Strictly Business Lincoln - July 2023

MATT MELICHAR West Gate Bank

JEN MISENO Sun Valley Lanes & Games

ANNE WALLMAN ComPro

KATIE BOHLMEYER Lincoln Chamber of Commerce

TERRY CLARK Tac Payroll Solutions

RENEE PICKEREL Legacy Arbors

ALLO Means Business

Local business, big business, or small business, if you need reliable phone and internet connectivity, you need ALLO. Customized solutions to fit your needs with speeds up to 100 GIG, Hosted VoIP phone systems, and 24/7 support with local, same-day dispatch. We think it’s the right way to do business.

“ALLO’s Fiber Internet has definitely increased the productivity of our o ce. As a marketing company, the internet always has to be active and on, especially working with huge files day in and day out. We need that dependability, and ALLO is definitely there. We don’t run into lags. We don't run into the latency issues. It doesn’t vary throughout the day, weekends or during busy time periods. I would not hesitate at all to recommend ALLO to anybody.” — Steve

Maly

If your business relies on communication, rely on ALLO.

“As a marketing company, the internet always has to be active and on, especially working with huge files day in and day out. We need that dependability, and ALLO is definitely there.”

Steve Maly Founder Maly Marketing

What an Honor to Celebrate 30 Years!

It is crazy to think that this month marks 30 years for Strictly Business! Where has the time gone?

We are excited to celebrate 30 years and all of the fun memories that have come with our time here in Lincoln. Having started in Lincoln before expanding into the Omaha market, we have great pride in our community and the impact we’ve made.

Looking back, it is so hard to believe that it has been 30 years since the beginning of Strictly Business. We have embraced the changes that have come with time, as we now reach more readers than ever before with our eye-catching covers and strong internet presence. Our In the Issue email blast gains new subscribers all the time, as does our list of clients that take advantage of directly reaching readers with their news. What started out as a black and white news print is now a colorful magazine that accommodates approximately three times the number of local businesses. And we’re still growing! I can hardly believe it. With constant change and growth, I am especially thankful for the great team that keeps Strictly Business running. Though it has been sad to part ways with old employees, we couldn’t be more proud of them for stepping into a new stage of their life – close to 10 past employees now run a successful business of their own! Entrepreneurship is something I highly value, so I take great pleasure in helping promote those who start local businesses.

We take great pride in promoting Lincoln, making it our mission to be a source of information for the community. By making community members aware of the current news in Lincoln, we not only rally community support, but get to show our own support as well. One

great thing about Lincoln is that people are always consciously trying to support local businesses, something that hasn’t changed in our 30 years of businesses.

Watching small businesses grow and develop because of community support is one of my favorite aspects of Strictly Business. The success of local businesses is our top priority, so we can’t help but celebrate their success. Since the start of advertising with us, we have witnessed several small businesses thrive, with some even becoming large entities whose presence is known far beyond Lincoln. We wish the best for all local businesses, helping out in any way we can. We welcome new clients, regardless of if they are new or old businesses – it’s never too late to connect with the community. We are most proud, however, of our recurring clients, many of which have been with us for the past 20 years. We want to give a special thanks to those who have been with us for over 20 years: Overhead Door, ABC Electric, West Gate Bank, Union Bank, HBAL, DLA, Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, Lincoln Housing Authority, Legacy Retirement, Sun Valley Lanes, T.O. Haas Tire & Auto, John Henry’s Plumbing Heating & Air, Pioneer Printing, Kenl Inn, Tracy Body Shop, First National Bank, Rays Lawn Care, James Arthur Vineyards and Krueger Development! To all of our clients, we thank you for trusting us with your advertising dollars! Thank you to Nebraska Printing Center, a local printer who has printed our magazine all 30 years! That’s 360 issues!

To our readers, thank you for helping us support local businesses for the last 30 years. We hope you will continue to support local businesses, whether you find them through Strictly Business or elsewhere, and that you share with our clients that you saw their business right here at Strictly Business. It’s our pleasure to rally the Lincoln community together to support local businesses.

We take great pride in promoting Lincoln, making it our mission to be a source of information for the community.

TRADEGAMZ purpose is to connect students to careers and build the bridge between students, job seekers, professionals, businesses and colleges. They help students and job seekers explore different industries and career opportunities and learn directly from the pros already doing it. TradeGamz works with educators and professionals to share their knowledge and experience as it relates to their career. With professional insight, experience and education, students and job seekers will be able to identify their areas of interest and connect directly with their future career. While students are learning about their opportunities, they are simultaneously building their profile and resume through TradeGamz to prepare themselves to connect and apply directly with the professionals they are learning from. When students are ready, they will have the resources and opportunities to choose their next step, whether that be a college or directly to their career.

TradeGamz works with educators to give each student a unique learning experience to over 200,000 career options. Educators can use the platform to teach students about any career they are interested in and also see time spent learning about each industry. They can then provide students with supporting competitions in the classroom, guest speakers through local professionals and mentoring opportunities to enhance their experience.

In a recent survey, 89% of local professionals identified that they are struggling to find an engaged emerging workforce. TradeGamz works with professionals and businesses to share their knowledge and facilitate applications for available jobs and internships. By educating

the emerging workforce on all career options before they reach a higher education, they are more prepared to take the correct next step in their education whether that be a college or university or directly to a career that has been introduced to them by professionals or businesses. TradeGamz takes privacy and safety seriously and follows guidelines set forth by FERPA, COPPA and GDPR as it relates to collecting, storing, displaying and removing personal information.

PRODUCTION TEAM:

Director of Operations Cemre Lively – Cemre@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Art Director Derek Nosbisch – Derek@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Editor/Writer Shae Withington – Shae@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

SALES TEAM:

President/Sales Paige Zutavern – Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Publisher/Founder/Accounting Shayne Zutavern – SZutavern@Yahoo.com

A new way of helping every student and job-seeker find their path to a happy and successful career.

HorisunHospiceNameda“BestPlacestoWork”

Woods Aitken LLP, the Lincoln Journal Star and the Lincoln Human Resource Management Association, founders of the Best Places to Work in Lincoln list, announced that HoriSun Hospice has been named to the 2023 list in the medium company sized category.

The Best Places to Work in Lincoln program, which was started in 2013, recognizes local companies who, through a third party administered employee survey, rank their respective companies as being the best places to work. The areas surveyed are varied parts of employee life, including workplace environment, leadership direction, culture and management practices.

HoriSun Hospice was acknowledged for creating an enjoyable corporate culture and work environment that fosters personal and professional growth for its employees.

“When a business creates and encourages a welcoming place for open communication and collaborative work, it establishes an environment of excellence, trust, love and teamwork that ultimately benefits the individuals we serve” said Dr. Bob Bleicher, Medical and Executive Director of HoriSun Hospice.

HoriSun Hospice believes that hospice care affirms life. Their mission and promise to our community is simple – to provide the best care possible, 24 hours a day, seven days a week for all whose lives are affected by a life limiting illness or condition. Comfort, compassion and caring are our guiding principles. For more information about HoriSun Hospice, visit www.horisunhospice.com or call 402-484-6444. For complete details about the Best Places to Work in Lincoln, visit www.woodsaitken.com/bptw.

Mi Tierra Family Mexican Restaurant Celebrates Five Years

Mi Tierra Family Mexican Restaurant is celebrating five years in Lincoln! They started off in 2018 with their first location on Old Cheney Rd., and quickly became a spot for people to gather together and enjoy amazing food and tasty drinks with friends and family. They just recently opened their second location on Northwoods Dr. and have already seen huge success there.

Jesus Guitron is the chef and one of the owners of Mi Tierra. Through hard work and savings, Jesus made his first investment in 2001: he purchased a ticket to immigrate to USA. With just a few dollars in his pocket and without understanding the English language, Jesus came to Portland, Oregon. His first job was assistant cook at a Mexican restaurant owned by his uncle. For a year, Jesus worked full days with the sole purpose of saving money to help his family in Mexico. After several years of hard work, Jesus decided to make a second investment with his savings, and in partnership with his cousin and uncle, opened a new Mexican restaurant created with their own ideas and decor. Above all, the most valuable of Mi Tierra Mexican cuisine recipes came from their grandmothers, mother and ancestors which give great value to every dish.

At Mi Tierra Family Mexican Restaurant, you’re treated like family. Warm greetings, friendly smiles and quick services awaits you every time you come into the restaurant. With a broad menu that has something for everyone and refreshing margaritas and cocktails, you can’t go wrong. For more information, visit www.mitierralincoln.com or follow them on Facebook @mitierrarestaurantlincoln.

Altitude Motion Media Announces New Website Launch

Altitude Motion Media is excited to announce the launch of their new website. It has a lot of new features and an eye-catching new look. Some of the coolest features include: booking online, watching video demos, a meet the team section, brilliant portfolios, a blog and an extensive FAQ. With the last year spent making sure the new website would perfectly showcase their services and skills, Altitude Motion Media is pleased with the amazing finished product.

According to Owner, Ryan, “As our company has grown, so have the needs of our clients. We are excited to finally have a website that can meet the needs of our current and prospective clients. It’s our goal to help businesses create the content they need and stay ahead of the curve, and we hope that this new website will help us connect with them to do just that.“

Altitude Motion Media consistently provides the highest quality video production, podcasts, photography and drone services. Their services increase your potential to succeed by producing content that stands out while building on your brand and reputation. For more information, go to www.altitudemotion.com or get in contact with Altitude Motion Media at (402) 417-0678 or team@altitudemotion.com.

TFLC Encourages Rental Property Owners to Implement Smoke-Free Policies

Tobacco Free Lancaster County (TFLC) is ready to help rental property owners implement smoke-free policies.

If you are a rental property owner looking to save money, reduce fire risk, increase tenant satisfaction ratings and attract new tenants, implementing a smoke-free policy is the solution you’ve been searching for!

By going smoke-free, you can experience significant cost savings. Smoking can cause extensive damage to units, leading to expensive renovations and turnover costs. Eliminating smoking at your properties can save valuable time and money, allowing you to allocate your resources more efficiently.

Moreover, a smoke-free policy dramatically reduces the risk of fires. Smoking-related fires seriously threaten the safety of your property, its occupants and neighboring units. By promoting a smoke-free environment, you actively mitigate this risk and prioritize the well-being of everyone involved.

Implementing a smoke-free policy also has a direct impact on tenant satisfaction. Non-smoking residents often face frustration due to secondhand smoke infiltrating their living spaces, causing discomfort and potential health issues. By embracing smoke-free living, you create a healthier and more harmonious community, enhancing your tenants’ overall quality of life.

Ready to implement a smoke-free policy? Contact TFLC today for free technical assistance at info@tobaccofreelancastercounty.org.

Already have a smoke-free policy? Add your property to the SmokeFree Rental Housing Registry here: www.tobaccofreelancastercounty. org/smoke-free-rental-housing/. It’s FREE and enhances your visibility to prospective tenants searching for smoke-free properties.

Funding provided by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services/Tobacco Free Nebraska Program as a result of the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement.

For more information about Tobacco Free Lancaster County, go to tobaccofreelancastercounty.com

Red Way and Lincoln Airport Begin NonStop Flights to Five Major Cities

Red Way and the Lincoln Airport are thrilled to announce the commencement of inaugural flights from Lincoln, Nebraska to three major cities: Dallas (DFW), Atlanta (ATL) and Minneapolis (MSP) on June 16. Red Way expanded its network further on June 24, introducing nonstop flights to Austin and Nashville. The company continues to innovate the way Nebraskans fly with its leading-edge approach to providing air travel. Customers have been delighted with the service so far on the already launched routes of Orlando (MCO) and Las Vegas (LAS) and the excitement continues with the newest additions to the schedule. Red Way offers a full-service feel, but with an affordable price tag. Depending on the fare purchased, customers can expect to receive complementary light meals, snacks and beverages as well as excellent in-flight service. Flights are flown by Global Crossing Airlines, Inc. on an impressive and comfortable fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft. With a focus on customer satisfaction and comfort, the tour operator is aiming to make travel more accessible and enjoyable for all. Schedules extend until November 29 and are available for booking on goflyred.com.

Lincoln Airport and Red Way invite everyone to explore their websites to take advantage of special offerings and plan their travel accordingly. Visit goflyred.com and lincolnairport.com to learn more. Flights are public charters offered by GlobalX Air Tours, LLC and operated by Global Crossing Airlines, Inc.

JetSplash Announces Strictly Business Neighbor Special

JetSplash is excited to announce their Strictly Business Neighbor Special! Strictly Business readers get two whole months of unlimited washes for the price of just two washes, plus get discounted pricing for their third month and beyond. Memberships come with a long list of perks, including unlimited washes, a self-serve aftercare area, half-off upgrades and more. Don’t miss out on this amazing deal, starting now and running all summer long! Deals can be claimed by visiting JetSplash.com/strictlybusiness-neighbor-special or scanning the attached QR code.

As a locally owned business, JetSplash takes great pride in our community and the numerous other locally owned businesses in it. Since 2003, they’ve grown to seven locations—all built by local contractors—and they purchase local parts whenever possible. By buying and supporting local, they’re creating jobs, expanding the tax base and pumping profits back into the community. Now, JetSplash is helping our community and the business leaders in it shine even more by offering Strictly Business readers this exclusive deal.

JetSplash provides the best, most comprehensive wash (and hand-dry) in town – and they do it in a jiffy. They fly you through so you can fly away quick and clean (or you can fly away slower and clean by using their free vacs, free air and free mat cleaners after your wash). As a locally owned business, they are excited to bring the community more options and convenience for a speedy, spotless wash.

JetSplash takes pride in their community and strives to give back through donations and fundraising opportunities. For more information, visit jetsplash.com.

Southeast Community College Discovery Days, Career Days Begin in September

Prospective students and their families will have several opportunities to get a closer look at Southeast Community College (SCC) during the 20232024 academic year. The College’s Admissions Office recently announced its lineup of Discover Days and Career Days for the upcoming year.

Discovery Days schedule by campus, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., is as follows:

• Beatrice Campus:

• Monday, Oct. 9 | Monday, Nov. 6

• Monday, Feb. 12 | Tuesday, March 26

• Lincoln Campus:

• Friday, Sept. 29 | Friday, Nov. 17

• Friday, March 8 | Monday, April 15

• Milford Campus:

• Friday, Oct. 6 | Friday, Nov. 3

• Friday, March 1 | Monday, April 8

Career Days schedule by campus is as follows:

• Careers in Construction Day:

• Thursday, Sept. 21, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Milford Campus

• Careers in Ag Day:

• Wednesday, Sept. 27, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Beatrice Campus

• Automotive Career Expo:

• Tuesday, Oct. 10, 6-8 p.m., Lincoln Campus

• Careers in Manufacturing & Engineering Technologies Day:

• Wednesday, Oct. 25, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Milford Campus

• Powersports Career Expo:

• Tuesday, Feb. 6, 5-7 p.m., Milford Campus

• Careers in Technology Day:

• Wednesday, Feb. 7, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Lincoln Campus

• Careers in Transportation Day:

• Tuesday, Feb. 20, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Milford Campus

• Careers in Healthcare Day:

• Thursday, March 21 and Friday, March 22, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Lincoln Campus

SCC also offers individual tours, group tours and its virtual tour online. Registration information for all events can be found at www.southeast.edu/visitscc.

Professional Realty Group Number One in Sales Volume

in April

Professional Realty Group (PRG) is proud to announce that they were number one in sales volume in April. Because their award-winning team of realtors has extensive knowledge of the local market and can provide valuable insights into neighborhoods, schools and amenities as well as help buyers navigate the buying process, negotiate with sellers and ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed correctly, it is no surprise that they came out on top. Ben, their team leader, does an outstanding job on instilling a hard work ethic in his team and providing them with the tools they need to be successful. One of the biggest advantages of working with a local real estate agent on the PRG’s team is their knowledge of the market. They can provide you with information on current trends, such as which neighborhoods are up-and-coming or which areas have seen a recent increase in home values. This can help you make informed decisions about where to focus your search and what types of homes to consider. Additionally, your agent may have access to off-market properties or be able to provide you with early access to new listings, giving you an edge in a competitive market.

If you’re considering buying or selling real estate this year, Professional Realty Group would love the opportunity to meet and talk about how they can assist you in achieving those goals. PRG handles residential, commercial, leasing, investing and developing. For more information, visit prg-ne.com.

LIBA Foundation Announces Annual Golf Tournament September 1

LIBA Foundation is excited to announce that they will be hosting a golf tournament on Friday, September 1 at NuMark Golf Course. Check-in begins at 9 a.m. with tee time set for 10 a.m. Hole sponsors providing free games, prizes, food and/or drinks for the golfers will receive a sign with their company name at their designated hole and their logo on promotional materials at the event. All hole sponsors are non-exclusive.

Alcoholic beverages must be purchased through NuMark Golf Course. Each sponsor is responsible for making those arrangements prior to the tournament. NuMark Golf Course can be reached at (402) 488-7888, and LIBA Foundation can answer questions at (402) 466-3419. This annual fundraising event raises money for scholarships that are given to local high school students graduating from high school in Lancaster County that attend a college or university in Nebraska. Scholarships are awarded each May. This year, 12 scholarships were given by the LIBA Foundation.

The LIBA Foundation strives to educate, strengthen and support the Lincoln business community through youth education, charitable donations, entrepreneurial assistance and perpetuation of the Lincoln Independent Business Association. Founded in 1996, LIBA Foundation works to promote its mission through several projects, including sponsorship of Student Vote, contributing to the LIBA Foundation scholarship program and sponsorship of Junior Achievement. For more information, visit their website at www. liba.org. If you are interested in registering for the golf tournament, contact Bud Synhorst at (402) 466-3419 or by email at bud@liba.org.

Sun Valley Lanes & Games and Numark

Golf Course Team Up for Pins & Sticks 2.0

Sun Valley Lanes & Games is co-hosting their Pins & Sticks 2.0 event with Numark Golf Course. Ever wanted to combine golf, bowling and a raffle with awesome prizes all in one day? Get ready for exactly that on Sunday, August 27 at Numark, 4944 S 89th St. Check-in starts at 7:40 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. This is a 21+ event.

The entry fee is $500 for a four person team and includes a catered lunch, cash prizes, pin prizes and drink tickets. The day will start with the golf tournament, then lunch will be served at 1:15 p.m. with the bowling competition starting promptly at 1:50 p.m. The raffle and overall standings/prizes will come after the competition ends. Online registration is required for this event. You can register and find tournament rules at www.sunvalleylanes.com/tournaments.

Sun Valley Lanes & Games, located at 321 Victory Ln., is Lincoln’s largest and most modern entertainment center. Guests love the full-service bar and grill with large-screen HD TVs, and games such as Billiards, Megatouch, Bankshot and Big Red Keno. With over 30 lanes, Sun Valley offers exclusive non-traditional fun bowling games not found in any other Nebraska center, including Rocky Road Race, Virtual Red Pin and Strike Challenge, just to name a few. To learn more, go online to sunvalleylanes. com. Further questions can be directed to (402) 475-3469.

Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate Releases

First Quarter of 2023 Market Report

Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate is excited to release their First Quarter 2023 market report.

Greenleaf employs a full-time market analyst who tracks the market using a variety of tools and resources on a daily basis. In addition to utilizing information available on the subscription sites, Costar, CCIM’s Site to do Business and MRCIE, Greenleaf maintains multiple in-house databases using Realnex. The Realnex databases allow Greenleaf to track occupancy in over 10,000 properties in the Lincoln greater statistical area.

The Greenleaf Market Report is a semi-annual market report that includes trends in vacancy rates, absorption rates, asking rents, building permits and notable transactions.

The comprehensive, real-time information they maintain in Realnex sets Greenleaf Commercial apart in terms of local market expertise. In addition to producing the Market Report, the Realnex databases allow their agents to have the most accurate and up-to-date market data when working with clients.

The reports are free and open for the public to download through Greenleaf’s website and through the accompanying QR Code.

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.

HBAL’s Annual Golf Tournament Benefits Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation

The Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL) and the Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation held their annual golf tournament on Friday, June 2. This year, 224 golfers played in the event at Highlands Golf Course, raising over $9,000. Koala Insulation was this year’s winning team with a score of 59.

The Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation was established in 2009 as a 501(c)(3) charitable, nonprofit organization dedicated to the future of the home building industry in Lancaster County. The Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation’s mission is to support the educational and charitable activities of the Home Builders Association of Lincoln. The Foundation strives to support the community by contributing to community service projects focused on housing as well as by providing scholarships for students pursuing a career related to the building industry and providing funding for other industry related educational programs. Since 2010, the Foundation has distributed almost $307,000 through residential and interior design contests, “If I Could Build a House” art contest, scholarship programs and donations to other charitable organizations. The Foundation also benefited local families through the Habitat for Humanity Blitz Builds and the annual Santa Cop Project.

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 www.hbal.org.

PNG

Raises Over $5K for

Chariots4Hope

Through Annual Pass the Hat Campaign

Professional Networking Group (PNG) of Lincoln was thrilled to present Chariots4Hope with a check for $5,215 on June 7. These funds were raised through PNG’s annual Pass the Hat campaign. Every year, during the month of May, the local referral group encourages its members to donate to a selected charity at their bi-weekly chapter meetings. Chariots4Hope was picked as the 2023 beneficiary because of their unique and impactful work in the community.

“Chariots4Hope has a niche mission, and they are addressing a major need by helping people overcome transportation barriers,” said Brad Brodersen, president of PNG, at the all-chapters networking event where the big check was presented.

At the start of this year’s Pass the Hat fundraising campaign, Brad set a goal for all PNG chapters to collectively raise enough money so that Chariots4Hope could purchase one vehicle for an individual in need. When the funds were totaled, that goal was exceeded. PNG’s donation will allow Chariots4Hope to purchase two vehicles, which means that the lives of two people in Lincoln will be significantly changed.

Professional Networking Group of Lincoln currently has four chapters that meet every other week. The group culture is supportive, community-minded and makes it fun to do business, all without the use of a stopwatch. For more information, please visit pnglincoln.com.

Skin Experts Launch QUL Beauty Balancing Acne Toner

Skin Experts is excited to announce their newest addition to the QUL Beauty line, their revolutionary Balancing Acne Toner, launched June 20. This is an alcohol-free resurfacing toner that brightens and balances skin postcleanse. AHA and BHA, witch hazel and effective essential oils combine in a rejuvenating formula that works to clear and refine pores, control sebum production and sooth inflammation and uneven skin tone, revealing a more radiant and youthful-looking complexion – all for the price of $48. It can be perfectly paired with their other products to brighten and balance the skin post-cleanse. Combined with their Teen Young Adult Acne Program (which is only $140 for four treatments – ONLY $35 per treatment), experience amazing results and a more radiant and youthful-looking complexion.

Because the QUL Beauty Balancing Acne Toner contains exfoliating AHAs and BHAs, this second cleansing step removes residual oil, product, dirt, bacteria, pollution and debris that may remain after washing your skin with a cleanser and water. It is also alcohol-free and pH-balanced to reduce redness, irritations and inflammation without stripping the skin barrier of moisture. The unique formulation of ingredients helps to improve skin texture, hydration and increase vitality while eliminating impurities all in one step. It ultimately brightens the complexion and decreases appearance of surface lines and wrinkles.

Skin Experts offers luxury, hi-tech facials for all skin types at an unbelievable price. For more information on personalizing your skincare, visit www.skinexperts.com or contact hellolincoln@ skinexperts.com / (531) 500-5224.

SP Group, P.C. Becomes a 100% Membership Organization in NESCPA

The Nebraska Society of Certified Public Accountants (NESCPA) recently rolled out a new program called the 100% Membership Initiative which recognizes accounting firms and businesses that have 100% of their CPAs as NESCPA members. This initiative was designed to help strengthen Nebraska CPAs through advocacy, educational and pipeline efforts. As a 100% Membership firm, SP Group, P.C., will have unwavering support from the NESCPA. The society’s purpose is to amplify the voice of the profession in the Nebraska Legislature as an advocate to protect the integrity of the CPA license and support positive legislative regulatory outcomes for their members. In addition, the society will act as the liaison to the Nebraska Board of Public Accountancy to help resolve issues and concerns. Participating in the 100% Membership Organization program sets SP Group, P.C., apart from other firms and demonstrates their dedication to the CPA profession. Through the efforts of NESCPA, they hope to grow the accounting pipeline by finding, retaining and developing future leaders in the profession.

SP Group, P.C., serves growth-oriented companies and talented individuals in the Midwest and beyond with the goal of making sure that their clients have the support they need to feel confident about their tax planning and financial future. Supporting the 100% Membership Initiative brings them one step closer to that goal. Visit spgrouppc. com, follow SP Group on Facebook (@SPGroup,P.C.) and Twitter (@ SPGroupPC) or call (402) 420-7758 to learn more.

Experts in Building Control Technology

POWERED BY

As a leading Building Control contractor, Engineered Controls’ goal is to provide customers with products and services to create efficient, safe and comfortable building environments.

Engineered Controls offers complete turn-key control solutions including construction, retrofit, service and maintenance for facilities of all types and sizes.

Offices in Omaha and Lincoln, NE.

Sumner Place Recognized as 2023 Nebraska Bronze Quality Award Recipient

Sumner Place is extremely proud to announce their recognition as a 2023 Bronze - Commitment to Quality Award recipient by the American Health Care Association (AHCA). They earned this title for their commitment to improving the lives of their residents through quality care. This distinction is the first of three progressive award levels through the AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program. The program honors providers across the nation that have demonstrated their commitment to improving quality of care for our nation’s elders and individuals with disabilities.

The AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program is a rigorous threelevel process that is reviewed and evaluated by trained experts against a set of nationally recognized standards for organizational excellence. The standards of the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program help organizations achieve superior performance over time to improve quality of life and care of long term care residents and staff.

Sumner Place is one of 32 facilities and a home healthcare agency owned and/or managed by Vetter Senior Living (VSL) in Elkhorn. The care center’s administrator and staff develop plans to continuously improve their services and facility with the support from the VSL network. Learn more at sumnerplacecare.com or by calling (402) 475-6791.

Business Communications Solution Found through ALLO’s Hosted VoIP Phone Services

ALLO’s Hosted VoIP (Voiced over Internet Protocol) Phone is the complete business communications solution that provides all your voice and data needs for your business. If you’re considering ditching your traditional landline telephone service for an Internet-based VoIP (Voice over IP) system, Allo is the right place to be. Here is why customers choose ALLO:

• Affordable – Get all your services with ALLO and save money and the hassle of managing multiple bills to multiple vendors.

• Simple to set up and use – Setup is hassle free, with a dedicated onboarding specialist to ensure a smooth installation process and customized phones options that quickly connect to your existing network. ALLO can provide PoE switches for an additional cost.

• Any device, anywhere and anytime – MaxUC, their mobile app, turns your employees’ desk phones, laptops, tablets and smartphones into mobile offices, giving them 24/7 access anywhere they have an internet connection.

ALLO offers free quotes for customized solutions, free installation, local support and the purchase of phones with no contracts. Leasing options are also available.

ALLO specializes in providing world-class communications and entertainment services by creating and operating gigabit communities. Hassle-free service and a 100% fiber-optic network will improve how students learn and employees work, whether from home, schools or business. ALLO currently serves over 35 communities in Nebraska, Colorado and Arizona, with a total population of more than 1,000,000 supported by more than 1,300 team members. For more information about ALLO, go toAlloFiber.com or call (402) 480-6500.

HuskerRehab’sTherapistBenPetersen,DPT NowOfferingOrthoticsEvaluationsandFittings

Husker Rehab is excited to announce that their Physical Therapist Ben Petersen, DPT is now offering orthotics evaluations and fittings! Due to a personal need, Ben has recently completed training on orthotics fittings and is happy to offer this service, along with customized orthotics, to patients.

Ben was experiencing his own challenges with pain and postural misalignment that were not improving with various exercise and treatment options. He later found that the root of the problem was at his feet. He went through the fitting process to obtain orthotics for personal use, which resulted in improvement with his postural alignment and pain.

Ben Petersen, DPT is an experienced physical therapist that now offers orthotics as part of treatment for multiple types of pain issues. Orthotics may be an option to help with back, neck and knee pain associated with postural misalignment.

If interested, please contact Husker Rehab at their North clinic to schedule an appointment with Ben Petersen, DPT.

Husker Rehab proudly offers therapy services in five clinics in four different Nebraska cities, where they serve physicians and their patients with unique, highly-intensive, highly-customized rehabilitation, wellness and preventative care therapies that make a difference in people’s lives. They listen to every patient’s needs and desires, analyze the problem and figure out ways to get people moving again. For more information about Husker Rehab and their services, visit huskerrehab.com.

John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating and Air Announces Upgrades

John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating and Air is happy to be able to offer many rebates and incentives when upgrading your systems to high efficiency HVAC systems. This summer, there are many different rebates and incentives being offered by Black Hills Energy, LES and tax companies. Speak with your tax representative to see if you qualify!

John Henry’s will deliver a customized experience by sending a comfort consultant to your home to meet with you and your family. From there, the consultant will ask questions about your current solution, what you’re looking to achieve and give you all of your available options to help maximize comfort, efficiency and cost savings.

Established in 1996, John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating and Air is a full-service plumbing, heating, air conditioning, air quality, duct cleaning and water treatment business. They have a committee set aside to ensure they are doing all they can for the community around us. For more information or to discuss your home’s plumbing, heating, cooling and indoor air-quality needs, visit jhlincoln.com, call (402) 435-5555 or email info@jhlincoln.com.

Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee Releases New Shaken Lemonades for Summer

Rock ‘n’ Joe’s Coffee Bar has announced their brand new shaken lemonades for summer. Cheers to a twist on the timeless lemonade we know and love!

New flavors include the tried and true Iced Tea Lemonade, fruity and refreshing Strawberry Lemonade and the sweet and floral Lavender Lemonade. Of course, you can always grab a Classic Lemonade when you’re in the mood for something perfectly simple. These drinks have the perfect balance of sweet and tart, a summer day isn’t complete without one.

Need your caffeine kick instead? Grab a lavender latte or lavender cold foam iced coffee to brighten up your day and get you going. You can’t go wrong with anything at Rock ‘n’ Joe’s, and with the weather warming up it’s the perfect time to sip on something and enjoy their outdoor seating.

Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee Bar is all about creative excellence. Their premium coffee is masterfully blended, and their food lineup and live music on the weekends are musts. Stop by Rock ‘n’ Joe, 5025 Lindberg St., and try out their coffee alongside one of their delicious sandwiches and side of kettle chips! Learn more at rocknjoe.com, on Facebook (@RockNJoeLincoln) or by calling (531) 500-4684.

LP Fitness Offering Free Six-Week Transformation Challenge

LP Fitness, located at 200 N 66th St, STE 207, is offering a FREE six-week transformation challenge for the community!

Right now, LP Fitness is looking for some motivated individuals who are looking for a big change in their health and fitness lifestyle.

There’s a lot of good in this program, so here’s what to expect. Calorie-killing workouts for ALL fitness levels that burn fat and get you toned fast! There’s a meal plan that’s east to follow and easy to stick with that get you results. You’ll have daily accountability coaching included to drive your progress and keep you safe. Last but definitely not least, you’ll have an unbelievably supportive community to ensure you crush your goals! You can sign up on their Facebook @lpfitnessne1.

LP Fitness is Lincoln’s ONLY Transformation Center and one of a kind gym with its own vibe, and network of loving, highly trained coaches. Since sustainable body transformation is much more than physical fitness, everyone who walks through the doors at LP Fitness gets the three pillars necessary for sustainable body transformation. They are Nutrition, Fitness and Accountability. With sessions 7 days a week, and over 25 class times to choose from, along with virtual sessions there are no excuses. They are ready to help you reach and sustain your goals! LP Fitness offers various membership options for any schedule and price level. For more information, visit LPFitnessne.com or contact Owner Liza Mendoza-House at (402) 730-2359 / lpfitnessne@gmail.com.

Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar Announces New Lunch Menu

Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar is excited to announce their new lunch menu is now available. Carmela’s Executive Chef and Culinary team are some of the best in Lincoln! They take pride is presenting beautiful and tasty cuisine. Stop by for lunch

Monday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sunday brunch is also available from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar has been in Lincoln’s quaint Pioneers Woods Shopping Center since 2008. It is truly the love child of its owner, Marci Hanshaw. Her vision of a sophisticated-yet-cozy eatery and bar is alive at Carmela’s. The walls are full of playful wine-loving sayings and photos of Hollywood’s most iconic faces from the 50s and 60s, such as Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra and Johnny Cash. There is also an impressive wine wall in the main dining area that showcases Carmela’s vast selection of vino.

You are invited to join Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar for an experience filled with memorable moments built upon food, wine and friendship. They create chef-inspired American cuisine that includes hand-cut steaks, pasta and seafood. They passionately believe that food and wine hold the power to forge lasting connections, setting the table for a life welllived. For more information, visit carmelasbistroandwinebar.com., call (402) 489-0005 or email carmelasbistroandwinebar@yeahoo.com.

The Combine Hosts AgTech Connect Conference July 20

Attention AgTech entrepreneurs, innovators, investors and enthusiasts, The Combine is hosting the 2023 AgTech Connect conference on July 20 - a premier event for the agricultural technology industry and focused on the Midwest. This year’s conference will feature cutting-edge startup showcases, an impressive keynote speaker and networking opportunities with top industry professionals.

Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or new to the AgTech scene, there’s something for everyone at AgTech Connect. Secure your spot today at agtechconnect.co. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with the brightest minds in the industry and gain valuable insights that will help take innovation to the next level. See you there!

Invest Nebraska’s Combine Incubator is a statewide initiative focused on supporting high-growth agri-food entrepreneurs through mentoring, commercialization support, physical incubation space on Nebraska’s Innovation Campus and a network of helping farmers and ranchers across the state. Invest Nebraska is a private, nonprofit statewide venture development organization focused on high-growth companies in Nebraska and growing the state’s entrepreneurial economy. Invest Nebraska works directly with entrepreneurs, researchers and companies to help commercialize their technologies, launch and grow new businesses and access needed capital. Learn more about The Combine at nebraskacombine.com.

Sedation Dentistry Is the Key to Success at South Lincoln Family Dentistry.

Why Sedation Dentistry?

We talked to Dr. Christine Bergman of South Lincoln Family Dentistry about sedation dentistry and how it has impacted her practice:

“Fixing dental problems is essential for maintaining good oral health, as dental issues can cause significant pain and discomfort and even lead to serious health complications if left untreated. However, many individuals avoid seeing a dentist due to dental anxiety, a common fear among adults. This anxiety can prevent patients from seeking necessary dental care, even when experiencing pain or discomfort.

Fortunately, oral sedation has emerged as a valuable tool to overcome the barrier of dental anxiety and help patients receive the care they need. Oral sedation is a safe and effective method of reducing anxiety and allowing patients to feel more comfortable during dental procedures.

Dentists can use oral sedation to create a more relaxing and comfortable environment for patients, reducing their fears and anxieties associated with dental visits. This can help patients receive the care they need to maintain good oral health and prevent dental problems from progressing.

Oral sedation has improved our ability to provide highquality care, allowing us to focus on delivering the best possible dental work. As a team, we are confident in offering a different dental experience. This confidence helps build trust with our patients and allows them to say yes to comprehensive treatment resulting in healthier mouths.

Oral sedation can be a great way to receive necessary dental treatments without anxiety for patients with severe dental anxiety. Patients can feel more relaxed and comfortable during procedures by using sedation, allowing the dentist to perform the necessary treatments with precision and accuracy.”

Remarkable Success Story:

One amazing patient suffered from severe dental anxiety and PTSD due to a traumatic accident that resulted in multiple missing and broken teeth. When she first came to see Dr. Bergman, the thought of anything being placed in her mouth caused extreme anxiety. However, this patient received the dental care she needed to restore her smile and improve her quality of life. She achieved an entire arch of replacement teeth in just one day. Thanks to full mouth rehabilitation with a Hybrid Bridge, patients’ dental fears are now a thing of the past. She can now enjoy a beautiful, functional smile and the confidence that comes with it.

Dr. Bergman and her team always seek ways to improve their patients' experiences, including overcoming the common fear of dental anxiety. This is why they offer oral sedation as an efficient way to create a comfortable patient experience.

Dr. Bergman emphasizes that sedation dentistry is more than just treating nervous patients. It is an essential tool that allows her to provide comprehensive care comfortably and efficiently, benefiting her patients.

ASK THE EXPERT: COMPRO

by Kayla Northup Location Manager, MGA, Agent

AnsweringCommonQuestions About COBRA

Under COBRA, many employees and their families who would lose their health insurance because of a job loss or other serious life event can keep it for a limited time. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive on COBRA:

I’m leaving my job soon. Will I qualify for COBRA?

You must meet two basic requirements to be entitled to elect COBRA continuation coverage. First, your group health plan must be subject to COBRA. A group health plan is generally subject to COBRA if they have more than 20 full-time employees. Second, you must be a qualified beneficiary for COBRA. A qualified beneficiary is an employee or dependent who is covered on the health plan on the day before their job termination. If your employer has less than 20 employees, you may be eligible for the small group version of COBRA called State Continuation.

I’ve heard COBRA can be really expensive. Should I take it?

COBRA allows you to stay on your employer-based coverage after employment termination. The COBRA premium is the full amount of the insurance. Employers subsidize the cost of the insurance for employees. But when you enroll on COBRA, you are responsible for the full cost. It may be in your best interest to explore other healthcare coverage options. These include purchasing insurance through the Marketplace, finding coverage through a spouse's employer or researching government programs like Medicaid. Also consider your deductible accumulation on your employer’s plan. Many people who have already met their deductible opt to take COBRA for the rest of the year. If you do choose to sign up for COBRA, you have the option to enroll in the Marketplace during the Open Enrollment period that occurs at the end of the year.

Can I cover my dependents with COBRA?

You can cover your dependents on COBRA if they were previously covered under your employer-based health insurance plan (see qualified beneficiary above). Each qualified beneficiary has the independent right to elect COBRA continuation based upon their needs.

When does my COBRA coverage begin?

If your coverage as an employee ended on May 31, your COBRA coverage will begin on June 1. COBRA coverage begins on the day immediately following your coverage termination as an employee. There is no gap in coverage when electing COBRA, even if you wait until the end of the 60-day election period to enroll.

How long can I be on COBRA?

If you are COBRA-eligible due to a job loss or a reduction in work hours, you can keep the coverage for up to 18 months. If you are COBRA-eligible due to a divorce, legal separation or death of the employee, then the coverage can last for up to 36 months. Medicare Eligibility can also affect the duration of COBRA.

The team at ComPro can answer any additional questions you may have about COBRA. They are your trusted and local resource for health insurance! Including Employee Benefits, Individual & Family Benefits and Medicare. To make an appointment with one of their licensed insurance agents, call (402) 488-5100. For more info, visit www.comproins.com.

No

Russ Ripa Vice President Commercial Loans

Katie Bohlmeyer LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Who inspires you? - My grandpa, Gene Bohlmeyer, instilled a good work ethic in me at a young age. He taught me to have a strong work ethic and seek a high level of professionalism, not only for me, but so I can give back to the community who built me up. Throughout my career in local politics, Tammy Ward has become a strong woman I look up to. Her poise and determination to do what is right for her community is something that should be celebrated daily. I think it is important to help build confidence in the women around us, and that is exactly her style of leadership.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Scoot over and make some room. It’s a heck of a lot easier to live within our bubbles – where everyone thinks and acts like us – than it is to burst those bubbles. But do know you what happens when you live inside a bubble? It blurs your vision on everything outside the bubble. In other words, you can’t see straight. And if our view of people who are different from us is blurry, then our view of God is blurry as well.” A good friend of mine gave this quote to me, and it now is framed in my office. I think this is especially important for Lincoln.

What descriptive word would you like to be remembered by?

- Tenacious: persisting in existence; not easily dispelled.

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “When You Believe” -Whitney Houston & Mariah Carey.

If you could have a super power, what would it be?Photographic memory. Most people probably wouldn’t consider this a superpower but life would be so much easier.

What local nonprofit are you passionate about and why? - I am currently a volunteer for the CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) of Gage County and have been on my case for about two years. CASA is an amazing organization because we are the voice for the children in the court system. I believe everyone should be involved in their local branch because there are so many children in Nebraska who need extra support that they otherwise might not get. There are also so many nonprofits and organizations that CASA utilizes to help children in foster care and adults struggling to care for their families. Both of my parents have always been very active in our communities in helping those around us and taught me to give as much back as I can. I encourage everyone, if you cannot monetarily help those around you, please reach out to any local nonprofit and work to make your community loving and supportive of all.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Lincoln has so many good local restaurants, but my favorite is Toast. I am always met with great service and excellent food!

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - If I could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, it would have to be Ruth Bader Ginsburg. She was determined to achieve success in the face of adversity and gender discrimination. It is because of her that I can achieve my goals and become a policy advocate to work diligently for those around me. “Fight for the things that you care about. But do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 436-2352; kbohlmeyer@lcoc.com.

Meet Katie Bohlmeyer, Business Policy Advocate at the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce.

STAR CITY SIX RENEE

Renee Pickerel LEGACY ARBORS

Meet Renee Pickerel, Executive Director at Legacy Arbors of Legacy Retirement Communities.

Tell us a little about your business. - At Legacy Arbors, we have a passion for serving those with memory loss and their families. Our extraordinary, caring and compassionate staff go above and beyond to create a welcoming and supportive environment where people thrive. We pride ourselves on being the best resource for memory care. We are passionate about helping families understand and embrace the changes that accompany Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. There is a common thread you will find among all Legacy Retirement Communities. We believe in building relationships and establishing trust and rapport between residents, families and friends. We are your partner in caring for your loved one.

How did you get started in the business? - Before I moved to Lincoln 32 years ago, I worked in a senior center as an in-home services coordinator. I have always liked to be in the helping profession. So when I moved to Lincoln, I got a job with a homecare company. I did take a break from healthcare for two years and worked as a travel agent which I loved but found I missed healthcare. I discovered the healthcare profession is where I really wanted to be and could make a difference. I’ve worked in hospice and assisted living/memory care most of my career.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - I have to say COVID was the biggest challenge I’ve faced professionally. It went against everything we do in healthcare. When loved ones could not see their families, had to visit through a window, could not participate in group activities and was quarantined to their room, it was the hardest thing to go through.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Being named Nebraska Healthcare’s Assisted Living Administrator of the Year and Network Chapter Woman of the Year from the American Business Woman’s Association.

Tell us a little about your family. - I am married to a wonderful man Dan, and we will be celebrating 32 years this year. We love our two dogs, Niki and Jasper, who are Pomskies. We have many nieces and nephews that we enjoy.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - In the summer, I love to swim in my pool, go boating and camping in our RV, get together with friends and basically anything outside. In the winter, we love to travel somewhere warm.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I have swam with sharks in Tahiti. I am actually shy (sometimes) around people I don’t know.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” - Maya Angelou.

What descriptive word would you like to be remembered by?Compassionate.

What local nonprofit are you passionate about and why? - Any nonprofit organization helping or saving animals. They are God’s creatures who are defenseless.

What is your favorite TV show? - Yellowstone

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 466-3777; renee.pickerel@legacyretirement.com; www.legacyretirement.com.

Jen Miseno SUN VALLEY LANES & GAMES

Meet Jen Miseno, Event Coordinator at Sun Valley Lanes & Games.

Tell us a little about your business. - We are a family entertainment center that offers bowling, laser tag, Lucky Putt, an arcade, league sand volleyball and a beautiful outdoor greenspace.

How did you get started in the business? - Bowling has always been a major part of my life, so it was no surprise that my very first job was working at a bowling alley. At the time, there were no other girls doing this job. Though I had gone off to do many other things, I was reintroduced to the bowling industry when my friend, John Losito, was looking to fill a vacancy.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Working at Sun Valley Lanes & Games, I get to be part of a worldrenowned facility that has been fortunate enough to play host to major national and international tournaments.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - I spent nine years living in upstate New York. Both the move out there and then the return were very life-changing moments for me.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - In the summer, I enjoy playing golf. I’m not great, but I love being outside and appreciate the peace and beauty of the courses.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - Those who are familiar with bowling in Nebraska know that UNL is considered one of the best bowling schools. I was on the very first national championship team in 1991.

Who inspires you? - My daughter definitely inspires me the most. She gets me out of my comfort zone to try new things. Both our jobs are very similar and we often help each other, share ideas and give each other feedback.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - I think the reason I’m good at what I do is because I do get to utilize my greatest talents.

Which talent would you most like to have? - I would love to be able to pick up any musical instrument and play it.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - At one time, I would have wanted to be a professional bowler.

What local nonprofit are you passionate about and why? - I’m passionate about animals and promote adopting pets. All of my animals have been adopted from a shelter. Someone has to give a voice to those who can’t.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - My all-time favorite book is Where the Sidewalk Ends. I even have a tattoo of the cover on my shoulder.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - My favorite local restaurant is definitely Tico’s. I think I’ve been going there since they opened.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Leonardo DaVinci - he was so far ahead of his time with ideas and concepts.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Call, email or fill out an inquiry form on our website! (402) 475-3469; jmiseno@sunvalleylanes.com; www.sunvalleylanes.com/ parties-group-events.

STAR CITY SIX MATT

Matt Melichar WEST GATE BANK

Meet Matt Melichar, a Mortgage Loan Officer at West Gate Bank.

Tell us a little about your business. - West Gate Bank is a local, family-owned bank headquartered here in Lincoln. We have branches in town as well as in Omaha. On the Mortgage side specifically, we offer a wide array of loan products and options for our customers. We also service many of our loans by holding those in-house, so our customers are able to work directly with us on a local level for the life of their loan.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The last year has proven to be a bit of a challenge due to the uptick in interest rates, especially after having several years of record low rates.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- As much of a cliché as it might sound, I am truly in my profession to help individuals and families alike to achieve the dream of home ownership. I feel a true sense of accomplishment every time I am able to get to that closing table!

Tell us a little about your family. - I have an amazing wife, Lindsey with whom we will be celebrating our 10-year anniversary soon. We have three boys who keep us on our toes daily as well as two dogs.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Meeting my wife.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love a good day at the golf course, followed up by the pool with my family.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I am a big fan of musicals.

Who inspires you? - My dad. He is simply someone that you want to be like. He leads by example, works hard and is well liked and respected by all that know him.

What descriptive word would you like to be remembered by?Hard worker.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Supersonic speed like Flash. I am always going 100 miles a minute in everything I do and so if I could do everything faster, that would help me accomplish things at a much faster pace – hopefully that would give me some more down time to relax and hang out with my family and friends.

Which talent would you most like to have? - I would love to be able to play the piano. I am super envious of those that can just sit at a piano and simply play amazing music.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I would love to be a professional golfer. I am not great at golf by any stretch, but the thought of following all the beautiful weather throughout the year and playing some of the most amazing golf courses sounds like a lot of fun!

What is your favorite movie? – Gladiator.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - I have always enjoyed and had great experiences at Venue.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Tom Hanks. I think that he is by far the greatest actor of my lifetime and I just think he would be a cool guy to sit down and just get to know!

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?(402) 323-8900; mmelichar@westgate.bank; www.mobilemortgage. westgate.bank/borrower/signup/mmelichar@westgate.bank.

STAR CITY SIX ANNE

Anne Wallman COMPRO

Meet Anne Wallman, Operations Manager at ComPro.

Tell us a little about your business. - ComPro is your trusted and local resource for health insurance plans for Employee Benefits, Individual & Family and Medicare. Our team truly enjoys working together to serve our clients well.

How did you get started in this business? - I started in the insurance industry right out of college. My introduction to ComPro was through their servicing of my employer’s group benefits plan. When I decided to leave that job, I remembered how ComPro emulated core values that resonated with me. This made it easy to say “yes” when the opportunity presented itself to join the ComPro team.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?Working full-time as a mother when my kids were in their busy teenage years made it hard to maximize each day. But, I knew this was just a natural part of balancing my family’s needs with my career. A word of encouragement to mothers reading this – it does get easier as your children grow up.

Tell us a little about your family. - My family includes Mike, my husband of 32 years, our three adult children, one grandson, two dogs and a cat. I have a large extended family who know how to enjoy life together. Wherever my family is, that is where I want to be!

What is your favorite thing to do on your day off? - Boating, fishing and water sports. I love the thrill that comes with skiing and tubing. Reading is also a favorite past time. In the fall, Saturdays are reserved for cheering on the Huskers at home football games! Who inspires you? - Both of my grandmothers were strong and intelligent women. I appreciated their strong, Christian faith. They represented to me what it means to have the freedom to be yourself and follow your own path. And both had a marvelous sense of humor and giving hearts!

What is your favorite quote? - “Three things in human life are important: the first is to be kind; the second is to be kind; and the third is to be kind.” - Henry James.

What descriptive word would you like to be remembered by? - Loving. I want the people in my life - friends, family and acquaintances - to know they are loved.

If you could have a super-power, what would it be? - I think it would be fun to have super-strength. To be indestructible and able to do crazy things, like pick up a car. Why would I need to do that? I have no idea, but it sounds fun!

What talent would you most like to have? - To have a great singing voice. As a child, I sang all The Carpenters’ songs and still today wish I could carry a tune like Karen Carpenter.

What local nonprofit are you passionate about and why? - The BackPack Program, sponsored by Food Bank of Lincoln. This program helps students in need (along with their families) by providing a food-filled backpack for the weekend and during school breaks. Today, this program serves over 2,000 students and their families.

What is one of your favorite books? - A Gentleman in Moscow by Armor Towles is my current favorite. I really enjoyed the main character and the author’s descriptions of the charming people in the book.

If readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?Call our office at (402) 488-5100. You can also visit our website at www.comproins.com for more information.

STAR CITY SIX TERRY

Terry Clark TAC PAYROLL SOLUTIONS

Meet Terry Clark, Payroll Manager and Owner of TAC Payroll Solutions LLC.

Tell us a little about your business. - TAC Payroll Solutions LLC is a locally woman-owned professional business providing customers with top-quality full-service payroll including multi-state payroll, Davis Bacon reporting and so much more. TAC also provides full-service bookkeeping along with sales tax reporting, 1099 preparation and more.

How did you get started in the business? - I got started when I was hired as a receptionist at a small CPA firm in Arizona. After a brief time as a receptionist, about three months, the CPA offered me a position as staff bookkeeper and payroll clerk. They paid for me to attend accounting classes at the local community college, and I continued working for CPA firms, except for a two-year stint as office manager for the Chamber of Commerce in Ogallala, Nebraska, for the past 24 years.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - All the last-minute changes government officials make.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?Starting my own business and coming up quickly on my first anniversary of opening my office.

Tell us a little about your family. - I am originally from Columbus, where my mom, sister and her family still live. I met my husband while working for the same company in Columbus and we will have been married 28 years this October. We have six children and just had our seventh grandchild on May 19. We are empty nesters with the exception of our fur babies, a Havapoo named Max and a German Shepherd, Kota, both who just turned one this year.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?The day I met my husband and the day I started working for that first CPA in Safford, Arizona.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - It depends on the time of year. In the summer, we love travelling, camping and spending time in our backyard oasis. In the winter, we love cozying up in front of the fireplace. Recently, I started making projects with my new Cricut.

Who inspires you? - My husband.

What descriptive word would you like to be remembered by? - Loyal. Which talent would you most like to have? - I wish I was a little more assertive or a better conversationalist in social settings.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I wouldn’t choose any other profession. I love what I do!

What local nonprofit are you passionate about and why? - Saint Jude’s because of my grandchildren. I’m lucky to have very healthy grandchildren, but I’m so glad for Saint Jude’s and that they are there for the children/grandchildren that are not so healthy.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I’m a big fan of the Janet Evanovich Stephanie Plum series of books. Sadly, I haven’t had the time to read for awhile so I’m a few books behind.

What is your favorite movie? - Tombstone is my husband’s and my favorite movie. I also love the rom-coms.

What is your favorite TV show? - Survivor is my favorite TV show.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Hacienda Real.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Phone: (531) 249-5800; FAX: (531) 249-5801; terry.clark@ tacpayrollsolutions.com; www.tacpayrollsolutions.com.

(402) 480-6950

FINDING PURPOSE IN ASSISTED LIVING

Finding the right assisted living community can leave you feeling overwhelmed. The good news is you are not alone. The Waterford Assisted Living, Alzheimer’s & Memory Care Communities will help you find the perfect fit, so you can stop searching and relax knowing you have made the right decision. Their team of professionals is committed to using their talents and strengths to serve the needs of their residents.

Finding purpose can be difficult for any new assisted living resident, but is only a temporary feeling. No matter where we live, our meaning and satisfaction in life are essential parts of who we are. However, purposeful living becomes more important as we age and may require more effort in assisted living environments.

STAY CONNECTED

Stay in contact with loved ones and friends through phone calls, video meets and in-person visits. Small gatherings are highly encouraged!

Meet other residents and staff members. Building connections with those around you is a great way to create a strong sense of community and belonging.

ENGAGE IN ACTIVITIES

Enjoy the wide range of activities available! They include, but are not limited to, exercise classes, craft workshops, game nights and movie screenings.

Prioritize the activities you personally enjoy such as playing an instrument, gardening or reading.

VOLUNTEER AND HELP OTHERS

There is no greater sense of purpose than helping others. Try to volunteer and give back to your community, whether that be within your assisted living facility or with an organization in your local community. You could lead a group activity, help with meal preparation or even lend your expertise by teaching a class on something you’re knowledgeable about.

Finding purpose as a resident in an assisted living facility is possible. As you settle into this new environment, remember that there are always opportunities to create joy and satisfaction in your life. Be sure to stay connected with loved ones, engage in activities, volunteer, help others, set goals and seek out a sense of belonging. By following these tips, you can maintain a fulfilling and purposeful lifestyle in our communities.

If you’re searching for the right assisted living community, The Waterford is proud to provide the utmost care and attention for their community’s loved ones. Their unwavering commitment to providing constant care and fostering a welcoming social atmosphere helps us bring peace of mind to their residents and their families.

UNICO Group Welcomes Amy Hruska as Private Client Advisor

UNICO Group, a client-focused insurance broker, is pleased to announce Amy Hruska has joined the Omaha team as a private client advisor.

Amy comes to UNICO with 38 years of experience in the private client industry, most recently serving as a private client advisor in the Omaha office of a global insurance broker.

As UNICO continues to expand both its target market and geographically, they have recognized a demand among their clientele. Expanding the reach in the private client market enables them to partner with additional insurance providers who are experts in managing risks associated with high net-worth individuals.

In this role, Amy will provide private client insurance to individuals in the higher-end market, offering comprehensive coverage on personal assets that exceeds the maximum coverage limit of standard insurance carriers.

When asked why Amy chose to join UNICO Group, she answered, “UNICO is privately held and locally owned, yet their reach is vast. Being affiliated with a local, independent agency, I can deliver a more personal experience to those in my backyard, but at the same time, I can compete with national firms across the country.”

Amy is a past president of the Independent Insurance Agents of Omaha Association and currently holds the position of secretary/treasurer for the Independent Insurance Agents of Nebraska Association.

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

Cruise & Associates Celebrates Clements’ Graduation and Anniversary

Cruise & Associates congratulates Josiah “Jac” Clements on earning his Master of Professional Accountancy degree in May from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Clements has worked for Cruise and Associates since 2022 when he received his Bachelor of Science degree in business administration with a focus in accounting also from UNL.

This summer, Clements plans to start working on his CPA certification. The Cruise & Associates staff is grateful to have Clements on their team and is extremely proud of his accomplishments.

Cruise & Associates provides income tax, payroll and accounting services. They have offices in Albion, Columbus, Grand Island, Lincoln, Norfolk, Omaha and Wayne. Robert Cruise started the company in 1991 to help small to mid-size businesses grow their business and take it to the next level. The staff listens to business owners to help develop a plan that makes their businesses more efficient and profitable. To learn more about Cruise & Associates, visit www.cruise-associates.com.

Union Bank & Trust Promotes Amber Estes

Union Bank & Trust recently promoted Amber Estes to controllers system and operations officer.

Estes joined UBT in 2007 as a teller and has served in various supervisory roles since joining the Controllers team in 2008. In her new position, she’ll act as the liaison between Controllers and the Information Technology (IT) department to maintain software programs and applications. She’ll also be responsible for the implementation of new Controllers software and technology to help gain efficiencies through automation and ensuring that new software in other departments matches bank policy and regulatory requirements.

A graduate of Doane College with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, she serves the community as a volunteer coach for youth sports and is treasurer of the Panther Youth Volleyball Club Board.

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 $7.6 billion and trust assets of $43.4 billion as of December 31, 2022. For more information, visit www.ubt.com.

TheBridgeBehavioralHealthWelcomesMolly McDowell

The Bridge Behavioral Health welcomes Molly McDowell as the director of quality assurance. McDowell is new to Nebraska and brings 15 years of experience within the Behavioral Health field. She has a passion for working with people of all ages and mental health backgrounds. As the director of quality assurance, McDowell ensures The Bridge’s programs are accredited and works closely with their nurses and recovery advocates.

“We are thrilled to have Molly join our leadership team. Her knowledge, experience and forward-thinking are huge assets to The Bridge. We are excited to see great progress within the organization thanks to her innovative approach to her work,” stated Executive Director Tammy Stevenson. Since 1984, The Bridge has served people struggling with substance use and mental health disorders. Their programs include detoxification and medically monitored withdrawal, substance use and mental health respite, residential treatment and outpatient services. Learn more at thebridgenebraska.org or contact Taylor Brethouwer at tbrethouwer@ thebridgenebraska.org.

Health at Home Consultants Welcomes Brittne Morris to the Team

Health at Home Consultants, a nurse practitioner-owned house-call practice, is happy to welcome Brittne Morris to their team.

Brittne is a family nurse practitioner in Lincoln. She graduated with honors from the University of Nebraska Medical Center School of Nursing in 2013 with her Bachelors of Science in Nursing, and then from Clarkson College with honors in 2018 with her Master of Science in Nursing. She is board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner by the AANP. Brittne has had a passion for healthcare since she was young and has enjoyed working in neurology and emergency medicine in the past years. She has a particular interest in caring for complex populations as well as the geriatric population, as she enjoys the critical thinking these patients require.

Although she grew up in Columbus, Brittne settled into Lincoln during college and is proud to now call Lincoln her home. She has been married to her husband Seth for nine years and they have two wonderful children, Mae and Cal. In her free time, she loves to be outdoors, cook, garden, spend time with her children and cheer on the Huskers!

The Health at Home Consultants team has found a perfect business niche in homecare. They pride themselves on timely, high-quality care while collaborating with your team in the doctor’s office, home health care, hospice care and transitional care from hospital rehabilitation to home. As your physician or nurse practitioner in the home, they can assess, diagnose and treat. They provide mental health services and have wound consultation services. To learn more, visit www.healthathomeconsultants. com or call (402) 440-5268.

Lincoln Coin & Bullion Celebrates Sckerl's OneYearAnniversaryandWelcomesWold-Smith

Lincoln Coin & Bullion is excited to announce that Easton Sckerl is celebrating his one-year anniversary and will be interning full-time with LCB through the 2023 summer. They are also thrilled to welcome Harper Wold-Smith to the workforce, as she will also be doing a paid student internship through the summer of 2023 with hopes that her employment will continue as available throughout the 20232024 school year.

LCB is growing! With only three full-time employees, student interns are vital to their growth. The interns keep them organized and put together behind the scenes so that they can focus on the needs of clients. Students come with unique perspectives and give LCB the opportunity to continue to perfect their current systems and operations to create exceptional client experiences. LCB is excited to have student workers, knowing that they can positively impact their futures with experiences unlike those they’ll find in other industries.

Lincoln Coin & Bullion, LLC. is a local, established coin and bullion dealer serving Lincoln and the surrounding area. Specialists in all precious metals, LCB buys and sells coins, collections, silver, gold, platinum bullion, scrap gold & sterling silver, graded or certified coins, foreign coins, paper money and tokens. For more information, please call (402) 327-2853 or visit www.lincolncoinandbullion.com.

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Easton Sckerl

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McGill Law’s Jodie McGill Recognized as One of the 2023 Super Lawyers

McGill Law is proud to announce that McGill Law founder and managing attorney Jodie McGill was recognized as one of the 2023 Great Plains Super Layers! Even better, Jodie was named one of the Great Plains Super Lawyers last year, 2022, as well. Recognition as one of the 2023 Super Lawyers is reserved for outstanding attorneys who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. Only five percent of attorneys in the Great Plains receive this distinction. McGill Law is grateful to have one of the best at their firm. McGill Law is a woman-owned and operated family law firm practicing collaborative law, collaborative mediation, mediation and litigation. McGill Law is a female focused firm, specialized in helping women through legal issues like divorce, child custody and modifications. The firm believes that the best results for women are achievable when educated decisions are made with their family’s future and well-being in mind. With McGill Law guiding you through your family law matter, you will have a compassionate, caring, experienced attorney taking you through the legal process with the goal of achieving a peaceful resolution for you and your family. To contact McGill Law, call (402) 548-5418 or email info@ McGillLawyers.com. For more information, go to McGillLawyers.com.

Lutz Adds Trystin Baker and Andrew Reinholz to Lincoln Office

Lutz, a Nebraska-based business solutions firm, recently added Trystin Baker and Andrew Reinholz to its Lincoln office.

Baker joins the firm as a receptionist where she is responsible for creating an exceptional experience for clients and visitors. In addition, she will manage client inquiries, coordinate communication and perform other administrative duties as needed. Trystin graduated from the University of Nebraska at Omaha with a bachelor’s degree in creative writing.

Reinholz joins the team as a senior accountant in the audit department. He is responsible for performing audits, reviews and compilations for clients focusing on the nonprofit, manufacturing, employee benefit plans and software industries. Andrew graduated from Rockhurst University with a bachelor’s degree in accounting.

Lutz is a business solutions firm for people seeking a partner to help energize and heighten economic and organizational success. Their experienced team provides accounting, financial, talent, M&A and technology services. Lutz works to simplify complexities, help make critical business decisions and focus on the things that are truly important to you. They embrace your business as their own to spark the right solutions and help you thrive. That’s Lutz’s promise: to mind what matters. Learn more at www.lutz.us.

Trystin Baker

Andrew Reinholz

West Gate Bank® Promotes Jamie Brummond, MistySinicaandJohannaHannemann

The West Gate Bank ® Board of Directors has elected Jamie Brummond to senior vice president, mortgage compliance officer; Misty Sinica to assistant vice president, finance officer; and Johanna Hannemann to assistance vice president of regulatory compliance & training officer.

Jamie Brummond began his career at West Gate Bank in 2015 and has 20+ years of community banking, regulatory compliance and legal experience. Brummond oversees the bank’s retail and secondary market mortgage compliance programs, mortgage quality control program, internal audit programs and mortgage vendor management.

Jamie Brummond is located at West Gate Bank Center at 6003 Old Cheney Rd., and can be reached at (402) 853-7202 or jbrummond@westgate.bank.

Misty Sinica began her career at West Gate Bank in 2000. She has held roles in both the Retail and Operations departments. In her new role, Sinica will perform essential accounting and finance functions. She will assist with preparing financial statements and regulatory reports.

Misty Sinica is located at West Gate Bank Center at 6003 Old Cheney Rd., and can be reached at (402) 434-3487 or msinica@westgate.bank.

Johanna Hannemann began her career at West Gate Bank in 2004. She has community banking, Retail training and development and regulatory compliance experience. Hannemann is responsible for facilitating training to the Retail Banking Group, conducting regular bank-wide new employee onboarding and providing administrative support for various bank compliance programs.

Johanna Hannemann is located at West Gate Bank Center at 6003 Old Cheney Rd., and can be reached at (402) 323-8919 or jhannemann@westgate.bank.

For more information about West Gate Bank, go to westgate.bank.

It’s Not What You Know, It’s Who You Know and Who Knows You!

At Strictly Business, we strive to recognize local professionals for their significant awards, promotions, achievements and/or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Lincoln community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330, email editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com or submit your news online via www.strictly-business.com.

Jamie Brummond

Misty Sinica

Johanna Hanneman

Farris Engineering Welcomes Meisam Sedighi as Senior Power Systems Engineer

Farris Engineering, Inc. welcomed Meisam Sedighi to its electrical department in March of this year. He brings close to 15 years of electrical engineering experience and is a registered professional engineer in three states.

Meisam holds two master’s degrees: Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the University of Florida and Electrical Engineering from the University of Colorado Boulder. He is also certified in LEED AP Building Design & Construction with expertise in the design and construction phases of green buildings, serving the commercial, residential, education and healthcare sectors.

Most of Meisam’s focus throughout his career has been in the design of substations, and medium, high rise and industrial facilities in the Midwest and on both coasts. As senior power systems engineer, he will be responsible for: power system analysis for distribution system including load flow, short circuit, coordination and arc flash studies using SKM and ETAP; power system analysis for transmission system including transients like overvoltage and harmonics; and design of industrial facilities which require arrangements with other disciplines including mechanical, civil and structural. When not at work, he can be found enjoying nature or hanging out with a group of friends.

Farris Engineering is an industry leader in mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering with additional expertise in multiple sectors. To learn more about Farris Engineering, visit farris-usa.com.

Strictly Business Welcomes Shae Withington as New Content Writer and Editor

Strictly Business is excited to welcome Shae Withington to the production team as the new content writer and editor. Shae will work with clients each month to create press releases, feature stories, client spotlights and other editorial pieces for both the Lincoln and Omaha editions of the magazine.

Shae is originally from Genoa, CO, where her family farms and ranches. Having earned scholarships to attend Nebraska Wesleyan University, Shae moved to Lincoln to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree of Arts in English with a minor in marketing. Rather than moving back home after graduation this past May, Shae decided to take advantage of the opportunities that are available in a city much larger than her home town. Though she worked various jobs throughout college, none of them were exactly what she wanted to do with her life. After searching for a job somewhere in the English field, Shae found Strictly Business and couldn’t be happier with the position. She enjoys getting to write and edit material for a magazine that also lets her interact with clients and utilize most of her skill set. Please help Strictly Business welcome Shae WIthington! Shae can be reached at the office at (402) 466-3330 or by email at shae@ strictlybusinessomaha.com. To view monthly articles and stories on Lincoln businesses and other local professionals, go online to strictly-business.com.

Daring Minds Therapy Welcomes Robyn Vanderveen to Team

Daring Minds Therapy is excited to announce their new hire, Robyn Vanderveen, will be starting soon! Robyn Vanderveen, MS, PLMHP graduated with her Master of Science degree in clinical mental health counseling from Bellevue University. In addition, she completed an undergraduate degree in human services from Bellevue University. She works with adolescents, adults and couples utilizing culturally sensitive and trauma-focused practices into client sessions.

“In my work with clients I seek to navigate through change, healing and empowering clients,” said Robyn. “I focus on deeper meanings and understandings of our own selves within our existence and displays of resilience. In creating what we choose, whether it is changes through our thought processes, relationships, decisions or behavior, these can be reflected in the goals we seek to embrace the differences, challenges and curve balls that life throws at us.”

Daring Minds Therapy was founded in 2018 by Sarah Worley, Erica Schroeder and Maureen DeRyke. If you or someone you know could use the support of Daring Minds Therapy, get more information or book an appointment at daringmindstherapy.com, call (531) 289-1005 or email info@daringmindstherapy.com.

Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska Welcomes New Team Member & Role Expansion

Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska, a nonprofit serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), is proud to welcome Chelsea Boles as their new administrative assistant and announce that Malindi Gabelhouse, associate director of Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska, has been named as Mosaic in Omaha’s associate director.

Administrative Assistant Chelsea Boles joins Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska with three years of experience working in human services. She is engaged and is to be married August 26. She is getting married in Lincoln at the Sunken Gardens. Chelsea enjoys spending time with her partner, Zach, and their pets. Together they have three four-legged furry friends - Riley, Walter and Beans. Chelsea enjoys exploring her creative side and making fun planner layouts. Summer is her favorite season. She enjoys camping, kayaking and anything outdoorsy! Chelsea can be reached at chelsea. boles@mosaicinfo.org or (402) 477-2101.

Gabelhouse–who has been with Mosaic since 2019–will continue to serve as the associate director of Mosaic in Southeast Nebraska. With more than 20 years of experience in human health services and leadership management, Gabelhouse loves her job at Mosaic, as she personally connects to the organization’s mission to “embrace God’s call to relentlessly pursue opportunities that empower people.” Malindi can be reached at malindi. gabelhouse@mosaicinfo.org or (402) 429-0088.

Mosaic is a whole-person healthcare organization reaching across 13 states in more than 700 communities and providing supports to nearly 4,900 people. Mosaic is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. For more information, visit www.mosaicinfo.org.

Chelsea Boles

Malindi Gabelhouse

Summer Needs at Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach

Due to a combination of factors, Matt Talbot often provides an increased number of meals and has more guests seeking outreach services during the summer months. With school out of session, many families are stretched thinner with increased costs of child care and meals. People staying with friends and family may be asked to move out now that colder weather has passed, leading them to camp outside or sleep in their cars. Additionally, with warmer temperatures landlords reluctant to evict during the cold winter months may be more inclined to take action.

Matt Talbot offers prepared, nutritious meals twice a day, seven days a week. During the spring and summer months, their on-site Hope garden offers fresh vegetables that are incorporated into meals. Additionally, food pantries and high-quality donated food are available to guests year round. Other outreach services such as substance use evaluations and basic emergency needs are available to guests as well.

During this busy summer season, donations of sunscreen, bug spray, water, cooling towels and bike locks are needed. Donations can be brought directly to the community kitchen and outreach center at 2121 N. 27th St. during business hours Monday - Friday. For information about holding a drive at your workplace, please contact Victoria O’Neil at victoria.oneil@mtko.org or (402) 477-4116.

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.

JDRF Gears Up for One Walk October 1 with Presenting Sponsor Dormie Network

Walk with over 5,000 people to help find a cure for type 1 diabetes (T1D) at this year’s JDRF One Walk on Sunday, October 1 at Mahoney State Park starting at 11:30 a.m. JDRF gratefully acknowledges One Walk presenting sponsor Dormie Network!

The One Walk aims to raise awareness for T1D and to fundraise to accelerate T1D research breakthroughs to cure, treat and prevent T1D and its complications. T1D is an autoimmune disease that strikes children and adults suddenly. It has nothing to do with diet or lifestyle. If you have T1D, your pancreas stops producing insulin—a hormone essential to turning food into energy. This means you must constantly monitor your blood-sugar level, inject or infuse insulin from a pump and carefully monitor your eating and activity every single day.

By joining the JDRF One Walk, you’ll be part of the lasting footprint made for the T1D community now, and for generations to come. Register for the One Walk today at walk.jdrf.org/lincoln!

Questions about this event including sponsorship opportunities can be directed to Chris Dunn, associate executive director, at (402) 214-0638 / cdunn@jdrf.org.

JDRF has a mission to accelerate life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat T1D and its complications. They do this by funding innovative research, advocating for government action and providing a support structure for our community. For more information, please visit jdrf.org/nebraskaiowa or follow JDRF on Twitter (@JDRFNEIA).

Lincoln Community Foundation Thrilled with Give to Lincoln Day Results

The 12th annual Give to Lincoln Day on May 24 raised more than $7.5 million for 456 local nonprofits. The funds are designated to help support charitable organizations that serve Lincoln and Lancaster County. All participating nonprofits will receive a proportional share of a $500,000 match fund based upon the organization’s percentage of the total dollars raised, provided by Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF) and sponsors including Presenting Sponsor, West Gate Bank.

“Year after year, Give to Lincoln Day offers us the chance to give back to the organizations that are near and dear to us,” said Alec Gorynski, LCF president. “Organizations that provide art and cultural experiences, teach and guide our youth, support those who are experiencing hard times, care for our four-legged friends and much more.”

Nearly 25,000 donations were received for the 12th annual Give to Lincoln Day. The event has raised more than $57 million for local nonprofits in its 12-year history.

“The collective impact of 25,000 individual acts of generosity, along with the $500,000 matching fund, will empower the missions and fuel the critical work of 456 nonprofits for the year ahead,” said Gorynski. “We are thrilled with this year’s successful results that demonstrate the awesome power of philanthropy. When neighbors come together on Give to Lincoln Day, we provide everyone in our community the opportunity to thrive.”

The Lincoln Community Foundation, established in 1955, provides leadership and tools that connect donor generosity to local needs and passions. To learn more, visit www.lcf.org

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BridgestoHopePlanstoBuildTinyHome VillageforFormerInmates

Bridges to Hope is all about second chances – it’s what they do. In order to tackle the obstacles that previously incarcerated individuals face when trying to find housing, the organization is dedicating a space near 27th St. and Leighton Ave. for a tiny home village.

These 200-500 square-foot homes will be built from donated construction material and the plan is to have them constructed by those who are currently incarcerated. There will be a Village Council that will make decisions on residents of the community. This unique project would be a first for Lincoln and Bridges to Hope is excited for the opportunity to see it happen.

Bridges to Hope, located at 3107 S 6th St., STE 107, provides services to men and women who have been released from incarceration and are making the transition to a productive life outside of the cell. Their fundraising efforts include Bud’s Thrift Shoppe (2226 O St.), which helps generate money for the sustainability of the organization—100% of the proceeds from the store go directly back to fund Bridges to Hope’s mission. For more information about the organization or to donate to the cause, visit bridgestohopene.org or contact Executive Director Rhonda Mattingly at (402) 420-5696 / Rhonda@bridgestohopene.org.

HabitatforHumanityLincolnAnnounces Habitat’sWomenBuildCampaignExceedsGoal

Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln’s Women Build campaign wrapped up on May 31, exceeding the original $50,000 goal. Starting in September, Habitat recruited 50 women from across Lincoln. They were able to raise $65,100 to help build homes for families in need of safe, affordable housing. As a part of their commitment to the Women Build campaign, the women builders also had a chance to volunteer on the job site, learning new skills that will applicable to the additional homes they can sign up to work on this summer.

The campaign also featured a series of Women Build Workshops at Nebraska Innovation Studio. Proceeds from the classes went towards the overall campaign total.

Community support for this initiative came from supporting sponsors, Ameritas and Lincoln Journal Star. Additional support came from Integrity Group Lincoln, Pharmacy Solutions, Union Bank and Trust, Home Real Estate, Home Builders Association, Mead Lumber, Eleanor Creative and Hausmann Construction.

“As women, we often are so busy taking care of our own families and focusing on our own careers that we forget to take time and give back,” says LaCresha Brooks, development specialist at Habitat. “That is what ‘the power of she’ is all about.”

Established in 1988, Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln has built or repaired more than 199 local homes. Through community partnerships, Habitat builds strength, stability and self-reliance alongside families in need of decent and affordable housing. To learn more, contact Director of Development Deanna Walz at (402) 310-7884 / dwalz@lincolnhabitat.org or visit lincolnhabitat.org.

We Are SP Group | Taxes are a TEAM Sport

RegistrationOpenforAmericanHeart Association’sLincolnHeartWalkAugust19

Now is the time to register to participate in the American Heart Association’s 2023 Lincoln Heart Walk, set for Saturday, August 19. The walk is taking place at Antelope Park at 9 a.m. Checkin is at Auld Pavilion building anytime between 9 -10 a.m., with early check-in beginning at 8:30 a.m. Available routes include onemile and three-mile options. American Heart Association is excited to host their walk in-person for the first time in two years with a few changes to ensure the safety of all participants.

If you’re looking for a great way to socially connect and engage in physical activity, Heart Walk is the event for you – and you’ll be making a great impact in the community and saving lives! American Heart Association has set a goal of $85,000 in donations for the event. Check their progress and register for the event at www. lincolnheartwalk.com.

The American Heart Association’s mission is to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. To achieve this, they work by driving equitable health impact in our communities. 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. For more information, visit www.heart.org. For further questions about the event, contact Luke Allmon at (402) 810-6844 / luke.allmon@heart.org.

CommunityActionNameda2023Lincoln“Best Place to Work”

On May 2, Woods Aitken LLP, the Lincoln Journal Star and the Lincoln Human Resource Management Association, founders of the Best Places to Work in Lincoln list, announced that Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties (Community Action) has been named to the 2023 list of best places to work in the large company sized category. This is the sixth time Community Action has received this recognition.

The Best Places to Work in Lincoln program, which was started in 2013, recognizes local companies who, through a third party administered employee survey, rank their respective companies as being the best places to work. The areas surveyed are varied parts of employee life, including workplace environment, leadership direction, culture and management practices.

“We are honored to be named one of Lincoln’s Best Places to Work for the sixth time,” said Heather Loughman, CEO of Community Action. “Our staff works tirelessly every day to serve our community. This recognition belongs to them. The work that they do each day makes Lincoln one of the best places to live.”

For complete details visit www.communityactionatwork.org and www. woodsaitken.com/bptw.

Community Action empowers 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. In 2022, Community Action provided over 100,000 services to more than 18,000 individuals. Learn more at www.communityactionatwork.org.

Friendship Home Opens Registration for 21st Annual Safe Quarters Fundraiser

Friendship Home is delighted to announce that registration for the 21st Annual Safe Quarters Fundraiser has opened! On Sunday, October 8, over one-thousand Friendship Home volunteers will head out to Lincoln and surrounding neighborhoods for the 21st Annual Safe Quarters. By registering, you can help them reach their goal of knocking on every household door in Lincoln and surrounding area communities to collect financial contributions for survivors of domestic violence and raise awareness of the life-saving services they provide. Safe Quarters is Friendship Home’s largest annual fundraiser. In 2022, over $90,000 was raised, and, as a result, Friendship Home was able to serve over 1,500 survivors of domestic violence. Teams of volunteers are needed to walk Lincoln neighborhoods. A team generally consists of 8-15 members and all ages are encouraged to participate. Volunteers will receive t-shirts and collection buckets for the drive. You can help provide “safe quarters” to someone in crisis during this annual event.

To register a volunteer team, visitwww.friendshiphome.org. For questions and/or more information about Safe Quarters, email whitneyw@ friendshiphome.org or call (402) 434-0167.

Funds collected during Safe Quarters go towards Friendship Home’s mission to provide safe, confidential shelter, crisis services and ongoing support for families who have experienced domestic violence and are rebuilding their lives. To access safe emergency shelter and services, call Friendship Home’s helpline at (402) 437-9302. Learn more about services and how to get involved by going to www.friendshiphome.org.

Nebraska Safety Council Provides Required Motorcycle Training

The Nebraska Safety Council (NESC) is offering motorcycle training for beginner riders. The three-day course entitles the rider to receive the M endorsement. Participants receive classroom learning and skills practice on an outdoor motorcycle range. Register now for an upcoming course! Courses will commence July 14-16, 21-23 or 28-30; August 11-13 or 18-20; September 8-10 or 22-24 and October 6-8 or 13-15.

“With the new motorcycle helmet law that will go into effect January 1, 2024, all riders over the age of 21 who want to ride without a helmet must complete an approved basic motorcycle safety course and wear eye protection. We will continue to expand our class offerings through the end of this year to help individuals get the education they need,” stated Tracy Burmeister, traffic services manager for NESC.

Course prerequisites include a three-hour e-course included with registration and a printed certificate of completion must be presented at the first meeting of the class. It is highly recommended that the e-course be completed no more than one week prior to class.

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 membership today, visit nesafetycouncil.org, call (402) 483-2511 or email nesc@nesafetycouncil.org.

The Arc of Lincoln Moves Offices and Announces Come Together Art Class

The Arc of Lincoln is excited about their new office at 5200 Francis St., STE 101. Their new space has more square footage to accommodate their growing team, including the newly hired Financial Assistant Vickie Lewis. Vickie is a mother of three and Grandma of 16, with a great grandbaby coming in August. She was born in Doniphan, NE and has lived in Lincoln since 2020. She likes to spend her days off taking organ lessons, reading and tending to her flower garden.

The Arc of Lincoln also announces their Come Together Art Class Tuesdays and Thursdays this summer from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. It is free for all ages and abilities. They encourage you to attend the class to learn about different art mediums from a UNL Fine Arts student. Those that attend will receive a free art kit complete with supplies to enjoy all the classes.

The Arc of Lincoln serves people of all ages with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as their families. The Arc of Lincoln empowers people with disabilities and their families to promote and protect their rights and interests, while enhancing their lives. To learn more or to inquire about The Arc of Lincoln, visit www.arclincoln.org or contact Executive Director Jennifer Stuhmer at director@arclincoln. org / (402) 421-8866.

YMCA of Lincoln’s Railyard Rims Returns to Downtown for Seventh Year

In collaboration with the Downtown Lincoln Association, the YMCA of Lincoln is hosting the seventh Annual Railyard Rims August 4-5. This three-on-three tournament takes basketball to the streets of the Railyard, and players will be hooping for much more than a trophy.

Tournament proceeds benefit the YMCA’s Annual Fundraising Campaign - Strong Kids, which powers critical programs and activities that keep kids safe, people healthy and families strong. In 2022 alone, the Lincoln YMCA provided over $650,000 in financial assistance to nearly 900 families so they could experience programs ranging from basketball and soccer to swim lessons and summer day camp.

The tournament and fundraiser will host companies for the Company Cup on Friday night, August 4, with youth and competitive divisions on Saturday, August 5. All teams are guaranteed four games with players receiving an official Railyard Rims t-shirt.

“The opportunity to host this event not only activates downtown, but it raises awareness for the Y so they can continue introducing kids to the game of basketball and other valuable youth programs,” shared Todd Ogden, president of the Downtown Lincoln Association. Team registration is now open at RailyardRims.com.

One of Lincoln’s largest nonprofit organizations focusing on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the YMCA of Lincoln has served the community for over 150 years—promoting positive values through programs that build spirit, mind and body for all. For more information, visit YMCALincoln.org.

Down Syndrome Association for Families to Host Pool Party and Picnic July 27

Down Syndrome Association for Families welcomes members to join them for their annual Pool Party and Picnic July 27. The event will be held at the Genesis Health Club located at 1305 S 7th St. To learn more about becoming a member, visit www.dsafnebraska.org/membership.To register for the event, visit www.dsafnebraska.org/event-5297218.

The Down Syndrome Association for Families formed in 1995 as a way for parents to network and share the accomplishments and challenges of their children. Many families who have, or are expecting a child with, Down syndrome don’t always have reliable support or access to accurate information about Down syndrome. DSAF provides that support and information, along with a vision of what a blessing their child will be in their lives.

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.

Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra Announces 2023-2024 Season!

Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra (LSO) is excited to announce their 2023-2024 season!

Mahler’s “Resurrection” Symphony with Esther Heideman, Susan Platts and a large combined choir opens the season. Other symphonic masterworks include Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition; Brahms’s Piano Concerto No. 1 featuring Mark Clinton; Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons with concertmaster Anton Miller; and music by Bach, Handel, Beethoven and Sibelius.

LSO introduces new Composer-In-Residence, Elena Ruehr, with her piece Unquiet Earth. LSO will present several regional premieres this season, including James Lee III’s Courageous Lights for English horn, featuring LSO’s Darci Gamerl; Double Concerto for Clarinet, Violin and Ensemble performed by the composers Kinan Azmeh and Layale Chaker; Groovebox Fantasy by Kenji Bunch; and Damian Montano’s Concerto for Piccolo, Contrabassoon and Orchestra, performed by LSO’s Rebecca Van de Bogart and Joyce Besch.

Other highlights include 15-time GRAMMY award winner Béla Fleck performing his own Juno Concerto and a new transcription of Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue for banjo, a pop concert of Star Wars music, LSO’s annual Deck the Halls conducted by Lucas Waldin and two family concerts full of educational and musical fun. New this year, LSO offers a chamber orchestra performance in the Johnny Carson Theater with Copland’s Appalachian Spring and Prokofiev’s “Classical” Symphony. Subscriptions are available starting at just $80. Single tickets will be available August 1 with prices of $20/$40 for adults and $5 for youth.

Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra presents a season of 11 concerts which are attended by 10,000 audience members annually. Visit lincolnsymphony.com, email info@lincolnsymphony.com or call (402) 476-2211 for more information.

Girls on the Run Gears Up for 20th Year of Programming

Girls on the Run of Nebraska (GOTR) will celebrate its 20th anniversary this fall with friendship and 5K fun at schools across Lincoln and Omaha. More than 24,000 girls across the state have participated in GOTR since its inception with 11 girls in Lincoln in 2003.

Girls on the Run combines exercise, education and mentoring to build confidence and character in thirdthrough-sixth grade girls. Teams meet twice weekly for two months to play running games that help train them for a 5K run/walk. Lessons on teamwork, decision-making and goal-setting are incorporated with physical activity, so participants get much more than exercise. The season highlight will be the Metro regional GOTR 5K on November 5 in Lincoln. Volunteer coaches are needed for sites across Omaha and Lincoln. You don’t have to be a runner to be a great GOTR coach. Coaching is a rewarding short-term opportunity and you’ll have just as much fun as the girls. Training is required.

Help your girl put her best foot forward with Girls on the Run this year. Visit www.GOTRNebraska.org to bring GOTR to your school or to get involved.

HopeSpoke Shares New Advisory on Social Media and Youth Mental Health

Social media can be fun for adults and adolescents – but it also presents a risk of harm to mental health, especially for youth. HopeSpoke encourages parents and caregivers to follow the U.S. Surgeon General’s new Advisory on Social Media and Youth Mental Health.

The report shows that youth report benefits from social media such as community acceptance, connection with friends and a space for creativity. But, excessive time spent on social media and the content youth are viewing can increase symptoms such as depression and anxiety, disrupt sleep and affect body image and self-esteem.

“Social media is everywhere and can negatively impact youth and adults alike,” says Katie McLeese Stephenson, executive director of HopeSpoke. “There is an addictive quality to social media, and social comparison can leave people feeling isolated. Checking in with youth to help them to negotiate these experiences and set boundaries for use is a vital role for caregivers.”

Here are some ways parents and caregivers can help kids use social media safely:

• Establish tech-free zones to protect sleep and foster family relationships.

• Teach and model responsible online behavior.

• Report problematic content and activity.

• Help youth limit time on platforms.

• Monitor sharing of personal information.

The surgeon general’s report is available at surgeongeneral.gov/ ymh-social-media.

HopeSpoke inspires healthy futures for children and families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health services. For more information, visit hopespoke.org.

People’s City Mission’s Detox Program

People’s City Mission (PCM) facilitates a detox program for Lincoln. Intoxicated individuals are most often brought in by the Lincoln police, but could also be brought in by state troopers or UNL campus security. PCM provides a safe room for each person, having 10 rooms designated for detox, in which detoxing individuals are regularly checked on by their 24/7 staff. So far, they have had 111 people use the program in 2023.

“I’ve visited the chief of the nearest police station a couple of times and we’ve talked about our detox program,” stated Vice President of Operations Bryan Davis. “We strive to provide a reliable service officers can use at any time of the day or night to help people in need of detoxification who don’t have somewhere else to go. This is not just a service for individuals in need, but also for the safety of the entire community.”

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 350 men, women and children nightly in their emergency shelters and the Curtis Center transitional housing program. As Lincoln’s homeless shelter, People’s City Mission’s work is more than 97% funded by community donations. For more information or to donate, visit Only251.org or call (402) 475-1303.

Christian Record Services Announces 2023 Anne Lowe Scholarship Recipients

Christian Record Services, Inc. is pleased to announce the five collegiate recipients of the Anne Lowe Scholarship for the 2023-24 school year.

“Our scholarship committee was impressed with each of our applicants this year and we are thrilled to award scholarships to five outstanding individuals,” said Diane Thurber, president of the 124-year-old organization. “Through the ongoing generosity of donors, we are able to support the education of each of the selected recipients of the Anne Lowe Scholarship.”

The Anne Lowe Scholarship is awarded to college students and is based on academic achievement, citizenship supported through reference letters and verification of blindness. The scholarship is distributed in two parts during the school year. Tom Lowe established the scholarship in 1989 in the memory of his wife Anne, who loved education and the mission of Christian Record Services.

For more information on each of these outstanding students, please visit christianrecord.org/member-services/scholarship.

Christian Record Services, Inc. is an international ministry to people who are blind. The nonprofit was founded in 1899 and is headquartered in Lincoln. To learn more, visit www.ChristianRecord. org, call (402) 488-0981 or connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn (@CRSBfriends).

New Session of CASA for Lancaster County Volunteer Training to Begin August

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CASA for Lancaster County is seeking volunteers. A training session for new volunteers is set to begin on August 1. This is a six-week training course held on Tuesday nights from 6 to 9 p.m. All training sessions will be held at CASA for Lancaster County, 1141 H St., STE C on the third floor.

CASA volunteers are trained community advocates who are assigned to abused/neglected children who are in Juvenile Court through no fault of their own. CASA volunteers have a court order that gives them access to the child and to all of their records so that the CASA volunteer can carry out an objective, systematic examination of the situation and determine the needs of the child. This is done by interviewing all interested and concerned parties to determine the facts and reviewing all records, documents and clinical data.

CASA volunteers get to know the child and they communicate the child’s wishes to the judge. CASA volunteers are required to attend approximately 30 hours of pre-service training and 12 hours of in-service (continuing education) annually and are supervised by a CASA staff person.

In 2022, CASA served 296 children, trained 40 new volunteers and had 127 volunteers assigned to children. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a volunteer or aboutCASA for Lancaster County, go tocasa4lancaster.org.

Malone Community Center Launches Health and Healing Program

Malone Community Center has officially launched its Health and Healing program!

The Malone Health and Healing (MHH) program is dedicated to empowering the overall wellbeing of the community by promoting individual and generational growth in a collaborative and empowering environment. With skilled staff, MHH works to educate and partner with community members and organizations to bring awareness to mental health access to health care and chronic disease, while also providing peer support to individuals to help as they walk their life path.

For the last 66 years, Malone has served neighboring families, youth and the Lincoln community with inclusive, social, cultural, educational and welfare services. With their mission to end multigenerational poverty and vision to create unity and prosperity in Lincoln, they are constantly re-evaluating their programs to ensure the current needs of the community are being met.

The Malone Center started in 1955 as a community center in the midst of the civil rights era as a platform for creating racial and socioeconomic equality. For more information about Malone Community Center, visit www.malonecenter.org, email FES@Malonecenter.org or contact Christiana Vermeline at (402) 474-1110.

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Mourning Hope Grief Center to host Camp Erin in Ashland, September 22-24

Mourning Hope Grief Center is accepting applications to attend or volunteer at Camp Erin® Lincoln, September 22-24 at the Carol Joy Holling Center in Ashland.

Camp Erin is a free, weekend-long bereavement camp for youth ages six to 17 who are grieving the death of a significant person in their lives. Led by bereavement professionals and caring volunteers, Camp Erin combines grief education and emotional support with fun, traditional camp activities.

Campers are provided a safe environment to explore their grief, learn essential coping skills and make friends with peers who are also grieving. To attend camp, register by July 28 at mourninghope.org/programs/camperin.

Mourning Hope is seeking volunteers to serve as camp counselors and as support staff to assist with the diverse camp activities. Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older, pass a criminal background check, attend a training session and attend the pre-camp Save Your Spot event. Volunteers must commit to attending the entire Camp Erin weekend. To be part of this incredible experience, please complete a volunteer application by August 15 at mourninghope. org/programs/camperin.

Mourning Hope’s counseling, community education programs and resources are available at no cost, ensuring all bereaved Nebraskans can access compassionate care. Mourning Hope’s doors are open to you. Learn more at mourninghope.org or call (402) 488-8989.

Nebraska Community Foundation Announces 2023 Hometown Interns

For the fifth consecutive year, Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) is proud to announce a new class of Hometown Interns who will continue the program’s now firmly established success. This summer’s group of interns includes 21 college students serving NCF affiliated funds in 15 different Nebraska communities, including Arthur, Deshler, Diller, Exeter, Friend, Garfield County, Hebron, Hickman, Howells, Leigh, McCook, Red Cloud, Rock County, Shickley and Wauneta. Four interns return from last year, among them Rachel Orth of Keith County, who will once again serve as hometown intern coordinator.

Owned & Women Run

Hometown Interns work with local NCF affiliated funds on a variety of projects tailored to their community and the interests and skillsets of the interns. While the specific tasks and projects will vary from one Hometown Internship to another, NCF will provide numerous opportunities for interns to connect throughout the summer to give them space to learn from each other, share ideas and foster appreciation for their hometowns while contributing to community development efforts at the local and statewide level.

Nebraska Community Foundation unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. In the last five years, 46,653 contributions have been made to Nebraska Community Foundation and its affiliated funds. Since 1994, Nebraska Community Foundation has reinvested $463 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org.

Angels Among Us to Move to New Building in August

Angels Among Us is moving to their permanent home with space to host families for programming! They are excited to be making this move to Indian Hills to be near families treated at Children’s Hospital.

Angels Among Us will offer emotional support programming in their new home. They want the space to be a place where families can come and relax, enjoy camaraderie and feel supported by Angels Among Us and the community.

Over the last 15 years, Angels Among Us has helped over 600 families with expenses totaling more than $3 million. But, most importantly, they have helped over 600 families read bedtime stories and play board games without the all-consuming worry of paying bills such as rent, electric, auto payments, gas cards and more.

Angels Among Us provides financial and emotional support to families that have a child battling cancer that lives in or is being treated in the state of Nebraska. They are able to support and pay these bills for the length of time that the child goes through cancer treatment (anywhere from six-36 months). For more information, reach out to Amy Kent at (402) 934-0999 / amy@ myangelsamongus.org or visit www.myangelsamongus.org.

CBMC Golf Classic to Feature Ken Korkow as Breakfast Speaker July 31

The 22nd Annual CBMC Lincoln Golf Classic is set for Monday, July 31 at Wilderness Ridge Golf Course. Special guest speaker is Ken Korkow, Vietnam Veteran and CBMC Omaha area director. A limited number of breakfast-only tickets are available at lincoln. cbmc.com/events.

Ken Korkow was raised in a ranching and rodeo family and entered the Marine Corps when he was 18. He lived through the 77-day siege of Khe Sanh which was the longest and most deadly battle of the Vietnam War. When blown up, the two fellow Marines that pulled him out both thought he would not live. Later, a doctor said, “You may as well accept this, you’re never going to walk or use your hands again!”

Ken married Liz while he was still in the military hospital and neither of them knew how much Ken had changed. After his medical discharge from the military, the governor of his home state named a day in Ken’s honor as the most highly decorated Vietnam Veteran in South Dakota. Ken has been one of the area directors for CBMC Heartland in Omaha since 1984.

For further information about CBMC Lincoln or the golf classic, visit Lincoln.cbmc.com/events, connect with them on Facebook (@ cbmclincolnne) or call (402) 204-1997. CBMC Lincoln is part of a global ministry that encourages men toward spiritual development, personal integrity, principled leadership and a desire to impact others.

Epilepsy Foundation Recaps Walk to End Epilepsy

The Epilepsy Foundation thanks sponsors, nonprofit community partners, volunteers and walkers for joining them May 13 for a beautiful day at TriFaith Initiative for the 2023 Walk to End Epilepsy – Omaha. They raised over $74,000 to help support epilepsy programs, services, advocacy and research!

The Balloon Brigade provided entertainment, Tom Becka (American Radio Personality) was the emcee and amazing food from three local food trucks kept people from going hungry. The Omaha Fire Department joined in the morning festivities, while local high school cheerleaders cheered on walkers. Stormy from the Storm Chasers and Hoot from Omaha Union made their rounds meeting people and provided entertainment for everyone. It was a fun day had by all while raising awareness and funds for epilepsy!

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.

CEF of Nebraska Announces First Annual Good News Run September 16

Child Evangelism Fellowship of Lincoln (CEF) will host its first annual Good News Run on Saturday, September 16. The event will take place at Holmes Lake Park at 9 a.m. They are having a run to help spread the word about Bible Clubs in public schools.

Their goal is to have a Good News Club in every school in Lincoln so over 40,000 kids can have the opportunity to hear the Good News of Jesus throughout the school year. Come help show your support for the Bible being in schools and come learn how you and your church can be a part of helping get the Bible back into schools. If you have a kid that attends a Good News Club, wear your Good News Club shirts and come run for FREE (with a parent entry). Registration is open at www.raceentry.com/races/good-news-run/2023/register.

The Good News Club is a dynamic Bible club that meets once a week right after school. Each club features snacks, prizes, songs, an exciting Bible lesson, a mission’s story, review games or other activities. They are led by trained Christian teenagers and adults. Child Evangelism Fellowship is a Bible-centered, worldwide organization composed of believers whose purpose is to evangelize boys and girls with the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ and establish them in the local church for Christian living. For more information, visit cefnebraska.org.

Lincoln Children’s Museum Joins Museums for All Program

The Lincoln Children’s Museum is thrilled to announce its partnership with the Museums for All program, solidifying Lincoln’s position now as a HUB city of educational and cultural experiences through this program.

Effective June 1, visitors can show their SNAP/WIC EBT card and receive $3 admission per person up to four people in their group at the Lincoln Children’s Museum through the Museums for All program.

Tara Knuth, the executive director of Lincoln Children’s Museum, expressed her enthusiasm about joining the Museums for All program, stating, “By becoming a participant in the Museums for All program, we are taking a significant step towards breaking down financial barriers so that more families can access the educational resources and experiences we offer.”

In addition to the Lincoln Children’s Museum, two other notable Lincoln institutions, the University of Nebraska’s State Museum Morrill Hall and the International Quilt Museum, are also participants in the Museums for All program. To become a HUB city, Museums for All requires a minimum of three participating museums within city limits.

For more information about the Lincoln Children’s Museum and its partnership with Museums for All, visit www.lincolnchildrensmuseum. org/museums-for-all.

Volunteer Training August 21-25 for Voices of Hope

Are you in interested in volunteering with Voices of Hope? Volunteer training will be provided August 21-25 from 8 to 5 p.m. Contact their volunteer coordination for an application or additional information at Lizeth@ voicesofhopelincoln.org.

Voices of Hope has been a vital part of our community for over 40 years.

Voices of Hope began in 1975 when the Lincoln Coalition Against Rape, a campus/community group, organized and began to provide a crisis line and support services for victims of sexual assault. Before long, the group also began providing services for victims of domestic violence. Their vision is that all victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, as well as their families and communities, receive responsive, empowering services and support that meet their needs, both individual and cultural, through advocacy and education aimed at eliminating recurrence, challenging oppressive social institutions and reducing violence and oppression.

Voices of Hope provides services to all genders who are victims to domestic violence, sexual assault, sex trafficking, incest or other forms of abuse. They also assist victims’ families and supporters. All services are free and confidential. Learn more at voicesofhopelincoln.org.

City Impact to Host Kingdom Sports Pass It On

Camp July 10-12

City Impact (CI) is excited to offer a unique blend of faith, fellowship and athletic activities this summer through Kingdom Sports Pass It On Camp July 10 - 12. In partnership with Ron Brown and Kingdom Sports, CI Sports will provide a positive and Christ-centered environment where athletes can develop physically, emotionally and spiritually.

Coach Brown has led these camps for many years in both Nebraska and Virginia. He will focus on teaching fundamentals plus how to integrate Kingdom (biblical) principles with sports. All parents are encouraged to attend and learn tips on coaching their children.

Football is open to boys in third through eighth grade. Volleyball is open to girls and boys in third through fifth grade. Reserve your child’s spot at cityimpact.org/ci-sports.

For more than 24 years, City Impact Sports programs have been making a difference for under-served Lincoln families. City Impact in Lincoln is a faith-centered nonprofit that empowers under-resourced communities through holistic youth, family and neighborhood development. For more information about the series, sponsorship opportunities or how to invest in the mission of City Impact, visit www.cityimpact.org.

Tabitha’s S2age Living to Offer Public Hard Hat Tours July 20

S2age Living by Tabitha – nonprofit Tabitha’s intergenerational living community – is opening its doors to the public for the first time with hard hat tours.

Excitement is building around the first-of-its-kind in the nation complex located in the heart of Lincoln’s Witherbee neighborhood. From 4 to 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 20, visitors will receive a sneak peek of life at the S 2age while embarking on tours of the building, which is under construction. Guests are encouraged to RSVP and must check in before their walk-through at the tent located at the corner of ‘L’ & S. 47 St.

Those interested in move-in information will be able to further discuss living options with a Tabitha advisor.

Opening in August, older adults (55+) and College of Health Science students will call S2age home. The 150,000 square-foot community contains 128 micro, studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments equipped with top-of-the-line appliances, in-suite washer and dryers and premium finishes. Intentional gathering spaces can be found inside and out, along with curated experiences meant to be shared and enjoyed between generations.

Reserve your spot today, as space is limited. RSVP by July 16 by contacting Tabitha Living Advisor Manager Aubrey Paulsen at Aubrey. Paulsen@Tabitha.org or (402) 484-9981.

Supporting families since 1886 across Nebraska,Tabithaoffers a range of services, from results-driven rehabilitation, accessible athome home health care, innovative living communities, resourceful serious illness support and compassionate hospice services. Tabitha is Your Answer; learn more at Tabitha.org.

S2age Living by Tabitha will open to its first Residents in August 2023, containing a variety of living options, gathering spaces to harbor connections between generations and a beautiful campus with activities for all ages.

Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska Launches New Peer Mentorship Program

The Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska (BIA-NE) is excited to announce the launch of its Peer Mentorship Program. Modeled and adapted from a successful program by the Brain Injury Alliance of Colorado, the program connects people who have experienced a brain injury with others who have gone through similar situations in a one-on-one mentoring relationship. In the orientation, individuals will learn about the program, receive answers to questions and provide information about their goals, needs and why they are interested in being mentored. Once the Program Coordinator understands the individual’s situation, she will work to match the participant with a mentor who can relate to them on a similar level – someone who may have had a similar injury or similar symptoms after their injury and can act as peer support. Upon connecting with a mentor, participants will get to know each other, set goals, set expectations and how often to meet. BIA-NE expects most mentor relationships to last up to six months to a year to meet the goals set in the beginning. Individuals interested in the program can learn more at: www.biane.org/ events/peer-mentorship-program.html.

The Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska was founded in 2009 to create better futures for all Nebraskans through brain injury prevention, education, advocacy and support. For more information, contact Executive Director Peggy Reisher, MSW, at peggy@biane.org or (402) 890-0606.

Branched Oak Observatory Opens New Gift Shop

The Branched Oak Observatory (BOO) is expanding. The new Kunkel Family Multipurpose center will house a state of the art classroom, astronomy library, handson meteorite collection and astronomical artifacts. Also added to the facility is a network of wide sidewalks for easy access to all the viewing pads and buildings. They will be ADA compliant by summer’s end in all of their buildings, including handicap accessible restrooms in their multipurpose center. Additionally, a new addition is their new gift store with a bevy of STEM kits and merchandise to complement the visit. They will have BOO gear in t-shirts, hats, drinkables and more. So whether looking at the night sky, through telescopes, talking to astronauts on the International Space Station or talking to the moon with Earth Moon Earth, the Branched Oak Observatory is your destination for fun and education. They are open every weekend throughout the summer 7-11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday evenings and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Solar Sundays.

Established in 2015, the Branched Oak Observatory is an astronomy park located just southeast of the Branched Oak Recreation Area, 20 miles outside of Lincoln. They offer a wide variety of experiences, including classroom activities, solar viewing, nighttime viewing, space communications with satellites and the ISS and the newly installed Earth Moon Earth. For more information, you can visit www. branchedoakobservatory.com.

CINCF Celebrates 70 Years of Service to Nebraska’s Private Colleges and Universities

The Council of Independent Nebraska Colleges Foundation (CINCF) – officially founded July 15, 1953, as the Nebraska Independent College Foundation (NICF) – is excited to be celebrating 70 years of service to Nebraska’s private colleges and universities.

CINCF is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to making excellent higher education opportunities accessible to students from diverse backgrounds and communities. CINCF supports the missions of its 13 member institutions and promotes the high quality and affordability of member colleges to prospective students and their families.

CINCF’s 13 member schools include Bellevue University, Bryan College of Health Sciences, Clarkson College, College of Saint Mary, Concordia University, Creighton University, Doane University, Hastings College, Midland University, Nebraska Methodist College, Nebraska Wesleyan University, Union College and York University.

An event will be held in late August to celebrate CINCF’s 70th anniversary milestone. They hope to see you there! For more information about CINCF, please visit cincfoundation.org.

Virtual Appointments Available at Family Health Services

Family Health Services Inc. works to mitigate extreme gaps in healthcare, in part by providing affordable, accessible telehealth services. They are one of six agencies across the state participating in a pilot program by Nebraska Family Planning to bolster Nebraska’s capacity to provide sexual and reproductive health services through virtual care.

All Nebraskans deserve access to healthcare that enables them to live healthy, fulfilled lives. Yet for many people in our community and region, access to care is neither readily accessible, nor convenient. Some folks must drive an hour or more for regular prenatal checkups. Others wait weeks to see a provider to renew their birth control prescriptions or receive other essential sexual healthcare. People who need care can schedule a virtual consultation for birth control, sexually transmitted infections, wellness exams and female reproductive health concerns. Their office provides care to all people, regardless of income or insurance status.

Family Health Services, and other experts, don’t anticipate the gap in OB/GYN care throughout the state closing any time soon. The expansion of affordable, accessible virtual care is needed today. This pilot program is a much-needed first step to help more Nebraskans access high-quality sexual healthcare when and where they need it. Contact Family Health Services today for a telehealth or clinic visit at (402) 466-1012. Visit www.lovesafely. com for more information.

Domesti-PUPS Hosts Puppy Yoga July 11

Domesti-PUPS is excited to host a second session of puppy yoga Tuesday, July 11, after several requests upon the filling of the first session July 8. Everyone is encouraged to bring a friend and yoga mat to love on goldendoodle puppies. They have 11 goldendoodle puppies; the majority they hope will be selected for future service dogs.

The event will be held at the Domesti-PUPS building. The cost of a ticket is $20, which counts as a donation for Domesti-PUPS. To purchase tickets and reserve your spot, visit domesti-pups.org/puppy-yoga.html.

The costs to acquire, maintain and place these highly skilled canines is quite high—veterinary costs alone are over $2,500 a month as Domesti-PUPS has over 40 dogs in their care at any given time. These dogs receive quality care and require extensive testing to ensure they are healthy enough to do their future jobs.

Domesti-PUPS is a service organization that provides assistance dogs for persons with disabilities, pet therapy programs, classroom dogs and educational programs and a rescue dog training/adoption program. It’s their hope that this event will help the general public better understand and appreciate the many ways that dogs enrich our lives. For more information, email info@domesti-pups.org or visit domestic-pups.org.

Humanities Nebraska Announces “What Connects Us” Festival for July 21-22

Humanities Nebraska (HN) has announced that the Stuhr Museum of Grand Island will host a special edition of Nebraska Chautauqua

July 21-22 in celebration of HN’s 50th anniversary year. Popular Chautauqua scholars from previous events will return to the traditional big tent to explore the theme, “What Connects Us.” This festival will include family-friendly events, engaging workshops and Chautauqua-style presentations that allow audience members to interact with historic figures. All events are free and open to the public.

On Friday evening, July 21, Warren Brown will appear as American humorist and author Mark Twain as he did in 2012-2015’s Nebraska Chautauqua, “Free Land? 1862 and the Shaping of Modern America.” Karen Vuranch will join him as author Edith Wharton, whom she portrayed in “World War One: Legacies of a Forgotten War” from 2016-2018. Saturday evening, July 22, will see the return of Becky Stone as Civil Rights activist Rosa Parks from 2019-2022’s “The Fifties in Focus.” She will be joined by Taylor Keen, reprising his portrayal of Chief Standing Bear from the “Free Land?” Chautauqua.

During the day on Saturday, all four scholars will conduct workshops at Grand Island Public Library. A complete schedule of all speakers and community events during and prior to the 2023 Nebraska Chautauqua will be posted online at www.NebraskaChautauqua.org.

Humanities Nebraska is a statewide nonprofit that is celebrating 50 years of helping people explore what connects us and makes us human. HN is funded in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities, an appropriation from the Nebraska Legislature, private donations and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment. Visit humanitiesnebraska.org for more information.

Nebraska Statewide Arboretum Names Woods ParkaLandscapeStewardAffiliateSite

Nebraska Statewide Arboretum

(NSA) wants to give a huge shoutout and congratulations to Woods Park, located at 33rd and O St., for recently being named a Landscape Steward Affiliate.

The park features four pollinator habitats, prolific prairie plantings and numerous mature and newly planted deciduous and coniferous trees, which make it an ideal NSA Landscape Steward Affiliate Site. The local Woods Park advocacy group, Woods Park: Keep It Green, initiated the Landscape Steward Affiliation Site process with NSA. Going forward, NSA and Lincoln Parks and Recreation will collaborate with Woods Park: Keep It Green on continued sustainable landscape improvements to the park. Take a look at NSA’s Facebook (@NeArb) to see some beautoful photos of the location, or better yet, take a look in person and visit Woods Park for a picnic or a walk.

The Nebraska Statewide Arboretum plants Nebraska for healthy people, vibrant communities and a resilient environment. The organization offers resources to help Midwest gardeners improve their home and community landscapes, encouraging plants and landscapes that are beautiful and beneficial for individuals as well as the larger environment. To learn more, visit plantnebraska.org or contact the Arboretum staff at (402) 472-2971 / arboretum@unl.edu.

Catholic Social Services Most Needed Items for St. Louise Gift & Thrift

Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska seeks donations at their St. Louise Gift & Thrift Store. The most needed items include comforters, jewelry, men’s jeans and purses. To donate, please bring new and gently-used items to their back doors during store business hours. This will ensure you and your items are treated in the best possible manner. For complete donation information and guidelines, visit csshope.org/thriftstoreneeds.

St. Louise Gift & Thrift is one more way CSS brings Hope in the Good Life while elevating the dignity of the person. Individuals who cannot afford items can apply to receive items for free through CSS’s Emergency Services programs in each of their outreach offices. All of the merchandise at St. Louise Gift & Thrift has been donated by generous supporters.

Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska is the charitable arm of the Diocese of Lincoln, serving all people regardless of faith in the southern third of Nebraska. The goal of serving people is to serve them with dignity, to love people as best they can and to meet their needs to the fullest. Their services cover 24,000 square miles, offering charitable assistance through the food market and meal services and emergency services, refugee resettlement and immigration help, clothing and thrift stores, family and individual counseling services, St. Gianna Women’s Homes and emergency housing. Connect, donate or volunteer at csshope.org.

Virginia’s Cafe Helps Lincoln TeamMates Celebrate Mentors

Each June, Lincoln TeamMates holds a breakfast to celebrate mentors of graduating senior students. These very special mentors have walked side-byside with their mentee, in some cases since third or fourth grade, until they graduate from high school.

“We love to show appreciation to these amazing mentors!” exclaims Audrey Watson, Lincoln TeamMates match support specialist. “Virginia’s Cafe providing this great breakfast is incredible!”

Virginia’s Cafe owners, Mark and Tracy Von Busch, embraced the opportunity to encourage these mentors, saying, “It’s a pleasure to provide the breakfast for this year’s event because mentoring is so important to our community.”

As people ate fabulous food, mentors received great kudos. Graduated mentees, school facilitators, TeamMates staff and TeamMates co-founder, Tom Osborne, praised the mentors for their years of dedication to their mentor/mentee relationship.

Audrey Watson sums it up, “The mentor breakfast is a huge win, and it feels great to call attention to people who are making a positive impact on our students and community!”

TeamMates Mentoring makes a meaningful impact in the local community and beyond by inspiring youth to reach their full potential through mentoring. Matches meet once a week in school during the academic year. For more information about TeamMates and becoming a mentor, please visit LincolnTeammates.org.

BUILDING THE FUTURE

Guiderock Commercial Realty LLC is a full-service commercial real estate firm. Guiderock works with a variety of clients including local business owners needing spaces as well as investors buying and selling properties. The company also provides property management services to help investors get the most value out of the properties they own.

Changes in the commercial real estate industry are frequent. The past few years have seen a variety of economic changes and technological innovations that have changed how both Guiderock and its clients work. Guiderock is a strategy partner for clients, continuously monitoring industry activities to give strong advice about what paths to take and when so that clients can overcome challenges and reach their goals.

“Our clients have a broad range of backgrounds. Some are very experienced with commercial real estate, and some are brand new. We’re here to help regardless of the starting point,” said owner Cathy Kottwitz. That help can include flexible strategies during times of change as well as longterm strategies during times of stability. The clients that Guiderock has helped have included those moving into Lincoln from other communities, growing into larger spaces, purchasing their first commercial property, expanding their portfolios and repositioning assets for future growth.

Guiderock Commercial Realty wants to make commercial real estate understandable and approachable wherever possible, which is why last year the company wrote the Tenant’s Guide to Leasing and Investor’s Guide to Commercial Real Estate. Particularly for clients who are new to commercial real estate, these resources answer many of their questions and make them more comfortable with taking the next step toward their goals.

Guiderock also connects clients with other service partners to help with financing, construction, legal advice and other business needs. “One of my clients was getting ready to start looking for a building to buy so they could move from leased space into one they own. We talked about whether SBA financing might be a good option, and they took the information I gave them to their banker,” said James McCombs, sales associate at Guiderock Commercial Realty. “Ultimately, this sped up their process because financing was more favorable.”

“We expect continuous changes in the industry, but we always take the long view that there’s opportunity in commercial real estate somewhere, so we’re pretty excited about Guiderock’s future,” Kottwitz said. “We have plans already in the works for some new tools that we’ll be putting in place that will help our clients make decisions more easily and connect them to more opportunities. We are also working on plans for additional staff so we can help even more businesses and investors in the area.”

Founded on principals of community and economic development, Guiderock Commercial Realty is also engaged with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and its affiliated programs. Cathy Kottwitz also serves on the board for The Bridge Behavioral Health, and Guiderock has been a supporter of the Garden Party fundraiser benefiting DomestiPUPS for several years. “Helping build successful businesses is only part of what we do. We want to also build a strong community that we can all be a part of,” Kottwitz said.

Last Month Recap

We're saying goodbye to June and heading into the heart of summertime. With the heat rising and vacations rolling, we're settling into the new season nicely. Last month for our networking event, we took a break from Friends4Drinks and had an amazing time at Friends4Lunch. We got together at one of our favorites, Vic's Pizza, and crowded the buffet for some fresh slices. Some of us ordered off the menu and discovered the Magik Sauce wings - they are truly made with magic because we were obsessed! You can't go wrong with one of Lincoln's best pizza spots. Thank you so much to everyone who joined us.

We're flipping the script on July and ONLY hosting Friends4Drinks this month! Don't worry, we'll be back in full swing in August. We're going to treat ourselves with drinks at Mi Tierra Family Mexican Restaurant's northeast location at 8320 Northwoods Dr. on Friday, July 14 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. I think we're all looking forward to the Blue Margarita on their Friday Happy Hour Menu or their amazing Sangritarita - a perfect combo of summer drinks!

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

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

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

James Arthur Vineyards has produced a wide variety of award-winning wine for 26 years, all of which are made from American Cultivars and French Hybrid grapes. This means everything planted is winter-hardy and meant to be grown in areas with shorter growing seasons. Some of these grapes include, Edelweiss, LaCrosse, St. Croix and Vignoles - just to mention a few. The difference between these and Vinifera grapes, i.e. Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, etc., is that everything James Arthur Vineyards plants have everything they need to survive the harsh Nebraska winter temperatures and shorter growing seasons. Grown and produced here in Nebraska, the winery offers the finest of table wines. James Arthur Vineyards is the largest and oldest operating winery in the state. You can find anything from barrelaged reds to crisp whites and delicious dessert wines, and everything in between. The best way to find a wine that satisfies is to come to James Arthur Vineyards for wine! James

Everyone is encouraged to sample from a wide variety of wines to find the ones that suit you the best. Whether drinking at a party or settling in by a warm crackling fire on a cold winter day, you can’t go wrong when sipping some of Nebraska’s finest wine.

If you aren’t in the mood for wine, try CurveBall Hard Cider - made from only the finest apples, our cider knocks it out-of-the-park with their line-up of great flavors. They believe a great cider should be like a warm sunny day at the ballpark. And with JAV’s Curveball Cider, they think they’ve come up with a hard cider that pays homage to the timeless game of baseball. Their family’s 3rd generation has now become involved in the winery, making JAV a true family endeavor. Built on passion, dedication and oldfashioned hard work, JAV has built a business Nebraskans can be proud of. After all, this is their home, love and livelihood. From their family to yours, some of the finest wine in Nebraska!

2001 West Raymond Rd., Raymond, NE 68428

Hours (Nov 1- Mar 31) MON

Hours (Apr 1 – Oct 31) MON-THURS

by Jason Ball President

2023 Legislative Session: A Time of Progress & Priorities for Lincoln

The 2023 Nebraska legislative session was a pivotal time for lawmakers to address issues, shape policies and make decisions impacting the lives of all Nebraskans. This year’s session included pieces of legislation aligning with our 2023 Chamber policy agenda, our Vitality Lincoln strategic plan and priorities outlined by our community consensus group, which included Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird, members of the Lincoln/Lancaster County delegate of state senators and other business leaders.

Several key legislative issues, included:

Tax Competitiveness – As a top business advocacy objective throughout the past several sessions, state elected leaders have made great progress on our state tax competitiveness, including both individual and corporate income tax relief and property tax relief. This year, our state leaders identified a path forward that delivers accelerated tax relief for Nebraskans, including the exemption of social security income from tax, which has been a central objective of our Chamber tax reform agenda. Governor Jim Pillen’s tax plan will position our state among other lower-tax states, ensuring Nebraska remains competitive for jobs, talent recruitment and ongoing economic vitality.

State Funding for a Downtown Convention Center – Backed by support from the Lincoln Chamber, Visit Lincoln, Downtown Lincoln Association, Downtown Rotary and other partners, funding for a downtown convention center was another key objective. Together, our community consensus committee lobbied to re-activate the Convention Center Facility Financing Assistance Act, which would return a significant amount of state sales tax revenues derived by sources near the new development. As outlined in our Vitality Lincoln strategy and supported by the results of a recently commissioned feasibility study, adding a downtown convention center would have a significant economic impact on our local economy and tourism.

Secondary Source of Water – This session also included the introduction of several bills, known as Water 2.0, to meet the long-term need of securing a secondary water source. The final recommendation of the Water Source Advisory Council was to secure a well-field to draw ground water from the Missouri River. The Lincoln Chamber board of directors adopted a support position for this recommendation shortly after it was announced, as it is critically important to the long-term sustainability of our community.

Affordable Housing – Several bills were introduced to address our shortage of affordable housing, aiming to increase the funding of affordable housing programs, provide incentives for developers to build affordable housing units and improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Prioritizing affordable housing is crucial to the ongoing growth of our community, impacting our ability to recruit professionals and fill our talent pipeline.

On behalf of our Chamber team and board of directors, I extend my sincere gratitude to both our local and state elected officials for their commitment to ensuring our state remains a great place to work and do business. To learn more about our Chamber policy agendas and our Vitality Lincoln strategic plan, please visit our website at lcoc.com.

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.

DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION

by Todd Ogden, President

(402) 434-6900

• downtownlincoln.org

A Downtown Hidden Gem: The Framing Company

Nestled on 13th and N, right next door to Metro Gallery sits The Framing Company: A quiet, yet vital part of Downtown Lincoln. Since 1978, formerly “The Darkroom & U-Frame-It,” The Framing Company has been around for over 40 years, originally in the building next to Spaghetti Works.

Kevin Sullivan has been the owner for the past four years but has been working there for over 20. Sullivan has spent much of his life working at The Framing Company. Sullivan earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1999.

“Endurance is what got me here,” Sullivan joked. Sullivan’s most immense feat was framing a 4’x 6’ canvas, but no job is too big for The Framing Company.

Founder, Steve Petsch passed away in March. The Framing Company held a celebration of life ceremony in his honor.

“We worked together over twenty years,” Sullivan said. “I had to do something for him, this was his shop, he started this.”

Petsch’s Celebration of Life was held on May 28.

Petsch helped pioneer First Fridays in Lincoln. When The Framing Company opened its doors, Petsch would host classes for budding photographers. This was when there was still a Darkroom in the back of the store.

A while back the crew renovated the space to help with storage as the business demands grew. The Framing Company’s focus is the entire framing process. They help with matting, choosing the right frame and mounting the final product.

When you walk into The Framing Company, you can feel its rich history. The Framing Company is covered floor-to-ceiling in vintage posters, art prints and originals; there is something for everyone.

“You get the feel from a person once they walk in, that and the design eye,” Sullivan said. “Throughout the years, I’ve come to learn less is more.”

Sullivan’s passion didn’t use to be framing, but now it’s his livelihood. Sullivan said he loves to showcase the art, vintage posters and obviously the frames, as a sample of his finished product.

“Sometimes I’ll find something I like next door, or a customer next door will come here,” Sullivan said. “It’s pretty nice having an art gallery next door.”

The framing process is niche and very intricate. The Framing Company has international manufacturers for any project. This helps clear the mystery of why framing is so pricey. It doesn’t necessarily have to be! It’s a matter of the cost of the materials, labor and overhead.

The Framing Company is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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

by Bud Synhorst, President

A Win for Schools…How About for Taxpayers?

If you were paying close attention to the Nebraska Legislature this year, you may wonder what happened or if anything good came from the session. I completely understand your dilemma pondering the outcomes of this session. With the end of session looming, we witnessed several different omnibus bills, or as some call them, “Christmas Tree” bills. This is where several bills are added as amendments to another bill. In some cases, there were 20-plus bills combined into one bill. Through this process there were even questions of whether the “single subject” rule was being followed. In the end, there were bills from the same committee put together to “get something done.”

One bill of interest, which LIBA supported, was LB 583. The statement of intent from the introducer says, “LB 583 would invest in Nebraska’s kids through the following mechanisms:

• It inserts $1,500 per-student foundational aid within the TEEOSA (state aid to schools) formula; and

• It expands state funding for special education by filling the gap between existing federal and State support and 80% of a district’s anticipated expenditures for special education. This function is outside of the TEEOSA formula.

The foundational aid per student is a great win for every student across Nebraska. This means whether a student is going to school in Lincoln or Chadron, there is aid provided by the State to help cover the costs of educating the student.

The discussion around property tax relief always includes questions on how much more funding the state will provide to meet its obligations to our students. LB 583 does that, where the state is providing aid for every student in Nebraska, including special education. What does this mean for the local taxpayer? Great question! The ultimate decision will be up to local school boards to decide on their property tax asking and thus, the levy taxpayers will pay will be based on their recent valuation. The ultimate decision on how much to levy in property tax will be determined by the Lincoln Public Schools Board of Education later this year. Based on this new foundational aid provided by the state, conventional wisdom would be to expect a significant decrease in the property tax asking by LPS, which will require a significant decrease in the levy charged to each taxpayer. Over the course of the next few months, LPS will be working through its budget process with each of the schools and departments to set their final budget. It is our responsibility to make sure we are contacting our elected officials at LPS and encouraging them to remain modest in their budget process to be considerate of those paying the bills – local taxpayers. We must make sure to engage with our elected representatives on the LPS Board to encourage them to work on a budget lowering the property tax levy. On average, valuations in Lancaster County are increasing by about 18%-19%. Now is the time to make our voices heard with our LPS Board of Education. You can find out more about the members of the Board here: www. home.lps.org/board.

Last year, LIBA was the only testifier when the LPS budget was open for comment. The LPS budget is nearly HALF BILLION dollars, and it is our duty to show up to have the conversation with the Board on their budget. Hopefully this year more will be there to engage in the process. Remember, decisions are made by those who show up!

LIBA studies and promotes these types of issues that are important to businessesandourcommunity.Ifyouhaveaninterestinjoining,pleasecall LIBAat(402)466-3419.LIBAmembershipisnotrestrictedtojustbusinesses. Wealsohave“individual”membershipsforthosewhowanttohelpinfluence ourlocalgovernmentdecisions.

Men's Health

Health is something we often put aside until we can no longer avoid the problems that arise. While there are countless great care options available in Lincoln to treat health conditions, there are countless more that can help prevent serious health problems. While we can’t always fully prevent a health problem from arising, there are things that we can do to help keep our health from deteriorating. Regular health check-ups are crucial to ensuring that men are healthy, as many health conditions can go undetected for dangerous periods of time. Rely on the local professionals of Lincoln to help keep you and the men around you healthy.

Dare to be Healthy

Daring Minds Therapy is a women-owned small business that Maureen A. DeRyke, PLMHP, PMSW founded with Sarah Worley and Erica Schroeder in 2018. Daring Minds has therapists who are trained and licensed in dialectical behavioral therapy, drug and alcohol abuse, social work and trauma-related disorders.

Maureen explained that if you’ve decided that you want to take control of your health and feel like you might need some help to get started, set some small goals in your daily life and give yourself time to figure out what works for you, going at your own pace.

“Our mind, body and spirit communicate with us daily as to what is healthy and what is not,” Maureen said. “However, taking that time to listen to our inner voice can be challenging. Pick one or two things that feel achievable at first before moving on to trying other ideas. If there is something that helps you relax, try to find time to fit it into your day. Try to eat regular meals and

Maureen A. DeRyke Daring Minds Therapy

have a balanced diet, as this can help your mood and energy levels—and try to establish a routine around bedtime to help set a regular sleeping pattern.”

Even if you don’t feel like you are struggling day to day, therapy is a great way to keep yourself in check and process any emotions that you may have shut away in order to keep moving forward. Sometimes it takes someone else looking into your mind and what is going on in your life to help you realize that there are things you can work on to improve the quality of your life.

Building Relationships

Lincoln Running Co. has been locally owned and operated by the same family since 1976. Their mission from day one has been to help people in Lincoln find the right shoes and gear to be fit and to keep them active. They employ compassionate runners – some who are extremely talented, some who are your average runner, some who have run a long time and some who are new to it, so that any type of runner that enters the store can connect with the employees. They want their shopping experience to truly be an experience that encompasses everything from shoes, training, nutrition and injury prevention to education and whatever else the customer needs.

They’ve been one of the top 50 Best Running Stores in America for the third time, and as proud of that as they are, they are more proud of their relationship with customers. Having been in this business for 48 years, they have been around the block a couple of times and know feet better than anyone in the area. They know how important that knowledge is and their relationship with the medical professionals in Lincoln and surrounding areas is deep.

“We have the time, the knowledge, the passion and the empathy to help people get moving,” said Ann Ringlein, manager. “We want to arm our customers with everything they need to start a running or walking program for themselves. Lincoln Running Co. has everything from the equipment needed – such as shoes, socks and apparel – to a training program they can take home with them or a walking/ running class to sign up for. We take care of our customers from the ground up!”

Being consistent when beginning an exercise program is the top thing people can do to ensure that they stick with exercising and improve. The second most important factor is finding a group to be accountable to. Lincoln Running Co. regularly offers programs for anyone who wants to get moving – whether you’re a skilled runner or just starting out.

Tobacco Education

Tobacco use can increase the risks of developing or worsening health conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, COPD, cancers, impaired fertility and erectile dysfunction and mental health conditions. It’s bad news for men’s health. As such, Tobacco Free Lancaster County (TFLC) coalition provides resources and education to the community to prevent tobacco use and encourage quitting. Even if you aren’t quite ready to quit, you can call the Nebraska Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) to talk with a quit coach about your options.

The most crucial step men can take is to quit tobacco use altogether. This decision can have a transformative impact on their health and significantly reduce the risk of developing smokingrelated diseases. Men can reach out to healthcare professionals, tobacco quitlines or support groups to get guidance and support for their quit journey. Utilizing available resources and building a support network can increase their chances of success.

Men who successfully quit tobacco often report improved selfesteem, increased self-confidence and a greater sense of control over their lives, positively impacting their mental well-being.

“We believe healing is a collaborative endeavor that requires honest caring without judgment, and we cooperatively assist clients in clarifying their goals for treatment.”

Men’s health can be profoundly affected by stress, but there are various techniques they can employ to manage it effectively starting with quitting tobacco. Engaging in regular exercise, practicing meditation, exploring new hobbies or seeking professional help when necessary are all effective strategies for improving overall well-being and managing tobacco use withdrawal.

According to Sadie Jensen , health educator with the Lincoln-Lancaster Health Department, “It’s important to recognize that while tobacco use may initially seem like a stress reliever, it actually contributes to stress. The use of tobacco triggers the body’s stress response, and the cycle of nicotine withdrawal intensifies feelings of stress, anxiety and depression. By breaking free from tobacco use, men can break this harmful cycle and experience improved mental and emotional well-being.”

Tobacco Free Lancaster County is an initiative of the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department. The coalitions’ objective is to foster a healthier community by eliminating the use of and exposure to tobacco and e-cigarette products. By raising awareness, providing resources and implementing impactful strategies, Tobacco Free Lancaster County strives to create a healthier and smoke-free future for all residents.

A Fitness Journey Program

An awesome gym that works hard to keep you engaged and stick with your goals is Capital City Fitness & Performance . They are a locally owned small business that has been helping the city of Lincoln get fit for the past 13 years. They are home to the only Training for Warriors (TFW) affiliate in Lincoln, which is a group training program that encompasses signature warmups, speed

Ann Ringlein Lincoln Running Co.

Sadie Jensen Tobacco Free Lancaster County

Accepting New and Returning Patients

in Postural Restoration as the basis to evaluate and begin the process of building muscle control and treating the root cause of the problem.

Husker Rehab’s mission is to provide cost-effective holistic rehabilitation and occupational health services that go far beyond what customers expect and to maximize functional outcomes in an attractive and caring environment, as well as to provide the opportunity for preventative care and continued self-rehabilitation through wellness center programs.

Much like a builder starts with a foundation when building a home, therapists at Husker Rehab begin with a postural exam that starts with the foundation and core of the body, the pelvic girdle and builds from there. Treatment of the postural issues that are underlying in a patient is the key to the success of their practice. Once postural neutrality is achieved, the body has a better chance to heal and will respond to therapy methods that promote healing. The use of instruments and modalities such as Graston, dry needling, ultrasound, soft tissue manual mobilizations, electrical muscle stimulation and a variety of other methods are then utilized to progress healing. Once in proper alignment, a specific program is developed to meet the individual’s needs for posture, stability and function, in addition to a home exercise program that allows continued progression at home and patient success. Husker Rehab strives to help individuals that come to their facility get back to doing the activities that give purpose to the lives of their patients.

Husker Rehab is proud to serve the communities of Fairbury, Beatrice, Nebraska City and two locations in Lincoln.

Health in Sight

training, strength training, endurance training, flexibility work and nutrition with a unique motivational approach and welcoming family environment. They know that if you don’t have fun and enjoy the training, you won’t do it. TFW is not designed as a sport or competition, but focuses on you competing against and bettering your body, mind and spirit.

TFW has something for everyone, regardless of your fitness level. Their workouts are designed to help you develop your muscular strength, endurance and the mental fortitude needed to take on the battle of life and reach your fitness goals.

At Capital City Fitness & Performance, they know that fitness is a journey. Good health might come naturally to some, but most have to work at it and consistently strive for progress. According to Owner Mike Bevard , “If you want to be a goalgetter, you’ve got to be a goal-setter!”

When you walk into Capital City Fitness, you can hear sounds of high fives filling the air! The gym has created a strong, supportive environment throughout the years. Mike Bevard is very proud of the momentum Capital City Fitness has built up since opening its doors over a decade ago, and he has no plans of slowing down. They have a philosophy of “Bringing Out the Warrior Within,” so focus on finding your inner warrior!

Recover, Recover, Recover

One of the most frustrating aspects of injury and illness is the feeling of restriction—not being able to do what you used to do. If you find yourself in this situation, we recommend visiting the therapists at Husker Rehab . They will use their expertise

Did you know, according to the Cleveland Clinic, that an eye exam can reveal underlying health issues? Some of these issues include diabetes, hypertension, inflammatory conditions and metastatic cancer. It may come as a surprise, but many optometrists can identify issues such as these through an eye exam, including Lincoln’s own Dr. Dan Novak with Premier Vision.

“The approach I take to ocular health benefits the entire body,” explained Dr. Novak. “We know that our eyes will usually represent a person’s general health. If a person smokes or is in general poor health with diabetes or hypertension, that will reflect in the eyes. By encouraging more preventative care, such as exercise/ diet/supplements, we know that the eyes will benefit as well.”

While it’s extremely important to visit the eye doctor for regular checkups, you should also be taking care of your eyes outside of the optometry office, as well. If you partake in activities such as home repairs or construction, it’s wise to wear safety glasses to keep debris out of your eyes. If you have a desk job, then it’s advised to follow the 20-20-20 rule – take a break every 20 minutes to look at something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Dr. Novak also suggests wearing polarized sunglasses when you’re outside, regardless of what the day’s forecast is.

Premier Vision offers the most advanced diagnostic equipment and optical products that help patients achieve their best vision possible. By utilizing the latest techniques and state-of-the-art equipment, the goal of Premier Vision is to provide an exceptional eye care experience by treating their patients like a member of their own family.

When it comes to men’s health, it is always best to trust those that really care. The experts of Lincoln are here to help you, so let them!

Mike Bevard Capital City Fitness & Performance

Dr. Dan Novak Premier Vision

With warmer weather well underway and hotter temperatures not far off, residential remodeling is at the forefront of the minds of many. Having updated houses equipped for summer activities and curveballs is a must. Now is the time to update ceiling fans and air conditioning units to accommodate the heat, as well as to update flooring, paint and outdoor decks/patios to withstand the wear and tear of summer weather and activities. You would be amazed how far a little remodeling can go towards improving your house visually, structurally and functionally.

Buying a new house, though maybe necessary for some, isn’t a feasible solution for most. You won’t be saving yourself any stress by buying a new house. Buying a new house is expensive. Not only do you have the expense of purchasing the house, which includes home inspection and realtor costs, but the expenses of moving to the new location as well. Buying a new house is also time-consuming and stressful. You’ll spend hours searching for the perfect house online, touring houses on the market and negotiating to get an affordable price. Plus, what are the odds that you are going to find a house that already has every little thing you want? Though it happens every once in a great while, the odds aren’t in your favor.

A much more cost effective solution that allows your family to stay in the same house and neighborhood you know and love is residential remodeling. With residential remodeling, you can update your least favorite components of your house at an affordable rate. You can rethink the flow of your house and improve storage to reduce clutter and stress. Why not fall in love your house all over again? Plus, residential remodeling lets you upgrade without losing all the memories and little quirks unique to the time you’ve spent living there. Remodeling is tailored to your needs and increases the value of your home for later down the line when moving becomes necessary.

Build Your Vision, Build With Quality

With so many different ways to go about residential remodeling available, it can be an overwhelming task. Though smaller projects are a great way to get your hands dirty with some fun DIY, larger projects are often better left in the hands of professionals. Luckily, Lincoln has some of the best professionals that are excited to start working on projects to make your dream house a reality. Whatever you want or need done, Lincoln professionals have you covered!

First things first, to set yourself up for the best remodeling process possible, consider the following factors before making any big decisions.

1. Set a budget. What amount of money can you dedicate to remodeling? Remember, it’s important to leave a little bit of cushion in your budget for if things get more expensive than initially thought. Unforeseen complications happen, and they can happen to anybody.

2. Decide which project(s) is most important. Start with the most important remodeling first to ensure that it fits into your budget. Remodeling doesn’t have to all be done at once, so be sure to get what matters most done first.

Be realistic about your timeline. Great things take time – rushing a project will only lead to more expenses and complications. You have to trust the process and choose a timeline that works for both you and your contractor(s).

Have a design in mind before starting any remodeling. You might be good at winging a lot of things in your life, but remodeling is easier, faster and less expensive when you have an idea of what the space will look like and how it will be used before making changes. Whether this involves Pinterest boards or consulting design specialists, creating a vision for you house is extremely important.

Choose your contractors carefully! Work with people you trust to do a great job. If you want it done right the first time, hire people that really care. Consult various contractors and businesses to see which one is the most capable of making your vision a reality within the timeline and budget in which you need it completed.

If you aren’t sold on residential remodeling as opposed to buying a new house, the professionals of Lincoln are sure to convince you that remodeling can happen anywhere, to both new and old houses. So, why buy a new house if you don’t need to?

One Business, Several Projects

Have several projects you want done but can’t pay for them all at once? With CT Construction you work out a finance plan that works for you! If you’re looking for a company that can handle home remodels pertaining to bathrooms, kitchens or basements, CT Construction is a great option. Additionally, they also specialize in home additions, flooring install and tile. CT Construction is a certified tile installer via the CTEF and is highly educated in Schluter waterproofing systems.

CT Construction is up-to-date on the latest residential trends, incorporating unique storage ideas, backsplashes with complex designs and open floor plans into their newest projects. Their goal is to renovate your current house into your dream home!

If you are considering remodeling your house, Ct Construction recommends preparing by researching ideas of what you want your space to look like. Once you have an idea of what you want, talk to different contractors. Verify that they’re qualified to do the work by reviews, referrals, past work, etc. Also be sure that they are legit to be completing the work and carry insurance as well as are registered with the State of Nebraska. Don’t always go with the one that is the cheapest; you get what you pay for and good quality takes time. Don’t be discouraged by unforeseen issues that may arise. Houses were built in a variety of different fashions; you never know what you could uncover, but trust that the contractor you’ve hired to do the job will assist you through it and complete the final project you’ve been dreaming of.

Stand Out Against Neighbors

If you’ve ever driven around various neighborhoods just to see what the houses there look like, then you understand the value of a fresh coat of paint. Sometimes a fresh coat of paint, whether on the exterior or interior, is all a house needs to look like new again. Walter’s Painting Inc. , a local business that offers efficient, reliable service with minimal disruption to your daily routine. If you want your painting project completed on time and on budget, Walter’s Painting is the business to hire.

Walter’s Painting makes the process simple by providing free estimates and quality prep work, in addition to a consultation after the first coat of paint has dried and a final inspection to ensure the painting job is satisfactory.

“Many remodelers are tempted to simply do the painting work themselves, but this takes up valuable free time that could be spent elsewhere,” said owner Jeff Walters , “We know that today’s fastpaced lifestyle means that most people are just too busy for improvements like painting and plastering, and especially all the prep work. We strive to make the entire process stress and worry-free, in addition to providing premium quality products and services that produce outstanding results.”

It is Walter’s Painting’s mission to ensure that all clients are satisfied and love the finished product of every painting project. They always go the extra mile.

Curb Appeal is Important

Curb appeal can be a big factor for many looking to buy a home. Surely you considered it when buying your house. It’s nice to have a great driveway to show off, and most importantly, use. Concrete Craft of Lincoln understands the importance of curb appeal and is here to help.

Concrete Craft of Lincoln can provide nearly endless solutions to bring your outdoor living space to life through their beautiful concrete solutions for patios, driveways, walkways, pool decks and more. They can transform your patio with exquisite designs and classic looks, or they can banish the boring, plain, gray concrete walkways on your property with stamped concrete in patterns, designs and colors that bring out the best in your surroundings.

A stamped concrete driveway, resurfaced concrete driveway or stained concrete driveway is sure to give your home an impressive entrance and upgrade the overall appearance of your home. With their various stamp patterns and integral coloring processes, Concrete Craft can replicate popular, expensive materials such as brick, cobblestone and natural slate. No matter what outdoor concrete project you want to take on, Concrete Craft will help you transform your space without breaking the bank.

A Fence That Will Last

Empire Netting & Fence likes to take the worry out of buying and installing netting and fencing. With their easy-to-use online estimating tool, they can give you an idea of what your project might cost in a matter of minutes. Headquartered in Waverly, Empire is a locally owned and operated business that does work across the United States and beyond. They are proud members of the American Fence Association and specialize in sports netting, perimeter security and access controls for residential, commercial and industrial projects. Their fence options include wood, vinyl, ornamental aluminum, ornamental steel and chain-link. Specialty products such as windscreens, shade sails, backstops, dugouts, foul poles and padding are also available. Empire stands out above others because of their ability to deliver an excellent product with great customer service at a reasonable cost.

Jeff Walters Walter's Painting Inc.

July is Smart Irrigation Month across the United States and Hunt Irrigation Inc. , the Water Smart Company, has a few suggestions to help Lincoln and the surrounding communities save water.

First, upgrading your old irrigation controller with a WiFi controller allows your system’s output to increase or decrease based on what the controller finds when it takes your base watering program and checks the local weather conditions to adjust accordingly. These controllers can improve your water savings by as much as 35%. Another great water conservation tool which is simple, affordable and very reliable is a rain sensor. These sensors detect rain and tell your irrigation controller to turn off during or at the end of a rain event.

Pressure-regulated sprinklers are also a great way to reduce water consumption. Some Lincoln neighborhoods have water pressures as high as 100psi. Most sprinkler heads operate most efficiently at pressures between 30 and 65psi.

Drip zones are both efficient and discreet. They prevent water spotting around windows, siding and brick and also slows the growth of weeds as the drip zone only waters the plants and not the entire landscape bed.

Since 1997, Hunt Irrigation, Inc. has been exceeding the needs of clients and providing expert services for residential sprinkler systems throughout Lincoln and surrounding communities. They have been successful at providing water-smart irrigation systems and services by remaining finely tuned to the needs, wants and expectations of their clients.

These are just a few of the ideas you can do to improve your existing irrigation system. Thinking of installing a new system or upgrading your current system? Reach out to the experts at Hunt Irrigation to begin!

Fighting the Heat? Pool Prep and Perks

Growing up, every kid dreams of having a pool in their backyard. If you have the space, a pool can be a great addition to your home. Providing unmatched attention to detail, complete customer satisfaction and great service, Strawberry Springs Pool is proud to serve the Lincoln area. They can help you design and build in-ground pools, spas and fountains.

Strawberry Springs is also more than happy to help with pool maintenance. As authorized and trained spa technicians for most brands, Strawberry Springs will repair your hot tub or pool with efficiency and professionalism. The following five tips will help you set up your pool properly so you can enjoy the pool faster and for longer.

1. Remove, clean and store pool cover with cover cleaner deodorizer and perform housekeeping chores such as brushing, vacuuming and emptying skimmer baskets of dirt and debris on a regular basis.

2. Maintain the water level - the water should fill approximately halfway up the skimmer opening.

3. Prepare equipment following the manufacturer’s recommendations.

4. Balance water by taking one quart of pool water to your professional OMNI dealer for a complete water analysis. Follow the dealer’s instructions for balancing the water.

5. Continuously disinfect your pool. Regular sanitation consists of using OMNI Chlorination Stix or one-inch to three-inch tablets in your skimmer or automatic chlorinator. At all times, maintain a free chlorine level of at least 1.0 ppm to continuously kill bacteria.

The Beauty of Brick

For remodelers that are looking for a more historical, classic design to spruce up their home’s exterior, brick is always a stable choice—and has the big advantage of being low-maintenance. Established in 1881, Yankee Hill Brick works with local contractors to supply quality brick of all varieties and colors. Brick is an ideal material for siding and retaining walls and it continues to be a popular choice for its charming aesthetic.

Yankee Hill produces its own clay mixes and high-temperature firing kiln to produce a range of looks for its own brickwork. Yankee Hill bricks are made to be naturally sustainable with natural raw ingredients from Yankee Hill’s on-site mine. Their manufacturing process produces very little waste since rejected bricks are recycled. Plus, Yankee Hill’s products are classified as Certified LEED green products by the U.S. Green Building Council. In addition to their own bricks, they also import a selection of bricks from other manufacturers, chosen to complement the local Nebraska market.

The folks at Yankee Hill Brick pride themselves on offering only the best brick products, something contractors have learned and come to rely on. Their products are specified on many awardwinning projects. The combination of quality, color and pristine makes Yankee Hill Brick an attractive choice for architects.

Interior and Exterior Details

Merritt Concrete carries a variety of products that can help transform your house from the outside in. From adding landscaping rock or mulch around the house to pouring ready-mix concrete for pathways and patios, Merritt can play a crucial role in your remodeling process.

With summer in full swing, Merritt has been seeing many customers updating their backyards. Popular projects include extending patios and adding an outdoor fireplace or fire pit. Customers have been taking full advantage of Merritt’s offerings, which include ready-mix concrete that’s great for patio additions or creating stepping stones as well as landscaping materials such as river rock. Some customers have even been going to Merritt

for backyard entertainment, using their sand for above-ground pools or sandboxes.

“When starting any project or remodel, it’s great to have an open mind,” encouraged Justin Starr , sales manager. “There are so many options out there that it can become overwhelming. We are here to help guide you and help find exactly what you are looking for. Enjoy the process, and enjoy watching your vision come to life!”

Having an open mind about what a space can become is a great approach to residential remodeling. Knowing what you want is great, and paying attention to the little details will make a world of difference for your house. Let Merritt Concrete, get the details right.

Indoor Lighting to Upstage Outdoor Sunshine

It’s summertime, the sun is shining and we are looking to save on our electric bill with natural lighting. The only catch – natural lighting only goes so far. That’s where ABC Electric comes in. Over the years, lighting has become much more than changing out burnt light bulbs; it is truly an art and can drastically change the way your home functions. The LED lighting industry is continuously evolving, helping you conserve energy and save money. ABC Electric has been seeing a growing trend of energyefficient LED lighting and the versatility of the lighting control packages coming together.

According to Project Manager Jon Eicher , “We have done all manners of LED lighting and controls in kitchens and family spaces. We are seeing Bluetooth technology being incorporated into not just control systems but LED lighting as well. LED lighting now has the capability of adjustable lumen outputs or brightness, and color-changing capability integral to the fixture. This sector of the industry continues to evolve.”

Having been a proud member of the Lincoln business community for 90 years, ABC Electric has the experience and knowledge to handle any application. They’re on the leading edge of LED lighting and controls, offering unique and sustainable designs to set your house apart from others.

Flooring,

Flooring, Flooring

Flooring, something that is often due for an update, is pushed to the side by many because of the hassle it proposes. With Underfoot Flooring Solutions , however, updating your floors won’t be a concern. Underfoot Flooring Solutions offers a wide variety of flooring choices for homeowners to choose from, including materials in tile, vinyl, linoleum, laminate, engineered hardwood, LVP, LVT, carpeting and stone.

“The type of flooring you’ll want to put in your house depends on a lot of factors,” said Chad Schlisner, operations manager.

Choosing the right flooring can seem like a daunting task, but Underfoot Flooring Solutions has knowledgeable professionals who are happy to help you decide what will be best for your house. They take into consideration a variety of factors when making this decision: Will the flooring be in a high-moisture area?

Justin Starr Merritt Concrete

Jon Eicher ABC Electric

Chad Schlisner Underfoot Flooring Solutions

Will there be a lot of foot traffic? Do you need a pet-friendly floor? Do you need low-maintenance flooring? Underfoot proudly carries all types of flooring, so you won’t have to worry about running out of options.

One detail that can have a big impact on your house and influence its entire look and functionality is the flooring. Don’t put it off any longer – let Underfoot Flooring Solutions help!

Dreaming of a New Kitchen?

Are you ready to create the kitchen or bathroom of your dreams?

Kitchen Tune-Up specializes in one- to five- day kitchen and bath projects. They offer five different ways to update your kitchen within various investment levels. Their services include the original tune-up, in which your existing wood cabinets are restored in an easy process that typically takes one day; cabinet re-dooring; cabinet painting; cabinet re-facing; and custom cabinets.

“We want to make your kitchen the centerpiece of your home,” said Owner Jason Krueger.

Already have an idea of what you want your kitchen to look like? Using the kitchen design tool on the Kitchen Tune-Up website, you can envision your remodeled kitchen using products from their inventory. This gives the most accurate display of different woods, colors and appliances to choose from. Using this tool can also provide you with an accurate quote for how much the remodel will cost. Not to mention, this tool can also be super fun to use and get ideas for any future renovations. If you’re feeling stuck, Kitchen Tune-Up is more than happy to help offer ideas.

If you want to remodel your kitchen, it is highly encouraged to work with someone like Kitchen Tune-Up who will give you a thorough explanation

of how the whole process will work. They’ll keep you in the loop during the entire journey. After all, it’s your kitchen.

Impress Your Guests

Fresh coats of paint and on-trend aesthetics can help bring a house to life. If you aren’t looking to completely remodel your house, freshly painted walls can buy you some time. Remy Refinishing offers interior painting services, specializing in cabinet painting.

“When you invite people into your home, you want to make sure you are putting your best foot forward,” Owner Jeremy Day said. ”Paint is one of the highest impact things you can do to make your space look beautiful and inviting to your friends and family.”

An interior paint job can last a long time, but eventually it looks dirty, scuffed up and not fresh. This can make your house appear dull or unclean. The world of paint continues to evolve faster than people realize. In the past few years many companies have come out with amazing products that prevent scuffs, are antibacterial, are zero VOC and have many other beneficial properties.

It’s beneficial to ask a knowledgeable painter what kinds of products are out there that can improve the look, feel and functionality of your business. Many painters use the same old products they are used to and never explore new paint technologies that can help you improve your business. Remy Refinishing is committed to evolving and growing with the current trends to provide you a space you can be proud of.

For top-notch paint jobs and top-of-the-line customer service, look no further than Remy Refinishing!

Jason Krueger Kitchen Tune-Up

Jeremy Day Remy Refinishing

If you want your house to be truly unique, you need to add character however you can. One of the easiest ways to spruce up your home is to incorporate tile. Whether adding a kitchen backsplash, entryway flooring, shower walls or an accent wall, tile and stone are excellent ways to tie your house together. The tile and stone that you select to implement into your dream home will make a big difference in the overall appearance and vibe of your house.

For tile and stone needs, Maven Tile & Stone comes highly recommended. The hands-on tile design studio has samples available in their showroom and design center for homeowners who want to get ideas and advice for their remodel.

“We strive to help you pick the best product that will meet the needs and goals of your family’s home,” shared Owner Lizett Nissenson. “We are here to make your process easier, which includes answering the technical questions and doing walk-throughs on projects during non-business hours. Plus, clients that purchase through us are offered my tile design services at no charge.”

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.

“We have the products and expertise needed for every aspect of your home design,” said Lizett. “We’re more than just a tile supplier—we’re here to help your house become a home.”

Light Up Your Newly Remodeled House

If you’re investing in a remodel of your home—or even just a room in it—don’t forget to include lighting in your project plan. The choices are endless, and the effects are well worth the time and money.

“Lighting is one of the best upgrades to consider with any home remodeling project,” said Matt Collins, master electrician with Oak Electric, Inc. “For example, if you are investing thousands of dollars into updating your kitchen, why not invest a little more to install under-cabinet lights to showcase your new space? The same goes for bathrooms. You can install new lighting over the shower or bath area, and you might be surprised how much it showcases your investment.”

Some of the more popular renovations in 2023 include accent lights that accentuate unique architectural features in a home such as lights that illuminate alcoves displaying décor or light fixtures that complement the surrounding architecture and décor.

When upgrading electrical details in your house, it is crucial to know exactly how that change will affect the overall electrical workings of your house to ensure the safety of you and your family.

“Before you start any remodeling project – from getting new appliances to a hot tub to an addition on your home – please have a licensed electrician evaluate your home’s electrical panel to ensure that it can safely handle any and all upgrades.”

If you are a homeowner who is thinking about doing some projects around the house, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts in Lincoln. They would be more than happy to help remodel your house and make your vision a reality! While there are plenty of DIY projects that you can do to improve your home, involving a professional might be just what you need to tie everything together.

Lizett Nissenson Maven Tile & Stone

Matt Collins Oak Electric, Inc.

AtStrictly Business , we believe it is so important to support our local nonprofits. Nonprofit organizations understand the needs of the most vulnerable in our community and work to help support causes many of us connect to. Not only do local nonprofits help enrich Nebraskan life, but they also create jobs and give workers, volunteers and donors an opportunity to be a part of something greater than themselves. When we pitch in to help nonprofits, we’re helping our communities and neighbors and keeping a culture of humanity, art and philanthropy alive.

In this Supporting Nonprofits feature, we’re highlighting a host of Lincoln's most impactful nonprofits, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share their stories and promote the work they do throughout the year. We encourage our readers to keep these nonprofits top-of-mind when choosing how to give, whether it’s money, time or skill.

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, Domesti-PUPS 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.

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 that 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.

Region V Foundation

The mission of the Region V Foundation is to support Region V Services and improve the quality of life for people with disabilities in Southeast Nebraska. The Region V Foundation helps provide services that may not be available through usual funding methods, including day services, transportation, housing, job coaching and other programs and experiences. Region V has been serving the Lincoln area and Southeast Nebraska for over 45 years. We strive for a community where those who experience disabilities are included. By providing tools and resources, we educate the public and connect members of the community.

To learn more, please visit regionvservices.com/foundation or call (402) 471-6400.

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. These emotional support programs allow Angels Among Us to better fulfill its mission of BOTH financial and emotional support.

The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum (SAC Aerospace Museum), in Ashland, is a testament to the rich history and incredible achievements of both STRATCOM and U.S. aerospace technology. The museum’s mission goes beyond mere preservation and display; it’s dedicated to entertaining, educating and inspiring future generations.

The museum’s captivating collection offers a unique opportunity to explore the evolution of aviation and its role in aerospace history. Engaging exhibits, interactive displays and educational programs let visitors of all ages delve into the wonders of flight and the courage of those who have ventured beyond our atmosphere.

The SAC Aerospace Museum’s continued success and impact relies on the support of individuals and the community. Supporters not only help preserve our aerospace heritage but also help ignite curiosity, inspire young minds and shape the future of aviation. Call the SAC Aerospace Museum at (402) 944-3100 or visit sacmuseum.org for more information.

Since 2006, Angels Among Us has assisted over 620 families with over $4 million in support. Gifts of any amount are welcome and encouraged. For more information, contact Angels Among Us at (402) 934-0999 or visit the website at www.myangelsamongus.org.

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, 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, please visit HumanitiesNebraska.org.

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 One Walk – October 1, 2023 at Mahoney State Park

• JDRF TypeOneNation Summit – March 2024, Date & Location TBD

• JDRF One Night Gala – April 27, 2024 at CHI Health Center Omaha

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.

As the state’s quality awardwinning expert for older adults, nonprofit Tabitha empowers people to live joyfully and age gratefully.

Supporting families since 1886 across Nebraska, Tabitha offers a range of services: results-driven rehabilitation, accessible at-home home health care, innovative living communities, resourceful serious illness support, compassionate hospice services and Tabitha Meals on Wheels (Lincoln). For all senior care needs, ‘Tabitha is the Answer.’

Each year Tabitha must fundraise to supplement the cost of Seniors’ care. Medicaid and Medicare does not even come close to reimbursing Tabitha to cover the full cost of care.

Connect with the Tabitha Foundation to learn how you can make a difference today. Call (402) 486-8520 or go to Tabitha.org/give.

People’s City Mission (PCM) 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 for more information. You can also visit www.pcmlincoln.org or @pcmlincoln on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more information.

The White Cane Foundation gives two brand-new clothing outfits (two tops, two bottoms, one pair tennis shoes, two pairs of socks and underwear and hygiene items) to identified children in the Title One elementary schools in Lincoln. In 2019, we started at Belmont and have quickly added 11 more schools to include: Lakeview, Norwood Park, Clinton, Prescott, Everett, McPhee, West Lincoln, Hartley, Huntington, Saratoga and Elliott, bringing our total to serving 12 out of 18 Title One schools in Lincoln. This has happened in less than five years and our work is far from done. Our mission has grown with our community supporting our youth, one student at a time. A child’s job today is to get an education to go out into the world to be their very best selves. We are present now on a weekly basis. “We worry about what a child will become tomorrow, yet we forget that they are someone today,” stated Stacia Tauscher. Learn more about The White Cane Foundation at thewhitecanefoundation.org.

Voices of Hope provides 24-hour 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 48 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 and basic needs as well as 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.

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 some very special lifelong memories. There are still spots available for the following trips: Pigeon Forge, TN, Men’s Motorcross, Colorado Arts, KC Chiefs Game and Branson Christmas. The Arc of Lincoln continues to offer several different educational and social programs for all ages through a United Way grant since 1995. Starting in June 2023, we will be offering a Come Together Art Class taught by UN-L Art Students and made possible through a grant from upstART by Lincoln Arts Council. 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.

One of Lincoln’s largest nonprofit organizations focusing on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility is the YMCA of Lincoln . The YMCA has served the community for over 150 years— promoting positive values through programs that build spirit, mind and body for all. Today, the YMCA 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 YMCA knows that lasting personal and social change comes about when everyone works together. Every day, the YMCA 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.

Through a growing grassroots network of volunteers who hail from every corner or the state, Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) 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.

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.

Founded in 2003, Nebraska Folklife (NF) is a nonprofit arts and humanities organization that serves as the state’s public folk and traditional arts program. Our mission is to foster, sustain and increase awareness of Nebraska’s living cultural heritage. We focus on educating both residents and visitors about the rich cultural diversity and traditional art forms that exist in our state and showing how all Nebraskans contribute to our shared cultural identity.

NF has created portable educational trunks featuring many of Nebraska’s diverse cultures for use anywhere. We assist traditional artists in exhibiting, performing and sharing their work with the public. We partner with ethnic organizations and other groups to host engaging, free community events.

Humans have a knack for passing on traditions, new and old, so please share what you’ve been up to! For more information and to get involved, please visit nebraskafolklife.org.

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.

Learn more at leadershipharbor.com/foundation.

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 its 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 NSA at plantnebraska.org.

“My family’s well-being 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 services. 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:

• Outpatient counseling

• School-based therapy

• Extended day treatment

• Crisis and residential services

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 programs, or to make a gift to support mental health for children and families, please visit hopespoke.org or call (402) 475-7666.

“No one has ever become poor from giving.”

- Anne Frank

The Mourning Hope Grief Center exists to companion children and adults before and after a death loss. Research shows that one in 15 Nebraska children will experience the death of a parent or sibling before the age of 18, which means approximately 30,000 Nebraska children are in need of grief support. Unresolved grief can lead to negative health, education and behavioral outcomes.

At Mourning Hope, children and adults learn to process grief through counseling, reflection and creative expression. Our peerbased support groups bring families together to learn healthy coping methods. Participants are given the freedom to grieve at their own pace. They learn that hope and healing are possible and that no one has to grieve alone.

Mourning Hope’s counseling, community education programs and resources are available at no cost, ensuring all bereaved Nebraskans can access compassionate care. Mourning Hope’s doors are open to you. Learn more at mourninghope.org or call (402) 488-8989.

Through partnerships and collaboration, Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF) facilitates positive change for the common good. LCF’s mission is to inspire our community to give, act and lead.

Since 1955, LCF has been privileged to be part of many wonderful legacies by connecting donor generosity to local needs. The organization serves as a faithful steward for many types of philanthropic gifts and helps donors create lasting legacies of giving. With gifts of all sizes from thousands of donors over the years, the assets of LCF have grown to more than $185 million. LCF has distributed more than $214 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of our residents.

The success of Lincoln Community Foundation is measured by the quality of life achieved for people today and generations to come. Find out more online at www.lcf.org or by calling (402) 474-2345.

Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is dedicated to helping the homeless and near homeless find possibilities when things seem impossible. Our vision is to defeat hunger and homelessness and restore hope! Serving lunch and dinner seven days a week, Matt Talbot is a hunger relief and outreach center. In a typical year, Matt Talbot provides approximately 180,000 meals through onsite prepared meals, emergency food pantries and distribution of donated high-quality food and 45,000 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. Matt Talbot has maintained a four-star Charity Navigator ranking for nine consecutive years, received the 2023 Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics and was recognized for transparency with a Gold Seal on our GuideStar Nonprofit Profile. Learn more at www.mtko.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 Symphony Orchestra (LSO) presents inspiring experiences that welcome all members of our community to discover and cultivate a profound, personal connection with live orchestral music. LSO presents a season of 11 concerts which are attended by 10,000 audience members annually. The season consists of seven classical concerts (including one chamber orchestra concert), two one-hour family concerts, a pop concert and an annual holiday concert. LSO also provides education and community engagement activities that reach more than 13,500 students in more than 90 schools throughout Nebraska annually. This includes our Young People’s Concerts, library partnerships, school visits and an annual Young Artist Competition. In addition, Harmony in Healing, a music and wellness program, presents a series of chamber ensemble performances in healthcare facilities throughout Lincoln. LSO also partners with LPS’s Family Literacy program and other human service organizations through our Social Impact Program to provide free concert opportunities for underserved populations.

For more information, please visit lincolnsymphony.com.

“It is every man's obligation to put back into the world at least the equivalent of what he takes out of it.”

– Albert Einstein

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.

Did you know one in 26 people are diagnosed with epilepsy, or that one 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.

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.

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 Medicine 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 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.

Established in 1992, The Mediation Center fills a unique and important niche in our community. With staff possessing expertise in conflict resolution and consensus building strategies, along with the commitment of nearly 100 extensively trained mediators, over the years thousands of mediations have benefited thousands of individuals. The Center operates on a sliding fee scale and is dedicated to providing anyone in our community access to professional mediation services regardless of their ability to pay.

Mediation is a non-adversarial process for resolving disputes guided by a neutral third party mediator. The Mediation Center is proud of the quality and breadth of their programming and works relentlessly towards achieving a future for our community where mediation is the first option considered to resolve conflict and preserve relationships.

Call The Mediation Center at (402) 441-5740 or go to the website at themediationcenter.org for more information or to request services.

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 lives.

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 wellbeing 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.

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, family support services—which include rent and utility assistance, disaster relief, refugee, immigration services and St. Gianna Program (a program for women and their children escaping violence and domestic abuse). 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 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.

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.

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.

“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.

Community Action has provided over 100,000 poverty-fighting services to over 18,000 individuals in Lancaster and Saunders Counties. To connect, call (402) 471-4515 or visit www. communityactionatwork.org.

Hundreds of children and youth in Lancaster County are victims of abuse and neglect. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Lancaster County is a 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!

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

Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln has helped families build strength, stability and selfreliance through affordable homeownership families like Blanca and her four children.

Habitat strives to help families like Blanca’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.

Habitat Lincoln has partnered with more than 199 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.

Break away from the pack of ordinary after-school programs with Girls on the Run of Nebraska (GOTR), which will celebrate its 20th anniversary next school year.

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.

If you are passionate about supporting local cancer patients in Nebraska who are struggling with both a cancer diagnosis and financial hardship, reach out to get involved.

There are many ways to show your support, including volunteering your time and planning fun events as part of the Impact Guild, sponsoring one of our signature fundraising events like the Mardi Gras Gala or Heartland Golf Classic, or becoming an Impact Partner and having a presence at all of the organization’s events year-round.

Chances are, cancer has had an impact on your life. If you’re ready to provide hope, learn more and reach out at heartlandcancerfoundation.org.

Girls on the Run teams meet twice weekly each season to build skills in goal-setting, communication and decision making while they train to complete a 5K run/walk with other GOTR teams. Since its inception with 11 girls in Lincoln in 2003, GOTR-Nebraska has expanded to serve more than 24,000 girls at 100+ sites across the state.

Teams of third through sixth grade girls are coached by volunteers who help girls put their best foot forward with friendship, physical activity and 5K fun. The GOTR 5K is a celebration of every girl’s hard work, and the entire GOTR experience is valuable to promote physical, social and emotional growth.

“GOTR is an excellent way for my daughter to develop relationships with other children, as well as promote good health and exercise,” wrote one parent. “She absolutely adored her coaches, who were always supportive and helpful.”

To learn more about Girls on the Run, visit www.GOTRNebraska.org.

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 goals-based 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 of sunscreen, toilet paper and Kleenex are needed.

Get involved with Fresh Start by visiting their website at FreshStartHome.org or connecting on social media (Facebook: @FreshStartHomeLincoln; Twitter: @FreshStartLNK). To donate or learn more about volunteer opportunities, contact Amanda at (402) 475-7777 / amandam@FreshStartHome.org.

Filament Essential Services is a nonprofit organization committed to supporting those who serve others. It’s who we are. It’s the backbone of our mission and it’s at the center of the work we do every day. Our focus is providing a foundation of essential services that strengthens the nonprofit community.

SOCS Communication Suite – A

web presence you can manage on your own. The SOCS GO app serves as an extension of your website and enables you to publish new articles and send alerts from your smartphone.

Branding and Video – Collaborate with the Filament creative team to engage your audience with materials that capture your story and reflects your mission.

Data Security – Filament develops personalized data security plans to protect your confidential information and defend your network from cyber security threats.

Tech Support – A team of live IT experts ready to support your team when hardware, software and network issues arise.

Payroll and Bookkeeping – Manages your organization’s finances keeping your payroll and bookkeeping in check.

For more information about Filament Essential Services, visit filamentservices.org or call (402) 219-9600.

“Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others.”

- Booker T. Washington

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 and stroke.

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

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

Family Health Services is a nonprofit reproductive health agency that provides services on a sliding scale fee based on income. We accept insurance, but it is not required. Our primary purpose is to ensure reproductive and sexual health of every individual by offering confident and caring exams, treatment and prevention. Our nurse practitioners are experts in reproductive healthcare providing primary care and preventative health services including wellness exams, birth control consultations, STD testing, pregnancy testing and counseling and women’s gynecological visits. Our office is located at 630 N Cotner, STE 204, close to Gateway Mall. We offer extended hours to serve our client’s needs. Call (402) 466-1012 for an appointment today!

Bridges to Hope is a nonprofit organization serving men and women who’ve been incarcerated. This is done by providing tangible items such as furniture, clothing and household goods, donated by community members. One of the main obstacles we hear about is lack of housing for someone with a record.

For those who have been incarcerated, affordable housing is crucial for their successful reintegration back into society. Bridges to Hope is addressing this obstacle by developing a Tiny Home Village that will provide permanent supportive housing for a total of 20 individuals and/or small families. These homes will range in size between 250-500 square feet, and each will have its own sleeping area, kitchenette and bathroom with shower. Having their own individual home differs from communal living solutions by giving each person a feeling of worth, therefore a great buy-in to their community village.

To learn more, visit our website at bridgestohopene.org.

City Impact is a faith-based nonprofit organization in Lincoln, focused on empowering and equipping kids and families to rise above vulnerable circumstances through a Christ-centered biblical worldview, radically transforming them into who God created them to be. With diverse programs and initiatives, this organization tackles various issues impacting youth and families.

From transitional housing for families to educational opportunities for youth, and from mental health & wellness programs to mentoring and guiding young people toward a brighter future, City Impact’s holistic approach addresses the needs of individuals from all walks of life. City Impact aims to catalyze positive change through core values of community, excellence and a growth mindset. It creates a ripple effect that instills hope, purpose and a sense of belonging in those it serves.

Needs: Weekly literacy tutors, weekly faith program volunteers, donations and sponsorships to help support City Impact’s free community programs.

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 encouragement and accountability and share wisdom.

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.

For more information about City Impact, call (402) 477-8080, email info@cityimpact.org or visit www.cityimpact.org. Follow on Facebook and Twitter to stay connected.

Loaves and Fishes is a small nonprofit whose mission is to provide nutritious food, hygiene products and support to our homeless and near homeless neighbors. We offer free meals each week on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday at St. Paul United Methodist Church in downtown Lincoln. On Wednesdays, we also offer groceries and hygiene products to our guests. We partner with other nonprofits and groups in the community to increase our reach. We provide sack lunches every week to the F Street Community Center that are given to youth in need. Each month, we provide around 250 meals to Havelock Christian Church to distribute during their free clothing give away. We work with SOAP Laundry to provide those in need with free laundry and we have just begun providing free showers at the F Street Community Center. We are able to offer all of these services through the generosity of our dedicated supporters, and are so thankful for everyone who is able to help us help those in our Community who need it the most. For more information, please visit lulusonn.com.

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.

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.

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 biane.org/about.

The Council of Independent Nebraska Colleges Foundation (CINCF) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to making higher education opportunities accessible to students from diverse backgrounds and communities. CINCF supports the missions of its 13 member institutions and promotes the high quality and affordability of member colleges to prospective students. For more information, visit www.cincfoundation.org.

CINCF Board officers are Chair, Greg Hohl (president, Wahoo State Bank); Vice Chair, Dr. Darrin Good (president, Nebraska Wesleyan University); Secretary, Jody Horner (president, Midland University); and Treasurer, Steve Ritzman (president, SR Consulting).

“We are very pleased to have these talented individuals guiding Nebraska’s private college foundation,” said Treva Haugaard, CINCF’s executive director. “Their experience and business expertise will further enhance the educational opportunities available for students.”

CINCF’s 13 member colleges and universities include Bellevue University, Bryan College of Health Sciences, Clarkson College, College of Saint Mary, Concordia University, Creighton University, Doane University, Hastings College, Midland University, Nebraska Methodist College, Nebraska Wesleyan University, Union College and York University.

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.

“Money is not the only commodity that is fun to give. We can give time, we can give our expertise, we can give our love, or simply give a smile. What does that cost? The point is, none of us can ever run out of something worthwhile to give.”

- Steve Goodier

Lincoln TeamMates matches an adult volunteer with a student in grades three-12 to help them realize their strengths, grow hope for their future and to simply be heard. Matches share common interests and/or lived experience. Mentor’s may choose the school and/or grade level that fits best for them. Visits last one class period, once each week and take place at school. TeamMates began in 1991, thanks to Dr. Tom and Nancy Osborne. In 32 years, program outcomes have confirmed their belief that caring adults help students—especially those with multiple life challenges—stay engaged in school, graduate high school and make post-secondary plans. Mentors help students expand their aspirations, develop visions for their futures and realize their full potential. To discuss the benefits of mentoring for associates in your business or to offer donations of food for trainings, reach out by calling (402) 436-1990. You can learn more at lincolnteammates.org.

The Malone Community Center was founded in 1955 through a reorganization of the Lincoln Urban League. Initially founded during a time in history when civil rights for African Americans were extremely limited, the league founders, both black and white, were determined to improve social and economic conditions and increase understanding between all races. They believed that enhanced understanding between all groups of people would create a better community.

For decades, the Malone Center has served neighboring families, youth, seniors and the Lincoln community through programs and initiatives that extend well beyond the community center to uphold their mission to end multigenerational poverty. Their holistic community programming reflects their commitment to advancing equality through education, health initiatives, community outreach, advocacy and leadership development. For more information about the Malone Community Center, please visit MaloneCenter.org or call (402) 474-1110.

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 of individuals with Down syndrome and those who share in their lives through networking, advocacy and support, including Parent First Call, Medical Outreach, Age-based “Stars” Enrichment Groups and the annual Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk.

The 22nd annual Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk is set to take place Saturday, October 7. The event will begin at 8 a.m. at Antelope Park. The Down Syndrome Association for Families partners with businesses in the community to deliver premium sponsorship packages for this event. Attendees can expect to celebrate with 1,000 other supporters with live music, entertainment, face painting, balloon animals, food and beverages.

Become a partner today! Contact Director@dsafnebraska.org for information or visit dsafnebraska.org for details.

The Nebraska Chapter of Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) 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 five–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 Five-Day Clubs go where the children are—neighborhoods, homes and parks.

The Branched Oak Observatory (BOO) 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, a visitor’s center and two buildings dedicated to viewing the night sky. Whether viewing the sun, the moon or deep space star clusters and nebulae, 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.

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 two), 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.

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 January 2024 issue. Please call (402) 466-3330 or email shae@strictlybusinessomaha.com if you are interested in participating!