitude, we can out-think everyone else. The team approach to problem solving is well developed and has a track record of success. This permits us to offer accurate estimates, offering comprehensive construction solutions and precise estimates. Our knack for developing and maintaining relationships sets us apart, enabling seamless project implementation and strong community involvement.
Waterford Communities
Assisted Living and Memory Care is grateful for all the families that have entrusted them with their loved ones for the past 12 years. Waterford Communities’ leaders and team make it successful in serving the needs of its families and residents. Waterford Communities recognizes that it is truly a privilege to become a part of its residents’ families.
Waterford Communities Assisted Living has three locations to serve the Lincoln community. The communities are named by which the neighborhood they are located: Waterford Williamsburg, Waterford Wilderness Hills and Waterford College View. Finding the right assisted living or memory support community can leave families feeling overwhelmed. Waterford Communities wants to ensure its families do not feel alone. The Waterford Assisted Living and Memory Care Communities will help all its residents and their families find the perfect fit, so family members can stop searching and relax, knowing they have made the right decision. Waterford Communities’ team of professionals is committed to using their talents and strengths to serve the needs of all Waterford residents. For more information on Waterford Assisted Living and Memory Care Communities, visit thewaterford.net, or contact Jura Michael, Administrator, at home@thewaterford.net or (402) 421-8105.
Last weekend Lincoln Federal Savings Bank hosted their 19th Annual MakeA-Wish Golf Tournament! Without hesitation, this will be the largest donation they’ve ever made to Make-A-Wish Nebraska. They will share that final total on Facebook soon!
They couldn't have done this without their golfers, sponsors and supporters. They want to give a huge thank you to Jared Nielsen - Realtor at RE/MAX Concepts, Olsson, NEBCO, Inc., Evans, Lipka and Associates, Inc, FPS GOLD, Pearson's Pumpkin Place, Middle Creek Printing, Big Red Keno East, Zelle Human Resource Solutions, Eagle Printing and Sign, Lincoln Saltdogs, Charter Title & Escrow, Capitol Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc., Forvis Mazars Group, Inspro, Shanahan Brothers Construction, Mid-American Benefits, Dale's Lawn Care, Kinkaider Brewing Lincoln, Arch Mortgage Insurance, Ray Lipsey, Cline Williams Wright Johnson & Oldfather, Ink Alley Screen Printing & Embroidery, UBS, Rosie's Sports Bar & Grill, Sinclair Hille Architects, Brewsky's Food & Spirits, Principal Financial Group, Envelopes Plus, Vacations by Kaylene and Matt Lyman.
Lincoln Federal Savings Bank takes pride in the magnitude and generosity of its employees and they thank everyone for making that possible.
Lincoln Federal solely operates in Nebraska and is highly committed to giving back to the communities that they serve. They seek to provide their customers with personalized service, which in today’s age is frequently lost. Contact them today to experience the Lincoln Federal difference. Learn more at lincolnfed.com.
• Bookkeeping – We can take care of accounts payable and receivable, create invoices, send out statements, write checks and do many other things to take the pressure off you.
• Payroll – The only thing you must do is provide us with your employees’ hours, and we take care of the rest.
• Quickbooks Consulting – We have over 20 years of experience in dealing with various versions of Quickbooks.
Monarch Integrative Care had amazing ribbon cutting! They take a team approach which helps address all aspects of a person’s healing. The event took place right in their building at 620 N. 48th St. on Wednesday, July 31 and featured a small celebration with their team. You can congratulate them on their ceremony through their website at monarchintegrativecare.com.
Monarch Integrative Care is dedicated to restoring the whole being in body, mind and spirit through a variety of modalities. Understanding that you are a spiritual being having a human experience, you often navigate through your lifespan being vulnerable to injury, illness, grief and other forms of suffering. It is through consciousness, selfawareness and self-care that you can find your resilience and a pathway to healing and growth—thriving in the life you were meant for. A team approach helps address all aspects if a person’s healing. Learn more at monarchcounseling-lincoln.com.
Better Business Bureau of the Midwest Plains (BBB) is thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2024 BBB Torch Awards for Ethics and BBB Spark Awards.
"This marks the 27th year we've celebrated outstanding companies dedicated to ethical practices,” remarked Jim Hegarty, President & CEO of BBB Midwest Plains. “We couldn't be prouder of the 2024 winners."
Here are the winners:
• Omaha & Southwest Iowa: Accelerated Diagnostic & Automotive, ACCESSbank, biBerk, by Berkshire Hathaway, CombOver Contracting, Cox Communications, Firstar Fiber Corporation, FNIC, Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska Omaha Service Center, Goodwill Industries, Groundworks, Marriott Customer Engagement Center, McGill Law PC, LLO, Omaha Steaks, Project Harmony, Travel With Barb, Inc., Union Bank & Trust, Uniti Med, Wooden Ways & Olden Days/ Etched Impressions and Yeck's Auto Repair, Inc.
• Lincoln & Greater Nebraska: Bats to Rats Wildlife Control and Prevention, Berry Law, Bizco Technologies, Center for Legal Immigration Assistance, Cobalt Credit Union, Lighthouse, Nemaha Sports Construction and Schrock Innovations, Inc.
• Kansas Plains: Affinity Automotive Services, BB BROTHERS CONTRACTOR and Good Energy Solutions, Inc.
• Kansas City & Western Missouri: Continental Siding Supply, Inc., Integrity Roofing, LLC, Parrish & Sons Construction and Thrasher Foundation Repair.
• South Dakota: Frisbee Plumbing and Heating. One leader in the region was selected for the 2024 Spark Award:
• Lincoln & Greater Nebraska: Kaydee Smith of 86 Bar Staffing Celebration will be held at the 2024 BBB Torch Awards Luncheon, at A View West Shores on Tuesday, September 24, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. Secure your tickets at bbb.org/ omahatorch
Hub Café loves being a part of the vibrant summer scene by cultivating culinary and community-centered events.
Every Friday night, from 5 to 9 p.m., is Pizza & Pints night, featuring a monthly rotating pizza and small-bites menu that’s sure to offer something for every taste. When the weather is nice, Pizza & Pints runs out of the Jayne Snyder Trails Center event space. Pizza & Pints night also features local live music most weeks.
Occurring every Wednesday from May through September (5 to 7 p.m.) is the Hub Farmer’s Market, which invites locals to sell their goods to the public. The Hub Café has a monthly rotating Market Menu of chef-driven, scratch-made dishes that feature fresh ingredients from a variety of the vendors and which serves out on the patio from 5 to 9 p.m. Local musicians play weekly, and the list of scheduled musicians can be found on the Hub Farmers Market Facebook and Instagram.
Hub & Soul—a monthly free concert series now in its sixth year—is the event of the summer and is a collaborative effort between the Lincoln Parks Foundation, the Great Plains Trails Network and other community-focused groups. Each concert takes place on the last Friday night of each month from June through September (5 to 9 p.m.). Each month features opening and main local music acts, special menu items from the Hub Café, food trucks and more around the Union Plaza Amphitheater.
The Hub Café is your go-to spot this summer for food, fun and festivities right in the heart of downtown Lincoln! Learn more at hubcafelincoln.com.
Omaha Fashion Week is lifting the veil and showing off the behind the scenes of the Fall 2024 VERUS Season. This season's designers draw inspiration from the natural world and repurposed materials while exploring themes of community and cultural heritage.
Throughout the week, Omaha Fashion Week will showcase 16 Emerging Designers plus 14 featured designers, all of whom will present their collections during the three nights of the Fall 2024 VERUS Season. Omaha Fashion Week is proud to welcome back the teen campers from Omaha Fashion Camp’s Summer 2024 sessions during its Thursday night showcase, along with the first-ever collection by Develop Kids from Develop Model Management. Finally, Omaha Fashion Week will feature six headlining designers throughout the week, including four of its Golden Shears award winners from previous seasons. Their inspirations manifest through street wear, bridal gowns, eveningwear, avant-garde and wearable art! One can see global influence across the collection’s aesthetics, from Scotland to Spain, Ecuador to Ethiopia, Italy, Japan and London.
Omaha Fashion Week’s runway will see designers of all ages, from teens to those in their 60s. Of these, seven of Omaha Fashion Week’s designers are high school or college students, and they have 21 returning designers and 15 designers who are brand new. This group is from all over the US, including local Nebraskans; neighbors in Iowa, Kansas and Missouri and even more making the trek from California, Colorado, New York and Wisconsin.
Reserve a seat along the runway to meet Omaha Fashion Week on the red carpet from August 22-24!
Hunt Irrigation, Inc. The Water Smart Company installed a threezone, low-volume drip irrigation system with a rain sensor on June 29. This system will apply water on an hourly basis and will use 40% less water to maintain its beautiful landscape compared to a traditional "spray type" irrigation system.
Drip irrigation increases its effectiveness by applying the water at the base of the plant, ensuring that as plants mature, they continue to receive the appropriate amount of water. The automatic rain sensor will ensure that this system will not water after a rain event, saving thousands of gallons of water each season now and into the future.
For more information on drip irrigation or for an irrigation consult to help improve any system's efficiency, contact Hunt Irrigation at (402) 438-8151, or find them on the web at huntirrigation.com or on Facebook (facebook.com/huntirrigationinc).
Talent Plus, Inc., a leading global consulting firm headquartered in Lincoln, was selected by Modern Healthcare as one of the 2024 Best Places to Work in Healthcare.
“With all the economic uncertainty, staffing challenges and folks wanting more flexible work setups, every company has to get clever about how they attract and hold onto talent,” said Dan Peres, President of Modern Healthcare. "Winners of the 2024 Best Places to Work awards really get it. They show us how vital it is to understand what employees want and need…finding the right people is a top priority, and the winners know that keeping their team happy is the key to business success.”
This recognition reflects Talent Plus’ longstanding commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, caring and respect. Its comprehensive benefits empower colleagues to be self-directed in their work-life balance and well-being.
“It’s about layering intention around values, selection, onboarding, investing, empowering and celebrating wins. After implementing new practices (increased transparency, honor vacation days, investment solutions), we’ve learned along the way by listening to colleagues. Being a Best Place to Work is a journey, not a destination. We listen, refine and grow in our culture and what feels rewarding to colleagues,” added Makenzie Rath, Talent Plus President.
Modern Healthcare’s award program identifies and recognizes outstanding employers in the healthcare industry nationwide.
Talent Plus, an internationally recognized global talent consulting firm in over 20 countries, delivers interviews and assessments in 20 plus languages. It uses world-class science to help clients grow high-performing, fully-engaged workplace cultures through talent discovery and development. The results show improved work performance, increased productivity, reduced turnover, strengthened employee engagement and bottom-line results. To learn more, visit talentplus.com.
Lincoln’s newest multi-purpose event space is now open and available for booking!
Located at 8211 Yankee Woods Dr., this charming and intimate 1800 square foot, customizable space was designed with aesthetics and practicality in mind and is designed to serve as the blank canvas for any event!
Initially conceived as a stylish and functional event space in response to a local need, The Confetti Corner’s space offers an all-inclusive service dedicated to making every moment unforgettable.
From showers to milestone birthdays, corporate events or intimate gatherings with friends and loved ones, The Confetti Corner is ready to be your one stop shop to celebrate anything and everything!
Join The Confetti Corner for its Grand Opening “SIP, SHOP & SEE” on Friday, September 6, from 4 to 8 p.m. Participants can expect to enjoy a tour of the venue, complimentary food and drinks and shop local vendors. No one will want to miss it!
To inquire about availability and pricing, or to schedule a tour, contact The Confetti Corner at TheConfettiCorner.com or hello@ theconfetticorner.com.
Merritt Concrete is committed to providing top-tier concrete solutions. Its dedication to quality and innovation is upheld by its highly skilled team, who work tirelessly to deliver comprehensive services from start to finish, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment.
Their advanced Volumetric Mixing Trucks are at the heart of Merritt Concrete’s operation, ensuring precise and efficient on-site concrete mixing. This cutting-edge technology guarantees the highest quality concrete tailored to each project's specific requirements.
Additionally, their Concrete Power Buggies streamline the transportation and placement of concrete, enhancing productivity and minimizing manual labor. Paired with their experienced concrete flatwork finishing team, Merritt Concrete delivers impeccable results for every project, large or small.
"Our goal is to provide Lincoln with unmatched concrete services," said Terry Howell, General Manager at Merritt Concrete. "With our innovative equipment and skilled team, we ensure every project is completed to the highest standards."
For more information about Merritt Concrete and its services, please visit merrittlincoln.com or contact Terry Howell at (402) 435-3213 or thowell@merrittlincoln.com.
Merritt Concrete is a leading provider of high-quality concrete solutions in Lincoln. Specializing in start-to-finish concrete services, the company is dedicated to delivering exceptional results through innovative technology and expert craftsmanship.
Ashley Freese & Associates, Inc. is moving from 70th and A St. Their new location will be located at 8200 Cody Dr. STE H, here in Lincoln effective on July 1 with a office warming party being held on the same day. This new location is perfect for serving their clients. You can now stop by and say hi! Check out their new offices now.
Ashley Freese & Associates, Inc. is here to serve. Their unique backgrounds, training and experience have prepared them well to help meet everyone’s insurance needs. Additionally, as residents of the community, they understand how important it is to be there for you, as trusted friends and neighbors. Together, they are building strong partnerships that help everyone succeed. Insure your dreams with American Family Insurance at amfam.com. Learn more about Ashley Freese & Associates, Inc. at AmFamAshleyFreese.com. To get a quote, you can visit their new location or contact them at Afreese@ amfam.com or give them a call at (402) 441-9227.
Matt and Mandy Garner are very excited about the opportunity to own and operate Pinnacle Realty Group. It is their goal to carry on the business model of a customer servicedriven brokerage in Lincoln and the surrounding areas. They look forward to working with everyone and sharing their love for real estate.
Their brokerage is geared toward client satisfaction and top-notch service. They strive to provide exceptional service in all areas of real estate, including residential and commercial properties.
"As a broker, my mission is to support our agents at Pinnacle Realty Group by helping them navigate any hurdles that arise during transactions and ensuring compliance with contracts,” says Broker Matt Garner. "I believe it is crucial to promote our agents and guide them in managing their real estate businesses effectively. Inspired by the exceptional support and mentorship I received from my broker, Bob Peterson, I strive to continue his legacy by providing the same level of support to our agents. Additionally, I aim to foster an environment where agents can enjoy a happy and balanced life, achieving maximum quality of life while delivering exceptional customer service. At Pinnacle Realty Group, we are dedicated to offering great agents who deliver excellent customer service and excel in their areas of expertise, whether in residential, commercial or investment real estate."
Matt and Mandy have embarked on a journey together to achieve success in the real estate industry. Pinnacle Realty Group's focus on residential and commercial real estate across the state of Nebraska is driven by their passion for doing what they love and providing consumers with exceptional customer service. Feel free to reach out at Matt.Garner@prglincoln.com.
Valerie Heedum CARING FRIENDS IN-HOME CARE
Meet Valerie Heedum, the Business Development Director at Caring Friends In-Home Care
Tell us a little about your business. - Caring Friends is a non-medical in home care provider covering 43 counties in Nebraska. We provide companion care for individuals ranging from pediatric to seniors.
How did you get started in the business? - I have worked in senior health for over 20 years. I have known the owner for many years and love connecting with providers and clients in the community. Senior Health is important and I feel great when I can help connect people to meet a need.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Finding a role where I can make a real impact matters to me. Working with the team at Caring Friends has offered me that opportunity.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? - A few years back I was recognized as business partner of the year by the Nebraska Health Care Association. I felt humbled to be acknowledged by my peers who I respect so much.
Tell us a little about your family. - I am married to Jeff who also works in Senior Health. We have a blended family and together we have three kids, Alex, Ellie and Avery. We have his and hers dogs, Judge and Chance.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
- Being a mom has been one of the most rewarding and meaningful things to me. I am now close to being an empty nester and that is harder than I thought it would be. I miss having them home but am proud of them for their independence.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I am learning Pickleball and try to play a little golf too.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I love learning. I listen to podcasts and audible books a lot and recently signed up to Master Class App too. I tend to be a YouTube it kind of person too and try to repair things at home too.
Who inspires you? - This may be cliché, but Taylor Swift is a female role model I am rooting for. Her kindness, vulnerability and overall success are impressive!
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - I try to live my life by walking the walk. I never want to over promise and under deliver.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Authentic.
If you had a theme song, what would it be? - "Unstoppable" by Sia.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - I love connecting with seniors. I don’t get to do that everyday but have a soft spot for them and it brings me joy when I get to do that.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Dolly’s Legacy is where I got my rescue dog Chance. I love advocating for adopting pets. Teammates program really was a lovely experience for my daughter Ellie and her Team Mate Betsy.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - val.heedum@caringfriends.com | (402) 207-1050
Jason Willet
Meet Jason Willet, Owner of Willet Construction Remodeling Specialists.
Tell us a little about your business. - Rick & Marcia Willet started Willet Construction in 1995 with three goals: Top-quality craftsmanship & top-quality service, Caring for customers and their home and On-time project calendars. We are a full-service, design/ build remodeling company. This means that homeowners only need to hire one company to design, develop and construct their interior or exterior home remodel. We also have a design center where customers meet with our designers to see floor plans, 3D renderings, displays and product samples. Our team’s commitment to customer satisfaction is superb and proven by having over 500 repeat customers in the last decade.
How did you get started in the business? - After I graduated high school, I told my dad, “I’ll never come back to work in the company.” So, I went to study accounting in college and play baseball. After college, I made a list of characteristics for a company that I would want to work for. Reflecting on the list, it hit me that the best fit was Willet Construction. I went back to try it out and have loved it ever since.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The challenge of transitioning ownership of a business from my dad, Rick. It seems simple, but only 30% of family businesses survive transitioning to the next generation. There are so many parts to have a successful ownership transition. Rick and I put together a seven-year transition plan in place, which lays out the steps year by year of what we need to accomplish. There were many challenges and difficult times, but planning this out over many years has greatly increased our chances for success. We are still working through our plan (Rick still works full-time), but weare able to see the results of a thorough transition plan.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
- Joining into ownership with Willet Construction. My parents created a company with an exceptional reputation of customer service. It has been a joy learning from that and expanding. It has been a joy being able to grow the company while building upon the foundation of what has made Willet Construction
Tell us a little about your family. - My wife, Heather, and I are celebrating our 10-year anniversary this year. We have four kids, two boys and two girls. All of us love to be active outdoors with playing sports, hunting, fishing or camping.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Break the rules for the right reasons” – this is a perfect explanation of why I love working in a small business. There is risk and reward in everything we do, but you can decide to break the rules to do the best thing for the customer.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Heather and I are very involved at Indian Hills Community Church serving in ministries. I serve as one of the room leaders of our Boys Of Faith program for 1st-6th grade boys during our Sunday evening service. Heather serves in the orchestra and co-directs the girls’ choir for girls in 4th-12th grade. We also host an in-home bible study during the week.
What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Ginger Grill – our family loves to go here to watch the grill and eat good food.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - jason@willetconstruction.com | willetconstruction.com
Cory Schlisner UNDERFOOT FLOORING SOLUTIONS
Meet Cory Schlisner, Co-Owner of Underfoot Flooring
Tell us a little about your business. - Underfoot is a commercial and residential floor covering business. Started by Mark and Kayla Dickenson almost 20 years ago. Purchased by my wife, Ela, and I in 2021
How did you get started in the business? - I am a generational tradesman in the floor covering installation industry. Trained by my father and brother.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The switch from tradesman to entrepreneur.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? - The switch from tradesman to entrepreneur.
Tell us a little about your family. - Ela and I are a merged family of 10 and four grandkids. Our kids are all adults and off on their own paths. We love to travel as a family at least once a year. It gives the family a chance to bound as it continues to grow.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - The days when my children were born and the day I met Ela.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Be with my family! Who inspires you? - My mom! Shelia Schilsner/Hendrix.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - "You have to fight for your right to party" by Beatise Boys Be Kind.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Loyal.
If you had a theme song, what would it be? - "Magic Carpet Ride" by Stepenwolf.
If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Suspend time. What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Making music.
Which talent would you most like to have? - Time management.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Sound engineer.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Loaves & Fishes, Karen Lamb is a god send to our community.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?My favorite book is On the Campaign Trail with Richard Nixon by Hunter S. Thompson. The last book I read was They Ask You Answer by Marcus Sheridan.
What is your favorite movie? - The Big Lebowski.
What is your favorite TV show? - Whatever my wife is watching. What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Yia Yia's.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Bill Grahm.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Call our office at (402) 483-1502.
Jayda Lyon STRICTLY BUSINESS
Meet Jayda Lyon, Art Director at Strictly Business.
Tell us a little about your business. - Strictly Business is a business magazine that highlights news, businesses and the community of Lincoln and the surrounding areas.
How did you get started in the business? - I initially started out my career as a graphic design intern for a FinTech. When I graduated school in December 2024 I found Strictly Business and was so excited to elevate my skills in a different industry.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The biggest challenge I’ve faced professionally would have to be finishing school. As an out of state, double major, transfer student, I faced a lot of adversity in finding my path. Luckily it all led me to a place where I can continue to grow and learn every day.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
- Holding the position of Art Director is very important to me. I get to create something every day, learn new things, communicate with clients and more. This sense of responsibility and accountability is crucial to my motivation.
Tell us a little about your family. - I have the craziest, most lovable Aussie Blue Heeler, Mylo, and the sweetest, wildest orange cat named Otis.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - The pandemic really changed my life, as well as the lives of so many others. It was a turning point for me because it marked the change from childhood to adulthood. I had to move home during quarantine and after I left for school the next year, I never lived at home again.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love to take care of house plants, so on my days off I can be found on my front porch repotting and enjoying the company of my pets.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I used to live in Alaska. Who inspires you? - My mother. She is my hero and the strongest person I know.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Kind.
If you had a theme song, what would it be? - "Mr. Peanut Butter’s House" from BoJack Horseman.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - I get to utilize many talents in my current role; however, I do love to draw and would love to exercise that skill more in my life. Which talent would you most like to have? - I wish I could sing; I am embarrassingly tone-deaf.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I love what I do; however, I’d love to be a content creator or YouTuber. I love to record and edit videos, whether it’s a vlog, music video or just sitting down talking.
What is your favorite movie? - Perks of Being a Wallflower. What is your favorite TV show? - Community. What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Bahnwich If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - jayda@strictlybusinessomaha.com| jaydalyon.com| strictlybusinessomaha.com
Allan Christensen
LUXURY LANDSCAPE
Meet Allan Christensen, Office Manager at Luxury Landscape
Tell us a little about your business. - We are a landscape design and installation company in Lincoln. How did you get started in the business? - I had been in corporate America for a while and grown tired of all the things that come with it; I was looking for a new challenge.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?Learning the world of landscaping has been a challenge since starting here, but it’s been integral to being a better support to Ken and Jackie and the customers.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Going back to school to get my degree was important to me professionally and personally.
Tell us a little about your family. - My wife, Kristin, and I have been married for 10 years. We have three boys, Aksel (6), Soren (4) and Callum (2).
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - The day we found out Kristin was pregnant with Aksel. We had already moved out of our old apartment and were preparing to move to Nashville as Kristin had been accepted to the master’s program at Vanderbilt. We decided to stay in Lincoln and make our family here. It was a tough decision then but the right decision.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Hang out with my family. We hardly have a “day off,” as there’s always something going on. Evenings on the back deck with the boys running through the sprinkler and splash pad are hard to beat.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I was once arrested and taken to jail for overdue library materials. Always return your library books! Who inspires you? - My wife Kristin is a daily inspiration. This past year she has been running a campaign for state office, teaching fulltime, finished up her graduate degree at UNL and was an amazing mom and wife–though, she is an amazing mom and wife all the time.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - I don’t know about advice, but the best guide to my life has been observing my father. How he carries himself as a man, a father and a husband has been something I try to model myself after.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Authentic.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Sports Journalism. It’s my first love and what I got my degree in.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Food Fort is a nonprofit organization that sprang up from our church that has done amazing things all over the city.
What is your favorite movie? - Probably No Country for Old Men and several baseball movies, like Bull Durham, A League of Their Own, Major League and The Natural.
What is your favorite TV show? - The Wire and Parks and Rec.
What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Oh, so many good ones, Venue, Green Gateaux, Muchachos and Bison Witches. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
- You can always call me at the office at (402) 440-7721 or email me at allan@luxurylandscape-llc.com.
Dylyn Fry SERVICEMASTER PBM OF LINCOLN
Meet Dylyn Fry, Office Manager and Day Operation Manger at ServiceMaster PBM of Lincoln
Tell us a little about your business. - Our business offers top of the line janitorial services to professional office buildings. Our services stand out from other companies because we go above and beyond to meet our customers’ needs immediately. Another important aspect of our business is that we take our mission statement very seriously and always conduct business honestly.
How did you get started in the business? - I’ve been in management my entire career. All the wonderful experiences that have taught me to be a great leader brought me to ServiceMaster. When I began looking for a new career I was hoping to find a family atmosphere with a comfortable working environment. I noticed that ServiceMaster was locally owned and operated, which was valuable to me. They were seeking a strong leader for their office but had previously been struggling to find the right personality for the job. Jon and Angela took a chance on me, I’ve been here learning ever since!
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - My biggest professional challenge has actually been directly related to my personal life. I was emancipated at a really young age and living on my own while working through high school. During my early years of management, I worked constantly to provide for myself because I did not have any financial assistance from my parents or family. Every previous job I’ve worked has had a very demanding schedule. Almost all positions had me working 70 plus hours per week including being on call constantly and working most weekends. I had my first baby in 2020. Due to COVID-19, I was working from home and happened to be blessed with the opportunity to spend a lot of time with my baby. When it was time to go back to work it was really hard for me because my son had always been with me. The demanding schedule that I once did with ease now had become a burden. I couldn’t complete most of the tasks that I had previously as well as being unable to handle it emotionally. In a professional environment I am very much a perfectionist and when I feel unable to complete my tasks it sits in my head all day. Eventually, I decided to change careers because I needed to find a family and work life balance. This was my biggest professional challenge because I had to admit that I was no longer capable of my previous duties. I had to pick between my family and my job when both were very important to me. I have surpassed that time in my life, I am much happier for making the decision that I did.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I have a hard time picking my most important professional achievements because I feel all of them have been vital steppingstones to my current position. However, the most important achievement to me as a person has been my consistent ability to move up within leadership in every role, I’ve ever been in. The fact that every position I have worked has led to another promotion within each company I have worked for makes me very proud. It makes me feel as if the record shows that I can and I will surpass all expectations that a company has of me. The very special part about this achievement is that it doesn’t just apply to one place or specific job that I’ve had. It is something that I can take with me forever.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - The best way to spend any day off for me is playing in the water! I love doing anything at the lake or the pool with my kids. We go kayaking, boating or even just floating to make the most of our time. Watching my kids build sandcastles from the water is also pretty cool!
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? officemanager@smpbm.com | (402) 476-2194
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Depend on our compassionate and experienced staff to provide customized care to meet your needs. Our cost effective services and flexible payment options work in conjuction with all your existing home health or hospice services.
The Residence at Gramercy is an independent and assisted living community that hosts a welcoming environment, where residents can meet wellness and social goals through positive interaction with staff and peers. With daily activities, numerous amenities and quality care families can rest assured their loved ones have found the right home. The Residence at Gramercy creates a culture that is rooted in our core values: Character, Competency, Stewardship and Servanthood. Our purpose is to help seniors thrive in community, and this is made possible by the character, competency and care that our team members exemplify every day. Through thoughtful stewardship and hearts led toward servanthood, they act with love to create a more caring world and truly take care of one another.
Jeffrey Harvey Executive Director
A move to Assisted Living at our community provides the opportunity to explore a new way of life; one that offers new beginnings of all kids—engaging new friendships and enriching activities built around small group environment. We’re here to make the transition from home to our community as easy and stress-free as possible. The Residence at Gramercy offers an intimate setting with charming landscaped areas and common spaces that are perfect for friendly visits or playing games. We invite your loved one to experience the peace of mind and worryfree lifestyle that our community provides. Our 24-hour Personal Care Staff is committed to serving the needs of our Residents. That’s our privilege and delight!
At The Residence at Gramercy, we focus on delivering excellence in all we do to help seniors thrive in the community. We help individuals and their family find a home in some of the most stressful circumstances. Change and moves are scary and emotional, but our community is here with open arms for those who cross the threshold. Ensuring residents feel loved in this stage of life is a privilege and all of the staff is thankful to be part of each and every story.
Learn more at theresidenceatgramercy.com.
Chris Linhart, Senior Vice President, began her career at City Bank & Trust in 1997 and has 25 plus years of community banking, regulatory compliance and legal experience. Chris is a loan officer at the Crete location for agricultural, consumer and commercial loans and oversees the bank’s compliance and IT programs. Chris completed the NBA Agricultural Lending School and the NBA School of Lending Principles and holds a degree as a Legal Assistant. With her promotion, Chris will continue to provide support for all areas of compliance and work with customers to help them with their lending needs.
Cynthia Chavarria, Vice President, is a University of Nebraska at Kearney graduate with a bachelor’s degree in finance and has 10 plus years of experience in banking and commercial lending. Cynthia will continue to assist clients with all their commercial and real estate lending needs.
City Bank & Trust’s mission is to give its employees the tools to guide customers through all their banking needs, whether one is a long-time business customer or is just starting out. No matter the circumstances, City Bank & Trust is committed to giving outstanding customer services to help all clients achieve their financial goals.
City Bank & Trust is a full-service bank that recognizes the importance of personal relationships, so it remains small enough to give each of its clients the attention they deserve while still providing comprehensive banking services such as free personal checking, online banking and commercial loans to help those wishing to purchase a new home!
To see City Bank & Trust’s locations, hours, services or to contact the team, visit citybankandtrust.com.
Nebraska LTC Pharmacy is a local pharmacy that specializes in compliance and adherence. They offer a variety of packaging options along with free medication delivery. Their unique set up, and their attention to detail along with top notch customer service sets them far apart from the big box chain pharmacies.
They recently added a new team member! They are excited to have Megan McKay on the team! Megan graduated from University of Nebraska Medicine College of Pharmacy in May of 2024. Megan earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree, and graduated with distinction.
They would love for you to either call or stop in to meet Megan! You can reach Nebraska LTC Pharmacy at (402) 328-0231 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Nebraska LTC Pharmacy truly is a concierge pharmacy. Their goal is always to provide individualized patient care that increases safety and prolongs patients’ independence. You can avoid the use of multiple drugs to treat a single condition and increase communication among the healthcare professionals. To learn more about what they offer visit neltcpharmacy.com.
Image Inflators is thrilled to announce that Gentri Welsh has joined the team as their new Business Development Manager! With a wealth of experience in marketing communications and sales outreach, Gentri is set to drive revenue growth through effective marketing strategies and sales initiatives.
Gentri comes to Image Inflators with several years of experience in creative advertising and business marketing. Prior to joining, Gentri held the position of Account Executive at iHeartMedia, where she was instrumental in driving sales from new clientele, and creating unique initiatives to foster relationships with business owners throughout her community.
In her new role at Image Inflators, Gentri will be responsible for identifying new business opportunities, while building and maintaining relationships with clients to better understand their individual growth needs.
Gentri is passionate about helping business owners succeed, and is eager to bring this enthusiasm to the team. She aims to bring more visibility to businesses throughout the Midwest and beyond. Help welcome her through her email at gentri@imageinflators.com.
Image Inflators is a large format print and display company that provides flags, banners, signs, displays and apparel. Through their dedication to excellence and integrity, they strive to glorify God in all that they do, ensuring our work not only meets but exceeds the highest standards of quality and service. Image Inflators will make you happy, or they’ll make it right.
Visit their website at imageinflators.com or call them for more information at (402) 499-2379.
The Residence at Gramercy is pleased to announce the promotion of Donna Suttles from Lead Receptionist to Business Office Manager. Donna, who joined The Residence at Gramercy community in 2022, brings with her a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to serving residents with dedication and warmth.
In her previous role as Lead Receptionist, Donna was known for her exceptional friendliness, strong work ethic and unwavering passion for enhancing resident experiences. Her infectious smile and genuine care for everyone with whom she interacts have made her a beloved member of The Residence at Gramercy community.
"Donna has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities and a genuine love for our residents," said Jordyn Ready, Director of Sales and Marketing at The Residence at Gramercy. "We are thrilled to have her join our leadership team, where her skills and dedication will undoubtedly contribute to our continued success in providing exceptional care and service."
Donna's promotion underscores The Residence at Gramercy's commitment to fostering growth and recognizing talent within its team. Her transition to Business Office Manager is a testament to her proven abilities and dedication to excellence.
For more information on The Residence at Gramercy, visit theresidenceatgramercy.com.
Western National Bank is proud to announce the two-year anniversary of Todd Calfee as a valued member of the team. Since joining the bank in 2022, Todd has made significant contributions to the organization, playing a crucial role in enhancing the community engagement and fostering strong customer relationships.
As a Community Relations/Marketing Mentor, Todd has demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise, driving growth and relationships within the bank. His dedication to sharing his knowledge and promoting the Western National Bank message throughout their 11 communities has not only benefited the customers, but also strengthened the bank’s reputation in the community.
“I am honored to be a part of the Western National Bank family and grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to grow professionally,” said Todd Calfee. “The past two years have been incredibly rewarding, and I am excited to continue working with our talented team to achieve even greater success in the future.”
Western National Bank remains committed to providing exceptional banking services to the communities, and they are confident that with Todd’s continued leadership and relationship building skills, they will continue to thrive and meet the evolving needs of our customers and continue to expand throughout southeast Nebraska and Kansas. To learn more, visit mywnb.com.
Meet Alysha Donahoo, a new McGill Law Paralegal! During the COVID-19 pandemic, Alysha purused an associate’s degree in paralegal studies at Metropolitan Community College (MCC) and graduated in February 2024. Before this, Alysha worked for over 12 years as a talented cosmetologist and Manager at Garbo’s in Oakview Mall.
Alysha’s dedication, kindness and hardworking nature have been evident from day one. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her three daughters, ages 14, nine and seven. Together, they love camping and fishing at Harlan Lake.
With an unwavering commitment to excellence and an insatiable curiosity, Alysha embodies resilience and possibility in everything she does! McGill Law is thrilled to have her on their team. You can help them welcome Alysha by visiting their website mcgilllawyers. com or email them at info@mcgilllawyers.com.
McGill Law specializes in helping women through family issues like divorce, separation and child custody. They fully understand the stress and difficulty women often face when considering a legal process that involved their family. McGill Law is the female focused firm and they are dedicated to guiding you through your legal process with compassion, integrity and respect. Learn more at mcgilllawyers.com.
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Visiting Angels proudly presents the “Caregiver of the Moment” award to Meghan Gallagher. Meghan has not only impressed her clients—who have called in to talk about how much they love her—but her fellow caregivers as well.
"It's not very often that a team member calls the office to give kudos to a fellow angel, but this has happened several times regarding the work Meghan is doing," said Natalie Leon, owner of Visiting Angels Lincoln. "Congratulations, Meghan! We are thrilled to have you on our team."
Visiting Angels “Caregiver of the Moment” is a special award given to an outstanding caregiver as recognized by one more of the following: clients and staff members. This award is not given lightly, but as the team receives positive feedback from its constituents.
At Visiting Angels, comprehensive home care is customized for seniors based on their individual needs and preferences. Their dedicated and reliable caregivers have helped thousands of older adults live happily and safely in the comforts of home while providing their families with peace of mind. If you would like to learn more about Visiting Angels, call (402) 735-0999 or visit visitingangels.com.
Sawyer Collingsworth, Assistant Vice President, is a Lincoln native and Union College business graduate, bringing five years of expertise in banking and financial services to his new role as Loan Officer at City Bank & Trust. With a background as a credit analyst, Sawyer focuses on servicing commercial clients, developing new relationships and is currently pursuing advanced education through the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado. His dedication to local banking reflects a commitment to enhancing lending services for the local Lincoln community.
Karen Hooper, Senior Vice President, has been working in the financial industry since 1990 with 25 years at City Bank & Trust. Karen has been an important part of City Bank & Trust’s growth in both business development and relationship management in the Lincoln market. “I look forward to continuing the extraordinary service to City Bank customers,” said Hooper. Karen will also be involved in employee development and bank benefits as part of her new responsibilities.
City Bank & Trust’s mission is to give its employees the tools to guide customers through all their banking needs, whether one is a long-time business customer or is just starting out. No matter the circumstances, City Bank & Trust is committed to giving outstanding customer services to help all clients achieve their financial goals.
City Bank & Trust is a full-service bank that recognizes the importance of personal relationships, so it remains small enough to give each of its clients the attention they deserve while still providing comprehensive banking services such as free personal checking, online banking and commercial loans to help those wishing to purchase a new home!
To see City Bank & Trust’s locations, hours, services or to contact the team, visit citybankandtrust.com.
SEPTEMBER 4
SEPTEMBER 11
SEPTEMBER 18 Andy Leftwich with The Shucks Brothers
INNOVATION CAMPUS PLAZA
City Bank & Trust has added another valuable asset to its team and is delighted to announce the addition of Lisa Krzycki. Krzycki is excited to step into her new role as Mortgage Loan Originator and is committed to providing the best mortgage experience possible.
“At City Bank & Trust, I’m backed by a skilled team of mortgage professionals who help make the home loan process as smooth and stressfree as possible,” says Krzycki. “In addition to delivering the best mortgage products, terms and expertise available, I’m now equipped with more resources to help close more deals!”
To contact Lisa Krzycki, Mortgage Loan Originator, call (402) 420-3170.
City Bank & Trust was established in Crete in 1910 and has since become a progressive leader and key member of the community. City Bank & Trust’s mission is to give its employees the tools to guide customers through all their banking needs, whether one is a long-time business customer or is just starting out. No matter the circumstances, City Bank & Trust is committed to giving outstanding customer services to help all clients achieve their financial goals.
City Bank & Trust is a full-service bank that recognizes the importance of personal relationships, so it remains small enough to give each of its clients the attention they deserve while still providing comprehensive banking services such as free personal checking, online banking and commercial loans to help those wishing to purchase a new home!
To see City Bank & Trust’s locations, hours, services or to contact the team, visit citybankandtrust.com.
Keith Miller, MD, PhD, FACC, Cardiologist, Bryan Heart has been selected to serve on American Heart Association’s Midwest Region Board of Directors.
“It’s an exciting time to be a part of this organization as it heads into its second century of providing health and hope for everyone everywhere,” said Dr. Miller. “In the first 100 years, the American Heart Association has helped save and improve lives, launched scientific discovery and advocated for healthy public policies in communities across the nation. We’re not done yet, and I am honored to help lead the efforts. I look forward to all we will accomplish in the months and years ahead.”
During the upcoming year, Dr. Miller will play an instrumental role in advancing health equity and guiding efforts to reduce the incidences of heart disease and stroke in the Midwest.
As a member of the Midwest Board of Directors, Dr. Miller will help oversee the American Heart Association’s efforts in a 13-state region. Together, the regional volunteer leadership board will guide the Association to drive breakthroughs in science and technology, change systems and policies, address disparities and transform health care and the health of communities nationwide and around the world.
The American Heart Association has been around for 100 years. It’s the largest and oldest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. They are committed to protecting the hearts you love. Together, they are saving lives in your community and across the nation. Connect with them on their website heart.org, or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
Christian Record Services, Inc. is pleased to announce the six collegiate recipients of the Anne Lowe Scholarship for the 2024-25 school year. “Our scholarship committee was impressed with each of our applicants this year and we are thrilled to award scholarships to six outstanding individuals,” said Diane Thurber, president of the 125-year-old organization. “Through the ongoing generosity of donors, we are able to support the education of each of the selected recipients of the Anne Lowe Scholarship.” The following students were selected for the scholarship: Kwaku Darko, Meghan Downing, Lina Fitzhugh, Olivia Luckhaupt, Joshua Olukanni and Charli Strawn.
The Anne Lowe Scholarship is awarded to college students based on academic achievement, citizenship supported through reference letters and verification of blindness. The scholarship is distributed in two parts during the school year. Tom Lowe established the scholarship in 1989 in the memory of his wife Anne, who loved education and the mission of Christian Record Services.
For more information on each of these outstanding students, please visit christianrecord.org/member-services/scholarship.
Christian Record Services, Inc. is an international ministry to people who are blind. The nonprofit was founded in 1899 and is headquartered in Lincoln. To learn more, visit ChristianRecord.org, call (402) 488-0981 or connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn (@CRSBfriends).
The Tobacco Prevention & Education program with the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department had the opportunity to host a summer intern this year to focus on a campaign for proper vape device disposal. Elise St. Clair was placed in the department by The Foundry, a co-working space in Lincoln that connects University of NebraskaLincoln (UNL) honors students with nonprofits, mission-driven businesses and government organizations for internships. As a rising sophomore at UNL, Elise is double majoring in Journalism and Broadcasting and minoring in Environmental Studies. This summer, she balances four classes and two other jobs and in her limited free time, enjoys rock climbing and playing the cello and piano.
A highlight of her internship has been developing educational materials for schools. Despite not being a graphic design expert, Elise loves creative expression and seizes opportunities to expand her skills. She also stepped out of her comfort zone to survey strangers at an outreach event, a task made memorable when the first person she approached barked at her. Elise hopes to work for an environmental organization as an editor after graduation, combining her passions for written language and the environment. Above all else, she wants to know that her work is making a difference. Elise believes her internship experience with the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department has been a step toward that goal, allowing her to contribute meaningfully to her community. 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, go to tobaccofreelancastercounty.com.
• Complimentary drinks and snacks.
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• Grab-and-go menu.
Meg Damme has been with Fresh Start since 2005, holding diverse roles over the years.
Appointed associate director in July, she collaborates closely with Executive Director Monica Zinke to craft strategies, establish goals and ensure targets are achieved. While overseeing the program department, Meg Damme also takes on mentoring, coaching and direct service responsibilities. In the new role, she will have a larger role in program development, staffing, strategic planning and facility operations.
Meg Damme is committed to ongoing professional growth, and finding educational opportunities for the team even with a limited training budget. Meg's dedication to aiding others is evident in her every action. Meg Damme looks forward to being even more involved with growing Fresh Start services and assisting more women with their path out of homelessness and to healthier, more empowered lives.
Meg Damme shared “It has been such an honor and privilege to have the opportunity to walk alongside so many amazing women on their journey to a better life. To help them see their strengths and support them as they take the risks involved in building the foundation for their future. I am blessed to have had several incredible staff members and interns along the way, not to mention volunteers who have helped shape the whole program into what it is today.”
Beyond her role at Fresh Start, she contributes to the Governor’s Joint Committee on Mental Health and Substance Abuse, the EFSP Board and the Family and Consumer Advisory Board. Her volunteer efforts extend to projects supporting victims of domestic violence, and she is active in the recovery community.
Known for her kindness and empathy, Meg consistently sees the best in people. Her sincerity and enthusiasm create a safe space where others feel comfortable seeking guidance without hesitation. Fresh Start owes much of its success to Meg's invaluable contributions. Executive Director Monica Zinke shared “We are so fortunate to have Meg on our team. She is highly skilled and knows how to provide a balance of empathy, support and accountability. She is constantly looking for additional ways to support our participants and staff and this new role will empower her to do more to enhance our program. She is an inspiration to many.”
Fresh Start is a residential program for women experiencing homelessness. Participants may live in the home for up to one year, during which time they develop an individualized goal plan and actively work towards goals related to employment, housing and health, among others.
To contact Fresh Start to learn more about our services, request a speaker or explore other ways to get involved, email lacreshab@ freshstarthome.org or call (402) 475-7777. For more information about Fresh Start services, please visit FreshStartHome.org or find them on Facebook.
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.
Walter’s Painting Inc. is very excited to announce their new hires, Kesha, Greg, Aaron, Parker, Acklin and Aron to their dedicated team. The more the merrier and the extra help Walter’s Painting Inc. provide professional painting for the exterior of any Lincoln business at any time of the new including new construction, apartment complexes, condos and commercial and industrial complexes. These new painters join a team of skilled and qualified painters who have years of experience. Help Walter’s Painting Inc. welcome them!
When hiring Walter’s Painting Inc. for your Lincoln area painting and special coatings application needs, you can rest assured that any item not to be painted will be protected at al times. Their professional painters will work diligently to ensure the quality of their work. They offer full service painting, staining and special coatings application, including power washing. If you have a project in mind, do not hesitate to give them a call today! Their customers know they can count on them to deliver first rate work. Contact them at (402) 730-1781 or schedule an appointment at walterspaintinginc.com.
The Lincoln Council for International Visitors (LCIV) is excited to announce the hiring of their inaugural Executive Director, Crystal Bock Thiessen. LCIV is a council affiliate of Global Ties U.S. and works closely with the U.S. Department of State's International Visitor Leadership Program to welcome and connect emerging leaders from countries across the world with Nebraska community members.
Originating in 1966 as the Mayor's Committee for International Friendship, LCIV's mission continues to promote global understanding through citizen diplomacy in Lincoln by fostering community receptions, Dinner Diplomat opportunities and cultural and professional opportunities for visiting global leaders.
Bock Thiessen has been a volunteer with LCIV since 2014, serving as board vice president (2014-2017) and president (2017-2020). As an English language educator, she brings valuable experience to this position, including experience in the power of citizen diplomacy through education, travel and relationship-building. Bock Thiessen lived and taught in Sapporo, Japan for three years (2008-2011) and in Lugansk, Ukraine for one (2011-2012) as an English Language Fellow in conjunction with Georgetown University and the U.S. Department of State. She has worked as a U.S. Department of State English Language Specialist since 2013 on multiple teacher training assignments in Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Moldova, Georgia, Belarus, Russia, Pakistan and Vietnam and has had the opportunity to travel to 53 countries and 32 U.S. states.
In addition to Bock Thiessen’s new endeavor as the LCIV Executive Director, she will continue her roles as an English language educator at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and co-owner of the Hub Cafe with her husband, Jacob.
For more information on the Lincoln Council for International Visitors, visit lciv.org.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands (BBBSM) is proud to celebrate the third anniversary of Recruitment and Events Coordinator, Kyle Bishop, and the seventh anniversary of Program Director, Laura Matthias. Kyle is responsible for managing their agency’s recruitment strategy and event preparations. Laura works with all the program staff to ensure they adhere to the Big Borthers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) standards of practice and have efficient procedures that ensure child safety and youth protection.
Kyle was first drawn to Big Brothers Big Sisters during his senior year at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Now, three years later, he’s still helping out in any way he can, directly improving the lives of youth and families in Lincoln. Laura originally worked at Big Brothers, Big Sisters in Hastings and loved the work and the mission of mentoring. An opportunity arose with the Lincoln agency where she’s served ever since.
Big Brothers Big Sisters thank Laura and Kyle for their time and dedication to the organization's mission and hopes this is the start of many more years to come.
For 50 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters has operated under the belief that inherent in every child is the ability to succeed and thrive in life. As an affiliate of the nation’s largest donor-and-support mentoring network, they make meaningful matches between adult volunteers and children, ages seven through 16. They develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people. Learn more at bbbslincoln.org.
TAC Payroll Solutions LLC is elated to announce Kenneh Freeman as the newest addition to the team. Kenneh will serve as a part-time employee and assist with TAC Payroll’s accounting services.
“The TAC Payroll Solutions team is thrilled to welcome Kenneh to the office and accounting industry!” said TAC Payroll Solutions Owner and Manager Terry Clark. “We are excited to share our knowledge and learn from Kenneh’s experiences and unique perspective.”
TAC Payroll Solutions LLC has over 20 years of experience, evolving alongside contemporary software technologies, so its clients can feel confident that their business and financial needs are in the best hands. When one doesn’t have to stress about managing money, one has so much more time to tend to the other crucial business tasks. For this reason, TAC Payroll’s experienced and dedicated accountants are there to help, offering multi-state services.
TAC Payroll Solutions LLC is a local, woman-owned business serving Lincoln and the surrounding areas. TAC Payroll’s services include comprehensive payroll services; notary, bookkeeping and sales tax reporting; 1099s and more.
“Our customers can expect amazing, personalized customer service,” assures Clark. “Our skilled team will handle every step of your payroll and bookkeeping needs, so you can be guaranteed a reliable business workflow. We are here to make your life easier!”
To learn more about how the TAC Payroll Solutions team operates, get in touch with them today at (531) 249-5800 or info@tacpayrollsolutions. com.
Filament Essential Services is thrilled to announce the appointment of Randy Hawthorne as their new Director of Nonprofit Innovation and Education. Randy brings with him a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the nonprofit sector, promising to be a transformative addition to their team. Help Filament Essential Services welcome Randy through their website at filamentservices.org.
Filament Essential Services is committed to serving those who serve others. It’s the backbone of their mission and it’s the center of the work they do every day. They are dedicated to becoming an essential component in their mission that empowers them to be more efficient, more powerful and more impactful. Learn more at filamentservices.org.
The Foundry is proud to announce the addition of three new Intern Foundry Coordinators to its team in Lincoln. Peyton Schoone, Audrey Ellis and Livia Ziskey, all of whom have previously completed the Intern Foundry program as interns, and they will be joining the organization in new roles.
The Intern Foundry (IF) program, a collaborative effort between the Foundry and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Honors Program, aims to combat the "brain drain" in Nebraska by connecting the University's top-performing students with hands-on learning experiences in vital community sectors.
In the IF program, students are carefully matched with partner organizations aligned with their skills and interests. Interns undergo specialized project management training before embarking on projects that directly contribute to the organization's core mission and immediate needs. This opportunity is instrumental in empowering young talent to explore diverse career pathways, ultimately enhancing the prospects of retaining these bright minds in Lincoln and Nebraska and bolstering the region's workforce.
Foundry Talent Leader-level sponsors play a significant role in directly supporting the Intern Foundry program by sponsoring highly skilled interns and fortifying the project capabilities of non-profit organizations.
Foundry Talent Leader corporate sponsor organizations (or a designated non-profit) will gain access to up to 120 hours of intern project talent during the designated term.
The Foundry is excited to welcome Peyton, Audrey and Livia to the Intern Foundry team and is eager to continue its mission of fostering positive change in Lincoln by supporting, educating and developing essential capacity in all organizations.
For more details about the Intern Foundry program and sponsorship opportunities, visit thefoundry.co, or reach out to hello@thefoundry.co.
Caring Friends In-Home Care is excited to announce two new employees have joined their team! They are happy to welcome Lori McCroden who joins their team as a Talent Acquisition and Marketing Specialist. Lori will be assisting with hiring team members and marketing in central Nebraska.
Additionally, Caring Friends In-Home Care announces Makenzie Crumbliss has also joined their team! Crumbliss joins the team as a site coordinator covering Adams, Clay, Webster and Nuckolls counties. She will assist with bringing on new clients and supervising caregivers in her area.
Both team members joined in May 2024 and have been doing exceptional work ever since.
Caring Friends In-Home Care is proud to support 43 counties in Nebraska. They provide tailored, compassionate homecare for your loved ones, including services such as meal preparation and planning, housekeeping and laundry. They make sure that your loved ones feel safe in their own home. Their care team understands the challenges many clients face and will help you navigate the road ahead. Learn more at Caringfriends.com or contact them at (402) 207-1050.
Farmers Union Midwest Agency (FUMA) is exhilarated to welcome Financial Services Specialists Peyton Stammer and Theresa Burnell to the FUMA team!
Peyton has been working in the insurance industry for 15 years. Before joining Farmers Union, she worked as an Agent Success Manager for 15,000 agents across the country, educating every agent on over 100 carriers. Theresa started her career in the insurance and financial industry in 2003 so with her 20 years of experience she is looking forward to helping our Lincoln community and FUMA members with their insurance and financial needs.
As financial services specialists, Peyton and Theresa will provide comfort and education to agents and their clients on all things life, health and annuity.
Peyton is a wife and mother of four beautiful children. Peyton’s family enjoys camping, boating, swimming and attending the children’s’ sporting events. Theresa is born and raised in Texas and she moved to the Midwest in 2015 and enjoys spending time outdoors, gym and church. Contact Peyton at (402) 525-6536 or peyton@fumafinancial.com.
Farmers Union Midwest Agency provides insurance protection to individuals, family farms and business of all sizes. FUMA and its agents strive to build better communities by protecting where its clients work, where they live, what they own and the ones they love. It is FUMA’s individual and organizational goal to provide quality products and the highest level of customer service to not just meet its customer’s expectations, but to exceed them!
To learn more visit fumainsurance.com.
Friendship Home is thrilled to announce that registration for this year’s Safe Quarters event is LIVE and open to the public!
Safe Quarters is not just an event; it is a lifeline for Friendship Home and the survivors that you serve. Funds raised during this annual event play a crucial role in your community’s ability to provide crisis services and safe shelter for those who need it most. By supporting Safe Quarters, whether as a volunteer or a donor, you are directly contributing to the well-being and recovery of domestic violence survivors. Their goal is to raise $100,000 with over 75 teams participating! Please help them make this their most successful year yet by registering a team, gathering your friends and family and most importantly, spreading the word!
Register TODAY to secure your neighborhood at friendshiphome. org/safe-quarters-registration.
Friendship Home’s mission is to meet the needs of domestic violence survivors and their children, Friendship Home’s current facilities have expanded shelter options including transitional housing and single family shelters. Learn more at friendshiphome.org.
Join Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska (DSAF) as they unite for a common cause and raise funds at the 2024 Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk. Whether you have Down syndrome, know somebody who does or just want to show your support, take the first step and donate or sign up to walk with them today. The walk takes place on Saturday, October 5, at Antelope Park. Festivities start at 8 a.m. and the walk starts at 9:30 a.m.
You can register on their website at ds-stride.org/dsafstepup/ register. For individuals with Down syndrome, the walk is free with a t-shirt included! Register with a team or to join a team by September 4 to get a t-shirt.
The Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska is committed to providing support and a positive vision for the future for individuals with Down syndrome, their families, friends, educators and professionals who share in their lives. Learn more at dsafnebraska.org.
Apace is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its new location at 4433
S 70th St., which will house both its corporate offices and one of its innovative Day Centers. The ribbon cutting ceremony will take place on Wednesday, August 28, at 3:00 p.m. Apace is excited to welcome the community to join them in celebrating this significant milestone.
The new Apace facility is designed to provide a vibrant and supportive environment for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Its bright and open Day Center offers an inclusive space for diverse programming and classes, promoting engagement and community involvement. This new location underscores Apace’s commitment to enhancing the lives of those Apace serves through quality services and support.
"We are so excited to be in these new offices and to have one of our day centers in the same building," said Matt Kasik, Apace CEO. "This new space allows us to better serve our community and provide an enriching environment for the people we support."
For more information, visit Goapace.com, or contact Sarah Railsback at srailsback@goapace.com.
Are you passionate about helping cancer patients?
Do you love planning fun events for a great cause?
Or perhaps you have lived experience with cancer, understand the journey, and want to help those who are currently on their own? If so, Heartland Cancer Foundation invites you to join the Heartland Cancer Foundation’s Impact Guild!
The Impact Guild is a dedicated group of volunteers committed to spreading awareness about the Heartland Cancer Foundation’s mission: ensuring no cancer patient falls behind on treatment due to financial struggles. As a member, you’ll play a crucial role in engaging the community, participating in fundraising events and hosting activities that make a real-life impact.
They need your help with upcoming events, including the highly anticipated 10th Annual Mardi Gras Gala next February. This is a fantastic opportunity to use your event planning skills, creativity and passion for helping others to support cancer patients in need. By joining the Impact Guild, you’ll become part of a supportive and compassionate community dedicated to providing practical and immediate financial assistance to local cancer patients. Your efforts will help remove barriers to care, offering hope and relief to those on their healing journey.
Are you to make an impact? Visit the Impact Guild page at heartlandcancerfoundation.org to learn more and apply today. Together, you can bring compassion and hope to those who need it most.
Learn more and join the Impact Guild by visiting heartlandcancerfoundation.org.
Nebraska-based irrigation efficiency technology startup, Nave Analytics, announces a $400,000 pre-seed fund round to advance its irrigation analytics platform. The fundraising round includes investors from Invest Nebraska, Husker Venture Fund, Nelnet and Nebraska Angels Capital Group. Nave will utilize the funding to complete software development projects, fund R&D efforts, support the first year of commercial operations in the USA, and expand into new geographies globally.
“Nave Analytics is seeing a ton of momentum after having the founders working full-time building the company,” says Founder Jessi Korinek, “We are so grateful to our investors for their early belief in our vision for Nave Analytics to bring an innovative approach to water management.”
Nave Analytics is gearing up for its first growing season, providing an irrigation decision support tool to farmers and agronomists across the US, beta-testing their pre-season planting decision support tool, and expanding globally. They’re not just a software or data-as-a-service company. Nave is a solution provider, helping farmers, agronomists and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector make more informed decisions. To lean more, visit naveanalytics.com.
Lincoln TeamMate’s partnership with community-minded Fiserv is seven years in the making, with a recent uptick worthy of celebration. A more intentional connection with Fiserv in 2023-24 and on-site training meant they could welcome 22 newly-trained TeamMates mentors.
The catalyst event included an in-person visit from TeamMates cofounder, Coach Tom Osborne, and an address from Fiserv SVP, Anthony Goins.
Fiserv associates like Jerry Bartek, a current mentor, played key roles as well.
“I am so proud to work for a company that supports great Lincoln community causes,” says Bartek. “Employees are encouraged to be mentors and provided a flexible schedule to meet with mentees during the school year.”
Thanks to the enthusiastic response from Fiserv, 22 more waiting students will be matched when school reopens this fall. “A TeamMate mentor can be a difference maker, as an extra coach/cheerleader in the lives of mentees,” adds Bartek. “I recommend and promote the TeamMates program to my Fiserv peers whenever the opportunity arises.”
Will you and/or your business partner with Lincoln TeamMates to impact the community through mentoring? There are many ways you can help. Contact Jim Bennett for more information. Call (402) 4361990, or visit LincolnTeammates.org.
The Safe and Together Institute is an inperson and virtual training program with learning materials consisting of domestic abuse and child welfare. They base their training off a model made up of three principles; the first one being to keep the child(ren) safe and together with the nonoffending parent to provide safety, stability and nurturance. As well as partnering with non-offending parent as a default position and intervening with perpetrator to reduce risk and harm to the child(ren). The model is crucial for advocates on the Family Services team at Voices of Hope as it helps provide the appropriate language to use when working directly with clients. Overall, the model is trauma-informed, survivor-centered, and has the goal of holding perpetrators accountable. Contact Yaquelin Cisneros, Resource Development Coordinator, at yaquelin@voicesofhopelincoln.org to learn more, or visit their website at voicesofhopelincoln.org.
Voices of Hope mission is two-fold; to provide services to victims and their significant others who are faced with the traumatic aftermath of sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, human trafficking, incest and childhood abuse, and to provide information about these crimes for the purposes of citizen awareness, prevention and to enhance the sensitivity and professional understanding of those who may work with individuals with these problems. To learn more visit voicesofhopelincoln.org.
GracePointe by Tabitha—Lincoln’s leading senior community for assisted living and memory care— announced the grand opening of its newest resident amenity: Café 1886, an in-house, full-service lunch and dinner dining experience.
Café 1886’s motto, “Gather with Grateful Hearts,” is reflected in its menu: mindfully curated cuisine inspired by eras of Tabitha. Residents and family can enjoy Nebraska classics, restaurant favorites and seasonal specials.
The opening of Café 1886 includes updates inspired by resident feedback: a dining room with increased accessibility, a more efficient way for residents to place to-go food orders upon request, and a gathering space for neighbors from all floors to dine together and with visitors.
“Tabitha highly values love, connection and collaboration,” said Megan Novell, Administrator, GracePointe by Tabitha. “Café 1886 was created with those core values in mind. We’re excited to see residents and families spending quality time together while enjoying great food, all thanks to Tabitha’s outstanding culinary team. This is just one of the perks that makes GracePointe feel all the more like home.”
To learn more, view floorplans and explore maintenance-free senior living, visit Tabitha.org/GracePointe.
As the state’s quality award-winning expert for older adults, nonprofit Tabitha empowers people to live joyfully, age gratefully. Supporting families since 1886 across Nebraska, Tabitha offers a range of services, from results-driven rehabilitation, accessible at-home home health care, innovative living communities and compassionate hospice services. Tabitha is Your Answer; learn more at Tabitha.org.
The Bridge Behavioral Health is asking the community for support through their Summer Supply Drive. Items collected during this time are critical, as the temperature heats up. All items used go directly to clients in withdrawal, respite and residential treatment, giving them recovery with dignity.
The Bridge is in current need of men’s gym shorts, men’s underwear (new only), men’s lounge pants, men’s pants and jeans sizes 28-34 and men’s tennis shoes. All items can be new or in gentle used condition, with the exception to underwear. Contact Brianna at (402) 4132200 or bgeorgeson@thebridgenebraska.org to learn more.
The Bridge 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. Learn more about their mission at thebridgenebraska.org.
The Nebraska Safety Council (NESC) is thrilled to offer new packages designed specifically for HR managers, supervisors, front-line staff, construction workers and more! These packages are discounted for both members and non-members.
The Build Smart Bundle (BSB) is a collection of classes and training options developed to prepare new team members and provide ongoing training for key staff members. This program is designed to work with teams to build knowledge and confidence, providing peace of mind when they are out in the field.
The Employee Essentials Bundle (EEB) understands the challenges employers face to hire, engage and retain individuals. Whether it is integrating an effective employee wellbeing plan, providing a creative and competitive benefits package or simply keeping employees safe, Human Resources Management is a critical component to any organization’s success.
The Climate Craft & HVAC Essentials Bundle (CCHB) was developed for the HVAC Industry to help engage team members, educate employees with life-saving training and most importantly, create a cost-effective solution to maximize the overall bottom line.
“We understand the challenges employers face staying ahead with training, compliance and professional development for their people. Our team has designed these bundles to provide turn-key and affordable training and education solutions,” says Executive Director John Lefler, Jr.
Learn more and register at nesafetycouncil.org.
The Nebraska Safety Council is a 501(c)(3). Their mission is to provide education and leadership to empower Nebraskans to live safely and healthily. They offer comprehensive programs, training courses, events and services that are designed to improve employee care at a desk, on the production floor, behind the wheel and on the job. To learn more or to sign up for membership today, visit nesafetycouncil.org, call (402) 483-2511 or email info@nesafetycouncil.org.
Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach
is celebrating National Make-A-Will Month this August by offering the community a free online program called FreeWill, an estate planning tool that guides you through the process of creating a legally valid will or trust. You are even able to designate beneficiaries for nonprobate assets (such as an IRA, 401(k), or life insurance policy).
This resource is easy to use, can be completed in 20 minutes, and will ensure that the organizations you care about stay a consistent source of hope and support to individuals and families in Lincoln for generations to come.
Making a will is the best way to protect your loved ones and contribute to the people and causes you love the most. Learn more at mtko. org/donate/planned-giving or contact Lori Wellman, Director of Development at lori.wellman@mtko.org or (402) 817-0621.
The mission of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is to relieve hunger, overcome homelessness, address addiction, and provide outreach and advocacy. Last year Matt Talbot provided over 250,000 meals and 50,000 homeless prevention services such as housing, drug and alcohol evaluations, life skills classes and help with obtaining vital identification documents. Learn more at mtko.org.
For several years now, the People’s City Mission’s (PCM) shuttle has travelled daily across Lincoln between the temporary housing location on West O and the Help Center on East P. In addition to providing guests with transportation to and from the Help Center, shuttle drivers Larry Gouin and Terry, make sure they are doing their best to meet the needs of the homeless in Lincoln who are living on the streets. They will stop to talk and pray with folks, and hand out to-go meals and much needed bottles of water. In winter they also hand out cold weather gear. Occasionally volunteers will ride along to assist in this street outreach.
When temperatures are so high, as they have been throughout summer, hydration is paramount to keeping Lincoln’s homeless population safe. PCM is so thankful for these men and our volunteers who care so deeply for vulnerable folks on the streets, as well as those in our community who are passionate to help these illusive homeless through filled backpacks and other strategic in-kind donations. If you or your organization would like to donate water, assemble to-go meals, or ride on the PCM shuttle to participate in street outreach, contact Josh Burkey at jburkey@pcmlincoln.org.
People’s City Mission is to be a witness for Christ among the poor and homeless, serve their needs and advocating their cause to the community at large. Today, they’re Lincoln’s primary homeless shelter housing 350 men, women and children on an average day. To learn more about their mission go to pcmlincoln.org.
Nebraska Diaper Bank (NDB) hosted their first Lincoln diaper wrap with Farm Credit Services of America. Farm Credit brought a competitive group of volunteers who wrapped 18,900 diapers, which will help 315 babies! Their work put the business seventh on NDB’s all-time leaderboard. Businesses who volunteer help NDB keep babies happier, healthier and safer. Want to make a difference?
Volunteers will open diaper boxes, count and wrap diapers to make NDB’s monthly diaper supplements. Nebraska Diaper Bank serves 800 babies a month in Lincoln, so all wrapped diapers make a direct impact for local families. NDB also hosts mobile wraps. Businesses or clients sponsor the diapers, donate their time and NDB comes to any location! NDB also has a high need for businesses to host a diaper drive. Gather coworkers, collect diapers, and raise awareness. Download the toolkit on Nebraska Diaper Bank’s website at nebraskadiaperbank.org.
Clean, dry diapers are necessary to the health and well-being of growing babies, yet many families struggle to provide enough diapers for their child’s needs. Diapers reduce family stress and help parents go to work. Last year, Nebraska Diaper Bank distributed over 2.8 million diapers to 10,784 babies, and they are on track to distribute 3.5 million diapers in 2024.
Call (402) 557-8205 or email mikaela@nebraskadiaperbank.org to schedule a diaper wrap or a mobile wrap. Learn more about Nebraska Diaper Bank as a nonprofit at nebraskadiaperbank.org.
A playground’s surface is just as important as the toys and equipment it holds. Thanks to generous community volunteers, Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties replaced much of its playground’s thinning grass, dirt and mulch with soft turf grass at its 26th St. Head Start center. This upgrade allows children to play outside more safely and comfortably.
Volunteers from Nebraska Machinery Company (NMC) and Spreetail made this project possible. They spent a full day pulling up old sod, raking mulch and preparing the area for a new patch of turf.
“This makes such a difference for the children we serve, who can now enjoy the playground space in more kinds of weather,” said Janelle Maybee, Community Action Head Start Enrollment and Compliance Coordinator.
Community Action would like to thank the NMC and Spreetail volunteers who donated their time and efforts to this project.
To help complete the final phase of Head Start’s playground turf project, whether through donations or volunteering, contact Sam Bates at sbates@communityactionatwork.org or (402) 875-9320.
Community Action partners with its community in fearless pursuit of anti-poverty solutions so 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.
The Fallbrook YMCA will be hosting its eighth annual Youth Triathlon on Monday, September 2, in support of the YMCA Annual Fundraising Campaign.
The Youth Triathlon has become a Labor Day tradition for families and consists of a swim, bike and run with designated distances based on age.
The triathlon is open to kids ages five and up, and all skill levels are encouraged to participate in this fun, untimed event. Registration is $25 per participant and includes a t-shirt for those who register prior to August 14.
“This event is a great way to give kids a taste of the triathlon setting in a fun and safe environment,” commented Kelly Fink, Associate Executive Director for the Fallbrook YMCA. “By participating, kids are not only embracing wellness, but they are learning about the Y’s core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.”
Event proceeds benefit the YMCA’s Annual Fundraising Campaign, ensuring that every child, family and senior has access to lifechanging programs at the Lincoln Y. For registration information and additional details on the Fallbrook YMCA Youth Triathlon, visit YMCALincoln.org/YouthTriathlon.
As one of Lincoln’s largest nonprofit organizations focusing on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the YMCA of Lincoln has served the community for over 150 years–promoting positive values through programs that build spirit, mind and body for all. For more information, visit YMCALincoln.org.
CenterPointe and their partners at Stop Overdose Nebraska and Wellbeing Initiative invite you to an Overdose Awareness and Remembrance Event at the CenterPointe WellBeing Garden located at 2202 S 11th St. on Thursday, August 29, from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
This important event will happen during Overdose Awareness Week as we remember those we have lost to overdose, hear firsthand from someone who has struggled with addiction, provide a demonstration on administering Narcan and end with a candlelight vigil. Light refreshments will be provided.
Over the past 50 years, CenterPointe has been offering high-quality, evidence-based care. They’ve grown to include over 40 programs including mental health and substance use treatment, primary care service, rehabilitation, medication management, 24-hour crisis response and housing. CenterPointe helps people get better, sooner, for longer. Learn more about what they do at centerpointe.org.
Are the current changes within the public school system concerning you? It should, and Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) of Nebraska is here to provide an alternative voice of reason and truth through the after-school Good News Club (GNC) for elementary students.
The Good News Club is a dynamic Bible club held right where the children are—in churches, neighborhood homes, community centers apartment complexes and especially local public elementary schools—just about anywhere the children can easily and safely meet with their parent’s permission. These action-packed clubs meet once a week right after school. Each club features snacks, prizes, songs, an exciting Bible lesson, a missionary story, review games or other activities. They are led by trained Christian teenagers and adults. The GNCs begin in September.
Vision Maker Media is hosting this year’s hybrid Producers Summit themed “ Spark & Ignite a Vision ,” Thursday, August 22, at the Choctaw Cultural Center in Calera, OK as well as virtually through the Whova app. This all-day hybrid event is free and open to the public. Register to attend via the Whova app below.
This event is set to “ Spark ” and “ Ignite ” stories from Native communities. Attendees will be introduced to various aspects of film production, and VMM will share some current projects and initiatives to light your creative fire.
Register to attend all five hybrid sessions, which will be live streamed through their Whova app.
• Session One – Decolonizing & Futurizing Media
• Projects to transform public media content.
• Session Two – Legacy of the Land
• Films that explore Indigenous knowledge and how traditional practices are driving climate change studies.
• Session Three – Indigenous Legal History Initiative
• University of Nebraska Indigenous Law and Race History talk about the laws that affected Native people for new filmmaking.
• Session Four – Firelight Media
• Firelight Media and VMM Fellows discuss community impact film projects.
• Session Five – CSF: The Mentor/Mentee Relationship
• Hear from a CSF mentee and mentor about their experience.
To register to attend virtually, download the Whova app at whova.com/portal/webapp/vmmps_202407. Visit their website at visionmakermedia.org or their Facebook or Instagram at visionmakermedia for more information about the Summit and the Sessions.
In 2011, the Supreme Court ruled that the Good News Club should be permitted to offer prayer and Bible reading to students. Since then, GNCs have been held in over 3,500 public elementary schools throughout the USA. CEF is looking forward to adding additional clubs to the nine GNCs held last year in Lincoln public elementary schools! Volunteers and financial partners are always needed, not only for existing GNCs, but for beginning new GNCs as well. To help make an eternal difference, contact Jonathan Musgrave with Child Evangelism Fellowship at (402) 484-7877 or through their email at office@ ceflincoln.org. Learn more online at cefnebraska.org.
Domesti-PUPS is excited to announce the opening of its new location at 4630 Y Street, and to celebrate, they will be holding an open house event on August 17, from 1 to 4 p.m., at the new location! Those who attend the Domesti-PUPS’ open house will have the opportunity to enter in a door prize for two tickets to Domesti-PUPS’ 12th annual Party in the Garden!
Domesti-PUPS’ Party in the Garden, set for September 6 from 5:30 to 9 p.m., will provide guests with a night of fun, including free food and drinks, live music, a silent and live auction and much more!
Domesti-PUPS’ mission is to improve the quality of life for persons with special needs through the assistance of animals and to promote awareness through education. Domesti-PUPS is a 501c3 community organization based in Lincoln and provides therapy dogs, service dogs and obedience-trained rescue dogs.
Domesti-PUPS’ service dogs help people overcome the limitations of their disabilities and the barriers in their environments. Their Pet Therapy program utilizes its certified therapy dog teams to provide meet and greet opportunities for people in nursing homes, hospitals and assisted living centers. Additionally, through the Edu-PUPS program, dogs are placed in the classroom to enhance learning and aid in the emotional leveling of children, such as Reading-PUPS, a program helping children with reading or speech difficulties. To help support the continuation of programs like these and DomestiPUPS’ mission, stop in at their open house event on August 17! To learn more, visit domesti-pups.org.
St. Monica’s is hosting their 18th annual Amazing Chase; join them for this one of a kind FUNdraiser. The event takes place on Saturday, August 17. The chase involves teams of four searching for secret locations all around town where they’ll perform all sorts of crazy challenges. Each team designates a beauty, a brain, a belly and a brawn for a variety of individual and team activates. These Amazing Chasers compete to raise support for women in recovery, to find and complete all the challenges and to win fabulous prizes.
Funds raised by this event provide substance use disorder and mental health services to women in need in the community, as well as support services for their families. You can help women start the path to healthier, safer and more productive lives. For more information, contact c.leigh.hellbusch@stmonicas.com.
St. Monica’s is an organization of passionate, caring professionals who assist women in overcoming some of life’s most challenging struggles and helping them live better, healthier lives. Their traumainformed and evidence-based practices address the root cause of addiction. They know women in recovery provide infinite value to themselves, their family, their friends and our entire community. Learn more about their mission at stmonicas.com.
Join men from across the U.S. for the Christian Business Men’s Connection (CBMC) National Men’s Conference
“The Call of Men.” The conference promises to be a dynamic event designed to inspire and equip men to lead with purpose and integrity. Discover practical strategies for success in your personal and professional life through engaging keynote speakers, interactive workshops and meaningful networking opportunities. Connect with like-minded men who share your values and aspirations. Go to Lincoln. cbmc.com/events for more info and to register for the conference.
Keynote speakers include Sean McDowell, Associate Professor at Talbot School of Theology, Biola University. McDowell is a renowned communicator and author dedicated to equipping the church to defend the Christian faith.
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to grow, learn and be encouraged in your journey as a man. Register now and get ready for an unforgettable experience at the first CBMC National Men’s Conference in 25 years!
Conference will be held at the Hyatt Regency at the Arch in St. Louis. The conference starts later in the day Thursday, October 3 and finishes after lunch, Saturday, October 5. Scholarships for registration are available for those who qualify. Reach out to Lincoln CBMC for details and transportation.
Lincoln CBMC is part of a global ministry in over 300 cities in the U.S. and over 90 countries. For information about Lincoln CBMC, connect with them on Facebook (@cbmclincolnne), visit Lincoln.cbmc.com or call (402) 204-1997.
Join Bridges to Hope at Screamers Family Restaurant for an electrifying evening of music, laughter and community support at the second annual lip sync battle. With all proceeds going towards Hope Village, a beacon of hope for those reentering the community after incarceration of experiencing homelessness, your participation makes a tangible difference. The event takes place on Thursday, August 22, doors open at 5 p.m. with dinner served at 5:30 p.m. Get tickets at bridgestohopene.org/event-details/2nd-annual-lip-sync-battle.
Limited to just 6 contestants, each performer will vie for the coveted title of Lip Sync Champion. With $1,000 for the first place winner, $650 for second place and $350 for third place, the stakes are high and the excitement palpable. The rewards don’t stop there! Enter the raffle for a chance to win a luxurious three-night, four-day stay at Myrtle Beach Condo.
Bridges to Hope exists to improve the quality of life and increase the potential of Nebraska’s formerly incarcerated, and they have formed their identity around that goal. Every day, they work together to help set as many of the formerly incarcerated onto a hopeful new path of success and rehabilitation. Learn more at bridgestohopene.org.
Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF) recently received the 2024 HUD Secretary Award for PublicPhilanthropic Partnerships. The award is a national partnership between the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Council on Foundations.
The Foundation received the award for its partnership with the City of Lincoln Mayor’s Office to increase affordable housing in Lincoln.
"This award is a testament to the naturally collaborative approach we take to our work here in Lincoln," said President/CEO, Alec Gorynski.
“We are grateful to be recognized for our strong partnership with Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird and her team as we work together to address the challenges surrounding affordable housing.”
The Lincoln Community Foundation convened more than 20 private and public stakeholders from the community to create a task force that provided a recommendation to the mayor that addressed the community’s affordable housing shortage. So, the Lincoln Community Foundation and the City of Lincoln Mayor’s Office co-created a new affordable housing loan fund within an existing, but defunct, Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) called Community Development Resources (CDR).
In just two years, Community Development Resources (CDR) has financed more than 300 affordable housing units for low-and moderate-income residents of Lincoln. The plan has stated a goal of 9,000 affordable housing units over a 10-year period.
The award ceremony took place on July 11 in Washington D.C. Board Member and retired Urban Development Director for the City, Dan Marvin, accepted the award on behalf of the Foundation.
Lincoln Community Foundation, established in 1955, has distributed more than $237 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of thousands of residents. To learn more, visit lcf.org.
Husker Fans Salute the Troops is partnering up with Oxford Great Escapes–Dream Vacations for two fund raising cruises, each with proceeds going towards troops in the Nebraska area. Support veterans while relaxing on a cruise ship with close friends and family by making a donation–cruise and travel costs a responsibility of the donator.
The first of the two cruises takes place in January of next year from the 15 to 22. It’s a Royal Caribbean cruise to the Western Caribbean and departs from Galveston, TX. The second cruise is with the Princess Cruise Line to Alaska, which takes place August 10 to 17 in 2025, with the departure from Seattle, WA.
Participation in either of these events helps support Husker Salute’s 2025 weekend of praise, pampering and preparation for approximately 100 Nebraska Veterans and Military families. The event is expected to include an inspirational keynote speaker, fun, free, family-oriented activates, complimentary hotel accommodations and three meals and a tour of Husker Athletic Facilities. The goal of this event is to provide hope, prepare for successful everyday lives and reduce suicides among military in Nebraska.
Register for the fund raising cruises by scanning the QR code, or contact Klo Oxford at (402) 327-1851 or koxford@dreamvacations.com.
Salute the Troops is committed to saluting, serving and supporting veterans and active military personnel to ensure that every person with ties to the military in Nebraska and surrounding communities feels respected and appreciated for their service and feels hopeful for their futures. To sponsor a Vet's salute weekend, learn more at HuskerSalute.org.
Junior Achievement is excited to announce that it will be moving its offices to a new location at Bison Inc., 631 L St., on July 29. This new space will serve as a dynamic hub for Junior Achievement’s programs and initiatives, allowing them to better serve the community and inspire young people to reach their potential.
Junior Achievement’s new office at Bison Inc. places them at the heart of Lincoln’s thriving business district. Here, the modern facilities and collaborative environment align perfectly with Junior Achievement’s mission to foster entrepreneurship, financial literacy and work readiness in youth.
This move will enhance Junior Achievement’s ability to deliver impactful programs and build stronger connections with local businesses and educators. As Junior Achievement settles into its new home at Bison Inc., they remain committed to their mission and look forward to continuing their work in empowering the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators. Junior Achievement can't thank Bison Inc. enough for their continued support of Junior Achievement’s organization and mission!
In addition, Junior Achievement is thrilled to announce its upcoming JA Business Hall of Fame Dinner & Auction, set to take place September 27. The event honors outstanding business leaders in the community and supports Junior Achievement’s educational programs. Junior Achievement looks forward to celebrating the achievements of its local business heroes with the community. For ticket or sponsorship information, contact Toni Rupe at trupe@jalincoln.org.
Mosaic is a wholeperson healthcare organization reaching across 13 states in more than 700 communities and providing support to nearly 4,900 people. Their services empower people with disabilities, mental and behavioral needs and autism as well as aging adults to live their best lives. Mosaic is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.
Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska is expanding “Mosaic at Home,” and community-based vocational programs, into Richardson and Nemaha County. Mosaic at Home, aka a host home provider, matches someone who shares their home with an individual who has an intellectual or developmental disability and provides the help that person needs to learn and grow. Help includes things like assistance with some of the tasks of everyday life and getting involved in the community. Providers work independently with the support of Mosaic to ensure success for everyone.
If you have a heart for others and a home you can share, working independently as a Mosaic at Home provider may be a perfect opportunity for you. Or, if you have a loved one with an intellectual or developmental disability, Mosaic at Home may be the perfect opportunity for them to have a new experience living more independently, but still getting the constant support they need. If you are interested in becoming a Mosaic at Home shared living provider, visit mosaicathomecareers.org.
For more information, visit mosaicinfo.org.
The Branched Oak Observatory is pleased to announce that they are breaking ground on their newest optical observatory, The Miller Astrophotography Research Center or “The MARC.” This observatory will feature two world class Takahashi telescopes a 250mm and 300mm. These telescopes join the collection, along with all the associated equipment including eye pieces, cameras and the two fully automated Ash Brand Domes. This donation was made possible by astronomer Tom Miller. Tom’s equipment caught the eye of the University of Texas and of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln while doing astronomical research using his two Takahashi telescopes.
Once completed, the MARC will make the Branched Oak Observatory the premier destination when it comes to astrophotography. This will make the Branched Oak Observatory number one in Nebraska, a top five destination in the Midwest and a top 10 destination in the nation. Funding for this amazing project is through grant from the Visitors Promotions Committee (VPC) and the Lancaster County Board of Commissioners.
Learn more about the Branched Oak Observatory on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and at their website, theboo.org. The Branched Oak Observatory is a 501(c)(3) and is located at 14300 NW 98th St., Raymond, NE. Come and visit where they “Bring the Night Sky Down to Earth.”
Angels Among Us is pleased to be hosting its annual gala on Friday, October 4 at A View West Shores. An Evening Among Angels: Black Tie Affair will be unlike any other event. Salted EDGE will be preparing the food experience and hosting the after party. In addition, there will be a live auction, silent auction and boat rides on West Shores Lake (weather pending) throughout the evening. Honorary Chairs Jeremy & Renee Vokt have been longtime advocates and supporters of Angels Among Us and invite you to join this event.
A special thank you goes out to Aflac (Presenting Sponsor), Fusion (Cocktail Sponsor), KLC Logistics (Honored Family Sponsor), Renaissance Financial-Tom Whiteing (Welcome Sponsor) and Truck Center Companies (After Party Sponsor) for helping to make this event a growing success. To register or sponsor, please visit myangelsamongus.org.
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, over 720 families have been supported with over $5 million in financial support. If you are interested in attending or sponsoring this event please contact Aly Goedeken at alyssa@ myangelsamongus.org or by calling (402) 934-0999.
Come out to Robber’s Cave to join Center for People and experience a cave tour, live music, food trucks and more! The event takes place on Saturday, August 10 from 5 to 10 p.m. Come join them at 925 Cave Rd. STE B for a day filled with fun, music and good vibes. This in-person event is the perfect opportunity to hang out with friends, enjoy delicious food and groove to live music! Don’t miss out on this chance to make new memories and soak up the sun, all while supporting Center for People. Hope to see you there! Get tickets at centerforpeople.org.
Center for People is here to break cycles of poverty and help people in Lincoln achieve lasting economic independence. They make it happen in three ways: life needs, talent marketplace and community involvement. You can’t pursue your dreams for tomorrow if you don’t have what you need today, from healthy food to diapers, clothing and support. This is their focus when they first started in 2003. In their next 20 years, they’re growing to help others toward economic independence. This includes education and training to help people advance to better careers and better lives. Learn more at centerforpeople.org.
Each month, Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS) opens up its warehouse to the general public for a warehouse sale. The CSS warehouse is located at 1300 N 14th St., and the next sale is slated for Saturday, August 17, from 8 a.m. until noon.
Help CSS sustain “Hope in the Good Life” while getting great deals on gently used appliances, furniture and household items. Shoppers can save on back-to-school needs with deals on new and gently used clothing, gently used shoes, books and toys for $1. Shoppers are asked to bring their own bags. Cash and checks will not accepted, card payment only. All proceeds from the CSS Warehouse Sale will go to support the work of the agency.
Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska is the charitable arm of the Diocese of Lincoln, serving all people regardless of faith in the southern third of Nebraska. Their services cover 24,000 square miles, offering charitable assistance through the Family Support Services that provide crucial financial assistance such as the St. Gianna Program, Food Market and Meal Services, Refugee Resettlement, Immigration Legal Services and Employment Services. Learn more at csshope.org.
The Nebraska Trailblazers Breakfast, scheduled for September 6, is an unparalleled opportunity for businesses and organizations to engage with the next generation of Nebraska's leaders. This event will provide a platform for young leaders and students to express their needs and desires in a career, while also allowing businesses to gain insights on how to attract and retain young talent.
The keynote speaker for the event is Tim Hodges, PhD, Executive Director of the Clifton Strengths Institute and a Professor in the UNL College of Business. Every individual registration also contributes a donation for a student or young professional ticket. Each table at the event will pair four business leaders with four high-achieving Nebraska students, providing a unique opportunity for meaningful interactions and the exchange of valuable insights.
The event aims to address the Brain Drain issue in Nebraska and give the incoming Generation Z workforce a platform to express what might encourage them to stay in the state. Attendees will have the chance to learn strategies for attracting and retaining young talent directly from the source and share the most important meal of the day with an invigorating cohort of Nebraskans dedicated to our brightest future.
The funds raised through the Nebraska Trailblazers Breakfast will support the sustainability and scaling of the Intern Foundry (IF) program, enabling high-achieving UNL Honors students to gain meaningful experiences, relationships and skills in Lincoln through project-based internships with local nonprofits.
The Nebraska Trailblazers Breakfast is set to take place on Friday, September 6, from 8:00 to 9:30 a.m. at 817 R St. For more information and to register for the event, visit thefoundry.co/ trailblazers.
Keep Nebraska Beautiful (KNB) is excited to announce its 28th annual Golf for the Environment Tournament, set to take place on September 12, at Woodland Hills Golf Course in Eagle, Nebraska.
This year’s event promises to be the best yet, filled with excitement, camaraderie and friendly competition–all for a fantastic cause!
Golfers will register at 7:45 a.m. and enjoy a grab-and-go breakfast and drink before the 9 a.m. shotgun start. Experience the beauty of Woodland Hills Golf Course, be serenaded by our bagpipe player, enter to win exclusive raffle prizes and capture the moment with complimentary team photos.
Join the fun-filled round of golf in the foursome scramble tournament, complete with mulligans and exciting hole contests. After the round, hear from KNB’s CEO and Board President while enjoying a catered lunch. Participate in a live auction, followed by the announcement of raffle winners, hole prizes and tournament winners.
Showcase your commitment to Nebraska’s beauty by taking advantage of a variety of sponsorship opportunities available. Sponsorship packages are offered to fit all sizes of support. For more information on how to become a sponsor, call (402) 486-4562.
Registration is now open! To secure a spot, visit knb.org/knb-events/ golf-tournament.
Since 1964, Keep Nebraska Beautiful has been a leader in environmental education, waste reduction and sustainability. KNB is always looking for volunteers to do even more! For more information, visit knb.org.
Wear Yellow Nebraska, an Omahabased cancer charity, ceased operations on December 31, 2023. Treasurer Kenny Champoux and President Michael Merritt are finalizing the dissolution. All assets have been distributed to local charities supporting Nebraskans in the fight against cancer. The people at Wear Yellow Nebraska express gratitude to their volunteers, sponsors and event participants for their 20 years of support.
After two decades of dedicated service, they have gracefully concluded its remarkable journey of uniting cyclists and community members to support local cancer patients in accessing life-saving treatment. Their purpose from the beginning was to bring people passionate about cycling together to celebrate life and fight cancer, and their proud of the work they did reaching that goal.
22 college students from across Nebraska returned to their hometowns this May as members of Nebraska Community Foundation’s (NCF) 2024 Hometown Interns cohort.
A Hometown Intern is a current college student who has completed at least one year of schooling or other learning experience and lives at home for the summer. They are compensated for their work through an anonymous NCF donor. This year’s interns are serving NCF affiliated funds in 17 communities.
Hometown Interns began the summer at a retreat in Keith County where they connected with their peers and learned about AssetBased Community Development. Over the course of the summer, they will work alongside their supervisors and other members of their local affiliated fund on a mission to discover and unleash the assets in their community.
“This internship isn’t just about gaining experience,” said NCF Community and Cultural Impact Specialist Becky Boesen. “Together, we’ll explore roads less taken, lift-up hidden assets, celebrate the uniqueness of our places and co-create an experience alongside local affiliated funds that will add value to the future of both students and their communities.”
After five years of internships, the endeavor is showing inroads to ongoing people-attraction efforts, and dozens of interns have elected to remain in Nebraska, most of them in rural communities.
“Hometown Internships offer evidence for NCF’s longstanding belief that the key to bringing young Nebraskans back to our state is an invitation,” said NCF President and CEO Jeff Yost. “By extending to these students an opportunity to play a meaningful role in communitybuilding, we are telling them we value their contributions to our state’s future and reminding them they will always have a place in Nebraska.”
Visit NCF’s website at nebcommfound.org.
Join Nebraska Brewery Running Series for a 5k Fun Run at Glacial Till Vineyard. Run, walk or job a 5k course, then celebrate at the finish line! Run for the support of Nebraska Children and Families Foundation. All levels of walkers, runners and joggers are welcome. Be active. Have fun. Give back! A portion of all proceeds go back to support Nebraska Children and Families Foundation. All participates must bring a valid driver’s license, you don’t need to be 21 to enjoy the event, but you must be 21 to enjoy the cider! The event takes place on Saturday, August 31 and starts at 11 a.m. Put your best foot forward and register for the event at breweryrunningseries. com/Nebraska.
Nebraska Children and Families Foundation’s mission is to maximize the potential of Nebraska’s children, youth and families through collaboration and community centered impact. They want to create positive change for Nebraska’s children through community engagement. Their vision is a Nebraska where all children will have the resources and support to thrive. Throughout the year, they sprinkle a comprehensive and unique blend of resources in communities across Nebraska. Learn more about what they do at nebraskachildren.org.
Say Hey There, a woman-owned creative studio known for its authentic approach and engaging brand voice, is celebrating a major milestone this summer: its 10th anniversary.
Founded by Mikala Harden in 2014, Say Hey There has partnered with more than 115 organizations on marketing and communications over the past decade, including Child Saving Institute, Foster Care Review Office, Heartland Cancer Foundation, First Responders Foundation and Safe2Help.
“Exactly ten years ago this summer, I took a leap off the ledge,” said Mikala Harden, Founder and Creative Director of Say Hey There. “I left my agency job to forge into the unknown and start something of my own. Most businesses close their doors by this point, and I don’t take it for granted that we’re still here.”
Say Hey There’s specialty lies in combining contemporary techniques with artisanal authenticity to manage brand strategies, develop creative content, and launch marketing and communications campaigns.
“Ultimately, our mission from the beginning has been to help nonprofits and causes speak up and be heard,” said Harden. “I know the fundraising world, and I know community engagement,” explained Harden. “Each cause and each organization is unique, and I believe it’s vital to hone in each brand’s individual voice and value to connect with potential advocates.”
Say Hey There partners with nonprofits and other community-focused organizations. Their philosophy is that the best way to promote a cause and spread awareness is through a strategy focused on compelling content, community engagement, and special campaigns.
For more information about Say Hey There, please visit sayheythere. com.
Nebraska LTC Pharmacy proudly denotes itself as a concierge pharmacy due to its unmatched attention to detail and quality customer service, unlike many other retail pharmacies. Located at 3901 Normal Blvd. STE 203, Nebraska LTC Pharmacy’s goals are to provide individualized patient care that both increases safety and prolongs each patient’s independence, to avoid the practice of polypharmacy, to increase communication among healthcare professionals, to reduce medication errors and hospitalizations and to provide a small-town level of customer service.
In 2011 Shannon Hammerschmidt decided she wanted to challenge herself and do more with her career. Making an impact in her community was her top priority, so Nebraska LTC Pharmacy was established. This was only the beginning for her and the pharmacy. She found herself running her business out of a closet sized office with just five clients. Then, fast forward to 2022, and now, she has five amazing employees and an expanded office space that serves over 300 clients!
See the following client testimonials as to why Nebraska LTC Pharmacy offers unmatched care, where everyone can feel that confident that their pharmaceutical needs and expectations will not only be met, but exceeded:
“Shannon and her team are responsive, professional, and best of all, CARING! Highly recommend NE LTC Pharmacy.”
- Sarah S.
“Shannon is the absolute best to work with! There’s no way I could keep track of all my dad’s meds by myself! The blister packs are a Godsend!”
- Brooke R.
“Great pharmacist and very knowledgable. Easy to communicate and explain meds.”
- Dillon W.
Benefitting Domesti-PUPS
Friday, September 6, 2024
5:30 - 9:00 p.m.
Strictly Business, 9200 Holdrege St., Lincoln, NE 68505 A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors:
Proceeds from this event will go towards supporting the mission of Domesti-PUPS, a local nonprofit that provides therapy dogs, service dogs for persons with disabilities, and trained rescue dogs. • Local food vendors • Vodka Bar Local wines and beer vendors
Friends–we missed you! Strictly Business took a break from its monthly Friends4Lunch networking event last month, but it’s back on for August! We just missed hanging out with y’all and seeing your smiles too much. So, our August Friends4Lunch event will be on Friday, August 9 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at McKinney’s Irish Pub.
Located at 151 North 8th St. McKinney's opens every day at 11 a.m. and serves Irish and American cuisine until 10 p.m. The bar is open from 11 to 2 a.m., and they have over 20 different beers on tap and 40 different Irish whiskeys. McKinney’s also does catering!
Strictly Business’s networking events, like Friends4Lunch, are the perfect opportunity to enjoy some down time while also getting connected with other Lincoln businesses. It’s always a hoot, so join us August 9 for after-hours business that doesn’t feel like business in the least! See more information on our Facebook page (@ StrictlyBusinessMagazine).
As always, these events are free to you–you only pay for what you order! We’ve missed seeing you all and want to keep the good vibes and networking going. We can’t wait to see you and your friends August 9 at McKinney’s in the Haymarket to catch up on all the things! If you have any questions, reach out to kacey@strictlybusiness.com / (402) 466-3330.
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.
AUGUST 2
GenLNK | LIBA Chamber U | Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
AUGUST 3
What’s Involved in Starting a Small Business | SCORE Lincoln
AUGUST 7
Lincoln Network-Wide Coffee & Connections Hosted by Midwest Bank | Center Sphere
AUGUST 8
BizNet: BeyondVision | LIBA
AUGUST 14
Level Up Lunch: The Entrepreneurial Mindset | Lincoln Young Professionals Group
AUGUST 15
The LNK - Savor the City| Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
Signature Speaker: Amplify Differentiation to Stand Out in the Marketplace| AMA Lincoln
AUGUST 16
Remodelers Council Tournament | Home Builders Association of Lincoln
AUGUST 21
HR Nebraska State Conference | LincolnHR
AUGUST 22
Hope Village Fundraiser | Lincoln Giving Spirits Evening Rotary Club
AUGUST 27
Coffee and Contacts | LIBA
AUGUST 28
Federal Legislative Growth and Development Forum | Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
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!
UBT’s Small Business Pop-up Shop is a space designed for entrepreneurs who want to test out selling their products at a physical location to determine whether a physical brick-and-mortar space is viable for their business. Located inside Union Bank Place in downtown Lincoln, the space offers qualifying UBT Small Business customers a free four-month period during which they can run their business out of a heavy-traffic physical location, which is often a financial boon to their business.
For small business owners who don’t yet have a physical location for sales, our Small Business Pop-up Shop offers a great place to determine next steps. If you’re a UBT customer and interested in applying, our application is at ubt.com/popup.
Our goal was to make Union Bank Place a hub for small businesses and commerce — backed by people who truly care about your success.
“We care for our customers, our community, and each other.” Our 1,000plus employees are empowered and encouraged to go the extra mile to live by that motto every day, whether that’s by providing an extra bit of customer service, volunteering at one of our outstanding nonprofits, or promoting positive culture within the bank itself.
by Travis Filing Executive Director
I sat down with Governor Pillen this week and spent an hour talking about property taxes and his plan to get Nebraskans some relief. Here are my thoughts. First, we need to look at the facts of the Nebraska property tax system and more importantly, the revenue of the system. In 2003, Nebraska collected $2 billion in property taxes. By 2011, it was $3 billion, by 2017, $4 billion and 2022, $5 billion. Last year the increase was about $300 million. So, next year, our property taxes will be going up a million dollars a day, if we haven’t achieved it already. That’s a problem, but not a property tax problem, it’s a spending problem and property taxes are merely a symptom of the overspending.
Property Tax – Cut fifty percent: Good!
Hard Cap on Property Tax: Good!
This provision puts a cap on the growth of your property tax at zero percent or the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This stops taxing entities from looking at us as opportunities to plunder to pay for special interests. “Here’s your budget, MAKE IT WORK.” This doesn’t mean our property taxes are frozen, Nebraska’s CPI has only gone down once in the last thirty years. However, it only goes up about three percent a year on average. So if your tax was $5,000 annually, they are now $2,500 and will take about 25 years to get back to $5,000.
Public Safety Exemption from Hard Cap: Bad!
Don’t get me wrong, Police, Fire, etc. are our most valuable assets and they need to be supported to the best of our ability. I just don’t like exemptions for hard caps; it prevents them from being “hard caps.” Public Safety is just a piece of the pie, and the CPI goes up three percent annually on average. That means the whole pie is getting larger every year and we can take care of our Public Safety sector with these increases.
State of Nebraska Funds K-12: Ugly!
I don’t like the idea of a statewide entity overseeing all our school districts. Every year our student spend goes up while test scores go down. Over the last ten years, the cost to e ducate a student went up 43 percent, from $11,364 to $16,214. Based on College Readiness Benchmarks, in 2013, the percentage of students that met the benchmark in English – 71, now it’s 50. Math was 46, now it’s 29. Reading was 48, now it’s 36. Science was 41, now it’s 30. The ugly truth is the current system has failed students, parents and taxpayers. Administrators, the plan isn’t working. It’s time for “Mom and Dad” to take over.
The overall plan is Ugly! Property owners are drowning in taxes and we need a lifeline. However, I’m no fan of a tax shift. So far, this appears to be a shift, dealing with the symptom and not solving the problem. We need to cut spending, PERIOD. Is this plan going to solve our problem? No. Is it a good “first step” toward solving our problem? Yes. The question is whether or not this plan is a first step in the journey or our final destination. If it’s “step one”, I’m onboard. If it’s our final destination, it’s certainly not my Utopic plain.
Husker Rehab’s location in Nebraska City is excited to highlight the hard work and commitment of its Therapist Tara Stukenholtz Nanninga, MPT and Office Manager Brittany Wissler to Husker Rehab’s mission of high-quality service and community involvement. Additionally, Husker Rehab would like to introduce Ashlee Miller, Nurse Practitioner for Collective Beauty, who will be providing services at the Nebraska City location.
Tara grew up near Peru, Nebraska while attending Auburn Public Schools. Upon graduation, she pursued a science degree from Truman State University in Kirksville, MO and the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Tara received a master’s degree in physical therapy in 1995 from the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Tara’s first year of physical therapy practice was with Jennie Edmundson Hospital and outpatient clinics in Council Bluffs, IA. While starting her family with her husband, Rod, she worked for Sundance Rehabilitation. Tara and her family moved to Nebraska in 1998 where Tara practiced physical therapy for 22 years. During this time, Tara attained specialty training in postural restoration, dry needling, Graston technique, LSVT Big and custom-made orthotics.
Tara joined Husker Rehab in 2020, and when she is not working, Tara enjoys playing French horn and trumpet, running, skiing, gardening and being outdoors. Tara and Rod now have three grown children and love to spend their extra time remodeling their cabin at the Lake of the Ozarks.
Brittany was born and raised in Nebraska City. She attended Nebraska City Public Schools and graduated from Southeast community college in 2012.
Brittany stays busy with her three younger children and hobby farm during her time away from the clinic. She enjoys gardening, hiking, biking, kayaking, snowboarding, traveling and spending time with friends and family.
Ashlee has been an advanced practice registered nurse for six years and has experience in chronic pain management, employee health and workers’ compensation treatment, as well as urgent care and medical aesthetics. She is a certified medical examiner for department of transportation and conducts DOT exams at the Nebraska City location. Ashlee also has 16 years of experience as a registered nurse.
Ashlee has always enjoyed working with and getting to know drivers as they get their initial or renewed DOT certifications. Ashlee provides flexible scheduling and reasonable pricing for DOT exams to drivers from all around Nebraska.
Ashlee also provides aesthetics services, including Botox cosmetic injections and weight loss support via her company, Collective Beauty. Ashlee believes in providing a natural, yet dramatically improved look with Botox cosmetic. As an APRN, she provides education, support, weight-loss medication management and accountability throughout the weight loss journey.
by Jason Ball President
The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Greater Omaha Chamber and the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry, is proud to announce the return of its annual Federal Legislative Summit on August 29. This year’s event, which will once again be held at the Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum in Ashland, will welcome all members of Nebraska’s federal delegation and feature a keynote address from Philip Wegmann, White House correspondent for Real Clear Politics.
Now in its 15th year, the Federal Legislative Summit boasts a longstanding history of success, serving as a unique platform for the business community to learn more about the critical issues impacting our local community, as well as our country. Initially branded as the Federal Fly-Back: Bringing D.C. Home, our inaugural event was created in 2009 by the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce as an opportunity to connect with members of the federal delegation after the collapse of Lehman Brothers. Following the success of our first Federal Legislative Summit, we invited our Chamber partners to co-host with us on an annual basis. This valuable partnership with the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry and the Greater Omaha Chamber continues today, positively impacting the strength and reach of the Summit.
As we approach the upcoming elections, this year’s Federal Legislative Summit holds exceptional significance to our business community. I encourage business leaders spanning all industry sectors to take advantage of this opportunity to hear valuable insights into the legislative priorities and policy directions that will shape our business landscape. Engaging with policymakers and understanding their positions can help business leaders make informed decisions, advocate for their interests, prepare for potential changes in regulations and economic conditions and navigate a rapidly evolving political climate.
I hope you will join us on August 29 for this long-standing, highly anticipated policy event. I also extend my gratitude to our federal delegation of senators and congressional representatives who have always been eager to participate and share their expertise with members of our communities, as well as the Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum for continuing to serve as an exceptional venue for this impactful annual event.
Visit our Lincoln Chamber of Commerce website at lcoc.com/events to reserve your seat or corporate table at the 2024 Federal Legislative Summit. You will not want to miss it, and we look forward to having you join us for a morning of engaging discussions and political insights.
Krueger Development is your source for commercial, residential and apartment needs. They are a leading real estate development and management company.
Now, their available residential lots are ready for you and your new home. The new lots are always located in friendly neighborhoods and picturesque acreages. If you’re looking for a new place to call home, they have the perfect lots for you. A lot goes into building a forever home and Krueger Development wants to be the easy first step to building the perfect house. If you are hesitant to purchase a lot because you haven’t found the right builder, don’t worry! Krueger Development has you covered. Each week, they post a Builder’s Spotlight in order to bring attention to those builders that go above and beyond in order for you to see your vision come to life.
Krueger Development has been specializing in commercial sales and leasing in Lincoln for over three decades. Buyers can purchase the lot directly from Krueger, which includes the exterior concrete, parking, parking lights and streets. If you are looking for a trusted and well-respected business to get you started with the development of your new office, you are in the right place.
When a buyer chooses to work with Krueger Development, they choose flexibility and ease. For more than 30 years, they family-owned and operated operation has contributed to Lincoln’s commercial and residential marketplace.
For more information on commercial building and leasing, reach out to the commercial property manager, Allison Santana. For more information on residential developments and house sites, reach out to the director of development, Christina Melgoza. Visit the new office location in the Woodlands at Yankee Hill: 8501 S 78th Street Suite A.
by Todd Ogden, President
Sharetea will be your go-to summer drink spot. Iced teas, smoothies, and boba with real fruit juice will satisfy your thirst for a cool drink in these hot summer months.
Sharetea opened its doors in July 2022, located on 19th and K St. Owner Kim Le brought the first Sharetea location to Nebraska. From the fruit jams to the boba pearls, all ingredients come from Taiwan and are made in-house.
Boba (also known as bubble) tea is a tea-based drink that originated in Taiwan in the early 1980s. Taiwanese immigrants brought it to the US in the 1990s, and its popularity has increased in recent years.
Boba tea is made of tea, milk, water, sugar, and tapioca pearls known as boba. Boba are edible balls of tapioca starch that often have a chewy texture.
There are over 150 Sharetea locations in the US and about 400 locations internationally. The Sharetea headquarters is in Taiwan.
"Everything comes from Taiwan," Kim Le said. "[Sharetea] is known for its quality."
All fruit drinks are made with natural fruit that has been turned into a jam to add to your beverage.
"We make everything fresh every day," Le said. "Everything is made in-house."
Le has always been passionate about tea and tapioca, but she first fell in love with Sharetea in Texas years ago. She ordered the mango passion fruit tea, and the rest is history.
"I knew I needed one back home," Le said.
A standard drink among the students at Lincoln High is the Oreo Ice Blended drink. Many students will stop by after school gets out; Sharetea has been a hip hangout. With its fun and colorful environment, Sharetea is a place to spend time with the whole family while cooling off this summer. Once school is back in session, it will continue to be a popular study spot. If you don't know where to start, Le recommends the Classic Pearl Black Milk Tea, a black tea with tapioca pearls and brown sugar.
Sharetea is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
TAC Payroll Solutions LLC offers comprehensive, multi-state payroll services, including certified payroll reporting, eVerify, new hire reporting and electronic filing of payroll tax returns and payroll tax payments. W-2s are also filed electronically with the Social Security Administration and state and local governments. TAC Payroll Solutions has timekeeping options available that include physical, web-based and mobile clocks. Also available is an employee portal for employees to view pay stubs and W-2s.
TAC Payroll Solutions offers bookkeeping services including but not limited to the recording of monthly transactions, reconciling bank accounts, preparation and electronic filing of sales tax returns, and 1099 preparation and electronic filing with the IRS.
“Our attention to detail, 24 years of experience, with an emphasis on community, while still providing services similar to the big box payroll companies, is what sets us apart from other companies with similar services,” notes TAC Payroll Solutions owner and manager, Terry Clark. “Here at TAC Payroll Solutions, we remember that we could not do what we love without our clients, so customer service is our priority.”
TAC Payroll Solutions LLC believes in a TAC-tical and personal approach to its clients’ payroll solutions and management. See the following testimonials to TAC Payroll Solutions outstanding service:
“We have been a customer of Terry’s for many years. The one-on-one relationship we have with her has been terrific! She has always been extremely helpful and very responsive. Her knowledge of payroll laws had been beneficial for us in the 4 states we operate in. We have complete confidence and trust in TAC Payroll Solutions.”
-Lincoln Hotel Group
“I have had a wonderful experience working with Terry. I am confident that she will ensure our employees are taken care of and all payroll is processed on time and correctly. One thing I value when working with Terry is her prompt attention to my questions and concerns. She works quickly to guide me when facing any issues or changes that need to be addressed. She has a positive approach and kind demeanor that make her exceptional to work with!”
-Melanie
T. Hilton Garden Inn Lincoln
“What sets Terry apart is her personalized approach and outstanding customer service. Terry is always available to answer questions, provide guidance and resolve any issues promptly. Her expertise and proactive approach have helped us navigate complex payroll challenges with ease. We are incredibly grateful for Terry’s reliability, and her contributions have been invaluable.”
-Kathryn A. Aloft Aksarben Village Omaha
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Establishing credibility with search engines is just as important as establishing credibility with clients and potential clients. Fresh new content is of the upmost importance for your website’s online ranking and your ability to hold on to a coveted top search position.
Strictly Business Magazine is your local expert for creating original, timely, backlinked and promoted editorial content, and the proof is in the 15.3+ million times our clients’ press has been seen in just Google Search Engine Result Pages (SERPs) per year. That’s over one million times that our clients’ content has been viewed in Google search results per month! WOW!
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We are so thankful for the healthcare staff that helps the Lincoln community thrive, and want to give a giant thanks for everything you do! You are noticed, and we do care!
If you would like to be featured in next year’s Thanking Healthcare feature, please reach out to Kacey at kacey@strictlybusinessomaha.com or call our office at (402) 466-3330. We want to highlight as many healthcare staffs as we can!
At Legacy Retirement Communities , we are proud to recognize our entire Legacy nursing staff for their hard work and dedication to providing the best possible care to each Resident. Every day, you go above and beyond to put the needs of our Residents first. Your kindness and compassion inspire us all. Thank you for all you to do enrich the lives of residents and your coworkers!
Legacy Retirement Communities provides Lincoln with award-winning elegance, superior care and countless reasons to live an enriched life. Independent Living and Assisted Living are offered at three locations: The Legacy at 5600 Pioneers Blvd.; Legacy Terrace at 5700 Fremont St. and Legacy Estates at 7200 Van Dorn St. Memory Care is offered at Legacy Arbors at 3777 N 58th St. To learn more, please visit LegacyRetirement.com.
We are so proud of the team here at Nebraska LTC Pharmacy. While you see the awesome results, there is so much hard work that goes on behind the scenes. The amazing team here continues to go above and beyond, and continues to rise above the challenge of the ever-changing demands of healthcare.
Every product that goes out of our door is something that we are extremely proud of. There is so much thought, time and hard work that goes into every single blister package we make. This team definitely prides themselves in the work that we do and we treat every client as if it were our own family. There are many other healthcare professionals that we work alongside of to make this a successfully process. Thank you to each, and every person who works to help us achieve success, and for holding our patient’s needs with such high regard.
Thank you for committing your life to taking care of the needs of others, thank you for staying late, for working hard and for your dedication day in and day out. While the days may get long, and there are no such things as “lunch breaks” or “restroom breaks” and we certainly don’t close for meal breaks, the rewarding feeling we have at the end of every day is so worth it.
To learn more about Nebraska LTC Pharmacy please visit neltcpharmacy.com or give us a call at (402) 328-0231.
HoriSun Hospice extends its heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to our incredible staff! Your unwavering dedication, expertise, compassion and professionalism significantly impact the lives of many within our community, making our hospice agency truly stand out. Your efforts bring comfort to our patients and provide much-needed reassurance to their families and loved ones.
Caring for individuals at the end of their lives requires both empathy and skill. In a field where burnout is all too common, we recognize the hard work and compassion you bring to your roles every single day. We are immensely proud of each one of you, and we know that the families we care for deeply appreciate the support you provide. Your dedication not only makes a difference in the lives of our patients but also enriches the lives of everyone you touch.
Thank you for your tireless efforts and for embodying the true spirit of hospice care. Your work is invaluable and we are profoundly grateful to have such a remarkable team!
HoriSun Hospice believes that hospice care affirms life. Our mission and promise to our community is simple – to provide the best care possible, 24 hours a day, seven days a week for all whose lives are affected by a life limiting illness or condition. Comfort, compassion and caring are our guiding principles. For more information about HoriSun Hospice, visit horisunhospice.com, or call (402) 484-6444.
At Simple Wellness Massage, we are so deeply proud and thankful for our amazing Simple Wellness team. Our professionals never fail to excel in the areas of professionalism, passion and most importantly, customer satisfaction. Our team truly cares about each and every client, creating a workplace atmosphere that is unmatched, and we couldn’t have asked for better experts in the field!
Too many people suffer from back pain, frequent headaches, tightness and soreness. Massage is an excellent option to help with chronic pain such as these. Simple Wellness provides therapeutic massage services, formulating each experience for each individual customer and the customer’s unique needs. Simple Wellness Massage’s goal is to deliver massage work that will leave its clients relieved and ready to live a transformed lifestyle.
Simple Wellness Massage takes great care in emphasizing and encouraging client communication to remove any uncertainty and incorporate education on how clients can benefit most from the massage. This is how Simple Wellness Massage exceeds client expectations visit after visit.
To see a full list of Simple Wellness Massage’s services, pricing, meet the therapist team or to make an appointment, visit simplewellnessmassage.com. Simple Wellness Massage is located at 5600 S 59th St. STE 104 and is ready to meet its clients and their needs!
Listing a home for sale or buying a new home can be stressful, now more than ever considering the housing market forecast. Expert opinion insists that the housing market will improve sooner than later, but there continues to be a delay in its uprising thanks to many economic factors, including inflation, which is slow to level.
For homeowners looking to sell in today’s real estate market, consider the following:
Ensure the home is in tip-top shape. Homes that draw attention and have well-maintained curb appeal can make or break a buyer’s final decision. Don’t ignore repairs. Don’t give buyers a reason to doubt the purchasing of the home. Make repairs or improvements to showcase only the most positive attributes of the home.
Contact a local real estate agent. Advertising is important. A real estate agent can expedite a homeowner’s selling process due to his/her/their local market presence or access to real estate portals.
Do the research! Homeowners should list their home competitively against other homes currently on the market. This is possible only if the homeowner keeps up to date with current pricing intel, so do research thoroughly and regularly!
For homebuyers aspiring to purchase their next home for memory making, remember:
Budget plan. Housing payments are influenced by several factors: home price, down payment, mortgage rate, length of loan, insurance, taxes, etc. One should determine a reasonable monthly payment based on his/her/their lifestyle.
Keep both eyes open. Stay up to date on one’s ideal market. Pay attention to turnover, available inventory, prices, etc. One never knows when a good deal will pop up and should be prepared to pounce!
Be confident. It is easy to get discouraged. One should strive for realistic expectations, be flexible and open-minded and don’t let the chaotic market convince one to buy what isn’t right for one’s budget or lifestyle!
Thankfully, Lincoln has at least one business to cover each of these aspects in both the home buying and home selling processes. Continue reading for information on the best businesses in Lincoln for enhancing curb appeal, remodeling, finding a real estate agent, financing, insurance and more!
Professional Realty Group (PRG) understands that buying a home is a big step! It understands the importance of investment, whether it’s one’s first home, dream home or tenth investment property, so PRG has a team of individuals that are experts in the field, ensuring that each of its clients find the perfect property for the clients’ unique circumstances, needs and style.
The PRG team knows and loves the real estate market, so they make it a priority to educate homebuyers throughout every step of the buying experience. PRG never wants its clients to feel left out!
PRG has seven top-performing real estate agents for Lincoln and the surrounding areas:
• Andrea Bleicher
• Andy Sprieck
• Ben Bleicher
• Danny Poethig
• Jen Pfeifer
• Mark Salak
• Tucker Velder
“I focus on client satisfaction. My business is about service, and I am not happy until you are happy,” says PRG Real Estate Agent Ben Bleicher. “Whether it’s finding you a home, finding the best loan or helping you get the most out of selling your home, I am here to guide you!” Check out Professional Realty Group for more dedicated and knowledgeable real estate agents such as Ben!
Loyal Lending Services
The first thing homebuyers should do is get pre-approved with a mortgage lender to determine lending ability. Once the homebuyer understands possible lending options, the homebuyer can adjust plans, if needed. The loan officer will be able to help identify available options that achieve the homebuyer’s goals, which is where West Gate Bank® can help!
To start the pre-approval process, homebuyers should reach out to their bank and speak to a mortgage loan officer. A mortgage loan officer, such as those at West Gate Bank, can provide a link to a free homebuyer education class. This class provides valuable information for first-time homebuyers. It outlines the necessary steps to prepare for home ownership and teaches how to save for the down payment and closing costs. It also has information on building and achieving great credit scores.
A good way to plan for buying a house, without racking up too much debt, is to know and stay within a set budget. Wait to get furniture and appliances after the loan application is approved and one has closed on the mortgage. Do not accrue any new debt prior to or during the process of getting a mortgage loan.
What is a good timeline for financing a house? The answer is after one has completed the homebuyer education class and has determined he/she/they are ready to take on home ownership.
Mortgage Loan Officer Amy Dang at West Gate Bank says, “Buying a house in the winter might help with bidding against fewer buyers due to lower demand.” Tips such as these are why West Gate Bank can be relied upon to not only provide homebuyers with loans options, but to also educate and inform homebuyers throughout every step of the process.
It is almost impossible to avoid all unforeseen challenges during the home buying process. However, there are steps one can take to be better prepared for any obstacles that arise.
Ashley Freese & Associates, Inc. knows how to be best prepared. It claims the number one thing is to ALWAYS get a home inspection done! As much as a home can look amazing on the outside, an inspection can make sure the foundation, siding, roof and utilities are all in good condition. Not only does this put the homebuyer’s mind at ease because they know exactly what they are getting themselves into, but it is also financially sustainable in the long run, ensuring all aspects of the home are safe and highly efficient. Ashley Freese & Associates, Inc. can help guide homebuyers through this undeniably important process.
Ashley Freese & Associates, Inc. also recommends that homebuyers do their research when looking for the right realtor, mortgage lender and insurance agent. “Make sure you feel comfortable with them and they understand you and your needs; that is most important!” says Owner Ashley Freese. “Purchasing a home is as unique as the family that is purchasing the home,” adds Freese. “Always make sure that you are comfortable, you are able to trust the professionals with whom you are and they put your needs/wants first.”
Ashley Freese & Associates, Inc. is committed to this goal of customer satisfaction. Freese and the Ashley Freese & Associates, Inc. team strive to serve its clients using its compilation of unique backgrounds, training and experience. So, Ashley Freese & Associates, Inc. is well equipped to support its clients’ home, auto, life and business insurance needs in Lincoln and the surrounding areas!
Hartland Homes believes that everyone should have the opportunity to own a brand new home. Hartland Homes makes this possible by offering equitable and simplified solutions for first-time homebuyers, offering clients the opportunity to build in one of Hartland Homes’ communities or any available lot, customizable floor plans ranging from 792 to 2,059 square feet and customizable finishes for both interior and exterior features. Hartland Homes is a homebuyer’s one-stop shop to home ownership, taking special care to ensure budget-friendly solutions and services.
Hartland Homes wants its clients to reap all the possible benefits of building a new home. Building with Hartland Homes ensures benefits such as included warranties, lack of repairs or remodeling, current building codes, customization and flexible building with all the types of loans or housing grants, including FHA and VA.
Hartland Homes encourages all clients to consult their lender to make sure they are prequalified and establish realistic expectations for the home buying and selling processes to come.
Hartland Homes wants to knock the myth that one must be wealthy to build or own a new home. “Hartland Homes has made owning a brand new home affordable and attainable for 40 years by offering smaller floor plans with standard finishes that use high-quality products and are energy efficient,” notes Co-owner Lea Barker “Hartland Homes also works with preferred lenders that have less stringent requirements, such as lower down payments or credit scores under 700, which allows more people to qualify and purchase their dream home.”
This October marks Hartland Homes’ 40th Anniversary of serving Lincoln and the surrounding communities, and they continue to make owning a new home possible for anyone and everyone.
Requisite Realtors
The best thing a homeowner can do is contact a trusted realtor! Realtors not only provide a market analysis, but they can also tell homeowners what is needed to make the home more desirable to secure the best possible price.
This is where Lincoln Federal Savings Bank (Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender) comes in! It is in the homeowner’s best interest to sit down with a lender prior to putting their house on the market to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding approval amount, cash to close and expected payment.
“With rates being a little higher than the last couple of years, we don’t want clients to be shocked when looking at a new home after they have their current home under contract,” says Lincoln Federal
Savings Bank Vice President Chris Elgert. “We direct clients on whether or not to sell their current home before finding a new house, if bridge financing is an option or how to overall proceed.”
It is important for the homeowner to understand what they will “net” when selling their home. Lincoln Federal Savings Bank wants to ensure that their clients’ new homes aren’t going to come with any unintended expenses. If that is the case, Lincoln Federal will help the homeowner make sure those items can be paid for without any additional financing.
“We also want to make sure that buyers are doing their due diligence before submitting an offer. We don’t want our clients to rack up inspection fees and see that money go to waste if the transaction doesn’t hold together,” notes Elgert. “Again, that is where a trusted lender, like Lincoln Federal, can be invaluable!”
Lincoln Federal aims to have everything into underwriting for final approval two weeks prior to closing and fully approved more than one week in advance. This customer dedication is why homeowners should look to Lincoln Federal Savings Bank as a trusted lender to guide them through the buying and selling process!
An important factor in buying a home is having a professional home inspection done prior to purchase. Schedule a home inspection with King’s Home Inspections as soon as possible after a housing offer is accepted. Home inspectors are in high demand and booked out several weeks!
As is common, King’s Home Inspections offers something called a “Whole House Inspection,” which is a comprehensive review of all aspects of the home. These range from $400 to $700 depending
If you think building is out of reach, then check out
*Homes starting under $330,000 including the lot
*Closing costs paid ** saving you over $6000!
*Low down payment loan options when you qualify
on the house and its features. Additionally, other inspections such as termite, radon testing, mold, lead paint and asbestos can be requested.
“An inspection can discover defects or issues with a home of which the buyer (and many times the seller) is not aware. These issues can be dealt with prior to purchase, saving homeowners money in the long run,” says Owner of King’s Home Inspections Randy King.
When choosing a home inspector, look for one that has years of experience and credentialing with a national association, such as InterNACHI, ASHI or NAHI. If possible, select one that is certified or a Master Inspector such as King.
“While a home inspection is comprehensive, it is not invasive,” says King. “The home inspector will often refer the homeowner to a specialist for further evaluation if a component is suspect.”
One can also purchase a home warranty to cover items that break or go bad. These are usually for one year and can be renewed, so ask a realtor or representative at the title company for more information.
“King’s Home Inspections can identify the age of a house’s components and help buyers formulate a timetable for remodeling, replacing or upgrading,” asserts King. “This helps buyers know what major expenses they may be facing!”
Randy King is an InterNACHI Certified Master Inspector with over 25 years of experience. He has inspected over 8,000 homes of all shapes and sizes in southeast Nebraska.
Resilient Realty Service
Buying a home, especially as a first-time homebuyer, can be tricky. Thankfully, the team at Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group of Nebraska Realty can help!
What are some of those tricks homebuyers should look out for when buying a new home? Look out for hidden costs such as taxes, insurance and maintenance; the location–safety, amenities and future development; home inspections; resale value and current market conditions.
Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group’s realtors are highly trained and have the knowledge and dedication to help clients navigate these steps, which can be confusing without the help of an experienced real estate agent. Whether one is buying or selling a home, acreage, farm or ranch, building new, pursuing a commercial investment or has a leasing need, Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group is more than capable and excited to guide a client through the process!
“Hire an expert realtor who understands your unique needs and listens to your aspirations. They should guide you seamlessly from pre-approval through closing and beyond, ensuring a smooth and successful home-buying experience,” offers Realtor at Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group of Nebraska Realty Alicia Chrastil as advice to those looking to become homeowners.
One must remember that there is no single right way to buy a home because everyone's situation is different. However, there are best practices–such as doing thorough research, being financially prepared, using professional help, being patient and staying informed on market changes and regulations. Luckily, the team at Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group of Nebraska Realty is prepared to help!
Mindful Mortgage Lenders
“For individuals that are considering selling their current home and purchasing a new one, a strategic initial step involves
assembling a trusted team of local real estate professionals”, assures City Bank & Trust Senior Vice President Shawn Lang.
“This team should include a lender capable of financial assessment and a realtor possessing in-depth market knowledge with experience in both buying and selling properties. Prioritizing lender pre-approval is crucial. This process validates purchasing power, strengthens the buyer's negotiating position and provides the real estate agent with valuable information about the seller's property to facilitate a comprehensive assessment of potential sale proceeds.”
Thorough preparation is essential for a seamless and advantageous home financing process. Prospective homebuyers should begin by scrutinizing their credit reports for inaccuracies and obtaining an estimate of their credit score. Establishing a clear understanding of available funds for a down payment is crucial. A comprehensive budget outlining income, expenses and savings will illuminate affordability. Moreover, allocating funds for potential homeownership costs, such as repairs or maintenance, is prudent. By diligently assessing these financial factors, individuals can confidently determine their purchasing power and suitable mortgage options.
Partnering with a reputable lender and real estate agent is essential for minimizing debt accumulation during the home buying process. A qualified lender can provide guidance throughout the loan process, prioritizing budgetary constraints and transparently communicating associated costs.
Here, one can look to City Bank & Trust. Simultaneously, an experienced real estate agent can effectively negotiate to optimize purchase terms and limit financial burdens.
City Bank & Trust is a reliable, trustworthy and experienced lending option for any mortgage, commercial, agricultural or personal lending adventure.
Buying a home can be expensive, which can mean a limited budget for refinishing and refining a home to fit the needs and wants of the homebuyer. Fortunately, paint is a long-lasting, inexpensive way to completely change the look and atmosphere of a home. Look to Remy Refinishing for any type of painting project.
Remy Refinishing offers services including exterior painting, commercial painting, handyman work and more! Remy’s painters are highly skilled and dedicated to customer satisfaction, capable of painting all types of wood and adept at painting staircases, fireplace mantles and surrounds, baseboard trim, window trim, door trim, doors and walls.
“In 2019, we got our first shop space and painted approximately 30 sets of cabinets. Since then, we have done at least 50 cabinets a year. In 2022, we produced 75 beautifully painted cabinets,” said Owner Jeremy Day. “Whatever your interior painting project is, I would love to chat with you!”
Remy Refinishing has since grown to paint the interiors of hostels, restaurants, health clinics and all types of office spaces and services Lincoln and surrounding areas. Remy Refinishing also partners with Sherwin Williams to offer its customers free color consulting to find the perfect color for any space.
Ana Perez is in her fifth year of realty, and she’s here to help. As a bilingual real estate agent, she wants to make sure that the bilingual community and its members are well taken care of during their journey into financing and looking for their forever home. She
The City Bank & Trust Mor tgage Team continues to grow, and now offers a diverse range of loan products including FHA, VA, NIFA, Rural Housing, and Conventional.
is driven, loves people and is always happy to help!
“Each client is different,” says Owner Ana Perez. “You know what you want and need, so talk with your agent to find your forever home.”
Before starting her realty business, Ana Perez remodeled and resold houses with her husband for years, and now, she has narrowed the process of buying a house down to a three step process. The first step is to always make sure that one is financially ready to buy a house. It’s important to decide on a budget before diving headfirst.
The second step is to find an agent that works specifically with each client’s needs. Reviews and reputation are important to consider when looking for an agent that’s the perfect fit. Don’t stop at the first agent that pops up. Ana Perez recommends interviewing them! Don’t settle for an agent, and make sure to research each agent before committing to the one that will help find the perfect home. Finally, one should go into the home buying process knowing what one wants. After completing those first three steps, buying a home becomes a breeze. Not only is Ana Perez an expert in the real estate industry, but she is also highly adept at working with all types of people from all walks of life.
Liberty Edge Curbing specializes in concrete curbs and boarders, which are a professionally installed, permanent and attractive solution to any landscape. Liberty Edge Curbing offers visually appealing concrete curbs that are sure to enhance the look and increase the value of any home or business. Liberty Edge offers a wide variety of curbing styles, patterns and colors and is more than happy to help its customers develop a unique design that is right for each client’s own personal needs and wants.
Curbing might not be the first thing one thinks of when buying a home. However, it’s amazing how much of a difference concrete curbing can make both literally and figuratively in defining boundaries while redefining style.
Value. Concrete curbing enhances the property’s curb appeal and resale value, making neighbors and buyers turn their heads when they’re out and about.
Ease. Don’t spend time on unnecessary lawn care. Seamless concrete borders are the perfect barrier to keep a yard where it belongs, so one doesn’t have to spend so much time trimming and edging.
Durability. Unlike plastic or brick pavers that crack and shift, concrete edging is composed of a specialized mix, admixtures and cable reinforcement, so the property is not only timelessly beautiful, but also durable.
Originality. Each customer has the freedom to choose from various colors, patterns and textures to match style and design preferences.
Versatility. Concrete curbing can be used to define walkways, borders, flowerbeds and even tree rings.
Affordability. Traditional decorative curbing has to be replaced every few years. With Liberty Edge’s sustainable concrete curbing, homeowners just have to make that first-time investment to achieve their dream landscape for decades.
It is crucial for homebuyers to review their budget before embarking on a home purchase. This helps determine a comfortable mortgage payment range. Subsequently, getting pre-qualified is essential in understanding one’s qualifications and in analyzing payments and down payment options. Homebuyers should share their budget with a loan officer to ensure the prequalification purchase price aligns with what the homebuyers are comfortable paying monthly as homebuyers often qualify for a higher price point.
“The best first step is to meet with a loan officer and get prequalified,” says Assistant Vice President-Mortgage Loans Stein Mach.
“This allows for an analysis of your situation and credit. If there are credit issues, your loan officer can guide you on how to increase your credit score or devise a plan to facilitate home ownership.”
Home purchases generally involve some level of debt, so meeting with a loan officer to discuss options and available programs is advisable. Luckily, Union Bank & Trust offers numerous programs and grants that can assist with down payments. However, it’s important to avoid taking on additional debt such as car loans or credit cards when purchasing a home as this can affect prequalification and approval.
Ohmberger
• Enhance the look and value of your home
• Choose from a variety of styles, patterns and colors
• Will not crack like plastic, rust like metal or shift and move like pavers and rocks
Getting prequalified is a straightforward task. Scheduling a meeting with a loan officer to review everything is the first step. During this meeting, homebuyers receive a copy of the prequalification letter, so they can commence house hunting. Once a purchase agreement is signed, it typically takes 30-45 days to close. This period involves working with the loan officer to provide the necessary documentation for the loan, ordering the appraisal and title work and submitting everything to underwriting for full approval before closing. Although this process can seem scary, Union Bank & Trust is happy to help its clients every step of the way.
It is important to understand closing costs and insurance costs and how they complement each other. Many homebuyers make the mistake of overextending on a home, and to compensate, they try to cut costs on the insurance and upkeep of the home. This is illogical and not sustainable, hurting homeowners in the long run!
“I sell insurance not homes. I would never want anyone to purchase insurance without a good agent and feel the same way about buying a home,” says Agent of Shelter Insurance Matt Moorhead . “Lincoln has many good real estate agents that work very hard to get homebuyers into the right home. Finding a trusted agent is the best option, so Shelter Insurance is there for you!”
From an insurance perspective, there are a few things of which Matt asks his clients to be aware:
Flood plains. There are several areas in Lincoln that fall within a flood plain. Homes that are within these flood plains require flood insurance, which can add additional insurance cost.
Prior water damage. Even if a home is not in a flood plain, several perils still exist when it comes to water and water damage. Schedule an inspection of the home to look for prior issues with sewer back up, outside rainwater and mold.
Roof and exteriors. Many homes have been impacted by severe weather in the past five years, and not everyone gets their home repaired properly. Again, schedule an inspection of the roof and attic of the new home before buying! If the home has previous damage that was not repaired, it may not be eligible for replacement-cost insurance or any kind of insurance before repairs are completed.
Shelter Insurance understands that buying a home with proper inspection can be financially daunting and a hassle, but Shelter Insurance makes it their mission to make the insurance process as stress-free as possible, all the while informing the homebuyer of the must-knows along the way.
Impeccable Investment Advising
When buying a new home, think about it as an investment. One should consider how long one plans to live in the home, whether someone else would buy and if there are any key updates that could be done to add value.
One should also set a budget, and don’t get underwater in payments. Plan for the worst! Like death and taxes, home repairs are inevitable! Have savings for repairs, get warranty coverage on the major mechanicals and don’t let the heart over power the brain. Be patient, it is a competitive market with lots of buyers.
“My number one piece of advice is to do it,” says Broker Matt Garner. “There is no better way to build wealth than real estate. Just don’t let the real estate own you!”
“The right and best way to buy a house is your way,” adds Garner. “What works for you?” This is where Pinnacle Realty Group can help. Pinnacle Realty has extensive experience as a brokering office, providing services in industrial, retail, multi-family, land, medical and investment property sale and lease transactions.
Whether one is buying a home now or six months from now, one
must evaluate what kind of financing is needed and whether the buy realistically fits into futures plan. These reasons are why Garner loves what he does.
“I get to work through all of these questions with all of my clients and help them decide what works for them,” notes Garner. “I can fall back on my 20 plus years of real estate knowledge to help guide my clients. I’ve seen a lot as a homeowner myself, buying and selling my own homes every three to four years, so I too have been through the buying, selling and moving many times.”
The Pinnacle Realty Group team, equipped with experience such as Garner’s, is the perfect choice to help businesses, investors and the community flourish through real estate brokerage services. Phenomenal Painting Services
Walter’s Painting Inc. has three decades of experience in the painting industry, averaging 15 busy team members all year round! Homebuyers can look to the seasoned expertise of Walter’s Painting Inc. to take a diamond in the rough and turn it into a statement of curb appeal!
“Our mission is to remain a leading contractor by providing the best quality work–quality at its finest. Priority is the satisfaction of our clients, so we always take the extra time to ensure you are satisfied with your space and the finished project,” assures Owner Jeff Walters.
Walter’s Painting Inc.’s painters are skilled and qualified in residential and commercial, interior and exterior and small and large painting projects, servicing Lincoln and the surrounding area. Walter’s Painting is dedicated to completely projects in an efficient manner at only the fairest of rates, using top-quality products to inform its clients painting and decorating decisions.
In addition to Walter’s Painting full service painting, it also offers staining and special coatings applications, including power washing! Walter’s Painting wants to be thorough in creating a perfect base for its painting. Clients can choose from a variety of high-quality paints, sustainable yet with minimal odor.
Clients can be sure that Walter’s Painting Inc. will take extra care in ensuring that all items not to be painted will stay completely clean as the team will do a full walkthrough to check for and address any concerns. This is what sets Walter’s Painting apart. For those that just bought a home or for homeowners looking to give their home a little revamp, don’t hesitate to call on Walter’s Painting Inc.
Clear-cut, Capable Construction
Buying a home can seem daunting if the home needs renovating. Luckily, Black Label Built offers high-end, quality construction to ease new and existing homeowners’ minds.
Black Label Built specializes in constructing custom decks, pavilions, pergolas, docks and more. With more than 35 years of experience in the industry, Black Label Built ensures each project leaves a lasting impression in functionality, curb appeal and style. Based out of Lincoln, Black Label Built is licensed and insured, allowing it to tackle any and all home projects.
“We are certified deck inspectors,” says Owner, Lance Roach. “So when buying a home, we could be considered a great contact to make sure your structure has no cause for concern when buying a new home.”
Black Label Built involves and communicates with its customers every step of the way. With our 3D design technology, Black Label Built’s clients have the opportunity to build their vision from the ground up. Whatever the client pictures or envisions, Black Label Built will be sure to execute.
Black Label Built’s comprehensive services are what sets it apart as
a leading construction company. Black Label can transform old decks and porches into well-designed and crafted masterpieces. Black Label can elevate the functionality of decks and patios by turning them into beautifully enclosed spaces to relax or entertain friends or family. Black Label will custom build stately boat or party docks that will weather the elements, adding years of enjoyment and value for its client. Black Label will even keep properties clear and safe during the winters as they are commercial snow removal specialists!
Black Label Built is here for you for any renovation, construction or informational needs! To schedule a consultation, visit blacklabelbuilt.com or call (402) 730-6333.
In the last decade of real estate, the market has been rapid with sellers expecting to receive more dollars for their property than their asking price, along with no inspections. This leaves buyers at risk for surprises when they take ownership. Now more than ever, it is important that buyers have a trusted advisor, a realtor, on their side directing these transactions, so look to HOME Real Estate.
“I always tell the buyers, ‘We don't live in a perfect world, so we will not have perfect houses,’” says an Associate Broker of HOME Real Estate Pat Ohmberger. “Your realtor can help with your negotiations on the transaction, advise you on to get a warranty plan and help with getting you in the right direction for your home owners insurance.”
HOME Real Estate wants its clients to have a plan and make sure they have expert advice. It is more than likely that there will be some unexpected bumps in the road, so one should make sure one has a trusted agent in one’s corner!
Every buyer brings unique experiences and expectations to the table, so there will never be one “right” way to purchase. But, if one has an experienced realtor by one’s side to guide the way, home buying should be a smooth and enjoyable experience for anyone! Realtors, like those at HOME Real Estate, can take each client’s experiences, expectations and budget into consideration and turn any homebuyer’s dreams into a reality!
It’s HOME Real Estate’s mission to deliver unparalleled value to each and every one of its buyers and sellers. HOME Real Estate’s agents love what they do, and it shows! Count on HOME Real Estate for any home-buying adventure.
At Firehouse Subs, we like to think it just takes one mouthwatering sub to make any day feel like a party. Well now, you can feed everybody at your next party, meeting or event with Firehouse Subs catering. Now that's called being a gracious host. Plus, just like every purchase at Firehouse Subs, a portion of your catering sale will go toward providing lifesaving equipment for first responders.
Two convenient Firehouse Subs locations for you to choose from!
This time of year always creeps up unexpectedly, pouncing on the rays and relaxation of summertime. Really, how is it August already?!
Back-to-school shopping can be stressful, annoying and overall time consuming, not to mention expensive! Corporate businesses really know how to capitalize during this time of year.
Lucky for the Lincoln community, there are businesses that know how to help alleviate what can be a nightmare. Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to be aggravating or expensive, and no one should have to dread this time of year again! Play It Again Sports can help support students’ back-to-school sports needs in a budget-friendly way, and Lincoln Running Company can help support the busy legs of students and guardians by providing great deals on shoes!
Then, after an enjoyable day of back-to-schools shopping, stop by a Firehouse Subs location to satisfy any craving and celebrate a relaxed back to school season.
Don’t let the timing of back to school ruin what is left of summer. Stop by these Lincoln stores, and seamlessly continue to enjoy a stress-free summer!
Supplier for All Things Sports
Everyone has back-to-school supplies on the mind, but what about back-to-sports supplies? Many fall sports start practicing long before the first day of school. Be prepared by paying a visit to Play It Again Sports.
Play It Again Sports is Lincoln’s
and
and fun environment. At Play It Again Sports, any athlete of any age can find quality used sports and fitness equipment. For those looking for new equipment, Play It Again Sports has an inviting assortment to fit every budget.
Play It Again Sports is the preferred store of value-conscience parents with growing kids because it buys, trades and sells quality used and new sports items of all types, which means great gear at great prices! Play It Again Sports has made it possible for many kids to participate in sports in which they otherwise may not have been able to participate.
Play It Again Sports is locally owned and operated, which means it provides the best customer service. Yet, as a nationwide chain, Play It Again Sports leverages tremendous buying power to achieve the most competitive prices.
Play It Again Sports is excited to show its customers how to easily raise funds for any organization or league, sign up for a coach's discount and the cool, used items it has in stock!
“You can bring in used equipment, make your own discount or go home with cash,” says Owner Kyle McMurray. “Anyone can enjoy the Play It Again Sports experience!”
Sturdy Shoes
Shoes are a staple to any back-to-school supplies checklist. It is important to have a solid foundation during school hours. This is where Lincoln Running Company can help!
Good running shoes for children can be hard to find and you need to determine how and when your child will wear the shoes. Are they using them only for running or all the time? Then there is the fit and, last but definitely not least, your budget. Here are some things to consider:
• Kids take 1,500 steps a mile when running and a boot can’t handle that! Children need shoes to run
• Get your child’s foot measured. Children’s feet change up to 36 times before they graduate from high school! Just because they wore a size three two months ago does not mean they still do!
• Have the sales person watch them walk.
• Make sure to bring in their old shoes. They can also tell a lot about their gait by seeing the wear pattern on their old shoes.
• A thumb nails width between the big toe and the end of the shoe means the shoe fits properly
• Tie them properly. Taking off shoes and putting them on with untying them will result in uneven wear and turn good shoes into bad ones quickly.
• Have good socks which fit well. Socks that are too big or too small will fall down and can cause blisters.
• Make sure you communicate with the sales person on what you are willing to spend. Sale shoes are almost always available!
• Above all – FIT! The fit and comfort is the most important thing. That is what will keep them running!
“We want the shopping experience with us to be just that, an experience, one that encompasses everything from shoes, training, nutrition and injury prevention to education or whatever else the customer needs to know about running, walking or moving!” says Manager, Ann Ringlein , “we've been one of the top 50 Best Running Stores in America three times now, and as proud of that as we are–we are more proud
of our relationships with our customers,” notes Ringlein. “We’d love to have you as one of those!”
Satisfying Subs
Back-to-school time means hard-working brains and therefore, hungry stomachs! Satisfy any studious or busy tummy with a sensational sandwich from Firehouse Subs. Better yet, check out the Firehouse Subs medium sub of the day for a great back-to-school meal at an even better price!
Firehouse Subs offers convenient yet delicious meals for this back-toschool season. Teachers, don’t know what to make for supper after a long day back in the classroom? Students, did practice go long, without time to satisfy that growling stomach? Parents and guardians, don’t know what to pack in a lunchbox for tomorrow’s field trip? The answer is Firehouse Subs!
Growing up in a family built on decades of fire and police service, it seems Chris Sorensen and Robin Sorensen were destined to start Firehouse Subs, and over 29 years later, Firehouse Subs has grown to exist in over 1,250 locations!
Turns out, people absolutely LOVE the same things as the Firehouse Subs founders–the best meats, cheeses and toppings that can be found. Take a look at their classic Hook & Ladder Sub for example, with Virginia honey ham, smoked turkey breast and melted Monterey Jack. Firehouse Subs’ customers come back again and again because, unlike other sub places, Firehouse Subs steams its meats and cheeses, releasing a rush of flavors, to stuff a serving that’s way over code on one of its toasted private-recipe sub rolls. It’s a winning combination that satisfies ravenous appetites and the value-conscious alike, which is why Firehouse Subs is the perfect destination and solution for the back-to-school season!
There’s nothing more exciting or important to Firehouse Subs than bringing its hearty food and heartfelt service to its guests, which is why Firehouse Subs is poised to grow and expand like never before! Don’t miss out!
Wedding planning is usually one of the more stressful times in a couple’s life. The planning on average takes over a year to fully put together and there are so many different pieces to consider all combined with the anticipation of walking down the aisle toward your future spouse can make a very non-relaxing year. However, that stress and anticipation can be reduced tenfold with the proper planning and proper preparation to make sure all of your planning goes exactly how you want it to go. By working with professional and well experienced people in order to make your wedding the wedding you dreamed of. Working with knowledgeable professionals in Lincoln can help make your wedding go from good to great. Couples can go from overwhelmed to comforted knowing that they’re in the right hands as they take the first step to the rest of their lives.
There are many questions that a future newlywed couple should be asking themselves before they dive right into planning their ceremony and reception and everything in between and, hopefully, these businesses will be the first push you need to dive head first into planning the happiest day of your life.
It’s almost guaranteed that when you’re planning your wedding you’ll be faced with a million questions, about what you’re looking for or what you want your wedding to look like, and these professionals are here to help that vision come to life!
These professionals are here to help you all throughout your wedding planning process! They answered questions such as, what are some wedding must-haves that wedding planner should have on their radar? What’s the hardest part about planning a wedding and what are some ways to make it easier? How should one prepare for their wedding day? And, what would you say is a great timeline for planning a wedding? Every answer helps future wedding planners make sure that their wedding planning goes as smoothly as possible, because they don’t want you stressed on your big day any more than you do!
Learn more about the amazing things that these Lincoln professionals are doing in order to make your day as special as possible and all the services they offer to make your day all about you!
Though planning a wedding can be stressful, Wilderness Ridge has some advice. When planning a wedding make sure to put creativity, attention to detail and communication skills, first. It’s always important to make sure that you’re being forward with what you want your wedding to look like! Remember to set a budget, pick out a few dates you prefer, find a venue, book your photographer and DJ. The hardest party of a wedding is always the budgeting, staying organized, setup and takedown and making your guest list, but Wilderness Ridge is here to help!
“We are transparent about our prices,” states Social Sales Manager Brittney Roberts. “We send you detailed list of information we need and help simplify your big decisions, and we set up the room to your satisfaction.”
It’s important to have a timeline for your wedding in order to spread everything out for the best convince. According to Wilderness Ridge, you should start planning your wedding one year in advanced with choosing of the venue being done first. Then, six months prior, you should choose catering with food tasting happening in that time with final selections being done one month before the date. Then, three months prior, linen napkins and centerpieces are selected. Finally, usually two weeks before the wedding, guess selections should be finalized.
Make a statement, host with confidence, arrive in style and have a stress free wedding with Wilderness Ridge! For further information visit wrccgolf.com or contact them at (402) 434-5118.
If you are looking for a unique and well-crafted piece of jewelry for your upcoming wedding, look no further than Sartor Hamann. They carry stunning engagement and fashion jewelry collections from top designers, exceptional diamonds and dazzling gemstones. Their friendly, high trained and certified staff is here to make sure that you find the perfect piece of jewelry to fit your special day. Head over, and you can see why they were voted Best Jewelry Store in Lincoln. Jewelry is always going to be one of the first decisions a couple makes when they’re thinking of getting married in the future, so
make that decision as easy as possible with Sartor Hamann. Shopping for an engagement ring can be difficult, but the professionals are here for you. Allow the experts at Sartor Hamann to guide you through shape and all the other engagement ring characteristics to make sure your ring is everything you dreamed it would be. Even if you’re not the one getting married, wedding jewelry is always a fantastic gift to get the newlyweds. Give them something they can cherish something for years to come at a reasonable price and given to you by the most skilled, knowledgeable professionals in Lincoln. Start the wedding season off with something to brighten up your day. An eye-catching piece of jewelry can take your special from amazing to spectacular. Sartor Hamann has been on the cutting edge of style and technology since 1905, and continues to provide customers with the highest quality jewelry available.
“At Sartor Hamann, we understand that your jewelry pieces are not just accessories; they are cherished symbols of previous moments and memories,” says Jeff Wells, General Manager.
Sartor Hamann is here for all your specific jewelry needs as it gets closer to your special day.
James Arthur Vineyards offers an exceptional location for any special occasion, including weddings! They are 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 the winery, which houses an immaculate tasting room, gift shop, a stunning party room and all the production facilities. Celebrate your special day with an outdoor ceremony at James Arthur Vineyards. The winery offers two options to make your wedding the most memorable it can be.
The first option is in the winery itself. A beautiful setting right in front of a waterfall with guests seated in each gazebo and in white resin chairs on the concrete pad directly behind the bride and groom. This make the maximum amount of guests invited will be capped at 70. This is a breathtaking venue with a scene that you can’t forget, especially when the weather is just right. The other option is the park area. James Arthur Vineyards has a park area located to the south of the winery near the vineyards and planning for the venue is much more lax in order to make sure your wedding is what you imagined it to be. This option has a cap at 200 wedding guests and can include the rental of chairs, tents and other necessities.
James Arthur Vineyards knows that choosing a venue for your wedding day can be daunting, which is why they make planning everything convenient and simple. Everything you need to know about the venue and their options is located on their website, visit jamesarthurvineyards.com to learn more or contact them at (402) 783-5255.
The wedding cake doesn’t have to be the only sweet thing at your wedding! Sometimes you can stack your dessert table so full of sweets that no one can resist indulging! Getting the best tasting and best looking sweets at your wedding just became so much easier with Sweet Things by Marcy, a locally owned bakery with the mission to make your wedding your sweetest day possible!
Sweet Things by Marcy started out as a cottage food operation from home and has expanded into a commercial production
such
peach cobbler, Kentucky butter cake and so much more! There’s so much variety in their treats, it will make your big day unforgettable. It’s worth every bite.
If you’re looking for your wedding to have an exceptional dessert experience that captures the essence of Southern culinary traditions, look no further! They take pride in using the finest ingredients, ensuring each dessert is a masterpiece of flavor and quality.
To learn more or to book them for your wedding day, visit sweetthingsbymarcy.com.
At NailPedia, their mission is to bring out the beauty in you and provide a pampering experience like no other. With a team of highly skilled and passionate professionals, they are committed to delivering quality and creativity in every nail service they offer. Immerse yourself in a welcoming ambiance, surrounded by modern décor and a friendly team that’s committed to your satisfaction. They can be your trusted source as you look for someone to make sure your nails are wedding ready.
NailPedia is dedicating to making your nails fit whatever occasion you need them for. Their gel nails are highly recommended, add on gel polish for a long-lasting and radiant shine that can last up from two to six weeks. Discover a world of nail artistry and elegance at NailPedia Salon. Their salon isn’t just about nails; it’s about creating a luxurious escape where you can just unwind and rejuvenate. It’s the perfect place for a bride who needs to relax and get ready with her perfect nail set. They are known for their wonderful service, comfortable atmosphere and their constantly welcoming attitude. The best ring deserves to be shown off with the best and most elegant set of nails. Schedule an appointment at nailpediasalon.com.
Planning your entire wedding has never been easier! You can now book the Talon Room for your entire wedding weekend to get the most out of your wedding experience. They offer a downtown Lincoln venue that offers space for the rehearsal dinner, ceremony and reception, a renovated antique bar, top-tier catering, full service event staff and exquisite venue lighting and decorations.
With the Talon Room there is going to be start to finish event management. Never feel like you’re lost or don’t know what to do with the Talon Room in control. Have your wedding at a historic venue with convenient parking and hotel options with a capacity that can sit up to 250 guests with included tables, chairs and basic linens. They set up, and you make it a wedding to remember.
Even better, the Talon Room now offers the new wedding suite! It’s the perfect room for your wedding party before and during your wedding! Get ready and stay refreshed with your own private suite. There’s a place to fix up your hair and make-up and even a dressing room! Breakfast, lunch or cocktails are available to add to maximize your experience.
For more information visit their website at talonroom.com or call them at (402) 641-0943 to reserve Lincoln’s 2024 Choice Award winner for best wedding reception facility and wedding catering. When you get married, you want everyone looking their best. That’s why Ovation Salon offers only the best hair services in Lincoln. When you’re looking for exceptional hair in Nebraska, look no further than Ovation Salon & House of Wigs. They provide a premium experience with expert, certified and licensed stylists. Ovation offers a full menu of spa services to help you relax refresh and renew all on your special day. Their experienced team provides the highest standards with quality products from the most trusted names in the beauty industry.
Make sure your hair is looking the best it has ever looked for your wedding day.
In addition to their salon services, they offer an extensive selection of wigs and hairpieces. They are happy to assist in helping make the choice for the perfect hairstyle to match with your perfect day. They give you a reason to stand up and look your best.
“Your hair is a way of expressing your personal style, and great hair is your best accessory,” says Owner John Aguirre “Ovation has the knowledge, experience and skill to give you what you want.”
To schedule an initial consultation with Ovation Salon & House of Wigs, call them today at (402) 467-4646.
Loomis
Tailored Dreams Party Buses
Rent a party bus for your wedding party! Tailored Dreams Party Buses is offering two hour wedding reservations and three hour minimum night out reservations in Lincoln, Omaha and surrounding communities. Reserve a Party Bus for either your wedding, bachelor or bachelorette party and get a discount! They also offer a military discount. In addition to this, this summer, every new inquirer will get $50 off the reservation amount! All you have to do is ask. They have many different buses to fit your wedding style and preference including:
• Oasis: 26 passenger party bus
• Odyssey: 28 passenger party bus
• Mirage: 35 passenger pink party bus
• Fantasy: 35 passenger black party bus
• Disco: 35 passenger gray party bus
• Executive: 45 passenger party bus
All of the 35 passenger party buses are wheel chair accessible! Tailored Dreams Party Buses is the perfect way to celebrate with your wedding party as you make you way from your ceremony to your reception. Though, the party buses do not cross state lines. For more information or to reserve a party bus of your own, visit their website at tailoreddreamslimousines.com, or contact them through either their email at tailoreddreamslimousines@gmail.com or call them at (402) 889-3870.
DryBar is the perfect place to get that wedding blowout look you’ve been searching for! Now, DryBar is offering private parties for you and your wedding party to get your hair done before your wedding! Do you want to have an entire DryBar to yourself? Book a small group session! Grab your girls and get your very own private experience.
DryBar is not just selling you blowouts for your wedding; they’re selling happiness and confidence so you can make sure you’re feeling your best on the happiest day of your life. At DryBar, their philosophy is simple. Focus on one thing and be the best at it. For them, it’s blowouts! Everyone that comes through their doors can expect a premier blowout experience while providing professional quality products and tools to better help their clients achieve and maintain the perfect blowout at home.
They want everyone to feel welcome, respected and including at DryBar. They are much more than just hair. They are dedicated to making you feel like you’re feeling your best while looking your best. Learn more or book a small group session drybarshops.com.
The Lincoln Firefighters Reception Hall has a dynamic entertainment space that can accommodate any style of event with any style of seating for up to 300 people. They are located within minutes of downtown Lincoln providing quick and easy access to lodging, restaurants, shopping and more. No matter what you need, their helpful and professional staff awaits your next special occasion and would be pleased to be a part of your wedding day.
Their amenities include all-day access, table/chair set up, the ability to bring in your own catering or use their long commercial kitchen,
Weddings • Receptions • Conferences • Meetings Birthdays • Anniversary Parties• Retirement Parties Celebration of Life Memorial Services Community Events • Reunions & More! firefighterhall.com • manager@firefighterhall.com (402) 477-6001 Celebrating the Community We Love One Event at a Time
a projector and screen for your personal use, bar service with staff included, centerpiece items, decorating and lighting options, a photo-booth, tables and much more! There’s no site fee for wedding receptions or wedding ceremonies and parking is included! Their space is huge and very accommodating for every wedding party’s needs. In addition to this, they have an event planner, clean up and event rentals as services available. The Lincoln Firefighter’s Reception Hall would be pleased to be a part of your wedding day.
To book the venue, you can visit their website at firefighterhall.com or call their event coordinator Debbie at (402) 477-6001 and explore the ways you can celebrate your wedding day.
Blush Bridal knowns and understands that bridal gown shopping is the most exciting parts about planning your wedding, but also one of the most nerve wracking. Not only are they here for your bridal needs, they also have any advice you could need to make sure your wedding planning goes as smoothly as possible! Owner Emmy Gorman recommends choosing a reliable and reputable vendor.
plan your next business retreat to James Arthur Vineyards!
“The Bridal Shop you chose should align with your vision, budget and timeline. The hardest part about planning a wedding is battling decision overload. Many brides feel that they need to book out three or more appointments at shops to find their wedding gown. This can lead to feeling overwhelmed and shopped out. Booking one appointment at a time helps set brides up for success. Blush Brides work one on one with an expert stylist who guides the bride and group through an unforgettable experience and curates a style specifically for that bride.”
You don’t need to have it all figured out—that’s what the stylists are here for! Experience the best wedding dress shopping experience in Lincoln at Blush Bridal and find designer wedding gowns that make you feel beautiful. Just make sure to get those dresses six to nine months in advanced.
Your first appointment at Blush Bridal begins a relationship that lasts for the better part of a year and beyond, and the stylists are determined to make it the most breezy it can be. At Blush Bridal, they believe that every bride is beautiful and deserves the most special gown shopping experience.
Blush Bridal Boutique was founded in 2012 and they’ve been helping brides find their perfect gowns ever since. To reserve an experience with a Blush stylist today, call them at (402) 261-5615 or visit blushbridalne.com.
Shannon Formal Wear is your one-stop shop for all your wedding suit needs. They offer everything from men’s tailoring, suits, tuxedos and dress shirts to ties, belts and shoes for purchase. Every piece of your attire is important when it comes to formal wear from the shoes to the tie to the hat to the belt, each piece makes a statement, and there’s no bigger day to make a statement then your wedding day! Let Shannon Formal wear put together the right outfit for you that will tell an interesting story that everyone will want to hear. Confidence is the best accessory, but wearing a great belt is always a great statement.
Andrew Shannon , from Shannon’s Formal Wear, recommends booking your wedding attire 60-90 days in advance, “The hardest part is that weddings are overwhelming and there are so many details to consider. At Shannon Formalwear we make sure that the entire wedding party feels comfortable and taken care of from the day they walk through the doors to the day of the event,” remarks Andrew, “Stay organized and keeping good communication with their wedding party and planning helps the wedding run smoothly.”
Arrive in style with a suit or tuxedo from Shannon Formal wear; they have a wide range of sizes and colors that are sure to be your new favorites. They’ll help you select the best look and fit to make you feel comfortable and 100% confident. Let them find the right fit, look and price that will make you stand out and be remembered.
To buy one of their many elegant suits to fit your special day, visit their website at shannonformalwear.com, or visit their store to choose on in person at 1630 O St.
Though wedding planning can be stressful, it’s also full of excitement. Partnering with local professionals can help your wedding journey become the best and most manageable year of your life. These local professionals, who have been helping with weddings for years, are perfect to help make your wedding planning easy.
