Strictly Business Lincoln - December 2023 by Strictly Business - Lincoln & Omaha, Nebraska

STRICTLY-BUSINESS.COM

LINCOLN • DECEMBER 2023 TM

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SHAYNE ZUTAVERN FEATURE STORIES

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REAL ESTATE AGENT SE NEBRASKA

CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS

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DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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

My Two Cents on Shopping Local for Christmas Embracing the heart of the holiday season in December, my enduring mantra, both for this month and beyond, is simple: SHOP LOCAL! As our shopping increases for Christmas, driven by our desire to find the perfect gifts for loved ones, employees and teammates, it’s all too easy to be lured by the convenience and potential cost savings offered by large online retailers. Yet, I want to highlight the importance of supporting our local community. This holiday season, let’s make a deliberate choice to support the locals and do our Christmas shopping at the small businesses right here in Lincoln. To preserve Lincoln as a vibrant and thriving community, each of us has to shop local and support the small businesses of our community, especially during the holiday season – when our support can make a meaningful difference. Showing our support means wholeheartedly embracing the act of shopping locally and throwing our unwavering support behind the small businesses that form the lifeblood of our community. When we choose to buy from these local entrepreneurs, we are not merely making transactions; we are contributing to the livelihoods of our friends and neighbors. It’s a collective effort that fosters a sense of unity, resilience and sustainability that extends beyond Christmas. In addition to promoting shopping locally for Christmas, Strictly Business wants to thank our amazing clients, readers, staff, family and friends for making 2023 a great one. The new year is almost here, making me reflect back on 2023 and all the laughs and joy it brought. Running a business has its tough moments, but what makes it

all worth it are the amazing people who have either partnered with Strictly Business for advertising or have become an important part of my life in some other way. I feel truly grateful when I look around and see these incredible individuals who have made my journey so special. I especially want to thank my staff. You guys are a great team and have made me look good by making the magazine the best it can be. Keep up the good work! As we enter 2024, I’m excited about all the new things coming my way – the good, the not-so-good, new chances and fresh challenges. I’m also looking forward to making new friends and connections, working with new clients and trying out new things. It’s going to be an interesting year, and I can’t wait to see what happens. Even though the calendar year is changing, one thing will stay the same: our desire here at Strictly Business to paint you as the expert in your industry. We are all about telling stories and building trust for you, both in our print publication and online. When you advertise with us, you’re not just running an ad; you’re joining a team that cares about local businesses and their success. We are not just here to showcase your brand; we are invested in your growth and will do everything we can to help you grow. So, as we celebrate Christmas and enter the new year, let’s do it together as a community. Gather your family and friends, your employees and coworkers, your pets, and let’s make this the best year-end yet! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! – Paige Zutavern

In addition to promoting shopping locally for Christmas, Strictly Business wants to thank our amazing clients, readers, staff, family and friends for making 2023 a great one.

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

CONTENTS

NEWS 4 Business 28 Personnel 39 Nonprofit

SPOTLIGHTS

50 Lincoln Chamber of Commerce 52 Oak Electric 54 Capital Care Staffing

COLUMNS 22 51 53 55 57

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

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

FEATURE STORIES 56 58 60 62 67 74 79

Energy Efficiency Made In Lincoln Mental Health Holiday Wrap-Up Senior Living Winter Driving Businesses and Their Pets

Strictly Business Magazine PO BOX 57397, Lincoln, NE 68505 P 402.466.3330 • F 402.466.3476 STRICTLY BUSINESS is not responsible for unsolicited material. All rights to submission, including letters, will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to our unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially or creatively, unless otherwise negotiated with the author. Nothing may be printed in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher. The publication of any advertisement in STRICTLY BUSINESS is not an endorsement of the advertiser or of the products or services advertised.

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ABOUT THE COVER

Convert Your Farmland Into Cash Let BigIron Realty bring the power of over 499,285 bidders to your farm sale.

hayne Zutavern, a Farm and Ranch Real Estate Agent for SE Nebraska, is prepared to help turn your farm land into cash. Not only is he equipped to handle land sale from start to finish, but to help you become more aware of exactly what to expect. “It’s an honor to work at BigIron Realty and help families navigate the decision to sell their farm ground and delivering the highest possible price. BigIron Realty has over 499,285 active registered bidders on our Online Auction Platform, and what that means to you is we will deliver bidders/buyer from right next door, to investors from across the state. No other local farm real estate company has that many bidders ready to bid. None. When you use a competitive auction you can expect consistent over-the-top results for your farm sale – results that you cannot get with just listing your farm. Additionally, when you use an auction, you decide the day of your sale and the day you’ll get your money.” When selling your land, take the extra time to do some research. Don’t get in a hurry to get it sold – the market is always changing, and potential buyers are always looking. One of the first steps is talking to your banker, financial advisor, lawyer, friends and then ask them, “Who is the best?” Taking their opinions into consideration, also watch your mailbox for newspapers, flyers and postcards marketing real estate services. You want someone who’s very good at marketing, because that’s a critical skill in getting your farm sold. Once you have a few farm real estate companies in mind, interview them all. Have at least three different

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

agents pitch you their company and services. By having each agent explain the services, their marketing approach and how they will help you, you will be able to determine which real estate company will deliver the best results for you and your family. Before fully committing, attend an auction event to see how everything unfolds. If you can, talk to the seller for their first-hand experience. It can also be helpful to speak to previous clients of the company you are leaning towards. Taking these extra steps can make a world of difference for your overall selling experience. On the financial side, don’t use the commission rate as your sole decision-making criteria. Most of the time, you get what you pay for. If you aren’t sure exactly what your land is worth, search online for other farms for sale in your area, watch for land sale ads in your mailbox and look up the recent selling history for land in your area. Most importantly, discuss it with the real estate agent you decide to sell with. They will have the most insight into the market. Shayne Zutavern is here to help you get the most for your land. He wants you to have a great selling experience and walk away with as much money as possible. Get your Free Broker’s Price Opinion today by emailing Shayne at shayne.zutavern@bigironrealty. com or calling him at (402) 770-1220 – a $1,750 value for FREE. Shayne is 100% invested in your success. Keep up with what’s happening on Shayne Zutavern’s Facebook page at tinyurl.com/ BigIronRealtySENEBR.

Kacey

Devan

Shae

REQUEST A FREE SUBSCRIPTION FOR YOUR BUSINESS

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

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DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS HBE LLP Recognized for Equity Leadership for Ninth Year in a Row

Nebraska Christmas Lights Show Hosted Grand Opening Night November 24

HBE LLP is pleased to announce that for the ninth consecutive year, they have been named to the Accounting MOVE Project’s 2023 Best Firms for Equity Leadership and 2023 Best Firms for Women. With women leading 44% of the firm, HBE is one of the 13 firms awarded with both honors nationwide. “Being recognized for the ninth consecutive year as one of the Best Firms for Equity Leadership and Best Firms for Women is a testament to our unwavering commitment to creating a supportive environment where all of our associates can thrive, regardless of gender, age, race or other diversity,” stated Scott Becker, Managing Partner of HBE. “Through our core values centered on integrity, respect and teamwork, we will continue to support and advance flexible leadership pathways built upon unique contributions and talents.” The MOVE methodology investigates the factors proven to be essential for career success: Money, Opportunity, Vital supports and Entrepreneurship. HBE emphasizes employment programs proven to retain mid-career women, including phased return to work for new parents, remote-work opportunities, work-life supports for busy season and coaching to help managers lead teams based on productivity, not face time. Since 2010, the Accounting MOVE Project has measured and supported the advancement of women at accounting and consulting firms. MOVE is the only annual benchmarking project that both counts and advocates for women in the profession. Firms receive benchmarking reports based on the MOVE Project. The Equity Leadership list recognizes firms that have achieved that milestone through any combination of culture, programs, initiatives and growth. Learn more at www.afwa.org/move-project. HBE is dedicated to implementing strategies that enhance the financial well-being of their clients. Working as a team of professionals, their focus is to: • Strive for excellence as a standard of performance. • Create value for clients through leadership and relationships. • Provide growth and development opportunities for all employees. • Service the community through involvement in civic and professional organizations. HBE is a leading provider of professional accounting and consulting services throughout Nebraska. Operating from multiple office locations in Lincoln, Norfolk and Omaha, the firm offers a complete range of financial management services for businesses, not-forprofit and governmental organizations, specialty industries and individuals. These services include specialized advisory, tax, audit, data analytics, business valuations, outsourced accounting and CFO solutions, personal financial planning and wealth management. For more information, including current career opportunities, please visit www.hbecpa.com.

The highly anticipated Nebraska Christmas L i g h t s S h ow h a s returned to Lincoln this holiday season, promising a spectacle of lights, music and enchanting displays that will captivate visitors of all ages. This year, in a significant development, the event has relocated to the Star City Shores, 4375 S 33rd St., offering an ideal drive-through route for attendees to enjoy the magic of the season from the comfort of their vehicles. The grand opening night for The Nebraska Christmas Lights Show was Friday, November 24. Show times will commence from 5:30 to 11 p.m. daily until January 3, 2024. Ticket pricing for this exceptional event is structured per vehicle, making it an excellent value for both large groups and families looking to create cherished memories together. Further ticket details and online reservations can be found at the official website, www. NebraskaChristmasLightsShow.com. The Nebraska Christmas Lights Show has produced a display that is nothing short of amazing. Featuring countless lights, props and computerized effects all synchronized to sound, this wondrous display also includes an appearance of Grinch, Yeti, Santa and his elves for vehicle onlookers. For more information, visit NebraskaChristmasLightsShow.com.

It’s Not What You Know, It’s Who You Know and Who Knows You! At Strictly Business, we strive to recognize local professionals for their significant awards, promotions, achievements and/or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Lincoln community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330, email office@strictlybusinessomaha.com or submit your news at strictly-business.com. 4 Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

Hamilton Information Systems Expands to Lincoln Businesses Hamilton Information Systems is excited to announce they have expanded their full suite of IT service offerings to Lincoln area businesses. Hamilton has provided IT and cybersecurity solutions for businesses across Nebraska for over 40 years. This expansion allows businesses in Lincoln access to the highest level of security and Managed IT service solutions, as well as all of the company’s professional business technology services including cybersecurity, business phone systems, door access control, security cameras, network cabling, Managed IT and data center services. With a full team of trusted, expert IT technicians, Hamilton prides itself on delivering high-quality, professional solutions that are second to none. In August, Hamilton hired Chris Clymer, a resident of Lincoln, as the new business development and sales representative covering the Lincoln area. Before joining Hamilton, Chris worked selling to and supporting Managed IT clients in the Lincoln market and is excited to now be able to offer Hamilton's additional technology solutions to Lincoln customers. Hamilton Information Systems is a division of Hamilton Telecommunications, a diversified technology and telecommunications provider based in Aurora, NE. Founded in 1901, Hamilton encompasses nine primary company divisions that allow Hamilton to operate on a local, regional and national basis. To learn more about Hamilton and business IT services, visit www.HamiltonISBusiness.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Hallmark Homecare Expands to Nebraska Hallmark Homecare, Inc. is proud to announce its recent expansion to Omaha. The newest office of this rapidly growing recruiting and matc hmaking ser vice for senior clients with caregivers will be o p e r a t e d by S h a n e Neuharth, who has recently joined Hallmark Homecare as a Franchise Partner. In addition, Taylor Bopes has joined as Director of Operations and brings extensive experience in the Senior Care Segment. Also joining the group is Johanna Hernandez, who will head up recruiting efforts. Many seniors seeking in-home care are struggling to find affordable, reliable, quality services in order to stay independent at home. With improvements in technology, access to resources and a new cultural mindset, Hallmark Homecare’s consumer-directed model makes it more advantageous in many cases to cut out the agency “middleman” and hire independent caregivers directly. “Our client-directed model of care is becoming increasingly necessary for many due to the escalating cost of in-home care,” states Shane Neuharth. “I am proud to join Hallmark Homecare and provide my community with a powerful option, one in which families can meet and select their perfect independent caregivers to provide services for their loved one. They can remain at home where they want to be at more affordable rates.” To contact your local Hallmark Homecare office, call (402) 289-8200 or email sneuharth@hallmarkhomecare.com. More information on the company is available at hallmarkhomecare.com/116.

Lincoln Stars Announce Upcoming Promotions The Lincoln Stars are thrilled to announce the upcoming promotions for the 2023-24 hockey season. You can view the complete 2023-24 promotional schedule and ticket packs at www.lincolnstars.com. The promotional schedule for December and January includes the following:

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• December 8: $2 night • December 15: teddy bear toss • January 5: buddy pass night • January 13: Star Wars night • January 20: princess night The tickets packs for December and January include the following: • December Weekend Package for December 8, 9 and 10: three games for the price of two | $34 + fees • Star Wars Night Pack for January 13: four tickets and two light wands | $75 + fees • Princess Night Pack January 20: four tickets and two princess souvenirs | $75 + fees Lincoln Stars hockey is a fun environment to bring your family, friends and coworkers. Bringing a group to a Lincoln Stars game allows you to bond outside of the workplace, take part in intermission games, be seen on the video board and cheer loud for the Lincoln Stars. To learn more about the Lincoln Stars, visit www.linconstars.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS NEWS Husker Rehab Announces New Service: Blood Flow Restriction Therapy

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Husker Rehab’s therapists utilize Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) as a complementary approach to traditional rehabilitation. BFR is integrated into a patient’s individualized rehabilitation plan for both upper and lower extremity ailments. Their therapist’s precise application of BFR combines low load strength training with traditional range of motion exercises to improve patient outcomes and reduce recovery times. BFR therapy, also known as occlusion training, is a rehabilitation technique that involves the use of a tourniquet or specialized cuffs to partially restrict blood flow to a specific muscle or limb during exercise. This method is increasingly being used in physical therapy and rehabilitation settings to aid in recovery of postoperative patients, injured athletes and deconditioned individuals unable to tolerate heavy loads. Benefits of BFR include: enhanced muscle growth and strength, reduced muscle atrophy, improved endurance, pain reduction, faster rehabilitation and the preservation of joint health. To learn more about this new treatment option, call the south location of Husker Rehab at (402) 261-4739. Husker Rehab proudly offers therapy services in five clinics in four different Nebraska cities, where they serve physicians and their patients with unique, highly-intensive, highly-customized rehabilitation, wellness and preventative care therapies that make a difference in people’s lives. They listen to every patient’s needs and desires, analyze the problem and figure out ways to get people moving again. For more information about Husker Rehab and their services, visit huskerrehab.com.

New DRIVETHRU Vet Opens in Lincoln

Join us for Santa Saturdays at West Gate Bank®

Visit Santa at West Gate Bank Center (6003 Old Cheney Road) from 9am-11:30am on these Saturdays in December: Saturday, December 9 Saturday, December 16 This event is free. We are accepting gift donations for the People’s City Mission. Please feel free to bring your camera to get pictures.

westgate.bank | 402.434.3456

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

Attention pet owners! There’s a NEW way to go to the vet! DRIVETHRU Vet at Driftwood is pleased to announce the opening of the first of its kind – a full-service, 100% DRIVETHRU veterinary clinic! No waiting rooms, no front desk – and no need to get out of your car! This no-hassle way to go to the vet is ideal for senior citizens, families with small children, multi-pet households and people on the go. Owners simply pull their car into one of the exam room bays and let the professional DRIVETHRU VET team do the rest! An official ribbon-cutting took place this summer, complete with representatives from Chief Construction, a special message from Husker volleyball coach John Cook and longtime client and 10/11 News Anchor Taryn Vanderford. Owned Dr. Tony Moravec, DRIVETHRU VET at Driftwood includes staff veterinarians Dr. Amanda Sherck and Dr. Rachelle Fisher. They pride themselves in super sudden service and compassionate care – and do their best to provide same-day service. DRIVETHRU VET at Driftwood is located on 20 acres at 100 McKelvie Road just northwest of Lincoln, or one mile north of Fallbrook. Boarding, grooming and training is provided next door at Driftwood Pet Resort & Spaw, along with outdoor fun at the Dog Prairie Private Dog Park. For more information, go to drivethruvet.com or call (402) 435-3003. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Ashley Freese Agency of American Family Insurance Sponsors Tails & Treats Trunk or Treat Event The Capital Humane Society Hosted a Tails & Treats Trunk or Treat Event at CHS’s Pieloch Adoption Center at 70th and Hwy 2 on October 14. Ashley Freese Agency of American Family Insurance was thrilled to be one of the companies that sponsored the event. Helping dogs, cats and other furry friends find their furever homes is a passion of Ashley’s. Ashley Freese Agency of American Family Insurance had a booth set up that allowed kids to paint their own pumpkin or color a spooky Halloween coloring page – and of course, get some candy! They had treats for the cute pets that came too. Ashley Freese Agency of American Family Insurance also donated a family pack of tickets to Roca Berry Farm to the winner of the Pet Halloween Costume, in which each sponsor voted for the best dressed dog Halloween costume at the end of the event. All proceeds went towards helping these sweet pets find furever homes. You can expect honesty, exceptional customer service, quality coverage and a warm smile when you work with Ashley Freese Agency of American Family Insurance! As an American Family insurance agent, she is able to educate and recommend coverages to individuals and families for your unique needs. Learn more at www. amfam.com/agents/nebraska/lincoln/ashley-freese or by contacting Ashely at afreese@amfam.com / (402) 441-9227.

Award Winning with ALLO ALLO is excited to announce they have been voted the Best Internet Provider and Best Company to Work For in the Best of Lincoln survey. Since 2003, ALLO has set out to deliver a different experience, so residents and businesses could do more without the hassle, and Lincoln has noticed. It starts with world-class technology and the connection continues with exceptional 24/7 support from a business that is rooted in your community. From small business to big business and everything in between, ALLO provides an award-winning technology that works for your business starting with fiber data, fiber voice and fiber TV. For the fourth year in a row, ALLO has been voted Lincoln’s Best Internet Provider in the Best of Lincoln competition. ALLO’s 100% fiber-optic network delivers the speed, reliability and 24/7 support your business needs to move forward in a quickly changing world. ALLO specializes in providing world-class communications and entertainment services by creating and operating gigabit communities. Currently serving over 35 communities in Nebraska, Colorado and Arizona, ALLO is supported by more than 1,300 team members. To learn more about ALLO’s award winning internet service visit AlloFiber.com or give their team a call at (402) 480-6500. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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lincoln stars hockey promotional schedule

dec 8 dec 15 jan 5 jan 13 jan 20 feb 3 feb 9 feb 16 feb 18 mar 1 mar 27 mar 30 apr 5 apr 6 apr 12

$2 night teddy bear toss buddy pass night star wars night princess night battle of the decades epilepsy night aubri brown club night undie sunday hockey ﬁghts cancer and $2 night stem day game down syndrome awareness night ﬀa/ag night billet appreciation fandemonium and buddy pass night

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BUSINESS NEWS

INTERIORS & CABINETS

Mapes Industries Unifies Divisions Under New Leadership Family owned and operated for 71 years, Mapes Industries has long been a staple of the Lincoln manufacturing community. Mapes manufactures their Canopy and Panel products for distribution to different segments of the commercial construction industry. The initial intent of the independent operation, separate management of teams and minimal synergy or contact between divisions was to ensure that each division was focused on serving their respective segments of the commercial construction industry. However, upon Marilyn Cintani stepping into the role of CEO, it came to be realized that the company could improve from corporate unity and a teambased approach. This required a reorganization of leadership and a cultural reset. Sharing her vision of a unified Mapes Industries, a new management team was appointed in 2023: Marilyn Cintani, CEO/Chairperson; Matthew Parde, President; Ryan King, Vice President of Corporate Operations; Alex Roschewski, Vice President of Panel Operations; Spencer Sawtelle, Vice President of Canopy Operations; Kendall Frantz, Vice President of Sales and Business Development. This new team has been working closely with one another over the past year and will oversee the next phase of growth and prosperity for Mapes Industries. Under Marilyn’s leadership, the company is stronger than ever with both divisions breaking or nearing sales records in 2023 and showing strength headed into 2024. To learn more about Mapes Industries, visit mapes.com, email panels@mapes.com / canopy@mapes.com or call (888) 273-1132.

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First National Bank of Omaha Awards $1,738,000 in Impact Grants First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) has awarded a total of $1,738,000 in Impact Grants to 90 organizations in Nebraska, Iowa, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, South Dakota, Wyoming and Texas, announced Whitney Baker, Director of Philanthropy and Giving. The grants support programs dedicated to workforce development and entrepreneurship; affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization; and adult education, financial literacy and security. "FNBO recognizes that investments in workforce development, education, affordable housing and financial literacy have returns that far outlast a one-time donation,” said Baker. “Through this grant program, our goal is to find community partners working in these areas that not only impact individual lives, but build stronger and more financially successful communities.” FNBO has transitioned from two grant cycles per year to one combined cycle. This total represents the largest one-year grant amount ever awarded by FNBO. $975,000 was given across 44 organizations in Nebraska, including Community Development Resources in Lincoln, Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln and NeighborWorks Lincoln. A full list of grant recipients and dollars awarded to each organization can be found at www.fnbo.com/impactgrants2023. First National Bank of Omaha is a subsidiary of First National of Nebraska, Inc. (FNNI). Founded in 1857, FNBO has maintained its commitment to helping build strong communities for more than 165 years. Learn more at FNBO.com and connect with them on Facebook, X and Instagram. Member FDIC. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

DROP-N-GO CATERING Our variety is perfect for any size gathering. From holiday parties to graduations, office staff, meetings, employee parties, or friends. We have multiple options and packages to fit your needs and budget. For a full menu go to davincis.com and click on Catering. You can even order online!

• Gourmet Pizza Packages • Baked Pasta Packages • Box Lunches & Hoagie Platters • Garden Salad, Cookies, & More! For more information contact Krista: catering@davincis.com | 402.434.3300

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DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS Gene Haas Foundation Awards $15K to SCC’s Precision Machining Program

Lincoln Coin & Bullion Celebrates Four Years under New Ownership

Southeast Community College (SCC) received $15,000 from the Gene Haas Foundation on Monday, October 30, to fund scholarships as well as pay for students to enter and travel to skills competitions such as SkillsUSA in manufacturing and machining. “We appreciate the continued support and generosity of the Gene Haas Foundation,” said Kirby Taylor, Precision Machining and Automation Technology Program Chair. “We want the number one priority of our students to be learning a skill, not figuring out how to pay for it. This helps offset the financial burden our students feel with the cost of school and entering skills competitions.” Since 2015, the Precision Machining and Automation Technology program at SCC has received annual grants totaling $102,000 from the Gene Haas Foundation. The Foundation’s primary goal is to build skills in the manufacturing industry by providing scholarships for Computer Numeric Control technology students. Haas is the Owner of Haas Automation Inc., America’s leading builder of CNC machines, which he started in 1983. Haas also owns multiple NASCAR teams. For more information about the program, visit www.southeast. edu/academics/programs/precision-machining-and-automationtechnology/index.php. SCC plays a vital role for our communities in southeast Nebraska by bridging the higher education affordability gap and filling a need for a qualified workforce in Nebraska. Learn more at www. southeast.edu.

On November 1, Lincoln Coin & Bullion celebrated their four-yearanniversary under the ownership of Pat and Jennifer Moran. Over the past four years, they have continued their growth as a full-scale precious metal bullion dealer that serves those purchasing and selling three- to seven-figures of gold, silver, platinum and palladium bullion along with historic currency collections (numismatic coins and bills). Lincoln Coin & Bullion has seen consistent growth over the past four years serving their clientele in Lincoln, the state of Nebraska and in the Midwest. Along with that growth, they have continued to refine their focus on not being your “typical” coin/bullion shop by bringing their customers a private and secure transaction process through an “appointment only” model, providing first-rate, on-hand inventory, and by placing a high priority on informing their clientele throughout their purchasing experience. As 2023 comes to an end, many people are experiencing great uncertainty with the economy and political climate. Because of that, Lincoln Coin & Bullion is seeing a high interest in new and existing clients purchasing gold and silver to protect their hard-earned money and preserve their future purchasing power. For more information on how precious metals can provide security for you and your family, please contact Pat and his team at (402) 327-2853. For more information about Lincoln Coin & Bullion, visit LincolnCoinandBullion.com.

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Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

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BUSINESS NEWS The Refuge at Landmark Nursery & Landscaping Welcomes New Inventory for Holiday Season The roots of Landmark Nursery & Landscaping run deep in providing the best possible experience for customers, and this holds true at The Refuge where they dedicate their time to give you a personalized and intimate experience. The Refuge at Landmark Nursery & Landscaping is always on the hunt for new inventory. Each item on display is handmade and unique, making The Refuge the perfect destination for carefully curated gifts, pottery, home decor and so much more. This holiday season, explore their wide variety of products to find the perfect gift. Regardless of who you are searching for, their experienced taste-makers will guide you in seeking refuge from the mundane. The store offers an extensive range of offerings, including home decor, patio furniture, pottery, fair trade artisan wares, gardening tools, candles, wind chimes, birdbaths, planters, seasonal gifts and showcases artists across the U.S. and abroad. Because their inventory is always evolving and rotating, you are sure to get something unique and one-of-a-kind. Don’t miss out! To learn more about The Refuge at Landmark Nursery & Landscaping or browse their inventory, visit www.therefugeatlandmark.com.

HBAL Raises Over $5.7K at Annual Sporting Clay Shoot The Home Builders Association of Lincoln’s annual Sporting Clay S h o o t wa s h e l d o n October 20 at Oak Creek Sporting Club. The event raised over $5,700 for the Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation. Top Individual Shooters • First Place: Hank McVeigh • Second Place (tie): Simon Wells and Eric Whitefoot Top Teams • Frist Flight: Murphy Tractor – Kirk Bender, Ken McVeigh, Sean McVeigh, Hank McVeigh, Chris Woods • Second Flight: Lincoln Winair – Nate Harper, Dave Hochstetler, Jory Heis, Josh Hergenrader, Ross Brom • Third Flight: Lynch Contracting – Chris Lynch, Mike Bradley, Chad Wiles, Joe Brabec 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 industryrelated educational and research programs. Since 2010, the Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation has distributed over $340,000 through community projects and scholarships. For more information about the Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL), visit www.hbal.org or call (402) 423-4225. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS Associates in Counseling & Treatment Relocates to New Building Associates in Counseling & Treatment relocated to a new building at 5600 P St. on October 1. This move offers them more space and availability to help individuals with mental health, substance use, domestic violence and gambling issues. At their new building, they also added new providers to accommodate the needs for all services. Associates in Counseling & Treatment provides a confidential, safe and supportive environment. All employees are thoroughly screened for suitability to ensure they can attend to your needs in the most understanding and efficient manner possible. They take care in creating a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere in their waiting area for everyone, so you will always feel at ease. They understand that entering into counseling takes great courage, and they applaud you for taking a step toward a better future. You will always find compassion, empathy and understanding at their facility. Associates in Counseling & Treatment provides specialized counseling services for individuals and families in Lincoln and the surrounding counties. Programs include substance use, gambling addiction, mental health counseling, anger management and domestic violence. They will help you find effective ways to resolve personal issues, develop coping strategies and problem-solving skills and to help you be able to see the world in a new and brighter light. For more information, contact information@actnebraska.org or go to actnebraska.org.

Nebraska Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminars Launches Downsizers Club in January 2024

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Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

Nebraska Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminars is excited to announce the launch of the Downsizers Club, a new initiative designed to provide valuable tips, encouragement, ideas and a structured plan for decluttering and downsizing. Whether you’re preparing for a move or simply looking to simplify your life by tackling excess possessions, the Downsizers Club is here to support you on your journey. Starting in January 2024, the Downsizers Club will offer a welcoming and supportive community for anyone looking to downsize and declutter their homes. Nebraska Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminars is thrilled to announce their upcoming seminar topics for December 2023 and January 2024, held December 6 and January 3. The December seminar topic is: “Wills, Trust and Probate, Oh My!” and the January topic is “Squeezing the Most Out of Life as We Age.” These empowering events are held on the first Wednesday of each month at the renowned Venue Suite One-Eleven, located within the Clocktower Shopping Center at 6891 A St. #111 in Lincoln. Registration starts at 9:30 a.m. and the seminars start at 10 a.m. Nebraska Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminars aims to empower seniors to lead their lives with confidence and purpose, and the Downsizers Club is an extension of that commitment. For more information about the Downsizers Club and its upcoming meetings, please contact Alicia Chrastil at (402) 499-8147 or NeSavvySeniors@gmail.com. More information about Nebraska Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminars can be found at www. NeSavvySeniors.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Lutz to Host Year-End Tax Update Webinar December 13 Lutz is hosting a complimentary webinar on year-end tax updates on December 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. In this presentation, Lutz experts Dan Sweeney and Leslie Masek will cover any changes to the current tax law and provide general year-end planning ideas. You’ll also learn how to take advantage of available tax credits and deductions for your 2023 tax returns. This intermediate seminar will cover the following: • Overview of Tax Law Updates • Year-End Planning Strategies • Tax Credit/Deduction Opportunities • New Green Energy Tax Benefits for Individuals and Businesses Lutz is a business solutions firm for people seeking a partner to help energize and heighten economic and organizational success. Their experienced team provides accounting, financial, talent, M&A and technology services. They work to simplify complexities, help make critical business decisions and focus on the things that are truly important to you. Lutz embraces your business as their own to spark the right solutions and help you thrive. That’s their promise: to mind what matters. Learn more at www.lutz.us.

Tobacco Free Lancaster County Celebrates 20 Years of the Nebraska Tobacco Quitline Tobacco Free Lancaster County is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Nebraska Tobacco Quitline. A cornerstone of public health, the Nebraska Tobacco Quitline offers free, confidential support to quit tobacco. Available 24/7 and in over 200 languages, the Nebraska Tobacco Quitline provides accessibility to anyone seeking support on their quit journey. With a wide array of support options, including one-on-one coac hing, educational resources and assistance in acquiring quit medications such as the gum, patch or lozenge, the Nebraska Tobacco Quitline has equipped thousands with the effective tools to quit tobacco for good. To mark this milestone, the Nebraska Tobacco Quitline is broadening its reach by introducing a new text-based coaching service tailored to youth 18 and younger. Youth can now text “Start My Quit” to 36072 to access personalized support and resources for their journey towards a tobacco-free life. The program offers education, quit planning and progress tracking, along with access to a live coach for one-on-one coaching – all provided 100% through text messaging. Tobacco Free Lancaster County commends the Nebraska Tobacco Quitline's enduring dedication to better health and celebrates the expanded services to further support youth in our community to live tobacco-free. Funding for Tobacco Free Lancaster County is 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, go to tobaccofreelancastercounty. org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS NEWS Nebraska Innovation Campus Named Outstanding Research Park Nebraska Innovation C a m p u s ( N I C ) wa s named Outstanding Research Park at the Association of University Research Parks’ (AURP) 2023 Inter national Conference held October 16-19 at the University of Delaware’s STAR Campus. AURP is the leading nonprofit organization representing research parks, innovation districts, tech hubs and all communities of innovation. The Outstanding Research Park Award recognizes research parks and innovation districts and their leadership for their achievements and encourages continuous evaluation and development of best practices for the research park community. The award also highlights research parks and innovation districts which have created an exceptional ecosystem that supports bringing technology from inception to market, thereby positively impacting the sustainable growth of scalable businesses, creation of jobs that are higher paying than the regional average and contribute to the economic health of the region where they are located. “We are deeply honored that AURP selected Nebraska Innovation Campus for this distinguished award,” said Kate Engel, NIC’s Interim Executive Director. “NIC’s exceptional ecosystem is driven by 10+ years of impactful partnerships, collaborations and developments. We are grateful to all who have been involved, and those who continue to support and encourage our robust environment for innovation, entrepreneurship and commercialization activities.” Nebraska Innovation Campus is designed to facilitate new and indepth partnerships between the University of Nebraska and private sector businesses. NIC is adjacent to the University of Nebraska– Lincoln and strategically provides organizations with access to needed research faculty, facilities and students. For additional information, visit INNOVATE.UNL.EDU.

John Henry's Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical Launches Omaha Location

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Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

John Henry's Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical is very excited to announce the launch of their Omaha location. John Henry’s has been Lincoln’s number one trusted HVAC, plumbing and electrical provider for over 25 years, and they are proud to now be able to offer their HVAC and plumbing services to the Omaha community. You’ll always be the first priority when you go to John Henry’s for service. Since opening, their work ethic and dedication to their customers has ensured that you always receive the best value and service for your money. Established in 1996, John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical is a full-service plumbing, heating, air conditioning, air quality, duct cleaning, water treatment, excavation and electrical business. They have a committee set aside to ensure they are doing all they can for the community around us. For more information or to discuss your home’s plumbing, heating, cooling and indoor air-quality needs, visit jhlincoln.com, call (402) 435-5555 or email info@jhlincoln.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Lincoln Airport Celebrates a Memorable Summer of 2023 Outdoor Movie Events

Lincoln Demolition & Excavation Now Offering Pool Demolition and Backfill Services

The Lincoln Airport is delighted to share the tremendous success of the Outdoor Movie Events that unfolded throughout the summer and fall of 2023. These monthly events, taking place on select Fridays from May to November, have been an incredible source of joy for the Lincoln community. Succeeding over 11,000 attendees throughout the past six months, the Outdoor Movie Events have truly become a cornerstone of community entertainment. This year, they saw record-breaking attendance numbers, cementing these movie nights as a beloved tradition for Lincoln residents of all ages. One of the key factors contributing to the success of these events has been the inclusion of special activities and attractions, turning each movie night into its own, unique experience. Attendees have had the chance to enjoy an exotic car show, showcase their dance moves, savor cultural performances, explore a real service hangar with guided tours and even participate in a costume contest celebrating Halloween. The airport's Outdoor Movie Events would not have been possible without the unwavering support of local sponsors. Their dedication and commitment to the Lincoln community have allowed them to keep these events open to the public with FREE admission. The Lincoln Airport extends its heartfelt thanks to all who have made these movie nights a resounding success and look forward to planning their 2024 season. For more information about the Lincoln Airport, owned and operated by the Lincoln Airport Authority, visit lincolnairport.com or call (402) 458-2480.

Lincoln Demolition & Excavation is thrilled to be able to offer pool demolition and backfill services all year. Winter is a great time to have a pool removed and backfilled, after the seasonal shut down of the pool has been completed! Having your pool removed can be beneficial for many reasons: • Cost savings: An in-ground pool needs a new pool liner every five to 10 years, and can cost upwards of $10,000 to replace each time. Additionally, the seasonal upkeep/ maintenance cost can cost anywhere between $2,000 and $3,000 per season. So, the cost of upkeep on that in-ground pool would meet or exceed $30,000 every 10 years of ownership! Lincoln Demolition & Excavation’s cost to demolish most in-ground pools is below this cost, and only needs to be done once! • More room for pets, entertainment and enjoyment of space year round: Pools severely limit available space for children and pets to run and play, as well as the amount of space to entertain friends and family. • Safety: Lincoln Demolition & Excavation has customers that have safety concerns about their young children and pets being near pools after they’ve moved into a house that has a pool on the property. Learn more about Lincoln Demolition and Excavation by visiting www. LincolnDemoAndEx.com or calling (402) 867-6152.

Choices Treatment Center Joins 2023 Gift Responsibly Campaign Choices Treatment Center recently announced its commitment as a participant of the 2023 Gift Responsibly Campaign, joining lotteries and community organizations across North America and around the world to raise awareness about the risks of underage lottery use. The campaign is organized by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the International Center for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University. Research shows that the earlier a person’s participation or exposure to gambling is in childhood, the more likely they are to develop a gambling problem later in life. Gambling exposure during childhood is often through some kind of lottery product, such as lottery tickets or scratch offs. Often these items are given to a child by an adult who is unaware of the associated risks. Choices Treatment Center has signed on to the 2023 Gift Responsibly Campaign as an organizational participant. Throughout November, Choices worked to promote awareness about the risks of underage lottery use by using social media, public speaking opportunities, media engagement as well education amongst their clients. They will continue to promote awareness during December. Choices Treatment Center is an outpatient treatment and recovery facility committed to helping individuals overcome problems related to gambling, substance abuse and mental health. Visit www. choicestreatmentcenter.net for more information. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Altitude Motion Media Receives the Partner of the Year Award Altitude Motion Media was honored to receive Partner of the Year award at the Lincoln RP Gala event on October 13. The event was hosted by Lincoln Real Producers. Attendees included the top 300 Realtors in Lincoln as well as business partners. The awards were voted on at the event by the attendees, and Altitude Motion Media was among five other amazing partners up for the nomination. “Many amazing companies were nominated, which was an honor on its own, but being selected to win the award really was meaningful. We have won other awards before, but this one represents what the people we spend the most time with think of us. Knowing that you guys care about what we do and the service we provide really means something to me and I am so grateful to work with you all,” shared Founder Ryan Lindbeck. Altitude Motion Media is a full-service media company that consistently provides the highest quality video production, podcasts, photography and drone services. Their services increase your potential to succeed by producing content that stands out while building on your brand and reputation. For more information, go to www.altitudemotion.com or contact Altitude Motion Media at (402) 417-0678 / team@altitudemotion.com. DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business 15

BUSINESS NEWS Sun Valley Lanes & Games Announces Holiday Hours and Rates Sun Valley Lanes & Games is excited to announce hours and rates for the upcoming holiday season. During the holiday season, Sun Valley Lanes & Games will be open on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day and every day in-between, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy their favorite entertainment activities with their friends and family. "Our team at Sun Valley Lanes & Games is dedicated to spreading holiday cheer and creating memorable experiences for our valued guests. We understand the importance of quality time with family and friends during the holiday season, which is why we have chosen to remain open on these special days," said Brian Kleinknecht, Operations Manager for Sun Valley Lanes & Games. "We invite everyone to join us in celebrating this magical time of year with fun, laughter and family friendly activities." Sun Valley Lanes & Games offers a variety of attractions for guests of all ages. In addition to the 32 bowling lanes, each of which are equipped with Hyberbowling, the facility includes an arcade with prize redemption store, laser tag, Lucky Putt indoor mini-golf, three sand volleyball courts, an outdoor greenspace with a patio, fire pits and cornhole as well as a full bar and grill. For more information about Sun Valley Lanes & Games, including holiday hours and rates, please visit www.sunvalleylanes.com.

Luxury Landscape Participates in Winter and Spring Garden Shows Every year, Luxury Landscape participates in two home and garden shows – one in the later winter and one in early spring. Each year, they design a different theme and display from the last year. They have done mountainous and tropical themes, and even had an “enchanted garden” before! They love mixing it up to give the attendees something new to enjoy. Plus, the crew loves a new challenge and enjoys helping with the design of the next year's theme. There are several reasons why Luxury Landscape chooses a different theme for each year, even when it isn’t necessary. One is to show their versatility on the many different types of landscapes they complete. It also helps customers to envision what their backyard space could look like. It keeps it interesting and fun! Stay tuned for this next year's display; it's going to be a good one! Luxury Landscape offers an array of services for outdoor spaces, with their most popular being installation, design and consultation, landscape maintenance and residential snow removal. The company began with Ken and Jackie Svoboda’s passion for creating unique and creative landscapes, using their 40+ years of landscape experience and offering it to their clients. For more information about Luxury Landscape and the services they provide, visit luxurylandscape-llc.com.

Happy Holidays from Oak Electric!

402-440-5969 | www.oakelectriccompany.com 16

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

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BUSINESS NEWS True North Technologies Hosting New Year, New App Giveaway True North Tec hnologies is giving away a FREE APP to be announced on New Year’s Day. This is open to any business, excluding marketing agencies/ marketing affiliated companies. The giveaway will run until December 27. You can sign up for the giveaway at go-tnt.com/ new-year-new-app. This custom app, valued at $6,800, is a steal! Additionally, it gives your business access to a dedicated team and management training. This exceptional opportunity not only empowers your business with cutting-edge technology, but also equips your team with the skills and knowledge necessary to maximize its potential. Benefits of a new app include the chance to: • Build a stronger brand • Connect with customers better • Provide value to customers • Improve customer engagement • Personalize a marketing channel • Improve customer interactions • Capitalize on a niche True North Technologies provides convenient marketing solutions like custom website and mobile app development, branding, SEO and digital advertising. Visit www.go-tnt.com or call (402) 420-5101 to learn more.

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Edible Arrangements Gearing Up for Holidays Edible Arrangements is excited to be offering all kinds of fruit arrangements and platters for the holidays! They are offering a 20% off discount and free deliveries. Check them out at 22 N 66th St. Edible Arrangements specializes in creating and delivering fresh fruit boquetes and other edible gifts. These arrangements typically consist of a variety of fruits, such as strawberries, pineapples, melons and grapes that are cut into various shapes and arranged on skewers or in decorative containers. They often incorporate chocolate-covered fruit and other sweet treats as well. The company offers a wide range of fruit arrangements for various occasions, including birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and corporate events. Edible Arrangements has become popular as a gift option for those looking for a healthy and visually appealing alternative to traditional floral bouquets. Edible Arrangements is the leading purveyor of delicious, high quality, artistically designed, fresh fruit arrangements that are practical and healthy gifts and centerpieces for everyday occasions and events. Whether you need an elegant centerpiece, a quick gift or a delicious appetizer, Edible Arrangements® fresh-fruit arrangements are the perfect gift. For more information about Edible Arrangements, please contact (402) 500-6323 / ne1759@edible.com. You can also find more information at ediblearrangements.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

BUSINESS NEWS Signal of Lincoln under New Ownership Signal of Lincoln, a franchise offering security patrol ser vices, transferred ownership on August 1 to Logan Merrick. The franchise has been in Lincoln for eight years, and Logan is excited for Signal of Lincoln to continue to be a world-class and industry-leading company providing security officers for residential, commercial, retail and industrial customers in the Lincoln, Beatrice, York and Ashland areas. One of Signal of Lincoln’s core values is development. They strive to help their team members excel with the company and in life. Signal of Lincoln focuses on hiring great people and developing them to take on whatever the next step in their journey is, whether it be the officer to owner program that Signal offers or if it is a different career path altogether. Signal of Lincoln is one location of a worldwide company dedicated to site security and nightly roving patrol. Signal has become a pioneer in the security industry. Merging technological innovation, professionalism and attention to detail into a one-of-a-kind suite of services, Signal of Lincoln has built a reputation on the value and safety they deliver to their clients every day. For more information, visit teamsignal.com or contact Owner Logan Merrick at lmerrick@ teamsignals.com / (402) 413-6411.

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

Legacy Retirement Communities Recaps Annual Employee Appreciation Party Every year, Legacy Retirement Communities celebrates their employees with an Employee Appreciation Party. This year, the event was held at Embassy Suites in Downtown Lincoln on November 9. There were caricature artists, roaming magicians and more to add to the fun. At these events, employees are celebrated for their milestone anniversaries. In 2023, 22 employees celebrated five years with the company, four employees celebrated 10 years, three employees celebrated 15 years, three employees celebrated 20 years and three employees celebrated their 25th anniversary with Legacy. Founded in 1995, Legacy Retirement Communities have been distinguished as leaders in their industry and have earned numerous local and national awards for their elegant assisted and independent living retirement communities as well as their world-class service and programming. Legacy Retirement Communities continues to provide 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 exclusively at Legacy Arbors at 3777 N 58th St. Learn more at www.LegacyRetirement.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS Unveiling 2024 BBB Awards Programming: Center Sphere’s Network-Wide Ugly Celebrating Integrity, Trust and the Future Sweater Party Scheduled for December 7 Are you eager to vie for accolades that don't hinge on profitability or popularity? Look no further! The 2024 BBB Awards Program is now open for applications, dedicated to fostering trust in the marketplace. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is accepting applications for the 2024 BBB Student of Integrity Scholarships, 2024 BBB Spark Awards and 2024 BBB Torch Awards for Ethics. As a friendly reminder, BBB Awards programming encompasses three distinguished categories: • BBB Torch Awards for Ethics: Honor businesses and nonprofits that put integrity into action. • BBB Spark Awards: Honor new business owners under 45 who prioritize ethical decision-making. • BBB Student of Integrity Scholarships: Honor high school seniors who exemplify values, leadership and integrity. Applications are being accepted from now until April 5, offering ample time for contenders to throw their hats in the ring. The best part? All award submissions are completely free, and there's no requirement for businesses to be BBB Accredited in order to be eligible. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a community that values integrity and trust within the marketplace. Apply for 2024 BBB Awards today and let your commitment to these virtues shine! BBB is a nonprofit, business-supported organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. BBB services to consumers are free. Visit BBBinc.org for more information.

Sally's Select Boutique Offering Promotion During December Fo r t h e e n t i r e m o n t h o f December, thrifters are invited to stop by for a FREE Coffee in Sally’s Basement Vault. What a great way to browse for all your Holiday needs/wants. Whether it’s new or pre-loved Husker gear, classic vinyl, hip and stylish vintage wear, jewelry, quality furniture or just about anything, Sally’s Select Boutique probably has it.

Center Sphere Lincoln’s Annual NetworkWide Ugly Sweater Party is being hosted by Murray Custom Homes at 11633 Pioneers Blvd, Walton, NE 68461 on December 7 from 5 to 7 p.m. Join Center Sphere for beverages, prizes and more! Center Sphere also offers thanks to Home Federal Bank & The Friday Morning Club chapter for hosting a great NetworkWide tailgate party.They provided beverages, appetizers and all the awesome prizes – having some of the best giveaways ever! The bags/corn hole game was fun and everyone had a great time networking. Center Sphere hosts a wide array of networking events to help members expand their professional network and grow their businesses. Their mission is to provide a platform centered on authentic relationships that ultimately builds trust and increases opportunity. Each month, the Center Sphere hosts events such as Coffee & Connections, Social Hour and Meet the Network, with the vision to be a catalyst for growth for individuals, businesses and nonprofits within our community. Center Sphere is an established network of business professionals whose mission is to share referrals, ideas and resources through genuine relationships. For more information about Center Sphere or to inquire about attending a complimentary meeting or event, visit www.CenterSphere.com or connect with Director of Membership Ashley Hinze at Ashley@CenterSphere.com/ (402) 690-4434.

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Sally’s Select recently opened a new location in Lincoln at 301 S. 9th St. Cynthia Canann has been named the Boutique’s General Manager. Cynthia comes to Lincoln with a wealth of experience in the marketing and thrifting industry. This is the second boutique that Cynthia has designed/curated and managed in the last six months. All of the incredible items at Sally’s Select come from generous donations through The Salvation Army that are then curated especially for the Lincoln location. By shopping with Sally’s, you’re not just feeling good, you’re doing good! Your support helps them continue their mission to make a difference in our community. Thank you for being a part of this beautiful cycle of giving and receiving. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Contact James McCombs for more information! 1530 S. 70th St., Suite 102 | Lincoln, NE 68506 | (402) 421-7474

DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

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

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

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

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

Position your business in front of the emerging workforce by joining today at

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Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

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BUSINESS NEWS CT Construction Launches New Website and Gears Up for New Certification

SP Team Assisting Businesses with Pass-Through Entity Tax (PTET)

CT Construction is thrilled about the updates they recently made to their website, which are now launched live. They couldn’t be more excited to have processes streamlined just in time for the holidays, in which CT Construction wishes everyone happy holidays and safe traveling.

In May, Governor Jim Pillen signed LB754 into law which created a Pass-Through Entity Tax (PTET) for the state of Nebraska, for tax years 2023 and beyond, and retroactive for 2018-2022. This new law allows a pass-through entity (S-Corporation or Partnership) to pay the state income tax liability on behalf of its shareholders or partners and deduct those payments in full at the entity level. As of this summer, 36 states have passed PTET legislation with four others pending legislation. Nebraska’s legislation directed the state department of revenue to develop forms and the necessary rules and instructions for the PTET. Nebraska taxpayers will have until December 31, 2025, to claim retroactive credits for 2018-2022. The SP Group team has been proactively identifying their business clients that could benefit from this new law and assisting them with year-end planning related to this tax change. For many S-Corporation shareholders and partnership partners, these changes could result in tax savings. If you have any questions regarding the Pass-Through Entity Tax (PTET), please contact your trusted advisor to see if PTET is relevant to your tax situation and how to take advantage of it. SP Group, P.C. is a growing entrepreneurial accounting firm that serves growth-oriented companies and talented individuals in the Midwest. They value the relationships they have developed with their clients over the years. For more information, follow SP Group on Facebook (@SP Group, P.C.) and Twitter (@SPGroupPC) ), call them at (402) 420-7758 or visit spgrouppc.com.

CT Construction is also looking to acquire thin-panel large porcelain tile installation certification towards the end of 2023 and beginning of 2024, validating their skills and expertise in installing large porcelain tiles that are relatively thin in thickness. This certification will allow them to offer another service to customers. CT Construction is a family owned company specializing in bath, kitchen and full-house renovations and remodels in addition to basement home additions, flooring installation and tile. To ensure their projects go as smoothly as possible, CT Construction educates their clients about the products they offer and how their services can best help their clients. For more information, visit ctconstructionlincoln.com.

Melichar’s 66 Relocates to New Location As of June 1, Melichar’s 66 Sales and Service now operates from Parkway 66 at 4749 Normal Blvd. To combine both businesses, they moved from their downtown Lincoln location. Both businesses retained their employees, adding each other’s to create a larger team to ensure that long-time customers from both locations will always see a familiar face. Melichar’s 66 served downtown Lincoln for 53 years and three generations, and are looking forward to continue that tradition at their new location. Melichar's 66 has purchased some of the latest automotive maintenance service equipment in order to better serve customers’ needs, and expanded their ability to work on most foreign and domestic vehicles. Their services will include computer diagnostic repair, suspension and brake service and tire installation. Specializing in all aspects of vehicle repair and engine diagnostics, Melichar’s 66 services all makes and models. To learn more, visit melichar66.com or find them on Facebook under Melichar's 66 Sales and Service.

Commercial Realty Group, LLC Announces Gateway Professional Building at 600 N Cotner in Lincoln is For Sale Commercial R e a l t y Group, LLC is pleased to announce that the G a t eway Professional Building at 600 N Cotner in Lincoln, NE, is for sale. The property is perfect for an owner/user or as an investment opportunity in a prime location near Gateway Mall. The building is approximately 42,000 square feet with 2.34 acres of B-3 zoned ground. It has ample space that can be easily tailored to suit various business needs, with several suites available, allowing customization to cater to diverse businesses. Currently, the building is 68 percent occupied. Priced at $4,250,000, the building is only $101.19 per square foot! Laura Bell, the Broker/Manager of Commercial Realty Group, LLC, has over 35 years of experience in the commercial real estate business. She is a recent winner of CoStar’s 2023 Power Broker Quarterly Deals Award and the 2022 Lincoln Top Power Broker. Laura has her clients' best interests first and foremost. Learn more about her excellent service at www.crgnebraska.net. For additional information about Commercial Realty Group, LLC, a tour of the building or to list your commercial property, contact Laura at (402) 432-9914 today! DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

STAR CITY SIX

KATIE

Katie Koester

EOS WORLDWIDE

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

402-853-6713 • ctconstructionlincoln.com 22

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

Meet Katie Koester, Professional EOS Implementer at EOS Worldwide. Tell us a little about your business. - I help owners and leaders implement the EOS system into their business. EOS, the Entrepreneurial Operating System®, is a complete set of simple concepts and practical tools that have helped thousands of entrepreneurs around the world get what they want from their businesses. Implementing EOS will help you and your leadership team get better at three things: Vision – get everyone in your organization 100% on the same page with where you’re going and how you plan to get there. Traction – instill focus, discipline and accountability throughout the company so that everyone executes on that vision every day. Healthy – help your leaders become a more cohesive, functional, healthy leadership team. How did you get started in the business? - I worked for a local construction company for over 13 years in the areas of operations and leadership; we used EOS for the last six years. I fell in love with the simplicity of the system, the ability to clarify goals and the results we saw from using it. I decided I wanted to start my own business focused on implementing EOS so that I could help other owners and leaders. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Time! There are always competing priorities and fires. As a leader at a company and now a small business owner, I must get good at focusing my time on the right priorities and not getting distracted. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Starting my own business. I loved being a leader in my prior role, but the feeling of starting my own business, doing the work on the good days and bad days and continuing to drive toward success has been my greatest achievement. Tell us a little about your family. - My husband, Clint, and I have two boys, Weston and Troy, and a little dog named Roo. We live on an acreage east of Lincoln and spend much of our time at sporting events for the boys. We are a big baseball family and love to be outdoors or back home helping on our family farm. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Realizing that my kids weren’t getting any younger and I was missing it. I was prioritizing my work over everything else. I had to stop and admit that it was on me that I was missing that time and that I needed to adjust my priorities. Once I did that, things got a lot more enjoyable at both home and work! Who inspires you? - Military Veterans – I have family and friends who have served, and I take our gift of freedom very seriously. Some of our Veterans struggle with battles long after they leave the military and their strength and resilience to keep going every day in the face of all of that inspires me. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - "Always bet on yourself, no matter what the odds are. It means more to be in the race than to watch the victory laps from the stands." – Pete Wentz. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Mel Robbins – she is so inspirational and relatable. I have read all her books and listen to her podcast regularly. I appreciate that she gives you practical tools to apply to your life, but also shows her vulnerable side when she doesn’t have all her s*it together! If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 335.8244 | katie.koester@eosworldwide.com | www. eosworldwide.com/katie-koester #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

URIAH

2110 Winthrop Rd. Lincoln, NE 68502

Uriah Sawyer

ARCHER EXTERIORS Meet Uriah Sawyer, Owner/Operator of Archer Exteriors. Tell us a little about your business. - We are an up-and-coming exterior company in Lincoln and surrounding areas. We specialize in fiber cement siding and vinyl siding. We also specialize in fiber cement soffit and fascia, aluminum soffit and fascia, vinyl soffit and aluminum cladding of all sorts such as garage door wraps, window and door wraps. If you’re looking to have a deck or porch built, we can also tackle those! How did you get started in the business? - I started off roofing and doing other construction projects with my dad since I was a teenager and have always stayed in the construction industry. I’ve worked for a few local construction companies over the years and have always dreamed of eventually working for myself. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Having the courage to take risks. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Every time I get a call from a potential customer who has been recommended by a past customer. Or even when a customer becomes a repeat customer and has multiple projects done. Tell us a little about your family. - My wife and I are both born and raised right here in Lincoln. I am a father of four boys. My wife and I have been happily married for three years What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Becoming a father and a husband really opened my eyes to what life is really about and what little time we have on earth should be spent wisely. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - On days off, I enjoy watching Husker Football with my family and friends. I also love hunting and am looking forward to when my boys will able to come out with me on some hunts as well! Who inspires you? - My family is my biggest motivator to always strive to be the best person I can be not only for them, but for myself as well. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Don’t make excuses, just get it done!” I love this quote because it is applicable to any aspect of life. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Honorable. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Any profession that would allow me to be out hunting all year! What is your favorite movie? - I’ve always loved the Marvel movies, but Avengers: Endgame would have to be my favorite of all of them. What is your favorite TV show? - I really enjoy watching College and NFL Football. When those aren’t on, The Office or Family Feud are good shows for a laugh. What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - My family enjoys eating at Hiro 88, Runza and several of the local food trucks around town. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Having dinner with Shaq. I think he would be fun guy to have dinner and a beer with! If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 601-3657 | archerexteriors402@gmail.com #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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(402) 466-8118 w w w.biggerstaf fs.com DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

STAR CITY SIX

SHERRY

Sherry Back

HIGH PLAINS ALZHEIMER’S SPECIAL CARE CENTER

y a d o T g n Protecti

Building

Tomorro w

Offering

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

Mark Kavan

mkavan@fumainsurance.com 402-421-1921

Jennifer Larabee

Jennifer@fumafinancial.com 402-560-0047

mkavan@fumainsurance.com | fumafinancial.com

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

Meet Sherry Back, Lifestyle Director at High Plains Alzheimer’s Special Care Center. Tell us a little about your business. - High Plains is a Memory Care community with a focus on a meaningful and engaging lifestyle program that helps keep meaning and purpose in the lives of our residents. All resident have some sort of Alzheimer’s or Dementia, and all programming is created with their needs in mind. How did you get started in the business? - My daughter worked at a senior living community and thought my love for others would shine in this field, so she hired me. I’ve been working in senior living ever since! What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The biggest challenge for me is getting so close to the residents to where they become like family and then having to say goodbye once they pass away. It never gets easier. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Getting this job as Lifestyle Director. My passion and love for the meaningful experiences I have with them has allowed me to move up in the field from serving their meals to being able to light up their days with activities I plan. Tell us a little about your family. - I have four children, 13 grandchildren and will be a great-grandmother in January. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Getting my first job in senior living. It made me realize that this type of work and caring for seniors is what fills my bucket. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love to cook and spend time with my family. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - That I am a grandma to 13 grandchildren. Who inspires you?- My oldest daughter, Sandy. She didn’t always have an easy life, and has gone from a single teen mom to a Vice President of Operations for her company. She has always worked harder than anyone I know to make a beautiful life. I am proud of her. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - To believe in myself. After hearing this advice, I have started stepping out of my comfort zone to pursue things I never thought I could. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Compassionate. If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - To heal people. Which talent would you most like to have? - To have more selfconfidence. What local nonprofit organization are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - The Alzheimer’s Association. It supports a cause very close to my heart. What is your favorite movie? - When a Man Loves a Woman. What is your favorite TV show? - Law & Order SVU. What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - DISH and Hiro 88. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Activities@highplainsseniorliving.com #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

LINETTE

Linette Bradley

Solutions to help your business do more.

MAVEN TILE & STONE Meet Linette Bradley, a Designer at Maven Tile & Stone. Tell us a little about your business. - Maven Tile & Stone is a premier tile and stone showroom that has been creating beautiful spaces for over 20 years in the greater Los Angeles and Orange County areas. Recently, we have relocated to Lincoln, but our projects have been nationwide, ranging from commercial to residential. We source materials from all over the world and have curated beautiful and unique lines of materials for any size project. What sets Maven Tile & Stone apart is our commitment to providing outstanding personalized customer service to homeowners, contractors, architects and designers helping create beautiful, timeless and unique spaces! How did you get started in the business? - I followed my passion for fashion and design and found a job that combined my interests of international business and design. I haven’t looked back since. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Learning to give myself permission to detach from my work. As someone who is passionate about what I do, it can be difficult to step away from a project or task, even when I know it’s necessary. However, I’ve learned that taking breaks and allowing myself time to recharge is essential for maintaining my productivity and creativity. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Building strong, long-lasting relationships with clients and colleagues over the past 12 years. These relationships have been instrumental in my success and have led me to one of my longest and most important relationships. When I was presented with the opportunity to relocate my family and work for Lizett (again!), the Owner of Maven Tile & Stone, I took little to no hesitation. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - When I met my husband on March 14, 2020. I asked him to dance with me, not knowing that two days later, the world would shut down. Almost four years later and a baby, we have been enjoying the adventures, journey and company ever since! What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Live bands, good food and good company! What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I can speak/understand five different languages. Who inspires you? - I would say that my mom is up there on my list! In addition to her, there are so many amazing people throughout history who have inspired me with their creativity, courage and compassion. I also find inspiration in everyday people, such as those I might meet at a grocery store or on the street. It’s amazing how much inspiration there is. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - A college professor once gave me the best advice I’ve ever received: get a mentor and get one as early as possible in your career. I took his advice to heart and was fortunate enough to have Mr. Mel Pasquale as my mentor. He has guided me throughout my career and helped me in so many ways! Thanks Mel! If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Influential. If you had a theme song, what would it be? - Walker Texas Ranger theme song, but re-written for me. What is your favorite movie? - The Departed. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - LinetteB@maventileandstone.com | www.maventileandstone.com #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Nebraska Diamond | Lincoln, NE

/business Member FDIC

DO YOU HAVE A GRIP ON YOUR BUSINESS? OR DOES YOUR BUSINESS HAVE A GRIP ON YOU? Get a FREE 90-minute meeting to learn how your team and your business can benefit from EOS.

KATIE KOESTER 402.335.8244 | katie.koester@eosworldwide.com eosworldwide.com/katie-koester

DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

STAR CITY SIX

KURT

Kurt Dummer

NEEMANN & SONS Meet Kurt Dummer, Commercial Operations Manager at Neemann & Sons. Tell us a little about your business. - Neemann & Sons is a family owned business offering professional exterior services for your roofing, siding and gutter needs for residential and commercial buildings. We have three core values to offer the best services possible for our clients and the community: honesty, hard work and customer satisfaction. As a family-friendly service, we focus on establishing trust by reviewing your specific needs, expectations, concerns and requirements. We work with you, your budget and your schedule to provide custom processes and quality finishes to assure the best service and value on every project. We ensure every project goes above and beyond expectations and offer a five-year Workmanship Warranty to fix any problem you may have. How did you get started in the business? - My buddy contacted me and asked if I knew anybody who would be interested in their open position. I was interested. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Balancing work and home life. I don't bring work home with me so I don't lose out on any more time with my family than I already do. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - The relationships I've made in the construction industry since moving to the area. Tell us a little about your family. - My wife, Kimberly, and I have three boys: Collin who is 11, Crew who is nine and Hanes who is six. Then we have a dog, Rex. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Meeting my wife. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - To hunt or fish. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I am really good at sewing. Who inspires you? - My kids. I want to be able to do things for them that I didn't have the opportunity to do growing up. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Work harder than everyone else. By working hard, you can accomplish almost anything. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Light-hearted or fun. If you had a theme song, what would it be? - "Not Afraid" by Eminem. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - To be able to fly. What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Easy, I can kind of juggle. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Professional hunter or fisherman. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? Hatchet by Gary Paulsen. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Bill Murray. He is an American actor, comedian and writer with an unpredictable and offbeat personality. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 423-4853 | www.neemannandsons.com

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

#PrintProudDigitalSmart

MELISSA

Melissa Reinsch

LINCOLN FEDERAL SAVINGS BANK Meet Melissa Reinsch, VP of Deposit Services at Lincoln Federal Savings Bank. Tell us a little about your business. - I work for an amazing Lincolnbased bank. My expertise is in retail banking where we focus on meeting our customers’ checking account needs and helping them reach their savings goals. The communities that we serve are so important to us – I’m lucky to work with deposit professionals across the state to help our customers achieve their goals. How did you get started in the business? - I started working on the teller line at Lincoln Federal Savings Bank 24 years ago. At that time, banking wasn’t really a career I had considered but it was a great way to learn about the banking world. I loved it and it was the first step that led me to my current position. Tell us a little about your family. - I have been married to my husband Aaron for 22 years. We have two sons. Aidan is 19 years old and a sophomore at UNL. Isaac is 15 years old and a sophomore at Lincoln Northstar. Our furry family member is Koda, a sevenyear-old Shiba Inu. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - There are few, but the most obvious is when I had my first child. It made my priorities clear in a way that I didn’t have before I had children. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - A great day off includes sitting on my deck with a cup of hot coffee and a good book, taking a long run and spending time with my family and friends. Who inspires you? - Seeing my children navigate their worlds with kindness and confidence inspires me. They challenge my thinking on a daily basis! What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - A mentor once told me to go into the bathroom at the end of the day, wash my hands and leave the work stress at the door on my way out. I think of that on occasions when I need to find more balance in my life. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Loyal. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - I would love be able to teleport. I love to travel but getting to and from a faraway destination is not my favorite way to spend a day. Which talent would you most like to have? - I really admire artists of any kind. I would love to have the ability to draw. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Probably some sort of a therapist. I think it’s really interesting and valuable to understand why we do the things we do and how to make changes that can benefit our life. What is your favorite TV show? - The Righteous Gemstones. What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - It’s hard to choose, but The Oven and Mazatlan are favorites. I’ve enjoyed many great meals with family and friends at each of these. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - My grandmother, Dorothy, who passed away many years ago. She raised 12 children and taught me many life lessons. She always gave me good brutally honest advice, whether I wanted to hear it or not! If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 325-4822 | mreinsch@lincolnfed.com #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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

LUNCH BUFFET & DINNER Monday - Sunday | 11am - 9pm Dine-in, Carryout, and Delivery available

8340 Glynoaks Drive Lincoln, NE 68516

(531) 500-5402 pizzavics.com

THE CONCRETE CRAFT DIFFERENCE

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

STAR CITY SIX

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

REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION & ESTIMATE

531.333.5225

5800 Hidcote Dr., #102 Lincoln, NE 68516 2021 Concrete Craft, LLC All Rights Reserved. Concrete Craft is a trademark of Concrete Craft, LLC, and a Home Franchise Concepts brand. Each franchise is independently owned and operated.

ConcreteCraft.com

DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

PERSONNEL NEWS Marcus Hotels & Resorts Names Kevin Miller as General Manager of The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel Marcus® Hotels & Resorts, a nationally recognized owner and management company and division of The Marcus Corporation, has appointed Kevin Miller as General Manager of The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel. In his new role, Miller will oversee the 300-room historic hotel located near the University of Nebraska campus, Nebraska State Capitol and Historic Haymarket District. “We are excited to welcome Kevin as the new General Manager of The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel,” said Michael Evans, President of Marcus Hotels & Resorts. “Kevin is an accomplished hospitality leader with a diverse background in hotel operations. He is results driven with a passion for exceeding guest expectations. Kevin will lead The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel as it continues to be the premier hotel in Nebraska’s capital city serving both business and leisure travelers.” With over 20 years of hospitality experience, Miller most recently served as Director of Hotel Operations at the Sheraton Overland Park at the Convention Center in Overland Park, KS. In this role, he led the hotel’s operations as well as managed a room renovation project. Miller received an associate degree in hotels and restaurant management from Humber College in Toronto. For more information on The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel, visit www.marriott.com/lnkfs. For more information about Marcus Hotels & Resorts and its properties, visit www.marcushotels.com.

Christian Record Services Employee, Dr. Leanora Ruff, Honored in Atlanta Christian Record Services employee Dr. Leanora Ruff was recently awarded the President’s Lifetime Ac hievement Award in Atlanta by Rubye Braye on behalf of AmeriCorps and the Office of the President of the United States in recognition of her commitment to build a stronger nation through her lifetime of volunteer service. Ruff, who is blind herself, described how she had been helped personally and professionally over her life by CRS and came to run the call-in service PhoneFaith, which joined CRS in 2020. Each year they reach well over 1,000 people with at least 17 different weekly call-in programs. “We try to inspire mind, body and spirit through our speaker-led programs and also hold prayer conferences,” said Ruff. “We also celebrate the birthdays of our callers on the fourth Monday of every month. We have revivals and virtual meet and greets. We nurture legally blind people into becoming volunteer hosts and they do so in a marvelous way.” Christian Record Services, headquartered in Lincoln, NE, serves nearly 18,000 members throughout the United States and in countries around the world with approximately 9,000 members outside North America. For more information visit, www.christianrecord.org, call (402) 488-0981 or email info@christianrecord.org.

www.LINCOLNCOINANDBULLION www. LINCOLNCOINANDBULLION.com .com Precious Metal Bullion • Precious Metals • Historic Currency 28

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

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PERSONNEL NEWS

Transform Your Outdoor Space

MidWest Behavioral Health Welcomes Susan E. Gripp to Team

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

MidWest Behavioral Health is pleased to announce that Susan E. Gripp, DNP, PMHNPBC has joined Kara J. Antoniak, APRN, PMHNP-BC on the psychiatry staff. Dr. Gripp is accepting new patients for in-person and telemedicine visit for patients from the age of four. She is qualified to provide psychiatric assessments and medication management; treat mood disorders, anxiety and ADHD/ neurodevelopmental disorders; and order lab work and diagnostic testing. She has specialized training in perinatal mental health disorders through Postpartum Support International (PSI). MidWest Behavioral Health recognizes that most psychological and behavioral issues do not occur in isolation. Rather, they view these problems as an interaction among biological, psychological and environmental factors and rely on a comprehensive approach to address all of these areas. Their goal is to help clients become more aware of the relationship among physical activation or arousal, emotion, behavior and thought. They help them to develop a new understanding and practical skills to support improved self-regulation and better coping. MidWest Behavioral Health is known to the Lincoln and surrounding communities for bringing comprehensive, innovative therapeutic and psychiatric services to children, adolescents and adults. MidWest Behavioral Health supports patients in a collaborative practice environment, tailoring treatment to their unique needs. Available services include psychotherapy, medication management, neurofeedback/biofeedback and collaboration with specialty services in our community. For more information, call (402) 327-0073 or visit mwbehavioral.com.

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

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

DAILY TACO SPECIALS? 200+ TEQUILAS? 32 DRAFT BEERS? OH YEAH, WE GOT THAT. 800 Q Street | Lincoln, NE Civil Engineering • Planning • Surveying • Irrigation Landscape Architecture • Forensics

Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate Congratulates Adam Lowney on Completing the CCIM Designation Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate offers congratulations to Adam Lowney, who earned his CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) designation in October. CCIM designees have completed advanced coursework in financial and market analysis. The CCIM designation is recognized as the global standard for commercial investment real estate investment. You can reach out to Adam directly at adam@ greenleafcommercial.com / (402) 730-8239. Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate has helped local business owners purchase, lease and manage commercial properties since 1973. Their focus on relationship building and understanding each client’s unique circumstances and objectives allow them to tailor a strategy specifically designed to accomplish their client’s goals. Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate is a full-service commercial real estate company offering professional asset management services and brokerage services including leasing, sales, acquisitions, consulting and development. Whatever your commercial real estate needs might be, Greenleaf’s team of professionals is here to help you succeed. For more information on Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate, call (402) 467-2525 or visit www.greenleafcommercial.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

LAyIng thE groundwork to mAkE A dIFFErEnCE

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DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

CONCORDE MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT, LLC

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

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PERSONNEL NEWS David Hunter Joins Farris Engineering as Municipal Utility Sector Leader Farris Engineering, Inc. proudly welcomes David Hunter as the new Municipal Utility Sector Leader, reinforcing the company’s commitment to excellence in engineering solutions. With an impressive career spanning over 33 years, David brings a wealth of diverse and high-caliber engineering and construction experience to Farris Engineering. His extensive background includes significant roles in nuclear power plant operation, AC/ DC power generation, construction, satellite earth station operations, microwave operations and municipal electrical power transmission, water and wastewater treatment. David’s multifaceted expertise positions him as a valuable asset to Farris Engineering’s leadership team. His seasoned experience in engaging constructively and efficiently with regulatory agencies at both federal and state levels is exemplary. David has successfully navigated regulatory landscapes, collaborating with entities such as NeDEQ, HHS, NEC, NESC, EPA, OSHA and FCC. David is enthusiastic about contributing to the company’s ongoing success and innovation. His proven track record of delivering high-quality engineering solutions aligns seamlessly with Farris Engineering’s commitment to exceeding client expectations. “We are thrilled to welcome David to Farris Engineering. His wealth of experience and expertise will undoubtedly enhance our capabilities in the municipal utility sector. We look forward to achieving new heights together,” said Darin Cielocha, Business Development Executive. Farris Engineering is an industry leader in mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering with additional expertise in fire protection engineering, lighting design, building commissioning services, technology systems design and life safety systems engineering. For more information about them and their team, visit farris-usa.com.

Maven Tile & Stone Welcomes Linette Bradley to Team Maven Tile & Stone is excited to welcome Linette Bradley to the team as a Designer! Linette specializes in full remodels and new builds for both residential and commercial properties. Her experience includes a variety of projects such as Brickell City Center in Miama, FL, the LA Rams Stadium in Los Angeles, CA and homes all along the coast as well as projects in Hawaii and Utah. “I have known Lizett, the Owner of Maven Tile and Stone, from the beginning of my career 12 years ago. We met in Orange County, CA, and have stayed in touch ever since. I worked for her last company in Hermosa Beach, CA, and learned so much from her. I admired her throughout my career and am honored to be working for her again. I am excited to relocate my family to Lincoln, NE, and start working together again!” shared Linette. “I can’t wait to explore Lincoln and get to know the community. I’m looking forward to meeting new people and making new friends. If you see me around town, please don’t hesitate to say hello!” Maven Tile & Stone is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and helping you create the perfect vision for your project. To view their wide range of products, visit their showroom at 7011 Kentwell Ln. STE 300 or check out their website at maventileandstone. com. For more information, call (531) 249-5917. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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

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DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

PERSONNEL NEWS Katie Koester Joins EOS Worldwide as Professional EOS Implementer

daVinci's Promotes Krista Messersmith to Catering Director and Hiring Manager

Katie Koester joined EOS Worldwide as a Professional EOS Implementer, where she will help organizations clarify, simply and achieve their vision. To become an official Professional EOS Implementer, Katie attended a one-week-long boot camp training and participates in ongoing quarterly continuing education. Becoming an official Professional EOS Implementer ensures that she has the correct training and ongoing support to deliver the best services for her clients. “After 10+ years working in the construction industry and utilizing EOS to grow the business by over 80% in four years, I decided to make my entrepreneurial leap to help more owners and leadership teams become strong in the six key components of their business, get more of what they want from the business and lead a better life,” shared Katie. “I now get to help entrepreneurs and their leadership teams solve root problems, lead more effectively and gain Traction® in their businesses through a simple, proven operating system.” EOS Worldwide utilizes the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), which is a set of simple concepts and practical tools used by more than 190,000 companies around the world to clarify, simplify and achieve their vision. Look at your business in a whole new way – through the lens of the Six Key Components™. Learn more at www. eosworldwide.com/katie-koester or by contacting Katie Koester at katie.koester@eosworldwide.com / (402) 335-8244.

daVinci’s is thrilled to announce that Krista Messersmith took over the position of Catering Director and Hiring Manager in November. Krista has been with daVinci’s for 33 years. She has spent 31 years in management, with the last 12 years as a General Manager. Krista will be overseeing all catering operations for all five daVinci’s locations. daVinci’s offers drop-n-go catering with variety perfect for any size gathering and budget. Krista will also be overseeing hiring managers and employees for all locations. Krista can be reached via email at krista@davincis.com or catering@davincis.com, or by phone at (402) 434-3300. Krista has lived in Lincoln since 1988. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with High Distinction. Krista spends her time outside of work with her husband of 31 years, Scott, and their five children. She enjoys volunteering for Lincoln North Star performing arts, being a soccer mom and running to keep fit. daVinci’s starts with the finest, freshest ingredients. ALL of their meats are chosen based on quality and flavor, and they use 100% real mozzarella. Their Italian bread is baked fresh daily and vegetables are sliced fresh each morning, and their alfredo and marinara sauces are homemade and developed by their family. To learn more or view menu options, visit www.davincis.com.

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Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

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PERSONNEL NEWS The Mediation Center Elects Two Board Members West Gate Bank® Welcomes The Mediation Center elected to new board Amy Dang and Megan Volpp members at their annual meeting held in June. They are excited for Robert Sanford and Blake Simpson to help the organization grow and thrive. Robert is an Attorney and currently serves as the Administrative Director of Title IX, Institutional Compliance and Labor Relations for Southeast Community College. Robert has more than 20 years of experience working with victims of domestic and sexual violence. He has been trained in Basic Mediation, Family Mediation and Specialized Alternative Dispute Resolution. Robert was one of many voices involved in the development of the Nebraska Parenting Act and worked with The Mediation Center, Office of Dispute Resolution, Nebraska Mediation Association and other mediation centers to provide training on issues related to assisting families that have a history of violence. Robert has many interests outside of work but be warned that he can talk for hours about photography if given the opportunity. Blake Simpson currently serves as Director of Employee Relations, Benefits and Personnel for Lincoln Public Schools where he oversees classified staff, serves as chief negotiator for the district and provides in-house legal support for the district. He also served as an Adjunct Professor of Legal Analysis, Writing and Research at the University of Nebraska College of Law. To request services or learn more, call The Mediation Center at (402) 441-5740 or visit themediationcenter.org.

Cristell Schmidt Celebrates 10 Years with Mosaic Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska is thrilled to congratulate Cristell Schmidt, Independent Contract Program Supervisor, on 10 years at Mosaic! Cristell is dedicated to putting the need for their individuals support first, advocating for their wants and needs and being a great team player. Cristell embodies all of their values: connection, belonging, faithfulness and grit. She has been flexible with all of the changes in their agency and Mosaic truly values her contribution to their team. Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska is so thankful for you and ALL that you do, Cristell! “I have been working for mosaic since I was 20 years old. I started at the agency at Beatrice, not really knowing the impact this field would have on my life. I deeply enjoy caring for the individuals we serve on all levels. My favorite role to this day has been being a DSP and working alongside the individuals. I enjoy taking them out to the movies, golfing, pumpkin patches, etc. Seeing the smile on their face while having a blast is the best feeling. I now get to help them find a person who will provide that for them as well as a place to call home. It is the most rewarding job,” shared Cristell. Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska is part of Mosaic, a whole-person healthcare organization empowering people with disabilities, mental and behavioral health needs and autism, as well as aging adults, to live their best life. Learn more at MosaicInfo.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

The West Gate Bank® Board of Directors is pleased to welcome Amy Dang as a Mortgage Loan Officer and Megan Volpp to the Business Banking Solutions team. Dang is a graduate of University of Nebraska–Lincoln. She brings more than 20 years of banking experience to her new role at West Gate Bank. As a Mortgage Loan Officer, she will work directly with clients to recommend the best mortgage products for their needs, build customized solutions for brokers and clients purchasing or refinancing a home and assist clients with the mortgage origination process from start to finish. Dang is also bilingual with fluency in Vietnamese. Amy Dang is located at West Gate Bank Center at 6003 Old Cheney Rd., and can be reached at (402) 323-8923 / adang@westgate.bank. A native of Honolulu, Hawaii, Volpp, is a graduate of the University of Nebraska and earned her master’s degree at Texas State University. She will be responsible for working with the Business Banking Department sales team and their existing and potential customers, as well as assisting the team to support daily operations. Volpp is a volunteer for Wysong Elementary as the current President of their Parent Teacher Organization. Megan Volpp is located at West Gate Bank Center at 6003 Old Cheney Rd., and can be reached at (531) 289-3798 / mvolpp@westgate.bank. West Gate Bank is a family-owned community bank with 10 locations in Lincoln and Omaha. At West Gate Bank, their interest is you! Visit westgate.bank for more information.

Oak Electric, Inc. Welcomes Chad Klein as Service & Outreach Manager Oak Electric, Inc. is excited to announce that Chad Klein has joined their team as their Service & Outreach Manager. He will play a pivotal role in the growth of the company. Chad’s strong drive for community involvement as well as his passion for customer service is a true asset to Oak Electric, Inc. Chad has over 20 years of management experience and loves using a team approach to solving problems. Chad and his wife have three children, three fur babies and one busy grandson. Rumor has it that a second grandchild is due to arrive early 2024 (but you didn’t hear it from us). In Chad’s free time, he enjoys doing “grandparent” things with his wife and grandson. Chad is a fan of Sci-fi movies and may be slightly obsessed with Star Wars. Chad’s sense of loyalty and dedication to his family are on par with Oak Electric’s reputation of providing honest, dependable service. Oak Electric, Inc. is a 100% woman-owned, premium contractor with a tradition of exemplary service. Their team of experienced electricians not only care about precision and craftsmanship, but value the real relationships that come with working with their customers. For more information, please visit www.oakelectriccompany.com or call (402) 440-5969. DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

PERSONNEL NEWS Caring Friends In Home Care Promotes Janelle Fuehrer to Site Coordinator

Stepping Stones Welcomes Rachel Despain, LMHP

Caring Friends In Home Care is proud to announce the promotion of Janelle Fuehrer to Site Coordinator. Prior to coming to work for Caring Friends, Janelle worked as an Assistant Manager at Hy-Vee for five years. After this, she moved back to her hometown to help care for her father, where she also worked as a CNA at York General Hearthstone Nursing Facility. After she lost both her parents, whom she was blessed to care for, she took a job as a caregiver for Caring Friends In Home Care. She had come to realize that most people want to stay in the comfort of their home for as long as safely possible, giving them peace of mind.

Stepping Stones is pleased to welcome Rachel Despain to their team. Rachel is a Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP). She received her undergraduate degree in Psychology, with a minor in Sociology, from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and her Master’s in Counseling from Doane University. Rachel’s areas of focus include truancy, selfesteem, body image, anxiety, depression, ADHD, familial relationship issues, phase of life issues and behavior issues. She works with both children (starting at age six) and adults. Appointments are available between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

In her free time Janelle loves spending time with her eight-year-old daughter doing crafts and building Legos as well as spending time outside in her flower garden or enjoying roasting marshmallows over an open fire.

Stepping Stones provides counseling for mental health and cooccurring disorders, drug and alcohol assessment, and substance use counseling and treatment. Stepping Stones is a program of Lincoln Medical Education Partnership located at 4600 Valley Rd. Appointments are available Mondays through Fridays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and are scheduled through Lincoln Family Medicine Center by calling (402) 483-4571. Later appointments may be available upon request. If you have a non-appointment related question and wish to speak to a Stepping Stones counselor, please call (402) 488-6511. For more information, visit www.steppingstoneslincoln.com.

With over 20 years of experience within the healthcare field, Caring Friends In Home Care strives to go above and beyond. Your care will be directed by you and your own individualized choices. Give them a call and make a plan that will allow you your independence in the comforts of your own home. For more information, visit caringfriendsinhomecare.com or call (402) 207-1050.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Lincoln Federal Savings Bank Celebrates Nine Employees Serving over 20 Years This quarter, Lincoln Federal Savings Bank has much to celebrate. Nine employees have been serving Lincoln Federal Savings Bank for over 20 years! These employees have created lasting relationships with customers and with one another. They embody Lincoln Federal Savings Bank’s motto and deserve to be celebrated! • Tori Bartels, Assistant VP and Customer Service Supervisor, has served 36 years. • Susan Scheef, Assistant VP and Customer Service Supervisor, has served 26 years. • Amy Haeffner, Senior VP and Mortgage Loan Production Manager, has served 25 years. • Greg Unger, VP and Mortgage Loan Underwriter, has served 25 years. • John Haney Jr., VP and Residential Staff Appraiser, has served 25 years. • Linda Larson, VP and Deposit Services Admin Manager, has served 25 years. • Sherry Bittfield, Customer Service Representative, has served 22 years. • Heather Merrill, Assistant VP Loan Servicing, has served 21 years. • Sherri Kinney, Assistant VP and Customer Service Supervisor, has served 20 years. Learn more about Lincoln Federal Savings Bank at lincolnfed.com. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

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McGill Law’s Jodie McGill Announced Finalist for Excellence in Small Businesses McGill Law celebrated founding and Managing Attorney Jodie McGill at the Inspire: Celebrating Women's Leadership in Omaha Awards! She was a finalist for Excellence in Small Business among an amazing group of Omaha women! Congratulations to all nominees, finalists and awardees! Jodie McGill founded McGill Law, P.C., L.L.O. in 2011 so she could build a family law firm that allowed her to combine her passions, skills and expertise to help more people in the Omaha community. McGill Law also celebrated their firm’s Best of Omaha recognitions as the number one firm in Omaha for Divorce Mediation and number three for overall Omaha Law Firm! McGill Law is a woman-owned and operated family law firm practicing collaborative law, collaborative mediation, mediation and litigation. McGill Law is a female focused firm, specialized in helping women through legal issues like divorce, child custody and modifications. The firm believes that the best results for women are achievable when educated decisions are made with their family’s future and well-being in mind. To contact McGill Law, call (402) 5485418 or email info@McGillLawyers.com. For more information, go to McGillLawyers.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

luxurylandscape.ne@gmail.com 402.440.7721 | luxurylandscape-llc.com DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

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PERSONNEL NEWS Union Bank & Trust Promotes Luff and Henkenius Union Bank & Trust (UBT) recently promoted both Cheri Luff and Michael Henkenius to Vice President – Trust Officer roles in the Personal Trust and Wealth Management department. With 27 years of banking experience, Luff previously worked as an annuity/insurance agent and has served in various roles in UBT’s Personal Trust department since joining the bank in 1996. As a trust officer for UBT, she is responsible for helping customers with wealth management and trust and estate administration services. A graduate of the University of Nebraska – Lincoln with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and sociology, Luff acquired her Certified IRA Services Professional designation from Ascensus and her Certified Trust and Fiduciary Advisor (CTFA) designation through the American Bankers Association. Henkenius brings 26 years of banking and charitable gift planning experience to his role at UBT. His new responsibilities will mirror those of Luff, working with clients on their wealth management, estate and trust needs. A graduate of Creighton University with a bachelor’s degree in political science and economics, Henkenius also completed Creighton University School of Law. He acquired his CTFA designation and is currently studying to earn a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP) designation. Union Bank & Trust is a privately owned Nebraska bank that offers complete banking, lending, investment and trust services, in addition to serving as program manager for Nebraska’s NEST College Savings Plan. Learn more at ubt.com.

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Kenl Inn Announces New Hires and Promotions Kenl Inn is excited for Tyler Reeder, Hailey Garner and JD McAllister to step into new roles! They will be great additions to the team and help things run more smoothly and efficiently. Tyler Reeder, Manager - Tyler is taking over management of safety/OSHA as well as special projects. His current projects include improving employee training and education, adding a daycare enrichment program and policy and procedure conformance. Tyler also helps oversee quality assurance in the kennel – your pet’s health and safety are a number one priority! Hailey Garner, AM Kennel Supervisor - Hailey coordinates the dayto-day operations in the kennel. She makes daily task assignments, helps with problem solving and ensures that the staff is always doing what’s best for the pets in Kenl Inn’s care. JD McAllister, PM Kennel Supervisor - JD recently moved to Lincoln after working as a supervisor at pet care facility in Kansas. He oversees the staff in the evening to ensure that things are running smoothly and that all pets staying with Kenl Inn are safely settled in for the night. Set on 44 acres just outside of Lincoln, Kenl Inn is devoted to providing the best possible care for your pets. For more information visit www. kenl-inn.com, or contact (402) 488-8190 / dian@kenl-inn.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

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NONPROFIT NEWS Lincoln YMCA Planning for Winter Events, Activities and Exercise

The Arc of Lincoln Hosts Harvest Moon Fundraiser October 19

The Lincoln YMCA invites you to join them for another winter of activities and workouts! YMCA Family Events All events are open to both Y Members and Community Members. For more information on each event, visit YMCALincoln.org/events. December 2 – Craft Fair (9 a.m. – 3 p.m.) – Cooper YMCA December 12 – Pancakes & Pajamas (5:30 – 7 p.m.) – Copple Family YMCA December 13 – Santa’s Workshop (5 – 6:30 p.m.) – Northeast YMCA December 29 - January 1, 2024 – New Year’s Live Campout – YMCA Camp Kitaki YMCA360 The Y offers group exercise classes for all ages and interests including cardio, strength training, cycling and more! With YMCA360, this on-demand service brings the Y experience seamlessly to mobile devices, TV’s, streaming devices and the web and is included with every Lincoln YMCA membership. To learn more about YMCA360, visit YMCALincoln.org/YMCA360. YMCA Holiday Stay Fit Pass The Holiday Stay Fit Pass is the perfect solution for friends and family visiting over the holidays, or the college student home on winter break. Good for 30 days from date of purchase, Adult Pass ($55), Household Pass ($115). 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.

Many thanks to all who attended and supported The Arc of Lincoln Harvest Moon Annual Celebration held on October 19. The event, which advocated for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities, was a fun-filled success. The scrumptious dinner by the Venue, the lively fundraising Live Auction by Ed Hall of Vandertook Auction Co. as well as the Silent Auction and the recognition program event took place at The Grand Manse in the Jasmine Room. 2023 Arc Advocate Awards were presented to the following individuals in recognition of their advocacy and service: • Community Advocate Award: Kathy Wade, DD Service Coordination Supervisor - NE Department Health & Human Services • Educator Advocate Award: Hope Clarke, Lux MS Special Education Teacher - Lincoln Public Schools • Leadership Advocate Award: Dr. Amber Messersmith- Management Department Professor, UNL College of Business • Self-Advocate Award: Alan Carlson- Board Vice President, Arc of Lincoln Appreciation was expressed to the following Harvest Moon sponsors: Bryan Hospital, Lincoln; Hands of Heartland, Lincoln; Glienke Insurance Agency, Lincoln; Kobza Family, Lincoln; NIAF Reality, Lincoln; Riggs & Associates CPAs, Lincoln; Sandhills Global - Peed Foundation, Lincoln; and Young Family, Beatrice. Appreciation was also expressed to over 50 agencies, businesses and individuals who donated auction items. The Arc of Lincoln thanks all Harvest Moon supporters. To learn more or to inquire about The Arc of Lincoln, visit www. arclincoln.org or contact Executive Director Jennifer Stuhmer at director@arclincoln.org / (402) 421-8866.

Nearly 1,200 Runners Triumph at Metro GOTR 5K Hard work and determination paid off in bragging rights and high spirits at the Girls on the Run (GOTR) 5K November 5 at Air Park in Lincoln. Mother Nature contributed to the successful event by providing an unusually warm and sunny November day. Girls on the Run provides after-school programming that builds confidence, character and fitness in third- through sixth-grade girls. GOTR teams of 10 to 20 girls meet twice weekly for two months to complete an innovative curriculum that blends life-skills lessons with physical training to complete the season-ending 5K. Some 500 GOTR girls representing 38 teams from Omaha, Lincoln and southeast Nebraska, trekked three miles alongside their adult Run Buddy to receive a medal and other goodies at the finish line arch. Three GOTR Graduates from the Blehm family in Lincoln were the lead bikers for the event. Two of the three siblings run track/cross country at UNL and recruited fellow teammates to run the water stop on the route. Another 100 volunteers came together to present the 5K, with members from Delta Kappa Pi at Doane University, Gamma Phi Beta at Creighton, and Delta Gamma, Pi Phi and Gamma Phi at UNL. Feedback on the event has been overwhelmingly positive, and as many noted, the gorgeous weather was a major plus. The spring season begins in March at sites across Nebraska. Visit www. GOTRNebraska.org to bring GOTR to your school or to get involved. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Friendship Home Thanks Lincoln Residents for Sponsoring a Family for the Holidays Thanks to businesses, organizations and individuals, Friendship Home provided Thanksgiving meals and gifts to survivors served at Friendship Home this holiday season. Friendship Home appreciates all the Lincoln community does to support domestic violence survivors year-round, especially during the holidays. Your generosity gives hope to survivors as well as holiday spirit. The holidays can seem impossible for a survivor of domestic violence. At Friendship Home, they strive to make the lives of those they serve easier. Every survivor and their children at Friendship Home receive Christmas gifts donated by generous community members. This year, 35 families received presents. Because so many presents are received each year, Friendship Home is able to provide birthday gifts and other gifts to residents throughout the year. They could not do this without your generosity. Friendship Home provides crisis services, emergency shelter and transitional housing to victims of domestic violence and their children. If you, or someone you know, is experiencing domestic violence, please call Friendship Home's 24/7 crisis line at (402) 437-9302. To learn more, visit www.friendshiphome.org. DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business 39

NONPROFIT NEWS Nebraska Statewide Arboretum to Hold Winter Solstice Hikes at Prairie Pines Nature Preserve

Ring in the New Year with Make-Believe Midnight December 31 at the Lincoln Children’s Museum

The Nebraska S t a t e w i d e Arboretum (NSA) will hold two Winter Solstice Hikes on Wednesday, December 20, at Prairie Pines Nature Preserve (3100 N. 112th St.). An early evening hike will begin at 6:30 p.m. (ideal for families with young children) and a later hike will begin at 8:30 p.m. Each hike will be followed by an opportunity to enjoy hot cocoa and hot apple cider, sponsored by Cultiva. “The holiday season is wonderful, but it can also feel very hectic. The Winter Solstice offers a welcome opportunity to slow down for a few minutes, take a deep breath and enjoy the peace and quiet of the outdoors,” said Hanna Pinneo, Executive Director of NSA. Tickets for the Winter Solstice Hikes are $5 each (children ages five and under free). Register at plantnebraska.org/solsticehike. The Nebraska Statewide Arboretum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit founded in 1978 that plants Nebraska for healthy people, vibrant communities and a resilient environment. They value their partnerships with more than 100 affiliate sites throughout the state, more than 1,000 members and with the Nebraska Forest Service and the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska. To learn more, visit plantnebraska.org or contact the Arboretum staff at (402) 472-2971 / arboretum@unl.edu.

The Lincoln Children's Museum is hosting their annual ‘Make-Believe Midnight,’ a family-friendly New Year’s Eve party. This event will take place on December 31 with two sessions available – the perfect opportunity for families to ring in the New Year together. The event will be a bubble extravaganza, full of kid-friendly activities like makeand-take crafts, dance party, bubble wrap stomp, photo booth and a countdown with a bubble drop and pop. Tickets for Make-Believe Midnight are required for both adults and children and must be purchased in advance at lincolnchildrensmuseum. org/make-believe-midnight. Tickets to Make-Believe Midnight at the Lincoln Children’s Museum can also be purchased and given as a gift, perfect for the holiday season. The Lincoln Children’s Museum invites children to create, discover and learn through the power of play. The museum’s hands-on exhibits, day and summer camps and learning programs provide countless opportunities for children to gain knowledge in arts, sciences and humanities. Every visit, membership, donation or in-museum purchase helps to support their mission. For more information about MakeBelieve Midnight and the Lincoln Children's Museum, please visit www.lincolnchildrensmuseum.org.

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

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NONPROFIT NEWS American Stroke Association Offering New Interactive Tool for Warning Sign Recognition The American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association – a global force for healthier lives for all, is dedicated to saving people from stroke. Recognizing the stroke warning signs and calling 911 immediately may make the difference between a strong recovery or long-term disability, survival or death. New this year, by uploading a selfie and recording your voice, you can see and hear what some common stroke warning signs may look and sound like on you with the Association’s new F.A.S.T. experience. Visit www.Stroke.org/Fast-Experience to use this new interactive tool to help you recognize stroke warning signs in yourself and others. Learn how to spot a stroke F.A.S.T.: • Face Dropping – Does one side off the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person’s smile uneven? • Arm Weakness – Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? • Speech Difficulty – Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, like “The sky is blue.” • Time to call 911 – If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 911 and get to a hospital immediately. Check the time so you’ll know when the first symptoms appeared. For more information about the American Heart Association, visit www.heart.org.

Heartland Cancer Foundation Seeking Community Support Through Holiday Season T h i s y e a r, o v e r 11,000 Nebraskans received a cancer diagnosis, and many experienced barriers to life-saving care because of a financial burden. YOU can help by making a donation to the Heartland Cancer Foundation (HCF). Your gift helps cover housing and transportation costs for these patients during their treatment journey so they can focus on what matters most: healing. So far in 2023, HCF has helped 302 patients with grants totaling $152,500. HCF has never turned down a request, and they need your support to help give the gift of hope this holiday season. There are several opportunities to help, including adding HCF in your retirement and estate planning, scheduling a recurring gift to allow HCF to execute long-term programs and outreach expansion or sponsoring the upcoming Mardi Gras Gala to be held on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at the Cornhusker Hotel in Lincoln. This is an excellent opportunity for businesses as well as an exciting themed evening featuring a premium auction, prizes and entertainment. HCF encourages coming together as a community to support those bravely battling both cancer and financial hardship this holiday season. Your compassionate gift could be the spark of hope they desperately need. You can learn more, get involved or make a donation to Heartland Cancer Foundation at heartlandcancerfoundation.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

After successful Fall, Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra Looks Forward to 2024 Spring Season Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra (LSO) presented nine concerts in its Fall 2023 season, and looks forward to seven more in the Spring. Compose Your Own Subscriptions are still available, as are single tickets. Mahler’s “Resurrection” Symphony opened the season to one of LSO’s largest ever opening night audiences. In October, LSO presented the orchestral premier of Dawning by Layale Chaker and Kinan Azmeh, performed the first of the season’s two Family Concerts and welcomed nearly 5,000 fourth through sixth grade students to the Lied Center for their annual Young People’s Concerts. Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons delighted another large audience in November, and December began with LSO’s annual “Deck the Halls.” The Spring 2024 season includes the introduction of LSO’s new Composer-In-Residence, Elena Ruehr, with her composition Unquiet Earth. LSO presents several regional premieres, including James Lee III’s Courageous Lights for English horn, featuring LSO’s Darci Gamerl; Groovebox Fantasy by Kenji Bunch; and Damian Montano’s Concerto for Piccolo, Contrabassoon, and Orchestra, performed by LSO’s Rebecca Van de Bogart and Joyce Besch. 15-time GRAMMY award winner Béla Fleck performs his own Juno Concerto and a new transcription of Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue for banjo and orchestra. Brahms’s Piano Concerto No. 1, performed by Mark Clinton, and Maurice Ravel’s arrangement of Modest Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition complete the season. Visit lincolnsymphony.com, email info@lincolnsymphony.com or call (402) 476-2211 for more information about LSO.

Family Health Services Raises Awareness for World AIDS Day December 1 World AIDS Day is December 1 – do you know your status? Family Health Services offers free HIV and STI/STD tests to whoever needs them. Their caring and comprehensive providers are available Monday-Friday in Lincoln for all your reproductive health needs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) approximates 1.2 million people in the U.S. living with HIV and about 13% are unaware. Though there is currently no effective cure for HIV, with proper treatment and early diagnosis, people living with HIV have roughly the same life expectancy as their HIV-negative peers. You can’t protect yourself if you don’t know what to look for. Sometimes it can be hard to tell if you need to get tested for HIV or an STI/STD (symptoms vary and some infections do not have any symptoms). If you or your partners have any of the symptoms of an STI/STD – or if you’re worried at all that you may have contracted one – you should go ahead and get tested! Family Health Services is a nonprofit healthcare organization that serves people in nine southeast Nebraska counties. Patients can get reproductive healthcare on an income-based sliding fee basis. More than half of the 1,500 patients that Family Health Services cares for every year are uninsured or underinsured, which qualifies them for free or reduced-price services. The clinic also accepts most private insurance, Medicaid and Every Woman Matters. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit LoveSafely.com or call (402) 466-1012. DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business 41

NONPROFIT NEWS Tabitha’s S2age Living’s First Residents Connect Scooters Coffee Brews Up Generosity for Lincoln TeamMates Nebraska nonprofit Tabitha launched its most ambitious project yet – S2age Living opened its doors to welcome residents, or “Sowers,” into the first-of-its-kind in the nation community in November. Construction is complete on one of two phases of the building at the corner of S. 48th and ‘L’ Streets in the heart of Lincoln’s Witherbee neighborhood. Older adults (55+) and College of Health Sciences students call this innovative option home. S2age is filled with bright and airy spaces designed to foster resident interaction. Indoor and outdoor gathering spots such as the yoga and technology innovation studios, TV lounge, café, pet run and rooftop terrace, complete with fire pits, are perfect for sharing. Aubrey Paulsen, Director of S2age added, “Combining the two demographics – seniors and college students – as intentional neighbors is a great fit with so many benefits. Each bring their own special talents and personalities to the table and can support one another. Think of a retired nurse helping a student prep for an exam and, in turn, a student helping a senior neighbor troubleshoot technology. We can’t wait to foster these meaningful relationships.” Limited apartments are currently available, ideal for those seeking involvement in a community along with a low-maintenance lifestyle. To explore S2age’s many amenities and view floorplans, visit www. Tabitha.org/LiveAtSage. As the state’s quality award-winning expert for older adults, nonprofit Tabitha empowers people to live joyfully, age gratefully. Tabitha is Your Answer; learn more at Tabitha.org.

Tom Osborne, former Head Coach of the Husker football team and Co-Founder of TeamMates enjoyed coffee and a personal tour of a popular Scooters Coffee drive thru on September 26. Giving the tour was Scooters Co-Owner Jason Metcalf. The Metcalf Family, owning and operating 18 Lincoln stores, and Manzitto Family, owning and operating two Lincoln stores, both support the Osborne-founded TeamMates Mentoring in a great way. On September 26, all 20 Lincoln Scooters locations donated 10% of their sales to Lincoln TeamMates. TeamMates would like to thank both the Metcalf and Manzitto families for their generous support. Osborne shared appreciation and stories, highlighting the impact of mentoring to Metcalf by sharing story after story of the “ripple effect” that transforms entire families; the more mentors, the more impact. The Lincoln chapter of TeamMates aims to add 360 new mentors this school year, and Scooter’s generous donation helps the behind-the-scenes work toward reaching that goal. Metcalf shared, “TeamMates’ values line up with Scooter's and it's a privilege to be able to partner and help support their mission." Following the coffee consumption and lively conversation, Jason Metcalf concluded, "It's a privilege to be able to support organizations that have a passion for people and their development.” Will you and your business partner with Lincoln TeamMates to impact the community through mentoring? There are many ways you can help. Contact Jim Bennett at (402) 436-1990 for more information about partnering with TeamMates. Additional information can also be found at LincolnTeammates.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Fresh Start Launches Adopt-A-Resident Program for the Holiday Season

Junior Achievement of Lincoln Completes Annual SPARK Halloween Event

Fresh Start is kicking off their annual Adopt-A-Resident program for the 2023 holiday season. They are encouraging people with a giving heart to help the women at the shelter feel more at home this holiday season. Many residents have families that live far away, and many others don't have family at all. Fresh Start serves women experiencing homelessness who may stay at the residence for up to a year while they address various condition and help them to achieve independence. "Many of our residents do not have happy holiday memories. When the community gives them presents, it’s about more than the gift itself. It’s showing them that people do care about them and want them to have a positive holiday experience,” said Fresh Start Executive Director Monica Zinke. Gifts are needed for shelter residents as well as program alumna who have recently moved into their new homes. Anyone can help – churches, clubs, businesses or individuals. Willing donors can contact Program Coordinator Meg Damme at (402) 475-7777 or by email at megd@freshstarthome.org. The donor will be given a woman’s wish list for Christmas. Their top requests for gifts include personal items like gift cards to Walmart and Bath & Body Works gift cards, VISA cards, movie tickets, slippers, robes, fuzzy blankets, hair straighteners, pots and pans and Tupperware. Since its establishment in 1991, Fresh Start has served over 1,800 women. Please visit freshstarthome.org or call (402) 475-7777 to learn more.

Junior Achievement (JA) of Lincoln just completed its annual SPARK event on Halloween at the University of Nebraska Lincoln’s East Campus Union. This event brought in more than 200 local high school students from all across eastern and central Nebraska for a day long entrepreneurial workshop. Students heard from four local entrepreneurs on topics related to creating, operating and marketing a small business. Speakers for this year’s event included: Mike Gray Vice President and Sale Executive with FNIC, Katie Becker Owner Operator Tasty Good Toffee, Bo Jones Founder and President/CEO Tru-Built Construction and TradeGamz, and Adam Kroft Partner and CEO redthread. Each student team then competed in a “Shark-Tak” like business plan competition with the winning team coming from Lincoln North Star High School. JA of Lincoln’s SPARK event is just one of many ways in which JA of Lincoln impacts students with programs and lessons in financial literacy, career readiness and entrepreneurship, all at no cost to schools or students. Last year, JA of Lincoln impacted more than 24,000 students in their mission to help students realize and achieve their future economic success. They would not be able to complete this without the dedication of amazing community volunteers, local sponsors and local donors. If you are interested in making a donation to Junior Achievement of Lincoln, please use the QR code. To learn more about how you can get involved, please visit lincoln.ja.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Doug Peterson Speaks at November CBMC Luncheon Doug Peterson, former Nebraska Attorney General, was the guest speaker at the November Lincoln CBMC Business Connection Luncheon. Over 60 people gathered at the Hilton Garden Inn to hear Mr. Peterson share about his journey to being elected as the 32nd Nebraska Attorney General in 2014 and his time in office through 2022. In his role as Attorney General, Peterson worked closely with law enforcement agencies across the State to ensure that Nebraska communities are safe. Peterson’s office supported strengthened legislation and enforcement in the areas of human trafficking, prosecution of child sexual assault and abuse and consumer protection laws to safeguard all Nebraskans. Peterson also shared about his personal life growing up in Lincoln and the impact of family and several Christian organizations in his spiritual life. He came to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as his Savior and Lord after a series of circumstances deeply impacted him. He also shared how his faith in God impacted his life in public office. CBMC equips men in the marketplace to grow personally, professionally and spiritually. Lincoln CBMC is part of a global ministry in over 330 cities in the U.S. and 100 countries. CBMC offers Christian peer advisory groups for business owners and leaders, young professionals’ groups, one-on-one mentoring, Bible studies, leadership development and events. Information about CBMC can be found at lincoln.cbmc.com. You can connect with them at (402) 204-1997 or on Facebook (@cbmclincolnne).

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AOI Chooses Angels Among Us as Annual Charity Partner In early 2023, the AOI Gives committee met with a few local organizations to learn about the organization, their mission and how they drive impact to the community. As a group, Angels Among Us touched many of the AOI staff personally. “We knew that this wouldn’t be a ‘what can I do now,’ but ‘what can I get behind for the future too,’” said Heather Stauffer, Account Manager at AOI. This committee hosted at Golf Tournament in September, a Walk-athon in October and a Toy Drive in November, which raised nearly $25,000 for Angels Among Us’ mission. Chris Hill, President of AOI, talks about the importance of giving back, “AOI Gives is an employee-led initiative, whereby individuals from throughout the organization work together to determine how we can help our community; ideally where there are volunteer opportunities that allow us to work side-by-side to make a difference. Our 2023 team explored a variety of organizations, but it was Angels Among Us that resonated the most. The local impact, ways in which families are supported and the opportunities to engage aligned the AOI team in a powerful way. Many of our employees have been impacted by a cancer diagnoses and knowing that Angels Among Us is there to help is comforting and inspiring.” If you are interested in learning more or getting involved with Angels Among Us, please contact Aly Goedeken at alyssa@ myangelsamongus.org / (402) 934-0999.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Nebraska Folklife Honors Founding Director Gwendolyn Meister and Recaps 20th Anniversary As Nebraska Folklife (NF) concludes a year filled with diverse events and successful fundraisers, the organization expresses a heartfelt appreciation to everyone who supported and attended in any way. In 2023, marking its 20th year, Nebraska Folklife expanded on creating connections across Lincoln, Omaha and Nebraska as a whole, participating in events such as Cars, Culture, & Coffee, Give to Lincoln Day, New American Arts Festival, Celebrate Heritage and the annual co-hosting of Dia De Los Muertos. Nebraska Folklife would like to dedicate this press release to Gwendolyn Meister, fondly known as Gwen, who was a trailblazing force and founding member since 2003. Gwen's legacy transcends her role as Executive Director; she embodied the heart and soul of the organization. With a Master’s in Cultural Anthropology, Gwen devoted over two decades to preserving Nebraska’s cultural heritage as a folklorist. Gwen’s impact reached far and wide, from assisting Rufus White in achieving the NEA’s National Heritage Fellowship in 2014 to her contributions to the film “Dutch Hop.” Her visionary leadership extended to projects like Cultural Trunks, showcasing the diverse cultures within Nebraska. NF expresses deep gratitude to Gwen for her passion, wisdom and vibrant spirit. Her legacy continues to shape the organization’s commitment to cultural appreciation. Thank you, Gwen! For more information and to get involved with Nebraska Folklife, please visit nebraskafolklife.org.

Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum Hosts Veterans Day Event On November 11, the Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum (SAC) hosted a special event to honor all those who have served in our nation's military. The Veterans Day event was all about remembering the brave men and women who had made the ultimate sacrifice. The comm unity came together to participate in the event, which featured special performances by a military band and inspiring stories shared by various speakers. Prominent among the speakers were individuals representing the Wounded Warrior Project and passionate advocates for Veteran mental health and suicide awareness. It was a heartfelt and memorable day, bringing people together to pay tribute to those who have served their nation with dedication and courage. The SAC Aerospace Museum’s continued success and impact relies on the support of individuals and the community. Supporters not only help preserve our aerospace heritage but also help ignite curiosity, inspire young minds and shape the future of aviation. To learn more about the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum, go online to sacmuseum.org or call the Museum at (402) 944-3100. For group admission pricing and to schedule a private tour, contact the event coordinator at events@sacmuseum.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska Hosting Holiday Events at Gateway Mall

Mourning Hope Grief Center Partners with First Plymouth Congregational Church to Host The Spirit of Giving

Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska will be hosting three holiday events in December. All events are located in the common area behind Scooter’s at Gateway Mall. For event updates and registration information, follow Goodwill on Facebook @ LincolnGoodwill or visit www.lincolngoodwill. org. On Sunday, December 3, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and Saturday, December 16, from 1 to 3 p.m., Goodwill will host Letters to Santa Workshops. Goodwill will supply secondhand cards, paper, markers, ribbons and more for kids to write down their holiday wishes and mail a letter to Santa himself. Goodwill will also invite event-attendees to create a holiday themed craft. These workshops are made possible by Goodwill’s Bits and Pieces: a section in their stores that meets all crafting needs from utensils to ribbon, jewelry to glue. On Monday, December 11, from 5 to 7 p.m., Goodwill is joining Gateway Mall’s Paws and Claus event. Dogs are invited to take a photo with Santa, and owners are invited to create an environmentally friendly toy using secondhand textiles from Goodwill. For 91 years, Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. has been strengthening the Lincoln community by providing services for individuals who face barriers to employment and by offering residents an outlet for recycling unused household items and clothing. For more information, visit www.lincolngoodwill.org.

The Mourning Hope Grief Center is honored to partner with First Plymouth Congregational Church to host The Spirit of Giving for bereaved children and their caregivers. Thanks to the community at First Plymouth, grieving kids served by Mourning Hope have a special night dedicated to helping them celebrate the spirit of giving and bring comfort to their caregivers. First Plymouth’s congregation has generously donated a wide variety of gifts for participating children to “shop” for something to give their remaining caregiver. While the children select and wrap gifts, caregivers receive guided meditation and complimentary chair massages and learn strategies for self-care during the holidays. This invitation-only event is free of c harge to Mourning Hope’s participants, thanks to the generosity of First Plymouth Congregational Church. The holiday season can be especially challenging for those who have experienced the death of someone significant in their lives. Typical celebrations with family and loved ones can feel draped with reminders of the loss. When a parent or primary caregiver has died, children often face obstacles in purchasing and wrapping gifts for their surviving caregiver. Children may feel stuck when they try to find a suitable gift to bring joy when life is particularly heavy. For more information about Mourning Hope Grief Center, visit mourninghope.org or call (402) 488-8989.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Nebraska Safety Council Announces Special Pricing for Small Business The Nebraska Safety Council (NESC) offers new member pricing tiered to offer a competitive price for employers of all sizes. An annual membership includes free benefits and discounts on several training courses and services. The discount on training often pays for an annual membership. Membership rates start as low as $99 annually. “We are pleased to offer pricing at an affordable price for all employers. Now is a great time to kick start 2024 and commit to keeping your employees safe and healthy,” said Samantha Gentry, Development Manager at Nebraska Safety Council. “Our goal is to partner with businesses and integrate our unique Worker 360° approach, which provides integrated risk management, reduces health and injury-related costs, boosts worker engagement and improves overall quality of life.” Free Benefits Include: A one-hour road safety presentation, unlimited consultation calls (safety and wellness), access to 1,500+ training modules on video streaming, one free lunch and learn annually (safety and wellness), two-hour safety walk-through, select cultivating community programs at no-cost, a worker 360 risk assessment and more. Sign Up and Receive FREE Benefits in December: When you sign up for a membership this month, you will receive FREE benefits for the rest of 2023. Referral Program: Refer another business and receive a $75 coupon if they become a member. This coupon is valid for a variety of safety training courses. All new members receive a $75 coupon. To learn more about NESC or to sign up for membership today, visit nesafetycouncil.org, call (402) 483-2511 or email nesc@ nesafetycouncil.org.

HopeSpoke’s Annual Report Shows How Community Support Helps Children in Crisis I n t h e p a s t ye a r, nearly 900 individuals received care through HopeSpoke’s mental health ser vices for children, teens and families. HopeSpoke’s latest annual report (hopespoke.org/about) shows the difference community support makes in the lives of youth in crisis. HopeSpoke provides outpatient therapy in-office, via telehealth or within 16 Lincoln Public Schools; after-school programming for children with trauma-related behavioral challenges; a therapeutic group home for teen boys; and suicide assessments, counseling and case management for youth detained at Lancaster County’s Youth Services Center. While 75% of clients treated last year were under age 19, HopeSpoke provides therapy services for adults as well. Families who seek help at HopeSpoke face income-related barriers to accessing mental health services. Your donations will help more young people find paths to healthy, hopeful futures in the coming year; visit hopespoke.org/donate to help support HopeSpoke’s mission. In 2024, HopeSpoke celebrates 75 years of inspiring healthy futures for children and their families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health services. For more information, visit hopespoke. org or call (402) 475-7666. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Year End Needs at The Bridge Behavioral Health During this holiday season, The Bridge is focused on giving clients essentials and a few surprises too. There is a current need for men’s underwear (sizes M-3XL), t-shirts (sizes XL-4XL), sweatpants (sizes M-3XL) and cold weather gear (hats, gloves and long johns). Gift cards for coffee and fast food meals are also appreciated. Donations can be made at any time by visiting www.thebridgenebraska.org. The Bridge Behavioral Health is open 24/7, 365 days a year. Their mission is to provide hope and a strong foundation for recovery through substance use and behavioral health intervention. Learn more at thebridgenebraska.org.

Toy Giveaway for Kids at People’s City Mission’s Help Center December 14 This year, kids who are staying at People’s City Mission (PCM) and kids from impoverished families who shop at the Help Center will once again have a fun Christmas surprise. “Santa’s Workshop” will be held Thursday, December 14, and will be a time where guests of the Mission and families in need from the community can shop for free for Christmas presents – gift wrapping will be provided as well. Santa will also be there! All of the toys are donated by individuals, businesses and organizations from around the Lincoln area. Anyone who would like to donate a new toy for this event during People’s City Mission’s annual Toy Drive can drop them off at the Help Center at 6800 P St. or the Shelter at 110 Q St. All donations need to be received by December 8 to be included in the giveaways. As Lincoln’s homeless shelter, People’s City Mission’s work is more than 97% funded by community donations. For more information or to donate, visit pcmlincoln.org.

Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln Announces Repairs Program Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln announces the official launch of their Repairs Program, a home critical repairs program for lower income homeowners in Lancaster County. Qualified applicants will be able to receive a zero-interest loan to pay for the cost of critical repairs for their homes. Critical repairs include leaky roofs, HVAC systems, water heaters and inadequate windows. Habitat will help coordinate the loan and the repair itself. Habitat plans on using a mix of subcontractors and volunteers to complete the repairs. Homeowners need to qualify for the program which means that their income would need to fall between 30-80% of the area median income. They would need to live in the home that they own and agree to partner with Habitat on the project. Not all applicants will be approved for the program. More information about Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln can be found at LincolnHabitat.org. DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business 47

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NONPROFIT NEWS Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach Provides Special Meals During the Holiday Season Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach provides a safe space for hope and community, especially during the holiday season. In November, the Director of Hunger Relief and Volunteerism, Victoria O’Neil, worked with families who needed assistance with their Thanksgiving meal to provide a meal kit, which included a variety of traditional Thanksgiving foods. On Thanksgiving Day, a volunteer Hunger Relief team provided and served the Thanksgiving feast. In December, the organization will host Holiday Around the World on Thursday, December 21. Foods from various cultures will be offered to guests from local restaurants along with other activities. On both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, volunteers will be serving meals for lunch (11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) and dinner (5:30-6:30 p.m.). All are welcome! Community members have worked with staff to provide assistance during the holidays for individuals and families in Matt Talbot's housing programs. Clients have received assistance with basic needs, transportation, furniture, clothing and Christmas presents for their children. Donations of gift cards in any amount to local grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, Walmart or Target are needed for housing clients. Please contact Leanne Pelser, Director of Housing and Outreach, at (402) 817-0613 or leanne.pelser@mtko.org with questions or for more information. For the past 31 years, Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach has been helping individuals and families facing poverty and homelessness find possibilities when things seem impossible. Learn more at mtko.org.

Nebraska Community Foundation’s 2023 Annual Report Now Available Nebraska Community Foundation’s 2023 Annual Report is here! This year, they are celebrating the dreams that have fueled reinvestments of over half a BILLION dollars into our Nebraska communities. They hope you’ll be inspired by this report and all the good news emanating from ambitious Nebraskans doing their part to make our hometowns the places the next generation calls home. To download the full report, visit www.nebcommfound.org/news. Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) is a tax-exempt public charity in accordance with Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. NCF is governed by a volunteer board of directors made up of a diverse group of community leaders from across the state. NCF board and staff are committed to good governance practices, transparency and accountability to the communities, organizations and donors they serve. Nebraska Community Foundation unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. In the last ﬁve years, 45,993 contributions have been made to Nebraska Community Foundation and its afﬁliated funds. Since 1994, Nebraska Community Foundation has reinvested $517 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Match Opportunity Grows in Campaign Supporting Community Action’s Gathering Place Soup Kitchen Now through December 31, gifts to Community Action’s Gathering Place soup kitchen are being matched $1 for $1 thanks to a variety of local funders. Recently, Nebraska Presbyterian Foundation contributed additional dollars to the match pool. “We are so thankful to Nebraska Presbyterian Foundation for joining as a sponsor of this campaign,” said Heather Loughman, Community Action’s CEO. “At a time when we need community support more than ever, our match sponsors are stepping up to fight hunger in Lincoln. Thank you to our sponsors, as well as those who have already contributed to the campaign, for the tremendous support shown so far.” Nebraska Presbyterian Foundation joins several additional sponsors including lead sponsor, Acklie Charitable Foundation; Miriam Moeller Charitable Trust; Union Bank and Trust; Bukaty Companies; INSPRO, a Marsh McLennan Agency; Sue Quambusch and others. The campaign aims to raise $200,000 total to support the Gathering Place’s work throughout the year. Donations will be matched $1 for $1 through December 31. To give, visit www.communityactionatwork.org or mail contributions to: Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties Attn: The Gathering Place 210 O St. Lincoln, NE 68508. Fo r m o r e i n fo r m a t i o n a b o u t C o m m u n i t y A c t i o n , v i s i t communityactionatwork.org.

Alyssa Christensen Leads Teen Healthy Relationship Group with Voices of Hope Alyssa Christensen, Groups/Prevention Coordinator at Voices of Hope, is taking the lead on facilitating their Teen Healthy Relationship Group for youth that are either at risk of or have experience in unhealthy relationships. This group is co-facilitated with a school social worker. In this group, youth is involved in conversations about equality, the power and control wheel, boundaries, consent and more. Alyssa’s favorite part of leading this group is “allowing youth to express ways that relationships are modeled to them and how they can change those patterns.” Teen Healthy Relationship Groups are held at East High School on Wednesday’s during school hours and will soon be available at Lincoln Southwest High School. For more information about the program, Alyssa can be reached at Alyssa@voicesofhopelincoln.org. Voices of Hope’s vision is that all survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, as well as their families and communities, receive responsive, empowering services and support that meet their needs, both individual and cultural, through advocacy and education aimed at eliminating recurrence, challenging oppressive social institutions and reducing violence and oppression. Learn more at voicesofhopelincoln.org. DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

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he Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is Lincoln’s leading business organization, representing member businesses across our community by providing advocacy and connections to help businesses grow and thrive in Lincoln. The Chamber is committed to being a collaborative partner in Lincoln’s success as a place of endless opportunities and works closely with our partner organizations to ensure our community is the very best place to live, work and play. We provide members with opportunities that will help them explore new avenues to help them grow their businesses through networking, advocating for pro-growth policies at the local, state and federal levels and connecting them to the community and each other. We feel incredible opportunities exist for all kinds of businesses in Lincoln, whether they’re big, small or somewhere in between and we remain committed to helping all businesses grow and succeed. Looking to the future, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is committed to a long-term growth plan for our community, outlined in our Vitality Lincoln strategy. This plan outlines a vision for Lincoln’s economic future and how to achieve it, capitalizing on community assets in order to position Lincoln as a growth leader, business-friendly, culturally inclusive, a magnet for talent, a recognized destination and a community that will partner collaboratively.

TESTIMONIALS The first check Five Nines ever wrote after we started as a business in 2006 was to become a member of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. There is no other single payment we have ever made which has produced such a long term and sustainable return on our investment. Being a member of the Chamber has provided many opportunities for us as a business and also bolstered our local reputation. It is the most impactful first step we could have taken as an organization and we are forever grateful to the Chamber for the benefits we have received.

James Bowen, Five Nines I always look forward to Chamber events, not only because they are well-coordinated, timely and relevant, but because of the amazing people who attend them. The Chamber brings together the best intellectual and human capital in Lincoln who care about creating a strong and vibrant future in our communities. The Chamber also did an exceptional job adapting through the pandemic and doing so with the utmost professionalism, technical prowess and style. Bravo!

Amy Kloefkorn, University of Nebraska Foundation.

AWARDS & RECOGNITION The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is a 5-star accredited Chamber of Commerce, one of 146 chambers across the United States to carry this distinction. This accreditation and certification by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce signifies that the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce has continued to show its dedication to reviewing, improving and promoting strong business practices; recognizing leadership and outstanding contributions to the community; supporting the principles of free enterprise and promoting pro-growth policies at local, state and federal levels; and establishing best practices and staying in-step with industry changes. The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce has been a proud member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce since 1920 and continues to be on the cutting edge of development and service to our community through its mission, expertise and strong leadership.

402.436.2350 1128 Lincoln Mall, Suite 100, Lincoln NE 68508

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Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

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LINCOLN INDEPENDENT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION by Bud Synhorst, President

(402) 466-3419 • www.liba.org

Reflection and Thanks This will be my final article as President & CEO of LIBA. I have always subscribed to the philosophy of why the rearview mirror is so small and the windshield is so big, giving us the opportunity to have a wide view of what is ahead of us and a small view of what is behind us. However, this month, I think it is time to look in the rearview mirror over the past four years. A little over four-and-a-half years ago, we lost our friend, Coby Mach. This news hit me hard as both a friend of Coby and a member of LIBA. Coby recruited me to be a member of LIBA in 2013 and we became quick friends, sharing our interests in politics and bourbon. Coby was always there to help. During the selection process, at times it was awkward to be interviewing for a position to replace a close friend. When the position was offered to me, it was surreal. Coming to work each day in his office was an adjustment, and an honor at the same time. Fast forward to about six months after beginning my position at LIBA, a pandemic hit the world and we had to adjust our operations hour by hour and day by day. During the pandemic, my focus for LIBA was to make sure we were available to anyone who needed help navigating the changing factors in the pandemic. One project we engaged in early in the pandemic was establishing a web site “Nebraska Buy Local” where consumers could support local businesses by purchasing gift cards to help local businesses. Unfortunately, we lost several local businesses during the pandemic. Coming out of the pandemic, our members were steadfast in their desire to get back to networking and connect with fellow business owners. LIBA delivered this opportunity for them. LIBA had the last major event going into the pandemic and the first major event coming out of the pandemic. As business owners were getting back to their activities, we started hosting educational sessions to address workforce issues to help business owners develop strategies for moving forward in a new environment. Shortly after, LIBA formed a partnership with The Career Academy. The LIBA/TCA partnership has provided business owners with opportunities such as career fairs, job fairs and a recent pathway summit. To connect the business community with trained individuals to meet their workforce needs was a great success. Over the course of these connections hundreds of TCA students have been able to get jobs where they are putting their skills to work and filling essential workforce needs for local business. When LIBA started 43+ years ago the goal was to be the voice of small business in our community. I am proud to say today, we continue to be the voice of small business. LIBA has established a presence with the City Council, County Board, LPS Board, Nebraska Legislature and several other areas to articulate the voice of business and the issues facing business today. Moving forward, I want to share a heartfelt message of thanks to our members for their continued support of LIBA. Your commitment, dedication and loyalty to LIBA and the local business community is inspiring. I look forward to continuing my membership with LIBA as I move forward in my own business. As I am sure you can all relate, stepping out into my own business comes with a whole new level of excitement, anticipation, and nervousness. Yet without the support of my wife Nikki and our family, this would not be possible. Finally, a word of thanks to our elected officials in the community. Whether we agreed or not, we had civil conversations and were always able to come back to the table time and again to discuss issues. Wishing you all the best down the road. Onward! LIBA studies and promotes these types of issues that are important to businesses and our community. If you have an interest in joining, please call LIBA at (402) 466-3419. LIBA membership is not restricted to just businesses. We also have “individual” memberships for those who want to help influence our local government decisions.

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Strawberry Springs Pool and Spa ThursdayPools.com

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Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

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DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION Count on us for EVERY Season (402) 434-6900 • downtownlincoln.org by Todd Ogden, President Display Your Ads on the Digital Kiosk

In 2022, the Downtown Lincoln Association installed an interactive digital kiosk on the corner of 14th and P St. outside of Raising Cane’s. The touchscreen kiosk allows tourists and local Lincolnites to discover what’s new in Downtown Lincoln. The kiosk can display the Downtown Lincoln event calendar, text you directions to your favorite venues, bars and shops, and introduce you to your next favorite Downtown spot. Use it to help narrow down your options and navigate you to the business of your choosing instantly. The Downtown Lincoln Association partnered with Nanonation, a local software company that specializes in digital signage, to create a working relationship with our website. Any updates to our website will automatically show up on the digital kiosk. When the kiosk is not in use, it cycles through a slideshow of submitted upcoming events around the area. Whether you have an upcoming showcase, book reading or trivia night, you can submit your art to the digital kiosk in just one simple step. Email us your poster at kiosk@downtownlincoln.org! It’s that simple. The kiosk screen is 1080 x 1920, but this digital kiosk can display any size of poster with a little help. The only criteria is that your event has to be located in Downtown Lincoln. All applicable posters will be automatically submitted to the digital kiosk and displayed after one business day. The digital kiosk receives an average of 68 sessions per day at four-and-a-half minutes a session. Since being placed a little over a year ago, the kiosk has had over 25,000 sessions in total. Don’t have something digital? We’ve got you covered. Display your physical copies in our DIY posting cases along O St. There are five spots to pin up your ads: 11th & O, 12th & O, 13th & O, between 14th and Centennial Mall in front of Yia Yia’s and between 14th and Centennial Mall in front of C Berry’s. Some businesses also have a place to display your local event’s poster or flier. Submit your posters today!

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Founded in 1967, the Downtown Lincoln Association provides services and champions initiatives for maintaining and enhancing our vibrant downtown. Our vision is to create an energetic downtown environment where we live, learn, work, invest and play. DLA has evolved into a multi-faceted organization supporting a wide range of programs and activities including maintenance, economic development and advocacy. For a complete listing of downtown businesses, events and residences visit downtownlincoln.org. ‘Like’ us on Facebook at facebook.com/downtownlincoln.

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Stop by our location in Legacy Square today! 8101 O St., Suite 302 • AccessFamilyMedicine.com • 402-858-1510

DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT 54

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

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LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE by Jason Ball President

(402) 436-2350 www.lcoc.com

Empowering Women in Business: Celebrating a Successful Year of RISE 2023 has been an exciting year for the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. In addition to launching our Vitality Lincoln strategic plan and partnering with the Nebraska Military Department and the Lincoln Airport Authority to host the Guardians of Freedom Airshow, we also significantly expanded our programming for the women of Lincoln’s business community. Through the support of the JoAnn Martin Leadership Legacy Endowment and the announcement of the Lincoln Chamber taking on RISE as one of our programs, we enthusiastically hosted five unique events as a platform for women to connect, learn and grow. In January, it became clear that RISE was something special; something the women of Lincoln were passionate about and something our team was honored to offer to the business community. Over 125 women gathered at Ameritas for our first RISE event to learn from each other and elevate their connections. It was the perfect launch for RISE and set the tone for what would be a successful year, which included a RISE & Give event hosted by Lutz and Lincoln Community Foundation, an opportunity to support woman-owned businesses with a market at Haymarket Park hosted by NEBCO and a panel discussion at Duncan Aviation featuring women in traditionally male-dominated industries, presented by the Harriet Petersen Fort Heritage Fund. We were also excited to grow our complimentary RISE coaching communities, adding new certified coaches and offering women the opportunity to elevate their professional growth through the power of coaching. Throughout the year, 10 coaching communities of 8 – 12 women were led by the RISE certified professional coaches, focused on a variety of topics relevant to professional development. By continuing to add new professional coaches for this program, we were better positioned to meet the growing demand for this unique component of RISE. We extend our gratitude to our RISE coaches, who dedicate their time and expertise to make our coaching communities possible. Learn more at riselincoln.org/coaching. We were also honored to receive support from the JoAnn Martin Leadership Legacy Endowment for our annual Women in Business event. This endowment was established under the stewardship of the Lincoln Community Foundation in honor of one of Lincoln’s greatest business leaders to support the women of Lincoln in business and leadership roles. This endowment helped to fund our keynote speaker, Change Enthusiasm Global CEO Cassandra Worthy, at our Women in Business event, which we host each year in partnership with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Business. We are grateful to the family of JoAnn Martin for their support in honor of JoAnn’s unparalleled leadership. We are proud to serve the business community of Lincoln; a community with a strong history of remarkable women in leadership roles. Taking on RISE as a new Chamber program and receiving the support of the JoAnn Martin Leadership Legacy Endowment has helped our team to significantly expand our investment in the future of women in our community. We are looking forward to an incredible lineup of RISE events in 2024 and encourage all women who are interested in learning more to visit riselincoln.org.

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

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Energy efficiency Energy efficiency is a vital component of a sustainable future. It involves the responsible and economical use of energy resources to reduce waste, lower greenhouse gas emissions and save on utility costs. By optimizing our buildings, transportation systems and industrial processes to consume less energy while still meeting our needs, we can significantly lessen our environmental impact. Energy-efficient technologies, such as LED lighting and smart thermostats, play a crucial role in this endeavor, and the professionals of Lincoln best know how to implement energyefficient technologies to help us out. In today's world, there is a growing emphasis among building owners on creating environmentally responsible working spaces. However, they are increasingly recognizing the importance of optimizing energy usage without compromising the comfort of occupants. Lighting and HVAC systems are two major contributors to a building's energy consumption. They play a crucial role in creating a comfortable and well-lit environment for occupants, but they also represent a significant portion of a building's operational costs. It's estimated that these systems can collectively account for up to 80% of a building's total energy usage. Given the substantial impact of lighting and HVAC on a building's energy footprint, Engineered Controls recognizes the importance of implementing effective energy management strategies. To achieve this, they utilize their Building Automation System, a sophisticated technology that allows for the centralized control and optimization of these critical systems. To support customers in identifying areas where efficiency can be improved within their buildings, Engineered Controls utilizes Energy Optimization programs. These programs leverage a diverse array

Sustainable Energy Program Get money to purchase qualified energy-efficient equipment for your home or business with the LES Sustainable Energy Program. Save energy. Save money. Visit LES.com/SEP or call 402.475.4211 for more details. LES.COM/SEP

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

of energy-efficient products and solutions and are overseen by their team of knowledgeable professionals. Pat Killeen, the Owner of Engineered Controls, shared the program's objective: "The aim is to provide building owners and managers with real-world data to make informed decisions that not only enhance the comfort of occupants but also reduce energy consumption." Engineered Controls is dedicated to delivering high-quality products and services that establish efficient, safe and comfortable building environments. By collaborating with Engineered Controls, customers can count on achieving optimal results while contributing to energy conservation efforts. Heating is another major energy suck, and with winter right around the corner, many of us are about to see its impact. Here are some simple steps that LES recommends to help you stay comfortable this winter and keep your energy costs at a comfortable level. Maintain your heating system: Hire a qualified professional to inspect and clean your heating system. If your system is older or in need of repair, consider upgrading to an ENERGY STAR®-certified electric heat pump. Air-source heat pumps draw heat out of the air to provide highly efficient heating and cooling in one unit. Make a thermostat adjustment: While everyone has their own comfort level, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends a temperature setting of 68°F to save energy while staying comfortable. To save even more, lower the temperature setting a few degrees overnight or when no one is at home. Install a smart, iprogrammable thermostat with remote control to optimize savings, comfort and convenience. Weatherize your home: Check for gaps around windows and exterior doors and seal any you find with caulk or weatherstripping. If you suspect that your home is poorly insulated, contact a qualified insulation contractor to inspect your home and ensure that it is properly insulated according to recommended levels. “Now is a perfect time to get a home energy audit,” shared Amy Svoboda with LES. “A qualified energy professional will inspect your home and provide you with a targeted set of cost-saving recommendations that will Amy Svoboda help lower your energy costs this winter and LES all year long.” Lincoln's experts specialize in implementing energy-efficient technologies crucial for a sustainable future. By tapping into their knowledge, we can significantly lower waste, greenhouse gas emissions and utility costs, making substantial strides towards a more sustainable environment. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STRICTLY BUSINESS UPCOMING EVENTS

FRIENDS It’s crazy to think 2023 is already coming to an end! For the last Friends4Lunch of 2023, we will be heading to Mi Tierra's Family Mexican Restaurant! Mark your calendars for December 8 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mi Tierra's is located at 8320 Northwoods Dr. They have something for everyone on their menu, and the best bean dip in town. We're stoked to share our love for this place! As always, these events are free to you – you only pay for what you order! We’ve been loving the energy you all have been bringing to our meetings recently, and we can’t wait to see you and your friends at the next one. If you have any questions, reach out to kacey@ strictlybusinessomaha.com | (402) 466-3330.

FRIENDS

Last Month Recap

DECEMBER BUSINESS EVENTS DECEMBER 1 First Friday Artwalk | The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel

DECEMBER 5 School Liaison Committee Meeting | LIBA Monthly Meeting | Lincoln Giving Spirits Evening Rotary Club Member Social - Zoo Lights | Lincoln HR

DECEMBER 6 Chamber Coffee | Lincoln Chamber

DECEMBER 7 Legislative Action Committee Meeting | LIBA The LNK | Lincoln Chamber Ugly Sweater Party | Center Sphere

DECEMBER 8 Friends for Lunch| Strictly Business

DECEMBER 9 ABC Christmas Party | Associated Builders and Contractors of Nebraska and South Dakota

DECEMBER 11 Membership Committee | LIBA

DECEMBER 15 Lincoln YPG Holiday Lunch | Lincoln Chamber

Screamers Family Restaurant 803 Q Street Suite 150, Lincoln, NE, 68508

screamersdining.com We had an amazing time at Screamer’s Family Restaurant for our last Friends4Drinks of 2023. We loved catching up with everyone and the upbeat environment was so fun – all the staff that performed did an amazing job. It really was a dining and entertainment experience like no other in Nebraska! Screamer’s is located in the Historic Haymarket at 803 Q St Suite 150.

DECEMBER 19 Monthly Luncheon | LIBA Monthly Meeting | Lincoln Giving Spirits Evening Rotary Club

For specific event details including time, location and contact information, visit our event calendar online at strictly-business.com/calendar-of-events. Don’t see your event? Submit your events on our calendar!

RSVP is encouraged for these events. Please let the Strictly Business team know if you plan to attend by calling (402) 466-3330, emailing office@strictlybusinessomaha.com or marking yourself as “Going” on the Facebook event pages. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

MADE LINCOLN IN

Do you know how many products are made locally? Lincoln boasts a diverse manufacturing landscape that significantly contributes to Nebraska’s economy. Our city is one of innovation and industriousness, and is home to countless manufacturing companies and local producers that cater to various industries. It’s crazy just how much we produce, and how much of what we produce we consume without realizing where it came from. The manufacturing/production scene in Lincoln extends its reach into various sectors, including automotive parts, construction materials, medical devices, aircraft components and countless agricultural products. Lincoln’s robust range of products and adaptability makes us a key player in the nation's production landscape. Beyond tangible products, Lincoln excels in the technology sector with production characterized by electronic components, circuit boards and software products. Lincoln’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the production of components for renewable energy systems like wind turbines and solar panels. As industries evolve and innovate, Lincoln will continue to be a beacon of manufacturing and production diversity, supporting a wide range of sectors with its skilled workforce and entrepreneurial spirit. 58

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

TMCO started as a machining company and has since expanded production capabilities to include sheet metal and tube fabrication, waterjet, welding, powder coating and assembly. TMCO delivers turn-key solutions, which eliminates the need to send parts out for third-party processing, cuts down on lead times and ensures quality at every step. TMCO invests in the latest manufacturing technology, helping produce parts faster and more efficiently for our customers. The level of automation and capacity for lights-out production also gives TMCO a competitive edge in the business of metal fabrication. Learn more at www.tmcoinc.com.

Lincoln Chrome believes nothing is more American than quality. That's why we are proud to be the industry's leading fully American-made manufacturer of chrome-plated heavy-duty stacks, bumpers and accessories. We take a start-to-finish approach to manufacturing our exhaust stacks and bumpers. The fabrication, polishing, plating and assembly all happens here in Lincoln to ensure the highest quality and consistency. Our Lincoln Chrome customers come to us from all over the US, Canada and Australia. They depend on us for quality products, excellent customer service and on-time delivery. With over 70 years in business, that's the only way we do it. For more information, visit www.lincolnchrome.com.

Dental Designs, a reputable family owned dental lab established in 1980, has been a stalwart in providing top-notch dental restorations to dentists across the nation. With a commitment to excellent communication and a strong work ethic, the company has thrived for over four decades. Notably, the main campus is rooted in Lincoln, where the company's headquarters has been situated since its inception. While a secondary location in Omaha was established in 2007, Dental Designs has expanded its reach with additional branches in Denver and Sioux Falls. Dental Designs distinguishes itself through a mission to deliver fixed and removable restorations of the highest quality, crafted with cutting-edge technology in their own laboratory. The company's dedication extends beyond product excellence, aiming to foster meaningful relationships with dentists to enhance patient lives and contribute value to their practices. With a growing presence in Lincoln, Omaha, Denver and Sioux Falls, Dental Designs stands ready to continue its tradition of exceptional service to dental offices nationwide. For more information, visit dentaldesignsinc.com.

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R.U. Nuts Company was started as a home-based bulk food business in Lincoln in the early 1980’s, and has grown to be a Midwest regional distributor. We are still locally owned and operated. Trail mixes were kind of a new thing in the market way back then, so we decided to get creative with our own gourmet recipes using high-quality ingredients that are mixed and packaged on site in our Lincoln distribution center. Tailgate mix, R.U. Berry Sweet Mix and Cross County have become some of our customer favorites. In clamshell packages, zip-top pouches or pillow-packs, R.U. Nuts Company can do custom mixing and private label packaging for grocers and convenience stores, or anyone else that wants to have their company name featured on a package. Find more information at runutsco.com. To receive $10 off your order of $40 or more, use the code STRICTLY10 (valid through December 31, 2023).

Ahroma Specialty Coffee was started by the R.U. Nuts Company in a ministorage in 1997, when small batch roasted specialty grade coffee was rare and expensive. The mission of Ahroma is to “bring the coffeehouse to your house” by making great coffee easily accessible in the grocery store at an affordable price. Today, Ahroma Coffee distributes freshly roasted coffee to grocery stores across Nebraska, and we also do custom roasting for coffee shops across the Midwest. Ahroma provides a “one-stop shop” where a coffee house owner can find all their menu products in one place at competitive prices. Customer all-time favorites are our Jamaican Me Crazy and Jingle Bell Java. Anyone, whether for business or for personal enjoyment, can buy our coffee or browse all of the blends and flavors we carry online at ahromacoffee.com. Check out our monthly featured roasts and flavors! To receive $10 off your order of $40 or more, use the code STRICTLY10 (valid through December 31, 2023).

Instinct Pet Food is proud to be made in Lincoln! For over 20 years, Instinct has been transforming the lives of pets with raw nutrition. They are dedicated to raw because raw, minimally processed food is more nutrient-dense than cooked food – it also provides unique health benefits. Instinct provides a range of raw options for dogs and cats, such as frozen raw meals, freeze-dried raw meals, raw + kibble recipes and raw toppers. Instinct’s frozen and freeze-dried raw diets are made in their company owned Lincoln facilities, with their corporate headquarters in St. Louis, MO. Instinct is proud to be sustainably expanding their footprint in Lincoln with a new Center of Excellence, which is designed to be LEED certified. This expansion is under construction currently! Read more about Instinct at www. instinctpetfood.com.

Founded in 1952, Mapes Industries manufactures and distributes aluminum products for the commercial construction industry. They currently operate from two Lincoln locations. Mapes Canopies are custom-designed and engineered to meet the needs of any application. Their Lumishade, Supershade and Lumideck systems are the most broadly used and specified commercial canopies in the country. Mapes Panels are built-to-spec laminated glazing solutions for use in windows, curtainwalls and storefront applications. Initially designed to improve the thermal efficiency of a building, their offering has expanded to include products that meet local and national building codes for sound, fire and impact resistance. Versatile and customizable, products from both divisions have defined their respective industry standards and continue to evolve to match the ever-changing needs in commercial construction. Currently under a fourth generation of family ownership and operation with over 100 employees, Mapes continues to be a thriving member of the Lincoln community. For more information, visit mapes.com.

Precision Custom Woodcraft is a manufacturer of commercial architectural casework, cabinets and mouldings. We handle everything from quotes and designs through delivery of the final product. Our small, but highly skilled team can handle projects of all sizes and complexity thanks to our large shop and vast range of manufacturing equipment. Custom projects – meaning cabinets and fixtures need to be modified to fit the exact space and specs required – have become a bit of our forte. We are able to take on highly specialized projects that other shops aren’t equipped or aren’t willing to do. This also applies to our custom moulding capabilities. Whether it’s arched casings and jambs or the ability to grind our own moulder knives in house, we can quickly custom match and produce almost any moulding. We pride ourselves on customer service and providing high quality products at a fair price. Learn more at precisioncustomwoodcraft.com.

Would your company like to be included in this feature? Call (402) 466-3330 or email our editor at shae@strictlybusinessomaha.com

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DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

Mental Health The stigma around mental health has improved in recent years due to increased awareness, advocacy and open conversations about the topic. However, it hasn't completely disappeared, and there is still work to be done to eliminate it entirely. Mental health professionals, along with individuals, communities and organizations, play a crucial role in this ongoing effort. Mental health professionals in Lincoln and beyond have been instrumental in reducing stigma by providing essential services, education and support to individuals dealing with mental health issues. They help empower individuals to seek help and treatment when needed, and they work to create an environment where people feel safe discussing their mental health concerns. A simple quote to a very complex dilemma is, “things don’t get better until you stop doing what doesn’t work.” To help others, you have to build a positive relationship – something that involves trust, unconditional positive regard, empathy, understanding and the allowance of a person to tell their story. A person’s mental health is a collective experience from early on with their family, friends and society. Their experiences influence how they feel and see themselves as well as others. They take their feelings into account when viewing and responding to the world, which leads to consequences that reinforce their basic concept of who they are. At People’s City Mission, their goal is to help people. According to Tim Harlan, Men’s Shelter Director, “Our goal as helpers is to interrupt that negative feedback loop and help them rewrite their scripts so they can make some progress on changing the things that aren’t working. Our job is to help them redefine how they feel about who they are. We want to challenge their misconceptions and the lies they have developed about themselves.” Tim Harlan Using the metaphor of "cleaning up People’s City Mission your room" as a way to encourage selfimprovement and personal growth is a powerful and relatable concept that People’s City Mission actively uses and promotes. It's drawn from the idea that our external environment, in this case, our physical living space, can be a reflection of our internal state of mind. As such, it is a starting point for disrupting self-destructive patterns and replacing them with healthier coping and life skills. When dealing with mental health, it is important to recognize the connection between mental and physical well-being. Mental health is a component of overall health, and addressing mental health issues can have a positive impact on a person's physical health.

Comprehensive, Innovative Behavioral Health Care If you’re looking for support through a challenging situation or just ready to move in a new direction in life, MidWest Behavioral Health is the place to achieve your goals providers

Tim Riley PhD Julie Maikranz PhD Aaron Stratman PhD Kara Antoniak APRN-NP, PMHNP-BC Susan Gripp APRN-NP, PMHNP-BC

(402) 327-0073 1530 S. 70th St, Suite 200 mwbehavioral.com

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

Early recognition, support and intervention can help promote better mental well-being, underscoring the importance of addressing mental health holistically and proactively. Sarah Worley with Daring Minds Therapy shared, “Offering individual, family and couple's counseling is how we support people in improving their mental health and overall well-being. These services can help individuals and families navigate challenges, develop coping strategies, improve communication and work towards Sarah Worley healthier, more fulfilling lives.” Daring Minds Therapy Approaching mental health with sensitivity and professionalism is vital for creating a safe and effective therapeutic environment. This involves respecting client confidentiality, maintaining a nonjudgmental attitude, showing empathy and valuing each client's autonomy and unique experiences. Establishing appropriate boundaries and practicing self-care as a mental health professional is equally essential in order to provide the highest quality support and to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues, ultimately encouraging more individuals to seek help when necessary. Reaching out for help is one of the most challenging things for those struggling with mental health to do. If someone has a cold or breaks a leg, they call a doctor. But, if someone struggles with anger or suicidal thoughts, they believe they need to fix it alone. This misconception that one should address mental health issues alone can exacerbate the struggles individuals face. It's crucial to recognize that mental health is as significant as physical wellbeing, and reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. According to Kayla Wilson, PLADC with Choices Treatment Center, “Big or small, reaching out for support for your mental health is something that should be ‘normal,’ Kayla Wilson like calling a doctor. It should be encouraged and celebrated. At Choices, we have a Choices Treatment Center variety of ways to support people struggling with addictions and mental health concerns including a crisis line, peer support, groups, gambling counseling, drug and alcohol counseling and mental health counseling. A lot of our staff have lived experience so they understand the effects of it all. We want to be the people you call when you're tired of trying to fix it alone. We want to be part of your ‘normal’ wellness routine.” By providing a caring and supportive atmosphere, Choices Treatment Center aims to guide individuals towards recovery and improved well-being. Their holistic approach to assisting individuals in overcoming mental health challenges ensures that all co-occuring issues are comprehensively addressed. HopeSpoke’s team also offers a supportive environment, additionally focusing on opportunities to share clinical knowledge, collaborate on problem solving and funds for clinical training opportunities in evidence-based practices such as Parent-Child Interactive Therapy and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. HopeSpoke offers opportunities for therapists to engage in both inoffice and telehealth sessions, providing flexibility in work schedules. This flexibility allows therapists to reach a wider range of individuals while adapting to evolving needs and preferences in mental health care delivery. HopeSpoke provides services designed to help vulnerable children, teens and their families. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

However, one of the primary challenges faced by HopeSpoke in fulfilling their mission is the shortage of mental health therapists. This shortage significantly impacts their ability to provide comprehensive care to young individuals. “Our industry, like many others, is facing a workforce shortage,” Katie McLeese Stephenson, MSW, Executive Director of HopeSpoke said. “But at the same time, we are seeing decreased stigma around mental Katie McLeese Stephenson health and more people seeking help.” HopeSpoke Behavioral health professionals play a critical role in the lives of young people who are struggling, as a therapist can make a difference in a child’s life every day. Addressing the shortage of mental health therapists is crucial in ensuring that vulnerable children, teenagers and families receive timely and adequate mental health support. Efforts to recruit and retain mental health professionals, as well as providing opportunities for training and professional development, are essential for HopeSpoke to overcome this challenge. Mental health isn’t a “one size fits all.” Every professional has a different approach that is tailored to meet the needs of each individual. These approaches methods various factors, including the person's background, experiences, cultural influences and specific mental health concerns. By recognizing and respecting these individual differences, mental health professionals can offer customized treatment strategies that resonate with the individual's preferences and circumstances, promoting a more effective and personalized therapeutic experience. This tailored process enhances the chances of positive outcomes and better addresses the diverse needs of individuals seeking mental health support. At MidWest Behavioral Health, they provide comprehensive and innovative behavioral health care. “By emphasizing a psychophysiological approach, we are able to strengthen our patients’ foundational makeup and keep them choosing the path they want to be on,” shared Dr. Aaron Stratman. “We find a therapist who resonates with them and understands where they are coming from. Whatever the person is feeling can likely make sense, and undermining that fundamental Dr. Aaron Stratman premise generally will not lead to a positive Midwest Behavioral Health outcome.” Between Dr. Stratman, Dr. Julie Maikranz and Dr. Tim Riley, Midwest Behavioral Health offers years of direct clinical experience, using evidence-based approaches to provide individual and family therapy. Additionally, their boardcertified psychiatric providers – Kara Antoniak APRN-NP, PMHNP-BC and Susan Gripp APRN-NP, PMHNP-BC – evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions with psychotropic medications. The providers at MidWest Behavioral Health also encourage patients to remain in the present moment. The decisions they make in the here and now are the ones that will determine their path moving forward. So, it is important to have patients focus on who they want to be rather than focusing on how they “should have” done something in the past or “what if” something bad happens in the future. To prepare for the possibility of staying in the present moment, biofeedback techniques that promote self-regulation of emotional states is often employed. Midwest Behavioral Health is prepared to address the whole person – emotionally, physically, behaviorally and bio-chemically. Mental health professionals in Lincoln and beyond have played a pivotal role in the mental health field by offering vital services, education and support, empowering individuals to seek help and fostering safe spaces for open discussions on mental health. Their contributions have been instrumental in reducing stigma and encouraging proactive engagement with mental health concerns. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Don’t play your life away. Nebraska Problem Gambling Helpline | 1-833-238-6837 National Problem Gambling Helpline | 1-800-522-4700 CHOICES Treatment Center | 402-476-2300 These 24/7 helplines are confidential and will direct you to a certified counselor who can provide immediate help. The Nebraska Gamblers Assistance Program (GAP) pays for the assessment and treatment of problem gambling for Nebraskans struggling with problem gambling and their families.

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

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DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

Holiday

Wrap Up

Last-minute holiday parties and gifts can be a whirlwind, but they can also bring unexpected joy. Last-minute doesn't have to mean less meaningful; sometimes, it's the spontaneity and genuine connection that make these moments truly special. Whether you are searching for a great present with Christmas right around the corner, trying to get a holiday party in before the new year or waiting until after the new year to throw your holiday party, you can trust the professionals of Lincoln to help you make last-minute gifts and parties appear as though you have been working for months. Be Prepared for Christmas with Gifts and More As the festive bells start ringing, make sure you're ready for Christmas with gifts and more. Whether you're planning a holiday gathering, shopping for presents or decking the halls with festive decorations, it's time to embrace the holiday spirit. In the whirlwind of the holiday season, if you find yourself on the last-minute train, don’t worry! There's still time to sleigh the Christmas game. Quick, thoughtful gifts and simple, festive touches can turn your space into a holiday haven. Hit the local shops for those charming last-minute gifts that carry a personal touch – there are plenty around! The Refuge at Landmark Nursery and Landscaping in Lincoln offers a unique and diverse shopping experience for all of your gift needs. This destination is a haven for carefully curated gifts, pottery, home decor and more. Whether you're on the hunt for the perfect gift, stylish home accents or seasonal decorations, The Refuge takes great pride in featuring the freshest and most desired one-of-a-kind items. Their experienced staff is dedicated to helping you find that something special, whether it's a treat for yourself or a loved one. The store offers an extensive range of offerings, including home decor, patio furniture, pottery, fair trade artisan wares, gardening tools, candles, wind chimes, birdbaths, planters, seasonal gifts and showcases artists across the U.S. and abroad. With an ever-evolving inventory of on-trend and must-have items for your home or outdoor living space, The Refuge at Landmark truly stands out as a one-ofa-kind shopping destination.

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For holiday gift giving, The Refuge at Landmark presents a fantastic opportunity to select a thoughtful and unique present. Their carefully curated selection of one-of-a-kind items allows you to discover a gift that not only embodies the holiday spirit but also resonates with the recipient's love for nature, creativity and class. Whether it's a beautiful piece of home decor, a creative and artistic gift or an elegant and timeless item, The Refuge at Landmark offers a wide range of options to ensure your holiday gift is special and memorable. It's a destination that can assist you in finding the perfect gift to bring joy and holiday cheer to your loved ones during the holiday season. If you are looking for a sweeter gift to bring to the table, Nothing Bundt Cakes not only promises delicious cakes, but also offers the perfect opportunity to express gratitude and spread holiday cheer. Their beautifully decorated cakes can double as thank you gifts and exceptional Christmas presents, and the larger ones can become a stunning centerpiece for any holiday table. Additionally, their retail Bundtique adds to the festive experience by providing a variety of unique and reasonably priced items, making it easy for shoppers to find great stocking stuffers or thoughtful gifts for those who love to entertain, such as serving platters, cake plates, hand towels and more. “We will be very well-stocked, and are prepared to handle last-minute requests. Sharon Hanson Our bakery is well-suited for those that want Nothing Bundt Cakes to pick up quick grab-and-go items, or, with a short wait, we can have something beautifully decorated for your celebration. We are also happy to deliver,” shared Nothing Bundt Cakes Co-Owner Sharon Hansen. Last-minute gifts and party desserts are a breeze with Nothing Bundt Cakes. Whether you're celebrating with loved ones or looking for

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a quick and festive gift, their cakes and accompanying accessories provide a delicious and thoughtful solution for your holiday needs. As the holiday season quickly approaches, delving into local jewelry stores can also be a boon for securing a last-minute, yet meaningful Christmas gift. Local jewels such as Sartor Hamann Jewelers offer convenience and personalized assistance in addition to a unique and curated selection of jewelry pieces suitable for various tastes and budgets. Whether you are searc hing for a personalized birthstone necklace, a stylish bracelet or a subtle yet classy set of earrings, these selections can express your thoughtfulness and care in a beautifully adorned package. Because you can tailor your selection to the recipient’s tastes, they’ll have no idea you put off Christmas shopping and love the attention you paid to their style and preferences. “Diamond studs are the perfect last minute Kelsey Miller gift for Christmas. Classic studs are a Sartor Hamann Jewelers versatile and timeless addition to any wardrobe. Plus, they come in a variety of sizes to fit any budget, making them a thoughtful and customizable gift for your loved ones during the holiday season!” shared Kelsey Miller, Inventory Coordinator. This holiday, give a special gift from Sartor Hamann Jewelers that'll make your loved one really happy. Imagine their excitement opening a beautiful piece of jewelry that shines as bright as the Christmas tree lights. Whether it's starting a new chapter in your relationship or making their holiday super bright, this gift will be a sparkling memory they'll always treasure and think back upon when they wear the jewelry you gave them. Another sparkling gift that also doubles as an activity is the Nebraska Christmas Lights Show. This holiday fun will brighten up your celebration, so long as you make it while it's open. The vibrant show will be running through January 3, and your small group can have a lot of fun for a little price. Whether you are celebrating with family, friends or both, this is one holiday event you won’t want to miss. The show is a dazzling spectacle of holiday magic, showcasing numerous high-quality lights in vibrant colors, festive props and beloved seasonal characters. What makes it truly special is the synchronization of all lights and effects to music, creating a mesmerizing audio-visual experience that you can enjoy from the warmth and coziness of your own car. Lasting for about 20 minutes, the show spans approximately a mile, immersing you in a winter wonderland filled with the spirit of the season. It's a perfect way to embrace the holiday cheer with family and friends. One last gift to consider this holiday season is cold weather gear. The cold weather has hit, and Lincoln Running Co. has everything you need for the runner or walker on your list! Not sure how to dress for this winter weather? Lincoln Running has it down to a science and loves sharing how to enjoy winter weather with the right apparel. From base layers on temperate days to highly insulated layers and jackets on the "slap in the face" cold days – they have it all. And yes, your mother was right – keep your head and hands covered to stay warm! The Lincoln Running Co. has a wall dedicated to head and hand coverings as well as December Balega and Feeture socks (buy three get one free) to keep your feet dry and warm. There is something for everyone at Lincoln Running Co! “Our goal is to transform your shopping into an exceptional experience – one that is memorable and enjoyable. With the holiday season already upon us, you can count on Ann Ringlein Lincoln Running Co. to have everything you Lincoln Running Co.

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need, including the answers to your questions,” shared Manager Ann Ringlein. Extending Your Celebration Hosting your holiday party in January provides a unique and festive opportunity to extend the celebrations beyond December. Whether it's a belated New Year's Eve bash to welcome the year with style or a Winter Wonderland-themed gathering, January offers a chance to reconnect with loved ones after the busy holiday season, enjoy seasonal decor and treats and kick off the new year with renewed joy and enthusiasm, all without the December rush and stress. January is also a great time to throw your company party to keep it from interfering with employee and client family plans – something everyone can appreciate during the busy holiday season. “So many are realizing what a stressful time the holidays can be. Don’t worry if you can’t fit something in. It’s almost become the norm to host holiday parties outside of December,” said Jen Miseno, Group Event Coordinator at Sun Valley Lanes & Games. Hosting a holiday party at Sun Valley Lanes & Games in January can be a fantastic way to kick off the New Year. You can enjoy the post-holiday season by offering your guests a chance to relax and indulge in the thrill of games and bowling, keeping it friendly or making it competitive. With a Jen Miseno variety of food and drink options available, Sun Valley Lanes & Games you can create a vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere for your guests, making it a perfect choice for a unique and memorable post-holiday January party. If you are looking for a delicious, easy dessert to bring to the party, look no further than Sweet things by Marcy. They have something for everyone, offering a wide variety of flavors and dessert choices. You can stick with the classics or try something new – Marcy's got it all. Whether you're into traditional treats or want to shake things up, Marcy's desserts bring joy to your table. It's like having a sweet adventure, where every bite is a tasty surprise. “My bakery specializes in authentic southern-style desserts, but I’m always trying new things to expand my menu,” said Owner Marcy Haas. “I like to blend tradition with innovation, catering to both those who crave the classic charm of southern treats and those who are up for a tasty twist.” Marcy Haas Sweet Things by Marcy At Sweet Things by Marcy, the magic begins with the hands-on approach of crafting desserts from scratch. From measuring out the flour to the final touch of frosting, every step is a testament to Marcy’s commitment to delivering not just desserts, but handmade perfection. So, when you indulge in Sweet Things by Marcy, you're not just savoring a treat; you're tasting the genuine care and craftsmanship that goes into each amazing bite. Another way to make your holiday party unique is to host it at the Talon Room. This venue combines timeless elegance with modern enchantment for a rustic-urban charm unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Plus, it is equipped to accommodate up to 250 people, making it perfect for celebrating employees and thanking clients – you won’t have to worry about a selective guest list! Owner Matthew Rogge enthusiastically shared, "We've got your back for the Matthew Rogge holiday season! We provide catering, bar Talon Room service, decoration packages and take #PrintProudDigitalSmart

care of setting up and tearing down the venue. Why? So you can enjoy the party! We're all about exceptional customer service and creating unforgettable events. Let's make this holiday season your absolute best one yet!" After Christmas, when the festive spirit lingers and the joy of the season continues, the Talon Room is your go-to venue for extending the celebration. Whether you're raising a toast to the achievements of the past year with your team or expressing post-holiday gratitude to valued clients, the Talon Room transforms into the perfect setting for a memorable gathering. Their team will go above and beyond to take care of everything you don't want to think about after holiday vacations and family dinners. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a stress-free experience where you can simply enjoy the company of your guests, leaving the logistics and behind-the-scenes work in capable hands? When planning an after-the-holiday party for a small group of family and friends, you should strive for the same stress-free, unique experience. Going out to eat to celebrate is a great way to achieve this, and by waiting until after the holidays to make plans, you’ll be able to avoid long waits and crowded restaurants – but it doesn’t hurt to still make a reservation. The holidays are a busy time for everyone, so keeping it simple can sometimes be the best way to make it happen. Instead of going out to eat and then trying to find entertainment so everyone can spend more time together, consider combining your meal and entertainment into one stop. At Screamers Family Restaurant, you're in for a unique experience where dinner and entertainment seamlessly come together. Owner Kevin Witcher aptly describes it as "a built-in party with every reservation." This one-stop destination not only offers delicious food, but also adds an extra layer of enjoyment with singing servers. The diverse menu caters to various tastes, featuring world-class options that will make your mouth water. Using only quality, fresh ingredients

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in all of their dishes, Screamers will serve a meal that will light your taste buds up with more flavor than a Christmas tree has lights. What really sets Screamers apart, though, is the musical accompaniment, spanning all styles, genres and eras, ensuring a lively and engaging atmosphere. “Who doesn’t like entertainment while dining? Especially during the holidays, festive music adds a nice touch to any celebration,” shared Kevin. Kevin Witcher For an unforgettable holiday party after the New Year, another unique party idea Screamers Family Restaurant is to rent a party bus. Renting a party bus is always a lot of fun because it's like having a moving party with your friends, family, coworkers or clients. The bus has cool lights, music and comfy seats, making it a lively and festive atmosphere. You can travel around, check out holiday lights and enjoy the ride together. “We can take your group around town or from one spot to the next in one of our six decked-out limousine-style party buses,” shared DeeDee Loomis, Owner of Tailored Dreams Party Buses. “Turn up the holiday tunes on our Bluetooth sound system and rock out under the LED lights!” Tailored Dreams stands out in the party bus industry by offering a unique service – they are the sole company in the area with handicap accessible buses in their fleet. They've considered every detail to craft a personalized driving experience without breaking the bank. The team at Tailored Dreams is dedicated to ensuring everyone DeeDee Loomis can enjoy a fantastic time. With a focus Tailored Dreams Party Buses

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DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

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on customization and affordability, they collaborate with clients to guarantee a memorable and inclusive experience for all their guests. With a dependable and luxurious fleet of party buses that can accommodate 26 to 45 passengers, you can choose the perfect bus to suit your group’s unique style and size. One last place to check out for your holiday party is Mi Tierra Family Mexican Restaurant. They are known as a spot for people to gather together and enjoy amazing food and tasty drinks with friends and family. When dining at Mi Tierra, you will be treated like family with warm greetings, friendly smiles and quick service. MiTierra Family Mexican Restaurant boasts an expansive menu that caters to a wide range of preferences, ensuring there's something appetizing for every guest. From traditional Mexican dishes bursting with flavors to contemporary favorites, their diverse offerings promise a culinary adventure. Moreover, their selection of refreshing margaritas and cocktails adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the dining experience, providing the perfect accompaniment to savor alongside their delicious cuisine. Whether you're craving classic Mexican fare or seeking something new and exciting, Mi Tierra has it all. Hosting your holiday party at Mi Tierra Family Mexican Restaurant ensures an unforgettable celebration filled with warmth, flavor and festive cheer. The inviting atmosphere coupled with their diverse menu offerings creates the ideal setting for your gathering. Whether it's a casual get-together or a larger festive event, MiTierra's welcoming ambiance, delicious food choices and refreshing drinks set the stage for a joyful and memorable holiday celebration. Travel in Peace Traveling for the holidays can be challenging when you have a pet – either you have to leave them at home (attended or unattended) or pack them with you. It can be emotionally difficult to leave them behind, as you worry about their wellbeing and the well-being of your home and furniture. On the other hand, finding reliable and affordable pet care options, such as boarding facilities or pet sitters, can be a logistical challenge during the busy holiday season. When working with Kenl Inn, however, the extra obstacle becomes both a pet and owner vacation. “We will treat your pets as if they were our own,” explained Manager Dian Quist. “Our staff understands that each pet has Dian Quist unique needs and preferences, and they Kenl Inn make it a priority to cater to those needs, whether it's providing extra playtime, offering special treats or simply giving them the love and care they deserve. At Kenl Inn, we strive to create a home away from home for your pets, making their stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.” Kenl Inn ensures that pets missing out on the holidays with their owners still have a great Christmas. They offer a delicious holiday meal for an extra cost along with a diverse selection of brand-new toys. These items not only keep pets entertained, but also serve as excellent stocking stuffers. At Kenl Inn, they understand the importance of including pets in the holiday celebrations, ensuring that they enjoy a festive treat and a touch of excitement to brighten their day. Whether you're wrapping up your holiday festivities in December or extending them into January, we extend our warmest wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! As the holiday season draws to a close, we encourage you to engage with local professionals who can help you put the perfect finishing touches on your celebrations. Let's end this holiday season in a perfectly tied bow!

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

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Senior Living

The senior care industry confronts significant challenges, including the rapidly growing population of seniors, workforce shortages and the demand for high-quality, individualized care. To address these challenges, a multifaceted approach is essential. This involves investment in workforce development and training to attract and retain caregivers, adopting technology solutions for efficient and personalized care delivery and prioritizing collaboration with healthcare providers to ensure holistic well-being. Person-centered care plans and family involvement play a crucial role in addressing the diverse needs of seniors, promoting their independence and dignity. Meeting these challenges requires a combination of innovation, compassion and a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our aging population – something that Lincoln businesses do exceptionally well. One of the key challenges in the senior care industry is the need to hire a sufficient number of qualified caregivers as client bases expand. This challenge stems from the increasing demand for senior care services due to the aging population and the need for skilled and compassionate individuals to provide quality care. To address this issue, many businesses are actively working on implementing comprehensive recruitment strategies, including competitive compensation packages, ongoing training and development programs and a supportive work environment that values and recognizes the contributions of caregivers. Lincoln is committed to ensuring that as the need for care grows, the high standard of care clients deserve is maintained by attracting and retaining the best talent in the senior care field. At Visiting Angels, an exceptional home care service provider, they know the importance of providing exceptional, personalized care – something that starts with the staff they hire. According to Julie Day, the Client Care Coordinator, “The hiring process is ongoing. We work very hard to find caring, experienced caregivers. We may only hire one out of many applicants because we are very particular about who we hire to care for our clients." A selective approach to the hiring process is Julie Day a testament to Visiting Angel’s commitment to Visiting Angels providing the highest level of care for their clients. Their discerning standards ensure that those entrusted with the well-being of seniors are not just qualified, but truly dedicated to delivering the quality of care that the agency's clients deserve. This dedication to excellence in hiring reinforces the agency's mission to prioritize the well-being and safety of their senior clientele, even as the industry continues to change and the needs of residents change. In the senior care industry, another pressing challenge revolves around #PrintProudDigitalSmart

the escalating demand for senior care services. This surge in demand is further exacerbated by a shortage of caregivers, a situation that significantly impacts the overall cost of care. Consequently, seniors are facing the daunting task of locating suitable care options that align with their financial constraints. With 2024 right around the corner, many families and seniors are figuring out what the next steps are, taking cost, quality of care and the time they’ll be able to spend together into consideration. To help alleviate some of the strain in the senior care industry, Hallmark Homecare, a Referral Agency specializing in the recruitment and placement of experienced caregivers with seniors on a direct-hire basis, is placing extra emphasis on their value

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propositions including affordability, client controlled care and creating a larger pool of professional caregivers who make more money with preferable shifts and increased hours. According to Shane Neuhar th, “The competitive advantage of the Hallmark Model of Care stems from cutting out the middleman, namely the traditional senior care agency. This results in our clients saving money and having a greater voice in decisions concerning their care while also Shane Neuharth experiencing greater continuity in caregiver Hallmark Homecare relationships. The Hallmark Model's higher caregiver pay and preferable shifts with increased hours significantly increases the pool of qualified caregivers for clients to select from. Lastly, our clients are fully protected knowing their caregivers are credentialed, verified, screened and fully insured.” With a shortage of caregivers for our beloved seniors comes stress. This shortage amplifies concerns about the quality and availability of care for aging family members who require assistance with daily activities, medical needs or companionship. Family members often face the challenge of finding adequate and reliable care options, leading to heightened anxiety and stress as they strive to ensure their loved ones receive the necessary support and attention. Additionally, seniors themselves may experience stress due to limited access to essential care services, leading to feelings of vulnerability and uncertainty about their well-being and future. The widespread shortage of caregivers adds pressure to an already challenging situation for families and seniors alike, emphasizing the critical need for more support and resources in elder care services. Fortunately, technological advancements in home-based care services provide a range of tools to support seniors in aging at home while prioritizing their safety and access to essential medical care. These innovative technologies encompass safety monitoring systems that offer round-the-clock surveillance, ensuring immediate assistance in emergencies. Medication management tools aid in organizing and reminding seniors to take their medications correctly, reducing the risk of errors. Additionally, cognitive stimulation programs and devices help maintain mental acuity and engagement. Telemedicine services enable remote access to healthcare professionals, facilitating medical consultations and support from the comfort of home. Together, these technological advancements empower seniors to live independently at home while ensuring enhanced safety measures and better access to necessary medical care. Seniors benefit greatly from personalized technological care at home, and complementing this with professional home care services like those offered by Worry Free Home Care can further enhance their well-being. With caregivers trained to provide support in activities of daily living, medication management and mobility assistance, among other services, Worry Free Home Care ensures seniors can live at home without worrying about their safety or burdening their loved ones. Their expert caregivers provide comprehensive assistance, fostering a secure and comfortable environment for seniors to thrive independently. Founder Racheal Odoy highlights that their caregivers at Worry Free Home Care aren't just ordinary professionals; rather, they are dedicated individuals committed to fostering meaningful relationships and creating positive impact. “Our approach Rachel Odoy extends beyond conventional caregiving, Worry Free Home Care focusing on genuine care and compassion towards seniors. With a profound dedication to the well-being of seniors, we deliver exceptional home care services that reflect genuine concern and commitment to providing personalized and attentive care to each individual we serve.” #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Worry Free Home Care understands the importance of communication and collaboration with healthcare providers, family members and other caregivers involved. This coordinated effort fosters a supportive environment, enhancing the quality of care and ultimately reducing stress for the seniors, their families and the caregiving team. As we age, our bodies and minds undergo various changes, leading to different needs and challenges. Physically, our muscles tend to weaken and our mobility is affected, leading to considerations for accessibility and safety in living environments. Cognitive changes, such as a natural decline in memory and processing speed, may also require a change in living environment for accessibility and safety. However, helping seniors in real estate presents two significant challenges that require a unique approach. The first challenge revolves around showing them that a move is genuinely in their best interest for their mental and physical health. According to Alicia Chrastil with Nebraska Realty, “It is of utmost importance for seniors to embrace the move as a positive life transition filled with exciting opportunities and new horizons to explore. There are a multitude of wonderful experiences and fresh beginnings awaiting them, which deserve their focus and anticipation.” Many seniors are emotionally attached to their current homes and are reluctant to embrace change, in part in fear of what the process of moving looks like and means for their possessions. As such, the second challenge lies in helping seniors realize that moving isn’t always negative. For those working with Alicia Chrastil’s team, all possessions are handled delicately, and the emotions of all involved are consistently taken into consideration. “Our teams' specialization as senior move experts set us apart, and we offer Alicia Chrastil a transition unlike any move they've Nebraska Realty

experienced before,” shared Alicia. “Our team provides access to a network of service vendors and expertly coordinates all aspects from the initial planning stages to the move-in day and beyond. We take them and their families from being overwhelmed to overjoyed on their unique real estate journey.” Another challenge seniors face is working with a pharmacy that truly has their best interest in mind. Community pharmacies are confronted with a series of formidable challenges in an increasingly value-based healthcare economy even though they are the ones focused on the well-being of each and every person they provide medication for. With retail pharmacies consolidating, the competition and market pressures for independent community pharmacies increases, emphasizing the need for adaptability and innovation in this evolving healthcare landscape. Community pharmacies, such as Nebraska LTC Pharmacy, are adapting to these challenges by implementing several strategies. They are increasingly diversifying their services, such as offering clinical services like vaccinations, health screenings and medication therapy management to demonstrate their value as healthcare providers. Many are also investing in digital health solutions to enhance patient engagement and improve medication adherence, often through mobile apps and telehealth services. Additionally, some pharmacies are exploring niche markets and specialty pharmacy services, leveraging their expertise in specific areas of healthcare. Nebraska LTC Pharmacy, a locally owned company serving the Lincoln area, distinguishes itself through its commitment to individualized patient care, enhancing safety and supporting seniors’ independence in their homes. Setting themselves apart from large chain stores and pharmacies, Nebraska LTC Pharmacy operates as a concierge pharmacy, prioritizing exceptional customer service and meticulous attention to detail that goes beyond the typical retail pharmacy experience. “Our goal is to offer a ‘small town’ level of customer service while still providing the highest level of care for our patients,” shared Owner

Newly Renovated!

Savannah Pines

The Holidays are Brighter at Savannah Pines! Our complete remodel brings fresh spaces beautifully designed to inspire community and connection while elevating the five-star service and resort lifestyle our residents cherish. Discover a higher standard of senior living at Savannah Pines with incredible apartment homes, sensational amenities, Signature Freedom Dining, and so much more! The best part – everything is included for one monthly price with no buy-in fee or long-term lease!

Now is the time to make your move and lock in our 2023 rates! Call today:

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DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

The care you need in the

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Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

Shannon Schultz. “We take the extra time to put medications into packaging that is extremely easy to use and deliver the medications to doorsteps to help our seniors as much as we can.” Over-explaining and making things simple isn’t necessarily a bad thing when it comes to senior care. There is a lot going on, and change isn’t easy. By providing clear and detailed explanations, caregivers can help alleviate confusion and reduce stress for seniors. Breaking down information into Shannon Schultz Nebraska LTC Pharmacy simple, understandable terms not only facilitates better comprehension, but also empowers seniors to make informed decisions about their care. One of the first challenges senior living facilities face in regard to explaining care is relaying the difference between Medicaid and Medicare, which is then followed by explaining the actual care they will receive with their specific insurance. Navigating this information early on helps establish transparency and fosters a sense of confidence and security for residents as they embark on their journey in senior living facilities, which is why Emerald Lancaster wastes no time explaining everything they can. Their commitment to clear communication contributes to a smoother transition and an overall positive experience for residents and their families. “Long-term care plans are impacted by insurance, first and foremost, and then by our unique approach to creating connections with your loved ones,” explained Bruce Jones. “By gathering information about the resident's preferences, our staff can tailor their approach to activities, creating a more personalized experience. This individualized care not only takes into account the practical aspects of insurance coverage, but also focuses on the emotional and social well-being of residents.” Bruce Jones Seniors often face complex situations, and Emerald Lancaster navigating changes can be challenging for them. Clear and detailed explanations not only alleviate confusion but also reduce stress for seniors. Aside from knowing the differences between insurances in regard to senior living facilities, many people aren’t always aware of or don’t understand how non-medical home care can be a game changer. This form of care provides essential assistance with daily activities and companionship, offering a range of benefits that can significantly improve the quality of life for those who receive it. First and foremost, non-medical home care allows individuals to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes, preserving their independence and dignity. It offers personalized support tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the recipient, ensuring that the care is truly individualized. The flexibility of nonmedical home care services is another crucial aspect. Care plans can be adjusted as needs change, ensuring that the level of care remains appropriate over time. Rhonda Saunders with AmanaCare shared, “I believe in educating the community through advertising, Facebook, community education, networking and sharing with everyone I meet the benefits of in-home care. I know it helps people to stay in their own home, giving them and their family members’ peace of mind.” Having worked in the hospice world for eight years, Rhonda has heard countless people wish they would have started inhome care sooner. Non-medical home care Rhonda Saunders isn’t hospice, but like hospice, once clients AmanaCare #PrintProudDigitalSmart

start receiving care, they will state the same: wishing they had started sooner. Sometimes, delaying much needed extra care in the home can take a toll that’s difficult to recover from. For instance, if poor nutrition is an issue, a caregiver can help with grocery shopping, meal preparation and even keeping the client company while they dine. Food always tastes better with good company. If malnourishment sets in, this can lead to a plethora of health issues, and a domino effect can begin. At AmanaCare In-Home Assistance, they are able to provide anywhere from two hours a week up to 24 hour care seven days a week. Every person they care for has unique needs and that’s what they do best – discovering and meeting those needs! Choosing the right care for a loved one can be stressful. Especially during the holiday season when family is of utmost importance, seniors can struggle. Sometimes they are unable to attend gatherings, even if they want to. As such, Renee Pickeral, the Executive Director at Legacy Arbors, suggests keeping our expectations reasonable. “Our loved one may be tired and not want to participate, it may be too stressful for them, or maybe they are unable to participate in a big party and need to have a smaller get-together. Know what your loved one can manage and will enjoy, because the holidays need to be planned according to their needs and abilities. This may even bring a new holiday tradition!” said Renee. Renee Pickeral Legacy Arbors Keeping stress low is an ongoing challenge as senior living communities aren’t one-size-fits-all. To cater the various needs of residents, Legacy has introduced innovative approaches to enhance resident engagement, prioritize their happiness, promote activity, and support overall well-being. They've invested in creating elaborate outdoor patio spaces and added recreational elements like a shuffleboard table. Moreover, Legacy's enrichment staff actively engages with residents, fostering connections and ensuring a more enjoyable experience. By adopting these new routines, Legacy has opened up opportunities for increased fun and social interaction among its residents, contributing positively to their quality of life. In the dynamic landscape of senior care, the growing emphasis on life enrichment is particularly vital due to the unique needs of elderly individuals and the challenge of isolation. Recognizing and addressing these distinctive requirements is crucial for providing comprehensive and effective care. Life enrichment programs tailored to seniors' unique needs go beyond generic approaches, taking into account factors such as varying levels of mobility, cognitive abilities and individual interests. At Waterford Communities Assisted Living and Memory Care, there are special activities that fit with what each person likes, so everyone can join in and feel part of the group. The staff pays close attention to what each resident needs, making personalized plans for care. This is important for anyone looking for top-notch senior care – not just making sure things are okay, but making sure each person is happy and taken care of in a way that suits them. Dan Klein Jr., Owner of the Waterford Communities, highlights the importance of social connection in assisted living communities as a significant benefit. He emphasizes the efforts these communities make to prevent social isolation in seniors. “We encourage residents to engage in various group activities like movie nights, card games, book clubs and crafting sessions. If your family member needs support or is feeling isolated, consider exploring our assisted living options. We're confident they'll feel right at home Dan Klein Jr. in our communities, where fostering social Waterford Communities connections is a top priority.” #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Care That Comes to You In Your Own Home

hoice For In H ted C om rus eC rT ar u e Yo

Caring Friends In Home Care is the heart, discipline and standard of quality service and care, and everyone of us are committed to providing a professional, positive, friendly experience, with exceptional care, companionship and assistance in your home.

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402-207-1050

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Compassionate Compassionate Assisted Assisted Living Memory Care 402-698-4449 Living Memory Care HighPlainsSeniorLiving.com • Award-winning SPARK™ Program uses • Wellness programs to enhance Montessori-Inspired Methods to 2023 provide DECEMBER meaningful social roles and purposeful activities

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• Beautifully landscaped grounds and tastefully designed living spaces

SPECIALIZING IN SENIOR TRANSITIONS It’s All about YOU! CONTACT ALICIA FOR YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS 402.499.8147 | alicia@nebraskarealty.com

Family Serving Family A proud member of the Vetter Senior Living Family

• Memory Support • Rehabilitation Services • Long Term Care

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Building relationships is also a priority for Caring Friends In Home Care, where they acknowledge the challenges seniors face in retaining independence. Emphasizing a person-centered approach, Caring Friends caregivers make a genuine effort to understand the distinct needs and preferences of each client to help them maintain as much independence as possible without sacrificing their quality of life. This commitment to open dialogue and personalized care contributes significantly to enhancing the quality of life for seniors receiving in-home care. According to Virginia Cole, the COO of Caring Friends In Home Care, the organization is unwaveringly dedicated to providing care that reflects both compassion and a deep understanding of each individual's specific needs and desires. Caring Friends is adept at crafting personalized plans of care and services to cater to the unique requirements of each person. “Independence is often synonymous with a sense of control, self-reliance and freedom, and its decline can impact various aspects of a senior’s life. This loss can affect their emotional well-being, leading to feelings of frustration, helplessness and even sadness. In the context of caregiving, preserving and promoting independence becomes a key goal, and our caregivers strive to find a balance that allows seniors to maintain control over aspects of their lives while providing necessary support where Virginia Cole Caring Friends In Home Care needed,” shared Virginia. Independent retirement living is about giving seniors the freedom to choose how they want to live. Independent retirement living embodies choices, flexibility and freedom for older adults. It involves empowering seniors to make choices about their daily lives, health and well-being, fostering a sense of control and self-determination. Independence respects individual preferences and desires, allowing seniors to participate in decision-making and engage in activities that bring them joy and fulfillment. Savannah Pines has been thoughtfully designed to prioritize comfort and independence for its residents, offering a variety of different floor plans to fit everyone’s needs. Each apartment is crafted to enhance independent living and comfort, featuring amenities like window coverings, climate-controlled thermostats, spacious closets and well-equipped kitchens furnished with full-sized appliances. These elements are tailored to cater to the residents preferences, ensuring a homely and convenient living space. The standout feature of this facility, however, is the presence of a live-in community manager team. Their managers are your neighbors and live on-site to ensure residents are happily enjoying their best retirement life. By having a team available at all times, they take care of various responsibilities, allowing residents and their families peace of mind and security, so they can focus on enjoying their lives to the fullest without worrying about the maintenance of daily life. This on-site support creates a reassuring and comfortable environment, promoting a stress-free living experience for all residents and their families. Lincoln Housing Authority also prioritizes senior independence, offering “more than housing.” Recognizing the diverse needs of seniors, the Lincoln Housing Authority goes beyond providing physical accommodations. They actively work towards empowering seniors by offering a range of services and programs designed to support independence and improve overall well-being. By prioritizing senior independence, the Lincoln Housing Authority strives to create an environment where seniors can maintain autonomy, engage in activities they enjoy and access the necessary support systems to lead fulfilling lives within their housing communities. Burke Plaza, Crossroads House and Mahoney Manor collectively accommodate over 270 seniors, offering an array of social and personal support services through the Resident Services and #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Congregate Housing Services programs. These facilities aim to provide residents with comprehensive access to a diverse range of amenities and resources, ensuring that their needs are met effectively and promptly. The cornerstone of the Resident Services Program lies in the role of the Resident Services Specialist at each building. Their primary responsibility involves providing comprehensive support to residents while curating diverse activities and programs aimed at enriching and improving the overall quality of life within each community. By actively engaging with the residents and understanding their preferences and challenges, the Resident Services Specialist works diligently to create an inclusive and enriching living environment. Memory care assisted living communities fulfill a vital role in providing specialized support for individuals affected by Alzheimer's and related conditions – who cannot live independently. However, effectively treating and managing these conditions poses a significant challenge due to their complex nature and the need for personalized care and interventions tailored to each individual's specific needs. High Plains Alzheimer’s Special Care Center adopts a holistic care strategy that excels in handling the complex behaviors often linked to Alzheimer's. Through adeptly trained personnel and a secure setting, they establish a safe and organized environment for residents. Tailored care plans address individual needs, covering daily support, medication supervision and stimulating cognitive and physical activities to ensure personalized care and well-being. High Plains prioritizes creating a welcoming and amiable environment, significantly impacting residents' well-being. Through communitybuilding efforts and a commitment to instilling purpose in residents' lives, they alleviate feelings of isolation, anxiety and depression commonly linked to memory loss. Regular family communication keeps loved ones informed about their relative's progress and any shifts in their condition, empowering families to make choices aligned with their loved one's needs in Alzheimer's or dementia care. Once your loved one is to the point they need senior living, it is also important to consider funeral arrangements for when the time comes. Discussing and arranging funeral plans in advance is a vital step for individuals diagnosed with dementia, and even for those otherwise healthy. These conversations should occur while the person is still capable of participating and making decisions. This proactive approach enables seniors to articulate their preferences for their funeral and burial, ensuring their wishes are honored and alleviating loved ones of the emotional strain of making these choices during a challenging period. Pre-planning offers peace of mind to both the individual and their family, serving as a compassionate way to honor the person's desires when the inevitable time arrives. When initiating the challenging conversation, according to Wyuka Funeral Home & Cemetery, maintaining an open-minded approach is crucial. Practicing empathy is key while navigating this dialogue. Strive to comprehend the sensitivity and viewpoint of your loved one and offer frequent support and reassurance. The ultimate aim is to reach a decision on a plan, ensuring that this doesn't compromise the comfort of those involved in the process. There’s no need to ‘schedule’ a conversation to avoid upsetting those involved. It’s okay to be subtle and create an ongoing conversation on the topic of prearrangements. The senior care industry faces considerable hurdles such as the escalating senior population, workforce shortages and the call for superior, personalized care. Tackling these challenges demands a multifaceted approach. This involves investing in caregiver development, embracing technology for efficient care and fostering collaborations with healthcare providers. Prioritizing person-centered care plans and involving families is crucial in catering to diverse senior needs while upholding their independence and dignity. Lincoln businesses exhibit exceptional innovation, compassion and dedication to enhancing the quality of life for our aging population, showcasing a commitment to addressing these pressing challenges in senior care. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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

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

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402.735.0999 VisitingAngels.com/Lincoln

Each Visiting Angels agency is independently owned and operated. ®2023 Visiting Angels is a registered trademark of Living Assistance Services, Inc.

DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

WINTER DRIVING Ensuring that your vehicle is well-prepared for winter driving is crucial for safe and hassle-free travel. So, how do you prepare for winter driving?

Automotive Specialists

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Before Hitting the Road Preparing your vehicle for winter is crucial, and Jeff Melichar from Melichar 66 emphasizes the importance of scheduling a comprehensive inspection beforehand. By conducting a thorough inspection before winter arrives, potential issues can be identified and resolved proactively, preventing them from becoming more significant problems later on. Delaying preparations for your vehicle's winter readiness can heighten the risk of significant problems such as battery failure due to cold weather strain, reduced tire traction on icy roads from worn treads and potential engine damage from inadequate fluid levels like antifreeze. Neglecting these crucial checks can compromise the safety and reliability of your vehicle during winter. According to Jeff, “We address a variety of services to ensure your vehicle is ready for winter, including the replacement of any fluids, belts or hoses, tires and batteries as needed.” Melichar 66’s specialization in all aspects of vehicle repair and expertise in engine diagnostics ensures that they can address various automotive issues, providing comprehensive solutions to keep vehicles running smoothly, especially during the challenging winter conditions. Jeff Melichar Driving on ice is difficult and dangerous, Melichar 66 even for the best drivers. New tires will always provide an advantage – especially the newer “ice tires” which use a combination of sticky rubber compounds and a significant number of sipes in the tread design. These sipes act like tiny suction cups to help grip the ice better than traditional tread designs. T.O. Haas Tire & Auto can help you find the best tires to help you drive safely this winter. T.O. Haas Tire & Auto has been a tradition of trust since 1947. They sell more than two dozen brands of tires and perform many automotive services important to safe winter driving, including oil changes, alignments, brakes, exhaust, shocks, struts, cooling systems, transmission-fluid flushes and more. Before hitting icy roads with a pre-examined vehicle, it's wise to review your car insurance coverage. Take the time to understand what your current policy includes and assess whether it provides adequate protection in winter conditions. Consider the pros and cons of potentially switching your insurance to ensure you have the best coverage for worst-case scenarios. If you don’t have adequate liability, uninsured motorist and underinsured motorist coverage, an accident Matthew Moorhead can go from bad to worse. To learn more Shelter Insurance Agency

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

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about what coverage is going to be best for your situation, we recommend talking with Matthew Moorhead, Owner of Shelter Insurance Agency. "I'm here to walk you through your coverage, explaining everything in detail to help find the options that suit you best," Matthew mentioned. "Sometimes, people are drawn to those TV ads that suggest getting a quick online quote, thinking the cheapest price is the best deal. However, with insurance, it's crucial to remember that the lowest price might not offer the best coverage. I'm here to help you understand the details and ensure you get the coverage that truly fits your needs." Especially when traveling away from home, it is better to be over prepared than under. Once your car insurance is settled, you’ll want to make sure that your car is equipped for the winter roads. According to Sherri Stock, Owner of inMOTION Auto Care, “Preparing a vehicle for winter nowadays essentially involves an oil change and a comprehensive inspection to identify any possible issues. Components like batteries, hoses, belts, water pumps and spark plug wires can lead to breakdowns if they're in poor condition. Taking care of repairs and maintenance proactively decreases the risk of unexpected roadside breakdowns in the future, ensuring a smoother and more reliable driving experience.” Tire pressure is also something to consider, as it tends to decrease by one PSI (pounds Sherri Stock per square inch) for every 10-degree drop inMOTION Auto Care in temperature. Cold weather causes the air inside the tire to condense, occupying less space. By checking and adjusting tire pressures, you ensure they are at the appropriate levels for safe driving, enhancing traction and overall performance, especially during the colder months. Vehicles have a lot going on, and much of the maintenance they require aren’t things we regularly think about. At inMOTION Auto Care, their primary aim is to provide an exceptional customer-service experience for auto repair and maintenance. They think of everything we don’t. Their team comprises highly skilled auto mechanics committed to upholding the utmost integrity and professionalism in every service, whether it's a minor fix or a major job. One last piece of advice for preparing your vehicle for winter, and maintaining it through the colder months, is to visit a car wash regularly. During the colder months, maintaining the cleanliness of your vehicle becomes particularly important in safeguarding it against the detrimental effects of road salt and other harsh winter elements. A great place to maintain your vehicle this winter is the locally owned and operated JetSplash Car Wash. Not only will JetSplash handprep your vehicle, but also hand-dry it, ensuring a deep clean that goes beyond the ordinary. Moreover, their JetGloss product offers a three-step ceramic coating that not only protects your vehicle from road salt and brine, but also provides a glossy finish with enhanced water repellency. It's a comprehensive solution for keeping your car both looking great and well-protected during challenging winter conditions. If you want extra protection for your car this winter, ride your sleigh over to JetSplash and check out their new Jet Gloss Ceramic three-step process. Jet Gloss's unique surface prep step rinses away oxidized metals, concrete dust and other hard contaminants found in road salt, snow and ice. With a now-clean surface, the ceramic coating adheres to the vehicle perfectly, providing the best possible protection and the smoothest possible finish. And with nano graphene technology, Jet Gloss creates a protective barrier that repels water and other contaminants the winter throws at your car. Driving in Unpredictable Weather Because winter driving can be challenging and potentially hazardous, it is important to take precautions that help ensure your safety on #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Save time & worry with our free mobile estimate app.

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We offer a FREE loaner vehicle while your vehicle is in for repairs or maintenance! STOP IN TODAY! 131 Russwood Parkway 402.486.9880 • inmotionautocare.com DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

FIRST ON

Santa’s Nice List,

LINCOLN’S PREMIERE CHOICE FOR AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES O BACK T BACK

Village Values.

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A1AutoLincoln.com (402) 782-4567 | 1117 L St., Lincoln, NE 68508 MON-THU | 7:30AM – 5:30PM

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

FRI | 7:30AM – 11:30AM

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the road. According to A1 Automotive, abiding by the following tips will help ensure that your winter journeys are safe, stress-free and free from the dangers of the season. • Prepare/Maintain Your Vehicle: Check the battery, brakes and tires, and ensure all essential fluids are at the proper level. Equip your vehicle with winter tires, and keep a winter emergency kit on hand, which should include items like an ice scraper, a shovel, a phone charger, a flashlight, blankets and non-perishable food. While driving, maintain good visibility by regularly cleaning your windows, lights and mirrors. • Drive Slowly and Smoothly: Slow down and drive at a safe, controlled speed. Avoid sudden acceleration, braking or sharp turns to prevent skidding. If your vehicle starts to skid, steer in the direction you want to go. Avoid slamming on the brakes or overcorrecting. Gentle, controlled movements of the steering wheel are key to regaining control. It is also beneficial to increase your following distance from the vehicle in front of you to give you more reaction time. • Stay Informed: Pay attention to weather forecasts and road condition updates. If conditions are extremely treacherous, consider delaying your trip or finding an alternative route. If you plan on driving in dangerous conditions, notify someone about your travel plans and expected arrival time. “Winter driving demands caution, preparation and the ability to adapt to changing conditions. By following these tips, you’ll be equipped to navigate winter conditions, from snow and ice to reduced visibility and cold temperatures. Remember, it's always better to arrive at your destination a little later than to risk your safety by rushing in adverse winter conditions,” shared A1 Automotive Owner Kendall Warnock. Kendall Warnock In addition to following these tips, it is also A1 Automotive recommended to secure an auto insurance package that will cover you in the event an accident happens. Winter driving is unpredictable, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be prepared for every situation. “American Family auto insurance is there when you need us most. With our Travel Peace of Mind package, you receive emergency road service, rental car reimbursement, road trip accommodations and accidental death and dismemberment at a discounted bundle package,” explained Ashley Freese, an Agent with American Family Insurance. “For all the unexpected that can happen during winter driving, we have your back with this package to help take care of you and your vehicle.” For safe driving, and to ensure that you can get the most of your auto insurance, Ahsley recommends abiding by the three P’s for safe driving, namely Prepare, Protect and Prevent. With traffic picking up for the Ashley Freese holidays, it is more important than ever to American Family Insurance over-prepare for your trips. • Prepare for the trip: Before hitting the road, make sure your vehicle is in good working condition and you have all necessary documents, like a valid driver's license and insurance. Preparing mentally by staying focused and alert is equally important. • Protect yourself: This involves using safety features within your vehicle, such as seatbelts, airbags and child safety seats. It also means adhering to speed limits, avoiding distractions like texting or using your phone while driving and refraining from driving under the influence. • Prevent crashes on the road: Vigilance and defensive driving are key to preventing accidents. Anticipate potential hazards, #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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protected

ALL UNDER ONE ROOF CALL FOR A BUNDLE QUOTE TODAY!

ASHLEY FREESE AGENT | LINCOLN NE

afreese@amfam.com 402-441-9227 1610 S 70th St. Ste 100

Serving Lincoln for over 70 years!

• collision & frame repair • full paint service • free estimates • affordable & reliable CALL TODAY! 402.474.4818 • 332 South Antelope Valley Parkway

DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

maintain a safe following distance and obey traffic laws. Be considerate of other drivers and pedestrians, use turn signals and avoid aggressive behaviors. If you get into an accident, even when driving safely, don’t stress. American Family Insurance will be there to help. They can guide you through the claims process, helping you with the necessary paperwork and arrangements to ensure a smooth and efficient resolution. In the event an accident occurs, the primary focus is on ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone involved. Once everyone has been checked out, you’ll need to focus your attention on the condition of your vehicle. If you find yourself in need of auto body repairs, consider reaching out to Midtown Body & Paint. With over 70 years of dedicated service in Lincoln, they specialize in top-notch auto-body repairs, precise framework, comprehensive painting services, paintless dent repair and glass replacement for all vehicle makes and models. The technicians at Midtown stay updated on the latest technological advancements in the industry, ensuring up-to-date and efficient services. Renowned for their commitment to quality work, Midtown has earned a stellar reputation for building enduring Dan Pape relationships through consistently delivering Midtown Body & Paint high-quality repairs and service. “Collisions vary, and some damages may not be immediately visible,” shared Owner Dan Pape. As such, you should have your vehicle inspected even if there's no apparent damage. Certain issues might become evident later on, and can cause a headache if you don’t have this initial inspection. This precautionary step ensures your safety and the optimal functioning of your vehicle in the long run.”

If there's any uncertainty about your vehicle's condition, Dan extends an invitation to reach out to Midtown Body for assistance. Their expert team can assess your vehicle's state and address any concerns you have. Most importantly, Dan emphasizes the importance of maintaining your vehicle in peak condition and adopting safe driving practices. Regular check-ups and prompt attention to any issues contribute to not only the longevity of your vehicle, but also ensure your safety on the road. Dealing with collision damage can be unnerving, taking you by surprise and leaving you unsure about what to do next. Seeking multiple opinions is common, whether the damage is minor due to weather or more substantial from another vehicle. The aftermath of a collision often brings anxiety about talking to your insurance company to discuss the incident and determining if your vehicle is repairable. It's entirely normal to have these concerns and uncertainties, but seeking guidance from professionals and understanding the process can help alleviate the stress associated with such situations. Tracy’s Collision Center uses a customer-focused approach to collision repair. They prioritize understanding and addressing the unique needs and concerns of each customer. From the moment you walk in with your damaged vehicle, they aim to provide not only top-notch repair services, but also a supportive and transparent experience. This approach involves clear communication about the repair process, detailed explanations of the work needed and ensuring that you feel heard and valued throughout the entire journey. The family-owned business has deep roots in Lincoln, with services including painting, frame repair, wheel alignments and paintless dent repair. For 50 years, they’ve been putting drivers back on the road safely. Tracy’s Collision Center stands as a trusted pillar in the community, embodying decades of experience and expertise in the art of collision repair. Navigating winter driving can be intimidating, but in Lincoln, a community of professionals stands ready to assist you.

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Businesses and their

Pets

hroughout challenges, our pets play a remarkable role in our lives, offering not only happiness, but also a profound sense of comfort and emotional support. Business leaders often find themselves immersed in the hustle and bustle of the corporate world, where the pace and challenges can be relentless. It’s during these chaotic and high-pressure situations that our furry companions shine. Their unconditional love, playful antics and the simple joy they bring to our lives act as a counterbalance to the complexities we face in our professional endeavors, making our connection with them all the more precious. At Strictly Business, we believe people choose to do business with people they know, like and trust. As almost every pet owner can attest, our furry friend(s) play a big role in our lives. Getting to “meet” these business leaders’ pets gives us a little look into their hearts and homes. Who doesn’t love photos of cute animals? Reach out to us if you’d like to introduce your pet(s) to all our readers while promoting your business!

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Meet Suzie, the four-legged heartbeat of our team at Associates in Counseling and Treatment. She's not just an office dog; she's an indispensable part of our work family, spreading joy, warmth and a sense of belonging. Suzie's presence is a balm to both our clients and staff. In the often emotionally charged atmosphere of our practice, she brings an aura of tranquility. Her gentle demeanor and soulful eyes seem to say, "It's okay, you're in a safe place." For clients grappling with their own challenges, Suzie provides a comforting, nonjudgmental source of support. Beyond her therapeutic role, Suzie is the team's morale booster. Stressful days are lightened by her antics and

unwavering enthusiasm. She reminds us to take breaks, recharge and embrace the simple joys of life. Suzie's loyalty is a testament to the bonds we form in our workplace. She knows when a pat on the head is needed or when to curl up quietly under a desk to offer solace during a challenging day. Suzie isn't just a dog; she's a symbol of compassion and unity. At Associates in Counseling and Treatment, her wagging tail and unwavering devotion remind us that healing and support can come from the most unexpected places, and she's a cherished part of our team. For more information about Associates in Counseling and Treatment, visit www.actnebraska.org.

Meet Stella and Wallace, the dogs that have the hearts of those at Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate. These cute guys love coming to the office and seeing everyone – and everyone loves seeing them! Wallace is a Norfolk Terrier; fun fact about Wallace is that he is one of the top 20 fastest Norfolk Terriers in the US. Stella is an English Springer Spaniel, and was born right here in Lincoln. Stella’s favorite hobby is jumping into giant leaf piles. Wallace likes to sit in his favorite spot, the bookshelf that fits him perfectly. Together, they love to go visit their friends at Kenl Inn, get their photos professionally taken, going on walks, being social and sitting, shaking, spinning and giving high fives (as long as treats are involved). Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate has helped local business owners purchase, lease and manage

commercial properties since 1973. Their focus on relationship building and understanding each client’s unique circumstances and objectives allow them to tailor a strategy specifically designed to accomplish their client’s goals. Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate is a full-service commercial real estate company offering professional asset management services and brokerage services including leasing, sales, acquisitions, consulting and development. Whatever your commercial real estate needs might be, Greenleaf’s team of professionals is here to help you succeed. For more information on Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate, call (402) 467-2525 or check out the website at www. greenleafcommercial.com. DECEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

Benny is a four-year-old golden doodle, adopted through Domesti-Pups. He has been the resident dog at Legacy Arbors for two years. Michele Carlson, Activities Director at Legacy Arbors, had always wanted a dog, as the residents seemed to enjoy visits from emotional support animals. Benny is the “perfect dog for memory care,” according to Michele. “Benny is very emotionally intelligent and recognizes when residents may be having a bad day and need extra affection,” added Renee Pickerel, Executive Director at Legacy Arbors. Benny is described as gentle, kind and easy going. He roams the building to see his friends

and loves to tag along on special outings and scenic van rides with the residents. All Arbors staff members pitch in to care for Benny, and the residents take great pride in saying he is their dog. “He brings smiles and joy each and every day, not only to our residents, but to our visitors and staff. He has become part of our Legacy family,” Renee shared. Legacy Retirement Communities continues to provide Lincoln with award-winning elegance, superior care and countless reasons to live an enriched life. Learn more at www.LegacyRetirement.com.

Meet Max and Terry Clark with TAC Payroll Solutions! Max was born on February 6, 2022, and became a part of our family on April 7 that year. He's a pretty sweet little dog, but is a bit possessive and apparently, I'm someone he possesses, as he has a little trouble sharing me with my husband. He gets along great with my husband but occasionally gets a little growly if my husband unexpectedly comes too close to me. Max shares his space (not so well either) with his younger brother, Kota, our 80-pound 18-month-old German Shepherd. TAC Payroll Solutions is a local, woman-owned business

serving customers in Lincoln and surrounding areas. Our services include full multi-state payroll services, bookkeeping services and more. As our customer, you can expect great, personalized customer service. Our skilled team will handle every step of your payroll and bookkeeping needs so you can be guaranteed reliable services. Our payroll and bookkeeping services, located in Lincoln, are designed to make your life easier while providing a TAC-tical and personal approach to your payroll and bookkeeping needs. If you would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact me at (531) 249-5800 / terry. clark@tacpayrollsolutions.com.

Coco (11 years), and Hershey (nine months), are two rescue dogs who own Dr. Bob Bleicher, Medical Director of HoriSun Hospice. Coco joined the HoriSun Hospice family in 2012, and Hershey recently joined the family when she was adopted earlier this Spring. Coco and Hershey bring smiles to everyone they encounter, from staff at HoriSun to patients receiving care from HoriSun and their families and caregivers. Coco and Hershey are known to visit senior living communities bringing joy to many residents. Coco has done a wonderful job at training Hershey the past several months in her happiness-bringing role.

HoriSun Hospice has been assisting individuals facing life-limiting illnesses since 2004. Our mission is to care for hospice patients and their loved ones with honor, dignity and respect. Dr. Bleicher has practiced medicine in Lincoln for over 35 years with more than 25 years of hospice medical direction. He is board certified in Hospice and Palliative Care, and has strong beliefs in compassionate care with attention to patients' and families' physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs. For more information about HoriSun Hospice, visit horisunhospice.com.

Owners Pat & Jennifer Moran, along with their two children, welcomed Honey into their family two-anda-half years ago during the height of the pandemic. Honey is a Goldendoodle from northwest Missouri who loves to play and snooze throughout the day, along with the occasional fast-food stop at their trashcan to grab a bite of Jimmy Johns now and then. In October, Honey joined the staff at Lincoln Coin & Bullion. She loves to greet their clients at the door for a good ole fashioned head scratch. And on occasion will hand out a quick lick or two. So, you may ask, “Why have Honey on staff???”

Because one of Lincoln Coin & Bullion’s top priorities is providing their customers with the highest level of privacy and protection as they deal daily in gold, silver, platinum and palladium.

It’s only natural that a veterinarian would have a few pets… Dr. Moravec is the Owner of DRIVETHRU Vet at Driftwood as well as Driftwood Pet Resort & Spaw – and he and his wife, Erica, and five kids are avid dog lovers! Marvel is a five year-old German Shorthaired Pointer who loves to run and play. Tooey is a seven-monthold Boxer puppy who’s currently up to no good, while Scuba is a seven-year-old Boxer couch potato. They LOVE to go to work with Dr Moravec when then get the chance! The Pet Resort & Spaw is load of fun, complete with Strictly Business DECEMBER 2023

a 10-acre private Dog Prairie Dog Park. There are always friends to meet and smells to sniff! DRIVETHRU Vet at Driftwood is an all new way to go to the vet. The dogs love the stress-free convenience of the DRIVETHRU. You can check out Scuba’s annual checkup visit on the website – drivethruvet.com – there’s nothing quite like it! The owner doesn’t even have to get out of the car! DRIVETHRU VET at Driftwood and Driftwood Pet Resort & Spaw are located at 100 McKelvie Rd. just northwest of Lincoln. For more information, call Dr. Tony Moravec (402) 435-3003 or go to drivethruvet.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Honey has been doing such a great job, she’s already barking for a pay raise. For more information on how precious metals can provide security and peace-of mind for you and your family, and to meet Honey in-person, please contact Pat and his team at lincolncoinandbullion.com or give them a call at (402) 327-2853.

A Rocky Real Estate

Road Ahead! High interest rates Low inventory A quickly changing market Wondering where the market is headed? Let PRG, Lincoln's trusted real estate professionals, be your guide! www.PRG-NE.com or call (402) HOMES-4-U

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Drive-Through

Nebraska Christmas Lights Show WITH SYNCHRONIZED MUSIC

NOVEMBER 24 - JANUARY 3 STAR CITY SHORES

4375 S 33rd Ct, Lincoln, NE 68516

DAILY from 5:30 to 11:00pm

ONE CAR = ONE PRICE

Countless Lights

GET YOUR TICKETS ONLINE TODAY!

NebraskaChristmasLightsShow.com A percentage of our proceeds go back to the Lincoln Community!

Largest Drive-Through Christmas Lights Experience!

your ticket online prior to the event! 1 Purchase Tickets are redeemable for one vehicle. will receive an email with a QR Code to 2 You be used upon entrance to the show! enter the show, have the QR code ready 3 To and a representative will scan the code!