Strictly Business Lincoln - January 2023

MIKE vaNDENBErG Southeast Community College

ALLO Means Business

“Our service with ALLO is dependable; it's faster. They're really quick to respond. We can download data much more quickly and be more efficient. It really helps handle the growth that we've experienced in recent years.”

“ALLO’s

Matt

happy new Year from all of us at strictly Business!

A new year brings new opportunities, new beginnings, and the possibility of change. Things in our office have been changing quite a bit recently, but I find that exciting. Change isn’t always a bad thing, and the opportunity to improve is always something to strive for. No matter what your plans are for the year, we hope 2023 brings you success, happiness, and lasting memories.

In regards to the New Year, we all put together our own resolutions for 2023!

This year I want to focus on embracing the changes we’ve made, and empowering my team to continue growing and learning their role at Strictly Business. I want to help each of them reach their full and maximum potential and embrace all of the incredible talents they bring to the office.

On the personal side, I have two resolutions. The first is to travel more. I think we all wish we had more time to see the world, and I want to make sure I’m taking every opportunity I’m given to see a new place or spend time somewhere I love. My other resolution is something I think everyone can take with them into 2023. Gratitude. This year I want to take more time to show my friends and family how much I appreciate them and everything they do. It’s always wonderful to make someone feel appreciated.

Cemre: Resolutions always seem to slip away after about a week, so this year my main resolution is to keep working on my resolutions. This year I want to learn more new recipes, keep up with self-care, lower my screen time, and visit more restaurants in Lincoln. My husband and I just moved here in July so there are a ton of places we have yet to hit! If you have any suggestions I would be happy to hear them. Overall, I am looking forward to starting a new year with the Strictly Business team.

Tessa: I can’t believe we are at the beginning of a new year. These past few months working at Strictly Business have flown by and I am so excited for 2023. My resolutions this year are pretty basic. I want to cook more at home, get more exercise in, and read more books. I have a habit of buying books, but haven’t quite got around to the reading part. My sisters also got me a beginner guitar and guitar lessons for Christmas, so learning how to play the guitar will be a great hobby this year.

Abby: My New Year’s resolutions for 2023 are to take more time to read books and start a journal to learn more about myself and become more connected with myself. Journaling is a great way to process emotions and situations in your day to day life that may get swept under the rug usually. On the physical health side, I would like to go to the gym and get more exercise. That always seems to be on the top of everyone’s list at the beginning of the year but I hope to stick with it!

Derek: I usually avoid making New Year’s resolutions because I have a tendency to create unachievable goals. This year though, I believe that I’m in a better place to make goals that I can reach. My first would be to dedicate five hours a week to doing hobbies that I’ve cast aside because scrolling on my phone is less effort. I miss reading fiction, painting, drawing, and being outdoors. My grandmother was also recently diagnosed with dementia and that has shifted my focus towards cherishing the time I still have left with her and my other elderly family members. Between getting started in my career and settling into married life, it’s been a tough balance to strike, but making time for those family members is important to me. My last goal would be to expand my graphic design knowledge – whether that’s by taking classes locally, watching YouTube videos, or collaborating with other designers. In this field, you either adapt and grow, or you become stagnant. In a sense, that’s how I’m approaching all of my goals in 2023.

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.

this year i want to focus on embracing the changes we’ve made, and empowering my team to continue growing and learning their role at strictly Business.

ALLO Communications

Celebrating 20 Years of Connections

For 20 years, supporting businesses has been ALLO's business. Maybe you’ve noticed: ALLO has been making headlines and growing in a major way.

In 2003 ALLO began building its first gigabit fiber market and they had a big vision for their future and their growth. To them, growing means expanding their fiber footprint and for their employees, it means even bigger career opportunities. Although they started small back in 2003 with four employees, they now have their ubiquitous fiber network being supported by over 1,200 team members.

Today ALLO currently has operations in 30 communities across Nebraska, Colorado, and Arizona. As a telecommunications company with a vision and a goal to create positive change, they have taken a top-of-mind customer focus approach and this approach is backed by their cutting-edge technology. While ALLO is known for their fast internet and superior customer service, they believe that is just the baseline for being a local business.

From small business to big business and everything in between, ALLO provides an award-winning technology that works for your business starting with phones, internet, and TV. For the third 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.

They look forward to many more years of progress and development in this great city. The fiber future is bright, and they are excited to be celebrating 20-years of building long-lasting connections.

WHAT IS FIBER?

ALLO’s all-fiber network is made of glass, allowing data to flow in its natural form, light. The beauty of nature is that it can exceed our expectations and amaze us with its efficiency when left alone. Data flows much faster and farther by light and without the annoying interruptions copper cabling receives from electrical interference.

Fiber Voice: Reliable, crystal-clear phone connections and a full range of offerings for all businesses including standard analog lines, SIP, PRI's Hosted PBX system, easy-to-use phone management portal, and conference calling.

Fiber Data: Amazingly-fast 100% fiber network to increase productivity, plus ALLO's leading cloud service connectivity, Internet, Metro Ethernet, and WAN Connecting you to variuos locations around the world.

Fiber TV: ALLO's all-fiber signal delivers the best picture quality available, plus customizable TV packages allowing you to choose from over 110 channels based on your business needs. ALLO looks to meet even more business needs with the addition of a direct connection to Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure.

sweet things by marcy expands and moves into new Commercial space

Sweet Things by Marcy is excited to announce that they have expanded into a new commercial space. The shared space was acquired at the beginning of December. With this space, Marcy is excited for the ability to expand her menu as well. The hope is to offer more options for pies, cobblers, and more, and to partner with more local restaurants. She wants to thank the community for being patient through this transition. This is not a storefront. Pick up locations will stay the same and delivery is available. Sweet Things by Marcy is exclusively sold at Lila Mae’s Southern Kitchen. Check out this awesome local restaurant to get a taste of what Marcy’s got baking!

Sweet Things by Marcy is a home-based bakery in Lincoln that has a vibrant menu of sweet treats. Exclusively offered at Lila Mae’s Southern Kitchen, Marcy’s desserts are sure to get your mouth watering. To check out their menu or make an order for pickup or delivery, go to www.sweetthingsbymarcy.com, or reach out to them directly at sweetthingsbymarcy@gmail.com, or call (402) 540-6982.

Commonwealth Acquires salt Lake Citybased Company rydalch electric, inc.

Commonwealth Holdings, Inc. is proud to announce the expansion of its operations in Salt Lake City, UT following the acquisition of Rydalch Electric, Inc.

Rydalch Electric is a long-time leader in Utah construction projects, providing electrical construction services for the state’s commercial, institutional, and industrial markets. The company’s capabilities include a complete design-build and construction management team, as well as a knowledgeable service department. A Utah-based company for over 25 years, Rydalch Electric has established great relationships with its customers, general contractors, and developers.

“The combination of Rydalch Electric’s employees and customer base, plus the resources and new opportunities that Commonwealth brings to the table, will foster an even stronger company,” said President/CEO T Michael Price of Commonwealth Holdings, Inc.

Rydalch Electric will continue to operate under the same name and build upon its reputation and history in the Salt Lake area. Rydalch Electric’s leadership and staff will remain in place, leading its day-to-day operations. Its general contractors, subcontractors, and vendors will see no interruption in the same great service to which they have become accustomed.

Commonwealth Holdings, Inc. was formed earlier this year in October as the parent company of Commonwealth Electric Company of the Midwest. Commonwealth will be combining its resources with Rydalch Electric’s highly-trained professionals to deliver excellent electrical services to the Salt Lake City area, in addition to its current locations in Nebraska, Iowa, and Arizona. For more information, visit www.commonwealthelectric.com.

maven tile & stone wins small Business of the Year at 2022 Celebrate Business Awards

Maven Tile & Stone is proud to announce they have won the 2022 award for Small Business of the Year at the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce’s Celebrate Business Awards in December. The Small Business of the Year Award is intended to honor a business which best exemplifies the spirit of free enterprise in Lincoln. Businesses are nominated for the award by the public, so it is a true testament to the community’s response to Maven and the wonderful things they are doing in Lincoln.

The studio at Maven Tile & Stone allows customers to bring their design ideas to life, creating custom looks unique to their room dimensions, tile and stone preferences. They specialize in full house projects including interior and exterior. Maven features the finest selection of tile and stone from respected manufacturers all over the world for every function and every style, right here in Lincoln.

Maven Tile & Stone has the finest selection of tile and stone from respected manufacturers from all over the world. They pride themselves on giving you the tools, advice, and resources you need for your project. They are dedicated to creating the perfect vision, and offer several services to the Lincoln area. If you want more information, you can reach them by phone at (531) 249-5917, or check out their website maventileandstone.com.

Lutz named 2022 next Generation workplace

Lutz is excited to announce that it has been named the 2022 Next Generation Workplace by the Lincoln Young Professionals Group. Each year they recognize the outstanding efforts and contributions of individuals and organizations in the Lincoln community during their Young Lincoln Leader Awards (YLLA) Gala. Applicants are reviewed and selected by a diverse panel of community members including business leaders, nonprofits and public service representatives.

“Lutz is excited to be recognized as a Next Generation Workplace. We opened our Lincoln office in 2016 and have seen tremendous growth in the Lincoln community since then. Our continued expansion is a direct result of the culture built by our high-caliber team members. We will continue to provide a workplace that encourages collaboration, communication, and client service, all while remaining active in the Lincoln community and having fun along the way,” said Lutz Audit & Consulting Shareholder Ryan Cook.

Lutz retains young professionals through a variety of activities, benefits, programs, and a family-oriented culture. Whether serving meals for those in need or holding an impromptu pingpong tournament in the office, they believe that their hard-working employees deserve a productive, flexible, and fun work environment.

Lutz is the business solutions firm for people seeking a partner to help energize and heighten financial and organizational success. They embrace your business as their own to spark the right solutions and help you thrive. Learn more at www.lutz.us.

L-r: president/Ceo t michael price of Commonwealth holdings, inc., president mark rydalch of rydalch electric, inc.

Luxury Landscape opens newly renovated Office Space

Luxury Landscape is excited to announce their newly renovated office space located at 2300 S Folsom Ct. in Lincoln. The renovation began in October of this year, by cleaning up an old office area in their existing shop. They opened the new space in December.

The crew had fun painting and updating the space for it to be a functioning office. Ken and Jackie Svoboda, owners of Luxury Landscape, had a working office in their home since launching Luxury Landscape in 2018 and are super excited to be working out of their new office.

“We’re excited to have a comfortable place to meet with customers and suppliers and have increased communication and efficiency with our crews! We’re looking forward to being more organized and have a better flow of daily operations, with improved communication with our clients,” Jackie stated.

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.

hBAL’s Lincoln home Builders Care foundation donates $3K to santa Cop

The Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation recently presented a check for $3,000 to the Lincoln Police Union Charities. These funds will help purchase toys which will be given directly to children with whom the officers come into contact. Although Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL) members weren’t able to build wooden toys as they have in the past, the hope is to resume building toys for Santa Cop in 2023.

HBAL’s annual Santa Cop Project is one of the many ways its members give back to the community. The Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation awards scholarships to seniors from southeast Nebraska high schools that will be attending an accredited college, university, or technical college and majoring in one of the construction fields.

HBAL and the Remodelers Council award $1000 scholarships which are open to any senior. The President’s Scholarship is $1500 and open to a senior who has a relative who is a member or is employed by a member of HBAL. In 2022, over $6,500 in scholarships were awarded to students furthering their education.

More information about the Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation including the 2023 scholarship application can be found at www.hbal.org.

The Home Builders Association of Lincoln is a visible, effective, and respected trade association which promotes home building through professional education, member communication, and civic participation, and which represents builders and associated professionals in community, government, and industry forums. For more information, visit hbal.org.

Cyberbacker set Goals to Build partnerships with emerging talent and Businesses

From investors, entrepreneurs, leaders, and every other business owner who knows how to scale their business using leverage, Cyberbacker has provided hiring services with top-flight support staff. They recently updated their mission into something that accurately describes what they are currently doing and what they plan on continuously doing for their clients.

Cyberbacker set their goals by the number of jobs they want to provide. Back in 2021, they set a goal of having 15,000 Cyberbackers by the end of 2025. After exceeding goals and consistently doubling year after year since 2018, they now have their goals set to achieve 10,000 Cyberbackers by the end of 2023.

The company has been able to help over 3000 business owners find their perfect hire through their rigorous filtering process and second to none training and support teams. Averaging at about 50,000 candidates that they go through every month, Cyberbacker only hires less than 1% in order to find the right candidates.

Cyberbacker Nebraska-Iowa is part of the global Cyberbacker franchise, the leading provider of world-class administrative support services from anywhere in the world to anyone in the world. They ensure you have the suitable partner of your choosing for your business. You can learn more by visiting their website at www.cyberbacker.com or contact them at nebraska-iowa@ cyberbacker.com / (515) 217-6387.

CBd American shaman to release rise to rest packages

CBD American Shaman is kicking off the New Year with the new Rise to Rest package. This special combination of products is a great tool to start and end your day off right.

The rise to rest package contains a bottle of the CBGo Water Soluble, CBD Water Soluble, and a bottle of the CBNight Water Soluble. CBGo focuses on more energy, alertness, and focus. The CBD Water Soluble helps get the whole body back into balance. The CBNight focuses on one thing and one thing only, better sleep.

From morning to night, CBD American Shaman has you covered. They invite you into one of their three Lincoln locations to learn more and try a free sample. Products at CBD American Shaman include a full line of CBD products for people and pets, along with Delta 8, Delta 9, and HHC products. All products are industrial hemp derived and Farm Bill 2018 compliant. American Shaman’s proprietary nanotechnology makes their products nine times more bio-available which gives consumers a 90-100% absorption rate compared to the 10-30% absorption rate of most other CBD companies.

CBD American Shaman is U.S. Hemp Authority certified. To learn more about what CBD American Shaman has to offer, email lincolnamshaman@ gmail.com or visit their website at www.CBDofLincoln.com.

Center sphere sets January network events

Center Sphere hosts a wide array of networking events to help members expand their professional network and grow their businesses. Center Sphere is pleased to announce an upcoming network-wide Coffee and Connections on Thursday, January 19 from 8:30 to 10 a.m., hosted by Corey Poulosky from Ameritas Wealth Advisors at 6355 S 56th St.

Join fellow Center Sphere members and guests for Meet The Network this month to hear all about The Network and the best ways to maximize your membership. The January date and location are still being determined. Reach out to Ashley at Ashley@CenterSphere.com for more information.

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 or (402) 690-4434.

Powering Your Merchant Services

ovation salon & house of wigs Undergoes renovations for refreshed salon experience

The team at Ovation Salon & House of Wigs has been working diligently to create a salon environment that is a home away from home for all of their clients. With their newest renovation that is well underway, clients will be able to enjoy a cozy lounge experience before their appointment. John Aquirre, the proud of owner of the company, has spent 44 years undoubtedly devoted to his business. His team is a family of hardworking stylists that have all worked together for 15 years. They have been established for five years at their south location at 5955 S 56th St., and previously they were at their north location for 13 years. They work to take care of their clientele through all forms of beauty such as styling hair wigs, barber services, hair services, skin, and wax treatments. Not only does Ovation offer these stellar services, they also support and give back to the community by donating wigs to cancer patients that have experienced hair loss. Consultations and fittings are always done in a private room for your comfort.

Ovation Salon & House of Wigs offers a full menu of spa services to help you relax, refresh, and renew. Their experienced team provides the highest standards with quality products from the most trusted names in the beauty industry. To schedule an appointment, call (402) 467-4646 or visit ovation.salon for more information.

Lincoln human resources management Association opens 2023 memberships

The Lincoln Human Resources Management Association (LHRMA) has opened their memberships for 2023. The membership process includes completing an online form at lincolnhr.org/about/become-a-member and paying the $125 membership dues, which covers membership through December 31 of the current calendar year. The membership committee will forward the application with their recommendation to the Executive Board for action, and Membership Chair Justin Schreier will contact you regarding your membership status following the Executive Board meeting.

The benefit of becoming a LHRMA member is that not only will you get access to annual benefits such as professional networking, legislative updates, scholarships programs, community advertising, HR open jobs, discounts to salary survey, and diversity programs, but it will also cover admission to live or virtual attendance to LHRMA’s monthly education programs.

All memberships in the Lincoln Human Resources Management Association shall be individual memberships. Firm or agency memberships are not allowed. Memberships are not transferable from one individual to another.

The mission of LHRMA is to provide for the interchange of ideas, experiences, and methods concerning the relationships between management and employees, and to provide professional ethics and acquaintanceship among those involved in professional human resource management. LHRMA provides all members with access to a membership listing that is to be used strictly as a tool to reinforce the mission of the organization. For more information, visit LincolnHR. org or contact membership@lincolnhr.org.

Venue restaurant & Lounge to host Luau Cocktail dinner January 29

Venue Restaurant & Lounge is excited to invite the community to their Luau Cocktail Dinner on January 29. The event will take place at 6 p.m. at Venue, and reservations must be made at (402) 488-8368. The $75 five-course meal will feature delicious food and drinks from Victoria Frerichs and mixologist Barrie Kuhn. Guests can expect a vibrant menu with specialty drinks paired with each course. For the first course, enjoy tuna poke with an accompanied “Sparkling POG” cocktail. The second course features saimin with a paired Mai Tai. Next comes a Kahlua pig “lunch plate” with a Blue Hawaiian cocktail, followed by the fourth course “Loco Moco” with a Lava Flow beverage. The final course finishes the meal with a poi donut and dragonfruit gimlet.

Venue Restaurant & Lounge is a part of PILLAR Restaurant Group, a locally-owned company that also consists of Goodcents Deli Fresh Subs, Piedmont Bistro by Venue, and Venue Catering & Events, with the Jasmine Room by Venue and the Scottish Rite Ballroom by Venue. For more information, go to yourvenue.net. Additional questions can be directed to Craig Zimmerman at (402) 488-8368 / craig@yourvenue.net.

ALLo releases new desktop and Cordless phones for Business

ALLO is thrilled to announce the release of new desktop and cordless phones to fit a wide range of business phone needs. With a sleek and innovative new look, and features perfect for businesses of any size, ALLO’s new hosted phone solutions on an all-fiber connection make doing business a breeze. Visit AlloFiber.com/Business to request a free customized business evaluation today.

ALLO was founded in the midwest with a big mission: to improve the quality of life by delivering world-class, fiber solutions to our cities. True to their roots, ALLO set out to do business the right way, with honesty and their customer’s best interests in mind. ALLO’s growth and success are due to their reputation for outstanding customer service, technical capabilities, experienced, knowledgeable personnel, and superior products. ALLO provides customers with the most modern network and employs a team of engineers, operators, and technical experts who collaborate with customers to develop creative and dependable solutions to utilize ALLO’s fiber network.

ALLO currently serves 34 communities in Nebraska, Colorado, and Arizona, with a total population of more than 800,000. They are excited to bring their exceptional customer service and internet speeds to more communities in 2023. Hassle-free service and a 100% fiber-optic network will improve how students learn and employees work, whether from home, schools, or business. For more information, go to allofiber.com or call (844) 560-2556.

Lincoln Young professionals Group Announces new Leadership for 2023

The Lincoln Young Professionals Group (YPG) announced the results of their 2023 executive leadership election and the addition of three members to the leadership council.

Bryce Morgan, Nebraska Bank of Commerce, was elected to serve as YPG’s 2023 chair for a second term. Alyssa Christiansen, Mourning Hope, will serve as vice chair, with Micah Lindblad, Hudl, in the role of secretary.

“I am thrilled to serve for a second year as YPG Chair. We have great momentum as we enter 2023 and I believe our new members will only add to that,” said Morgan.

Derek Kay, FNBO, Courtney Strayer, University of Nebraska - Lincoln, and Zach Witt, Bryan Health, will join the council for a two-year term, with the option to serve an additional two years. Kay, Strayer, and Witt have been active members of the organization for several years, holding leadership roles through the YPG Champions program.

“We’re so excited to welcome Derek, Courtney, and Zach to the team,” said Mia Wilken, event and program manager. “Their contributions to the organization have already made an impact, and we look forward to working with them on council.”

The Lincoln Young Professionals Group is dedicated to empowering young professionals with educational, leadership and networking opportunities. To learn more or join, visit LincolnYPG.com.

windstream named in the Gartner® magic Quadrant™ for Unified Communications

Windstream, a privately held communications and software company, announced it has been named by Gartner to the 2022 Magic Quadrant ™ for Unified Communications as a Service, Worldwide report for its flagship UCaaS product, OfficeSuite UC® . Windstream is one of just 12 providers to be named in the 2022 Magic Quadrant ™ for Unified Communications as a Service, Worldwide, an annual report that evaluates offerings and providers based on rigorous criteria. This cloud-based telephony and unified communications solution enables collaboration through a secure, reliable, and user-friendly platform via a readily scalable set of tools designed for today’s fast-changing hybrid work environments. Earlier this year, Windstream expanded the reach of OfficeSuite UC ® into Europe and Asia, extending the solution’s seamless communications and collaboration experience to organizations that operate on a global scale.

“We partner with businesses from small to enterprise-sized to bring high-speed connection, collaboration, continuity and cybersecurity solutions,” Marc Dyman, executive vice president for Kinetic Business by Windstream, said. “OfficeSuite UC is a 100% cloud-based phone, mobility and unified communications system that gives business a competitive edge and enables users to better connect with and serve their customers from anywhere using any device.”

To learn more about OfficeSuite UC® and other communications solutions, visit windstreamenterprise.com or business.windstream.com.

Kinetic Business by Windstream has the right network solutions for businesses of all sizes, from fiber-fast Internet Connectivity, to the best collaboration, continuity, and cybersecurity tools. To learn more, visit kineticbusiness.com.

Happy New Year from Oak Electric!

eschliman Commercial real estate releases fAQ

website page

Eschliman Commercial Real Estate wants to educate those searching for commercial space on what to expect when starting the process. Many who are new to searching for commercial space for retail, office, or industrial use may not be aware how building owners price monthly leases. The Eschliman Commercial Real Estate website “Frequently Asked Questions” page (FAQ) found at www.ecrproperty.com/faqs covers details which are often a surprise to a new tenant—details regarding expenses not covered in the base price per square foot rent. Working with a commercial real estate agent, unavoidable charges such as property tax, snow removal, and structural insurance can be explored and explained in the process of negotiating a lease, or even better, anticipated in the initial search for location and price.

These are landlord costs passed on to the tenant, and it’s important to know which are included in the rate quoted (“gross” or “modified gross”), or set up as an annually adjusted list of operational expense, otherwise known as “triple nets” or “NNN” leasing. These can also include Common Area Maintenance (CAM), janitorial, association dues, or security, and can go up (or down) depending on changes in these expenses. They must be transparent and reported as they are adjusted at the end of a cycle.

For more information about Eschliman Commercial Real Estate, visit www.ecrproperty.com or call (402) 420-3239. Email inquiries to info@ecrproperty.com.

Greenleaf Commercial realty welcomes new tenant first day Vinyl

Greenleaf Commercial Realty is excited to welcome their new tenant, First Day Vinyl, at 7301 S 27th St. The record store opened on December 1, and is owned and operated by Travis Mannschreck.

“My goal for First Day Vinyl is to lower the bar for entry to those new to collecting vinyl. We have a large, clean, inclusive space for customers to take their time while browsing, and we carry music from a wide variety of genres so there is something in the racks for everyone,” said Travis. “We want to serve the existing vinyl community, but our larger goal is to expand it. We do this by staying up to date on modern artists and stocking their albums, as well as carrying quality, affordable new turntables so high school and college students can take up vinyl collecting as a way to engage with music and their friends.”

First Day Vinyl is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Learn more about First Day Vinyl and Travis on Instagram (@firstdayvinyl / @tmannne) and at firstdayvinyl.com.

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.

nhdA releases rentwise tenant and housing provider education tool online

Nebraska Housing Developers Association (NHDA) is excited to introduce their new program that is launching this January, RentWise Online: Tenant and Housing Provider Education Tool. RentWise is a program which increases community awareness and support for quality, affordable rental housing. It is a program to help renters obtain and keep rental housing and to be successful renters through education. In the past, this was strictly a paper-based face-to-face education tool provided by property managers, housing authorities, and service providers to name a few. Many people do not have access to transportation, childcare, or are unable to miss work during the day to attend these classes. Therefore, creating it as an online tool will allow NHDA to educate more people throughout the Lincoln area and across the state of Nebraska.

As a part of the online version, they are adding an additional, new course targeted at housing providers. This new course will provide a functional baseline of ‘Fair Housing Education’ for both new and experienced landlords. Landlords and property managers who complete this course will be able to easily share their properties with future tenants in marketing material.

For more information visit the Nebraska RentWise website, rentwise. org, or contact Amber Marker at amber@housingdevelopers.org or (402) 435-0315 ext. 2.

Established in 1996, the Nebraska Housing Developers Association has a membership base of more than 70 organizations working to strengthen the state’s economic vitality by making safe, affordable housing available to all Nebraskans. For more information please visit housingdevelopers.org.

Li-Cor environmentalAcquiresAnemomentLLC

LI-COR Environmental acquired Anemoment LLC on December 13. Anemoment LLC makes lightweight, low-power sonic anemometers.

“Anemoment products are known for their high performance, ruggedness, low power consumption, and portability, and those characteristics align well with LI-COR standards,” said Kristin Feese, vice president and general manager of LI-COR Environmental.

This acquisition brings new expertise, core technology, and products to LI-COR in adjacent markets, and supports the long-term growth and stability of Anemoment products.

“Personally, I could not be more pleased with the commitments made by LI-COR ensuring that the TriSonica family of sonic sensors are here for the long haul in quality, quantity, and variety to meet the growing demands of our market and customers,” said Elizabeth Osborn, Anemoment CEO. LI-COR and Anemoment look forward to integrating their reputations and strong global presence to better serve the needs of the environmental monitoring markets.

Anemoment is a leader in the design and manufacturing of mobile sensing systems used in exacting meteorological applications around the globe. Anemoment sonic sensors are lightweight and powerful, allowing researchers to capture essential data with precision.

LI-COR is an industry-leading environmental technology innovator of high-quality instrument systems for eddy covariance, plant physiology, soil gas flux, light, gas analysis, and greenhouse gas research. LI-COR instruments and systems are used around the world. For more information, you can visit their website at www.licor.com, or contact Rod Madsen by phone at (402) 467-0641 or email at rod.madsen@licor.com.

Lincoln Airport Continues work on terminal renovations

The Lincoln Airport is getting a major facelift to its almost 50 year old terminal building. Sampson Construction, the general contractor, has been hard at work constructing a 35,000-squarefoot addition, with plans for phase one to be complete around the beginning of the summer.

Opening the north part of the terminal will triple the number of gates, consolidate security and ticketing operations, and provide an upgraded restaurant and concessions area. Once the northern part of the terminal opens, construction will shift to the south end which will take roughly eight to ten months to complete. Most of that construction will consist of administrative offices and a new board/community room which will fit up to 100 people.

The Airport recently announced new service to Houston on United Airlines which has been performing better than expected, and LNK hopes people who want to travel south during the colder months continue to take advantage of the new route and support flying local. For more information regarding the LNKNext Terminal project and to see updated photos and renderings, passengers can visit Next. LincolnAirport.com. To book a flight, visit goflylnk.com.

The Lincoln Airport, owned and operated by the Lincoln Airport Authority, is a calm, hassle free travel spot for the people of Nebraska. LNK is the starting point for Nebraskans to get to international airports such as Chicago, Denver, and now Houston, and they pride themselves on making sure people start their travels on a good note. For more information about flights and services, visit lincolnairport.com or call (402) 458-2480.

Union Bank & trust doubles magic moments honorees for 20th Anniversary

Union Bank & Trust (UBT) is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Magic Moments program by doubling the honorees in 2022. Magic Moments is UBT’s holiday giving program where they select special people in the Lincoln community deserving of a little extra magic. Instead of the usual ten, this year UBT will be honoring 20 deserving people. Honorees receive gifts tailored to their family and needs. Whether it is specific toys, activities to do as a family, vacations, or spa packages, UBT and their partners make sure these deserving families have everything they need for a perfect holiday. This year’s partners are Scheels, Super C, Lincoln Children’s Museum, Lincoln Children’s Zoo, KLKN, U-Stop, and donations from over 40 other local businesses. The support from the community is the true magic of this program.

Union Bank & Trust is a privately owned Nebraska bank that offers complete banking, lending, investment, and trust services, in addition to serving as program manager for Nebraska’s NEST College Savings Plan. The bank has 38 full-service and loan production offices in Nebraska and Kansas. It is the third-largest privately owned bank in Nebraska, with bank assets of $7 billion and trust assets of $43.4 billion as of June 30, 2022. To learn more, visit ubt.com.

Choices treatment Center promotes Gift responsibly Campaign

Choices Treatment Center is promoting the Gift Responsibly campaign against problem gambling.

The Gift Responsibly Campaign has been developed to raise awareness about the risks of underage lottery use. Whether or not it is legal for minors to participate in lottery games in your area, a responsible gambling message is always appropriate. Lottery products are never appropriate gifts for children.

This campaign is presented by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University.

Additional facts regarding youth and gambling:

• 10-14% of adolescents are at-risk for developing a problem with gambling.

• 4-6% of adolescents presently have a serious problem with gambling.

• Approximately 60% of high-school-aged adolescents report having gambled for money in the past year.

• Many young people report their first gambling experience occurs around 9-11 years of age.

• Children who have early exposure to gambling experiences are four times more likely to develop a gambling problem.

If you are concerned about the gambling behavior of yourself or a loved one, please contact the Nebraska Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-833-BET-OVER (238-6837). This 24/7 helpline will provide free and confidential resources for the nearest GAP-certified gambling counselor as well as provide proper resources for a gambler in crisis.

Choices Treatment Center is an outpatient treatment and recovery facility committed to helping individuals overcome problems related to gambling, substance abuse, and mental health through a holistic approach so all co-occurring issues may be addressed. Visit www. choicestreatmentcenter.com for more information.

Check out a

Discovery Session

www.leadershipharbor.com

BUsiness news

skin experts introduces new Custom treatment plan in 2023

Skin Experts is excited to announce a new Custom Treatment Plan in January.

With this personalized program, you will be able to see your skin transform. You’ll work with their Skin Experts to choose the modalities and boosters for your skin type. Clients will receive guidance from professional Skin Experts. With this membership, you receive 12 Signature Facials OR 6 Signature Facials AND 12 Express Facials to use any time, plus 10% off products to maintain the glow at home, or 15% off when you purchase four or more products. You’ll save 25% with the Custom Treatment Plan (equivalent to TWO FREE months) PLUS choose a FREE product of your choice ($99 value).

We are in a new day and age where facial treatments need to go beyond surface level. By combining advanced technologies with revolutionary skincare using ingredients for proven results, Skin Experts is here to create long-term change you can really see. Customizing your facial for your skin type enhances the benefits and targets your personal skin goals, you’ll see a transformation worth sharing.

Skin Experts offers luxury, hi-tech facials for all skin types at an unbelievable price. When it comes to skincare, they combine revolutionary technology from Europe and Asia with carefully curated ingredients that work synergistically to help skin look fuller, fresher, and younger. For more information on personalizing your skincare, visit www.skinexperts. com, or contact hellolincoln@skinexperts.com / (531) 500-5224.

Better Business Bureau shares new Year’s resolution tips for small Businesses

The Better Business Bureau is gearing up for 2023 with some words of advice for small businesses. Scaling and sustainability will continue to be the primary focus for any small business owner in 2023.

Here are five business New Year’s resolutions that you may want to consider:

1. Build a strong digital footprint – Aside from having a website, make sure you are building out a solid content marketing strategy that will help you create valuable content pieces that will drive engagement and sales.

2. Promote your business consistently – Rather than waiting for the holidays to push larger promotions, find ways that you can creatively promote your business throughout the year. This ensures that you stay top of mind for your target customers.

3. Personalize the entire buyer journey – The days of communicating “at” your target audience in hopes that they will buy from you are now a thing of the past. Know that 71% of consumers feel frustrated when a shopping experience is impersonal.

4. Embrace an effective technology stack – From social media to email marketing, know that every single piece of technology you leverage to communicate with your customers must effectively impact your business goals.

5. Reduce costs – Save money wherever you can without compromising quality. Reducing cost doesn’t mean that you focus merely on just overhead. There are various ways you can go about cutting back spending while also pushing for growth.

Learn more about the Better Business Bureau at bbb.org/nebraska.

farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping moves to north Lincoln Location

Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping moved its Pioneers location to the Meadowlane Shopping Center at 70th and Vine in December. Locally owned by Jeff and Nicole Essink, Farrell’s offers kickboxing, strength training, and Ten Week Challenge classes. Farrell’s also offers nutrition coaching and at-home workouts.

“We are very excited to become a part of the Meadowlane neighborhood,” Jeff Essink said. “Our mission is to help our members achieve their fitness goals, and we saw an opportunity to help an underserved part of the community with that.”

Farrell’s will start the new year with a Ten Week Challenge beginning on January 7, and registration is now open. The gym also offers several classes each day Monday through Saturday at both its new Meadowlane location and 3900 Yankee Hill Rd. Learn more about Farrell’s at fxblincoln.com or contact Jeff Essink at (402) 310-4026 / jeffessink@extremebodyshaping.com.

Cathy Kottwitz of Guiderock Commercial Realty represented Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping in leasing the new location. Guiderock Commercial Realty is a Lincoln-based commercial real estate firm providing services for business owners and investors. For more information, visit www.guiderockrealty.com or contact Cathy Kottwitz at (402) 421-7474 / cathy@guiderockrealty.com.

Lincoln federal savings Bank Chooses winner of making Branches Bright Campaign

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank held their fifth annual Making Branches Bright campaign this December. Each year, Lincoln Federal Savings Bank employees decorate trees at their branch, and dedicate it to a charity in their area. Hasting High Food Pantry won this year’s prize, nominated by the Hastings branch of Lincoln Federal Savings Bank. The trees then get posted on social media where the public can vote for the winner. This year, the prize was $500.

Participating branches and their chosen charities for 2022 were:

• Old Cheney: CEDARS Foster Care

• Wilderness: Make-A-Wish Nebraska

• 70th & O St.: Heartland Cancer Foundation

• Blair: Joseph’s Coat/Washington Co. Food Pantry

• North Platte: Nebraska 4-H

• Omaha: Scatter Joy Acres

• Superior St.: Friendship Home of Lincoln

• Fremont: Keep Fremont Beautiful, Inc

• Hastings: Hastings High Food Pantry

• Benkelman: Dundy County Food Pantry

• Corporate: Nebraska Sports Council

• Holdrege: L2 for Kids - Clothes for Youth

• McCook: ABC Pregnancy Help Center, McCook, NE

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is a depositor-owned financial institution specializing in residential home loans, construction loans, home equity products, commercial real estate loans, and wide range of checking and savings products. The corporate office is located at 8400 Maddox Dr. (84th and Van Dorn) and can be reached by phone at (402) 474-1400. Learn more at lincolnfed.com. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Awards seven at Celebrate Business Luncheon

The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and its member organizations are excited to recognize the following award winners from the 2022 Celebrate Business Awards held at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel on December 6:

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – Maven Tile & Stone

• The Small Business of the Year Award is intended to honor a business which best exemplifies the spirit of free enterprise in Lincoln.

MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR – Bison

• The Manufacturer of the Year Award serves to bring attention to Lincoln’s manufacturing community and the contributions made to Lincoln both economically and socially.

GREEN BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – Arbor Day Carbon, LLC

• The Green Business of the Year Award is designed to honor a business that has gone beyond local, state and federal environmental regulations to create an environmentally responsible business.

ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT AWARD – Sentinel Fertigation

• The Entrepreneurial Spirit Award recognizes a person or company that has exemplified creativity in the development of enterprise in Lincoln.

TOM LORENZ TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AWARD – Lincoln Youth Complex Committee

• The Tourism Development Award recognizes the business that has exemplified creativity in the development of the tourism industry.

CORNERSTONE AWARD

– NGC Group, Inc.

• The Cornerstone Award is presented to the entity whose entrepreneurship and skillful endeavor has added to the economic base of our community and provided opportunity for others to live and work in Lincoln.

ROGER T. LARSON COMMUNITY BUILDER AWARD – Tim Clare

• The Roger T. Larson Community Builder Award is given each year to an exceptional candidate whose proven leadership and influence through public service has shaped the Lincoln community.

Learn more about The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce at www.lcoc.com.

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 tessa@strictlybusinessomaha.com, or submit your news online via www.strictly-business.com.

it’s not what You Know, it’s who You Know and who Knows You!

rise Lincoln to host 2023 Kickoff party

first event of 2023 as they kick off the new year with a networking cocktail reception at Ameritas, 5900 O St.

won’t want to miss this opportunity to connect with other impactful women from Lincoln’s business community and learn more about RISE.

This event will be Thursday, January 12, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., and is free for all attendees. You can visit lcoc.weblinkconnect. com/events to register. Spots fill up quickly, so make sure to sign up today. This will be RISE’s first event as a program under the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, so the buzz around this event is even more exciting!

Since its founding, RISE has united hundreds of women through networking, education, civic engagement, and personal coaching. The events the hold will continue to feature empowering speakers and respected female leaders in the community, giving attendees the opportunity to learn from incredible executives and visionaries.

RISE was launched eight years ago as a motivating series designed to connect the community of Lincoln’s women business leaders through networking, education, civic engagement and personal coaching. Beginning in 2023, the Lincoln Chamber is excited to take on the operations of the program as a continued valuable platform, free of barriers, for women to connect, grow and thrive in Lincoln. For more information, you can visit their website at www.riselincoln.org, or shoot them an email at hello@riselnk.com.

All pro heating & Air opens nominations for free furnace Giveaway

All Pro Heating & Air is giving away a free furnace to a family in need within their service area.

All Pro loves being a part of this community and giving back locally, so now this is where you come in!

Taking the time to nominate someone is an easy way to pay it forward. If you know a family who is in dire need of a new furnace, but doesn’t have the resources to get one, fill out the form at allprolincoln.com/ furnace-giveaway and explain who they are and why the deserve a new air conditioner. The recipient will be selected once all entries have been received and will be chosen at random, by a third party. Applications are due by January 20. A winner will be chosen and notified on January 31.

Promotion details:

• Nominee must own their home and provide proof of ownership.

• Nominee’s furnace must be at least 15 years old.

• Individuals must sign a release and allow for publicity.

• Individuals must allow All Pro Heating & Air to do a follow-up story within one year of installation.

• The furnace will be matched up to what the current furnace is (80% or 95+%)

• Employees, friends, or family of All Pro Heating & Air are not eligible.

All Pro Heating and Air Conditioning is not only committed to exceeding all expectations when it comes to offering their full range of HVAC services, they are also committed to supporting the Lincoln community through charitable giving. Learn more about All Pro online at allprolincoln. com or get in touch with the team by calling (402) 405-2959.

Leadership harbor Awards Katie Brandt as november educator of the month

Leadership Harbor has awarded Katie Brandt, the special education department head at Omaha Westview High School, the November Educator of the Month award.

“We are excited to accept nominations for the second year, of outstanding leaders in education. These educators are intentionally giving of themselves to add value to others. From the classroom to the office, the cafeteria to the bus, specialists, and paras to custodians, and everything in between - there are great leaders who deserve some recognition,” shared Kris Peterson of Leadership Harbor.

This is the first time Leadership Harbor has awarded a special education educator, the first time they awarded someone from the Omaha area, and the first time they awarded a high school educator.

“Katie is a leader who recognizes all students and exemplifies making learning fun, providing a safe space for those having a tough time, and recognizing teachers for their hard work,” the nominators noted.

Congratulations Ms. Brandt! The community is better because of the leader you are in and outside of your school.

If you know of an educator who is a leader, someone making a difference in and for our community, nominate them today www. leadershipharbor.com/educator.

At Leadership Harbor, they help people develop the skills to be more relational and influential in their personal, business, and faith lives. To learn more information, visit leadershipharbor.com or contact Kris Peterson at kris@leadershipharbor.com or (402) 580-0947.

tAdA theatre Announces Grammy winner Laurence Juber Concerts for may 12 and 13

To celebrate the theatre’s 15th anniversary, TADA is proud to present a special weekend with Grammy Award-winning guitarist Laurence Juber. The concerts will be held on May 12 and 13. Mr. Juber, or LJ as he is better known, was the guitar player for the group Wings with Paul McCartney, a group in which he won his first Grammy. As a world-renowned guitar virtuoso and entertainer, LJ’s work has been heard on recordings from artists as diverse as Harry Styles, Dan Hicks, and countless others, plus he is featured on the soundtracks to hundreds of TV shows and movies including the Academy Award-winning Dirty Dancing , Good Will Hunting , and Pocahontas . His album LJ Plays The Beatles was voted one of Acoustic Guitar Magazine’s all-time Top Ten albums.

Laurence Juber will present two entirely different concerts during this weekend. Friday night will be LJ Plays The Beatles This includes some amazing hits from The Fab Four heard in a way only Laurence Juber can dazzle and impress an audience. Saturday night’s concert LJ's World on 6 Strings will feature some wonderful songs from his album featuring Harold Arlen tunes as well as some hits from his own repertoire. As a bonus for area musicians, on Saturday afternoon, LJ will present Masterclass: Guitarmania to Beatlemania!

To learn more about The TADA Theatre and their upcoming shows, go to www.tadatheatre.info.

neogen Corporation receives performance Tested Method Certification from AOAC

Neogen Corporation announced that it has received the Performance Tested Method Certification from the AOAC Research Institute for its Reveal ® 3-D for Gluten test.

The AOAC certification (No. 122201) provides independent validation that the Reveal 3-D for Gluten test meets the AOAC standard for the screening of gluten residues in environmental samples. Also included in this certification is acceptance for use within processes governed by the Gluten Free Certification Organization (GFCO), a program of the Gluten Intolerance Group of North America (GIG). GIG is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that empowers the gluten-free community through consumer support, advocacy, and education.

“With this certification, we once again demonstrate the continued reliability of our assays and our commitment to providing trustworthy, dependable solutions for producers around the world,” said Neogen’s President and Chief Executive Officer John Adent. “Our customers can confidently utilize our Reveal 3-D for Gluten tests to help gluten-intolerant and allergic customers minimize exposure to allergens.”

Neogen’s Reveal 3-D for Gluten is a single-step lateral flow immunochromatographic assay that utilizes a simple, rapid methodology to qualitatively detect gluten residues in environmental and food samples as low as five parts per million (ppm).

Neogen Corporation develops and markets comprehensive solutions dedicated to food and animal safety, operating with the intention to “Every day, protect the people and animals we care about.” The company’s Food Safety segment markets dehydrated culture media and diagnostic test kits to detect foodborne bacteria, natural toxins, food allergens, drug residues, plant diseases, and sanitation concerns. For more information, go to neogen.com.

CORE SERVICES LIGHTING DESIGN

Lincoln-Lancaster County health department wiC program receives Award of excellence

The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department’s (LLCHD) Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program has received the 2022 Gold WIC Breastfeeding Award of Excellence.

“Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for babies and helps give them a healthy start,” said Gwendy Meginnis, Dental Health and Nutrition Services manager. “Our team of trained WIC peer counselors are moms, too, who have breastfed their own children. They do a fantastic job answering questions, providing information, and offering needed support to help new mothers breastfeed their babies.”

Presented by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the award recognizes agencies that have exhibited exemplary breastfeeding support and practices.

“Two of my passions are helping others and breastfeeding,” added Alejandra Amaro-Garcia, breastfeeding peer counselor. “I’m excited to be able to do both and share my passion for breastfeeding with others and help them succeed in their breastfeeding goals.”

The Women, Infants, and Children program of The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department empowers families through breastfeeding support, healthy food, nutrition education and referrals to other health and nutrition services – all free of charge to those who qualify. More than 6,000 Lancaster County families are currently enrolled in WIC. Learn more about the benefits of breastfeeding your baby and the WIC program at lincoln.ne.gov/health or by calling (402) 441-6200.

To access the USDA WIC Breastfeeding Support website, visit wicbreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov.

madonna rehabilitation hospital seeks Angel dog program Volunteers

Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital is looking for individuals to volunteer for their Angel Dog Program.

Angel Dogs have been bringing a sense of being at home to patients at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital for more than 15 years. Anxiety, fears, and loneliness have been lessened by many individuals who have received visits or met an Angel Dog in the hall. Numerous patients and their families have been given a refreshing welcome change in routine and something different to look forward to during a day filled with therapies.

Angel Dog Volunteer Training is held several times a year. Conducted by Madonna’s Volunteer Resources staff and Angel Dog volunteers, the sessions are designed to prepare you to feel at ease as you volunteer with your dog. Topics include learning about Madonna, communication techniques for visiting patients, and skills for visiting with your dog. The Angel Dog Program works with Pet Partners Program to register you and your dog as a nationally recognized visiting team.

To become an Angel Dog volunteer, complete and submit an application at Madonna.org/volunteer.

Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals, located at 5401 South St. in Lincoln, offers world-class physical and medical rehabilitation and research, specializing in brain and spinal cord trauma, stroke and neurological conditions for adults and children. Learn more by calling (402) 4133000 or visit www.madonna.org.

Uscellular donates $5K

to people’s City mission

Early in December, UScellular donated $5,000 worth of kitchen equipment, holiday party supplies, and nonperishable food items to People’s City Mission. The kitchen equipment includes two new commercial deep fryers. UScellular also provided nonperishable food items to Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach in Lincoln.

People’s City Mission provides services to the community through its men’s and family shelters. These services include daily meals to shelter tenants. UScellular’s donation will benefit more than 300 people in need of meals.

“People’s City Mission does so much for the community, so we wanted to fulfill their wish list and help them deliver the muchneeded support they provide throughout Lincoln,” said Jordan Darensbourg, UScellular’s retail store manager in Lincoln. “Food has the power to connect people. We believe every family deserves to come together, strengthen ties and make memories this time of year.”

This holiday season, UScellular will provide food banks, pantries and shelters with supplies and has a goal to support more than 135 organizations across the country. UScellular retail stores also will collect donations for local food-focused nonprofits. For more information, visit newsroom.uscellular.com/nourishing-connections.

Since 2009, UScellular has donated more than $22.6 million along with experiences and technology items to nonprofit organizations across the country. For more information about the company’s community involvement, go to newsroom.uscellular.com/community.

new Ziggi’s Coffee opens in Lincoln with free Grand opening drink event on January 7

Ziggi’s Coffee is excited to announce it has opened in Lincoln at 7050 S. 69th St. Their Grand Opening Event will be held on Saturday, January 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The location features both an indoor café and drive-thru and is the first business establishment in the Pine Woods Commercial Development.

Michael and Tammy Harris, both veterans of the U.S. Army, are now proud franchise owners. Michael Harris retired as a Lieutenant Colonel after completing five deployments, earning three bronze stars, and serving his country for 23 years. He and his wife are now ready to embark on a new adventure together.

To celebrate, the community is invited to a Grand Opening event where guests will be treated to a free 16oz drink of choice *. The new location offers a selection of beverages from coffee classics to signature favorites, several food options and a kidZone menu featuring kid-friendly items.

Ziggi’s Coffee is a leading specialty coffee shop and drivethru franchise dedicated to serving the finest roasted coffee, handcrafted drinks, and locally-made breakfast, lunch and snack options. Founded in 2004, the Colorado-based company is on a mission to elevate the standard of service within the coffee shop industry. To learn more about Ziggi’s Coffee, visit ziggiscoffee. com or follow Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

* Limit one free 16oz drink per customer. Other restrictions apply. Discount valid 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at 7050 S. 69th St. on January 7 only.

Your business has we get you people

Like Michaela, who takes the time to get to know you and your unique needs and challenges, then finds the right mix of products and services to solve problems and seize opportunities.

At UBT, people don’t have your money — your money has people.

BUsiness news

metro Gallery to feature "new Year new me" exhibit in January

Metro Gallery in Lincoln has announced that they will be featuring artist Kinzee Hillis and her exhibit “New Year New Me” in January.

The “New Year New Me” exhibit will be on display during the First Friday reception on January 6 from 3 to 7 p.m. and during regular hours throughout January, Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturdays from 2 to 5 p.m.

“My art is whimsical and bold,” said Kinzee. “I use color to bring up emotions. I use abstract designs that reward close looking, giving viewers the opportunity to let their minds wander. It is important to me that people have something to both return to and get lost in.”

Later in the month, watch Hillis create her intricate art during the new “Evening with an Artist” gallery events Wednesdays from 4-6 p.m. on January 11, 18, 25, and February 1.

Established in 2012 in Lincoln’s Art district, Metro Gallery has grown from just a few hundred pieces to well over 4000 pieces at six locations. Their eclectic collection of art is not housed in a stuffy gallery where only the uptight are welcomed. Everyone is invited to Metro Gallery and is free to move things around, examine the pieces, and are free to take pictures. Learn more at MetroGalleryLincoln.com or call (402) 202-7549.

Big B.A.d. Birdhouse project opens submissions for second Year

Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center and the American Institute of Architects-Lincoln are collaborating with community partners for the second year of the Big B.A.D. (Build and Design) Birdhouse Project. Project partners include Lincoln Community Learning Centers, Nebraska Game & Parks Commission, Wild Bird Habitat Store, History Nebraska, and Art Bus Lincoln.

The project has three goals:

1. Increase community outreach around architecture and design.

2. Increase bird habitat around the city of Lincoln by building and installing birdhouses.

3. Provide youth, families, and all audiences the opportunity to share artistic and design skills in an interactive, multigenerational community project.

This year, the project has two parts: A design competition/auction for artists, architects, and designers in all media, and community builds for youth and families.

Design submissions will be accepted through January 17. Community build events for youth and families will take place in January and February.

The design competition is an opportunity for all of Lincoln and surrounding area artists, architects, and designers to showcase their talent publicly. A jury will select winning birdhouse designs, and those designers, or team of designers, will be provided a $250 stipend to create their piece for an auction in March. One-third of auction proceeds will be given back to the designer or designing team and the other two-thirds will fund Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center’s programming for Lincoln Community Learning Centers.

For more information about Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center and the Big B.A.D. Birdhouse Project, visit springcreek.audubon. org/get-involved/birdhouse.

Michaela

2023 health plan.

card, or direct bill. Premiums are due on the first of the month. If not paid month’s end, your policy can be cancelled for non-payment. Automatic payments are a good way to make sure premium payments are made on time.

Create a member portal with your insurance carrier: The easiest and fastest way to set up payment options and to access information about your benefits and claims is to use the online portal that insurance carriers offer to their members. You’ll receive directions about setting it up with your new policy information. Or, give ComPro a call to walk you through this.

Update on Bright Healthcare: Bright Healthcare has withdrawn from the Individual Health Insurance market and is not offering coverage in 2023. Individuals enrolled in a Bright Healthcare plan were “autoassigned” to a policy with a different insurance company (if they had not already switch to a new insurance company for 2023). The purpose of the auto-assignment was to be certain that all policy holders had coverage in 2023. However, you can still switch to a different policy if the auto-assigned one is not a good fit for you. The deadline for selecting a new policy is January 15, 2023. If you want to make a change to your policy, just call ComPro to set up an appointment with one of our agents.

Know which doctors and hospitals are part of your plan: Health plans are part of provider networks that generally follow hospital systems. Many plans offered in Nebraska are part of a network that includes (1) UNMC, the Methodist Hospital system in Omaha, and the Bryan Hospital system in Lincoln; OR (2) Creighton and the CHI Hospital systems in Omaha, Lincoln, and throughout the state. Independent hospitals are also included in many of these networks. It’s important to know which doctors and hospitals are part of your health plan for 2023 as you seek care for your health.

Get insurance to cover you when you travel: You may be out-of-network for your health insurance plan when you travel. Emergency and Telehealth services are always covered when you travel within the US. Urgent Care may also be covered. Be certain to know what you should do to avoid any surprise bills if you need healthcare services while you travel.

Be rewarded for choosing a healthy lifestyle! Check out the Rewards Program that your plan offers for 2023. You can earn credit for setting up your account, staying active, having a wellness checkup and more. For more information or assistance with any of the above items, contact our ComPro Team at (402) 488-5100 and we’ll be happy to help you! For more info on Compro, visit our website at www.comproins.com.

601 Old Cheney Road, Suite A Lincoln, NE 68512 Phone (402) 484-7342 www.regaeng.com

Halie

Halie Hollowell G REENLEAF C OMMERCIAL R EAL ESTATE

Meet Halie Hollowell, the marketing director at Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate.

Tell us a little about your business.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.

How did you get started in the business? - I have always had a strong creative side and interest in visual arts. I started my own company a few years back creating promotional materials for businesses across the United States. I believe that experience, combined with my passion of wanting to help businesses grow really solidified marketing as my career of choice.

Tell us a little about your family. - My mother, Laura, lives in Paris, TX along with my twin brothers, Ely and Ryder. I pride her for her hard work of being a mother of three and facing any challenges that come her way with grace. My father, Mike, lives in Blossom, TX and he owns his own car sale business. I am privileged that he taught me the importance of setting goals and achieving them by him being an entrepreneur. I have an amazing boyfriend of three years, Cal. He is from Lincoln and the reason I have decided to put my roots down here. His mother Anne, father Shannon, and sister Emily have also been huge blessings in my life!

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I have a few! I was an only child until I was 17. I really enjoy painting and 90% of my décor at home is something I have created or painted. I spent 16 hours in a nonconventional airport in Denmark, overnight, because I missed my flight! Buying and making gifts is one of my absolute favorite things to do. Nothing makes me happier than finding, or making, the perfect thing for someone. I participated in many activities growing up –ballet, jazz, tap dancing, beauty pageants, gymnastics, cheerleading, basketball, softball, track and field, and volleyball. When I was younger, I would spend three to five hours a day choreographing dances to show my family.

Who inspires you? - My grandmother, Meme, was such an inspiration to me. She was kind and caring and was always welcoming. She would do anything for anyone. She would give her last dollar to someone who was in need, and every year at Thanksgiving she would invite anyone who didn’t have a place to go. She was and still is my role model. She was diagnosed with cancer in 2015 and gained her wings the same year. She will always hold a special place in my heart.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Both my mother and father have always told me “Do whatever makes you happy, Halie!” I am so thankful they have both been very supportive of me and my decisions in my life. I am fortunate enough to have such incredibly encouraging parents.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Persevering.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - If I could have a super power, it would be the ability to heal.

What is your favorite movie? - Right now, Pulp Fiction! It’s a classic.

What is your favorite TV show? - Manifest, and the anime Death Note

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - halie@greenleafcommercial.com; (402) 467-2525; greenleafcommercial.com.

Bob McNally LINCOLN AIRPORT AUTHORITY

Meet Bob McNally, director of operations for the Lincoln Airport Authority.

Tell us a little about your business. - The Lincoln Airport Authority was established in 1959 to oversee the airport and aviation for the city of Lincoln. Today, the airport authority controls approximately 5,500 acres, operating the Lincoln Airport as well as LNK Enterprise Park, which is one of the largest industrial park developments of its kind in the Midwest.

How did you get started in the business? - Following a summer internship at the Lincoln Airport in 1984, and after graduation from the University of North Dakota (UND) with a degree in airport administration, I joined the Lincoln Airport Authority in a full-time capacity in 1985.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?There are unique and interesting challenges on an almost-daily basis at LNK. Quite frankly, that is what is most enjoyable about working for the Lincoln Airport Authority. An early challenge in my career was the creation and establishment of the Lincoln Airport Police Department. Starting up a full-fledged law enforcement agency from scratch was not something they taught in school.

Tell us a little about your family. - My wife, Jan, and I have been married for 35 years. After nearly 35 years as a teacher, Jan is now working for the State Crime Commission. We have five grown children, Katie, Maggie, Philip, Michael, and Peter.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?Professionally, my decision to pursue a degree in aviation at UND set the course for my entire career.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I am an avid DIY’er. I am always involved in multiple building or repair projects on our acreage. I also enjoy gardening, probably a carryover from being raised on a farm. In addition, Jan and I enjoy playing golf - particularly with our sons.

Who inspires you? - All those who serve in the military, law enforcement, and general public service. The sacrifices these people make to serve our citizens, our communities, and our country are often underappreciated. I enjoy each opportunity I get to work on projects with the dedicated members of these groups.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Dedicated.

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “My Way” by Frank Sinatra.

Which talent would you most like to have? - To be a great orator. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Archeology or historical research.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I have been a supporter the United Way and many other local charities. I also enjoyed being a member of Sertoma for many years.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - Churchill by Celia Sandys and The Man Who Broke Capitalism by David Gelles.

What is your favorite movie? - I enjoy old and classic movies. Two good ones I have recently re-watched are Seven Days in May and 12 Angry Men.

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - We always enjoy a stop at Lazlos.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?(402) 458-2402; rmcnally@lincolnairport.com; www.lincolnairport.com.

Colleen STaR CiTY SiX

Colleen Sorben E MPIRE F ENCE S UPPLY C O

Meet Colleen Sorben, the operations manager at Empire Supply.

Tell us a little about your business. - We are a custom metal fabrication and finishing company. We have the ability to design and fabricate your design and then media blast and paint it all in one stop. We have also done just fabrication or just finishing.

How did you get started in the business? - I got started in this business by accident. One discussion with Matt Warner turned into an opportunity to come work for Empire. With the need to learn and understand the finishing business that was purchased in October of 2021, I took over managing both the fabrication and finishing facilities. I have loved learning about both businesses and how we fit in with our sister companies.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Being a female in male dominated industries provides daily challenges.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have been married to my husband Nathan for 21 years. We are both originally from South Dakota and moved to Waverly in 2006. We have four kids, three girls and one boy. Dylan is senior at Waverly High School, Jackson is a freshman, and Quinn is a 5th grader. Our daughter Regan passed away at 4 days old in 2010.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - The biggest turning point in my life was after my daughter died and learning how to move forward. We continue to remember and celebrate her short life. It made me a stronger person and I have met some incredible people who have also suffered the death of a child.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Read a good book or watch my kids participate in their activities

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - You must be 10% smarter than the item you are working with. My dad would tell me that when I couldn’t figure something out. It would always irritate me but would push me to figure out what I was struggling with.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Tenacious.

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

Which talent would you most like to have? - Multilingualism, or knowing more languages than just English.

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

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?Compassionate Friends. It was the one thing I needed after Regan died. I needed to find others who were in similar situations to know I wasn’t alone in how I was feeling.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - El Potrero.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Abraham Lincoln. He came from nothing, rose to the highest position possible in the government, and dealt with a nation divided and in a civil war. He was able to bring the nation back together while also dealing with personal tragedy.

If

readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?(531) 207-9329; csorben@escfabrication.com.

CuRT

Curt Scharton

A1 AUTOMOTIVE

Meet Curt Scharton, the shop manager at A1 Automotive.

Tell us a little about your business. - A1 Automotive is a family-owned business with a proven record of excellence in automotive repair and exceptional customer service experiences. The A1 Automotive mission statement of "always honest answers" is evidenced by our Google review ratings.

How did you get started in the business? - My family background is strong in mechanical skills and as a teenager I was "tinkering" in the garage on automotive projects. I started my automotive career working on the installation and repair of car audio and electronics systems. This experience motivated me to attend Southeast Community College at Milford with focused studies on Electrical & Electromechanical technologies. Then, I advanced my automotive talent and skills working at a complete auto care location.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The persistent advancement of automotive technology combined with dynamic marketplace expectations.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - My current job experience as the shop manager, that is to say, this opportunity does maximize my talents and skills. I am very involved with every aspect of the automotive business management.

Tell us a little about your family. - My most important role of father to a teenage daughter is the focus of my time and energy when I am away from work. In 2021, my significant other (otherwise known as girlfriend) and I purchased a home together. It has been a busy year of merging lives, two strong-minded adults, a teenager, a cat, and two dogs.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - The moment when I found out that I was going to be a father. After that point, every moment of life is more exciting and simultaneously nerve wracking.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I truly enjoy outdoor activities like sitting by a fire, fishing, camping, gun shooting, grilling, and cooking meals.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - Doubtful most people would know, but I am playful and affectionate with my cat and the dogs.

Who inspires you? - Each person in my life, unknowingly, does give pieces of themselves as inspiration to strive for the best version of myself. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - My grandfather shared good advice about many aspects of life.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Dad.

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Unfortunately, my favorite dining locations are not local, I like steak at Round the Bend Steakhouse and burgers at Stella’s Bar & Grill.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - My grandfather.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?(402) 477-4660; curt@a1autolincoln.com; a1autolincoln.com.

It

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.

STaR CiTY SiX TaYloR

Taylor Kingsley OLE'S BOOT AND SHOE REPAIR

Meet Taylor Kingsley, the cobbler at Ole's Boot and Shoe Repair.

Tell us a little about your business. - We repair lots of different kinds of footwear, from cowboy boots with square toes or round ones to high-end heels that need the little rubber heel tips replaced.

How did you get started in the business? - I've been good friends with the owner's daughter for some time now and have a background in being crafty with my hands, so when I started looking for a different job she suggested I try working at Ole's. I feel very privileged to have been taught how to maintain and extend the life of just about every pair of shoes I own.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have two brothers and a sister that just had a baby. I'm actually a twin but you'd never know it. My sister-in-law, Hattie, runs a cute little candle shop called Heart & Craft Co. and my other sister-in-law is a pastor at First United Methodist Church.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - The most recent was a friend from high-school that took his own life. It really hit close to home. I struggle with my own mental health and asking for help is a lot harder said than done sometimes. Having friends that push me to be a better person and challenge some of the ideas I have goes a long way. I like to remind myself that I've survived every "bad" day so far.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - My grandparents owned Wilson Outfitters and Rocky Ford on the Niobrara River. My grandfather, Loren Wilson, is one of the sole reasons the Niobrara wasn't damned up and used for irrigation. My Grandma still has the letters he typed up on a type writer and sent to senators. Who inspires you? - My grandmother. She just has so much spunk, even in her old age. We love to do puzzles together. We did a puzzle of Jesus and framed it for my brother's wedding gift and the church thought it looked so good they hung it up for a few weeks themselves.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Whistling, I guess. It annoys other people sometimes and can be distracting so I do most of my whistling outside of work. What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?The Arbor Day Foundation. I have a huge love for trees and the conservation of them.

What is your favorite movie? - I love movies! It is so hard for me to narrow it down to one but the few I always gravitate towards when I can't decide what to watch are Ready Player One , Alita: Battle Angel , and Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets . What is your favorite TV show? - Probably Sword Art Online , but since they just took the first three seasons off of Netflix, I've been watching One Punch Man

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Chopsticks Chinese for sure.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - JFK. I really want to know the countries deepest secrets. There just seems to be quite a few mysteries out there and I'm betting he's got a few answers.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 483-6766; Olesbootandshoerepair.com.

MikeMike Vandenberg SOUTHEAST COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Meet Mike Vandenberg, executive chef at Course at the Great Plains Culinary Institute.

Tell us a little about your business. - Course is an upscale student-run restaurant located within the Great Plains Culinary Institute at Southeast Community College. Our culinary students staff the restaurant in the front and back of house. I facilitate menu development, recipe writing, and staff training, and the students execute lunch service under my supervision. We are open to the public Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. during active semesters and closed during academic breaks.

How did you get started in the business? - My first job was a busboy when I was 15, and I got promoted to the kitchen one year later. I have cooked professionally ever since, 20 years now!

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Staff retention is always a challenge in the restaurant industry and the recent pandemic exacerbated that struggle tenfold.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I recently earned a certification through the American Culinary Institute for Certified Executive Chef, but I would say my most important achievement is being able to see cooks/chefs that I have trained grow and develop in this industry and become successful.

Tell us a little about your family. - I am married and have three cats.

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

- Getting hired at SCC opened my eyes to a different side of the foodservice industry. My focus shifted more toward the development of future chefs rather than putting in long hours trying to keep restaurants afloat. I can offer my insight and experience to the future leaders of the industry to help them avoid the struggles I went through.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Sleep in, make an excessively large breakfast with my wife, and chill as much as possible. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I bowled a 300 game last summer and currently carry over a 200 average in a league. Not sure if that’s unique or interesting, but it usually surprises people. Who inspires you? - My coworkers and students continually keep me on my toes and push me to achieve things I didn’t think I could.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Always order more pizza than you think you need.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? -Affable.

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Careless Whisper” by George Michael.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Teleportation seems pretty handy.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - I’ve been an active guitarist for 22 years.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Although this is a relatively impossible question to answer, the flavors, consistency, and convenience of Sultan’s Kite are hard to beat.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Daniel Day-Lewis. Mainly just to see what he orders.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - mvandenberg@southeast.edu; (402) 437-2511; www. southeast.edu/course.

Tyler Mannix didn’t grow up thinking that he would own an ice cream shop someday. Tyler was building a solid career for himself at a local software company when he came up with the idea to open an ice cream shop. The idea wouldn’t go away.

Key to Success – Managing Risk

Tyler started 402 Creamery in 2017. For several years he continued to work his full-time software job to support his family. He made ice cream on the side as his second job at night. Retaining his day job was the first way he reduced risk during the ramp up of the new business. It took a lot of hours to do both!

His first location in Lincoln was downtown on N Street, where he shared space with another food business. Sharing space allowed Tyler to reduce his startup risk and increase customer traffic.

Key to Success – Quality & Creativity

Tyler’s Dream from the beginning was to make ice cream from scratch with local ingredients when possible and to have unique blends of flavors. His philosophy is stated ion the first line on his website: “Small batch, super premium, made from scratch ice cream.”

402 Creamery has developed a very loyal customer base by providing Signature Flavors that are available year round and by introducing Seasonal Flavors. If a new flavor is a big hit, Tyler adds it to his always available Signature Flavor list.

Key to Success – Adaptability

402 Creamery weathered the COVID pandemic by providing carryout pints and rolling out online ordering and delivery via Grub Hub. In addition, they stayed in touch with their customer base using social media. Tyler was very humbled by the support he received from his customers and the community during this period.

“A lot of gift cards were purchased by customers and the community at large. Lincoln has a generous heart and that kept us going,” Tyler said.

Key to Success – Finding a Financial Provider

Like many small businesses, Tyler needed startup capital to purchase equipment, mixers, and freezers. He turned to Community Development Resources (CDR) in Lincoln for an SBA Microloan. CDR was also able to assist Tyler with early start- up advice and counseling. CDR loan officer Jeff Breunig identified a few characteristics about Tyler and his business plan that helped get the loan approved.

“Tyler had a good idea and a well-prepared written business plan. The plan included back up cash flow to reduce risk to the lender. His passion and persistence were very evident when he applied.”

Tyler had this to say about the assistance he received from CDR, “I had a dream. I realized quickly, I needed to surround myself with good advisors to help me be successful. That includes a good accountant, a good lawyer, and a good banker. CDR believed in me and gave me the necessary capital to get this dream off the ground.”

Community Development Resources is a nonprofit 501c (3) organization whose mission is to provide capital, technical assistance, and training opportunities for small business and housing in the state of Nebraska. Community Development Resources lends to start-up and existing businesses that have a viable business plan to create or maintain business. CDR is located at 912 N 70th St. in the Meadowlane Shopping Center. Visit cdr-nebraska.org or call (402) 436-2387 for more information.

YfC Lincoln Area welcomes Allison rusler as Juvenile Justice ministry director

Youth for Christ Lincoln Area (YFC Lincoln Area) is excited to welcome Juvenile Justice Ministry (JJM) Director Allison Rusler to their team. Allison joins the JJM team after previously serving the community as a probation officer. Her heart and passion for extremely at-risk teens is apparent when you meet her. This addition to the JJM team will help Youth for Christ to expand and serve kids as they come out of jail, and expand services to juveniles who are in the two new facilities, Whitehall and YRTC, in Lincoln.

Youth for Christ Lincoln Area is a non-denominational, nonprofit organization serving youth in the Lincoln community and surrounding areas. They engage youth through three ministries: Campus Life to teens in high schools and middle schools, Juvenile Justice to jailed teens, and Parent Life to pregnant teens. Through regular programming and special events, YFC Lincoln Area works with over 2,400 local youth with the goal of engaging them in a healthy relationship with mentors, friends, and God. For more information, contact Matt Schulte at info@yfclincoln.org or (402) 420-7475, or go to yfclincoln.org.

Amy pappas Joins habitat for humanity of Lincoln as director of operations

Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln is excited to welcome Amy Pappas as the new director of operations. She joined the team in November of this year. Most recently, she served as the associate director at the People’s City Mission. She has a long history of working for nonprofits in the Lincoln community and is looking forward to using her multitude of talents to help families in Lincoln find safe, affordable housing.

Pappas recently received the Human Services Individual Award from the Lincoln Homeless Coalition and was a top finalist for the Excellence in Nonprofit Award for the 2022 Inspire: Celebrating Women Awards. Habitat Lincoln has partnered with more than 189 local families, serving more than 840 men, women, and children through the construction of new single-family homes, as well as simple and critical repair projects. They look forward to continuing the mission to bring people together to build homes, communities, and hope. To learn more, contact Director of Development Deanna Walz at (402) 310-7884 / dwalz@lincolnhabitat.org or visit lincolnhabitat.org.

Commons as Campus Administrator

As nonprofit Tabitha gears up to open Tabitha at Prairie Commons, Campus Administrator Tonya Van Pelt is leading the way. Grand Island’s latest community, catering to older adults, will be opening in phases. Residents moved into apartments for those 55+ during the week of December 12. Other areas of the campus focused on assisted living/memory care and long-term/skilled nursing are slated to follow in January 2023.

As campus administrator, Van Pelt will oversee all aspects of daily operations, ensuring the campus runs smoothly and reflects Tabitha’s Core Values.

Van Pelt brings 25 years of nursing experience and extensive knowledge in supporting older adults. Most recently, she has served first as director of nursing, and then was promoted to executive director/RN at a local retirement community.

“I am honored to expand Tabitha’s exceptional quality services to the Grand Island area,” said Van Pelt. “As Nebraska’s leading senior care provider, Tabitha has already made their mark here by providing award-winning home health and hospice care services to the area for the past 25+ years. The Tabitha at Prairie Commons Team will meet those high standards as well. Grand Island is my home and I am grateful to be a part of something impactful that will support families in underserved rural areas of the state.”

As the state’s quality award-winning Senior Care expert, nonprofit Tabitha empowers people to live joyfully, age gratefully. Learn more at Tabitha.org.

Clearwater Counseling, pC promotes taylar mason to full-time therapist

Clearwater Counseling, PC is excited to announce the promotion of Taylar Mason. Taylar is a therapist that was previously working part-time at Clearwater, and now will be working full-time.

Taylar E Mason is a Provisionally Licensed Mental Health Practitioner/Certified Masters Social Worker. She has a passion to work alongside her clients and meet them where they are at in treatment. Taylar has clinical experience working with children and adolescents with trauma, and their families.

She also has experience working with individuals of all ages diagnosed with behavioral, chronic mental health and substance abuse disorders. She has been involved in research at the Center for Children and Families at Florida Internal University in Miami, FL, where she worked primarily with adolescents diagnosed with Neurodevelopment Disorders, and Disruptive, Impulse-Control, and Conduct Disorders.

Clearwater Counseling, PC is a private practice offering mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults in the Grand Island and Omaha areas. They utilize various evidence-based therapeutic techniques and theoretical approaches to serve clients in the following specialties: addictions, anger management, anxiety, cooccurring disorders, depression, divorce/blended family issues, grief and loss, life adjustments/stress management, major mental illness, parenting and attachment trauma, relationship/codependency, selfesteem, trauma and PTSD, and work/life balance. To schedule an appointment with Clearwater Counseling, or for more information about mental health services, please call (308) 210-8487 or email info@ clearwatercounselingne.org. Learn more at clearwatercounselingpc.org.

sp Group, p.C. welcomes Val Bartunek to their team

SP Group is excited to announce the addition of Val Bartunek to their team. Val, came to Lincoln by way of Liberty, MO, landing at Lincoln Southeast High School her junior year. She attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln studying Early Childhood Education to pursue her dream of teaching pre-kindergartners. After teaching for 21 years, she took a professional leap. While continuing to fulfill her passion for working and connecting with people, she entered the client relations field specializing in client and partner on-boarding processes.

Outside of the office, Val spends her time with family and her partner, Scott, where they are often found attending their kids’ numerous sporting events and loving on their two dogs. Val professes to be the biggest fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and is not afraid to show it or her avid enthusiasm for the Boston Celtics and the New York Yankees.

Val brings to the firm extensive experience in client services and appreciates the importance of building client relationships for the long-term.

SP Group, P.C. serves growth-oriented companies and talented individuals in the Midwest, with the goal of making sure that their clients have the support they need to feel confident about their financial future. For complete bios on the SP Group team, visit spgrouppc.com/meettheteam, or follow SP Group on Facebook (@SPGroup,P.C.) and Twitter (@SPGroupPC) or call (402) 420-7758 to learn more.

Kat Kramer Joins true north technologies as project

manager

True North Technologies, a digital marketing firm founded by Renee Sobotka, gladly welcomed Kat Kramer to their team in November.

Kat earned her bachelor’s degree in advertising and public relations from the University of Nebraska-Kearney in 2022. She became interested in the world of marketing and strategic advertising during her early college years, and she has been building her portfolio ever since.

While in school, Kat gained hands-on experience with advertising and digital marketing through internships, her sorority, and work with UNK’s student newspaper, The Antelope. However, Kat is eager to learn more about this constantly changing industry. She is a forward thinker and found success in the marketing field due to her ability to think outside the box. Kat strongly believes the key to a successful marketing strategy is the ability to adapt to change.

Kat has a bright personality and loves to make connections with anyone she meets. In her free time, she enjoys horseback riding, weightlifting, and hanging out with her two cats, Corona and Titan.

True North Technologies understands the importance of digital marketing. They provide affordable marketing services such as custom website and mobile app development, branding, SEO, and digital advertising. Visit www.go-tnt.com or call (402) 420-5101 to learn more about them today.

Caring friends in home Care welcomes Laura hunt in human resources

Caring Friends In Home Care is elated to welcome Laura Hunt to their human resources team. Laura joined Caring Friends in November of this year. She enjoys being in a positive environment surrounded by people that support each other. Previously, Laura has worked in the home health care and medical fields for the last 40 years.

Laura was born and raised in Lincoln. She has two children, Makensie and Taylor. Taylor is married to Autumn, and together they have one child. Laura has a passion for riding long distance on her motorcycle. She takes several trips every year. She also loves to camp, and sometimes tries her hand at fishing, although she claims she is not very good at it.

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.

west Gate Bank promotes taylor price, Kirby reardon, and shane reardon

The West Gate Bank ® Board of Directors has elected Taylor Price, Kirby Reardon, and Shane Reardon to vice president, commercial lending.

Taylor Price began working for West Gate Bank in May of 2013 as a credit analyst intern and moved to a full time credit analyst in September of 2013. He was promoted to commercial loan officer in August of 2016 and to assistant vice president in July of 2019. Taylor’s focus is on commercial real estate lending and residential investment property financing.

Kirby Reardon joined West Gate Bank in 2011 as a teller. In 2013, Reardon transitioned into a credit analyst role in the Commercial Lending Department. In December of 2015, he was advanced to senior loan analyst/manager. In September of 2016, he was promoted again to Loan Officer for the Commercial Lending department. Kirby’s focus is on commercial real estate lending and business loans. Reardon also serves as the bank’s CRA Officer.

Shane Reardon joined West Gate Bank in January, 2019 as a loan analyst and loan officer. Shane’s focus is on commercial and industrial lending, owner-occupied commercial real estate, and residential investment property financing.

West Gate Bank ® is a family-owned community bank with 11 locations in Lincoln and Omaha. The newest West Gate Bank branch is now open at 177th and W Maple Rd. in Omaha. Visit westgate.bank for more information.

taylor price

shane reardon

Kirby reardon

Legacy retirement Communities Awards Lisa martin the 2022 mission & Values Award

Legacy Retirement Communities is proud to recognize Lisa Martin, a Life Enrichment team member at the Legacy Terrace, with the 2022 Mission & Values Award. Each year, residents, staff members, and friends of Legacy communities nominate the person they believe lives out the company’s mission and values by enriching the lives of their residents. A panel of judges reads through the nominations and the award is presented at the annual Employee Appreciation Event.

Legacy’s Employee Appreciation Event was on November 3. Greg Joyce, CEO of Legacy Retirement Communities, presented Lisa with the 2022 Mission & Values Award and surprised her with a video of the residents who nominated her for it.

Lisa Martin has been nominated for the award several times in the past. This year, she was nominated by two residents of the Legacy Terrace who noted her compassion, positive attitude, and going “above and beyond” to help the residents she works with daily.

Legacy Retirement Communities is a trio of state-of-the-art communities that incorporate elegance, superior quality of care, affordability, and thriving social activity all under one roof. They are a family-owned and operated business and have been voted Best of Lincoln 25 years in a row. Legacy continues to provide Lincoln with award-winning elegance, superior care, and countless reasons to live an enriched life. For more information, visit www.LegacyRetirement.com.

John henry’s Adds safety Coordinator to the team

John Henry’s is pleased to announce that they have hired a safety coordinator. This is a brand new position to the company, and was added at the end of November. They are excited to be able to provide the best and safest experience for their employees, which in turn will provide the best service for their customers.

The safety coordinator will identify and evaluate safety and environmental exposures and potential safety risks. This position will oversee field safety in HVAC and Plumbing projects as well as develop and deliver safety knowledge to staff through training, consultations, webinars, long distance learning, etc. The safety coordinator is to support and collaborate with the HR Manger in creating a zero-accident safety culture. This position will produce, analyze, and communicate statistical analyses, conduct trainings, maintain records, and assist with the return-towork injury prevention program. This position will also include duties such as oversight of DOT and OSHA compliance, Worker’s Compensation, injury reporting, and drug/alcohol screening.

Established in 1996, John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning is a full-service plumbing, heating, air conditioning, air quality, duct cleaning, and water treatment business. Their motto is “Our Family Serving Yours” and this goes much deeper than simple HVAC or plumbing services. 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.

fnBo promotes nathan mcKown to managing director of Commercial Banking

First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) has announced that it has promoted Nathan McKown to managing director of commercial banking.

“I am pleased to announce this welldeserved promotion,” said Regional Vice President of Commercial Banking Kevin Thompson. “Nathan continues to be a great asset to FNBO and to our customers and clients who are working toward achieving their financial goals.”

McKown will lead a team of relationship managers in providing business customers with advice and value. He will be responsible for overseeing the teams working with businesses in Lincoln, Beatrice, and the Omaha metro area. McKown has been in Corporate Banking since 2006. He joined FNBO in May of 2014 as a relationship manager in the Commercial Banking group for the Lincoln market. He later moved to Specialty Banking in 2017.

McKown holds a Bachelor of Science in Math and Economics from Doane College and an MBA from the University of NebraskaLincoln. He is a member of RMA.

First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) is a subsidiary of First National of Nebraska. First National of Nebraska and its affiliates have nearly $30 billion in assets and 5,000 employee associates. Primary banking offices are located in Nebraska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota, Texas and Wyoming. Learn more at fnbo.com and connect with them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

ryan wieber named as director of Lincoln City Libraries

The Foundation for Lincoln City Libraries recently welcomed Ryan Wieber to Lincoln to serve as the new director of Lincoln City Libraries. He arrived from his home state of Michigan, where he was the director of the Kalamazoo Public Library system. In Kalamazoo, he oversaw the central library and four branches.

He began his career with a public history degree from Western Michigan University and finished his master’s degree in library science from Detroit’s Wayne State University. Mr. Wieber loves his profession and says the best parts of his job are serving the community and continually working hard to ensure residents recognize the importance and value that public libraries provide toward the success of a community.

“Ryan has the skills, experience, and drive needed to grow, strengthen, and innovate our already strong library system. He is a dynamic leader with a proven record of strong management, collaboration, and innovation. Ryan and his wife, Molly, are the parents of three grown children and look forward to making Lincoln their home,” said Library Board President and local businessman Dan Sloan.

The Foundation for Lincoln City Libraries was formed in 1954 to provide annual support for the programs and services provided to our residents through Lincoln City Libraries. This support is only successful because of volunteer involvement and public support through the Foundation. For more information to donate or volunteer, please visit foundationforlcl.org, email foundationforlcl@gmail.com, or call (402) 441-0164.

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.

farris engineering promotes Jared mcmullen to Bim/CAd manager

Jared McMullen was recently promoted to building information modeling (BIM) and computer-aided design (CAD) manager at Farris Engineering, a leader in quality engineering services. Jared joined Farris Engineering in 2000 at their Colorado Springs, CO office. As a mechanical designer, his work has focused on designing HVAC and piping systems for military, educational, and commercial facilities.

“We are excited to have Jared transition to the role of BIM/CAD manager,” said Farris President and CEO Michael Wallace. “He brings a thorough background of design experience and is eager to provide training and project support to all five of our locations.”

As BIM/CAD manager, Jared will provide project support through design software training, design software management, BIM content creation, and assist with project set-up. He has an associate degree in architectural drafting and architectural CAD/CADD from IntelliTec College in Colorado Springs and is a member of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

In his free time, you can find him playing around with his three dogs, spending time with family, and maybe playing a video game or two. 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. They look forward to tackling your projects head-on with this talented team of employee-owners as they ‘Bring Your Buildings to Life’. To learn more, visit www.farris-usa.com.

AmanaCare in-home Assistance hires rhonda saunders as marketer

AmanaCare In-Home Assistance welcomes Rhonda Saunders as their new marketer. After a break to take care of family members Rhonda has returned part-time to the healthcare industry. She previously worked for a hospice company in Lincoln for eight years and now brings that knowledge and experience to AmanaCare.

Rhonda has enjoyed giving back to the Lincoln community through the years by volunteering with the Lincoln Updowntowners, co-chairing the Jazz in June city festival, serving on the Lincoln Haymarket board and their annual Chocolate Lover’s Fantasy committee. In addition, Rhonda served on the Alzheimer’s Association board and assisted with their community fundraising events.

Rhonda enjoys spending time with her family, including her husband, three adult children and their significant others, two teen step-children, and one granddaughter. Rhonda loves to travel and planning trips. Maui is her top destination and has been going there for over 25 years. She also enjoys being outdoors, cooking, and entertaining family and friends. Most importantly her biggest passion is her love of Jesus and living a life that is pleasing to God.

Amana is Hebrew; it means truth, faithfulness, guardian, devotion and integrity. AmanaCare is a faith based company that is family-owned and operated providing faithful, personalized non-medical care that people can trust. If you or a loved one needs assistance to manage tasks of independent living, contact AmanaCare to find out how they can help at (402) 440-5878. For more information, go to amana-care.com.

southeast Community College milford student noah russell Awarded at state Capitol

Southeast Community College (SCC) Milford Manufacturing Engineering Technology student Noah Russell was recently honored for winning a bronze medal in Technical Drafting at SkillsUSA last summer. Russell was presented with an award on November 21 at the Commissioner’s Recognition for Student Excellence in Career & Technical Education at the state capitol in Lincoln.

“Getting honored felt really good and special that I was recognized for getting third at Nationals for SkillsUSA,” Noah said. “After SCC I am most likely going to go into industry as a process engineer or go into setting up automation in plants.”

Last June, Russell won the bronze medal in the Technical Drafting category at the National Leadership & Skills Conference in Atlanta, GA. He qualified for it by placing first in the same category at the Nebraska SkillsUSA conference last April in Grand Island. The Nebraska City native is a second-year student and will graduate next spring from SCC.

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. Find more information about Southeast Community College at www.southeast.edu.

UniCoGroupAnnounces12 new shareholders

UNICO Group’s Board of Directors is pleased to announce its newest 12 shareholders. Becoming a shareholder at UNICO is a high honor that is earned by demonstrating a strong commitment to UNICO in tenure, performance, and by serving others in the community. UNICO continues to expand its shareholder base as a critical component propelling the company forward. UNICO is very proud of the new shareholders and their contributions to UNICO’s growth. The new shareholders are:

• Alysha Border, shared services team lead

• Liz Chramosta, director of strategic initiatives

• Marci Elam, senior account manager

• Duana Freeman, work comp claims advocate

• Lori Gerdts, director of human resources

• Matt Gilbert, vice president, risk advisor

• Jay Lechner, vice president, benefits advisor

• Cortney Moderacki, senior account manager

• Mike Reed, vice president, risk advisor

• Cynthia Reinsch, senior account manager

• Mallory Seger, senior account executive

• Jennifer Wiederspan, senior account manager

UNICO Group is a client-focused insurance broker headquartered in Nebraska. They offer a consultative and relational approach to their customized solutions for clients all around the nation. For more information, call (402) 434-7200 or visit unicogroup.com.

hopespoke shares impact of mental health Care on Youth and families

HopeSpoke’s latest Annual Report is now available online! To download your copy, please visit www. hopespoke.org and click on the “About Us” tab.

In the past year, more than 1,000 individuals were able to access an array of mental health services at HopeSpoke. Programs include outpatient therapy for all ages, therapists based within Lincoln Public Schools, an Extended Day Treatment after-school program for youths ages 6-12, a Therapeutic Group Home for ages 13-18, and more.

“Mental health issues and trauma are hard for anyone to overcome,” says Executive Director Katie McLeese Stephenson, MSW. “HopeSpoke plays an invaluable role in inspiring children and adults to build the skills they need to move forward and be successful.”

Founded in 1949 to serve children in need of mental health treatment, HopeSpoke has expanded to serve individuals across the lifespan, from children and teens to families and adults. Thanks to community support, no one is turned away due to inability to pay for care. HopeSpoke’s mission is to inspire healthy futures for children and their families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health services. For more information about HopeSpoke’s services, visit www. hopespoke.org. If you would like to support HopeSpoke’s mission, please contact Becki Roberts, development director, at broberts@ hopespoke.org or (402) 475-7666.

City impact Announces Literacy program for 2023, seeks sponsors and donations

City Impact (CI) in Lincoln is excited to announce their 2023 literacy program and Bible Club. With their services, they teach Lincoln students a curriculum that nurtures and inspires.

The CI Bible Club teaches K-5th graders about the love of God through mentorship and a fun, interactive, game-based curriculum.

The CI Reading Program is designed to help struggling readers grow their literacy skills and become curious lifelong learners. The program includes one-on-one reading coaches, individualized reading curriculum, collaborative learning experiences, field trips, a healthy space to develop and practice reading skills, and more. Any elementary school student is welcome to enroll online December 19 through January 13 at www.cityimpact.org. The program begins January 24 and meets Tuesdays throughout the school year from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at City Impact.

City Impact is seeking sponsors and donations to support the faith and reading programs. Those interested in supporting these programs can call (402) 477-8080.

City Impact in Lincoln is a faith-centered nonprofit that empowers under-resourced communities through holistic youth, family, and neighborhood development. They aspire to be the best in the world at recognizing and encouraging the unique strengths of those they serve so that their leadership makes a lasting positive impact within the Lincoln community. For more information on how to invest in the mission of City Impact or volunteer opportunities, visit www.cityimpact.org.

BiA-ne emphasizes the need for resource facilitation in the workplace

The Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska (BIA-NE) is committed to creating better futures for all Nebraskans through brain injury prevention, education, advocacy, and support. According to data gathered for the Nebraska Brain Injury Registry, an average of nearly 14,000 people are hospitalized by a traumatic brain injury each year. Sadly, these numbers don’t account for injuries resulting from strokes, aneurysms, infections, or undiagnosed concussions. With these numbers, it is increasingly probable that many people in the workforce have experienced a brain injury. From a construction accident to simply banging one’s head against a filing cabinet, a brain injury can happen to anyone, anytime, anywhere.

The effects of a brain injury are not as obvious as some may think and affect employees’ job performance in ways like problems focusing, memory issues, and sensitivity to light, sound, and other environmental conditions. However, with proper accommodations, these individuals can thrive just as well as an employee without a brain injury.

The Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska’s resource facilitation team can assist businesses and organizations in supporting their employees as they adjust to changes resulting from brain injury. This support can range from providing recommendations for workplace accommodations to working with employees to develop individualized coping strategies or offering education and training to reduce stigma about brain injury.

To learn more about the Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska and to connect with a resource facilitator, email info@biane.org or call (402) 890-0606. You can find more information at biane.org.

Bright Lights seeks sponsors for 2023 summer Camp programs

Bright Lights is currently seeking sponsors for their upcoming summer camp programs. For more than 35 summers, Bright Lights has been providing fun plus learning in amazing summer camps for elementary and middle school students.

For summer 2023, camps take place June 5-9; June 12-16; June 19-23; June 26-30; and July 10-14. Camp topics include science, technology, math, art, literature, and music with most having a STEAM connection. Bright Lights provides before care and lunch care at some camp locations. Need-based scholarships are available. There is also an international experience for middle school students and a Camp Assistant program for high schoolers.

Sponsors from local businesses like yours have helped keep the program vibrant through many generations of campers (some are now the parents themselves and bringing their young campers!). You can pick a specific camp you’d like to sponsor or just choose a sponsorship level to help cover the cost of materials, teacher salaries and rental space—all while giving students the best camp experience possible.

To sponsor a summer 2023 camp, visit brightlights.org/support, or contact Megan Ockander, development specialist, at mockander@brightlights. org and she can create a custom sponsor package to fit your budget.

Serving K-8th grade students, Bright Lights provides energized, engaging, and fun summer learning opportunities. Their week-long half-day and full-day camps allow students to learn and create, master new skills, and build new relationships. Find out more about these opportunities at BrightLights.org.

Lincoln Community foundation Grants $1.6M to Nonprofit Organizations

Thanks to the foresight of generous donors, Lincoln Community Foundation made grants in November of $1.6 million for 181 nonprofit organizations, 101 of which were local. These grants came from designated funds created by donors to support their favorite nonprofits and houses of worship. These endowed funds provide annual financial support to the organizations specified by the donors, helping the community and the nonprofits grow and thrive forever.

The Lincoln Community Foundation, established in 1955, strives to continually enrich the Lincoln community by promoting and achieving perpetual philanthropic support. They support nonprofit organizations that improve the city’s quality of life, and foster community collaboration to address challenges and opportunities. The Foundation serves as a faithful steward for many types of philanthropic gifts and helps donors create lasting legacies of giving.

They have distributed more than $185 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of thousands of residents. To learn more, visit www.lcf.org.

fresh start’s project funway raises $30K for women in need

Fresh Start held their signature fundraising event, Project Funway, on November 4 at The Cornhusker Marriott. The event raised $30,000 for this lifeline program, which has served the Lincoln community for 31 years. Donations from the event will help provide a safe, secure, and supportive home for women experiencing homelessness.

The event would not have been possible without Dr. Sandra Starkey and the talented students from the Department of Textiles, Merchandising, and Fashion Design (TMFD) in the College of Education and Human Sciences. TMFD has been integral to the success of the event since its beginning in 2010. Community designers and students created 34 oneof-a-kind designs using repurposed materials from local thrift shops. Judges Katie Francisco, Brooke Mullen, and Natalie Pieper had the unenviable task of selecting the winners this year.

The judge's choice winners were:

• Best of Show: Inas Hskan, modeled by Lily Park

• Most Innovative: Sophia Notto, modeled by Arielle Knobbe

• Best Integrity of Original Materials: ReyAnna Moore, modeled by Brody Drayer

• Honorable Mention: Joelle Tangen, modeled by Joelle Tangen

The popular choice winners were:

• 1st: Geri True, modeled by Geri True

• 2nd: Sophia Notto, modeled by Olivia Fiore

• 3rd: Kelly Thompson, modeled by Xanthe Steffen

The event guests appreciated a VIP pre-party, shopping at The Daisy pop-up boutique, and silent and live auctions.

Fresh Start especially wants to thank Kohl’s and Kappa Alpha Theta volunteers for helping set-up and for their assistance with the event tasks. Learn more about Fresh Start by visiting their website at www. FreshStartHome.org or by contacting Monica Zinke at (402) 475-7777 / monicaz@freshstarthome.org.

rise stronger to host Victorious women Conference

Rise Stronger is so excited to be hosting yet another incredible women’s event. The Victorious Women’s conference on Saturday, February 11 at Elevate Church, located at 8251 Pioneer’s Blvd. The event will last from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a live worship band from 12:20 p.m. to 1:15 p.m.

Join Rise for their lineup of multiple speakers who are faith-driven leaders by immersing yourself in the Word and presence of God. The realities of the world will be addressed and ultimately, they will cover them with the Word. Come and be refreshed, revived, and empowered to live victoriously and bring a fresh touch from Heaven in your home, job, city, state, and nation!

Rise Stronger is a place where people can be empowered in body, mind, and spirit to win the mental, physical, and spiritual battles that we face on earth, in order to boldly seek God with grace. The community values the strength is takes to persevere with personal growth and faith in order to stand tall with purpose. To register by free will donation for the event and to learn more about Rise Stronger, please visit www.risestrongergroup.com or contact Stephanie Johnson at info@risestrongergroup.com.

teammates Gains new mentors after Lincoln Business expo

The Lincoln Business Expo again provided an opportunity for Lincoln TeamMates to form partnerships and connections with local businesses. Over 40 individuals expressed an interest in learning how to become a TeamMates mentor.

Showing up for new mentor training throughout the fall were associates from the following organizations to name a few: Ameritas, Educare, Enterprise Car Rental, Family Values Magazine, Hobbytown, Hudl, Humanex, KOLN 10/11, NelNet, Troske Financial Group, Union Bank, and recruits from 93.7, The Ticket.

Research published in 2021 finds that companies that make time for their employees to volunteer have higher retention, increased productivity, and higher morale. They feel more satisfied with their work, and manage stress and anxiety better – all at levels higher than employee-sponsored “happy hour”. In fact, many TeamMates mentors say that mentoring is the highlight of their week and that they leave feeling energized and more hopeful.

TeamMates Mentoring makes a meaningful impact in the local community and beyond by inspiring youth to reach their full potential through mentoring. They are hoping to recruit 300 additional volunteer mentors this school year for Lincoln youth. To find out how you can initiate a partnership with Lincoln TeamMates at your workplace, contact their office at (402) 436-1990 or visit lincolnteammates.org.

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people’s City mission Announces new drug relapse program

People’s City Mission (PCM) is very excited to announce the start of a One Year Drug Relapse Program, set to launch at the beginning of 2023. The goal of the program is to help up to ten men and five women at a time. The program will consist of extensive addiction recovery counseling, training, class work, and a work program. PCM will provide this service at no cost to participants, however 20 hours a week of work will be required to offset costs of room and board in PCM’s Curtis Center.

Anyone interested in participating in this program should contact Curtis Center Director Earl Richardson at (402) 475-1303, ext. 132, or ERichardson@pcmlincoln.org.

The Curtis Center offers transitional housing for individuals seeking a new start on life. They offer evidenced-based, cognitive behavioral programming to give Curtis Center residents tools and support for positive life changes and self-sufficiency.

People’s City Mission was started in 1907 by local churches, offering food and shelter for transient and impoverished men, women, and children. Today, the People’s City Mission is Lincoln’s primary homeless shelter housing 350 people on an average day. They greatly appreciate your continued support of Lincoln’s most vulnerable. For more information, please call (402) 475-1303 or visit pcmlincoln.org.

matt talbot Kitchen & outreach seeks donations for souper Bowl of Caring

Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is seeking donations for the Souper Bowl of Caring event. Souper Bowl of Caring is an annual event that encourages people to give locally and make a collective impact on hunger.

On Sunday, February 12, people will come together to celebrate the biggest football game of the year with food and fun. What if everyone watching the BIG GAME donated just one dollar or one can of food to help their neighbors in need? That would provide millions of meals from just one event! In the weeks leading up to the Super Bowl, individuals and groups throughout the nation will be collecting donations to end hunger relief in their communities.

Last year thousands of individuals and groups from communities in all fifty states participated, including Lincoln! During last year’s event, many local schools, churches, businesses, and passionate individuals collected donations for Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach.

Participation is easy. All you need to do is register your team at www.mtko.org/events and begin collecting donations. This year, Matt Talbot requests non-perishable food items, including macaroni and cheese, canned meats, pasta and pasta sauce, canned fruits and vegetables, cereal, canned beans, soup, and boxed meals. Creating a donation contest at your business will make it even more fun!

Please reach out to Jenn Boettcher with any questions at jenn. boettcher@mtko.org or (402) 817-0615.

For the past 30 years and counting, 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.

epilepsy foundation releases seizure recognition Virtual training program

The Epilepsy Foundation is now offering a Seizure Recognition and First Aid Training program for those interested in learning what to look for and how to help someone having a seizure. One in ten people will have a seizure in their lifetime. This is a great opportunity for teams, organizations, school personnel, and any group that would like to learn.

The Seizure Recognition and First Aid Training program contains information and activities on seizures, epilepsy and seizure first aid. The first aid procedures in the guide reflect the standard of knowledge and current best practices. This information is presented in a format suited for direct training of the public.

Training Purpose:

The purpose of this program is to formally educate the public on the Epilepsy Foundation’s approved procedures for recognizing seizures and responding to someone having a seizure. This course aims to increase the knowledge, skill, and confidence in applying seizure first aid. 1. Why Is Seizure First Aid Important?

Contact Epilepsy Foundation Nebraska to schedule a free virtual training session with an instructor or access an On Demand training at learn.epilepsy.com.

The Epilepsy Foundation is a national voluntary health agency dedicated solely to the welfare of the nearly 3.4 million people living with epilepsy in the U.S. and their families. The Foundation works to ensure that people with seizures are able to participate in all life experiences and to promote research for a cure. To contact Epilepsy Foundation Nebraska, email Nebraska@efa. org. For more information, go to epilepsy.com.

Junior League of Lincoln finishes 2022 programs with record numbers

In 2022, The Junior League of Lincoln (JLL) served a record number of kids and families in Lincoln through the JLL Diaper Bank, ClothesLine, and HomeStart projects, while also training and developing the potential of its members.

Since its inception in 2020, the JLL Diaper Bank has distributed well over 300,000 diapers to families. This year Diaper Bank will partner with Lincoln Littles to help keep kids in care and parents at work. The ClothesLine program helps to provide free clothing to youth in LPS middle and high schools. League members collect clothing and facilitate distribution to participating schools. JLL served a total of 11 schools in Lincoln throughout 2022.

The Junior League of Lincoln provides home goods for young adults transitioning out of foster care to independent living. League members create kits (kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and cleaning) that are dropped off at the HUB for youth as they are needed. The JLL’s commitment to the HomeStart project is an integral part of connecting young adults to the items that make their first places to live more than just an apartment, but truly home. Last year, JLL provided over 60 complete kits to The HUB. The Junior League of Lincoln is committed to using their resources to provide for the growing and ever-changing needs of the community. To contact JLL, email juniorleagueoflincoln@gmail.com.

Community Action sends thanks for holiday Giving

Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties is thanking the community for its enthusiastic response to its holiday toy drive and fundraisers. In partnership with 104.1 The Blaze, Community Action held the annual Kamp Out for Kids event in December, which raised thousands of dollars and dozens of toys. Community Action thanks The Blaze, Jet Splash, Stop N Shop, and Spikes Beach Bar and Grille for their support during this event each year.

Every December, Community Action collects toys to distribute to its participants, and this year saw an outpouring of support. Thanks to donations from businesses, schools, churches, and other groups and individuals, Community Action was able to give out hundreds of toys to families this holiday season. Community Action sends its gratitude to all who contributed to make this special opportunity possible.

Community Action’s mission is to empower people living in poverty to reach economic stability. Its programs and services address the causes and conditions of poverty in four impact areas: early childhood education, homelessness prevention, financial and family well-being, and hunger relief and healthy food access. To learn more, visit www. communityactionatwork.org.

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Jdrf finalizes 2023 typeonenation summit for march 4

Save the Date for the 2023 JDRF TypeOneNation Summit!

Join JDRF on Saturday, March 4 at the Scott Conference Center in Omaha from 9 a.m. to noon for this FREE event. The Summit provides an opportunity for education and connection for the type 1 diabetes (T1D) community. Hear from local experts and community members, meet others to exchange ideas and visit with diabetes industry partners sharing their latest products and technology.

The event is offered at no cost to attendees, yet registration is required. Visit jdrf.org/nebraskaiowa for full event details. Online Registration opens mid-January!

If you can’t make it in person, JDRF’s TypeOneNation program has a virtual library of resources which includes recorded sessions from experts across the country covering important topics that affect those living with or caring for someone with T1D. Resources and recordings are available in English and Spanish at jdrf.org/typeonenation.

JDRF’s mission is to improve lives today and tomorrow by accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent, and treat T1D and its complications. For more information, please visit jdrf.org/nebraskaiowa.

CBmC Lincoln Announces opportunities and Activities for 2023

Christian Business Men’s Connection (CBMC) in Lincoln continues to expand the number of groups and activities for personal, professional, and spiritual growth for men in the workplace.

Peer Advisory Groups, one of their core offerings, continues to be a major focus and openings are available for new members.

These include Trusted Advisor Forums (TAF), an Executive Roundtable, and Young Professionals (YP) groups. TAF’s and the Executive Roundtable consist of 8 to 12 men who are business owners, senior leaders, or professionals. Their purpose is to provide Godly counsel, mutual support, and accountability, as well as insights and solutions to business and life challenges or new opportunities. YP groups are designed for men in their 20’s and 30’s. These groups help young men navigate the challenges, pressures, and priorities of family, work, and faith. Members also learn from guest speakers who are seasoned business owners and/or C-level leaders.

Connect-3 teams and Bible studies are also available to provide an environment where men can connect to God, connect to one another, and connect to the mission to bring biblical principles and the Gospel into the workplace. Additional 2023 activities will include Business Connection luncheons, Bible studies, workshops, the annual golf classic on July 31, leadership coach training, and social events.

CBMC Lincoln is part of a global ministry that encourages men toward spiritual development, personal integrity, principled leadership, and a desire to impact others positively. To learn more about CBMC Lincoln and 2023 activities, call (402) 540-1093, connect with them on Facebook (@cbmclincolnne), or visit Lincoln.cbmc.com.

Branched oak observatory makes progress on earth-moon-earth Communication system

Branched Oak Observatory is making progress on their Earth-Moon-Earth communication system. Early in December, Doug Buhrman, Matthew Anderson, David Dickinson, and Paul Spieker took to the skies aboard a JLG lift and completed a major portion of the exciting new Earth-Moon-Earth communication system. Doug, the mastermind behind the project, hopes to be ready for Branched Oak’s first “Moon Bounce” by early this year.

Thanks to generous funding from the NASA Nebraska Space Grant and the Nebraska Governance and Technology Center at UNL, Branched Oak Observatory is developing educational programming to promote student and public engagement in radio spectrum science, amateur radio, and telecommunication mechanics. The capstone experience of this programming will be an Earth-Moon-Earth, aka “Moon Bounce” communication, where the participants will have the opportunity to send their voice, via a powerful modulated radio signal, to the Moon and back. Branched Oak hopes that this unique experience will spark a lifelong interest in astronomy within their participants, and encourage career paths in telecommunications and space science.

Branched Oak Observatory is open to the general public and students of astronomy. With the help of local astronomers and amazing volunteers, they setup a variety of telescopes and explored the night sky. Learn more by visit the website at branchedoakobservatory. com or keep up with new events and opportunities on the Facebook page (@branchedoakobservatory).

friendship home thanks Community partners for holiday season help

Friendship Home received an outpour of generous support from the community to sponsor families during the 2022 Holiday season. Starting in November, the community organization teamed up to provide 30 families a meal for Thanksgiving, which included turkey, stuffing, yams, and cranberry sauce. There were an additional seven turkeys that were given to families that Friendship Home serves in other capacities. Donations from the Thanksgiving meals were provided by Clark Enerson, Community of Christ Church, Olsson, Advanced Chiropractic, and several other community partners. Friendship Home once again wants to thank these community partners for their support.

In December, Friendship Home hosted its annual Sponsored Families holiday gift drive. Over 75 organizations, businesses, churches, and community supporters donated holiday gifts to be given to all 202 survivors served at Friendship Home. Thanks to Friendship Home’s generous community, so many individuals are provided with hope and support.

If you are interested in learning more about future Friendship Home events, please contact Whitney at whitneyw@friendshiphome.org, or call (402) 434-0167.

Friendship Home provides crisis services, emergency shelter, and transitional housing to survivors 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.

down syndrome Association for families to offer Crossfit for Adaptive Athletes program

Down Syndrome Association for Families (DSAF) will be offering CrossFit classes for adaptive athletes starting on January 7. The class will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Lincoln Nutrition & Fitness, 720 Van Dorn St.

CrossFit for Adaptive Athletes is a program offered to young adult and adult members of DSAF with Down syndrome and other varying abilities who want to branch out and enjoy a safe, adaptable, and effective program that incorporates equipment used by athletes who practice CrossFit. Lyndsie Koon, PhD, is certified in adaptive training and has partnered with CrossFit Lincoln to bring this exciting new opportunity to DSAF members to build strength and confidence of participants. There will be enough coaches to accommodate up to 15 athletes for each session, so register now at dsafnebraska.org to reserve your spot!

Each class is $3 to participate. Classes are for those ages 13 and older. Those under the age of 18 will need a parent/guardian to sign waiver to participate.

Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska recognizes that every person with Down Syndrome is an individual who has a unique purpose and set of abilities. It is their mission to provide support and a positive vision for the future for individuals with Down Syndrome and their families, friends, educators, and professionals who share in their lives. For more information about the organization, visit dsafnebraska. org or call (403) 421-1338.

nebraska safety Council Announces new podcast series

The Nebraska Safety Council (NESC) will hold their first connections podcast on Thursday, February 2. This new series will give the community a chance to hear from local, regional, and national professionals that will speak on a variety of topics such as workplace safety, driving safety, employee well-being in the workplace, and more.

The podcast series will be recorded live at Hail Varsity Club (12744 Westport Pkwy, Ste. 1A, in La Vista) starting at 12:00pm. Members of NESC are invited to join a networking event following the live podcast. More details can be found on their website at www.nesafetycouncil.org.

Hurrdat is a media, marketing, and entertainment company that has agreed to partner with NESC to sponsor their podcast series.

“I am very excited for this opportunity,” says John M. Lefler, Jr., NESC executive director. “As we continue to grow, we must adapt to better serve the needs of our members. This podcast will allow us to reach more individuals remotely and also gives members the opportunity to network with like-minded human resources, safety and wellness professionals.”

The Mission of the Nebraska Safety Council is to provide education and leadership to empower Nebraskans to live safe and healthy. They offer comprehensive programs, training courses, events, and services that are designed to improve employee care at a desk, on the production floor, behind the wheel, and on the job. To learn more or to sign up for a membership today, visit nesafetycouncil.org, call (402) 483-2511, or email nesc@nesafetycouncil.org.

CAsA for Lancaster County seeks singers for Be

the Voice Lincoln february 9

CASA for Lancaster County is searching for local singers to participate in their annual singing competition, Be the Voice Lincoln. This year, the event will take place on February 9 at Screamers Restaurant from 5:30 to 8 p.m. More information about the event will be released soon, so stay up-to-date by following CASA for Lancaster County on Facebook.

If you have dreams of singing on the big stage, CASA is now in the process of scouting contestants. Please contact Amanda Conradt at aconradt@ casa4lancaster.org or Kristi Morrow at kmorrow@casa4lancaster.org if you or someone you know is interested in being a contestant.

CASA for Lancaster County recruits, trains, and supports community volunteers who advocate on behalf of abused, neglected, truant, and ungovernable children in Juvenile Court. This past year, with the pandemic, has been especially challenging for children in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. CASA volunteers get to know the children, their situation, and then write reports that go directly to the juvenile court judge sharing their observations and recommendations for next steps. To learn more about how you or your business can support these efforts, visit www.casa4lancaster.org or call (402) 474-5161 / (402) 474-5188.

dreamCatchers opens Applications for summer trail ride Academy

DreamCatchers: Strength Through Horses is beginning to plan for warmer months ahead by taking applications for Trail Ride Academy, an all-around horse experience that culminates with trail riding at a local equestrian trail. DreamCatchers provides the horse, the equipment, and the lessons, where students experience one-on-one weekly sessions with Director Jodi Freeman. No horse experience is necessary. If you’re unsure of how you feel about horses, they are here to introduce you and help you become more comfortable with them.

As a Certified Peer Support Specialist and Human Services instructor, Jodi is trained and experienced in offering emotional support along with the horse experience. Trail Ride Academy will begin in April as the weather warms and will expand during the summer months. For information and to apply for Trail Ride Academy, please email info@dreamcatchersride. org with “Trail Ride Academy” as the subject.

To be added to DreamCatchers’ VIP list and be the first to know about upcoming activities and events, email info@dreamcatchersride.org with “VIP Opt-In” as the subject. Anyone interested in supporting clients who are unable to afford the cost may arrange to make tax-deductible donations by emailing jodi@dreamcatchersride.org.

DreamCatchers: Strength Through Horses is here to support individuals by sharing their love of the magnificent creatures that are horses. It has been proven both scientifically and by observation that horses and humans have a unique emotional bond. That bond is a big factor in healing from emotional trauma and finding confidence. Learn more at dreamcatchersride.org.

AHA to Benefit from UNO’s Dodgeball tournament for heart disease february 3

The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is excited to sponsor a dodgeball tournament to benefit The American Heart Association (AHA) of Nebraska. The event will take place on Friday, February 3 at the H&K building on UNO’s campus, 6323 Maverick Plaza in Omaha. Check-in will begin at 5 p.m., with game play beginning at 5:30 p.m. The fun-filled night will include friendly competition, free food, and prizes.

Teams of six to eight players are welcome to join the fun. Entry fees are $150 per team, or $125 for teams of students. Registration information is coming soon, but those interested can email kelly. morris@heart.org for more details.

Heart disease is highly preventable. Genetic factors contribute but the disease is largely attributed to lifestyle. Come get active for a good cause!

American Heart Association believes every person deserves the opportunity for a full, healthy life. As champions for health equity, the American Heart Association will advance cardiovascular health for all, including identifying and removing barriers to health care access and quality. To achieve this, they work by driving equitable health impact in our communities. For more information, visit www.heart.org.

humanities nebraska promotes Uno’s "Charting our path" traveling exhibit

Humanities Nebraska is pleased to promote The University of Nebraska at Omaha’s (UNO) traveling exhibit “Charting Our Path: Celebrating 50 Years of Black Studies.” The exhibit celebrates the 50 years of Black Studies at UNO, sharing the turbulent history and triumphs of one of the oldest Black Studies departments in the nation.

“Charting Our Path: Celebrating 50 Years of Black Studies” is an eight-panel traveling exhibit sharing historical snapshots of one of the oldest Black Studies departments in the nation. The exhibit highlights the department’s civil rights origins, attempts to downgrade the department to a program, and the mutual engagement between campus and community. The banners share archival materials such as newspaper clippings, department documents, and photos chronicling events from the 1969 campus sit-in, to the celebration of the “Omaha 54” student activists 52 years later. The history of the Department of Black Studies has been characterized by a constant struggle for survival, but also by the enduring engagement and support of the Omaha Black community.

This traveling exhibit was curated by Claire Du Laney, UNO Libraries Outreach Archivist, and researched in part by Paul Jensen, UNO Libraries student worker. This program is funded in part by Humanities Nebraska and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment. To learn more, go to www.unomaha.edu/criss-library/news/2022/02/charting-our-pathblack-studies-traveling-exhibit.php.

The exhibit will be at the following locations in 2023:

• UNO Libraries January 1-4

• Nebraska Methodist College January 4-March 1

• Baright Public Library, Ralston March 23-May 12

• Great Plains Black History Museum July 1-31

For more information about Humanities Nebraska, go to humanitiesnebraska.org.

the Arc of Lincoln Announces programs for 2023

The Arc of Lincoln is excited for the year ahead as they have announced the program lineup for 2023.

On the second Friday of each month, adults with intellectual/ developmental disabilities are invited to the Come Together social gatherings. On the third Thursday of the month, school age teenagers with intellectual/developmental disabilities are invited to Friendly Faces social gatherings. Both the Come Together and Friendly Faces groups will meet from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at Hands of Heartland, 7501 O St., Suite 105.

During the January gatherings, participants will be looking toward the future of 2023 and creating vision boards, personalized journals, and calendars. Participants are asked to bring inspiring photos. The Arc of Lincoln would appreciate community donations of magazines for sources of inspirational photos. Magazines may be dropped off at The Arc of Lincoln office from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily.

The Arc of Lincoln has also announced a new series, Networking Nights for Parents. This series will begin on January 24 from 5:307:00 p.m. Networking Nights provide a time to gather as parents of individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities to share stories and ideas, as well as tips about how to nurture and support their children. Future dates will be planned by participants.

To learn sign up for these programs 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.

Child saving institute sets 2023 Cabaret fundraiser for April 14

Child Saving Institute is ready to host a night of laughter and friends for a good cause. The 2023 Cabaret will take place on Friday, April 14 at the Embassy Suites Omaha La Vista Hotel & Conference Center. Join Child Saving Institute for an evening of cocktails, dinner, and entertainment featuring comedian Bret Ernst. All money raised will support Child Saving Institute and its life-changing services provided to more than 2,500 children and families each year.

Guest Comedian Bret Ernst can currently be seen playing Louie LaRusso in the hit series Cobra Kai, and is regarded as one of the best stand-ups in the business by his peers. He first gained national notoriety as one of the stars of the movie “Vince Vaughn’s Wild West Comedy Show,” and his “Comedy Central Presents” was voted #5 on the network’s “Stand-Up Showdown” the same year it aired. The 25-year standup veteran dives into the trials and tribulations of marriage. Bret is relatable to his audiences and brings humor to everyday life events.

The event will be emceed by Julie Cornell. Julie is an awardwinning journalist with KETV Newswatch 7. During her 30 years at KETV, Julie has helped shine a light on issues that might go unnoticed. Her work over the years has focused on investigations, children’s issues, addiction, women’s issues, and the environment.

To learn more about Child Saving Institute and the programs and services offered, please visit www.childsaving.org or follow CSI on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

heartland Cancer foundation to host 8th Annual Gala march 4th

Support Heartland Cancer Foundation’s mission by joining them on Saturday, March 4th for the 8th Annual Mardi Gras Gala, presented by Oncology Supply, at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel. This is the Heartland Cancer Foundation’s largest annual fundraiser and raises critical funds to support cancer patients in Nebraska.

This incredible evening will feature interactive audience entertainment, a silent auction, live auction, bourbon pull, delicious food from Omaha Steaks, and lively Mardi Gras flair! Something special this year will be interactive audience entertainment starting at 8 p.m. DJ Chavez will be leading a game of Music Bingo. Hear a song clip and mark it off -- it’s that easy!

Tickets start at $175. You can purchase yours at one.bidpal.net/ hcfmardigras2023.

Sponsorship opportunities of every size and for every budget are now available. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity for your business to get exposure, attend a spectacular event, and make a difference for local cancer patients.

More than 11,000 Nebraskans will be diagnosed with cancer this year. The Heartland Cancer Foundation’s mission is to provide practical and immediate financial assistance to eligible cancer patients in our community so they can focus on what matters most: healing.

Learn more and get involved at heartlandcancerfoundation.org.

YmCAof Lincoln’sGiving tree programBrings Cheer

to elliott & pershing

The YMCA of Lincoln made the holidays a little brighter for children at Elliott and Pershing Elementary Schools. Their annual Giving Tree program collected nearly a thousand donations for children in preschool through fourth grade so that every student would receive a special holiday gift this year. Gifts were distributed by YMCA staff and volunteers through the Y’s Community Learning Center (CLC) program on December 13.

elementary students

“In November and December, countless toys, crafts, and books were collected at our four YMCA membership facilities,” shared Youth, Teen & Family Director for the Lincoln YMCA Austin Klingenberg. “The Giving Tree truly brings people together over the holidays, and seeing the joy in these children’s faces makes it all worth it.”

The YMCA of Lincoln leads the schools’ CLC program in providing after school care and summer programing to keep students safe, learning, and active while supporting their families. This program has helped thousands of students improve academically and provided enriching experiences that they may not have had otherwise.

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 about the YMCA’s Community Learning Center programs, visit YMCALincoln.org.

nsspC receives $25K donation from healthy Blue nebraska

Healthy Blue Nebraska has donated $25,000 to the Nebraska State Suicide Prevention Coalition (NSSPC). The grant will help increase awareness, decrease stigma, and implement programs aimed at preventing suicide.

Dr. Dave Miers created the NSSPC over 20 years ago. The nonprofit is a voluntary group of committed and passionate individuals representing public and private agencies, suicide survivors and Nebraskans interested in suicide prevention. NSSPC is recognized by the Department of Health and Human Services as the primary group responsible for coordinating Nebraska suicide prevention efforts.

Last February, NSSPC launched My Companion, an app designed to help prevent youth suicide. It allows young people to cope with mental illness by logging daily journal reflections, accessing resources and hotlines, and submitting anonymous tips. My Companion is an example of a program made possible through grants and donations to NSSPC.

The NSSPC is a voluntary group made up of committed and passionate people representing public and private agencies, suicide survivors and Nebraskans interested in suicide prevention. NSSPC is recognized by the Department of Health and Human Services as the primary group responsible for coordinating Nebraska’s suicide prevention efforts. NSSPC relies on the generosity of private foundations, grants, and in-kind donations to continue the work of preventing suicide in Nebraska. All money given to NSSPC is invested right back into communities and into suicide prevention and postvention efforts. For more information, go to nsspc.org.

Viking foundation of Lincoln Awards Grants to 13 Lancaster County Nonprofits

In its 10th year of assisting nonprofit organizations, The Viking Foundation of Lincoln recently awarded grants totaling $110,000 to nonprofit organizations, including 13 in Lancaster County. “As we move into our second decade, our board of directors is delighted to continue supporting a broad range of benevolent organizations,” said Steve Eggland, the foundation’s president and founder. “With the recent increase in inflation, nonprofits and those they serve have been hit very hard. We are pleased to do our part to provide assistance.”

The Viking Foundation supported 23 grants, including these in the Lincoln area:

• $4,000 to Center for People in Need

• $4,000 to Child Advocacy Center

• $5,000 to Common Threads Sewing Group

• $3,000 to Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)

• $5,000 to Eastridge Presbyterian Church

• $5,000 to HopeSpoke

• $1,000 to Lincoln Fencing

• $4,000 to Malone Center

• $5,000 to Nebraska Appleseed

• $3,000 to Nebraska Children and Families Foundation

• $5,000 to Planned Parenthood

• $3.000 to Willard Community Center

• $3,000 to Yazda-Yazidi Cultural Center

The Viking Foundation was created to help improve and enrich the lives of individuals—especially children—who are less fortunate. The foundation provides charitable grants to 501(c)(3) organizations primarily in three counties. The grants are directed to those who are challenged with issues related to poverty, housing, gender, education, mental and physical health, and others. The 2023 grant proposal submission deadline is October 1. Detailed information about the foundation and its history, values and proposal guidelines can be found at vikingfoundation.webs.com.

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nonprofit news

Lancaster County 4-h hosts overnight Lock-in for 4th & 5th Graders

All 4th and 5th graders are invited to 4-H Teen Council’s annual overnight lock-in which will be held Friday, January 20, 8 p.m. to Saturday, January 21, 8 a.m. at the Nebraska Extension in Lancaster County conference rooms, 444 Cherrycreek Road, Suite A, Lincoln. Youth do not need to be enrolled in 4-H. This year’s theme will be “Neon Night.” The cost is $20 per person. Registrations are due by January 18.

Activities will include an exciting sleep over, fun projects, several games, snacks and movies! Be sure to bring your sleeping bag, pillow, toothbrush, toothpaste, active wear, sleepwear (sweats) and invite a friend to also attend!

To register your child, you can make checks payable to Lancaster County 4-H Teen Council and mail with “Nebraska 4-H Participant Permission and Health Form” (available at the Extension office and online at go.unl.edu/4hhealthform) to: Tracy Anderson, Nebraska Extension in Lancaster County, 444 Cherrycreek Rd., STE A, Lincoln, NE 68528. For more information, contact Tracy Anderson at tracy. anderson@unl.edu or at (402) 441-7180.

Lancaster County 4-H helps young people develop the skills, knowledge, and experiences they need to reach their potential— and that creates a greater number of engaged citizens and community leaders. 4-H raises funds to support these programs. For more information or to inquire about enrolling a student in a 4-H program, call (402) 441-7180 or visit lancaster.unl.edu/4h.

Cause Collective hosts Case manager training

event

Cause Collective has put together a training event for case managers on Thursday, January 12 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. over Zoom. Case managers face a wide range of concerns and situations related to the populations they treat and support; these situations can be complex and require decision making based on a guiding and supportive code of ethics. The use of a developed code of ethics not only supports thoughtful and protective decision making but also the integration of supportive and effective treatment strategies, it also protects all individuals involved in human services relationships.

This free two-hour presentation will offer an opportunity to better understand counseling principles of ethical practice as defined by the American Counseling Association and include the interactive experience to apply these principles to presented case studies. This presentation will promote the implementation of these principles in the daily work of human services professionals to best support those we serve and to better protect professionals from ethical pitfalls. Attendees can register for this by going to Cause Collective’s Facebook page and finding the link to the event.

Cause Collective is a nonprofit in Lincoln that seeks to strengthen nonprofits to better serve the community through collaboration, education, and advocacy. They are a member-based organization with over 130 members throughout Lincoln and Lancaster County. To learn more about joining, visit causecollectivelincoln.org and go to the “Become a Member” tab. For more information on the event, please contact Kayla Kruske at (402) 441-4399 or coordinator@causecollectivelincoln.org.

Engineered Controls Advancing the Skyline

Engineered Controls has been creating significant headway for buildings and facilities of all sizes and types spanning across the state of Nebraska. They are responsible for the design, installation, management, and services within building management and security solutions. For more than 20 years, they have been dedicated to designing easy-to-use building automation and security systems that provide the highest possible energy efficiency, while ensuring occupant comfort, and maintaining a safe and secure workplace.

As a technology contractor, their vision is to participate in projects that transform the way buildings are designed, built, and operated. They strive to create environmentally responsible, profitable, and healthy places to live and work. From the integration of new control technologies into their design, to the contracting work they engage in, Engineered Controls is participating in the service and construction of buildings now and well into the future.

Building Services

Engineered Controls provides commercial customers with reliable, cost-effective HVAC building automation, control service, and energy solutions. They have achieved a reputation as the premier service provider in their industry and have developed a solid reputation for creating innovative building management and energy performance solutions. They provide a wide range of mobile HVAC services and solutions including building design, equipment retrofits, commissioning, training, repair, preventive maintenance, and energy management.

Construction and Retrofit

As a business they also assist building owners, managers, consulting engineers, mechanical, and electrical contractors with product and system knowledge. By applying both existing and emerging building control technology products, Engineered Controls can help you leverage the power of environmental controls, building automation, and security system products to meet your environmental and security goals throughout the life of the building.

Design and Consulting

Engineered Controls understands that building owners, managers, and consulting specifying engineers need assistance developing comprehensive project documentation for their projects. With lunch-and-learn activities designed to provide information on the latest in building automation, security technology, equipment selection, and other topics, and testing of sequence of operations, they strive to be a resource. They also provide their customers similar support and assistance with equipment optimization for both existing and new installation.

Energy Optimization

Saving energy saves money; it’s as simple as that. As most building owners know, energy is the single largest expense in a building’s total operating budget. To help their customers in identifying efficiency areas in their buildings, Engineered Controls has developed Energy Optimization programs. They are designed to leverage a broad portfolio of energy efficiency products and solutions, as well as offer a high level of energy expertise to commercial buildings in the hands of their skilled and knowledgable professionals.

To celebrate the holidays with our community, we decided to put a twist on the last Friends4Drinks of the year. We gathered at Paisley Lynn Boutique for some great snacks and fun holiday shopping! Paisley Lynn Boutique has trending and unique pieces to create harmony and ambiance in your home. We had an amazing time sipping wine, eating charcuterie, and going to their many staged rooms in the suite they're located in. Every room had new gifts and home decor to look at! We loved the experience and will definitely be back to the boutique once the holidays are over. Can you ever go wrong with a hot, cheesy slice of pizza? We don't think so! That's why we ended the year at one of our favorite restaurants - Vic's Pizza! This networking event was a great way to round out the busyness of the season. We enjoyed their buffet with several things to try, including the famous Nebraska Pizza Massacre. We also enjoyed slices of the Breakfast for Mr. Jones pizza, which is packed full of comfort and warmth while it's chilly outside. Whatever you get, it's a must-try and we were so happy to have a relaxing afternoon at Vic's.

It's the start of the new year! We're heading to Piedmont Bistro by Venue on January 13, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. for Friends4Lunch. This beloved local restaurant serves fresh, madefrom-scratch cuisine. Piedmont’s menu offers a wide variety of options including daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner options along with their all-day Sunday brunch. We will have a select menu for our event, featuring some of your favorite dishes and appetizers. Our group will dine in the Cotner Room, the bistro’s private event room. It provides an inviting cozy atmosphere for networking. Piedmont Bistro is located at 1265 S. Cotner Blvd. in The Shoppes at Piedmont. We hope you can make it!

Friends4Drinks is a chance for you to treat yourself to a change of scenery while connecting with other professionals outside of the office over a refreshing drink! This unique networking opportunity in Lincoln is casual and open to anyone in the business community who is interested in attending…it’s not just for clients so feel free to invite a friend or colleague! We can't believe it's already 2023...cheers to the New Year! Let's start it off right by gathering at Cactus by Venue on January 27th from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. for our Friends4Drinks networking event. Cactus has taquitos, enchiladas, tacos, and many great combos and platters to choose from. The restaurant also has a colorful drink selection. Cactus is a family-oriented restaurant that utilizes locally-sourced ingredients to dish out innovative, modern Mexican cuisine. Some of the restaurant’s amenities include a cantina bar, a private dining room, and a spacious outdoor patio. This event is free to attend and open to anyone who would like to come hang out and make new connections—you just pay for what you order.

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

As their name implies, Concrete Craft considers themselves more than a concrete company in Lincoln. They are your craftspeople who take great pride in bringing artistry to the industry. So, when it comes to choosing new paving for your patio, driveway, walkway, or pool deck – including interior floors like basements and garages – you can count on the professionals at Concrete Craft. They have an extensive variety of decorative concrete stamping, resurfacing, and staining options to create just about any look you dream of.

Beauty That’s Stamped in Stone

What is stamped concrete? Stamped concrete, commonly referred to as patterned concrete or imprinted concrete, uses rubber stamps designed from “real stone” molds to imprint the concrete to resemble natural brick, slate, cobblestone, tile, and even wood planks.

Awaken Your

Concrete’s

Full Potential with Concrete Resurfacing

Cover up imperfections in your existing concrete or turn your plain slab into something fabulous! With resurfaced concrete, commonly referred to as a concrete overlay, decorative concrete overlay, or concrete coating, Concrete Craft can give your interior and exterior concrete floors, patios, walkways, driveways, retaining walls, accent walls, fireplaces, and more. A full makeover at a much lower cost than removal and replacement!

Rich Colors that Stay True Over Time

Stained concrete has long been popular in the commercial industry due to its proven durability and versatility. Because of this and its ability to beautifully add depth to a room, the concrete stain has found its way into residential design trends. With the option to use an acid-based stain or water-based acrylic, the results Concrete Craft designers can achieve are almost limitless.

Restore Your Concrete to Look Like New Concrete Craft’s exclusive MasterPro Repair and Restore products are designed specifically for concrete repair and restoration that will transform your concrete to a “like-new” condition. They specialize in repairing and restoring residential concrete such as patios, driveways, walkways, and pool decks that have suffered from years of exposure. Additionally, commercial spaces like warehouses, driveways, courtyards, and walkways that get lots of use and abuse can be repaired and restored in a matter of days instead of weeks or months, eliminating costly downtime.

Polished Concrete Flooring

Concrete Craft understands that proper preparation is required to get the best results— and these trained professionals know how to deliver a lower-maintenance, high-gloss surface on new or existing concrete. They bring decades of combined experience and valued industry certifications to safeguard your job will be done right, and finished having a long-lasting lifetime.

the future of small Business

Last month I had the opportunity to be interviewed by two different national podcasts to discuss small business and the issues facing small business today. The discussion included talk about the importance of being involved in local politics as business owners, why it is important to support local businesses, and how as business owners we can continue to be involved to grow our business and promote the future of small business in our communities.

Shopping and supporting our local business is imperative for our community. These businesses are the ones who are active in our community and supporting other businesses in the community and our local activities for youth, our favorite nonprofit organizations, and contributing daily to our local economy.

This month the Nebraska Legislature will convene the 108th Legislature, First Session, our local governments are meeting regularly. As business owners, we need to stay engaged in local politics and understand the intersection of government and business to make sure our businesses will not be adversely impacted. In December, LIBA member Scott Lockard from Hampton Enterprises testified before the Small Business Subcommittee on Oversight, Investigations, and Regulations. His testimony focused on the strain’s businesses are feeling in the current economic climate. As I have said many times, decisions are made by those who show up.

Over the past year, LIBA has invested a great deal of time and effort promoting small business to future generations. Last spring, we hosted a career fair at The Career Academy (TCA) and Pius X high school to introduce students to business owners and to help business owners find employees. Through the event at TCA, over 100 students found jobs in their field to gain valuable experience while helping businesses address their workforce needs. In the fall I was invited to TCA to speak to their entrepreneurship classes in every pathway to discuss the intersection of government and business. I have been a strong supporter and advocate for TCA and by being in the classroom with students, my passion to help them grow became even stronger.

For the past three years I have become active as a volunteer with Junior Achievement, helping students in grades kindergarten through eighth grade. Having the opportunity to be in schools speaking to young people about business and entrepreneurship is exciting for the future of our community. I have been thoroughly impressed with the young people and their ideas for entrepreneurship. At very young ages, they are aware of business principles and interested in entrepreneurship.

As business owners I encourage you to invest the time to get involved and build the future of small business by engaging with the young people in our community. I know running a business takes up a great deal of our time and we all could use more time in our day. To be able to get out and be engaged with the future generation is a great way to energize yourself because of the thirst these young people have for learning more about business and entrepreneurship. As we think toward the future, these young people are our future interns, apprentices, employees, and business owners.

Looking ahead to 2023 I hope we can all come together to find ways to engage and support the next generation of business owners. I wish you and your business great success in 2023!

LIBAstudiesandpromotesthesetypesofissuesthatareimportanttobusinesses and our community. If you have an interest in joining, please call LIBA at (402)466-3419.LIBAmembershipisnotrestrictedtojustbusinesses.We alsohave“individual”membershipsforthosewhowanttohelpinfluenceour localgovernmentdecisions.

Caring Friends In Home Care: Your Trusted Choice For In-Home Care

Caring Friends In Home Care is a cost-effective, nonmedical, in-home care company. With Caring Friends collaborative caregiving, their goal is to develop a relationship with their clients to help keep them physically and mentally active. They believe in-home care is more than just completing tasks on a list. They offer personalized care that helps clients enjoy time and improve their quality of life. Caring Friends has no minimum timeframe for visits. They will do as little as one hour, and do not charge mileage to allow every client to access care within their budget allowing them to continue to live life on their terms in their home.

Caring Friends In Home Care clients have peace of mind knowing that they are working with staff that are dedicated to their satisfaction. You can depend on Caring Friends In Home Care to assign care staff that are qualified and compassionate. They will ensure a compatible match based upon your personal needs. With Caring Friends In Home Care, you or your loved one will have the necessary assistance needed at home to maintain a safe, independent, and enjoyable lifestyle.

Why Choose Caring Friends?

Caring Friends In Home Care is your trusted choice for exceptional in-home care for your loved one. They are passionate about wanting the best for their clients, delivering care in familiar surroundings. Your care will be directed by your own individualized choices.

• A trusted provider of companion services that are tailored to meet individual needs.

• A level of service that meets and exceeds the healthcare industry’s highest standards with a local site coordinator as well as known caregivers employed in your county.

• 24-hour service, including all holidays and weekends.

• Cost effective, compassionate and trusted care for your loved one in their own home.

• Flexible payment options, including the acceptance of Medicaid Waiver, Veterans Administration, Long Term Care Insurance, or Private Pay.

When you contact Caring Friends, you’ll speak with the Intake Coordinator who will take your information and have a Site Coordinator in your area get back in touch with you. Your site coordinator will be happy to discuss your specific needs, desires, and goals-as well as your worries-in detail. Your Caring Friends local Site Coordinator visits your home to meet you and your family, discuss your needs, and answer your questions. They work closely with you, any other family members providing care, and your loved one’s physician to create a custom care plan based on their needs and goals. Your Site Coordinator orients your loved one’s care team to their needs, checks in with you, other family caregivers, and your loved one to see how things are going, and makes regular supervisory visits. They will continually reassess your loved one’s needs and ensure that their caregiver’s training is appropriate should new or additional services be required.

Your Trusted Choice For In Home Care

Gotham shines its Bat signal in the haymarket

Right below 402 Creamery lies a new bar in the Historic Haymarket. Gotham Bar is one of Haymarket’s latest bars. Located on 8th street where JJ Hooligans used to be is a Batmanthemed bar that allows you to win collectibles, pose next to a life-sized Harley Quinn figurine in an Arkham Asylum backdrop, and allow artists to showcase their work.

Owner Jared Ernest owns Gotham alongside Mike Bretta. Bretta owns the three Toys of the Past locations in Lincoln. He contributed to the small knick-knacks around the place, but that’s not what makes it unique.

movies,” Ernest said. “It’s dark like the Asylum, kind of like a cave.” The space reminded the owners of the classic gritty comic books, but they are willing to change the theme.

“It’s an every person’s bar,” Ernest said. “It’s not just Batman or DC themed; it’s whatever fits the motif at the time. It could be Star Wars or whatever we decide. I always wanted a place where we could really display some illustrations, some of the artists we know.”

Floor-to-ceiling bathroom murals executed by locals make this place feel like you’ve walked into Gotham City. The designs on the walls encourage people to contribute with their own doodles to add to the chaos of Gotham’s bathroom stalls.

“I started looking around [the bar] and it’s like a big open canvas,” Ernest said.

Gotham prides itself on its eclectic murals throughout the establishment but is also planning on hosting local musicians during the week.

“We plan to utilize our stage for live music events,” Ernest said. “We built this stage, we have it wired from a soundboard and everything. We planned for this.”

With the creation of specialty cocktails to fit the theme comes pub food that is perfect for classic dive bar visits.

Gotham hosts Trivia Nights every other Wednesday, each night focusing on a specific pop culture theme. You can find the theme for the next Trivia Night at @Gothamathaymarket on Instagram.

Foundedin1967,theDowntownLincolnAssociationprovidesservicesandchampionsinitiativesfor maintainingandenhancingourvibrantdowntown.Ourvisionistocreateanenergeticdowntown environmentwherewelive,learn,work,investandplay.DLAhasevolvedintoamulti-faceted organizationsupportingawiderangeofprogramsandactivitiesincludingmaintenance,economic developmentandadvocacy.Foracompletelistingofdowntownbusinesses,eventsandresidences visitdowntownlincoln.org.‘Like’usonFacebookatfacebook.com/downtownlincoln.

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CBD oil does not contain the part of cannabis plant that is responsible for causing a “high”. It is made from a cannabis compound called cannabidiol (CBD) that is found in all cannabis plants. This compound interacts with our body through the endocannabinoid system, which is the system that regulates the bodies normal homeostasis. As the environment around us affects our body’s normal state of balance, the endocannabinoid system keeps our bodies leveled.

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Taking or using a CBD enriched product can enhance your body’s ability to maintain balance and manage occasional stress. It is also known to have many beneficial properties and is particularly effective for supporting focus and maintaining health and well-being.

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by Jason Ball president

(402) 436-2350 www.lcoc.com

Celebrating a Year of Great Accomplishments for Lincoln

2022 was an incredible year for Lincoln. I am extremely proud of the work of the Lincoln business community and our team at the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. Together, we made a significant impact on our community, including expanding our workforce development and talent retention efforts, announcing new programming for the women of Lincoln’s business community, applauding our outstanding young professionals at the Lincoln Young Professionals Group’s Young Lincoln Leader Awards and honoring the best of Lincoln business at our 27th annual Celebrate Business Awards Luncheon in December.

Reflecting on the growth, achievements and success of 2022, several truly impactful accomplishments stand out that are worth celebrating: An Economic Vitality Strategic Plan was launched for Lincoln. With the support of our board of directors, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce partnered with two top consulting firms, Broad Ripple Strategies and DMOProz, to develop a strategic plan for our community, focused on defining a vision for our city’s economic future and how to achieve it. The plan, which was announced at our annual Economic Development Breakfast last summer, is being finalized with input from the community at large in response to a citywide survey, as well as thoughtful direction from a steering committee of community leaders. The final strategic plan will be introduced to our membership and the community in February at the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting. Learn more about the Economic Vitality Strategic Plan at lcoc.com/economic-strategy. It was a successful year for local policy. As the voice for local business, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce’s public policy team had great success in 2022. This included successfully lobbying on ARPA funds for Lincoln housing, childcare, infrastructure, workforce, internship and other community needs; successfully lobbying for Amendment 1 for expanded air service, which was overwhelmingly supported by voters in the November election; and successfully lobbying for the largest individual and corporate income tax cut in Nebraska history, property tax relief and exempting Social Security income from state and income taxes. Additionally, our work supported an elevated investment in economic development through the increase of funds within the city’s building and development department budgets.

Plans for the Lincoln Youth Complex were announced. This fall, Visit Lincoln, a division of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, unveiled plans for a baseball and softball complex north of Oak Lake Park in partnership with Nebraska Wesleyan University, the City of Lincoln, Lancaster County and other community partners. The complex will house eight turfed fields, including two championship fields for both baseball and softball and one field for Homer’s Heroes for boys and girls with physical and intellectual disabilities. The addition of the Lincoln Youth Complex to our community will positively impact the lives of athletes and continue to position Lincoln as a premier destination for youth sports for years to come.

On behalf of our entire team at the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, thank you for working together to continue moving our city forward. The future is bright for Lincoln, and I am eager to see what 2023 unfolds for our community.

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 atdfeyerherm@lincoln.org.

New Year’s resolutions are great tools for improving on things that may have been pushed aside for one reason or another, or for picking up a new hobby to try. It’s no secret that New Year’s resolutions are often ditched at some point in the year, so we visited with some businesses in the Lincoln community to learn what advice they had for those who want to really stick with their 2023 goals.

It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint Lincoln Running Co. says that it is time to have an “ultra runner mindset” when thinking about getting through this winter and being ready for spring, whether you are a runner, a walker, or someone who wants to be ready to tackle their passion when the weather turns nice!

Setting time-sensitive, distinct goals is one of the best ways to make sure your resolutions come to fruition this year. Too often we set vague, easily forgettable resolutions such as “read more” or “watch less TV”, and while those are goals we can all easily try to stick to, many times they fall through the cracks. If you’re ready to check something off of your bucket list this year, Lincoln Running Co. Manager Ann Ringlein has the perfect option.

“Is this the year? The year you commit to running the Lincoln Marathon/Half Marathon? There are all kinds of reasons people decide they want to accomplish this goal - and they are all great reasons,” said Ann. “The Lincoln Running Co and The Movement Academy are here to help you meet those goals with the Marathon/Half Marathon class that begins January 12!”

Spend the first four months of the year improving your mind, body, and overall health, and then get the ultimate satisfaction of crossing the finish line at The Lincoln Marathon on May 7. The marathon classes are geared towards overcoming one of the main obstacles that everyone has to tackle while trying to stick to a resolution: accountability.

“This class has been going on for 25 years and one thing we have learned is runners need to be accountable - and that is where this class comes in,” Ann explained. “We meet on Tuesday mornings for some fast stuff, Thursday evenings for a run and a speaker, and the Saturday morning long runs. You don't have to make any decisions about what to run, where to run, or how to run. Those have all been made. Taking all that decision-making out of running is a huge plus, and our training partners become you best friends for four months!”

Between the Lincoln Running Co., supplying you with the proper shoe for your feet and the right apparel to get you out the door feeling confident about fighting off the cold weather, and The Movement Academy setting you up with the proper strength training for running, you can't go wrong!

“From the new ‘super shoes’ which truly help you recover better, to a strength training class for runners, the two of us really have you covered for training for the Lincoln Marathon/Half Marathon,” said Ann.

Ann ringlein Lincoln running Co.

A Boost of Health Benefits and Relaxation

Health goals don’t always involve working out and striving to achieve better fitness of the body. Many people set resolutions to improve their mental state, such as attaining a healthy sleep routine or improving their focus. CBD supplements can help people reach these goals – and others! Brandon Ford, manager at CBD American Shaman on 48th, had some advice on how to stick to your resolutions and how CBD may be able to help you achieve them.

“Strive to achieve your goals by starting a little different this year. When we have a balanced mind and body, we start to think clearly and feel more energized. Our products help you maintain balance,” said Brandon. “That’s what they call homeostasis. CBD gets those receptors working properly throughout the body, which helps get the body back into balance. CBD is all-natural and non-habit forming.”

Products at CBD American Shaman include a full line of CBD products for people and pets, along with Delta 8, Delta 9, and HHC products. All products are industrial hemp derived and Farm Bill 2018 compliant.

CBD has a proprietary nanotechnology, which represents the ultimate refinement of hemp oil concentrate. This makes the size of the molecule smaller so that your body absorbs 90-100% of their CBD compared to only 10-30% of the CBD at other companies. To put it in perspective, CBD American Shaman’s 300 milligram water soluble is comparable to other companies’ 3000 milligram standard oil tincture.

“We provide in-store consultations with Certified Hemp Experts. We can chat about your goals, and help you form healthy new habits that forge a path of health and wellbeing for the New Year,” Brandon explained.

Since CBD supports many of the body’s functional systems, it is a great supplement for not just your mental state, but your overall health. For example, CBD may promote joint flexibility and cartilage health, help maintain cardiovascular function and a healthy circulatory system, help maintain immune system health, and help promote urinary tract health. CBD may also provide relief from mild discomfort, help manage everyday stress, provide relief from occasional difficulty sleeping, and promote feelings of focus. All of these fantastic benefits of CBD may promote overall wellness for the body and mind. Stop in to one of CBD American Shaman’s three Lincoln locations for a free sample and expert advice on how CBD can improve your 2023!

Make SMART Goals!

If anyone knows a thing or two about sticking to a goal, it’s the team at Husker Rehab . 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.

The same process that it takes to get someone back on their feet after an injury can help you reach your resolutions this year.

“Start with a SMART goal. Make sure you tell someone about your goal to help keep you accountable,” explained Husker Rehab Physical Therapist Janna Vavra.

A SMART goal is a goal that is formed from five facets that make the goal more likely to be achieved.

Brandon ford CBd American shaman

Janna Vavra husker rehab

“The S stands for specific. It’s easier to achieve your goal if you are specific. For example, saying you want to lose weight is too broad. Instead, set a specific goal to lose ten pounds,” said Janna. “The M is for meaningful. The goal has to be important to you or you will lose motivation to do it. For example, are you trying to lose weight simply to look good? A more meaningful goal would be to lose 15 pounds to help prevent onset of diabetes, while also looking good!”

Janna continued to set up this example using the SMART model for us. “The A stands for actionable. How are you going to achieve this goal? You need to put some action to your words! For example, I would like to lose 15 pounds by going to the gym twice a week,” continued Janna. “The R is for realistic. Think about how realistic your goal is. Do you hate going to the gym? Perhaps a more realistic option for you would be to do a lunch walk with your coworkers daily. Finally, the T is for timely. Make sure you set a deadline to your goal. This helps you to track your progress and keeps you motivated to reach your goal because you know the deadline is approaching. For example, I want to lose 15 pounds by July 7.”

At Husker Rehab, they offer an active lifestyles program where you can utilize gym equipment on a regular basis following your final physical therapy treatment at their North location and Beatrice location. You work out independently, but they’re always there to answer any questions you might have. They also offer nutrition and mental health referrals. For those struggling with incontinence or other pelvic health issues, they offer pelvic floor rehab. Oftentimes individuals with pelvic floor dysfunction limit their activity due to potential embarrassing incidents. Husker Rehab can help address those pelvic floor needs so those individuals can be active again. You should never be afraid to commit to improving your health.

“It is common to not share your goal with others as it might seem embarrassing, but it’s best to let others know you have aspirations. Ask the person you share your goal with to be your accountability partner. That person can help you stay motivated on days you’re not feeling like doing your workout. It may also be the motivation

your accountability partner needed to also pursue their own goals,” Janna advised. “You will have some setbacks along the way, but don’t let that discourage you. It’s okay to miss a workout or to overindulge once in a while. It’s also okay to adjust your goal if you feel it’s no longer attainable. Maybe walking daily was too ambitious given your busy schedule, so adjust your goal to walking every other day instead. Small changes add up and you will eventually reach your goal if you stick with it!

Don’t worry about starting your New Year’s resolution on January 1. Pick a day that works for you. For example, the weekend after your birthday or when you return from vacation would be good times to start. This allows you to enjoy the weekend, holiday, or vacation without worrying about overindulging or not getting a workout in. Also, make sure you give yourself rewards along the way. If you start seeing your desired results, celebrate! You are making progress and that is worth celebrating!

Take it One Day at a Time

There are way too many trends in self-care and beauty to keep track of at once. If you have been putting off prioritizing the skin you’re in, try getting help from Skin Experts Skin Experts is adding a modern touch to the skincare and facial treatment industry that go beyond the surface level. They brought their skincare revolution to Lincoln on November 15 with the grand opening of their new location at 4400 Lucile Dr., STE 101. By combining the most advanced technologies with revolutionary skincare using ingredients for proven results, their experts are here to create long-term change you can really see. You will be able to customize your facial for your skin and add any booster at no additional cost for any skin type. From sensitive to combination skin, Skin Experts offers a transformation worth sharing.

regina read skin experts

While improving your skin is not always a linear process, there are still ways to make sure you are making progress. This can apply to any goal you may be thinking of setting for 2023.

“Break your goal down to smaller achievable chunks. A step by step approach give you balance, and you can give yourself small rewards along the way. It allows you to create multiple goals at a time and manage growth,” advised Spa Director Regina Read. “I also recommend seeking out a professional to learn more. Get feedback, consults, and research as much information as possible. This allows support and more insight on areas of our lives where we are looking to grow.”

Skin Experts combine technology from Europe and Asia with carefully curated ingredients that work synergistically to help skin look fuller, fresher, and younger. The skin care includes natural ingredients such as rose extract, hyaluronic acid, probiotics, micro-algae, bakuchiol, and hemp seed oil. These may seem complicated but their lasting effects are quite simple. The ingredients create an uplifting natural aroma full of antioxidants and skin-refreshing properties, draws and maintain moisture from the environment directly to the skin, creates conditions for the skin to look younger, healthier, and more even. They also combat the effects of the environment and digital devices to reduce signs of aging. They are filled with a gentle retinol alternative that gives antioxidant protection for a healthy glow, safe for sensitive skin, and are rich in antioxidants and fatty acids which may help protect the surface of the skin to hydrate and soothe skin. The products are always free of harmful sulfates, phthalates, toxins, artificial colors, GMOs, and artificial fragrance.

“We also offer lifestyle-friendly treatments. We have customizable facials for all skin types and lifestyles,” Regina said. “Getting in new routines of facials or peels that have days of downtime, irritation, or redness overtime can sabotage your long-term goals.”

Your lifestyle doesn’t just get in the way of how you treat your skin. When making a resolution this year, make sure the steps it takes to get there align with the nonnegotiable aspects of your life. Whether it is your work schedule, family commitments, children’s routines, you need to have a realistic plan for when to fit in the work on your goal.

New Ways to Stay Fit

The gym can be an intimidating place for those just starting on their exercise journey. Finding a place where you feel comfortable while doing exercises you enjoy is a great way to stick to a resolution.

Club Pilates is a new Pilates studio in Lincoln ready to open its doors this upcoming March. Pilates is a core exercise. It strengthens your core muscles which help with balance, flexibility, and strength. Club Pilates will offer classes seven days a week so they can fit into your schedule. With instructors who are nationally certified, they will help you achieve your New Year’s goals!

“Many times, we set resolutions for the New Year and then think if we miss one or two sessions, we have failed and give up,” owner Christine Krueger said. “Give yourself a little grace. It's okay to miss a session or two, just get right back in there when you can. Consistency is key for any health oriented goal.”

Pilates is a growing exercise modality that has been around for many years. In its infancy, mostly dancers and elite athletes used it, but as it has become more available, everyone can do it. It's low impact, so no pressure on your joints.

Club Pilates has several levels of classes, so if you are just a beginner, or an advanced Pilates master, they have classes that will fit your experience level.

“Even though we won't be open on January 1, give us a call to find out more about how Pilates can help you attain your fitness goals in 2023,” said Christine. “We have options for you to be able to begin with some classes virtually!”

These local businesses want to share their products and services with you to help you better yourself and reach your New Year’s resolutions. Go into 2023 with confidence and motivation, and make it your best year yet!

Locations

North Lincoln (402) 477-3110

South Lincoln (402) 261-4739

Beatrice (402) 228-9292

Nebraska City (402) 873-5151

Fairbury (402) 729-2639

Christine Krueger Club pilates

As 2023 approaches, many businesses are beginning to prepare their business plans for the year. The new year brings new opportunities, and it’s important to be prepared. Having a business plan provides you with a roadmap that will help you achieve your business goals and take advantage of those new opportunities.

After talking with business experts in the Lincoln area, we recommend that you add professional coaching to your agenda this year, in addition to the professional advice of financial gurus. Of course, annual business plans must be flexible enough to adapt to unexpected changes and the often-volatile marketplace—think COVID in 2020! Preparation for and execution of your annual plan reviews expectations from the previous year, then builds from there to give everyone in the company a sense of where the business is heading and how they intend to get there.

So, what is included in an annual business plan itself? Certainly, it must revolve around the ever-enduring SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound) goals that help businesses focus their efforts, increase chances of success, and ensure that they use their time and resources in the most productive ways possible. From there, a company can develop financial projections and budgets that take into account anticipated expenses and projected income—in addition to expected financing needs for the year. The plan also must outline responsibilities and expectations of individual employees, teams, or departments and the parts of the plan for which they are responsible and held accountable, to the degree that they can control. Rounding out the picture is an annual vision that maps out what owners or managers realistically want the business to look like at the end of the year. Continuing to tell your story through marketing is also crucial to stay up-to-date with the always evolving advertisement world.

The final pieces of the planning puzzle bring the projections, goals, and plan together with specific tools and processes that

those goals. It might sound like a lot of work, but it’s not nearly as much as you’ll eventually face if you fail to plan your business path and your work/life balance each year. It can help you stay on track and adapt to the unforeseen changes in the marketplace.

The first month of a new year is full of hope and motivation to make a change, whether it be in your own life or for your business. In Lincoln, we are lucky to have many local businesses and professionals dedicated to helping you navigate all of the twists and turns that come with making a plan that will survive and thrive throughout the new year. Keep reading to hear some invaluable advice from the experts around our city!

Leave Your Worries Behind

Going into the New Year feels a lot better without any extra baggage from the previous year weighing you down. This includes unfinished projects, postponed events, and unpaid debt. AR Solutions Inc. is a full service collection agency that is licensed, bonded, and insured in Lincoln ready to help you and your business transition into 2023 with nothing holding you back.

Aaron Newell, president and CEO of AR Solutions, shared some advice on tackling debt and creating a positive plan for the year.

“Really evaluate your business financials from the prior year(s),” shared Aaron. “Are you scaling as projected? If not, why and what can you do to change it? How does your percentage of accounts receivables compare to your industry standards geographically? Have your accounts receivables changed, remained the same, or grown in comparison to your gross revenue? AR Solutions can provide an analysis of your data and customer intake process to accelerate the payment of your past due receivables.”

AR Solutions has a division that specializes in medical collections, as well as other divisions that specialize in consumer collection and commercial collections. All fees from AR Solutions are contingent so there is no cost unless they get results for their clients. As Aaron says, “If we do not collect, we do not eat.”

“We often see businesses that assume they will always be paid for their service/product or be paid timely but that isn’t always the case,” Aaron said. “AR Solutions can offer solutions to correct that.”

AR Solutions exists to provide the most professional, ethical, and innovative accounts receivables collection solutions for their clients. You can count on them to help your business make 2023 your best year yet!

Reach New Heights

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank (Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.) provides customers the services that they need to achieve. Derek Wiedenfeld, commercial real estate loan officer, shared his tips for creating a successful year for you and your business.

“Set goals for 2023 that align with your company’s vision and long-term goals. It is important to review those goals quarterly to hold you accountable and make any adjustments that are needed throughout the year,” advised Derek. “Keep yourself and employees motivated while trying to reach those goals and don’t forget to celebrate reaching milestones along the way.”

Derek’s services can be useful for those looking to expand this year. Lincoln Federal Savings Bank has commercial pad sites

Aaron newell Ar solutions

derek wiedenfeld

Lincoln federal savings Bank

As the markets continue to change, it’s important that your business is prepared. There are methods and tools that you can use to avoid turmoil down the road.

“Stress test your business! It is important to understand if your business can operate as normal with higher volatility in the market,” said Derek. “Test your business income against higher interest rates which could increase your loan payments and project lower than anticipated sales/rents and higher expenses to see if you would still be profitable. There may be smaller profit margins in 2023 so make sure to set up a contingency plan.”

While many of your business’s goals may not involve financials, Derek and the team at Lincoln Federal Savings Bank can help you. With anything from securing commercial real estate financing to offering great small business checking and savings accounts!

“Interest rates on deposit accounts have been increasing. Pairing a checking account with a loan at the same bank can have some benefits,” Derek explained. “When you have all of your accounts in the same place then it’s easier to keep track of your assets and manage your accounts. In addition, opening a deposit account may help you qualify for better loan terms.“

Find People to Lean On

Sometimes the best advice we can get is from people who have experienced the same things we are currently going through. Center Sphere is an established network of business professionals whose mission is to share referrals, ideas, and resources through genuine relationships.

“At Center Sphere we believe that relationships will always be essential in businesses,” said CEO and Co-Founder Brett Boyer . “Those who have built, and are continuing to build, relationships with others always have greater odds of accomplishing their goals. The best time to build a network was ten years ago, the second best time is NOW!”

While creating a support system and learning from experienced peers can be a great help, the world of business is ever changing. Many obstacles you may run into are products of the time, and many people may be experiencing them for the first time along with you.

“The scope of business has changed dramatically over the past few years, and will always evolve,” Brett explained. “Making sure you understand how those changes have affected your business and your plan for it is important when reviewing and setting goals for 2023.”

As we all have been affected by rapid inflation and rise in cost of doing business, Center Sphere offers an extremely cost effective way to budget your marketing expenses throughout the year. They believe in increasing their value add for members while keeping the point of entry at a minimum.

If you’re looking for a great start to hitting your goals in 2023, take advantage of all Center Sphere has to offer!

Remember to Breathe

While New Year’s resolutions can help people fix areas of their lives that need a tune-up, it is important to remember that there is no special magic that makes your wishes come true when the ball drops. Resolutions and goals are completely driven by how badly you want to make

for People Who Work

Brett Boyer Center sphere

Bethany Arnold edward Jones

the change. Trying to change too much at once can hinder the ability to succeed at any of your goals.

Bethany Arnold , financial advisor at Edward Jones , emphasized this sentiment when sharing her thoughts on the upcoming year for businesses.

“Don’t take on too much, and don't feel bad for taking on just one or two goals,” said Bethany. “Sometimes more than that is too overwhelming and then none of them get done.”

Edward Jones financial advisors are built to deliver personal service that fits you and your business’s needs. Your needs will evolve throughout your life, and they strive to provide the products, solutions and experiences to help you achieve what's most important to you at every point.

“Whether it is taking advantage of the few gifts the government has to offer you and/or your business, or simply helping you understand the basics of investing, we are here to work with you hand and hand at whatever life stage you are at,” Bethany shared. “According to SCORE’s 2019 article “Small Business Retirement – Investing in Your Future,” 40% of business owners are not confident they’ll be able to retire before the age of 65. We know the events of 2020 impacted many people’s lives and, in some cases, their plans for retirement. Helping a business owner decide which retirement plan is best for their business and understanding how that plan can benefit themselves as well as their business is something we are experts at!”

Overall, Bethany and her team at Edward Jones want to remind you to take it slow and steady. Give yourself the grace to make mistakes and have bad days. If you strive to be even 1% better than you were yesterday, you are setting yourself up for success.

Don’t Miss the Small Stuff

Taxes can throw a huge wrench into your plans if you neglect to take care of them throughout the year. Having someone in your corner to guide you throughout the year can boost the likeliness that you are handling your business in the best possible way.

Lutz can provide a full-service approach to your business needs with services like tax planning, assurance services, technology support, retirement plan management, and much more.

Justin Korth , tax director at Lutz, spoke to us about how 2023 is looking for business owners and how they can make the most of the year. He shared three things that business owners should look out for when it comes to this year’s taxes:

R&D capitalization – As the rules stand today, U.S. research and development/ experimental costs must be capitalized and amortized over a five-year period, whereas historically, a business could deduct all expenses in the year incurred. For software development and manufacturing companies or others that have similar costs, this may cause a significant addback to 2022 income.

163j interest limitation – 2022 is the first year that depreciation and amortization are not an addback to the 163j interest expense limitation. For businesses subject to these rules, this may cause an increase in 2022 taxable income. With rising interest rates, this is an area of focus for real estate businesses. Tax planning and certain elections can help offset the impact of these rules.

Bonus depreciation – Starting in 2023, bonus depreciation falls to 80% from 100% over the past several years. While Section 179 expensing is still available, it is limited for certain businesses, especially those with losses or significant capital expenditures.

Justin Korth

Lutz

Have a Bank on Your Side

We all know that there isn’t a big reset button that starts the New Year off on a clean slate. In order to be truly prepared for the year to come, business owners must start planning before the clock strikes midnight on January 1.

West Gate Bank is prepared to jump into another year helping businesses be successful and achieve their greatest dreams. They can’t do it on their own, though.

“My advice for businesses is to start planning early and check-in often on progress. Running a business requires deliberate planning and getting crystal clear on goals/objectives to accomplish. Know your numbers, be proactive, and surround yourself with the best. Know exactly what you are earning, saving, and spending. Look for ways to improve cash flow, increase savings, boost revenue, and put profit first,” shared Lindsey Kirkendall, assistant vice president, business banking solutions. “With 18 years banking experience and linking arms with businesses on financial initiatives, it is important to surround yourself with a network of professionals that support current goals or determine next steps on how to get there in 2023. We have several local connections we know, utilize, trust, and can recommend to you!”

As for how 2023 is looking, Lindsey had some knowledge on what to expect and how to handle the upcoming obstacles that the year may bring.

“The rate environment is ever-changing. Secure deposits at a competitive interest rate and understand that lending efforts for banks are likely to be more conservative,” said Lindsey. “Proactively plan, set SMART goals, and have a banker and bank on your side!”

Work with Experts Who Care

Getting advice from your peers can be a great tool, but finding an expert that can see your goals and help you realize them takes things to another level.

Fiserv enables money movement for thousands of financial institutions and millions of people and businesses. They help you make smart decisions and set realistic goals financially. We spoke to National Senior Sales Advisor Dan Rau , who everyone knows as Rowdy, to learn more about the services Fiserv has to offer, and the bits of advice you need to take your business into 2023.

“My greatest value add to a business is my vast network and expertise and experience in Financial Technology (FinTech) solutions,” explained Rowdy. “My income and success is directly connected to the growth and success of my clients and portfolio. My network allows businesses easier opportunities to build long lasting partnership and vendor relationships.”

Finding the small ways that could be saving your business money is one of the things Rowdy knows best. He shared a tip with us for businesses headed into the New Year that are trying to save an extra buck.

“Businesses now more than ever can gain back all, some, or none of their fees with merchant processing,” Rowdy said. “Merchant processing fees are tax deductible operating costs, so passing the 3-4% fee to customers when inflation is set this time at 7.7% allows the business to increase deductions while paying less or zero in merchant processing fees.”

Lindsey Kirkendall west Gate Bank

dan rau fiserv

One thing Rowdy expressed is something that everyone can take with them into the New Year.

“I will end with a quote from Muhammad Ali, ‘Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth,’” shared Rowdy. Remember to take care of the people around you this year!

Think About the Bigger Picture

FNBO has worked with numerous businesses over the years to assist them with their growth and transition plans. They believe their experience can help a business build a team of advisors that will work cohesively with the client and help them achieve their goals.

When people talk about the future, many bring up five or ten year plans, whether it is for themselves or their company. The big picture is important, but the steps you have to take to get there can make or break your goals.

“I believe it is important to set both big and small goals for 2023, regardless of the size of your business. The big goals will give your business the guiding, overall direction that you would like to take your company. The smaller goals let you build a road map that can help you achieve the larger goals,” shared Thomas Klein , senior advisor, community banking. “It is important to review these monthly, and a good time to do it is when you review your monthly financials. Take a moment to review the prior month while also looking at your goals and comparing your targets. It’s okay for your goal’s “road map” to change from time to time, but it’s best if you are able to recognize the change and adjust goals as needed.”

On top of setting the groundwork for the plan, you have to make sure every step is completed in a thorough, solid way so that you don’t have a structure that eventually crumbles.

“I think that it is easy for businesses to react and make their best effort at handling the most pressing issue at the moment. However, I would stress not to overlook the value of building relationships and taking the time to discuss goals and look ahead,” Thomas said. “It’s too easy to put that off until later, but planning and forethought pay off in the long run.”

Thomas also spoke on a business concern that is on the rise going into 2023.

“We continue to see a rise in businesses that have experienced fraud or other types of email scams. FNBO can work with businesses to help them avoid many of those circumstances and mitigate some of those issues to make them less vulnerable,” Thomas said. “Benjamin Franklin’s quote still holds true, ‘If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.’”

Get Set Up for Success

SP Group, PC prides themselves on developing deep and long-lasting relationships with their clients. They don’t want to be considered just a tax advisor, but as an extension of their organization. They truly want to learn about their clients’ businesses, lives, and goals, both professionally and personally. By working with clients closely in making sure there is a clear vision for the future, they provide their clients with the services they need to achieve success and meet their goals.

“SP Group’s biggest value with businesses is our year-end tax planning services. We work

closely with a business to make sure they know what to expect for tax payments and how to most effectively spend money before the end of the year,” said Team Accountant Kevin Rademacher. “It is important to us that business clients and owners have a clear vision of their overall tax picture before the end of the year. We can also help work through retirement savings and different plans that might be helpful to the owners and employees to maximize savings and minimize taxes.”

Tax credits related to COVID have been winding down each year, but businesses should make sure to take full advantage of any credit available to them.

“Tax years 2022 and 2023 might not have as many tax changes as in the past, but going forward, taxes could change with parts of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 expiring in 2024,” explained Kevin. “Businesses could work with us to see if doing specific items in 2023 makes sense before deductions expire in 2024. The tax year of 2023 could be a major year to make sure everything is working smoothly in your business before more changes start happening again in the future.”

Learn How to Grow

Your business benefits most from you simply doing whatever you do best. Leave the rest to experts that can help take the weight of things like finances and taxes off your shoulders. At Union Bank & Trust (UBT), they have people who are experts in so many different areas that may affect your business. Whether it be specific HR function outsourcing, recruiting, treasury management services, estate and succession planning, or planning for specific acquisitions/ moves, UBT has experts on staff ready to help.

Many business goals revolve around growth, and it takes money to do just that. While you may just think of a bank as the place where you put your money, there are more ways to utilize a bank’s services. They can be just as responsible for the success of your projects and goals as you are.

thomas Klein

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Kevin rademacher sp Group, pC

Solutions to help your business do more.

“Any business, large or small, needs to have the equivalent of ‘a board of directors.’ Don’t be afraid to leverage your bank, CPA, or other experts within the community and surround your company with experts in specific areas,” explained TJ Casady , vice president, commercial loans. “We all have blind spots and sometimes it’s important to be humble enough to ask questions and bring people of diverse backgrounds around your table to make your business as strong as possible and positioned for the future.”

Sharing your business goals for the upcoming year with your bank can ensure that you and the bank are in sync, and the bank is fully prepared to assist you with any growth goals.

Research Your Resources

Setting goals for the upcoming year can only go so far if you are unwilling to accept change. It is important to be committed to your company’s process and environment, but allow some room for innovation and growth. If the way you are doing something is hindering your ability to reach a goal, don’t change the goal. Find a new way to get there.

With FNIC Group , they believe the smallest changes to a process can have the biggest impacts. They will keep a careful eye on your business’s insurance coverage to uncover possible improvements.

“At FNIC, our process is simple. We study your current insurance policies to pinpoint potential gaps in coverage and educate you on how your policy works,” said Sales Executive Ramon Diaz de Leon. “Understanding your policy can help you make informed decisions on risk retention vs risk transfer.”

Ramon also pointed to the option for businesses that may need extra help from a resource like a workers’ compensation carrier.

“Before joining the commercial insurance team at FNIC, I worked for a workers’ compensation carrier that specialized in small to mid-sized, labor-intensive businesses. I have seen the amount of resources available that are often overlooked. Many carriers provide help with weekly safety meetings, ideas for return to work programs, and strategies for experience rating containment to share a few,” Ramon explained. “Spend time with your insurance agent and see how their organization can also help you with these items. Having these types of processes in place will not only help you in controlling insurance costs, but will lead to the development of a culture of safety within your business. The resources are out there. Start today!”

FNIC is ready to help you implement your processes and coverages in 2023!

Stick to the Plan

Studies show that 91% of people don’t achieve their New Year’s resolutions every year. Most people either forget, abandon, or never even start their resolutions for the year. This could be avoidable with someone there to hold you accountable. Someone who makes sure you are reaching your best potential.

MAPS Business Coaching offers training to thousands of people every month and coaches business owners and entrepreneurs in weekly one-on-one sessions.

“If you don’t have a relationship with your goals, they mean nothing. You need to know where you were at with your goals last year, and how you will get there now,” shared local franchise Owner Donald Kracke. “As a business coach, I hold clients accountable to what they want and what they say they’re going to do.”

Donald helps his clients by using models and systems such as the economic model, the budget model, organizational model, and the lead generation model. These help him show the client what should be important to them to be able to reach their goals in a smart way.

donald Kracke mAps Business Coaching

“Business owners need to focus on the top 20% of what makes them money. By doing so, everything else becomes irrelevant. 20% of your activities generate 80% of income,” said Donald. “Don’t get caught up in the weeds. You can only do so many things well. Multi-tasking is a myth!”

MAPS Business Coaching helps businesses bring clarity to the different facets of business they have to deal with. The benefits are endless, and there are no limits to what you can accomplish with this kind of support!

Don’t Forget Us!

Of course, if you want to increase your visibility in 2023, we also recommend contacting Strictly Business . We are a contentmarketing magazine that partners with business owners to position them as experts in their fields, combining compelling paid advertising with free press releases, feature inclusions, and social media coverage about your business every month! Don’t worry if you don’t have a marketing professional on your staff because Strictly Business has free design services for your ads and free research and writing for your press releases and stories.

In recent years, content marketing has evolved from being just blog post and editorial strategies. It has become a holistic approach that relies on a broad range of digital marketing strategies including social media, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), and paid media to engage businesses with their customers and potential customer. At Strictly Business, our goal is to help your visibility skyrocket and not only draw new customers or clients to your business, but also help them understand why they can trust you and depend on you to do the best work possible for them. Call Paige at (402) 466-3330 today and find out how we can help you grow your brand in 2023!

Annual business planning is essential to the health of any company or organization. It’s more crucial than ever that you have a strong base and mission from which to plan, as well as access to the expertise to help ensure you’re on track for success. We encourage you to reach out to the experts featured here to plan in a timely, meaningful, and successful way. From all of us at Strictly Business, we hope you and your business have a wonderful year!

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Nebraska Diamond | Lincoln, NE

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tJ Casady Union Bank & trust

For over 20 years, Domesti-PUPS has been supporting people in our local, regional, and national communities through the assistance of animals. From therapy dogs in the classroom motivating children to pet therapy visitations in nursing homes, hospitals, and assisted living centers, DomestiPUPS pet therapy teams bring a bit of brightness through their furry encounters. The organization’s service dog teams provide increased independence when paired with a disabled partner. These highly-skilled canines can turn on lights, provide balance and mobility, retrieve dropped items, bring a bottle of water from a refrigerator, respond to medical emergencies such as a seizure or a diabetic high or low, and open doors both literally and figuratively. Some even provide lifesaving measures for their disabled partners. Learn more online at www.domesti-pups.org.

More than 11,000 Nebraskans will be diagnosed with cancer this year. The Heartland Cancer Foundation’s mission is to provide practical and immediate financial assistance to eligible cancer patients in our community so they can focus on what matters most: healing.

Support our mission by joining us on Saturday, March 4th for the 8th Annual Mardi Gras Gala at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel. This is the Heartland Cancer Foundation’s largest annual fundraiser and raises critical funds to support cancer patients in Nebraska.

This incredible evening will feature interactive audience entertainment, a silent auction, live auction, bourbon pull, delicious food, and lively Mardi Gras flair!

Sponsorship opportunities of every size and for every budget are now available. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity for your business to get exposure, attend a spectacular event, and make a difference for local cancer patients.

Learn more and get involved at heartlandcancerfoundation.org.

Child Saving Institute was founded in 1892 and has been dedicated to the needs of children and families in the greater Omaha area for over 130 years. The mission is "responding to the cry of a child", but it is the vision that guides us as we work to give the children we serve safe, happy childhoods. CSI's vision is that "all children have homes where hope is kindled and dreams can be achieved".

CSI’s programming is diverse, but so are the needs of today’s children and youth. Services address the need for early childhood development and high-quality childcare which we offer through our early childhood education program at our two Omaha childcare centers. Other services offered focus on the prevention, intervention and healing from child abuse, neglect and trauma. Programs include in-home support for families struggling to stay together, foster care, mental health services including therapy and medication management, parent support and education programs for young and expectant parents, an emergency shelter for youth temporarily displaced and who have nowhere to live, and adoption services for older children and youth in foster care.

With your support, CSI continues to serve more than 2,500 kids and families each year and touches thousands more, improving children’s lives and helping them discover the joy of childhood. For more information, visit childsaving.org or call (402) 5536000. Stay connected with CSI by following the organization on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

The Leadership Harbor Foundation was created to help Leadership Harbor add value to, serve, and recognize in five distinct areas:

CALM; Suicide & Bullying Awareness and Prevention - both are topics of importance to the team at Leadership Harbor. The Foundation allows us an avenue to provide these trainings and workshops at no direct cost to the hosting organization.

Veterans - grants and donations to the Foundation allow us to provide programs and Coaching to Veterans at reduced or no-cost. Coach Patrick has a passion for serving this important population as they seek to transition from service to civilian life and all that is encompassed by this.

Youth Leadership - contributions through the Foundation allow us to invest in the youngest of leaders. From Scholarships so youth can participate in Leadership Development to providing our Maxwell Leadership Global Youth Initiative (GYI) events every April and October.

Education - through the Educator of the Month program, iLead, and Values based Leadership curriculum, we will focus on helping students, educators, and administrators in transforming communities.

Scholarship - contributions through the Foundation allow us to invest in those who want to develop their potential, and need a little financial boost to get them started.

The Pregnancy Center is a nonprofit, faith based organization located in the heart of Lincoln just off O Street. Every month over 400 young women in our community come to the Pregnancy Center for answers. These women desperately need our love and support. Many of them are afraid and feel like they have no options. The Pregnancy Center offers complete information about every option available to a woman facing an unintended pregnancy. The Pregnancy Center also provides confidential counsel, pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, materials support, parenting classes and character-based relationship education in schools all at no cost to our clients or taxpayers. Learn more at pregnancycenterlincoln.org.

Memories For Kids is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization with a mission to create lifelong memories for children who have a parent with stage IV cancer. Families who receive a memory are able to take a break from the daily rigors of cancer and spend time having fun and enjoying each other. The unfortunate reality is that for a child with a terminally ill parent, the final months of hospitalizations and decline are filled with disappointments and sad memories. MFK helps kids be kids and briefly relieves the sadness of living with a terminally ill parent. For more information, call (402) 889-5797, or go to memoriesforkids.org.

It has been proven both scientifically and by observation that horses and humans have a unique emotional bond. That bond is a big factor in healing from emotional trauma and finding our confidence, and DreamCatchers: Strength Through Horses is here to support individuals by sharing our love of these magnificent creatures. Our Director, Jodi Freeman, is a Certified Peer Support Specialist with lived experience in grief, depression, anxiety and emotional abuse. She offers one-on-one sessions with individuals, helping to guide them on a path of emotional well-being. Group sessions are available for agencies offering psychoeducational support. Additionally, we offer “Trail Ride Academy”, an all around horse experience for teens and adults, ages 13+. We accept sponsorships for clients who are unable tom afford the cost. To learn more about the experiences DreamCatchers offers, email info@dreamcatchersride.org, or join our VIP email list by emailing info@dreamcatchersride.org with the subject “VIP Opt In”.

Based in Lincoln, nonprofit Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska is part of a whole-person healthcare organization across 13 states in more than 700 communities serving people with intellectual and developmental needs. Mosaic’s purpose is to “love and serve,” and its mission is to “embrace God’s call to relentlessly pursue opportunities to empower people.” The values woven through Mosaic’s work are Belonging, Connection, Faithfulness, and Grit.

At Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska, “to empower” means providing truly personalized services to those it supports to achieve their best or most meaningful life; working with them and their families to create closer ties to the community in order to open up volunteer and employment opportunities; and Mosaic standing alongside them to advocate with and for them to bring awareness to issues that affect their lives and promote public policy that positively impacts them.

This empowerment of people ranges from helping someone communicate for the first time to helping another gain enough independence to secure a job and live in their own home. If you would like to learn more about Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska's services, to donate, volunteer, or inquire about employment, please go to mosaicinfo.org/southeastnebraska.

Since 1973, Humanities Nebraska (HN) has helped people explore what connects us and makes us human. As an independent nonprofit organization and state partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities, HN offers programming for everyone in the state, nurturing a more informed, thoughtful and just society. In 2023, HN is celebrating 50 years of connection by sparking curiosity during Humanities Week in October and all year long. HN programming includes a Speakers Bureau with more than 250 topics, the Nebraska Chautauqua summer history festival with scholars interacting with audiences as historic figures, Capitol Forum on America’s Future to engage high school students on global issues, the “Dear Stranger” letter exchange program, Museum on Main Street traveling exhibitions from the Smithsonian, the annual Governor’s Lecture in the Humanities featuring a prominent national speaker, Prime Time Family Reading literacy programs, Nebraska Warrior Writers workshops for veterans and active duty military, Nebraska History Day to inspire students in the process of discovery and interpretation of historical topics, and grants that enable other Nebraska nonprofits to produce their own programming that enriches their local communities.. For more information about booking a speaker, applying for a grant, or participating in any other HN programs, please visit HumanitiesNebraska.org or call (402) 474-2131.

Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska (DSAF) recognizes that every person with Down syndrome is an individual who has a unique purpose and set of abilities. For 25 years, DSAF has provided a positive vision for the future for individuals with Down syndrome and those who share in their lives, through networking, advocacy, and support, including:

Parents First Call—Offers support, education, and recommendations to new parents upon receiving a diagnosis of Down syndrome.

Medical Outreach—Provides training and accurate information regarding Down syndrome to local medical offices.

Age-Based ‘Stars’ Enrichment Groups—Opportunities for members, families, and friends to participate in fun, inclusive activities in our community.

Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk—A heartwarming all-ages experience for families, friends, and supporters of individuals with Down syndrome. The annual walk is DSAF’s biggest awareness and fundraising event!

DSAF is more than just an association, it is a place of belonging and hope. Get involved. Visit dsafnebraska.org or call (402) 421-1338 to learn more.

The mission of the American Red Cross is to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. The Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides emotional support to victims of disasters from home fires to major events such as hurricanes, floods, or tornadoes. About 40% of the nation’s blood needed by patients is supplied by the Red Cross. The organization teaches skills such as CPR and First Aid that save lives. Additionally, the Red Cross provides international humanitarian aid and supports military members, veterans, and their families.

Every day, the American Red Cross is active in the community, serving those in need. Visit redcross.org or call 1-(800) REDCROSS to support Red Cross efforts by volunteering, donating financially or giving blood.

Founded in 1932, Catholic Social Services (CSS) of Southern Nebraska is the charitable arm of the Diocese of Lincoln, serving all individuals regardless of faith in the southern third of Nebraska. Their services cover 24,000 square miles and touch the lives of nearly 30,000 people annually.

Catholic Social Services provides food market and meal services, emergency services—which include rent and utility assistance, disaster relief, refugee, and immigration services—St. Gianna Women’s Homes (a program for women and their children escaping violence and domestic abuse), and a Clinical/Family Counseling program which provides psychological services. Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska has offices and Gift & Thrift stores in Lincoln, Auburn, Hastings, and Imperial. To connect, donate, or volunteer with CSS in bringing Hope in the Good Life, visit www.csshope.org or call (402) 474-1600.

The Foundation for Lincoln City Libraries was formed in 1954 to provide annual support for the programs and services provided to our residents through Lincoln City Libraries. This private funding upholds and enriches the values of this community resource that longtime residents have come to know and appreciate, and newcomers can’t wait to experience. Libraries are so much more than books in today’s world. Free computers and Wi-Fi allow patrons to apply for jobs. Students receive help with their homework through online programs. Seniors utilize library resources to research genealogy. There is something for everyone! Lincoln is a community that values education and our libraries are part of that! This support is only successful because of volunteer involvement and public support through the foundation. For more information to donate or volunteer, please visit foundationforlcl. org, email foundationforlcl@gmail.com, or call (402) 441-0164.

Christian Businessmen’s Connection (CBMC Lincoln) is part of a global network of men in the marketplace who want to develop personally, professionally and spiritually. These are men who aspire to honor God in their businesses and work. CBMC encourages men to connect with Christ and with others who are growing and discovering how to represent Christ in life and work. CBMC offers one-on-one mentoring, challenging growth groups, leadership development, networking, and events throughout the year. They also serve business owners and leaders through Peer Advisory Groups, geared to equip members to lead lives and businesses which honor Christ, and serve the community. Young Professionals (YP) groups offer opportunities for men from all areas of the workplace to engage with other YP’s as well as learn from senior leaders and business owners. When men connect with CBMC, they become part of a trusted band of brothers who are there to provide support and encouragement.

To learn how CBMC Lincoln can serve you, please contact CBMC Lincoln at (402) 204-1997, connect with them on Facebook (@ cbmclincolnne) or visit Lincoln.cbmc.com.

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease where a person’s pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone needed to get energy from food. T1D strikes children and adults suddenly and is unrelated to diet or exercise; at present, there is no cure. JDRF works every day to change this reality. As the largest global funder of T1D research, JDRF’s mission is to improve lives today and tomorrow by accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat T1D and its complications. You can help make a difference by participating, volunteering or fundraising.

Events:

• JDRF TypeOneNation Summit – March 4, 2023 at Scott Conference Center

• JDRF Gala – April 22, 2023 at CHI Health Center Omaha

• JDRF One Walk – October 1, 2023 at Mahoney State Park Programs:

• Advocacy – Advocate for government support of research & policies for affordable & accessible therapies.

• Community Outreach – Educational resources and support for individuals & families.

• Community events – jdrf.org/nebraskaiowa

• T1D Connect – Partner with JDRF & organize a meet-up in your community

• Online Support Groups – jdrf.org/virtual-events

• Give Back at School – School education & fundraising opportunities.

• Ride – Destination cycling experience for all fitness levels.

• YLC – Young professionals raising awareness & funds for T1D. Learn more at jdrf.org/nebraskaiowa or (402) 397-2873.

"I think a hero is any person really intent on making this a better place for all people."

~ Maya Angelou

“I was sold for $60 and some meth. I was 15 at the time.” – A Lincoln survivor

This is the jarring reality of sex trafficking in Lincoln. I’ve Got A Name has dedicated the last 10 years to protecting Lincoln’s youth and empowering survivors of this injustice to rebuild their lives.

As a recipient of Union Bank & Trust’s ‘The Big Give’, I’ve Got A Name will implement their Connect to Protect Initiative in the new year. The initiative will increase public awareness in Lincoln, provide a safe online environment for youth to seek help, strengthen their Street Outreach Team and develop a Men’s Movement.

On August 5, 2023, the organization will host its Connect to Protect Conference –– the first conference to specifically address sex trafficking in Lincoln among parents, youth and the general public.

To register, visit www.ivegotaname.org. To be a business conference sponsor, email Paul Yates at paul@ivegotaname.org.

People’s City Mission was started in 1907 by local churches, offering food and shelter for transient and impoverished men, women, and children. In 1987, PCM moved to their current location and now houses on average 350 men, women, and children nightly in their emergency shelters and the Curtis Center transitional housing program. The Help Center offers free clothing, housewares, and food to Lincoln’s needy, to aid in preventing homelessness. The Free Clinic offers quality dental and other services to the uninsured. As Lincoln’s homeless shelter, People’s City Mission’s work is more than 97% funded by community donations. When you give a little, you can change a lot. Contact info@pcmlincoln.org or call (402) 475-1303. You can also visit www. pcmlincoln.org or @pcmlincoln on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for more information.

Voices of Hope provides 24-hour-aday services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, incest, stalking, and related forms of abuse. They have provided free and confidential services to victims of these crimes in Lincoln/ Lancaster County for 47 years. Their services include a 24-hour crisis line, (402) 475-7273, and victim advocacy at hospitals. Voices of Hope also offers support groups, crisis counseling, safety planning, assistance with protection orders, basic needs, and providing advocacy for students at all college campuses. They answer more than 8,000 crisis line calls a year and provide face-to-face services to approximately 2,200 unduplicated survivors. Their free and confidential services are available to women and men.

Voices of Hope is in need of financial donations, gift cards, gas cards, and donations of basic needs items such as personal hygiene items, household items, diapers and wipes, and office supplies. To learn more, visit www.voicesofhopelincoln.org.

ServeNebraska is the Nebraska Volunteer Service Commission working toward growing our state’s culture of community service and volunteering. The Commission facilitates AmeriCorps programming across the state, linking local nonprofits, governmental agencies, and other organizations with Nebraskans motivated to make a difference in their communities.

AmeriCorps grants are awarded to organizations in order to operate programs addressing a specific community need categorized under one of six AmeriCorps focus areas. Current Nebraska programs include Conservation Nebraska aiming to education Nebraskans on preserving our state’s natural beauty and College Possible focusing on coaching low-income students in the Omaha area.

The six AmeriCorps focus areas are education, environmental stewardship, healthy futures, veterans & military families, and disaster services.

The 2023-2024 funding opportunity opens on January 9! If your organization is interested in learning more about AmeriCorps impacts in Nebraska or discussing whether an AmeriCorps grant can help you reach your goals, visit serve.nebraska.gov/funding.

It is built, it is stunning, and it sits sturdy on the foundations of inclusivity, accessibility, sustainability, compassion, and engagement. The Benson Theatre is meant to be shared to serve all the missions of organizations who wish to positively impact the community and all who wish to be a part of the educational and creative experiences that will happen within its walls.

During the day, our facilities focus on providing educational opportunities that foster the success of artists, nonprofits, small business owners and underserved populations throughout the city.

During the evening, our facilities serve as a performance venue for collaborations with our community partners welcoming all artforms –comedy, dance, film, music, spoken word, theatre, visual arts and more.

The Benson Theatre recognizes the need for programming for kids, for older adults, and for those with specific needs.

Contact The Benson Theatre at (402) 991-4333 for rental fees and details about technology features, collaborations, and assembly. For more information, go to bensontheatre.org.

At Ease USA (AEU) is committed to providing access to confidential trauma treatment services to the brave men and women in uniform and scrubs who have given so selflessly and suffer from the impact of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). At Ease fills the gap left by the VA to also include family members.

AEU removes barriers and offers person-centered behavioral health services through an in-house clinical manager and a diverse Preferred Provider Network (PPN) of licensed mental health professionals who are trained in PTSD treatment. AEU utilizes many approaches, including family and couple’s therapy, one-to-one peer support, yoga, and group and one-on-one therapy, to address PTSD.

In addition to tailoring treatment to each client’s unique needs, honoring confidentiality, and removing red tape to provide timely urgent care, AEU is dedicated to confronting the stigma surrounding mental health.

AEU envisions a world where PTSD no longer exists, but until that day comes, we are committed to ensuring that Nebraska’s past and present military members, frontline healthcare workers, and their families who are impacted by PTSD have access to confidential trauma treatment. For more information, go to ateaseus.org.

As Nebraska’s industry-leading and award-winning senior care expert, Tabitha empowers people to live joyfully, age gratefully. Nonprofit Tabitha cares for and about older adults across the state, offering: results-driven rehabilitation; accessible at-home health care; innovative living communities; resourceful serious illness support; compassionate hospice care; and Tabitha Meals on Wheels (Lincoln). For all senior care needs, “Tabitha is the Answer.”

Tabitha welcomes civic-minded individuals to donate their time, talent, and treasure to help provide support to seniors. Find out how you can make a difference in the lives of local veterans, teachers, public servants, and community leaders who need a helping hand. Connect with Tabitha at Tabitha.org or call (402) 486-8520.

Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln has helped families build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership families like Manny, Van, and their four active boys who had been living in a crowded apartment that was not adequate for their growing family.

Habitat strives to help families like Manny and Van’s achieve homeownership through an affordable mortgage. Homeownership strengthens neighborhoods and improves the entire community. Children of homeowners have better success rates in school, and families are able to build generational wealth putting them on a path out of poverty.

The Junior League of Lincoln (JLL) is an inclusive organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving our community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. The Junior League of Lincoln currently runs community impact projects – Clothesline, HomeStart, and the JLL Diaper Bank - which foster the well-being of women and children in Lincoln through education, direct service, fundraising, and advocacy. The league’s goal is to create an environment which welcomes a diverse group of women; where all members feel connected to each other, to the JLL mission, and to the community. JLL provides significant training to all provisional, active and sustaining members which encourages them to make a unique, valuable, and lasting contribution to JLL and the community; and to ensure continuity of leadership and establish the JLL as a leadership development resource in the community. For more information visit jll.org.

Habitat Lincoln has partnered with more than 184 local families, serving more than 812 men, women, and children through the construction of new single-family homes, as well as simple and critical repair projects. Get involved at lincolnhabitat.org.

Hundreds of children and youth in Lancaster County are victims of abuse and neglect. Court Appointed Special Advocates or CASA for Lancaster County is local nonprofit that recruits, trains, and supports community volunteers who advocate on behalf of abused, neglected, truant or ungovernable children in Juvenile Court. CASA volunteers get to know the children and the circumstances and issues surrounding the family. They gather information and report their findings and recommendations directly to the judge. CASA volunteer advocates provide a voice for children in court, expedite permanency, share with the judge the needs and wishes of the children and ensure that children have safe permanent homes. Help us “Change a Child’s Story” by becoming a CASA volunteer or by donating today!

Angels Among Us provides financial and emotional support to families whose children are battling pediatric cancer. Any family living in or being treated in Nebraska is eligible to apply. Once approved, families are provided with $500 or $750 a month, depending on household income levels, for the length of their entire treatment plan, up to three years, to help them stay financially stable during treatment. Funds are paid directly to the creditor, which ensures that funds are used for their intended purpose.

In addition to financial support, Angels Among Us launched 11 emotional support programs to provide wrap-around services for all members of the pediatric cancer family. Programs for teens, kids, siblings, and caregivers; events for the family to attend together; and bereavement support services are now offered. Research has shown that, along with the financial toxicity many families experience during a cancer journey, there are PTSD-like symptoms that also appear within the family. These emotional support programs allow Angels Among Us to better fulfill its mission of BOTH financial and emotional support.

Since 2006, Angels Among Us has assisted over 620 families with over $4 million in support. There are angels among us. Will you be one? Gifts of any amount are welcome and encouraged. There is strength in numbers. There is also hope, help, and monetary relief. For more information, contact Angels Among Us at (402) 934-0999 or visit the website at www.myangelsamongus.org.

To volunteer, donate, or for more information, please contact CASA for Lancaster County at (402)474-5161 or www.casa4lancaster. org or Facebook @CASA4LancasterCo, and on Twitter @ CASALancasterCo.

Since 1978, Friendship Home has helped survivors of domestic violence find physical and emotional safety by offering possibilities to help change their lives when things are at their worst.

Friendship Home’s current facilities have expanded shelter options including transitional housing and single-family shelters and a variety of different crisis services.

Friendship Home offers emergency shelter in a communal shelter setting, apartments for families, and transitional living for families who need more time to rebuild their lives—free from violence. Friendship Home continues to empower everyone who comes through their doors to achieve safety, independence, and freedom from domestic violence.

Friendship Home is Lancaster County’s only safe, confidential emergency shelter for survivors of domestic violence and their children. Services include emergency and transitional shelter, as well as supportive services, through safety planning, crisis intervention, support groups, and mental health counseling. To access safe shelter and services, call (402) 437-9302. Learn more about Friendship Home online at friendshiphome.org.

Rejuvenating Women is a nonprofit organization providing hope and restoration to victims and survivors of human trafficking by empowering survivors to lead healthy and independent lives. They are committed to developing long-lasting relationships with the women who have experienced significant complex trauma. They raise awareness of human trafficking in Omaha and surrounding communities. Their team of dedicated staff and volunteers invest in the lives of each individual living in the residential home as well as those participating in other programs and services that they offer. Providing survivors with knowledge, tools, and support empowers them to heal from the past and thrive in the future. Rejuvenating Women’s short and longterm residential recovery program is free-of-charge to survivors.

Rejuvenating Women has expanded their mission to reach the most vulnerable to trafficking and sexual exploitation—children under the age of 18. The Restored Wings Ranch will soon be a resource for youth in our community, at risk of and experiencing human trafficking and sexual exploitation. The Ranch will be a home for healing in a safe and compassionate private environment. Housing, education, therapy and therapeutic use of animals and land are part of the programming developed for the youth home. Please donate to the Expansion Project at https://rejuvenatingwomen. org/donate/. Visit rejuvenatingwomen.org/restored-wings-ranch to learn more about the vision.

Brain injuries impact multiple areas of a person’s life such as cognition, memory, balance, emotional stability, relationships, and more. Currently, few resources and supports are available statewide to people living with a brain injury.

The Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska (an affiliate of the United States Brain Injury Alliance) is a dedicated provider of brain injury health information and support in the state. Incorporated in 2009, the organization’s mission is to create a better future for all Nebraskans through brain injury prevention, education, advocacy, and support.

The Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska (BIA-NE) works to bring about meaningful system change by building community support networks that help individuals and families across the state navigate life changes caused by brain injury.

Learn more about the Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska and its services by visiting https://biane.org/about/.

One of Lincoln’s largest nonprofit organizations focusing on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility is the YMCA of Lincoln. The Y has served the community for over 150 years— promoting positive values through programs that build spirit, mind, and body for all. Today, the Y serves the community with facilities in all quadrants of Lincoln through programs including swim lessons, YMCA Youth Sports, YMCA Camp Kitaki, after school programs, health and wellness offerings, and more.

While the names and program offerings have changed over the past 150 years, the cause remains the same—strengthening the community. As one of the country’s most storied nonprofits, the Y knows that lasting personal and social change comes about when everyone works together. Every day, the Y works side-by-side with their neighbors to make sure everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. For more information on the YMCA of Lincoln, visit YMCALincoln.org.

Since 1952, The Arc of Lincoln has been a resource for parents, schools, agencies, and individuals who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities. The mission is to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to promote and protect their rights and interests, while enriching the quality of their lives. They believe that all people deserve opportunities and to be contributors and influencers in their communities. One of the programs offered is The Arc Expeditions program, which gives individuals the opportunity to travel across the country with friends and volunteers for socializing opportunities and making of some very special life long memories. Arc of Lincoln also provides a trained Inclusive Education Lay Advocate to families who need support at IEP/ISP meetings, in addition to HUD Housing units that are managed through two DD Service providers here in Lincoln. The Arc of Lincoln continues to offer several different educational and social programs for all ages through a United Way grant since 1995. Current needs include advocacy and monetary donations for the most vulnerable in our communities. Questions can be directed to Jennifer Stuhmer, executive director, at (402) 421-8866 / director@arclincoln.org or go online to www.advocacypartnership.org.

With a dedicated and united front of staff and volunteers who help the homeless and near homeless find possibilities when things seem impossible, the vision of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is to defeat hunger and homelessness and restore hope! Serving lunch and dinner seven days a week, Matt Talbot is an inviting hunger relief and outreach center for those in need. In a typical year, Matt Talbot provides more than 100,000 nutritious meals to the hungry in Lincoln and nearly 40,000 outreach and homeless prevention services to the working poor and homeless such as housing, case management, drug and alcohol evaluations, RentWise classes, diversion, and help with obtaining vital identification documents. Most importantly, Matt Talbot provides beyond basic needs to embolden people to have hope. Matt Talbot has maintained a 4-star Charity Navigator ranking for nine consecutive years, received the Better Business Bureau Integrity Award for the nonprofit sector in 2013, and was recently recognized for transparency with a Gold Seal on their GuideStar Nonprofit Profile.

Contact Susanne Blue, MSW, executive director of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach, at (402) 477-4116 / susanne.blue@mtko. org, or learn more online at www.mtko.org.

"How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world."

~ Anne Frank

The Bridge Behavioral Health is a nationally accredited substance use treatment center. Their mission is to provide hope and a strong foundation for recovery through substance use treatment and behavioral health intervention. Since 1984, The Bridge has served as an essential part of the community’s safety net, providing compassionate support and treatment to people struggling with substance use and related mental health disorders. The Bridge offers a continuum of services including medically-monitored withdrawal, substance use and mental health respite, residential treatment, and outpatient counseling.

For more information, contact Taylor Brethouwer at tbrethouwer@ thebridgenebraska.org or visit thebridgenebraska.org.

Christian Record Services, Inc., located in Lincoln, is a ministry of compassion of the Seventh-day Adventist Church to children and adults who are blind, with nearly 18,000 members throughout the United States and in countries around the world. Our mission is to empower people who are blind to engage their communities and embrace the Blessed Hope.

Christian Record Services offers an array of services and programs, including Bible study lessons, books, magazines, and Bibles in audio, braille, and large print from a library of more than 2,000 titles. Members also have the opportunity to deepen social, educational, and spiritual connections through PhoneFaith, scholarships for higher education, and National Camps for Blind Children.

These services and programs are free of charge to people who are legally blind, regardless of spiritual beliefs or faith background.

For more information, visit www.christianrecord.org, call (402) 488-0981, or email info@christianrecord.org.

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. The sale of donated items in Goodwill’s retail stores remains the largest source of funding for its programs and services.

Goodwill recognizes that services provided by peer agencies prepare people served by Goodwill to better succeed in Goodwill’s employment programs. It is with this understanding that Goodwill provides funding to colleague agencies to help with their own programs that align with Goodwill’s mission of keeping willing workers employed and community resources maximized. To learn more, visit lincolngoodwill.org.

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives—devoted to saving people from two of the nation’s top killers, heart disease (No. 1) and stroke (No. 5).

Powered by millions of volunteers, global, and local collaborators, their goal is to equitably increase worldwide healthy life expectancy from 64 to at least 67 years by 2030.

Through events right here in Lincoln like the Heart Walk, Go Red for Women movement, and Heart Ball, the American Heart Association is making an impact. For more information, visit www. heart.org/Lincoln.

The Nebraska Chapter of Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF of Nebraska) is part of the world’s largest and oldest children’s youth ministry. Established in 1937, the global ministry has reached over 250 million children with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They are unique in that they focus specifically on elementary children ages 5–12. CEF of Nebraska’s Good News Clubs (GNC) are after school clubs during the school year that primarily meet in local public schools. During the summer, their 5-Day Clubs go where the children are—neighborhoods, homes, and parks.

Anyone who is interested in supporting the CEF of Nebraska can join the Harvest Club. In light of the gospel of Luke (chapter 10, verse 2), the Harvest Club is an opportunity to give $10.02 each month to financially support this ministry. In addition, Harvest Club members are encouraged to set their alarm for 10:02 (a.m. or p.m.) to earnestly pray for laborers serving through CEF of Nebraska each day.

CEF of Nebraska brings the gospel of Jesus Christ to children for an opportunity in which to make a life changing decision for Christ in a safe and loving environment. If you would like to know more, please contact Matt Anderson at matta@cefnebraska.org or call (402) 480-5515.

“My family’s wellbeing is better off after finding HopeSpoke and shaking the negative stigma around mental health.” – Parent of a HopeSpoke client

HopeSpoke inspires healthy futures for children and families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health care. Emotional issues and trauma are hard for anyone to overcome, especially for kids. When things feel hopeless, HopeSpoke can help.

HopeSpoke provides mental health services for individuals and families across the lifespan, including:

• Crisis and residential services

• Extended day treatment

• Outpatient counseling

• School-based therapy

Outpatient counseling is available in person or via telehealth to best fit each individual’s needs. Caring for children’s mental health since 1949, HopeSpoke continues to provide expert, innovative services to grow a community of happy, hopeful, healthy families.

For more information about HopeSpoke’s services, or to make a gift to support mental health for children and families, please visit www.hopespoke.org or call (402) 475-7666.

Through a growing grassroots network of volunteers who hail from every corner of the state, Nebraska Community Foundation unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving, and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska.

Headquartered in Lincoln with employees working from hometowns all across the state, Nebraska Community Foundation provides financial management, strategic development, donor education, and training in partnership with 1,500 volunteers serving over 275 Nebraska communities. In the last five years, 46,653 contributions were made to NCF and its affiliated funds. Since 1994, NCF has reinvested $463 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org or call (402) 323-7330.

Lincoln Medical Education Partnership is a leader in healthcare education, patient care, and behavioral health services through a variety of programs designed to meet community needs. These include the training of Family Medicine resident physicians and the delivery of exemplary patient care through the Lincoln Family Residency Program and the Lincoln Family Medicine Center, exposure to integrative medicine through Lincoln Medical Acupuncture, outpatient mental health and substance use counseling services for adults and children through Stepping Stones, the provision of training and technical assistance to help schools identify and assist students with behavioral health issues through School Community Intervention & Prevention (SCIP), and the delivery of expert medical care to pediatric patients in Lincoln’s hospitals through Lincoln Pediatric Hospitalists. To learn more about Lincoln Medical Education Partnership, go online to www.lmep.com or call (402) 483-4581.

Fresh Start has given a “fresh start” to over 1,800 women who were striving to live a better life. As a nonprofit transitional housing program for women, Fresh Start offers more than just a safe place to live. It’s a goalsbased program that empowers women to change their lives by recognizing and overcoming barriers to self-sufficiency. With Fresh Start, women 19 years and older who are experiencing homelessness for any reason have the opportunity to live in a safe, supportive environment for up to a year, affording them more time to focus on their long-term goals, address barriers, and enact change.

Donation Need: Laundry Detergent Get involved with Fresh Start by visiting their website at FreshStartHome.org or connecting on social media (Facebook: @FreshStartHomeLincoln; Twitter: @FreshStartLNK). To donate or volunteer, Contact Monica at (402) 475-7777 / monicaz@ FreshStartHome.org.

The Lincoln Children’s Museum invites children to create, discover, and learn through the power of play.

In 1987, a group of committed parents and educators came together to concept a hands-on learning Museum for children in Nebraska. A permanent Museum opened in December 1989 containing a dozen simple, handcrafted exhibits.

Now, the Lincoln Children’s Museum offers three floors and 23,300 square feet of interactive learning through numerous exhibits along with day and summer camps, and learning programs offered at the Museum and throughout the Lincoln community.

The Lincoln Children’s Museum is a member of the Association of Children’s Museums (ACM). ACM has nearly 200 children’s museums nationwide.

The Museum is a private nonprofit, 501(c)(3), and receives no city, state, or federal tax dollars. When you support the Lincoln Children’s Museum, you’re supporting a future of limitless possibilities to the children of Lincoln. To learn more, visit www. lincolnchildrensmuseum.org.

Lincoln’s foundation, Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF), works with donors who all share a fondness for this community and want it to be successful forever. The mission of LCF is to inspire our community to give, act, and lead. Their role as an organization is to help donors accomplish their philanthropic goals, support nonprofit organizations that improve our quality of life, and foster community collaboration to address challenges and opportunities.

Since 1955, LCF has been privileged to be part of many wonderful legacies by matching community needs with the passions of their donors. They serve as a faithful steward for many types of philanthropic gifts and help donors create lasting legacies of giving. The foundation currently manages more than $185 million in assets and has distributed more than $208 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of thousands of residents. Find out more online at www.lcf.org or by calling (402) 474-2345.

Did you know 1 in 26 people are diagnosed with epilepsy? Or that 1 in 10 people will have a seizure in their lifetime?

The Epilepsy Foundation , in collaboration with our community and network partners, connects the people, data, and resources needed to address challenging health problems associated with seizures and epilepsy — and promotes education, policy, research, and systemic change that will foster measurable and sustainable improvement for all people living with epilepsy.

We are fiercely committed to improving the lives of people with epilepsy. The Epilepsy Foundation Nebraska provides seizure alert monitors to those in need, responds 24/7 to information and referral requests through the Helpline, educates our community on Seizure First Aid, hosts support groups, promotes grassroots advocacy efforts, and holds local awareness campaigns throughout the year. Together, we are elevating the conversation around epilepsy and fighting the stigmas that persist around living with seizures.

Let’s END EPILEPSY TOGETHER! To learn more, visit www.epilepsy. com/local/nebraska.

TeamMates Mentoring matches an adult volunteer to meet with a student in grades 3-12 weekly to help them realize their strengths, develop hope for their future, and simply listen. Matches have fun together playing games, crafting, shooting hoops, or just chatting. Matches are made thoughtfully, based on common interests and the mentor’s choice of school and/or grade level. Visits last one class period and only take place at the school. TeamMates was started in 1991 by Dr. Tom and Nancy Osborne. Over the last 30 years, program outcomes have confirmed their belief that caring adults could help students—especially those with multiple life challenges—stay engaged in school, graduate high school, and pursue a post-secondary education. By providing unconditional support and encouragement, mentors help students expand their aspirations, develop visions for their futures, and realize their full potential. To volunteer or learn more about the organization, reach out by calling (402) 436-1990 or visiting LincolnTeamMates.org.

Aiding Angels is a local, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing FREE, professional housecleaning to the cancer heroes in our community during one of the most stressful times of their lives. A clean home and environment contributes to the welfare and recovery of patients.

Brenda Schwery, local business owner of Maid To Please, has provided free home cleaning services for years through another foundation where women with cancer are the only recipients. In response to an overwhelming number of requests from not only women, but also men and children, Brenda founded Aiding Angels. Now, the void is filled and the much-needed help is extended to everyone— men, women, and children regardless of financial status—going through cancer treatment or hospice due to cancer.

For more information on Aiding Angels, please visit www. aidingangels.com or contact Brenda at (402) 434-2472.

City Impact in Lincoln is a faithcentered nonprofit that empowers under-resourced communities through holistic youth, family, and neighborhood development. They aspire to be the best in the world at recognizing and encouraging the unique strengths of those they serve so that their leadership makes a lasting positive impact within the Lincoln community. Through core values of grit, empowerment, initiative, excellence, community, and radical candor, City Impact encourages transformation from the inside out.

Needs: Monthly mentors, weekly reading tutors during the school year, weekly faith program volunteers, sponsors or donations for kids’ store, and monthly program supporters.

For more information about City Impact, call (402) 477-8080 / info@cityimpact.org or visit www.cityimpact.org. Follow on Facebook and Twitter to stay connected.

“Poverty limits opportunity. We don’t.” Since 1965, Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties has been empowering people living in poverty to reach economic stability.

Community Action provides unique programs and services in four impact areas: Early Childhood Education, Homelessness Prevention, Financial and Family Well-Being, and Hunger Relief and Healthy Food Access. Just some programs include Head Start, which supports children from at-risk backgrounds and their families in building skills for success; Emergency Services, which provides rent, utility, and deposit assistance to those at-risk of experiencing homelessness; and the Gathering Place, which provides free hot, nutritious meals to anyone experiencing hunger in Lincoln.

The Branched Oak Observatory is a unique astronomical park located conveniently just 20 minutes from downtown Lincoln near Branched Oak Lake Recreation Area. Established in 2015, they offer a unique viewing experience and learning opportunity for young and old alike. The Observatory has a 30-student classroom, visitors center, and two buildings dedicated for viewing the night sky. Whether viewing the sun, the moon, or deep space star clusters and nebula, the Observatory’s staff of volunteers—amateur and professional astronomers alike—help to “Bring the Night Sky Down to Earth.” They hold monthly events called “Star Parties” that are FREE and fun for the whole family.

The Observatory also has a radio telescope to view the electronic spectrum of the universe, a SATCOM array for communications with the International Space Station and other satellites, a Cosmic Ray Detector, and *coming soon* an Earth Moon Earth EME array that will allow them to bounce radio signals off the surface of the moon and back to earth!

Please follow the Branched Oak Observatory on Facebook (@BranchedOakObservatory). If you would like more information, please email Matt Anderson at matthew@ branchedoakobservatory.com or call (402) 480-5515. Branched Oak Observatory is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Community Action has provided over 100,000 poverty-fighting services to over 17,000 individuals in Lancaster and Saunders Counties. To connect, call (402) 471-4515 or visit www. communityactionatwork.org.

The mission of the Nebraska Safety Council is simple: For more than 60 years, they have provided education and leadership to empower people to live safe and healthy. The Nebraska Safety Council’s comprehensive programs, training courses, events, and services are designed to improve employee care at a desk, on the production floor, behind the wheel, and off the job. Their unique Worker 360° approach provides integrated risk management to improve overall worker quality of life and positively impact an organization’s bottom line.

Members of the Nebraska Safety Council include organizations throughout Nebraska and surrounding areas, across a variety of industries. There is no one-size-fits-all option. Each company’s safety and well-being program is customized for their needs and size.

Demonstrate your commitment to employee safety and health by becoming a member of the Nebraska Safety Council. You will receive access to training, guidance, and resources to establish or enhance your safety and wellness programs and policies.

The Nebraska Safety Council provides leadership and resources for a safe and healthy workplace and community. To reach their team, call (402) 483-2511 or visit nesafetycouncil.org to learn more.

Youth for Christ Lincoln Area (YFC Lincoln Area) is a nondenominational, nonprofit organization reaching youth in the Lincoln community and surrounding areas. We engage youth through three ministries: Campus Life to teens in high schools and middle schools, Juvenile Justice to jailed teens, and Parent Life to pregnant teens. Through regular programming and special events, YFC Lincoln Area works with over 2,400 local youth with the goal of engaging them in a healthy relationship with God. Learn more online at www.yfclincoln.org.

For more than 50 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln (BBBSL) has been making matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and young people (“Littles”) ages 7-16 throughout Lincoln. Your support helps develop positive friendships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people. Bigs can provide new and inspiring opportunities for Littles to explore the community and learn skills that they may not have otherwise had an opportunity to experience.

Our unique community-based one-to-one mentoring is a national, evidence-based program, providing enduring, professionally supported match relationships with measurable impact. Our program offers support to matches year-round outside the classroom.

Summer should be fun and filled with new experiences, and Bright Lights provides all of that!

Serving K-8th grade students, Bright Lights provides energized, engaging, and fun summer learning opportunities. Their week-long, half-day, and full-day camps allow students to learn and create, master new skills, and build new relationships.

For summer 2023, camps take place June 5-9; June 12-16; June 19-23; June 26-30; and July 10-14. Camp topics include science, technology, math, art, literature, and music with most having a STEAM connection.

The full summer 2023 camp schedule will be available online in February, and registration will open on Saturday, March 4 at 8 a.m. at BrightLights.org.

Bright Lights provides Before Care and Lunch Care at some camp locations. Need-based scholarships are available. There is also an international experience for middle school students and a Camp Assistant program for high schoolers. Find out more about these opportunities at BrightLights.org.

Currently, BBBSL is in search of our next generation of Bigs! Mentors play an important role in helping young people achieve their full potential. Volunteer as a mentor or donate to support a match. Whichever path suits you, take the first step by visiting us at bbbsl.org or call (402) 464-2227.

Houses of Hope of Nebraska, Inc. was founded in 1962. Houses of Hope’s transitional residential halfway house program provides an alcohol/drug free transitional living environment for adult males who have completed primary alcohol/drug treatment who need additional support to return to independent living.

Touchstone is a highly structured short-term residential substance use treatment facility for adults (men and women), and is operated in a collaboration between Houses of Hope and CenterPointe. Touchstone offers services to address an individual’s substance use and mental health.

The Targeted Adult Service Coordination (TASC) program is a collaboration between Houses of Hope, Lutheran Family Services, Blue Valley Behavioral Health, The Bridge Behavioral Health, and Region V Services. TASC provides blended Intensive Community Services, Crisis Response Teams, Emergency Community Support for adult men and women and System of Care services for youth. Services are staffed 24/7 and serve both rural and urban areas. Find out more at housesofhope.com.

The Nebraska Statewide Arboretum (NSA) is a memberbased nonprofit that believes in grassroots efforts to achieve our mission, which is to plant Nebraska for healthy people, vibrant communities, and a resilient environment.

Our arboretum network is composed of more than 100 accredited arboretums and landscape stewardship sites spanning the state from Sidney to Omaha. Our goal is to “take the arboretum to the people” through these local gardens, and to help nurture them as places of beauty, demonstration and restoration.

Over the last 40 years of our work, we’ve seen that landscapes can have a dramatic impact on quality of life—they renew our environment, improve our health, increase social interactions, deepen our sense of place and provide opportunities for learning.

Above all, we see that ultimately it’s people’s lives that are changed—neighborly connections are formed, thriving business districts develop, and people commit to long-term stewardship, all through planting Nebraska.

Learn more about The Nebraska Statewide Arboretum at plantnebraska.org.

DON’T MISS OUT!

The Supporting Nonprofits feature is an excellent opportunity for your organization to promote your mission and the work you're doing in the communities you serve!

The next feature will be in the July 2023 issue. Please call (402) 466-3330 or email cemre@strictlybusinessomaha.com if you are interested in participating!