Strictly Business - June 2021

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LINCOLN • JUNE 2021 TM

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• COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE • SENIOR HEALTH • COMMERCIAL REMODELING CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS • PRG OF WOODS BROS REALTY • AOI CORPORATION • ALLO COMMUNICATIONS • JOHN HENRY’S PLUMBING, HEATING & AIR

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Neemann & Sons

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JUNE 2021 Strictly Business

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Marketing attracts customers

But where do you start?

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• Marketing doesn’t have to be pricey • Marketing is more than just advertising and a website • Marketing is setting goals and targets

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Tax • Payroll • Accounting 402-466-1969 | Cruise-Associates.com Strictly Business JUNE 2021 #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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JUNE 2021 Strictly Business

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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

Events, Events, and More Events!

Do you know what I love? Events! So as and supporting an amazing cause, all in a beautiful outdoor you can imagine, I'm thrilled to see more setting. More information about Domesti-PUPS and the Party in and more events pop up around Lincoln the Garden event can be found online at www.domesti-pups.org. as we emerge from the COVID social We have a handful of other upcoming events that we are hosting drought. Hearing that the Lincoln Chamber as well. If you haven't attended our Friends4Lunch or Friends4Drinks is resuming in-person events was a big events yet, please come to the next one! All local business deal. It's so nice to see my calendar full of professionals are welcome to attend. Friends4Lunch is held at 11:30 ribbon cuttings and networking opportunities a.m. once a month at one of our restaurant client's establishments. again. Strictly Business adopted virtual This month, we'll be going to Asian Taste Thai Restaurant on networking for a stretch of time at the Tuesday, June 8. In addition, Friends4Drinks is an after-hours event beginning of the pandemic, that we've hosted every other month but are but then we were eager to get back into the starting to make it a monthly occurrence. This “It’s so nice to see my swing of things for those who were comfortable month, we will gather at The Kindler's beautiful attending. We wanted to continue supporting calendar full of ribbon Boitano’s Lounge for drinks on the outdoor patio our local restaurant and bar industries with our on Thursday, June 24. Both of these events are cuttings and networking Friends4Lunch and Friends4Drinks events. Other a great way to meet new people, promote your opportunities again.” organizations have been offering in-person business, and strengthen connections within the and hybrid events as well, such as the Lincoln community. More information can be found on Independent Business Association (LIBA), Center our Facebook page (@StrictlyBusinessMagazine) or on page 51 Sphere, etc. Plus, we're seeing exciting concert/performance where our Upcoming Events column can be found. line-ups at the Pinnacle Bank Area, Lied Center, and other local Another "Save the Date" is the morning of Tuesday, June 22, from venues again.

7:30 to 9 a.m. when Strictly Business will host LIBA's Coffee & What is really great is all the nonprofits that are able to host their Contacts. We hosted a coffee last year and had a blast! We're fundraisers again. So many organizations rely on the events they always open to partnering with other organizations and businesses hold throughout the year to raise money for their mission. Strictly to do an event together. Our goal is to help foster connections. We Business has a big place in our hearts for nonprofits—they do so do this in the magazine and through the events we host and attend. much good for our community and cause real, positive change. A My team and I are very proud to be an active part of the Lincoln nonprofit that we have a special connection with is Domesti-PUPS. business community! Looking forward to seeing you at the next event.

We partner with them each year to host our Party in the Garden Fundraiser in early fall. So if you haven't already, mark your Let Strictly Business help you lock in your status as THE EXPERT calendars for Friday, September 10. We'd love to have you join in your industry, utilizing print, the internet, and social media. us for a night of delicious food, creative cocktails, beer on tap, Find out how by contacting Paige at (402) 466-3330. local wines, a live and silent auction, live music and entertainment,

CONTENTS NEWS 4 Business 26 Personnel

34 Nonprofit 47 Health

SPOTLIGHTS 50 PRG of Woods Bros Realty

52 AOI Corporation 54 ALLO Communications 56 John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air

FEATURE STORIES 58 Commercial Real Estate 60 Senior Health 70 Commercial Remodeling 4 Strictly Business JUNE 2021

ASK THE EXPERT 19 ComPro Insurance COLUMNS 20 Star City Six 51 53 55 57

Strictly Business Upcoming Events Downtown Lincoln Association Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Lincoln Independent Business Association

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

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ABOUT THE COVER

Providing a Full Range of Medical Services at Two Lincoln Locations!

In April 2010, Heartland Urgent Care opened its first Lincoln location off of 27th and Capitol Parkway. This year, a second location was opened in the Piedmont Shopping Center at 1265 S Cotner Blvd., STE 41. Since opening, Heartland Urgent Care has grown to the point of seeing over 18,000 patients a year. When visiting either of these Heartland Urgent Care locations, you can expect their dedicated, professional team to be at your service. They are ready to evaluate and treat a variety of minor injuries and illnesses and strive to provide the best level of care. These non-life threatening injuries and illnesses include anything from cuts, sprains, bruises, and fractures to coughs, fever, sore throat, infections, and rashes. They encourage patients who are experiencing potentially life-threatening illnesses or injuries to go directly to the nearest emergency room or dial 911. Heartland Urgent Care also provides preventive medical care such as flu shots, physicals for sports, and COVID-19 testing.

The staff will also help to coordinate higher level of treatment in case a specialist is needed.

The team at Heartland Urgent Care works hard to give patients the highest quality, compassionate care possible. They take pride in their team’s concentrated efforts to put patients and their families first.

They listen to your concerns, diagnose and treat, and then follow up with a phone call after your visit to ensure all is well. Patients are encouraged to find a primary care physician for the ongoing treatment of chronic medical conditions. The staff at Heartland Urgent Care will work closely with your primary care physician by sending information about your treated condition to them after your visit.

Heartland Urgent Care participates with most commercial insurance plans (United Healthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, etc.) as well as Medicare, Medicaid, and Tricare. They also treat workers’ compensation injuries. If you have any questions about your coverage for urgent care services, please check directly with your insurance company prior to being seen. They also offer medical discount options to care for patients without access to health insurance.

Heartland Urgent Care also provides occupational health services for companies of all sizes. These services include pre-employment physicals, drug screens, tetanus shots, and the treatment of workrelated injuries.

Each of these two state-of-the-art facilities accepts the following types of patients who fall into these two categories:

INDIVIDUALS • • • •

Babies (older than 6 weeks) Young children Teenagers Adults

BUSINESSES • Occupational health center that provides corporate services and treatment of worker compensation injuries.

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PRODUCTION TEAM: Editor/Operations Hannah Hundley – Editor@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Writer Diane Gumaer – Office@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Art Director Dillon Crawford – Design@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com SALES TEAM: President/Sales Paige Zutavern – Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Publisher/Founder/Accounting Shayne Zutavern – SZutavern@Yahoo.com

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BUSINESS NEWS Hampton Enterprises Announces Renovations at Meadowlane Shopping Center

Charter Title & Escrow Creates a Hispanic Division to Better Serve Customers Char ter Title & Escrow, a proud Nebraska real estate title company with multiple locations in the state, is excited to announce the formation of a Hispanic Division to further assist Spanish-speaking customers, as well as the realtors and loan officers who often work with this population.

“Omaha and communities across the state continue to become more diverse, and we are happy to invest in the people and the resources it takes to best serve all our customers now and in the future,” said Angela Miller of Charter Title. “We’re excited to be the ones to offer this great resource to the community.”

Hispanics make up the fastest-growing demographic in the Omaha area, which is one of the drivers of this new service offering. While it is being introduced in the Omaha market first, the plan is to grow the division into a multi-person effort throughout the Charter Title footprint to help reach more customers.

Leading this division is Itzel Gonzalez, who joined the Charter Title team in November. Gonzalez moved to Omaha as a teenager so her understanding of many of her Hispanic customers goes beyond simply being able to speak and write the language.

“I can do more than just translate. I lived in Mexico for much of my early life. I know the culture and how a lot of these customers and families will be feeling as they go through the process of buying or selling a home,” Gonzalez said. “I take pride in working with people to make sure they understand the title and closing process so it can be part of a joyous milestone for them.”

Gonzalez has reached out to area real estate professionals during the last few months about what is on the horizon and shared the excitement about the new Charter Title Division. Though Gonzalez works out of the company’s Omaha office, she will be traveling to other offices as she works to market and grow her team in the near future.

“I love building these relationships and getting to know the local real estate community,” she said. “It’s my favorite part of the job. My two messages to people are that I’m excited to officially launch this new venture and my future team will always do what it takes to provide excellent service as part of the mission of Charter Title.”

Charter Title & Escrow is a member of the American Land Title Association and the Nebraska Land Title Association. It is a locallyowned title company with two offices in Lincoln, as well as locations in Omaha, Beatrice, Columbus, Hastings, Plattsmouth, and Nebraska City.

Its experienced team takes pride in having their customers’ backs when it comes to residential, commercial, or new construction transactions. To learn more about Charter Title, visit www.charter-title.net.

6 Strictly Business JUNE 2021

The owner of Meadowlane Shopping Center, Hampton Enterprises, Inc., is in the preliminary stages of planning exterior renovations to the 66,000-square-foot development located at 70th and Vine in Lincoln.

M e a d ow l a n e S h o p p i n g Center, originally built in 1966, has been welcoming patrons for over 50 years, providing convenience and prime retail and office space for lease. The Shopping Center has been an integral part of the Meadowlane neighborhood; anchored by Westlake ACE Hardware, along with many other locally-owned businesses, offering a diverse shopping experience.

With this project, Hampton Enterprises Inc. is proposing to invest over $1 million into the Meadowlane Shopping Center for improvements and to ensure the Center remains a vibrant hub of neighborhood activity benefiting the city and the Meadowlane neighborhood for decades to come. The Meadowlane Shopping Center businesses will remain open during the remodel project, scheduled to begin early fall.

For more information about Hampton Enterprises Inc., visit www. hampton1.com. For Meadowlane Shopping Center leasing information, contact properties@hampton1.com / (402) 489-8858.

FNBO Opens New Location in Haymarket First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) has opened its newest retail banking location at 601 R St., in the Canopy Lofts building in Lincoln’s West Haymarket District, Executive Vice President, Individual Customer Segment Sean Baker announced on May 11. The grand opening of the new location began with a ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce on May 17, which kicked off a week of daily events and offers at the bank.

FNBO’s space on the first floor includes a Retail branch, along with offices for its Commercial Banking and Wealth divisions, as well as Mortgage, and its insurance affiliate FNIC. The branch has a remote drive-thru teller, accessible from the adjacent alley, and FNBO’s combined facilities occupy about 7,000 square feet of the leased space at Canopy Lofts. With this new location, FNBO now has three retail branch locations and one drive-thru-only location in Lincoln and nearly 100 locations across its seven-state service area.

First National Bank of Omaha is a subsidiary of First National of Nebraska. First National of Nebraska and its affiliates have more than $24 billion in assets and nearly 5,000 employee associates.

Primary banking offices are located in Nebraska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota, and Texas. Learn more at FNBO.com and connect with them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram (@fnbo). #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Guiderock Commercial Realty Helps Secure New Omaha Location for Artisan Exteriors Cathy Kottwitz of Guideroc k Commercial Realty represented Artisan Exteriors LLC in leasing space at 10733 Mockingbird Drive in Omaha. Founded by Joshua Conner and Tony Jimenez, Artisan Exteriors offers a full range of residential exterior remodeling services, including roofing, windows, siding, and painting.

“We can help with insurance-claim repairs, but our real focus is helping homeowners bring out the best in their houses,” Conner said. “Our team has construction experience and certifications that mean our customers can be assured they have quality products and installation. Our reputation is truly built on the workmanship we bring to your home.”

In addition to residential services, Artisan Exteriors provides commercial roof installation and repair: “A well-maintained roof is critical for any building,” Conner said. “We can work on most commercial roof types, and we work proactively with commercial property owners to inspect and maintain roofs and protect their investments.”

Guiderock Commercial Realty is a Lincoln-based commercial real estate firm providing services for business owners and investors. For more information, visit www.guiderockrealty.com or contact Cathy Kottwitz at (402) 421-7474 / cathy@guiderockrealty.com.

AKRS Announces Partnership with Alumni Association for Naming of Champions Club On April 29, AKRS Equipment announced a partnership with t h e N eb ra s k a A l u m n i Association for exclusive naming rights for the Nebraska Champions Club, the premier Nebraska football tailgating and private-event space across the street from Memorial Stadium. The agreement, which runs through the 2026 football season, created the AKRS Champions Club just in time for the May 1 Husker Red-White Spring Game.

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In addition to the naming rights partnership, AKRS President Kevin Clark, a 1993 Nebraska graduate and former student-athlete on the Husker cross-country and track-and-field teams, indicated AKRS would make a commitment toward creating new opportunities for agriculture education by supporting scholarships for students across the University of Nebraska system.

“The partnership with the Nebraska Alumni Association to create the AKRS Champions Club aligns us with an institution with a shared commitment to success and excellence,” Clark said. “In addition, our scholarship program will deepen our relationships with the communities we serve and the University of Nebraska.”

AKRS Equipment Solutions, based in Lincoln with locations across the state, is the Midwest’s premier John Deere dealership with 27 locations. It formed in 2020 when Plains Equipment Group, Stutheit Implement, and Greenline Equipment joined forces to create the most innovative and forward-thinking dealership in the Midwest. For more information, visit akrs.com or call (402) 269-2241. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS NEWS EXIT Realty to Host Coffee & Connections Open House, Meet and Greet on July 10

HBAL’s Annual Golf Tournament June 4 Kicks Off Series of 3 Foundation Events

EXIT Realty invites local real-estate agents and people potentially interested in the real-estate business to join them for a Coffee & Connections open house and meet-and-greet event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 10. The event will be at EXIT Realty, 8320 Northwoods Dr., STE 500 (between American Nails and La Poloma restaurant). EXIT representatives will share information about their business, including specialized coaching and training services for their agents, and participants will enjoy coffee, tea, and sweets—plus great networking opportunities for local agents!

The Home Builders Association of Lincoln’s (HBAL’s) annual golf tournament, whic h draws about 250 participants each year, will tee up on Friday, June 4 at Highlands Golf Course. The tournament marks the first of three annual events to benefit the Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation, established in 2009 as a 501(c)(3) charitable, nonprofit organization dedicated to the future of the home building industry in Lancaster County.

The Foundation strives to support the community by contributing to community service projects focused on housing, as well as providing scholarships for students pursuing a career related to the building industry and providing funding for other industry related educational programs.

EXIT Realty is a real estate brokerage company that specializes in residential and commercial real estate. Whether you are new to the real-estate business or a seasoned veteran, they offer in-depth training, branding, technology, and culture training and coaching for all their agents, with a goal to arm them with unlimited potential and make them successful in the shortest timeframe possible. For more information, visit exitrp.com or contact Cally Dorff at (402) 466-8181, (402) 840-0720, or cdorff@exitrp.com.

Leadership Harbor Launches Summer Crew Club Remix for Young Students, Grades 3-5 Leadership Harbor Coach Chris Hansen and 12-year-old Dax Howland—World Champion martial artist, spokeskid for the Be the Voice® Anti-Bullying program, and one of the newest members of John Maxwell Team’s Youth Certification— joined forces to organize a Crew Club “Remix” program for students in grades 3-5 this summer. The program will teach the young students about the true “Power of ONE” that arises from encouragement and inspiration. Through a private Facebook group, YouTube channel, and the Leadership Harbor site, the program will deliver weekly content and challenges for Remix Kids to learn from and participate in. Parents, you can listen in and participate, too!

Remix breaks the summer program into three parts: The Power of “I Am,” which focuses on self-esteem and confidence; The Power of “I Can,” which addresses believing and discipline; and “The Power of “I Will,” to learn the importance of communication and respect.

Crew Club Remix aims to deliver three to five pieces of content each week to engage, encourage, and challenge participating Remixers, plus a special Remix swag each month. Kids who complete all three months will also earn a Remix T-shirt and Remix Leader Certificate!

Throughout each segment, Chris and Dax will appear on livestream to share their journeys, lead participants to grow as leaders—and have some fun, too! Students can join for a single month or the entire summer, can participate even when they’re on vacation, and are guaranteed to have an awesome answer to the age-old question: “What did you do this summer?” when they return to school in the fall!

The cost to participate in Leadership Harbor’s 2021 Crew Club Remix program is just $39 a month, or $117 for the entire summer, with discounts available for additional children in the same household.

Register today at leadershipharbor.com/ccremix!

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The second event will also be a golf tournament, put on by the Remodelers Council. This tournament includes fun side games and opportunities to network and will be at Holmes Golf Course on August 20. HBAL switches gears for the third fundraising event and heads to Brainard for the 14th Annual Sporting Clay Shoot on October 8.

This event runs much like a golf tournament, whereby teams of five walk the course of 25 stations trying to hit the most targets. Prizes are awarded for highest team score and individual score.

If you are interested in participating in any of these Home Builders Association of Lincoln events, visit hbal.org or call (402) 423-4225.

Legacy Retirement Communities Airs The Aging Adventure Radio Show Every Saturday In an effort to promote the company’s mission to improve the way people The age and perceive aging, Legac y Retirement Communities began their own radio show called The Aging Adventure.

Each show hosts a variety brought to you by Legacy Retirement Communities of experts, from Legacy employees to other seniorliving professionals in the Lincoln community. Topics range from fitness and well-being to tips about connecting with others and living out purpose, no matter your age.

Aging

Adventure

Hosts of The Aging Adventure include Executive Director of Legacy Terrace and former radio personality John Kopetzky, along with KFOR’s Cathy Blythe and Dale Johnson. The hosts’ history in radio together makes for fun banter and insightful conversation with guests, allowing for an engaging learning opportunity for anyone interested in exploring a different approach to aging. The Aging Adventure airs Saturdays from 8 to 8:30 a.m. on KFOR 103.3FM/1240AM. If you’re interested in becoming a guest on the show, email questions@ legacyretirement.com.

Legacy Retirement Communities continues to provide Lincoln with award-winning elegance, superior care, and countless reasons to live an enriched life. Independent living and assisted living are offered at three locations: The Legacy at 5600 Pioneers Blvd.; Legacy Terrace at 5700 Fremont St.; and Legacy Estates at 7200 Van Dorn St. Memory care is offered exclusively at Legacy Arbors at 3777 N 58th St. Learn more at LegacyRetirement.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Lutz Announces Webinar to Help Businesses Adapt and Enhance Remote Work Policies In light of increased remote working during the pandemic, Lutz is accepting registration for a free webinar aimed at helping business owners create or adapt their remote-work policies to fit changing times.

Stephanie Hand and Chris Bouchard will offer tips and considerations for enhancing associated policies to ensure that employees, employers, and organizations continue to operate effectively, if differently, moving forward. The webinar is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 28. Aimed at business owners, human-resource personnel, and other decisionmakers, key takeaways will include considerations for adopting an effective remote work policy; tools for efficient off-site communication; and tips to keep employees engaged and focused at home.

Lutz is the business solutions firm for people seeking a partner to help energize and heighten financial and organizational success. Born and raised in Nebraska, their experienced team simplifies complexities and provides accounting, wealth management, recruiting, M&A, and technology services. They embrace your business as their own to spark the right solutions, and help you thrive and MIND WHAT MATTERS. To register for the free webinar, visit eventbrite.com/e/ best-practices-for-creating-adopting-a-remote-work-policytickets-148654173635. For more information, visit lutz.us, call (402) 496-8800, or email rszatko@lutz.us.

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Blur Parties to Host Ultimate Tailgate for Garth Brooks Concert at Memorial Stadium Blur Parties, your favorite premier hospitality tailgate company, has announced plans for the ultimate concert experience on Saturday, August 14, when Garth Brooks takes the stage at Memorial Stadium as part of his ongoing Stadium Tour.

Blur Parties tailgates are located right in the middle of all the buzz— right across from the stadium under the viaduct bridge between I-80 and downtown. Before, during, and after the concert, guests can enjoy food, drinks, multiple large TV's airing national sports, country music, tailgate games, a mechanical bull, and barrel races. VIP and general admission tickets will be available, along with event details, on the Blur Parties website where you can also find details for Husker football tailgates and Sip Nebraska coming up on the weekend of September 24-25.

Tickets for the Garth Brooks concert went on sale on May 21 with record sales. Memorial Stadium can hold up to 90,000 fans. With Brooks positioned at the center of the field to allow seating all around, this event will likely be one of the largest crowds in Brooks’ career.

Blur Parties is a tailgate and event production company established in 2008. Their goal is to create unforgettable experiences for guests by hosting hospitality tailgates. In addition to College World Series and Husker football, Blur Parties also organizes the Sip Nebraska festival every year. To learn more, visit blurparties.com or contact Stacy Leners at (402) 882-2448 / stacy@blurparties.com. You can also follow on Facebook (@ blurparties) for more updates. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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True Business Advantage Innovative technology that powers performance It’s a new day in Nebraska for Kinetic Business and our customers. As your local partner, we deliver innovative solutions to keep your business performing.

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BUSINESS NEWS Clearwater Counseling Highlights Importance of Mental Health During Men’s Health Month Throughout the month of June, Clearwater Counseling is celebrating Men's Health Month by bringing important information and insight to the forefront. Recognizing this annual observance once again makes it evident how important mental health is to overall wellness. Suicide, one of the top 10 causes of death, is more than three times as likely to be a cause of death for men than women. Instead of seeking help, some men may attempt to "selfmedicate" through substance use and alcohol, which only deepens depression and encourages impulsive tendencies.

One major reason that men do not seek help for their depression is the stigma surrounding mental health, while another is the lack of communication or expressing feelings. Clearwater Counseling, PC encourages parents to start talking to their sons about this behavior early on so that male youth know it is completely acceptable to express their feelings and admit when they need help.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please don't be afraid to talk about it or reach out for professional help. Clearwater Counseling works with clients who are struggling with a variety of mental health diagnoses including depression, relationship issues, stress, grief/loss/trauma, addiction and recovery, co-dependency, anxiety and phobias, parenting problems, sexual abuse and incest, physical abuse and violence, and more. To learn more about staff, services, or resources, visit clearwatercounselingpc. org. To schedule an appointment with Clearwater Counseling, or for more information about mental health services, please call (308) 210-8487 or email info@clearwatercounselingne.org.

AOI Celebrates Return of Nelson Coconut Lounge Chairs, Updated by Herman Miller Even as some of the vintage Coconut c hairs designed

by George Nelson in 1955 remain artistic delights in the homes of perceptive collectors, AOI Corporation is celebrating Herman Miller’s relaunch of the original Nelson Coconut lounge c hairs in a more sustainable shell material and more extensive upholstery options. As a certified Herman Miller dealer, AOI is offering the iconic midcentury chairs in a selection of leather or fabric solid colors, as well as sophisticated patterns, and a frame of white or chrome. Whatever combination you choose, you and your friends and family will love these eye-catching conversation pieces, which also allow for effortless comfort and repositioning.

The Coconut Chair is completely true to George Nelson's original design, materials, and detailing. With the unique shell design, he accomplished his goal of providing comfortable and attractive lounge seating that provides freedom of movement so that people can sit in just about any position they choose. This midcentury furniture icon has a simple, striking shape, and it is also a wonderfully comfortable place to unwind at home or in your private office or lounge. While simple, it provides a fluidity that delivers a sense of eloquence, even amid its unique angularity.

AOI Corporation works with clients that include everything from small start-ups to Fortune 500 corporations. They provide solutions for construction, furniture, and prefabricated interiors. For more information, visit aoicorp.com or contact Penny Johnston at (402) 476-0055 or pjohnston@aoicorp.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Empire Netting and Fence to Host Installation, Gate Automation, and Gate Welding School Local fence company Empire Netting and Fence announced they are hosting a Fence Installation, Gate Automation Design, and Gate Welding School June 9-11 at 14650 Woodstock Blvd. in Waverly. Special guest speakers and certified instructors will teach standards and best-practice guidelines developed by the American Fence Association (AFA). Tool and machinery demonstrations by local vendors will be available to the participants, as well on-site certification testing by the Accreditation & Certification Institute (ACI). The schooling will combine business building, education, classroom and field training, and certification testing.

Brought to you by the AFA Midwest Chapter and corporate sponsors, this education aims to promote the highest levels of professionalism and ethics in the industry by strengthening local and surrounding-area fence companies. Classroom training through the AFA On the Road Fence Installation Training will cover two fence disciplines: chain link and vinyl.

Subjects include personal safety; equipment and tools; truck/trailer safety and loading; introduction to blueprint reading; site reading and layout; introduction to fence welding; post-hole digging; concrete mixing; post setting; and resources and references.

Empire Netting and Fence specializes in the supplying and installation of sports netting and fence. Safety and security for their customers is their main concern—whether you need fencing for your home or business, to secure a worksite, or to protect spectators at a sporting event. For more information, visit empire-fence.com or contact Rachel at rachel@ empire-fence.com / info@empire-fence.com, or call (402) 682-7658.

To register for the schools June 9-11, visit americanfenceassociation.com.

JUNE 2021 Strictly Business 11

BUSINESS NEWS True North Technologies Schedules First TapOnIt Networking Event Friday, July 9

Fritz + Lloyd Interiors Moves Into New Space to Fit Retail, F+L Modern Home

True North Technologies is proud to announce their first quarterly TapOnIt Friday Afternoon Club Networking Event! This exclusive event will begin at 6 p.m. July 9 at Hillcrest Country Club, and will feature fun, food, drinks, giveaways, a photo booth, and live entertainment, in addition to the top five Lincoln TapOnIt advertisers and their businesses. Admission will be free; however, space is limited so RSVPs are required to attend. Decision makers are encouraged to attend, as this event will highlight the many benefits of the TapOnIt platform and provide a convenient opportunity to sign an agreement. To RSVP for the July 9 event, visit go-tnt.com.

TapOnIt is an emerging opportunity for businesses in the Lincoln market.

This amazing new platform allows anyone to send beautifully crafted offers via multimedia messaging (MMS) text messages to a growing database of opt-in subscribers. Since text messages have a 99% open rate, this method guarantees that local offers will be seen by thousands of eager Lincoln consumers each week! This platform is well suited for bars, shops, boutiques, retailers, and restaurants, but can easily be adapted to fit the goals of any organization.

Do you know any restaurants or business owners who would benefit from acquiring new customers this spring and summer? Encourage them to RSVP and learn more about this exclusive event at the True North Technologies website at www.go-tnt.com.

Fritz + Lloyd Interiors, owned by President and Design Director Becky Rea, is excited to now be operating in a new space at 8907 S 83rd St. in the Woodlands Enterprise Center.

The interior design firm outgrew its old space with a team of five, including Becky. However, the main reason for moving was to find space that could eloquently fit the retail side of the business, F+L Modern Home. The new location has 3,000 square feet to showcase furniture, accessories, art, lamps, pillows, and more. Customers are welcome to walk in to shop for their homes, as well as custom-design clients who are meeting to finish out their new constructions or remodels.

With 20 years of professional experience in her back pocket, Becky Rea at Fritz + Lloyd Interiors is your go-to expert for your next interior design project. Specializing in high-end residential spaces, Becky has worked on upscale projects across the country, specifically focusing on the greater Chicago area and in her home-base, Lincoln.

Through the upper-level interior design studio courses she’s taught at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Architecture (her alma mater), Becky has perfected her skill-set of interior design both in practice and in theory. In addition to being NCIDQ certified, Becky has served two terms as the director of professional development for the Nebraska/Iowa Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). Today, she continues to lend a helping hand to the fields’ committees. To learn more about services, see photos of past projects, and get to know the full team, go online to fritzandlloyd.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS

N E W ! Half-Day

Preschool Options

Join Shepherd’s Rest Goat & Sheep Rescue for Upcoming Goat Yoga Events Shepherd’s Rest Goat & Sheep Rescue has announced two goat yoga sessions on June 12 and 26. These events will begin at 10 a.m. and last approximately an hour. The June 12 session will be held at the Shepherd’s Rest farm at 426 W Cedar Rd., Pickrell, NE, and the June 26 session will be held at Gateway Mall, 6100 O St. Lincoln Yoga Center will be leading both sessions. Afterwards, you are welcome to pose, spend extra time cuddling with goats, take a tour, or explore the walking trails at the rescue. Cost is $20 a person with proceeds going to support the goats at Shepherd’s Rest, a Nebraska nonprofit organization with a goal to give goats and sheep a forever home.

Shepherd’s Rest Goat & Sheep Rescue is all about bringing together animals and humans in a way that is healing for both.

The organization exists to rescue, rehabilitate, adopt, and provide sanctuary for goats and sheep in need. They also offer education to the public about goats and sheep as therapy animals, provide qualified animal-assisted therapy, and train others to provide qualified animal-assisted therapy with sheep and goats adopted through their program.

To schedule your own session with Shepherd’s Rest Goat & Sheep Rescue, contact Jen at (402) 580-5299 / shepherdsrestrescue@ gmail.com. More information can also be found on Facebook (@ ShepherdsRestRescue).

NAWIC Greater Omaha Chapter 116 Brings Home 4 Awards from Midwest Spring Forum The Greater Omaha Chapter 116 of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) was honored to be recognized with four awards during the NAWIC Midwest Region (MWR) Spring Forum in St. Louis April 30 – May 1. Those included Wheeler Elementary fifth grader Cheyanne Richardson’s winning of the MWR Block Kids Award, qualifying her project for the NAWIC national competition; and the Phoenix Rising Award being presented to NAWIC member Nanci Borg of United Rentals to recognize her leadership efforts at the chapter and regional levels during a very trying year.

Greater Omaha Chapter 116 also won two Women in Construction Week awards, including the award for “Creativity and Resourcefulness” for the chapter’s food-drive event, which gathered 4,700 pounds of food to benefit the Food Bank for the Heartland; and a second award for “Collaboration” for their NAWIC Tailgate, which brings companies together to celebrate women in construction.

for kids 3 - 5 yrs old 9 am - 12:30 pm |Follows LPS Calendar

Participating in Step up to Quality Nebraska, Creative Curriculum, and ASQ – 3 assessments.

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Bethany A Arnold, Financial Advisor 8135 S. 15th St., Suite B | Lincoln, NE (402) 421-7418

Ample Food & Sturdy Drink!

• 50 Irish Whiskeys • 20 Beers on Tap • Open Daily at 11am Check out our menu!

From Shepherd’s Pie to Bangers & Mash, we have a variety of Irish cuisine.

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402-477-0021 • www.McKinneysPubLincoln.com

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This was the first time the Midwest Region Spring Forum was a hybrid event, with both in-person and virtual participation, drawing 113 members from 17 chapters in the Midwest Region. Next up, the NAWIC national organization is hosting its 66th Annual Conference in Charlotte, NC, August 11-14.

NAWIC Chapter 116 in Omaha encompasses Lincoln, Omaha, Council Bluffs, and the surrounding areas. For more information, visit nawicomaha.com and follow them on Facebook (@nawicomaha). To inquire about becoming a member or attending a monthly meeting, email nawicomaha@gmail.com or call (402) 617-0961. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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JUNE 2021 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS Star City Heating & Cooling Moves to New Location on Cornhusker Hwy

Heartland International to Hold Metal Roofing and Advanced Roofing Systems Trainings

Star City Heating & Cooling moved its shop to a new location at 5401 Cornhusker Hwy. The team is excited to serve both first-time and familiar clients in this new location and provide them with their leading commercial and residential services.

President Keith McRoberts is proud of the company's growth and ability to adapt to change. He wants Star City to be known as the company that the Lincoln community can count on when needed because they depend on their customers just as much, if not more.

Heartland International invites current and aspiring roofing contractors to learn more about Conklin Roofing Systems at the upcoming Metal Roofing and Advanced Roofing Systems Training seminars on tap in Kansas City in June. The one-day Metal Roofing System Training will cover not only the application process of a Conklin MR® System but also will provide an overview about how to get started as a Conklin contractor and introduce strategies for making sales calls, quoting a roof, presenting proposals, and working with building owners. The next Metal Roofing System Training program takes place on June 10.

The three-day Advanced Roofing Systems Training provides a more in-depth coverage of Conklin Roofing Systems and gives contractors a chance to participate in a hands-on construction of the systems using industry-standard tools and materials. Participants in this training must have completed a one-day Metal Roofing System Training program as a pre-qualification for this advanced program. Check out the next Advanced Roofing Systems Training program June 2-4.

For more information about the Heartland International, Inc. training programs, please visit thesecureroof.com.

Star City Heating & Cooling is a proud, independent, and locally operated, BBB A+ rated contractor. With more than three decades of industry experience, Star City has become the leading choice for the design, sale, installation, service, and maintenance of heating, air conditioning, home comfort systems, and indoor air quality. The team of Lincoln HVAC technicians are committed to clients' complete comfort in their home, and they also commercially specialize in restaurant equipment, refrigeration, and laundry equipment. Visit www.starcityair.com or call (402) 464-7827 to learn more and schedule an appointment.

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BUSINESS NEWS KayStock Design Studio Completes New Website, Showcases Services and Portfolio KayStock Design Studio— an up-and-coming interior design company in Lincoln, recently founded by Kayla Stock—has completed its official website (www. kaystockdesign.com).

The clean and cohesive layout nicely showcases Kayla's design services and portfolio of past projects. Visitors can also read testimonials from previous clients and learn more about the KayStock philosophy.

Kayla's specialty is designing custom and modern homes, in addition to commercial design. She is proficient in SketchUp and AutoCAD, as well as hand-drawn renderings. Her services include space planning, material selection, and custom designs.

Kayla's goal is to help you make your space unique with designs that stand out. She loves to create visual boards to ensure client satisfaction. To schedule a free home or business consultation, contact Kayla at kay.stockcreative@gmail.com / (402) 499-9415 or go online to www.kaystockdesign.com.

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RUNZA® REWARDS

NDOL Offers Support for Businesses Trying to Hire via Statewide Job-Center Network Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL) is supporting businesses in need of qualified employees via a statewide network of job centers available to assist employers in a variety of areas. Business service representatives are connected to local workforce development partners, including government agencies such as the Department of Economic Development, local community colleges, and area nonprofits. NEworks.nebraska.gov is the state’s largest, most comprehensive online job database. Nebraska businesses of every size and industry use NEworks to connect with thousands of highly qualified job seekers, including a large bank of professionals, highskilled individuals and veterans.

If you are an employer looking to make direct connections with the local talent pool, NDOL’s business services representatives can work with you to coordinate job fairs and hiring events. The Nebraska Workforce System also has several programs to diversify and upskill an employer’s workforce. Businesses can receive a substantial wage subsidy for hiring and training individuals from a variety of targeted populations. Worker Training Grants can help upskill the current workforce in any area or program that increases retention, upward mobility, and productivity.

NDOL, in partnership with the United States Department of Labor (USDOL), works to expand a variety of Registered Apprenticeship opportunities throughout the state. In addition, employers can develop a pre-apprenticeship with NDOL to engage and excite students through career exploration. What’s more, NDOL assists employers with using layoff aversion and response strategies, including ShortTime Compensation and the Rapid Response program.

Business services solutions are customizable and unique to every employer. For more information about the Nebraska Department of Labor’s services for employers, visit dol.nebraska.gov/Home/ ContactUs to contact your local job center today and discover your workforce solution! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Runza® is a registered trade/service mark of Runza National, Inc. © 2021 Runza National, Inc.

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BUSINESS NEWS Tillotson Enterprises Gives Company Trucks Sleek Look with New Wraps Tillotson Enterprises recently took a bold step forward in their marketing efforts by giving all of their company trucks a sleek new look with updated wraps. Tillotson partnered with After Hours Wraps of Aurora to make their design vision come to life. They are excited to drive around and show the community their company’s name and eye-catching branding, contact information, and services they provide.

Tillotson provides residential and commercial services that include spray applied roof coatings, spray foam insulation, foundation repairs, basement waterproofing, concrete leveling, and concrete fl oor coatings. Tillotson has branches in Lincoln, Aurora, and Kearney to better serve Nebraska and surrounding states.

Contact Tillotson Enterprises, Inc. by calling (402) 466-7038 or sending an email to info@trusttillotson.com to set up your FREE inspection today! More information can be found online at trusttillotson.com.

Positive.

WISB Meeting Set for Wednesday, June 9 The next Women in Sales & Business (WISB) monthly meeting is set for Wednesday, June 9, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The meeting will be hosted at Venue Restaurant & Lounge in the Lancaster/Nebraska room located at 4111 Pioneer Woods Dr., STE 100.

They will begin with their regular business meeting, followed by networking activities with fellow members and guests.

Guests are welcome and current members are encouraged to attend with a guest. The cost to attend in-person is $16 for members with lunch, $10 without lunch, and FREE for first-time guests. All women attending should be prepared to make an introduction of themselves and their business. Please register on the Women in Sales & Business Facebook page (@wisblincoln).

Women in Sales & Business began meeting in 1987 to offer businesswomen in Lincoln the opportunity to network within an allfemale setting. Today, their goal is to encourage and develop creative leadership in women. They are dedicated to promoting growth through the accumulation and sharing of knowledge and are always looking for new members to join the group! To learn more or inquire about membership, call (402) 472-8675 or visit wisblincoln.org.

Professional.

Ping Pong.

Think you’ve got what it takes?

Find out more at unicogroup.com/careers. unicogroup.com 402.434.7200 Where connections make a difference.

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BUSINESS NEWS “How did you hear about us?”

Midwest Rollers Car Club to Host the Best of the Midwest Car Show June 26 Midwest Rollers Car Club is partnering with Sam’s Club at 8480 Andermatt Dr. to host the 6th Annual Best of the Midwest Car Show on Saturday, June 26, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. All cars, trucks, and motorcycles are encouraged to enter for $20 (day-of entry is $25).

The event is free for spectators and will feature food, vendors, and entertainment. There will be cool rides on display from the Lincoln Police Department, Sheriff’s Department, State Troopers, and the Lincoln Fire Department. Proceeds from the car show will go towards purchasing a new ambulance for Children’s Hospital & Medical Center.

In 2013, Sam’s Club and Walmart stores in Lincoln and Omaha raised enough money to purchase a $250,000 brand new ambulance for Children’s Hospital. In 2020, during COVID-19, they had 165 vehicles from all across the U.S. raised $5,000 for the Children’s Hospital. This year, Midwest Rollers Car Club and Sam’s Club are aiming for 300 vehicles in attendance with a fundraising goal of $10,000!

Midwest Rollers, Inc. is an exclusive car club. They are the new wave of car clubs and are bringing awareness, fundraising, and engagement with the community while having a great time. It doesn’t matter what someone rolls in, they will always have a smile while rollin’ with the Midwest Rollers Car Club. For more information, visit www.midwestrollerscarclub.com or contact Todd Francisco at (402) 217-1926.

“Strictly Business!”

(402) 466-3330 www.Strictly-Business.com

Rustic, Urban Charm IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN LINCOLN

From event setup to a full-service bar, the Talon Room will meet all of your event needs to go above and beyond.

Let us execute the event of your dreams.

Call Matt today to book your event!

402-641-0943 ∙ www.TalonRoom.com ∙ 230 N. 12th St. #1 Lincoln, NE

Burnleys Open New Life Electrical to Meet Electric Needs of All Types in Lincoln Area Founder Carol Burnley and her husband Dave recently launched New Life Electrical in Lincoln, taking their once part-time side business to the next level and going full time! They started New Life Electrical to serve the needs of the Lincoln community and surrounding areas with virtually all types of electrical services, including residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional. In addition to swimming pool opening and closing, services include electrical renovation, replacement, repair, and construction services, from new construction to that pesky punch list of items—basically “anything that involves wiring.”

Dave is a Master Electrician and has more than 25 years of experience as a licensed electrician. He and Carol are excited to bring a Christianbased business to the market and offer honest, kind, and up-front customer service and help people bring New Life to their projects.

They can help you create and maintain safe, effective, and up-to-date electrical systems for your homes and businesses at a great price!

Dave and Carol previously maintained several other full- and part-time jobs, while also volunteering through church ministry—taking care of odd jobs and repairs for congregants in need, as well as helping others in any way they could. Carol has always been self-employed and previously was a partner in a house-flipping business, but she and Dave decided to pour their combined skills into this new electrical business in a market booming with new development and remodeling demand.

A division of New Life Properties LLC, New Life Electrical is a private Christian-owned company aimed at providing safe, dependable electrical services in Lincoln and the surrounding region. For more information about giving your project New Life, call or text Dave at (402) 617-3700, or email newlifeelectricallincoln@gmail.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

On-the-Job Training Reimbursement Program Employers willing to provide on-the-job training to laid off workers may be eligible for a 50–75% wage reimbursement up to $10,000 through the Nebraska Department of Labor.

Benefits to Employers. On-the-job training helps employers recruit more efficiently, hire better-prepared employees and reduce their training costs.

On-the-job training helps jobseekers quickly reenter the workforce while increasing their skills and earning a wage.

Contact us today to learn more: email: NDOL.EconomicTransition@nebraska.gov our job centers: dol.nebraska.gov/ContactUs

Equal Opportunity Employer/TDD: 800.833.7352 Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

JUNE 2021 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS

Delta Air Lines is back.

Let’s fly.

Lincoln SCORE to Host What's Involved in Starting a Small Business Workshop June 12 Lincoln SCORE and Southeast Community College (SCC) have teamed up to host a workshop titled What's Involved in Starting a Small Business, on Saturday, June 12, 8:15 a.m. - 5 p.m. at the SCC Entrepreneurship Center, 285 S 68th St. Place, Room 214. Have an idea for a business? Just launched your business? Been in business for a while but wondering how to grow? This workshop provides an overview of all the things you need to be planning for and thinking about to create a successful business: • Business Plan • Practical Accounting • Financing Your Business • Legal Structures for Small Business • Marketing—"traditional" and online • Insurance Needs • Tax Considerations All sessions are taught by an expert in that field! Get your specific question answered by a pro. Anyone is welcome to attend. Cost is only $49 and includes lunch!

Lincoln SCORE is dedicated to entrepreneur education and the formation, growth, and success of small businesses everywhere. More information and registration can be found at lincoln.score.org.

Kinetic Business Offers Game Changing SD-WAN Software for Remote Offices

Book your flight from LNK on Delta today.

The Lincoln Airport and Delta Air Lines, operated by SkyWest, are partnered once again to connect travelers to Minneapolis and beyond.

Together, we’re stepping up to better serve Lincoln, its businesses and you.

Visit LincolnAirport.com/Delta for flight information and booking.

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Strictly Business JUNE 2021

With recent research indicating that a hybrid working structure will become the new normal as businesses begin to open up offices again, Kinetic Business by Windstream is answering the call with software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN) business solutions. This software makes it easier for employees to connect and to collaborate, makes the network itself simpler and easier to control, and improves cloud usage, which is significantly on the rise since the adoption of remote technologies.

Even better, SD-WAN technology can reduce costs for a business.

This software provides important benefits to multi-site business partners and allows business owners to see what devices and networks are doing at all locations. Here are five ways Kinetic Business SD-WAN raises performance, visibility, and scalability: • Delivers big bandwidth—When your bandwidth has peaked, a software-defined WAN responds.

• Prioritizes platforms—IT specialists monitor and manage how much bandwidth the different connected platforms use.

• Uptime + encryption—With SD-WAN, Windstream makes two active links from any location, bringing guaranteed performance to any network connection while providing end-to-end network encryption for protection and security.

• Visibility—With the MyWin portal, you can look at accounts and hardware in use across the network.

• No contract, no data caps—Kinetic Business SD-WAN adds network capacity to suit locations as your business grows, and applications as technology evolves.

For more information about Windstream’s Kinetic Business services, visit kineticbusiness.com and follow Kinetic Business by Windstream on Facebook, Twitter (@GoKineticBiz), and LinkedIn (@Kinetic Business). #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Arnie’s Offers 10% Off Cool Treats for Hot Dogs Throughout Month of June Summers in Nebraska get HOT, so Arnie’s Pet Food Store is making it easy for you to give your dog a frozen treat to cool down—at 10% off throughout the month of June. There’s nothing artificial about these hot-weather treats, either, so you’ll know you’re helping your best friend stay both healthy and happy!

Among the cool delights at Arnie’s is DogGurt, which is an all-natural frozen yogurt in a cup, with real fruits, bacon, and peanut butter. It is wholly refreshing for your pet on a hot day!

Another option is Wag More Bark Less iced treats for dogs. They deliver a human-grade, dairy-free iced treat for dogs and are packed with probiotics and gently churned with simple ingredients, including natural peanut butter, bananas, and coconut cream. Finally, your dogs will love Artisan Yogurt and Kefir by Nuggets Healthy Eats. It is human-grade and madefrom-scratch with milk from happy, healthy, hormone- and antibiotic-free cows that are grass-fed in open pastures. Multiple strains of live cultures full of probiotics are added for healthy tummies and immune support, and all Yogurts and Kefirs contain 100% natural fruit.

Located in the Alamo Plaza at 56th and Highway 2, Arnie’s Pet Food Store is your neighborhood family-owned pet food store, where they care as much about your pets as they do their own. Stop by or shop online at arniespetfoods.com.

Serving Lincoln for over 70 years!

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

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Center Sphere Emphasizes Philanthropic Impact with New Strategic Best Practices Center Sphere has always encouraged their members and chapters to support local nonprofits in their communities, but the organization recently took that a step further by incorporating new strategic best practices into their chapter structures. In January, Center Sphere chapters were asked to come together and select a common philanthropic cause that is deeply rooted in the community and be involved with it on a consistent basis.

The idea spread like wildfire and the organization is excited for the local impact these members are set to make.

“Doing good together is incredibly powerful,” said Center Sphere’s Director of National Growth Ben LeGrow. “Creating an impact on a local level binds our membership together in a way that simple business transactions just can’t replicate. We are excited members are getting behind this movement and can’t wait to see how it influences our communities.”

Center Sphere recommends that their members get involved in these philanthropic missions in a variety of ways, including physical service opportunities, donations, and services that involve their friends and families.

Center Sphere is an established network of business professionals whose mission is to share referrals, ideas, and resources through genuine relationships. The Lincoln Network is currently made up of nearly 30 chapters that have access to members nationwide. For more information about Center Sphere or to inquire about attending a complimentary meeting or event, visit CenterSphere.com or connect with Lincoln Area Director Cheryl Hansen at CherylHansen@ CenterSphere.com or (402) 499-2009. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

“Personal Banking Like You Remember” is putting you and your family first.

Checking | Savings | Mortgage | Home Equity

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Call us at 402-474-1400.

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You should be comfortable quick in your own home.

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CAR WASH BUSINESS FLEET PLANS Have a business with a bunch of cars? Keep your fleet lookin’ sleek with business membership plans from JetSplash. You’ll get discounted pricing on all washes, no matter which plan you go with. Plus you’ll score a bunch of other perks.

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ASK THE EXPERT: COMPRO (402) 488-5100 www.comproins.com

by Kayla Northup Senior Account Manager

We Love Working with Small Businesses!

Small business owners can face many challenges. One of the greatest can be finding and keeping quality employees. Even with an excellent product or service to offer, it’s vital to the success of a company to have high-caliber employees to back it up. One of the best ways to find/keep quality employees is to provide them with an attractive employee benefits plan. This is where ComPro comes in!

Many health insurance agencies don’t want to bother with small clients.

Not so at ComPro. We love helping small business owners. Truth be told, working with small businesses is what our Employee Benefits Team loves most! Being a small business ourselves, we understand the unique challenges this can present. We believe that no business is too small for us to help them with their employee benefits plan.

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• Part-time or Full-time Positions • Evening Hours Available • Flexible Scheduling Available • Benefits Include: Paid Time Off and 401k

Call today for more information!

2626 O Street • 402.476.2194 • servicemasterlincoln.com

When we talk about an employee benefits plan, ComPro’s offering includes the whole spectrum of coverage options—health, dental, vision, life, disability, and critical illness. We work with multiple insurance carriers and know the strengths of each. This allows us to tailor solutions to best fit the unique needs of each employer. We know that creating the right employee benefits package isn’t just about cost. It’s the right intersection of cost and benefits. We bring together a cost-effective plan with the benefits you need from a carrier that has a proven track record. Even if you are just beginning a benefits program, we can find you an affordable option in our mix.

We understand that although owners may know their industry inside and out, handling human resources, benefits management, and finances are pieces of ownership that may be outside of their comfort-zone. That’s exactly what we are here for! Our Employee Benefits Team is a group of smart people who decided to learn a lot about health insurance, and who want to use this knowledge to help small businesses.

We highly value developing long-term relationships with our clients.

For this reason, we provide them with great customer service and advocate for them when needed. Practicing ridiculous responsiveness is one of the main ways that we best demonstrate to our clients that we are here for them. Our Employee Benefits Team will take the time to get to know you and your company to provide an employee benefits plan that best fits your company’s needs. They will guide you through any questions you have in making an educated decision on this.

For more information, contact ComPro at (402) 488-5100 or visit our website at comproins.com. Located at 1040 N Cotner Blvd. in Lincoln.

Electrical Contractor + Residential + Commercial + Renovation and Construction Services

Give us a Call Today about our New Customer Special!

Dave Burnley 402.617.3700 #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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STAR CITY SIX irp!

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ARTHUR

Arthur Fayman

INMOTION AUTO CARE Meet Arthur Fayman, a master automotive technician at inMotion Auto Care.

Tell us a little about your business.

- inMotion opened back in 2012, when I was getting out of school. The owners, Sherri Stock and Jared McPike, started the company with the idea of having a trustworthy and honest place people could bring their vehicle for any services. I joined the team in 2014 as a maintenance technician and later moved up to a line technician position.

How did you get started in the business? - I really enjoyed taking things apart as a child and figuring out how they worked. My father had a 1992 Silverado that I always enjoyed working on. My parents would tell me that when I was young, I would walk up to people, shake their hand, and tell them I wanted to be a mechanic.

What is the biggest challenge you've faced professionally? - Working for places that treat their employees poorly. The automotive industry can be very difficult to work in. It can be very dog-eat-dog. Too often, the people running/managing the business only care about the profits and not the employees or customer. This leads to high employee turnover and a poor perception of the automotive industry. That is why I love inMotion. They treat their employees and customer very well.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Graduating with a degree in automotive technology from Southeast Community College and attaining all eight of my ASE certifications to become an ASE Master Certified Technician.

Tell us a little about your family. - My father Michael passed away in 2010. He's lived on by mother Jody, myself, and my four sisters. I also have a beautiful 3-year-old son named Harlan with my amazing fiancé Natalie.

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

- I was not sure if I was going to graduate high school, but I realized after my father passed away how important an education is. I have never regretted pressing forward with my education.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love hanging out with my family and doing projects around the house. I also really enjoy playing Dungeons & Dragons. I am in a group that meets biweekly to play.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don't know? - My full name is Arthur Alexander Fayman. Everyone calls me Alex for short. Most people don't know my actual first name.

Who inspires you? - My father. He was a carpenter for about 30 years and always worked hard to support and love his family. This instilled a great work ethic in all his children and an amazing love for family. Another source of inspiration in my life is my dear friend Pat Heng who passed away at the beginning of 2020. We worked together for five years. He was my mentor and good friend. He helped me to become the technician I am today.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I used to volunteer at The Bay. It started out as a skate park but has evolved into an amazing community outreach center.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Honest Abe's.

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If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 486-9880; www.inmotionautocare.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

MICHAELA

Michaela Halvorson

LEGACY RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES Meet Michaela Halvorson, career counselor at Legacy Retirement Communities.

Tell us a little about your business. - Legacy Retirement Communities is a family, locally owned and operated business.

Our mission is to improve the way we age and how we perceive aging.

We also work to enrich each and every person by valuing their potential and empowering them to find success.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Realizing that sometimes I can be the “idiot in the room". This realization, however, has brought a great advantage. Although I might not understand at first, I can always ask someone to explain it in a different way. Odds are, others don’t understand either. Being the “idiot in the room” could end up being an act of service to others.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Discovering the word, “Ubuntu” which is Zulu for “‘Humanity’ or ‘I am because we are’”. This word has encouraged me to understand and follow my values, leading to extraordinary reflections and conversations with others.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband Kevin and I will be married for four years this August. We love to travel and, in our free time, are music educators at Crossroads Percussion, a nonprofit competitive drumline out of Des Moines, IA. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Sit in the sunshine and read any book by Pam Jenoff. I also enjoy going for long, leisurely runs.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I am a cymbal educator for the Iowa State University Cyclone Football ‘Varsity’ Marching Band—Go Cyclones!

Who inspires you? - History. It’s filled with examples of determination, perseverance, resilience, intellects, and heroes. Its stories share what was, what is, and what could be. History inspires us to learn, grow, accept, question, challenge each other, and ultimately be better people.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Find what you love and let it kill you” from the book by Charles Bukowski, Can you Remember who you were before the world told you who you should be?

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

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - "Thank You for Being a Friend" by Andrew Gold.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Junior Achievement has been an excellent way to give back as a professional in the community by sharing expertise and strategy with the future workforce. From Kindergarten to high school, volunteering with JA is always an exceptional and fun adventure.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?

- Emotional Agility by Susan David, PhD. This is a phenomenal book if you are looking for a way to really connect with not only your emotions to live a balanced life, but your values and how you want to leave an impactful imprint on earth.

What is your favorite movie? - Christopher Robin.

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

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?

- (402) 417-7292; michaela.halvorson@legacyretirement.com; www. legacyretirement.com. You can also connect with me on LinkedIn! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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STAR CITY SIX

CHRISTOPHER

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Meet Christopher M. Ferdico, the head of trial practice and general counsel at Berry Law. Tell us a little about your business. - Berry Law is a national Veterans Disability practice, and we are well known across Nebraska in the areas of Criminal Defense and Personal Injury. We have offices in both Lincoln and Omaha, but practice statewide and in Iowa. From attorneys to staff, approximately 30% of our employees are Veterans. The mission-focused, victory-driven, and never-quit attitude of our culture is very appealing.

How did you get started in the business? - I’ve been practicing law since 1996. I grew up wanting to either be a lawyer or a chef. When I realized most chefs have to work evenings and weekends, I realized that didn’t sound as much fun.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Managing a 23-year military career while practicing law. This is also my greatest achievement.

Tell us a little about your family. - I am married with four beautiful children ranging in age from 6 to 18—three boys and one daughter whom I am powerless against.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? 9/11. It changed the trajectory of my career from being lawyer focused to military focused.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I enjoy the shooting sports. Anything from formal competition to plinking with my children.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I have enough tattoos to be a Marine. I appreciate that Tattoos have significant cultural ties and were historically used to link people, their heritage, and life’s experiences. I have taken that approach in my tattoos which make them very meaningful.

Who inspires you? - Our Veterans who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

For those of us who have survived combat, we must continue to remember, live for, and protect the values that they died for.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - The best advice I give to my children is that the point of education is to learn how to think, not what to think.

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

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I'm a founder of Warfighter Tobacco Company, a premium Veteran-owned Cigar Company.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I am a charter member of American Legion Post 1919. We are trying to reenergize the American Legion in Lincoln to better serve all Veterans, young and old.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - “The Things They Carried” by Tim O’Brien. I was honored to have lunch with him when he was here in Lincoln for a reading at the University of Nebraska.

What is your favorite movie? - I don't know about favorite, but I can best quote The Princess Bride!

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Elon Musk and Leonardo da Vinci. I'd just watch them pick each other’s brains.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? (402) 704-8102; christopher@jsberrylaw.com; jsberrylaw.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

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Tell us a little about your business. We do almost anything for the exterior of your home including roofing, siding, gutters, windows, insulation, and Halo Lighting (Year-round holiday lighting).

How did you get started in the business? - Worked for a family member's roofing company in Kearney out of high school with a friend. When he moved back to Lincoln, he started working at Neemann & Sons. He encouraged me to do the same. Fifteen years later, I'm still with the company!

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Finding good help and people who take pride in their work.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Learning as much as I have about home exteriors. I have ran a roofing, siding, and gutters crew and carried out many other tasks during my time with Neemann & Sons.

Tell us a little about your family. - My mom and dad live in Lincoln.

My sister and brother-in-law live in Norfolk with my two nephews.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Probably working for the Neemanns. They have given me countless opportunities to continue to succeed.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I recently purchased a cabin on the Missouri River with my sister and brotherin-law, so I try to get up there as much as possible.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I love to travel out of the country.

I'm very intrigued by other cultures.

Who inspires you? - Friends, family, coworkers—anyone who I can learn something from.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Live in the moment or day by day. You never know it will be your last. You can't predict the future and you can't dwell on the past.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Fun. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Flying would make my job a lot easier.

Which talent would you most like to have? - I'd like to play the piano.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Something with woodworking. I like to work with my hands and be creative.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - There isn't a specific organization but I believe in "Do unto others..." so I always try to help anyone in need in hopes they return the favor to others.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I enjoy audible books. The last one I listened to was Can't Hurt Me

by David Goggins.

What is your favorite movie? - Anything Avengers.

What is your favorite TV show? - I've always been a fan of Dexter.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - It used to be El Sitio before they closed. I'm always in the mood for Mexican food.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? (402) 423-4853; info@neemannandsons.com; neemannandsons.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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STAR CITY SIX

KAY

Kay Bartek

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Meet Kay Bartek, senior vice president, Lincoln retail market manager at West Gate Bank.

Tell us a little about your business. - West Gate Bank is a family owned and operated bank that has been serving the Lincoln community for over 50 years.

How did you get started in the business? - I have worked in banking for my entire career and really enjoy helping people understand and manage their finances in a way that is convenient for them.

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What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - This past year with the COVID-19 pandemic was a challenge like no other.

Trying to take care of our customers and our employees when we could not connect face to face at times, pushed us all to learn new ways. Even though we encountered challenges, I was extremely proud of how we utilized existing technology to keep moving forward.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband Doug is a computer programmer and does contract work with the State of Nebraska. We have two boys. Ryan is a 2021 graduate of Pius X High School and is planning to attend UNL this fall to major in business administration. Matthew will be a junior at Pius X High School and enjoys golf and basketball.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Having lunch or connecting with a friend or family member, taking some time for myself, or attending one of my kids’ events would be my top priorities.

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Who inspires you? - My niece and goddaughter Kelsey. She is currently going to school to become an eye doctor. She is incredibly driven, kindhearted, and faith-filled. I am so excited to watch her future unfold.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Asking questions is the greatest way to direct and understand people. In management roles, we often feel it is best to advise and provide the answers. This reverse concept has proven to be so much more valuable for me.

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

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - The ability to teleport.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I have served on the Board for the Southeast Nebraska Chapter of the American Red Cross for three years. This organization is so committed and supportive to people in their greatest time of need.

I am also involved in Junior Achievement and commit to teaching a few financial classes to students every year.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I AM ___. The Untold Story of Success by Klyn Elsbury.

What is your favorite movie? - The Notebook.

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What is your favorite TV show? - I am not a big TV watcher but do enjoy Friends reruns.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Vincenzo’s Ristorante.

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

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? (402) 323-8970; kbartek@westgate.bank; westgate.bank. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

TIM

Tim Zeng

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

ZENG GRANITE Meet Tim Zeng, the owner of Zeng Granite.

Tell us a little about your business. Zeng Granite is a professional stone fabrication and installation company. We focus on partnering with home builders and remodelers for their quartz and granite countertops.

How did you get started in the business? - I was working as a hotel remodeler when the Cornhusker Hotel in Lincoln asked me to install two granite vanities. Everyone in that industry was getting rid of their cultured marble, and I had done some of that work, so I took a chance with the granite too. It worked out well, and I kept getting asked to do more stone vanities and countertops. So, it became my niche, and I worked hard to learn all that I could about the stone fabrication industry. There is such a need for quality stone fabricators and installers in this area of the country that there was no turning back after that!

Tell us a little about your family. - I live with my beautiful wife Kristen. We love going to movies, eating out at local restaurants, and working on home projects together. We also have a Golden Retriever, Henry, and his rescued siblings.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Professionally, there was a turning point for me after I took a trip to Italy with the Stone Fabricator's Alliance. All business owners were on the trip, and we developed such great friendships and connections. The most impactful part of the trip was seeing how the Italians use and think of stone. It is so much more than countertops, it is a part of their culture. It has allowed me to think of stone and design in new and innovative ways. We are a safer, more cutting-edge shop because of that trip.

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What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love to spend time outdoors. So whether it's golfing, hunting, or camping, it is going to be a great day when I am outside.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - My lowest golf handicap was 0.8.

Who inspires you? - The integrator for Zeng Granite. She really pushes me to think bigger and in different ways about the business. She TRIES to keep me on track to work on my business not in my business.

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What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - If you are going to cut it wrong, cut it long.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Medicine. At one time, I had the desire to be a physician’s assistant. I really enjoy learning about the body and observing surgeries.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Kristen and I love to eat at many different local places, but it seems our go-to right now is Piedmont Bistro by Venue, The Oven, or MoMo’s.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - We are the friendliest countertop business in Lincoln, and we love to talk to people in person or on the phone. So come on by our showroom at 3035 N 35th St. or give us a call at (402) 429-8412. You can also email info@zenggranite.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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PERSONNEL NEWS CPA Erica Vossler Wins SP Group’s Kahoot Trivia Quiz in Fun Team-Building Exercise

Center Sphere Welcomes Jen Monjaras to Team as Director of Network Support

To cap off the 2020 tax season with some fun, SP Group, PC held an entertaining team-building exercise by testing their knowledge of fellow team members in a Kahoot! trivia quiz, and CPA Erica Vossler showed off her skills to win the top prize!

The overall goal was for each team member to get to know their teammates better in a friendly-format competition.

Not only did this emphasize one of SP’s core values—teamwork—but it also incorporated their other three core values: competitiveness, relationships, and life/work balance.

The company’s 2020 tax season interns—Livia Wilhelm, Trevin Little, Jessica Fairbanks, Jackson Roesler, Maddie Miller, and Natalie Janssen—were tasked with gathering interesting personal details about each SP Group team member as part of their internship program. After all this information was collected, they organized a Trivia Team Builder Game, where members of the entire SP Team were quizzed on their knowledge of fellow team members. In the end, Vossler was declared the winner after demonstrating her deep knowledge of obscure facts about her fellow competitors. Not only did she win the trivia challenge, but she was also presented with a cash prize!

SP Group, PC is a growing entrepreneurial accounting firm that serves growth-oriented companies and talented individuals in the Midwest. To learn more about the SP Team, visit spgrouppc.com and follow them on Facebook (@SP Group, P.C.) and Twitter (@ SPGroupPC), or call (402) 420-7758.

Center Sphere recently welcomed Jen Monjaras to the team as director of network support. Jen brings a wealth of knowledge to her role and will provide a critical link to helping members with their Center Sphere experiences, answering questions, helping plan events, and handling communications materials.

Jen’s background includes sales, business development, client ser vices, and marketing, all of which have enriched her impact in her past professional roles. Her business acumen, combined with obsessive attention to detail, and a passionate, client-centered approach, allow her to consistently exceed expectations. A native of North Platte, Jen holds a bachelor’s degree in communication arts from Bellevue University, where she also played softball. She and her husband enjoy spending time with their adorable children, Larsen and Camila, and their friends and family.

Center Sphere is an established network of business professionals whose mission is to share referrals, ideas, and resources through genuine relationships. The Lincoln Network is currently made up of nearly 30 chapters that have access to members nationwide.

For more information about Center Sphere or to inquire about attending a complimentary meeting or event, visit CenterSphere. com or connect with Lincoln Area Director Cheryl Hansen at CherylHansen@CenterSphere.com or (402) 499-2009.

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PERSONNEL NEWS

We’ll Treat Your Pet

Kim Zwiener Realtor of Sellstate Empire Realty is Named Top Agent Award Winner Kim Zwiener is announced as a Top Agent Award Winner by Homesnap Pro for being in the top 15% of realtor agents nationwide. Homesnap recognizes the most productive Homesnap agents in the Real Estate industry, all of whom are in the top 15% in transactions nationwide.

Homesnap is the leading national home search platform with real-time MLS data for consumers + free leads for agents.

Kim Zwiener has been a real estate agent for over 15 years. First serving as an elementary school teacher for just over five years, she made the switch to real estate in 2006. Throughout her career in real estate, she has served as a leader, an educator, and manager in both Nebraska and Missouri.

She owns and manages her own real estate companies, Sellstate Empire Reality, here in Lincoln, as well as Ozark Empire Reality, in Missouri.

Sellstate Empire Reality is the largest woman-owned real estate company in Lincoln. Sellstate Empire Reality has extensive knowledge of the Lincoln metropolitan area and can help you build the empire you envision. To learn more, visit www.sellstatene.com or contact Kim at (402) 416-1889 / kim.zwiener@sellstatene.com.

HoriSun Hospice Introduces Addition of Dr. Sean Barry and Michelle Tyser, PA-C HoriSun Hospice is pleased to announce the addition of Sean Barry, M.D. as assistant medical director, and Michelle Tyser, PA-C as physician assistant to its team.

Barry was born and raised in Omaha. He attended the University of Nebraska-Omaha, followed by the University of Nebraska Medicine for medical school and his residency.

He completed a pulmonary and critical care fellowship at the University of Kansas Medical Center where he was a faculty member until coming to Lincoln in 1996. Dr. Barry and his wife Stephanie have three wonderful daughters. In his free time, he enjoys gardening, hiking, and scuba diving.

Sean Barry

Tyser grew up in Lincoln and has worked in the medical community for 30 years. She earned her Associate of Applied Science in Respiratory Care from Southeast Community College, Bachelor of Science in Allied Health from Doane, Bachelor of Physician Assistant Studies from Union College and Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

Michelle Tyser She has worked as a physician assistant in pulmonary care for the past 15 years. She is an active member of the community and serves on two boards; the Concerned Nebraskans for Cystic Fibrosis and the Lincoln Ice Hockey Association. She and her husband Craig have two children, Kooper and Karlie.

HoriSun Hospice provides help, hope, and comfort to those facing a life-limiting illness. Their mission is to deliver the highest level of holistic hospice care with honor and respect for patients and their families.

Their qualified interdisciplinary team of health care professionals and trained volunteers have ensured that each individual receives the unique quality of care that they deserve. To learn more, visit www.horisunhospice.com or call (402) 484-6444. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Leadership simulcast COMING TO LINCOLN, NE Friday, October 8, 2021 | Location announced at a later date Live2Lead is designed to deliver the very best leadership content to inspire and motivate you and your team. Plus, connect with other leaders in your community and expand your business network with relationships that produce tangible results.

IE VALOR N BURTO Partnership opportunities and tables (6 tickets) available now.

Early bird ticket special available June 21-30, only $79 !

Live2Lead is being presented to the Lincoln area by Leadership Harbor, Certified John Maxwell Team Members.

JUNE 2021 Strictly Business

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PERSONNEL NEWS Berry Law Hires Chad Collins as New COO Berry Law recently announced the hiring of Army Veteran Chad Collins as its new Chief Operating Officer after a nationwide talent search. In filling the executive role, Mr. Collins will work closely with CEO John S. Berry, Jr. to drive operational efficiency and align firm operations to enable an aggressive growth strategy. As a former Army Major and legal operations leader, Chad has extensive experience in organizational leadership, strategy, and operations management.

Leveraging more than a decade of experience in professional services administration—most recently as director of administration for Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman’s Austin, Houston, and Nashville offices—Collins will oversee finance, operations, and human resources functions for Berry Law. He holds an MBA from the University of San Diego and a Juris Doctor from the University of Oklahoma College of Law. Before beginning a career in professional services administration, Collins spent more than seven years as an officer with the United States Army, serving with the 101st Airborne as a platoon leader in Iraq and company commander in Afghanistan. He left active duty as a Major in 2011.

Berry Law was founded in 1965 by legendary attorney John S. Berry, Sr. With more than 250 years of combined legal experience and 300 years of combined military service, the team at Berry Law is well equipped to handle the most serious legal needs. For more information, visit berrylawfirm.com or contact Emily Schweitzer at (402) 466-8444 / marketing@jsberrylaw.com.

Waterford Communities Excited to Welcome Gracia Kremer as its New Executive Director Waterford Communities Assisted Living is excited to announce the hiring of Gracia Kremer as their new executive director. Gracia comes to Waterford with 18 years of experience in the Lincoln healthcare community. Through her time spent working in the hospital systems, physical therapy, home care, and hospice, her passion for collaborative and compassionate healthcare has deepened.

Having worked in many different areas of healthcare allows Gracia to see things from many different aspects and angles. She is passionate about providing the absolute highest quality of care for residents, along with the most gratifying and fulfilling work experience for every team member.

Gracia has lived in Lincoln for more than 18 years and considers it home. When she is not working, she spends her time with family and friends. Gracia and Jeremy have two kids, and attending their sporting events fills most of their evenings and weekends.

She also loves hosting gatherings with friends, cooking, decorating, and tackling home-improvement projects—and she loves to travel, especially to a beach.

For more information about The Waterford Communities Assisted Living, call (402) 423-0000, email home@thewaterford.net, or visit www.thewaterford.net.

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PERSONNEL NEWS

DAILY TACO SPECIALS? 200+ TEQUILAS? 32 DRAFT BEERS?

Lincoln Federal Savings Welcomes Hannah Bradney as Customer Service Supervisor Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is pleased to welcome Hannah Bradney as a new Customer Service Supervisor. In this role, she will facilitate deposit growth and relationship-building, as well as carry out the bank’s promise of “Personal Banking Like You Remember.” Hannah brings with her years of banking experience, which she began while attending Nebraska Wesleyan University, where she earned her degree in biochemistry. After graduation, she began pursuing her banking career full-time in various positions, including teller supervisor and credit underwriter.

Paired with her experience, Hannah’s passion for being a good person and helping anyone with issues, large or small, makes her an incredible asset to the Lincoln Federal Savings Bank team.

Hannah is a self-proclaimed “huge nerd!” When she isn’t watching Star Wars, you can find her volunteering at her local animal shelter or assisted-living facility: “It’s just a small thing for me to do that will make a lasting impact on the people and community around me.”

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank specializes in personal checking accounts, savings accounts, home mortgage, home-equity products, and commercial real-estate loans. To connect with Hannah about your banking needs, visit Lincoln Federal Savings Bank at 27th & Yankee Hill. She would be honored to help you reach your goals!

For more information, visit lincolnfed.com or call (402) 421-8929.

Lincoln Voters Elect Nicki Behmer, John Olsson to Serve on Airport Authority Lincoln voters who turned out for the general election on May 4 elected Independent candidate Nicki Behmer and Republican John Olsson as the two new members of the Lincoln Airport Authority. They will each serve a six-year term on the five-member board, which meets once a month and is responsible for setting policy for the Airport and overseeing the budget for Lincoln Airport and its LNK Enterprise Park industrial area. All board positions for the Airport Authority are unpaid.

Nicki is a Realtor, and John is a licensed pilot and professional engineer. Prior to the election, both said they supported the Airport Authority levying a property tax to pay for a $56 million terminal modernization project.

“I’m humbled that Lincolnites have given me the opportunity to represent them and help grow our airport and its operations,” Nicki said upon being elected. “I am excited to get to work and not only begin improving our infrastructure, but also to assist staff in expanding air service operations and build more relationships with stakeholders and our community.”

John is also looking forward to pursuing growth for the Lincoln Airport: “I’m ecstatic about being allowed the opportunity to serve this great community. As a Board member, there is great alignment of my passion for aviation and my appreciation for how infrastructure can drive opportunity and growth.”

For more information about the Lincoln Airport Authority, visit lincolnairport.com or call (402) 458-2480. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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PERSONNEL NEWS Oak Electric Welcomes Zach Stroup to Team Wagner Achieves At Home with Diversity® Oak Electric, Inc. is excited to welcome Certification from REALTORS® Association Journeyman Electrician Zach Stroup to the team, where he will play a key part in the growth of the company. Zach brings a wide range of experience and is an asset to Oak Electric, with more than 15 years of experience and says “I still learn something new every day,” adding that he gains personal satisfaction by staying focused on the task and providing a solution.

Zach was born and raised in Benkleman and is blessed with two young children. His small-town values and dedication to his family are on par with Oak Electric’s reputation for providing honest, dependable service. On his day off, he enjoys writing and playing music, and he is an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan.

Oak Electric, Inc. is a 100% woman-owned, premium contractor with a tradition of exemplary service. Their team of experienced electricians not only care about precision and craftsmanship but also value the real relationships that come with working with their customers. For more information, please visit oakelectriccompany. com or call (402) 440-5969.

NBA Elects 2021-22 Board of Directors At its May 5 annual meeting, the Nebraska Bankers Association (NBA) elected its 202122 Board of Directors, chairman, and chairman-elect. Kirk Riley, president, CEO, and chairman of the board of Waypoint Bank in Cozad, was selected to serve as chairman for the coming year. Riley has more than 40 years of experience in banking, has served in leadership roles in various banks, and joined Waypoint as executive vice president in 2004. He succeeds Chris Hove, president and CEO of Nebraska Bank of Commerce in Lincoln, as NBA president.

Kirk Riley

Selected as chairman-elect for the coming year is Stephen Stull, president and CEO of Farmers State Bank in Dodge. Stull received his degree in administration and finance from the University of Nebraska Lincoln and served at various banks in the state before he and his father and brother organized an investment group to purchase Farmers State Bank in 2011. Stull will assume the chairmanship of the NBA in May 2022.

Curtis Heapy of Western Nebraska Bank Stephen Stull in Curtis and Ryne Seaman of Cattle Bank & Trust in Seward were elected to serve in at-large positions on the 2021-22 NBA Board. Appointed to represent their respective institutions—the eight largest Nebraska financial institutions as of June 30, 2020—are Nicholas Baxter, First National Bank of Omaha in Omaha; Cory Bergt, Wells Fargo Bank in Lincoln; John Kotouc, American National Bank in Omaha; Kim Hammes, Bank of the West in Omaha; Zachary Holoch, Cornerstone Bank in York; Joseph Sullivan, U.S. Bank in Omaha; Dan Svehla, Union Bank & Trust in Lincoln; and Chris Wiedenfeld, Great Western Bank in Omaha.

For more information about the Nebraska Bankers Association, visit nebankders.org or call (402) 474-1555.

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Deb Wagner of Woods Bros Realty has been awarded the At Home with Diversity® certification from the National Association of REALTORS ® (NAR). Deb earned the certification after completing an eight-hour course addressing topics of diversity, fair housing, and business planning development. The program is designed to meet the nation's fair housing commitment by educating and equipping NAR's members with the tools they need to expand homeownership opportunities.

Real estate professionals like Deb wisely plan to meet the needs of diverse clients, while maintaining a competitive edge.

The At Home with Diversity® certification allows REALTORS® to not only apply the multi-faceted skills and tools they learned in the course to business practices but conveys to clients that they are dynamic real estate professionals with expertise that transcends cultural barriers.

For more information on the At Home with Diversity® certification, visit nar.realtor/ahwd. To contact Deb Wagner with Woods Bros Realty, visit HomeSalesByDeb.com, email Deb.Wagner@woodsbrosrealty. com, or call her directly at (402) 440-1314.

Jessica Steele-Codr, Tremale Berger Named Top Winners of Toastmasters Speech Contest Jessica Steele-Codr of Omaha and Tremale Berger of Los Angeles, CA placed first in their respective speech categories during the District 24 Speech Contest, held over Zoom and livestreamed to YouTube for public viewers on April 17. Jessica won the Humorous speech category with “Zoom It Up a Notch,” a priceless “informative” speech filled with the best Zoom tips that an excessively upbeat social-media influencer could offer. The Humorous contest category ends at the District level. Meanwhile, Tremale finished first in the International speech category, captivating the audience with his speech, “A Warm Place,” an emotional account of the struggles he faced on his journey to find love—and a reminder that love heals all.

Jessica Steele-Codr

Tremale will advance to the Regional Quarterfinals for the next round, where a video recording of his presentation will be judged against other speeches from across the Midwest and central Canada.

The first- and second-place winners of that contest will advance to the International Tremale Berger Speech Contest Semifinals. Other District 24 contestants in the International category featured Mitchell Nickerson of Grand Island (second), Kristin Malek of Lincoln (third), and Ash Banaszek of Omaha. Humorous category contestants also included Carol Sullivan of Norfolk (second), Debra Morton-Chale of Auburn (third), and Rebecca Fegan of Bellevue.

Toastmasters International empowers individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. Toastmasters District 24 includes more than 60 clubs and 1,000 members across Nebraska and Council Bluffs, IA. Learn more at d24tm.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

PERSONNEL NEWS BBB Honors Students of Integrity in Region via 2021 Scott Mecham Scholarship Awards

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YOU SAVE On April 26, the Better Business Bureau * (BBB) announced the winners of the 2021 Scott Mecham Student of Integrity Award month Scholarships in BBB’s Metro Lincoln/Greater First 3 months @ $4.95/mo. with installation cost of $149; after Nebraska service region—including Kortney introductory period, rental is $23/mo.

Hamer of Central City, Emmalee Harder of Randolph, and Madison Kreifels of Shop and compare at Syracuse. The scholarships aim to promote ilovemywater.com iLoveMyWater.com ethics and integrity among young people TEMS and motivate them to continue incorporating WAT E R S OF N E R S · DRINKING SYS TE moral values into every aspect of their lives, with decisions based mainly on the content Kortney Hamer of a required essay about a situation in which the students were personally involved 2020AquaSystems_3_68x2_41.indd 1 3/19/20 10:58 AM that tested their ethical philosophy. Each of these graduating students won a $2,000 post-secondary scholarship from BBB’s Husker Rehab is proud to employ Education Foundation. many wonderful students and “These Students of Integrity personify all recently congratulated their of the best aspects of ethical behavior and graduating student employees fine character in their personal choices and on their achievements and wished actions,” said BBB President and CEO Jim them all the best in their future Hegarty. “Unlike many other scholarships, endeavors. Those students and grades, financial need, and ethnicity are not their accomplishments include: Emmalee Harder factors in selecting the recipients. Kortney, • Sydney Wilson, Master of Art Emmalee, and Madison are receiving these degree in the College of Higher scholarships because of their commitment Education Administration. to honesty and accountability inside and outside of the classroom.”

• Kristen Setlik, bachelor’s degree in the College of Education and Kortney is graduating from Central City Human Sciences. Accepted into the Doctor of Physical Therapy High School and will attend Grand Canyon program at Creighton University.

University in Phoenix, AZ. She will be majoring • Chase Ochs, bachelor’s degree in the College of Education and in business administration with a minor in Human Sciences. accounting or finance. After receiving a bachelor’s degree, she plans to work in a • Erin Stocking, bachelor’s degree in the College of Education and business and then earn a master’s degree.

Human Sciences, and in ROTC, commissions as a Second Lieutenant Emmalee is graduating from Randolph High Madison Kreifels Military Intelligence Officer in the Nebraska National Guard.

School and will be attending the University of Nebraska Lincoln to major in elementary and special education. She • Ali McElroy, bachelor’s degree in the College of Education and plans to get involved in organizations and activities that promote the Human Sciences. Accepted into the Doctor of Physical Therapy well-being of children and help educate families on good child-rearing Program at UNMC College of Medicine. practices. Madison is graduating from Syracuse-Dunbar-Avoca High • Abby Meyer, bachelor’s degree in the College of Education and School and plans to major in agricultural and environmental sciences Human Sciences. Accepted into the Doctor of Physical Therapy communication with a minor in entrepreneurship at the University of Program in South Dakota.

Nebraska-Lincoln. She is interested in owning her own business to continue her family’s agricultural legacy.

• Currey Zalman, bachelor’s degree in the College of Biochemistry.

Better Business Bureau provides objective advice, free BBB Business Accepted into the M.D. program at UNMC College of Medicine.

Profiles on more than 5.3 million companies, 11,000 charity reviews, • Wyatt Scott, accepted into Physical Therapist Assistant program dispute resolution services, alerts, and educational information on topics at Southeast Community College in Lincoln. affecting marketplace trust. Please visit BBB.org for more information. *

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Husker Rehab Celebrates Student Successes

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. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

• Gilberto Arellano, accepted into Physical Therapist Assistant program at Southeast Community College in Lincoln.

The compassionate staff at Husker Rehab are movement-therapy experts who understand the biomechanics of the body and work with your other healthcare providers to integrate your medical care so that you achieve the best outcomes possible. With two locations in Lincoln, their physical-therapy and wellness services are designed thoughtfully to support your goals with a customized program based on the initial evaluation and presentation to the clinic with ongoing assessment and progression to reach your goals.

For more information or if you are interested in joining the team at Husker Rehab, visit huskerrehab.com or contact Patty at Husker Rehab North (402) 477-3110.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Amy Killham Celebrates 5 Years of Life At Southeast Community College Celebrates Bob The Ridge, Private Neighborhood Magazine Morgan Retirement After Over 30 Years Amy Killham is celebrating her five-year anniversary of publishing a private monthly magazine called Life At The Ridge for The Ridge neighborhood in southwest Lincoln. Amy works for The N2 Company, a nationwide company that connects residents in affluent neighborhoods through magazines that feature stories and photos about kids, pets, new neighbors moving in, and neighborhood events. Residents love and hang on to the magazines. They are very involved, enthusiastically providing the content and photos. Life At The Ridge also connects local businesses with their ideal client through print and social media ads and private social events.

“It’s like we give our business partners a backstage pass to personally meet their perfect, potential customers," said Amy. In the past five years, Amy is most proud of the fact that she's introduced residents to each other through events and they are still friends, years later. She also loves hearing that businesses have gotten multiple jobs in The Ridge neighborhood as a result of running an advertisement in the magazine. Amy looks forward to continuing to helping Lincoln businesses be seen and be successful through N2’s full-service branding: print, digital, social events, and website development. She is also excited to get back to inperson events this year!

To congratulate Amy on five years or inquire about advertising in Life At The Ridge, call (402) 450-1959 or email amy.killham@n2pub.com.

Southeast Community College (SCC) recently celebrated the retirement of Bob Morgan from his position as Beatrice campus director and vice president of program development after 31 years of service. Bob started out as a business instructor at the Lincoln Campus and ended managing the Beatrice Campus. What he will miss most about his time at SCC is the ability to impact student lives for the better.

SCC’s mission is critical to the development of students and employers across the state of Nebraska and beyond. Bob's role in program development led to the opening of six centers across SCC’s 15-county area which gave rural constituents access to education.

SCC provides educational opportunities to students of all ages and backgrounds. Staffed by experienced instructors, SCC is lauded by academics and professionals alike for its rigorous curriculum and practical courses. Each class offers a unique learning experience, with theoretical academic instruction and hands-on, practical training. With low tuition rates and scholarships, SCC makes learning fun, relevant, and affordable, no matter what your field of study.

To schedule an appointment with an admissions counselor, call Southeast Community College directly at (402) 228-8214 (Beatrice), (402) 4372600 (Lincoln), or (402) 761-8243 (Milford). You can also visit www. southeast.edu for more information.

Nebraska Sports Council Honors Dave Mlnarik for 30 Years of Service

City Bank & Trust Co. is pleased to announce the addition of six new associates to its team of dedicated banking and finance advisors, including Shawn Lang, senior vice president; Lori and Steve Soflin, vice president – mortgage originators; Diana Swarts, senior mortgage underwriter; Jeremy Shaffer, assistant vice president – mortgage; and Kris Walton, senior mortgage processor. The addition of new associates will further aid the bank’s aspiration of growing its involvement in the communities where it serves.

Shawn has been in banking for more than 22 years and has managed a mortgage team for the past 20 years. Lori has been in banking for 33 years and has been a mortgage loan officer for 30 of those years.

A few years ago, she convinced her husband Steve to join her team, and together they love helping people make their homeownership dreams come true. Diana has been involved with credit and mortgage for 24 years. The last eight of those years has been spent as a mortgage underwriter, with all endorsements, including SARS & DE. Jeremy studied economics at Nebraska Wesleyan and went on to work in the credit union sector and as a client service analyst for Fiserv before joining City Bank this year. Kris also comes from the credit union sector with additional experience as an escrow officer.

Locally owned since 1910, City Bank & Trust is a community bank with six locations, serving the needs of Crete, Lincoln, and southeast Nebraska. The bank and its courteous professionals recognize the importance of personal relationships and is reflected in all that they do. As a full-service banking institution, City Bank is large enough to serve all your personal or commercial banking needs, yet small enough to give you the personal attention you deserve that only a locally-owned, community bank can provide. City Bank & Trust Co., member FDIC, is an equal housing lender and equal opportunity employer. Learn more online at www.citybankandtrust.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Executive Director Dave Mlnarik was recognized for his 30 years of service with the Nebraska Sports Council (NSC). The tribute to Dave took place at the Council’s Board meeting on April 29. Board President Rob Trebilcock and long-time Board member JoAnne Owens-Nausler commented on Dave’s leadership and service with NSC, remarking on the tremendous growth he has been a part of and the countless lives he has positively impacted.

“Dave Mlnarik, we honor you as the someone and we acknowledge the something as the biggest, best, and well-run State Games in the United States. You and our amazing staff have done a tremendous job maintaining, sustaining, and ensuring the longevity of The Cornhusker State Games,” OwensNauslar said.

Dave started with the Nebraska Sports Council in 1991 as the Cornhusker State Games torch-run coordinator. He later became promotions director in 1992, assistant director in 1998, and began his current position as executive director in 2004. Dave is an important component in all NSC operations and remains dedicated to sustain the longevity of the Cornhusker State Games in these unprecedented times.

The Nebraska Sports Council is a nonprofit organization with a mission to provide quality competition for athletes of all ages and abilities while promoting healthy and active lifestyle choices. NSC directs the Cornhusker State Games, the WellPower Movement, the Pumpkin Run, and the Lincoln and Omaha Corporate Games. For more information, visit NebraskaSportsCouncil.com or contact Ashley Kramer at (402) 471-2544 / Ashley@nebraskasportscouncil.com.

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City Bank & Trust Co. Announces the Addition of Six New Associates

PERSONNEL NEWS

Pollack & Ball, LLC

Luxury Landscape Welcomes Ryan Newman Luxury Landscape in Lincoln recently welcomed Ryan Newman to its team of outdoor landscapers. Ryan plants, builds retaining walls, does lots of shoveling— but, most of all, he turns blah into beautiful! Originally from Fayetteville, NC, he currently lives just outside of Lincoln. Ryan said he is motivated to wake up and go to work at Luxury Landscape each day because “I love the work grind, the environment around me, and the team effort by all the crew.” His favorite thing about landscaping is the creativity behind each project and learning something new every day.

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When Ryan isn't busy busting out beautiful landscapes, he loves spending time with his small family, playing video games, cheering for the Chicago Bears, and experiencing Nebraska. Something most people don't know about Ryan is that he moved 1,052 miles across the country to be with the love of his life! Ryan is very personable and down to earth, so if you see him out there creating gorgeous and unique landscapes, be sure to say Hi! Luxury Landscape LLC was born from owners Jackie and Ken Svoboda’s shared passion for creating unique landscapes that set outdoor living spaces apart from neighbors. From beautifying planters to a complete landscape makeover, Luxury Landscape provides services every step of the way. For more information or to view a gallery of their work, go to www.luxurylandscape-llc.com or schedule an appointment by calling (402) 430-9430 / (402) 640-6034.

Pemberly Place’s Jolin Nguyen and Kendra Haight Certified as Dementia Practitioners Pemberly Place is excited to announce that Memory Support Administrative Assistant Jolin Nguyen and Memory Support House Supervisor Kendra Haight have completed training to become Certified Dementia Practitioners. Memory support has always been a big part of Pemberly Place, and this training is part of the community’s mission to educate all direct-care staff about how to provide a successful memory-care environment.

Having Jolin and Kendra obtain their Certified Dementia Practitioner licenses is Jolin Nguyen beneficial to both existing Pemberly Place residents and new residents who join the community. During the certification process, Jolin and Kendra learned about the many types of dementia—and that no two cases are the same. They also learned about various ways to treat residents who have dementia, at all stages of the disease, and even picked up some techniques for improving existing treatments.

Pemberly Place challenges their residents with dementia and other cognitive disorders every Kendra Haight day, beginning by working with them and their families to create Individualized Care Plans. Keeping residents engaged with activities throughout the day and providing that one-on-one support is their No. 1 priority. In fact, Pemberly Place is known throughout Lincoln for their creative service planning and attention to each resident’s individual needs. Locally owned, the community offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care options. To learn more, call (402) 413-9770 or visit pemberlyplace.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS People’s City Mission’s Pastor Tom Spends Time on Streets Advocating for Homeless For the fourth consecutive year, Pastor Tom of People’s City Mission (PCM) will be going for 24 hours without food or sleep, advocating for the homeless. From 1 p.m. on June 25 to 1 p.m. on June 26, he will be in the Haymarket, on the southwest corner of 8th and P streets. Pastor Tom will be talking with guests throughout the 24 hours, and there will be music, coffee from Starbucks—which is helping to sponsor the event—as well as sidewalk chalk and bubbles.

PCM invites the community to stop by and say hi, write a message of encouragement in chalk, and support the homeless.

PCM operates on the belief that when you give a little, you can change a lot. During this event, they are encouraging folks to join Only251.org, a PCM campaign based off of the principle of doing a lot by starting small: You can feed one person one meal once a month at the Mission for only $2.51. That’s less than the price of a cup of coffee—and just one time per month! PCM’s goal is to encourage 20,000 people to join forces through Only251.org, making it possible to feed every person in Lincoln who is experiencing homelessness.

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.

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Join in on Hop, SCIP, Jump and RUN June 4 The School Community Intervention & Prevention (SCIP) annual fundraiser, “Hop, SCIP, Jump and RUN,” brought to you by Family Health & Wellness Center, P.C., returns this year after a one-year absence due to COVID-19.

The event is scheduled for June 4 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Antelope Park. It’s a great family-friendly event with activity booths run by volunteers and others sponsored by local nonprofits, including Child Advocacy Center, the Malone Center, and Big Brothers Big Sisters, to name just a few. Julie’s Hot Dogs food truck will also be on-site, and the 1-mile Fun Run for kids and adults begins at 7 p.m.!

Registration for the Fun Run is $15, but the event is FREE for people who aren’t running but want to participate in other activities! If you visit a minimum of 10 booths, you can enter a drawing for prizes from businesses including the Lincoln Escape Room, Omaha Storm Chasers, Adventure Golf, Bright Lights, Scheel’s, Corky Canvas, Raising Cane’s, Sun Valley Lanes, Tiger Rock Academy, Papio Fun Park, and several fast-food establishments. The top three winners of the 1-Mile Fun Run for runners ages 18 and younger will also be awarded prizes. On-site registration for the Fun Run will be available the day of the event or you can register online at scipnebraska.com until 3 p.m. on June 2.

School Community Intervention & Prevention works with schools statewide by providing tools and resources to address behavioral and emotional health issues that impact children, adolescents, and their families. Money raised at this event will help SCIP provide needed resources to schools and families in need. Direct questions to Valerie Hotsenpillar at vhotsenpillar@lmep.com / (402) 327-6843.

#PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS Community Action to Grow Early Childhood Programming, Expand Workforce in Lincoln On April 21, Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird and Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties announced that Community Action has received a $1,660,500 annual grant from Head Start to expand its Early Head Start programming in Lincoln. Funding will allow Community Action to build its early childhood enrollment capacity from 421 to 493, adding 72 full-day, full-year center-based enrollment slots for infants and toddlers. In addition to expanding access to high-quality early childhood education, the grant will create 30 new jobs in Lincoln.

Community Action is actively recruiting early childhood professionals to join its team.

This additional funding will enable the agency to open another center, housing nine classrooms, at 26th and N Streets, in an area where c h i l d p o ve r t y ra t e s a r e among the highest in the city.

Community Action estimates that there are approximately 2,000 infants and toddlers in Lincoln who would income-qualify for Early Head Start services.

Opening the new early childhood education center is possible in part thanks to the partnership of Speedway Properties, who will be remodeling their property at 2615 O St. to accommodate young learners. The agency expects the center to be fully operational by fall to provide seven hours of services Monday through Friday at no cost to families.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to not only provide kindergarten-readiness services to more children, but to give more parents a cost-free childcare option as they work and participate in programs to build economic stability,” said Community Action Executive Director Vi See. Community support is also needed to make this program expansion possible. The agency needs to raise just over $61,000 to support the purchase of furniture and supplies to ready nine classrooms before fall. Things like cribs, cubbies, tables and chairs, and educational materials will all be needed before children are welcomed into the new space.

“We’re fortunate to be in such a giving community, and one that understands the importance of ensuring access to early childhood education,” See said. “We certainly invite all individuals, groups, businesses, and other entities to partner with us to give children in our community the opportunity to succeed.”

Community Action has been welcoming children and families from at-risk backgrounds into its Head Start early childhood education programs in Lincoln for more than 55 years. Their center-based programs respond to a critical local need for high-quality, affordable, full-day early childhood education services. To learn more about Community Action Head Start, view available job openings, or donate, visit www.communityactionatwork.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS DSAF Supplies Summer Enrichment Boxes for Kids and Adults with Down Syndrome

NAM Grant Writing and Fundraising Palooza to Provide Critical Skills, Tips, Best Practices

Thanks to a generous donation from the Lincoln Community Foundation, the Down Syndrome Association for Families (DSAF) of Nebraska is offering summer enrichment boxes for Lincoln-area infants/toddlers, schoolaged children, and young adults/adults with Down syndrome! A total of 15 boxes are available on a first-come, first-served basis for each age group, while supplies last. New boxes will be available for pick up monthly at a to-be-determined location in Lincoln. Each box will deliver fun and engaging materials that also meet educational standards. The contents include: • Themed craft/sensory item • Reading activity and/or book with link to a read aloud • Writing activity • Math activity • Gross/fine motor activity • Fun, high-interest social interaction activity (Pokémon cards with link to play virtually, for example) The Down Syndrome Association for Families (DSAF) 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. Families can reserve a summer enrichment box for their loved one with Down syndrome by visiting dsafnebraska.org/ summer. For more information, contact Jamie Bertucci at director@ dsafnebraska.org or call (402) 421-1338.

If you are part of a nonprofit organization with fundraising needs, the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) is hosting a two-day Grant Writing and Fundraising Palooza that can help you achieve your goals.

On Tuesday, June 15 and Wednesday, June 16, NAM will lead two days of webinars on all things grant writing and fundraising.

Participants will learn critical skills from experts, hear from local funders, and network with peers to share ideas about grant writing and fundraising best practices. The nine hours of content will include breakout sessions on topics, including The Psychology of Giving, Online Fundraising Performance, Utilizing the Logic Model in Grant Writing, Fundraising Events, Demystifying Reporting, and Evaluation.

The Grant Writing and Fundraising Palooza will include a keynote presentation, “Asking thru Adversity,” from Matt Lehrman of Social Prosperity Partners. He will talk about being more caring, creative, and compelling with donors, members, sponsors, and other stakeholders. Participants will emerge with 12 specific actions to weave strength into their nonprofits’ fundraising efforts in the face of disruption and uncertainty. The cost to attend is $150 for NAM members and $300 for not-yet members.

The Nonprofit Association of the Midlands is a state association that represents more than 700 nonprofit organizations in Nebraska and southwest Iowa. Register for the Grant Writing and Fundraising Palooza at nonprofitam.org/events or contact Rosey Higgs at Rosey@nonprofitam.org for more information.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Friendship Home Announces Summer Needs With the weather getting warmer, school coming to a close, and outdoor activities kicking off, the needs at Friendship Home are changing. During the summer months, the families they serve can spend more time together and more time outdoors, so some of the biggest needs include, but are not limited to, sunscreen, bug spray, outdoor games, beach towels, water balloons, and the like.

Friendship Home also needs things that families can go experience and have fun doing together, like gift cards for miniature golfing, bowling, museums or zoos, or pool passes. Whatever your family likes doing together in the summer, families at Friendship Home would enjoy and appreciate, too. The hope is for the community to donate items to help these families fully enjoy their summers and time together! If you are able to help fulfill any of their summer needs, call the Friendship Home donation line at (402) 437-9301.

Friendship Home provides crisis services, emergency shelter, and transitional housing to victims of domestic violence and their children.

If you, or someone you know, is experiencing domestic violence, please call Friendship Home's 24/7 crisis line at (402) 437-9302.

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Junior Achievement Lincoln Recognizes Top Business Partners Volunteering this Year Junior Achievement (JA) of Lincoln is excited to recognize the Top 10 outstanding local business partners who provided the most volunteers to teach Junior Achievement lessons during the 2020-21 school year. Combined, these businesses and their employees reached nearly 250 classrooms and 5,000 students across Lincoln. JA students benefit from financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship programs that are proven to help them get prepared for real life in the real world. The Top 10 JA Lincoln business partners this year include: • Ameritas Life Insurance Corporation • Capital One Financial Corporation • Fiserv • Hudl • Legacy Retirement Communities • Lincoln Industries • Molex • Sandhills Global • Union Bank & Trust • West Gate Bank Because of the strong partnerships with these local businesses, every Junior Achievement of Lincoln classroom had its own community volunteer to connect with students via Zoom and receive the complete Junior Achievement experience. JA of Lincoln is on target to reach more than 1,000 classrooms and 22,000 students this school year and are one of few JA areas in the nation still delivering in-class programs at such a high rate. None of these successes would have been possible without these devoted business partners and their wonderful employees, who partnered with JA to bring community connection and inspirational, meaningful lessons to thousands of Lincoln students. For more information about JA of Lincoln, visit lincoln.ja.org or contact Education Director Rachel Murray at (402) 467-1741 or rmurray@jalincoln.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Vision Maker Media Celebrates 4 New Films by, about Native Americans, Alaska Natives Vision Maker Media is celebrating four new films in its library, continuing their tradition as the premier source of public media by and about Native Americans and Alaska Natives for 45 years. Without a Whisper explores the untold story of how Indigenous women influenced the early suffragists in their fight for freedom and equality. Blood Memory follows the untold history of America’s Indian Adoption Era when nearly one-third of children were removed from tribal communities nationwide. As political scrutiny over Indian child welfare intensifies, a survivor of the Adoption Era helps others find their way home through song and ceremony.

Also added recently was Sisters Rising, which is the story of six Native women fighting to heal their society crippled for far too long by violence against Indigenous women in the United States. Finally, Vision Maker Media has added Chasing Voices to its library. It is the extraordinary life’s journey of controversial ethnographer John Peabody Harrington, who compiled well over 1 million pages of notes about more than 100 different Native American languages during his 50-year career.

Vision Maker Media is a nonprofit established in 1976 with support from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and Nebraska Educational Television (NET). Their mission is to empower and engage Native people to share their stories. Find airings of these four films in your area by checking your local PBS listings, or visiting pbs.org/ tv_schedules/. Learn about Vision Maker Media’s full collection of high-quality films by visiting visionmakermedia.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Fresh Start Announces Customers Can Now Shop at The Daisy Without an Appointment

Register Today for Annual Aiding Angels Golfing for a Reason Tourney August 21

Fresh Start’s The Daisy thrift shop is now open to customers without appointments! Shop hours are Thursdays 4-7 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Masks are required and social distancing between shoppers is encouraged.

Volunteers are sanitizing high-touch points regularly. The Daisy is operated completely by volunteers. In 2020, even with reduced hours due to the pandemic, The Daisy raised $26,471, and Fresh Start is excited to raise even more funds to go toward their mission now that it is again easier for customers to shop.

Spots fill quic kly, so register today for the 13th annual Golfing for a Reason Tournament that tees up on Saturday, August 21 to support the Aiding Angels Foundation. Set for a 1 p.m. shotgun start at Highlands Golf Course, the tournament promises a full day of fun and includes men’s, women’s, and couple’s flights. Proceeds from Golfing for a Reason will benefit Aiding Angels in providing FREE professional housecleaning services to improve the lives of women, men, and children in our community who are dealing with cancer, so they can focus on treatment and healing and their families can focus on them!

Sponsorships for the tournament are available, and registration runs $125 per person or $500 per team, including greens fees, cart, gift, dinner, and giveaways.

Proceeds from The Daisy support Fresh Start, a goal-orientated program helping homeless women overcome barriers to economic stability. Fresh Start provides basic needs, case management, and support, and they are always looking for more volunteers to join the team and more customers to enjoy a positive experience shopping high-quality clothing at discounted prices. Please visit The Daisy at 6433 Havelock Ave. or contact Audrey at (402) 475-7777 / audreyb@FreshStartHome. org for more information. You can also connect with Fresh Start at FreshStartHome.org or on Facebook (@FreshStartHomeLincoln / @ thedaisythriftshop).

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Fighting cancer is difficult enough but living with it is even tougher— and that’s where Aiding Angels Foundation steps in. The Aiding Angels Foundation offers free, professional cleaning services for individuals fighting cancer in Lincoln. Given the global health concerns of the day, their services may be more important than ever. For more information about the 2021 Golfing For A Reason Tournament, visit aidingangels.com, follow them on Facebook (@ aidingangels), or contact Brenda Schwery at (402) 434-2472 / Brenda@maid-to-please.com.

#PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS Arc of Lincoln Invites Families to Join Annual Picnic Fun at Trago Spray Park The Arc of Lincoln is inviting the community to join them for their Annual Picnic and fun times on June 13 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will be at the open shelter at Trago Spray Park, at 22nd and U Street, behind the Malone Center. The Arc of Lincoln will provide hamburgers and hot dogs, an individual bag of potato chips, and water for lunch, and they will have many yard games available to play— including Yahtzee, bean-bag toss, croquet, and lots of bubbles! If your children want to use the water spray park, be sure to bring a towel and proper clothing and shoes—and don’t forget the sunscreen.

The Arc of Lincoln looks forward to seeing everyone join together in a safe, outdoor environment. Amid the picnic fun, families will have the opportunity to sign up for membership to The Arc of Lincoln, which is just $5 per year!

The mission of the Arc of Lincoln is to encourage and provide opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to lead productive lives and to achieve their full potential. For more information, visit advocacypartnership.org or contact Michelle Johnson at (402) 421-8866.

Multi Color Printing • Full Color Envelopes • Graphic Design • Digital Black & White Wide Format Color • Digital Color Copies • Engineering Copies – Color/B&W Crazy Fast Service

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NHTSA and NESC: Get Up to Speed on Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month The U.S. Depar tment of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) partnered with the Nebraska Safety Council (NESC) to remind all motorists to “Get Up to Speed on Motorcycles” during Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. NHTSA has designed this campaign to help motorists understand standard motorcycle driving behaviors and learn how to drive safely around motorcycles on our roadways. The campaign brings drivers up to speed by highlighting simple things drivers can do to increase the safety of their two-wheeled friends who have very little protection in the event of a crash.

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month coincides with the early summer months, as motorcyclists begin to ride more frequently. Unfortunately, motorcyclists are significantly overrepresented in traffic crashes and fatalities each year. In fact, per vehicle mile traveled, motorcyclists are about 29 times more likely than passenger-vehicle occupants to die in a motor vehicle crash and are four times more likely to be injured. It is essential that vehicle drivers pay complete attention on the roads because even the smallest momentary lapse in a vehicle driver’s awareness can result in the death of an unseen motorcyclist.

The Nebraska Safety Council offers a three-day motorcycle training course to give motorcyclists the classroom education and skills practice on an outdoor motorcycle range to prepare them for the road. Upon completion of this course, the rider will receive the “M” endorsement on their driver’s license. Courses are available for registration JuneSeptember, so sign up today! For more information on motorcycle safety, visit www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/motorcycles. To register for the NESC Basic Motorcycle Training Course, visit nesafetycouncil.org/ index.php/driving/motorcycle-training. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS

Transform Your Outdoor Space

DreamCatchers Offering Hands-on Sessions for Adults with Fears, No Horse Experience

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

DreamCatchers Ride is expanding their horizons to help more people understand the beauty of bonding with horses. Their latest offerings are hands-on “Meet a Horse” sessions for adults who have never been up-close-and-personal with a horse or who have fears of horses that they want to overcome. The sessions will not include riding horses, but will on be on the ground, where novices will have support of experts to get comfortable with these tremendous animals and experience the power of a human/horse bond.

Research indicates that about 8% of the population suffers from a fear of horses, or Equinophobia. These new DreamCatchers Ride sessions can help you at least reduce your fears, whether they stem from a negative horse experience as a child, a horse accident involving someone you know, the very size of the animals, or an unknown or innate fear.

Jodi Freeman founded DreamCatchers Ride in 2018 based on the knowledge that there are many people in Lincoln who have a passion for horses but whose families simply cannot afford the time or financial commitment a horse requires. They provide a safe place where, through learning about equine companionship and care, people can be comfortable and able to express themselves. For more information, visitdreamcatchersride.org. To inquire about scheduling a Meet A Horse session, email Jodi at jodi@dreamcatchersride.org or call (402) 679-3996.

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It’s Not too Late to Register Students to Participate in Bright Lights Summer Camps It’s not too late to register your students for 2021 Bright Lights Summer Learning Adventure Camps half-day and full-day camps. In fact, they accept registrations until the week before each camp begins! Bright Lights Summer Camps gives youth the opportunity to focus on their talents, strengths, and interests in camps that will make the most of their out-of-school time. It’s an ideal way for K-8 students to maximize the fun of summer vacation while reassuring parents that their children are avoiding “the summer slide” learning loss. If your student is too old for a Bright Lights Camp, they can gain some resume-worthy experience and fun volunteer hours by applying to be a camp assistant. These valuable volunteers provide support to teachers in each of Bright Lights’ 90+ camps, enriching the experience for everyone involved.

Bright Lights camps take place in five week-long sessions: June 7-11, June 14-18, June 21-25, June 28-July 2, and July 12-16. Want to make it a full day of fun without registering for a full-day camp?

Just choose a half-day morning camp at Holmes Elementary, and then add Lunch Care and a half-day afternoon camp at Holmes. If you need to drop kids off before you head to work, Bright Lights also offers Before Care beginning at 7:30 a.m. at select sites. Simply select it during the online registration process.

To register for 2021 Bright Lights Summer Learning Adventure Camps, visit BrightLights.org and click on the registration link.

You can filter the camp results by the grade your student was in as of February 27, 2021 and view all the half- and full-day camps from which your particular student can choose. To apply to become a camp assistant, visit brightlights.org/assistants. If you have additional questions, call (402) 420-1115. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Several Models available to choose from!

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To reserve your lot contact Jayson Becker at Bancwise Realty 402-610-1013 | Jbecker@bancwise.com Gardenviewcommunities.com JUNE 2021 Strictly Business

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Get Your Trees Professionally Trimmed Before Mother Nature Does it for You! Tree trimming is more than just removing dead limbs, stump grinding, and falling trees.

It’s about beautification and protection.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Angels Among Us Opens Registration for 15-Year Anniversary Celebratory Event Angels Among Us has opened registration for its 15-year anniversary celebration, scheduled for Friday, October 15 at Embassy Suites in La Vista. “An Evening Among Angels Crystal Ball” will celebrate 15 years of positively impacting families whose children are battling pediatric cancer in Nebraska. Sponsorships and registration are open to the public at myangelsamongus.org, and the organization sends out a special thank you to presenting sponsor Aflac and to Honorary Chairs Shirley Young Armitage and Dr. James Armitage. Other key sponsors include The Brian Duensing Foundation, Feltz Wealthplan Partners, Firepsrint, and Fusion Medical Staffing.

This milestone event will include various activities beginning at 5:30 p.m., including cocktail hour, large silent action, interactive cocktail games, a plated meal, live auction, and a short program—all to help the pediatric cancer families Angels Among Us serves.

Angels Among Us is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide financial and emotional support to any family whose child is battling pediatric cancer living in or being treated in the state of Nebraska. For more information about ways to make a difference and get involved in the Angels Among Us mission, please contact Aly Theilen at alyssa@myangelsamongus.org.

Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach Earns FourStar Rating from Charity Navigator Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach’s strong financial health and commitment to accountability and transparency have earned it a coveted 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest independent charity evaluator. This is the seventh consecutive year that Matt Talbot has earned this top distinction.

Only 8% of charities evaluated by Charity Navigator have received at least seven consecutive 4-star evaluations, indicating that Matt Talbot is among the top charities in America in adhering to sector best practices and executing its mission in a financially efficient way.

“Matt Talbot Kitc hen & Outreac h’s exceptional 4-star rating sets it apart from its peers and demonstrates its trustworthiness to the public,” according to Michael Thatcher, president and CEO of Charity Navigator.

Matt Talbot is one of only five charities in Lincoln and 28 in Nebraska to receive Charity Navigator’s highest rating of four stars.

“We want to share this news with our generous community to affirm that we are using their donations wisely to defeat hunger and homelessness,” said Matt Talbot Executive Director Susanne Blue.

“Our 4-star Charity Navigator rating demonstrates to our supporters our good governance and financial accountability.”

The mission of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is to serve the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of Lincoln’s working poor and homeless through outreach, advocacy, education, and the provision of food and shelter. To learn more visit mtko.org. To view Matt Talbot’s rating and other information about charitable giving free of charge, go to charitynavigator.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS TeamMates Honors 92 Graduating Seniors, CBMC Lincoln’s 20th Annual Golf Classic Awards Scholarships, at Spring Celebration Tees Up at Wilderness Ridge on July 26 During their virtual Spring Celebration, TeamMates Mentoring of Lincoln honored 92 TeamMates students for completing their high school careers. More than 20 of these students also earned scholarships from TeamMates partners and donors to help them pursue post-secondary education in the fall.

Typically, TeamMates hosts a celebration on University of Nebraska Lincoln campus to honor the seniors who have participated as mentees, to award scholarships, and to give community partners and donors the opportunity to meet the recipients of the scholarships they fund. This year, however, the event was held virtually as students, their families, mentors, school staff, TeamMates donors, and stakeholders joined TeamMates staff on Zoom to recognize all 92 graduates and hear congratulatory messages from TeamMates co-founder Tom Osborne, as well as a student speaker and LPS Superintendent Dr. Steve Joel.

“TeamMates Mentoring is a wonderful program,” one graduate said. “In the six or seven years of having my TeamMate, I can say she has helped me discover my individual strengths and (gave) me an overall better outlook on school.”

TeamMates Director Jim Bennett explained the important role that businesses and individuals play in mentoring youth through TeamMates: “TeamMates engages with local businesses and individuals to invite their partnership both as scholarship providers and as mentors,” he said.

“When young people see that community members believe in them, it supports their self-confidence and urges them forward.”

For more information about TeamMates Mentoring of Lincoln and to find out how you can make a difference in a child’s life, please visit LincolnTeamMates.com or call (402) 436-1990.

LCF Honors Entire Lincoln Community with 2021 Charity Award at Recognition Event At its annual Donor Recognition Event on May 6, the Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF) did things a little differently this year and awarded the prestigious 2021 Charity Award to the entire Lincoln community rather than an individual or single organization! The 2021 award honors donors, nonprofits, funders, and partners for coming together as one community during the most challenging of times. In 2020, a record-setting $21.1 million was granted to 1,184 nonprofit organizations and $2.2 million was distributed for programs including CARES Act funding for those who needed support more than ever. The community raised a record $7 million for 448 nonprofits on Give to Lincoln Day and an additional $1.2 million for the COVID-19 Response Fund, which was distributed to 66 local nonprofits on the frontlines of the pandemic.

“The year 2020 is one we will never forget, especially because of the generosity of our community,” said LCF President Barbara Bartle.

“You can see that in the record-breaking numbers of gifts, but you can especially feel it in the spirit of our city. There are so many stories of neighbors coming together during uncertain times to take care of each other. You volunteered, made masks, started community conversations, bought local, and donated to provide basic needs with our goods and our philanthropic dollars. For this, we are honored to present the 2021 Charity Award to the entire Lincoln community.”

Established in 1955, the Lincoln Community Foundation strives to continually enrich the Lincoln community by promoting and achieving perpetual philanthropic support. For more information or to donate to the Foundation, visit lcf.org or call (402) 474-2345. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

The 20th Annual CBMC Lincoln Golf Classic and luncheon is set for Monday, July 26 at Wilderness Ridge Golf Course. Each year, this tournament attracts more than 100 golfers, who enjoy golfing at one of Nebraska’s premier, private courses, while also supporting the ministry of CBMC Lincoln. This event also features a luncheon and guest speaker, silent auction, and multiple prizes. A limited number of luncheon-only tickets also are available.

This year’s event will be a special celebration of 20 consecutive years of the Golf Classic. It has consistently been described by participants as one of the best golf events they attend. Last year’s event filled to capacity, and they expect it to sell out again this year, so sign up soon!

Early registration for a team or individual price is discounted through July 6. Sponsorships of various levels are available to businesses and individuals to help impact the Lincoln community by supporting the ministry of CBMC. Sponsors also receive visibility for their business and excellent exposure as a supporter of the event and the community.

CBMC Lincoln is part of a global ministry that encourages men toward spiritual development, personal integrity, principled leadership, and a desire to impact others. For further information, connect with them on Facebook (@cbmclincolnne), visit Lincoln.cbmc. com, or call (402) 540-1093. For more info about the Golf Classic, to register, become a sponsor, or to donate a raffle or silent auction item, go to Lincoln.cbmc.com/golf-classic.

Habitat Restore Lincoln Hosts Fifth Annual Scrub Day for Donation of Household Items Habitat ReStore Lincoln will host its Fifth Annual Citywide Scrub Day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 22, to collect your unwanted household items of building materials to support Habitat for Humanity Lincoln’s ReStores. It’s never been easier—or more fun—to do your spring cleaning and donate your extra items to ReStore for repurposing that supports a good cause! Find a full list of items you can donate at lincolnhabitatrestore.org.

Sponsored by the Nebraska Environmental Trust, Scrub Day includes two convenient locations to make drop-offs free of charge: Habitat Restore (47th and Y Streets) or 56th and Highway 2, south of Super Center in the Edgewood Shopping Center. Or you can schedule an at-home pick-up throughout the week by calling (402) 464-0010.

“Scrub Day is a great way for community members to support ReStore,” said Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln Operations Director Jeremy Trujillo.

“When you donate and shop at ReStore, you support local business and help Habitat Lincoln continue building homes, community, and hope.”

Habitat ReStore Lincoln is a home improvement store and donation center that sells new and gently used building materials, appliances, furniture, cabinets, and more at a fraction of the retail price. Shoppers can find great values on items for home improvements, remodels, reuse, recycle, and repurpose. All donated items are 100% tax deductible.

Profits from ReStore help fund the mission Habitat for Humanity Lincoln, which provides decent and affordable housing for families in need of shelter in Lancaster and Seward counties. Donations not only help the ReStore support Habitat for Humanity locally through sales, but they keep items that are in good condition from ending up in our landfills. For more information about Habitat for Humanity Lincoln, visit lincolnhabitat.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Goodwill’s Rising Together Coalition to Empower 1 Million People into Careers

Domesti-PUPS Sells Corporate Tables to 9th Annual Party in the Garden September 10

Goodwill, the leading workforce provider in North America, announced the launch of the first-of-its-kind Rising Together™ coalition, which will work to create an equitable economic recovery and provide job seekers with the skills and supports needed to access sustainable jobs. Joining Goodwill with a goal of empowering 1 million people to access sustainable careers by 2025 are Fortune 50 companies and global philanthropic and business leaders, including the Anthem Foundation, Coursera, Google, Indeed, and Lyft. Together, Goodwill and its partners are providing resources to address the widening skills gap and the negative impact of the economic downturn brought on by the pandemic. The Rising Together™ coalition will provide a combination of holistic workforce services and supports and will build and expand on programs that address the most prevalent inequities and systemic barriers facing workers in our society.

Goodwill is embedded in every community across North America, and more than 24 million people receive support from the nonprofit annually.

This in-person and virtual career support includes job training, mentoring, career fairs, classes, and job placement, as well as access to other assistance, such as childcare and transportation. The Goodwill brand has a nearly 120-year history and can provide what is needed in times of economic crises, recession, and moments of social distress. To view Goodwill and the coalition’s commitment to an equitable recovery and to hear from the coalition’s executives, visit Goodwill.org/Rising-Together.

For more information about Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, visit lincolngoodwill.org or call (402) 477-0436.

It's time to get your tickets or corporate table to the 9th Annual Party in the Garden, hosted by Strictly Business Annual (9200 Holdrege St.) to benefit DomestiPUPS, on Friday, September 10, 5:30–9 p.m. Attendees will enjoy food donated by local vendors, a vodka bar sponsored by Ben Bleicher's PRG of Woods Bros Realty, beer and cider provided by Kinkaider Brewing Co. and Sideshow Spirits, wine donated

by Whispering Winds Vineyards and James Arthur Vineyards, a live and silent auction, the chance to have some gardening fun with Earl May, and live music throughout the evening, all in a beautiful outdoor setting. All of this for only $40 (individual tickets)! There is also the opportunity to purchase a table for your company and become a corporate sponsor of this event. Sponsorship tables: 10-tops (Gold Sponsor - $1,500), 8-tops (Silver Sponsor - $1,000), and 6-tops (Bronze Sponsor - $500).

Awesome promotional benefits are included with each sponsorship level.

Domesti-PUPS is a local nonprofit that provides therapy dogs, service dogs for persons with disabilities, and trained rescue dogs. Tickets to Party in the Garden are available online at domesti-pups.org. If you have questions about table sponsor benefits or donating food and auction items to this event, please contact Michelle at (402) 465-4201 / info@domesti-pups.org.

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You or someone you know may have a problem with gambling.

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The Nebraska Gamblers Assistance Program (GAP) pays for confidential counseling with certified problem gambling providers to Nebraskans and their families who suffer a gambling addiction.

A list of all GAP-certified counselors in Nebraska is located at

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Nebraska 24/7 Helpline—Call 1-833-238-6837 National/Nebraska 24/7 Helpline— 1-800-522-4700

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9thParty in the Garden

Benefitting Domesti-PUPS

Catholic Social Services Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary of St. Gianna Women’s Homes May 2021 marked Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska’s 10th anniversary of providing long-term support and housing at St. Gianna Women's Homes for survivors of domestic violence and other abuse and control.

Staffed by the Marian Sisters, this residential complex in Lincoln comprises 24 apartment units, including six onebedroom units, 12 two-bedroom units, and six three-bedroom units. These fully-furnished apartments fill the need to give women and their children time and support before transitioning into permanent housing. St. Gianna's also offers a range of other services to residents, including education, employment services, and counseling.

Each family is provided a safe and secure environment to cope with the trauma caused by abuse, become financially self-sufficient, and learn how to develop healthy relationships in the future.

Whether they stay at St. Gianna's for three months or three years, Catholic Social Services clients must often overcome great challenges as they begin to heal from the trauma of their abuse—physically, mentally, emotionally, financially, and spiritually. Barriers may include homelessness, poverty, unemployment, PTSD, anxiety, addiction, or no social support system. Indeed, the road to recovery is difficult, but survivors are incredibly resilient, and the majority of St. Gianna’s clients successfully complete the program after receiving the support needed to become independent.

In addition to St. Gianna Women’s Homes, Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska provides food pantry services, emergency services including rent and utility assistance, disaster relief, refugee and immigration services, and a clinical and family counseling program throughout Nebraska, regardless of faith. For more information about St. Gianna Women’s Homes or other services, visit csshope.org or call (402) 474-1600. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

HEALTH NEWS Heart Association Highlights Unique Risks Women Face for High Blood Pressure, Stroke

Home Care Partners, Nebraska LTC Pharmacy Create Dementia Workshops for Community

The American Heart Association is putting increased emphasis on women’s health this summer, including education efforts to teach women about the unique risks they face for high blood pressure and stroke. Women have a lot on their plates, and sometimes important self-care can take a back seat to work, family, and other obligations. In fact, nearly 50% of adult women have high blood pressure, and nearly three-quarters of those with high blood pressure don’t have it under control. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can significantly increase a woman’s risk for a stroke, but a few important steps can help reduce that risk and give women (and their loved ones) one less thing to worry about.

Fortunately, 80% of strokes may be prevented and lowering high blood pressures reduces stroke risk. Women can measure their blood pressure at home regularly and let their doctors know if it’s normally above 120/80. In addition, lifestyle adjustments such as getting enough exercise, eating healthfully, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking can go a long way to reduce women’s disease risk from high blood pressure.

The American Heart Association and its American Stroke Association division represent a relentless force for a world with fewer strokes and longer, healthier lives. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-888-4STROKE or visit stroke.org. For more information and tips about women’s health and stroke prevention at all stages of life, visit GoRedForWomen.org/Risk.

Karla Frese, managing partner of Home Care Partners, is excited to announce a collaboration with Gayleen Bradley of Nebraska LTC Pharmacy to offer dementia workshops to the Lincoln community. “A Day in the Life, a Dementia Simulation Experience” is a free workshop experience available to the public, upon request, to improve and increase dementia education with a focus on improving care. This workshop addresses communication, caring for those aging with sensory deficits, and cognitive impairment through a simulation.

The simulation uses exaggerated impairment to help us understand the verbal, physical, and mental challenges of those that caregivers serve, and how to adjust and adapt our healthcare approach when caring for patients with dementia.

“A Day in the Life” is highly valuable experience for those who are formal or informal caregivers, family members, healthcare organizations, support groups, local businesses that serve seniors, community groups, and houses of worship.

Home Care Partners delivers an affordable and comparable alternative to independent and assisted-living options, and additional support when needed for those already in a senior community. For more information, visit homecarepartnersofnebraska.com and follow them on Facebook (@ homecarepartnersofnebraska) and Instagram (@homecarepartners).

If you would like to attend a “Day in the Life” workshop or provide it to a group that would benefit from the experience, call Home Care Partners at (402) 780-1211 to get it scheduled today!

Star City Dental Offers PRF Treatments for Natural Skin, Hair Rejuvenation, Recovery Star City Dental, a division of CARE Esthetics, is now offering Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) treatments.

This technology uses your body’s own natural and powerful healing proteins and concentrated growth hormones found within your blood to rejuvenate skin, and help with wound healing. With a simple blood draw, a concentration of natural growth factors in your own blood is collected and used to stimulate and treat your skin. The protocols established to produce PRF in its most concentrated format (C-PRF) were actually developed by lead researchers at CARE Esthetics.

Platelet Rich Fibrin treatments have been shown to be three times more effective than Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), a first-generation platelet concentrate. PRF involves no artificial components in providing 100% natural facial rejuvenation, including eliminating forehead wrinkles and eyebrow furrows, filling in smokers’ lines, softening marionette lines, and plumping lips—all to provide a natural enhancement for a beautiful smile!

Star City Dental is located off of 84th and Pioneers Blvd. They provide family, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. They make your healthy smile their top priority by listening to your needs and concerns, and they use gentle, efficient cleaning techniques.

You can expect to be taken care of by highly trained professionals.

To learn more about Star City Dental, visit starcitydentalne.com.

For more information about Platelet Rich Fibrin or to book a free consultation with Dr. Meghan by calling (402) 489 7806. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

ACCESS TO YOU.

ALL THE TIME.

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

Krystal Jackson, PA-C Reduced, flat-rate plans available for businesses!

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

Stop by our location in Legacy Square today!

8101 O St., Suite 302 • AccessFamilyMedicine.com • 402-858-1510

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HEALTH NEWS Tabitha Offers Tips for Healthy Eating for Elderly to Get their Plates in Shape

The Bridge Offers Drive Kits to Help You or Your Organization Donate Necessities

There is a lot of information out there about proper nutrition, making it difficult for people keep track of what a healthy diet entails, so Tabitha recently offered some tips for elderly adults to maintain healthy eating habits. These tips are crucial because malnutrition in older adults can lead to various health concerns, including emphysema, arthritis, Parkinson's disease, stroke, cancer, an overactive thyroid and urinary or respiratory infections. Weakened muscles and decreased bone mass caused by lack of protein and calcium can increase chances of falls and fractures. Those with poor nutrition also have a higher risk of hospitalization and an increased risk of post-operative complications and infections. Here are some ways to start getting your “plate in shape:” • Fruits and vegetables – Fill half your plate with these food items.

Think orange, red, green, and purple.

• Switch your milk – Choose skim or 1% milk.

• Whole grains – Make sure half of your grains are 100% whole grains, like whole-wheat flour and pasta, oatmeal, and brown rice.

• Vary your protein choices – Try to choose more lean meats, seafood, eggs, and beans. Salmon is a great source of protein as well as Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A and D. • Use added sugars and salt sparingly.

• Eat a variety of foods and at least three meals a day.

• When using cooking oils, select olive and canola oils.

For more information and aging tips, visit Tabitha.org or call (402) 486-8520.

The Bridge Behavioral Health is making it easier than ever to support their mission by offering Drive Kits so any business, organization, or individual can contribute basic necessities for The Bridge’s clients. The kits include everything you need to host your organization’s drive, including signage, totes for collecting items, and verbiage to share on multiple platforms. They drop off the materials at your location of choice and come back and pick them up when your donation is ready to go.

Examples of needs include personal care items/the basics, welcome bags, summer wear, art supplies, and cash donations. The Bridge also will also provide input for any custom drive that would be of interest to your organization. At The Bridge Behavioral Health, most clients arrive with very little to their names—many times just the clothing on their backs. Whether they are going in for withdrawal or residential treatment, basic necessities are a constant need throughout their stay.

The Bridge Behavioral Health has served as an essential part of the Lincoln community’s safety net since 1984, connecting people suffering from addiction and related mental-health issues with support and treatment. The Bridge provides caring substance use, trauma, and mental-health treatment services. If your organization is interested in more information or hosting a drive, please contact Brianna Georgeson at bgeorgeson@thebridgenebraska.org or (402) 477-3951.

Now Offering an All Natural Alternative to Botox!

Meghan Hungerford, DDS

NO CHEMICALS. NO FILLERS. ALL NATURAL REGENERATIVE SCIENCE.

What is Platelet Rich Fibrin?

PRF is a technology that uses your body’s own natural and powerful healing proteins. It encourages the production of collagen, treats, acne scaring, rejuvenates skin, stimulates hair growth, removes fine wrinkles, and tightens loose skin.

All within the power of a simple blood draw.

Family Dentistry • Restorative Dentistry Cosmetic Dentistry • Emergency Dentistry 4525 S. 86th Street, Ste. A | Lincoln, NE 68526 starcitydentalne.com | (402) 489-7806 50

Strictly Business JUNE 2021

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HEALTH NEWS Red Cross Sound the Alarm Program Focuses on Preparing Families for Home Fires In the middle of their Sound the Alarm campaign to heighten awareness about fire safety in homes, volunteers for the American Red Cross found themselves tending to the needs of residents affected by nine single-home fires in Nebraska during just the first weekend in May. The busy weekend of helping households recover from the fires sounded the alarm, indeed, about the need for fire-safety education in the state. Through its Sound the Alarm campaign, the American Red Cross is employing targeted outreach with community partners to connect— mostly virtually—with families to provide education about fire safety.

For starters, the Red Cross finds that most people don’t realize that they have just two minutes to escape a home fire. The Red Cross recommends that families take two simple steps to be safe: create an escape plan and regularly test smoke alarms. Escape plans should include two ways out of each room of the home to outside. Plans should also include a meeting point that is a safe distance from the home. Smoke alarms should be located on each level of your home and tested by pressing the test button. If you hear three beeps, the alarm is working. If not, it is time to change the batteries. If your smoke alarm is more than 10 years old, it is time to get a new alarm, and if you do not have working smoke alarms currently installed, request free smoke alarms and installation via redcross.org/smokealarmNE. For more information about the Red Cross’s fire safety program, visit redcross.org/sound-the-alarm or follow on Facebook and Twitter (@NEIARedCross).

Integrated Medical Rehabilitation Physical Therapists for All Your Needs Proud to Support Our Local Athletes. Stay Strong and Go for the Gold.

Otoe 402-873-5151 Nebraska City

HuskerRehab.com

Tobacco Free Lancaster County Announces UBT as 2021 Tobacco-Free Business Champion Tobacco Free Lancaster County (TLFC) is proud to announce that Union Bank & Trust (UBT) is their 2021 Tobacco-Free Business Champion. UBT has promoted a healthier, smoke-free workplace since 2005 and has continued to expand and improve their policy to provide a safe, positive environment that is free from exposure to any tobacco products, including e-cigarettes. UBT believes that having a tobacco-free workplace is one step in making sure all employees, guests, and vendors have the potential to live their best lives. Recognizing the challenges of nicotine addiction, the family-minded culture of UBT supports positive progress toward being tobacco-free, no matter how big or small.

From financial support for resources to emotional support cheering on those trying to quit, UBT wants their people to be both personally and professionally happy and healthy.

Businesses that have strong tobacco-free policies, which include cessation support for their employees, are one of the best ways to reduce tobacco use in our community. TFLC thanks Union Bank & Trust for doing their part to make Lincoln and Lancaster County a healthier, tobacco-free community!

Funding for Tobacco Free Lancaster Country is provided by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services/Tobacco Free Nebraska Program as a result of the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement. If you are ready to quit tobacco, call 1-(800) QUIT-NOW for free confidential help getting started. For more information about implementing or improving a tobacco-free policy at your business, contact Sophia Yelkin at (402) 441-4108 or syelkin@lincoln.ne.gov. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Let’s Bring You Home Over 50 years of real estate experience!

BEN BLEICHER - REALTOR® & TEAM LEAD of Professional Realty Group of Woods Bros Realty PRG is a team of experienced real estate professionals, who together form a powerhouse in the local real estate industry. Collectively, Ben and his team specialize in residential, commercial, industrial, land, and new

"Ben was fantastic to work with in selling my home and buying my new home.

Personable, professional, and made sure my experience was seamless! I recommend him to all I know! He is amazing to work with and takes care of his client." - Corey L.

construction in and around the Lincoln area.

The PRG team consists of Ben and Andrea Bleicher, Kim Erickson, Zach Brandl, Mark Salak and Alyssa Kaufhold, bringing over 50 years of combined real estate experience. Ben and Andrea are constantly in pursuit of knowledge and connections that would benefit their clients and their industry.

PRG-NE.COM PROFESSIONAL REALTY GROUP (PRG) of Woods Bros Realty Lots can be difficult to find in Lincoln when it comes to building a custom home. PRG partners with multiple builders, and many fine developments in and around the Lincoln area. These connections make working with PRG a successful venture when it comes to cultivating ideas and incorporating them into your custom builds.

Call Ben at (402) 419-6309 for all your buying/selling needs.

Go online to PRG-NE.com to check out all available listings!

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STRICTLY BUSINESS UPCOMING EVENTS Last Month Recap We had a couple fun events in May! For Friends4Lunch, we returned to Tipsy Tina's Taco Cantina on May 6.

You could say we kept the Cinco de Mayo spirit alive with some street tacos and margaritas! Everyone had the chance to go around and introduce themselves and their business. It was great to see some new faces.

Our Friends4Drinks event was hosted at the From Nebraska Gift Shop in the Haymarket where you can find the James Arthur Vineyards tasting room—it was the first time we hosted a networking event at this venue! Attendees enjoyed the award-winning wines and ciders. Many took some time to walk around the store to ogle over products from Nebraska's finest producers and crafters.

gift yourself some love!

Swedish • Deep Tissue • Prenatal • Reflexology • Sugar / Salt Scrubs • Heated Bamboo • Vibration Therapy • Hot Stone • & More!

self care isn’t selfish! when was the last time you got a massage?

6201 S 58th St., STE A | Lincoln, NE 5elementsne.com | (402) 617-7992 Friends4Lunch at Asian Taste Thai Restaurant on June 8, 11:30 a.m.

Please join us at our newest restaurant client's establishment, Asian Taste Thai Restaurant, located on 501 W A St., STE 102.

Asian Taste has a wide variety of oriental cuisine favorites. Select from a sushi rolls, curry, tempura, chicken wings, fired meatballs, fish cakes, fried rice, stir fry, noodle dishes, hibachi, and much more. If you enjoy authentic Thai food, you will not want to miss this event.

Asian Taste also has an online ordering option for those who cannot dine at the restaurant.

Friends4Drinks at The Kindler on June 24 at 4 p.m.

We're looking forward to a beautiful time at The Kindler, Lincoln's only luxury boutique hotel downtown, for our Friends4Drinks networking event this month on Thursday, June 24. Stop by anytime after 4 p.m. The Kindler's Boitano’s Lounge features premium outdoor seating where we can enjoy cocktails and appetizers. The seasonally changing menu is developed

by Brian Boitano, the world-renowned Olympic skater and Food Network star. The lounge has a fresh and sophisticated vibe. This will be a wonderful time to make new connections with other local business professionals. Don't hesitate to bring a friend along with you!

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

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Offering Solutions for the

Built Environment

For over 20 years in Lincoln, AOI has offered solutions for the built environment through their construction, furniture, and pre“Casey Borer and AOI’s Service team go the extra manufactured construction groups. Products and services are mile. Quality work and dependability are what sets available individually or combined as part of a holistic approach them apart from the rest.” - Shane Neemann developed in close collaboration with their clients and design teams.

Local leadership includes Christine Hill, President; Mike Fritzinger, VP of Construction; Becky Costello, VP of Furniture Sales; Mick Jensen, VP of Pre-manufactured Interior Solutions; Patrick Jensen, VP of Marketing and Business Development; and Penny Johnston, General Manager. While AOI has over 100 employees today, the company was started with a nothing more than a backyard dream of a gazebo, three friends, an orange van, and a kitchen table. These humble roots remain evident in the company's dedication to creating "win-win" relationships. By checking egos at the door and committing to shared goals, everyone benefits. AOI also prides themselves on their ability to bring order to chaos through effective communication. It’s what makes true collaboration with their colleagues and clients possible.

They create streamlined processes and maintain open lines of communication to keep information flowing and eliminate misunderstandings. This approach guided the company through the challenges of COVID. The pandemic taught people the importance of adaptability and flexibility into designs from the outset. Doing anything less leaves organizations flatfooted and struggling to adapt or spending large sums to react when it does.

Changes in technology, workflow, regulations, staffing, and disasters all highlight the need for environments to flex and adapt to meet current needs.

The pre-manufactured interior solutions such as DIRTT and new Herman Miller furnishings sold by AOI are really focused on this and will be important elements in creating those dynamic environments over the next several years.

Upholding Values Remains The Highest Achievement

Top left to bottom right: Fred Gartner, Penny Johnston, Casey Borer, Jill Sinica, Ricky Delancey, Megan Rossman

Everyone focuses on the difficulty in managing through the hard times, but it can be equally challenging to manage a business when business is booming. Managing what you take on as you stretch and grow is so important in protecting your responsiveness and the level of service you deliver. It’s also important from a cultural integrity and continuity perspective. Every few years, AOI leadership brings in different people from throughout their organization—some only a few years in—and asks them “Why AOI? What is it that differentiates us from the rest?” Every time, they end up reiterating some version of the principles the company was founded on more than 35 years ago. In their eyes, that’s the highest achievement they can hit because it means they aren’t losing who they are as they continue to grow, adapt, change, and add to the mix along the way.

“AOI helped us design and set up all of our furniture at our new office location and we couldn’t be happier with it!

Between the amazing help they provided in figuring out our office layout, the color coordination between the furniture and wall/trim, and the quick and easy install date and follow up, they we’re fantastic to work with. I highly recommend them to anyone looking to use sturdy reliable furniture that gives their office a modern look.” -Addison Collingsworth

Committed to Lincoln and Beyond When AOI expanded from Omaha into Lincoln, they fell in love with the community and the people they met. The company is proud to be involved with Lincoln Downtown Rotary 14, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development, and PNG Lincoln.

402.476.0055 | aoicorp.com 54

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DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION

by Todd Ogden, President

(402) 434-6900 • www.downtownlincoln.org

Movement Academy: New Gym Community in the Haymarket Rob Kuhlman is all about creating what he calls a “frictionless experience” at the Haymarket’s new, locally-owned gym, Movement Academy.

Located at 115 Canopy St. in the south Olsson Building, Movement Academy is decked out with floor-to-ceiling windows, state-of-the-art equipment, and a signup system that’s as easy as downloading an app and paying the monthly membership—there are no sign-up fees.

For Kuhlman, gym life is all he’s ever known. Starting his own gym has been a long-term dream after many years of experience at larger chains like Equinox (he was one of 45 trainers at the high-end, Manhattan fitness center) and Genesis Health Club (where he served as the Lincoln District Fitness Manager for several years). He’s been able to fine-tune his idea of the perfect gym experience over the years, and a passionate curiosity has led him to attend the National Personal Training Institute in Orlando as well as gain certifications in specialties from kettlebells, to pre and postnatal, to something called “Animal Flow” (you’ll have to use your imagination, there.)

“It is an extremely rewarding profession because I know that I have information, and my staff has information, that people just don't know automatically,” Kuhlamn said. “And also motivation. When you see someone succeed and see someone hit the goals that they didn't think they could themselves until they actually had a conversation with you. It's really nice to be able to help people in that way, and the best way I know how is through fitness.”

Kuhlman began the process of opening Movement Academy only a few months before COVID shut down gyms around the world.

“At that point, I wasn’t going back,” he said.

Kuhlman persisted through construction setbacks due to the pandemic, and officially opened in January 2021. He’s confident he’ll see an uptick in memberships once people are back working in Haymarket offices.

“There’s a need for us down here,” he said. “As for Haymarket and Downtown, I’m the only option for a full-fledged gym.”

Movement Academy offers just about any weight training or cardio equipment you might need, as well as various group fitness classes throughout the day that are included with every membership. Most of Movement Academy’s equipment is from Techno Gym, a high-tech brand that is the main supplier of the Olympics.

At the end of the day, Kuhlman believes in the power of the gym community.

“Motivation is harder to come by on your own,” he said. “And really, it's just fun to be around people. We're social beings, and we need to have that community. And I want to be a part of that community. I live in the Haymarket, and the ability to help enhance the community of the Haymarket, it's kind of fun. I like knowing everybody's names when they walk in here.”

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

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Annual 9thParty in the

Garden

Benefitting Domesti-PUPS

Save the Date Friday, September 10, 2021 5:30 - 9:00 p.m.

9200 Holdrege St., Lincoln, NE 68505

Food Vendors | Vodka Bar | Beer & Cider On Tap | Local Wines | Herb-Inspired Cocktails | Live & Silent Auction | Live Music & Entertainment All of this for only $40 (individual tickets; $50 after August 1)!

There is also the opportunity to purchase a table for your company and become a corporate sponsor of this event.

Domesti-PUPS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Lincoln providing therapy dogs, service dogs for persons with disabilities, and trained rescue dogs.

Domesti-PUPS mission is to improve the quality of life for persons with special needs through the assistance of animals, and to promote awareness through education.

TICKETS & TABLES CAN BE RESERVED AT DOMESTI-PUPS.ORG HANNAH - (402) 466-3330 | EDITOR@STRICTLYBUSINESSOMAHA.COM MICHELLE - (402) 465-4201 | INFO@DOMESTI-PUPS.ORG

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

ALLO RANKED #1 FASTEST INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER IN THE MIDWEST Based on more than THREE MILLION speed test results, HighSpeedInternet.com recognized ALLO as the fastest internet service provider in the Midwest! ALLO’s growth and success over the past decade are thanks in large part to their reputation for winning customer service, technical capabilities, experienced, knowledgeable personnel, and superior products. Since 2003, ALLO has provided customers with the most modern network possible while employing a team of engineers, operators, and technical experts who constantly work with customers to develop creative ways to utilize ALLO’s fiber network.

ALLO Communications is a telecommunications company offering fiber telephone, long distance, internet, and television to residents and businesses.

ALLO currently provides communications services to 16 cities across Nebraska and Colorado totaling approximately 471,000 in population.

ALLO has developed a world-class network to expand business opportunities, create jobs, and improve quality of life. At ALLO, they take great pride in providing residents and businesses with unmatched entertainment and communications options.

Customer-first Mindset ALLO considers their customers to be neighbors and friends, not just numbers.

Because they believe in valuing their neighbors and friends, they've earned a special reputation in their "fiberhoods".

You might consider ALLO to be customer-obsessed. Every process update, every feature upgrade, every email, every maintenance window, every system update, literally any meeting they attend begins with the number one question, “How does this serve our customers?”

Faster internet is great, but the real ALLO difference is their customer-first mindset and the desire to improve for YOU, every single day.

"ALLO installed my fiber internet remotely and all calls have been very responsive and professional! I switched from Spectrum...night and day difference across the board! Employees are always professional, the quality is amazing, and I am paying LESS than what I did with Spectrum for BETTER internet!" - Emma L.

"We love the fast, reliable internet service! I started working from home two years ago and we have not had any problems with the internet going out. We also have the TV service which we have been happy with. Any time we have had an issue or question, it has been resolved quickly and when you call, it is someone local, and they stay on the line to make sure everything is fixed. Thank you ALLO!" - Colette E.

"If you are considering the switch, I can highly recommend ALLO. I switched from Spectrum and will never go back. There is no promotional price that falls off after the first year, no over-promised timelines, and always excellent and friendly customer service. From the first call to install, ALLO always clearly communicated with me about where we were in the process. The installation was quick and simple. The installer even took his shoes on and off and closed the door every time he came in and out of the house. The internet service has been stellar with zero issues, and the basic cable package has got us about anything we would want to watch." - Zach L.

Residential: 866-481-2556 |Business: 844-560-2556 | www.allocommunications.com 56

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LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

by Wendy Birdsall, President

(402) 436-2350 • www.lcoc.com

Revisiting and Reconnecting to Lincoln As we continue to navigate a hopefully smooth and gradual return to normal in our daily lives, it remains a great time to be in Lincoln and will continue to get even better in the days, weeks, months, and years ahead.

It all starts with the people in Lincoln—our greatest resource—but what else makes Lincoln such an inviting community that continues to evolve and adapt to changing environments and workplaces? We know we have a recipe for success and hope we can show newcomers and those familiar with Lincoln that it is a city to rediscover.

In partnership with the University of Nebraska Alumni Association, the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development is reaching out to those that have left Lincoln, in the hopes of recruiting them back to Lincoln to work, live, and play in the city they once called home.

As workplaces continue to change and evolve with technology, Lincoln has positioned itself as a top city for remote workers, recently ranked as the seventh-best city in the country according to Ownerly. In the heart of the “Silicon Prairie”, Lincoln is the place to be connected as a Gig City, offering some of the fastest internet speeds in the country thanks to our world-class fiber network.

The campaign targets UNL graduates ages 25-40 living in major metropolitan areas across the country that may be considering returning to Lincoln as we continue to offer an engaged and vibrant city, a family-friendly community with great schools, and a place to call home for a good price. With remote workers finding more mobility and freedom to pick their locations, Lincoln can take advantage of the opportunity to attract these workers in a growing section of the 21st century workplace.

It is also important to keep college students in Lincoln postgraduation, helping them gain an appreciation for the quality of life our city has to offer. Back for its fifth year, LPED is happy to introduce MyTern 2021, scheduled to take place in the late spring and summer months. The MyTern program shows interns at area companies how life in Lincoln could look for them if they decide to start their careers here by showcasing Lincoln as not only a great place to work, but a great place to live and play in as well.

Resolve Your Pest Problems Quickly & Effectively • Commercial & Residential • EPA-Approved Methods • Fully Licensed & Insured • Results 100% Guaranteed!

Environmentally Safe & Responsible Locally Owned & Operated • For a FREE estimate, call today!

Arrow Pest Control Protecting Health and Property

402-435-3747

www.ArrowPestNeb.com

Count on us for EVERY Season COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES “TOTAL GROUNDS CARE”

snow removal, lawn care & so much more

1776 MAINTENANCE GROUNDS

OVER 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE CALL TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE!

REVOLUTIONARY SERVICE

402-217-2314

www.1776gm.com

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL WINDOW TINTING

SAFETY & SECURITY FILMS

Protecting people and property, providing additional time to escape dangerous situations and conditions.

The events for MyTern 2021 will be both in-person and online with the kickoff event set for June 16, MyWeek from July 12-16 and the closing event set for July 27. Networking through engaging opportunities and connecting interns with one another continues to be a success for our local companies, providing a valuable benefit for their interns and future employees.

Opportunity abounds to help business continue to thrive in Lincoln as we return to normal. The attraction of talented workers helps our existing local companies find the best employees to fill open positions while also providing the necessary backdrop for the innovation and creation that helps new companies take flight.

Our community is rich in the people, resources, and opportunities that help make Lincoln a sought-after destination, especially in 2021.

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

“Wonderful experience! My windows look brand new with the new tint! Everyone was friendly. I would highly recommend these guys for all your tint needs!”

- Rose M.

LOOKING TO HAVE YOUR COMMERCIAL OR RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY PROFESSIONALLY TINTED? GIVE US A CALL!

WWW.PRO-TINT.NET

402.474.1234

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Who to Call When You Need Emergency Plumbing, Heating, and AC Service!

All homeowners have a fear of having to deal with an emergency plumbing, heating, or AC issue— especially when temperatures are extreme and it's the middle of the night. This is why John Henry's Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning created services specifically for these situations. At John Henry’s, they're available 24/7 and always arrive quickly and ready to work. With fully stocked trucks, experienced technicians, and a full range of services, they can help you with anything ranging from plumbing to heating service.

“No matter the time, day or night, you can trust John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning for all your emergency home needs.“

What’s Considered an Emergency Service?

An emergency service is generally considered a situation that is directly affecting your home or your comfort. Some of the more common reasons include: BURST PIPES & WATER LEAKS: Anytime water is leaking from your plumbing system—it’s an immediate cause for concern. Water damage is extremely costly and can lead to a loss of your belongings along with health risks like mold and mildew. The moment you notice any water leak in your home call for immediate help.

AIR CONDITIONER WON’T TURN ON: Coming home in the middle of summer to realize your air conditioner isn't turning on is a nightmare. Not only will it leave you uncomfortable but also it can be a health hazard. Whether your air conditioner is too old or requires electrical work, John Henry's technicians can help.

HEATING SYSTEM IS BLOWING COLD: Living in Lincoln means having a quality heating system to keep you comfortable. If your heater or furnace is blowing cold air, you need fast service.

When temperatures reach freezing levels you want fast repairs that’ll get your system back up and running.

Always call John Henry’s for reliable emergency services. As a family owned and operated company, it’s always their goal to help customers in their time of need. That’s why they go above and beyond to make their emergency heating, plumbing, and AC services the best in Lincoln. In addition to 24/7 availability, other perks of working with John Henry's include: • 20+ Years of Experience—Experience matters and John Henry's has been serving homeowners in and around the Lincoln area for over 20 years. In that time we’ve learned the best way to effectively solve your emergency needs so you can focus on staying comfortable and safe in your home.

• Flat-Rate Pricing—A major concern for emergency services is the cost. That’s why John Henry's always offer flat-rate pricing on all their work and keep your budget in mind so you can enjoy stress-free repairs that won’t break the bank.

• Personalized Solutions—You’re always going to want quality services that are tailored to you. At John Henry’s, they understand that every home is different, which is why they offer personalized solutions for all your home needs.

Looking for reliable and affordable emergency repairs in your Lincoln home? Call John Henry’s at (402) 435-5555 and get long-lasting emergency heating, AC, and plumbing services today!

"Fast, friendly, on time, professional. They answered all the questions I had before signing, even late-night emails. The install was quick, and they were careful not to damage anything. John Henry's was a pleasure to do business with." - Jim B.

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402-435-5555 | www.jhlincoln.com

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LINCOLN INDEPENDENT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

by Bud Synhorst, President

(402) 466-3419 • www.liba.org

Thinking Differently About Hiring Recently, I was reading an article about the jobs report in America and thinking about the conversations I have been a part of with local business owners. After reading a few articles and based on what I hear in the Lincoln business community, I just had to keep reading more articles to see the various thoughts behind this shortage of workers as we come to the other side of the pandemic.

One publication referred to a “great reassessment” going on in our economy. I found this an interesting description of what is happening within the workforce, and several things resonated with me when thinking about what is happening in Lincoln. In some of the research studies and also in observations offered by different writers, there seems to be a change happening in the minds of those unemployed and underemployed in our country. Additionally, some writers have been combining this change with the increase in remote work opportunities during the pandemic. The workforce as we knew it a year and a half ago, compared to what we are facing, is changing dramatically.

One study from Pew Research Center points out half of the unemployed, furloughed, or temporarily laid off are pessimistic about their future job prospects. A majority of those surveyed (around two-thirds) say they are or have seriously considered changing fields or occupations.

Furthermore, they indicate there has been an increase in experiencing additional emotional and mental health issues. Some participating in the survey indicated they have taken time to reevaluate their skills and seek new educational opportunities to refine their skills for their job search.

Being unemployed has caused greater stress and had more mental health issues for unemployed and laid off workers. The statistics will suggest these problems are happening right here in Lincoln.

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Business owners across sectors have discussed these issues and the inability to find new employees. I have heard from business owners looking for restaurant staff, hotel staff, office staff, etc.

We are all experiencing these issues. Looking ahead, we will have to start rethinking how we retool ourselves as employers to better reach those who are seeking employment and how we can support them in their reentry into the workforce.

To adjust to the world we are living in, we must think differently than we have in the past. I know over the past few months at LIBA, we have worked to find different ways to identify prospective employees as well as finding new ways to go through the interview process. We have worked with a professional human resources consulting company who has helped us to think differently in how we screen candidates. We have worked with this company to take advantage of tools which are helping us see how prospective employees may fit into the culture of our current organization. They have even helped us to evaluate job descriptions, look at how open positions could be combined to maximize the talent of the applicants, and they have helped us to consider how we structure our compensation to better attract new employees to our organization.

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The lesson for me through this process has been, how do we adapt to the world around us and also be willing to take advantage of the resources around us in order to better structure our organization for the future?

I know the struggles business owners are experiencing in identifying and hiring talent. We have experienced these issues. My hope is this information and these ideas will help your business to consider thinking differently than in the past when it comes to seeking out tools to help identify and hire good talent to help the economy of our community.

LIBA studies and promotes these types of issues that are important to businesses and our community. If you have an interest in joining, please call LIBA at (402) 466-3419. LIBA membership is not restricted to just businesses. We also have “individual” memberships for those who want to help influence our local government decisions.

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commercial real estate The COVID pandemic affected nearly every segment of the economy, and Lincoln’s Commercial Real Estate (CRE) industry certainly did not go untouched during the rollercoaster ride of 2020. The retail and office markets took major hits after retail lockdowns and the massive move to remote working for a majority of the city’s office-based businesses.

The downtown area was hit maybe the hardest, as consumers and office workers worked from home, college students took classes online, and COVID led to mandated shutdowns. By the end of 2020, the retail vacancy rate reached 7.1%, up from 6.6% year-on-year, and the office vacancy rate reached 9.6%, up from 8.3% year-on-year.

At the same time, however, the industrial CRE sector thrived, driven in great part for increased demand for warehouse space for online companies creating delivery hubs.

Renewed Life Nearing the halfway mark of 2021, however, the Commercial Real Estate market is showing signs of renewed life, as uncertainty fades, vaccinations are well underway, and equity markets are attractive against low Treasury yields.

“We are seeing quite a bit of activity with smaller businesses and new ventures,” said Guiderock Commercial Realty LLC Broker and Certified Property Manager Cathy Kottwitz. “We’re also seeing more discussion

about space utilization, particularly allocation of shared areas versus private areas.”

Still, rising construction costs are posing a bit of a challenge in getting improvements done in a cost-effective way, and it remains unclear when that might stabilize.

“We hear often from people that they expected a bigger drop in pricing for both leased spaces and properties for sale,” Cathy said. “Lincoln has always been a less-volatile market, though, and for the most part, pricing Cathy Kottwitz has not declined given fairly strong demand.

Since there are a variety of factors that go Guiderock Commercial Realty LLC into decisions about commercial real estate, we help our clients figure out the best path within the current market to get what they need most.”

Guiderock Commercial Realty understands that commercial real estate is an ever-evolving industry. They strive to help you get the most out of your transactions and help you make the best decisions possible about leasing and investing in commercial real estate, with services including representing tenants and buyers, follow-up after every transaction, property management, and other real-estate consulting services.

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“Whether you need brokerage services or other assistance, we can serve as your guide to commercial real estate, keeping you focused on everything else you need to do,” Cathy said.

Highs and Lows Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate Director of Brokerage Services Brett Harris says that office leasing is probably the softest sector in commercial real estate market in Lincoln right now, but the local market overall is fairly strong—in spite of the disruption created by the pandemic.

“The uncertainty of what the office sector’s space needs will be going forward has created a softening in the demand for office space,” Brett said. “Overall, though, quality commercial properties are selling at Brett Harris Greenleaf Commercial good prices, and there are a lot of investors Real Estate on the sidelines looking for acquisition opportunities. The scarcity of available properties is driving prices up and keeping cap rates low.”

In the office sector, many companies have been reluctant to commit to new leases so they are looking for flexibility in their lease terms due to the uncertainty about how the work model might change as a result of the pandemic.

“The trend toward a more remote workforce has been accelerated by COVID, and although there will be some return to normal as this year progresses, many companies will rethink their space requirements,” Brett said. “As lease terms expire over the next several years, it is likely that we’ll see more companies downsizing their footprint and using the space they do have differently.”

Creating flexibility and adapting to change are also the way of the retail real estate marketplace on the downside of the pandemic.

“Everyone has had to adapt to the pandemic,” Brett said. “For retailers and restaurants, there’s been a premium on drive-thru, take out, and delivery services. Those businesses that have adjusted have survived and should be well positioned going forward.”

Construction costs are one of the biggest concerns in the commercial real estate market right now, driven by pent-up demand, low supply and continued skilled labor challenges.

“Commodity prices for supplies like lumber and steel have increased dramatically this year, and it’s unclear when they might stabilize or drop back down,” Brett said. “This trend is making it more challenging for projects to be economically feasible. It will be difficult for the Lincoln market to support the rents necessary for new commercial projects if these conditions don’t change.”

Price Challenges EXIT Realty Professionals in Lincoln is another fabulous real-estate brokerage company in the local marketplace. Operating under a franchise umbrella of EXIT, their partnership yields advantages in the form of tools and resources for agents and clients in meeting the changes in the marketplace today.

“We deal mostly in apartment complexes, and have sold multiple ones over the years,” said EXIT Realty Professionals Broker/Owner Terry Lindstrom. “Things seem to be selling high, because people are betting on interest rates and people raising rents. Meanwhile, strip malls with local businesses are taking a big hit because of Big Box stores that are able to purchase products in bulk, at lower prices than any locally owned business.”

Whatever your real estate needs, EXIT has in-depth market knowledge, a cooperative Terry Lindstrom EXIT Realty Professionals culture, shrewd negotiators, smart marketing, geolocation technology and more to help you get what you need, be it commercial or residential. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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“The EXIT philosophy—all the way up to corporate—is to treat clients and agents like family,” Terry said. “It is about identifying your needs and wants and fulfilling your life dreams.”

Executive Suites HIP Realty offers commercial “executive office suites and virtual office services” that are in high demand and a good fit for times of uncertainty.

HIP leases an office in these suits to a professional—everything from attorneys to stockbrokers to therapists—and then provides shared common areas, like a kitchen and conference room, as well as providing a shared receptionist to answer calls and welcome guests.”

“The demand for these types of facilities is strong,” said Founder and President Michael Holroyd. “It rolls well with the trend that has more people working remotely, especially now. We have options that allow people to work from home but basically lease a receptionist and a professional address for their business, and have a private conference room to meet with a client when the need arises. It’s a perfect fit in COVID times.”

Even with all of the challenges in the current commercial real-estate marketplace, Michael Holroyd super-low interest rates are attractive for HIP Realty companies looking to buy.

“Those rates make it appealing to purchase property,” Michael said. “It’s such a good time to buy, but there’s so much uncertainty that people are apprehensive to jump into something new. It’s a bit of a Catch-22, but I am optimistic about the long term. Once we get kick-started and get the momentum moving forward as an industry, we’ll recover really well.”

With the challenges and volatility of the commercial real estate market in 2021, it’s crucial that you have a broker/agent who knows the Lincoln market well. We recommend contacting the professionals featured here to navigate the journey with you!

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Senior Health The International Council on Active Aging (ICAA) recently gathered 85 independent-living, assisted-living, and memory-care leaders at an ICAA Forum to identify the “optimal community” that blends lifestyles and services that current residents desire with qualityof-life features that future residents will seek. They defined five associated trends for senior living in 2021.

According to McKnight’s Senior Living News, those trends include redefining the meaning of “community” by repositioning a seniorliving community as “an accessible neighborhood within the larger community” to make it easier to expand services to older adults and to open some services and amenities to nonresidents. Second, the Forum findings focused in on the need for expansion of both built and unbuilt environments, including increasing outdoor features like sidewalks, gardens, paths, and recreation, and using moveable walls inside to maintain flexibility, as well as increasing virtual healthcare spaces.

Notably, the third trend they identified is a move to integrate technology through all operations, including providing technologyenabled spaces for staff and residents, both indoors and outdoors.

Wearable technologies like activity trackers, heart-rate monitors, and rooms outfitted with smart utilities, remote monitoring, voiceactivated systems, and more will be crucial for senior-living

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Senior health and wellness have always been priorities for the senior-living industry, but maybe no more so than they have since the advent of COVID-19 into all of our lives. In fact, you would be challenged to find a single senior-living company or community that is operating just as it did before March 2020. As the senior population has received COVID vaccinations and some restrictions have begun to loosen, the definition of the “optimal” senior community also has changed, thanks in part to lessons learned via the pandemic.

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residents in the future. Fourthly, the ICAA foresees increased emphasis on a wellness culture and lifestyle and, lastly, an effort to strengthen workforce quality, growth, retention, and the addition of on-site healthcare opportunities.

Getting to the age where you or your family start talking about senior living can be the start of an emotional ride, for sure.

Feelings of denial or fear are completely normal but making a plan and knowing when to put it into play can help. We talked with senior health and living companies and communities in the Lincoln area that always maintain senior health and wellness as the top priority for their residents or clients, but they also have made some adjustments in the wake of COVID. Planning for the Unplanned It is never a comfortable conversation and often overwhelming and awkward, but for all seniors—and younger adults, for that matter—planning ahead for what you want when your time on earth ends is such a crucial thing to do. Wyuka Funeral Home and Cemetery is there to help decide upon and record both your loved ones and your own end-of-life wishes. Pre-planning can help every individual make an informed and thoughtful decision about their funeral, choosing sentimental things they want included, comparing prices, and helping your family. Wyuka offers a preplanning checklist with all the information you need to start the process, and they will help walk you through the entire process before a catastrophic event can force the issue.

When you or a loved one passes away, your family will be making numerous important decisions, while also grieving. Pre-planning can help your family plan with ease when the time comes. Your family can confidently put a loved one’s plan into action, knowing that these were their wishes. Working with Wyuka to create a plan in advance also leaves your loved one with the peace of mind that their family has been relieved of making burdensome decisions during their time of loss. Once completed, you can rest assured that you and your loved ones’ plans are in the hands of trusted individuals—without forcing anyone to make decisions in a hurried manner. It’s never too soon to get started.

LTC Pharmacy offers some unique free services (including house calls!) for their customers to help keep them healthy, home, and out of the hospital.

“We have a patient care coordinator who will come to your home and gather all of your medications, then the pharmacist will conduct a medication review to ensure the medications do not interact poorly with each other,” said LTC Pharmacy Founder, Owner and Pharmacist Shannon Schultz.

“We will contact any of the doctors involved with your care and convey any concerns to ensure that everyone involved is on the same page. We will put the medications into packaging that is Shannon Schultz extremely easy to use, and we will deliver the medications right to your door. When Nebraska LTC Pharmacy you are taking the right medications at the right time, it will help eliminate unnecessary trips to the hospital and keep you home safe and sound.”

Shannon founded Nebraska LTC Pharmacy in 2011 because she recognized a need in the community for a pharmacy that did more than just count pills and slap labels. She wanted to make a difference. The goal of Nebraska LTC Pharmacy is to continue to offer the “small town” level of customer service while providing the highest level of care for their patients. All it takes is one phone call to the pharmacy and you will notice the difference.

No automated systems, no punching in prescription numbers. Just great personal care. They genuinely want to help you with your medications and help you preserve your independence.

As a locally owned company that provides a wide array of services in the Lincoln and Omaha areas, Nebraska LTC Pharmacy provides individualized patient care that increases

Focus on What You CAN Control Maintaining an appropriate fitness regime—regardless of one’s level of abilities—is crucial to seniors’ long-term health. Right Foot Forward Fitness has extensive experience working with senior health and fitness, and the good news is that it’s almost always something that you can control.

“The pandemic and its ramifications, especially around activities and social distancing and isolation have had a pretty profound impact on all of us,” said Right Foot Forward Fitness Owner Jeff Madsen. “One of the most effective ways to deal with feelings of isolation and loss of control is to focus on things you DO have control over. You can impact your health and fitness profoundly by making small changes to your routine, from both a diet and exercise standpoint.”

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achieve this through in-person or remote training options—or a hybrid approach. They also have videoon-demand offerings that make it easy for anyone to work out at home and get professional results if they are not yet ready to go out to public places, and they focus mainly on people who are 40 years old and older.

Small-Town Customer Service When it comes to prolonging seniors’ ability to remain healthy and in their own homes, one of the most crucial pieces of the puzzle is comprehensive medication management. Nebraska #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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safety and prolongs clients’ independence at home. They strive daily to differentiate themselves from big-box chain stores and pharmacies. That includes the use of free adherence packaging— the SureMed® bubble-packaging system—that has been proven to increase medication adherence up to 90%, helping you achieve your health goals for 2021 and beyond!

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Sharing a laugh with a loved one.

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“We also provide free delivery in the Lincoln or Omaha areas,” Shannon said, “and we will ship medications for clients outside of our delivery areas. We will communicate with your doctors to ensure a safe and effective medication regimen tailor-made for you, and we also provide a variety of other miscellaneous services, like environmentally safe disposal of medications, onsite vaccination/injections, and providing incontinence supplies and nutritional supplements. Here at Nebraska LTC Pharmacy, everything is about YOU!” Person-Centered Care If you or your loved one wants to stay in their home but needs a little help getting around, completing daily tasks, or just needs some companionship to keep them happy and healthy, you have some fabulous choices for care in the Lincoln area. A prime option is Home Care Partners, which provides person-centered home care, which has been there for seniors and their families throughout the roughest moments of the pandemic. With seniors getting vaccinated in big numbers, they are thrilled to see the opportunities for more activities opening up for them.

“The clients that we supported during the pandemic were resilient because of the benefi ts of our person-centered care,” said Co-founder Karla Frese. “Although some of their lifestyles were different during COVID, their mental health was supported with a team that cares for and about them, which gave them compassion, peace of mind, joy, trust, and safety. As more individuals receive the vaccine, we are seeing an increase in the openness to ‘be together.’ Our teams and clients are getting out together and enjoying more activities, entertainment, and experiences.”

Karla Frese Home Care Partners

Home Care Partners has also been receiving increased requests for their home exercise programs, wherein they collaborate with therapy teams to improve clients’ balance, mobility, strength, memory, and cognition. Together, they identify a critical threshold that focuses on fitness, strength, and gait. The Home Care Partners team helps improve function and help keep seniors above the critical threshold where a decline starts to occur. They have also helped chart seniors’ health by incorporating technology into their care plans.

“The importance of technology has proven to be critical,” Karla said. “Electronic charting allows us to see health changes in real-time and react to them immediately. We also utilize this real-time information to communicate with healthcare-continuum professionals and to provide health condition updates to family members. This collaboration and ongoing communication provide a more integrated level of care. When clients' needs are intensive, they need interdisciplinary teams to communicate, ensuring they are receiving the right care at the right time.”

Given that mental health is a crucial part of seniors’ overall health, the pandemic pointed up the importance of adapting communication technologies to keep the elderly connected with their families, in real time—and that’s not something that’s likely to slow, even after the pandemic ends.

“We have increased communication to make sure that the families we support stay connected,” Karla explained. “Our teams provide Facetime, Zoom, computer, tablets, and phone support. We even helped a few clients with their Facebook accounts to stay in

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contact with loved ones. With added human connectivity, we have been able to make sure that our clients know they are safe and continued to live purposeful lives. We want to do the little things for them each and every day to make them smile and give them meaningful moments.”

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If you’re looking for a senior-living community that focuses on providing whole body-and-mind health, be certain to consider Immanuel Communities. Their Thrive by Immanuel program offers comprehensive life enrichment support for Immanuel residents. The approach was created by their senior-living experts and incorporates nine elements of whole-person wellness: music, wellness, connection, faith, recreation, community, creativity, service, and lifelong learning. “ T h r i ve p ro g ra m m i n g h a s b e e n a foundation to resident wellbeing as we responded to a global pandemic,” said Immanuel Vice President Marketing, Sales and Communication Jennifer Knecht.

“Our dedicated employees were able to reimagine our guiding elements to remain focused on overall wellbeing and safety for those we serve. During the last year, we’ve helped residents learn how to use Zoom, FaceTime, Facebook and other social media to connect with Jennifer Knecht their families; we’ve created broadcast Immanuel Communities fitness resources that residents could view from their apartments; and we organized phone clubs, balcony exercises, courtyard concerts, and more.

Plus, our resident portals, or touchscreen devices available at many Immanuel Communities, helped residents stay connected with community employees and services.”

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In non-pandemic times, Immanuel’s state-of-the-art wellness centers include indoor pools, spas, wellness classes, and one-onone training opportunities that help residents achieve goals like managing a chronic condition or getting ready for a trip or special event. Following their vaccination clinics and successful ongoing infection-control practices, residents are excited to see many of these services reopen in limited capacity.

“Spiritual support is another key aspect to life at Immanuel,” Jennifer said. “As a mission-driven, faith-based organization, we’re thrilled to offer onsite pastoral support for residents of all faiths. Whether that’s help after a life-changing event or a supportive hand during uncertain times, our onsite pastors provide phenomenal benefit across our campuses.”

Immanuel residents were among the first retirement living residents in the area to receive the COVID-19 vaccine through onsite clinics. With support from their on-staff medical director, infection-control experts, and comprehensive educational details around the vaccines, they were able to fully educate residents and employees, and the response was tremendous. Residents and employees came together, and Immanuel is proud to say that their vaccination rates are well above national and state averages for senior-living communities.

“The COVID-19 pandemic certainly brought well-due attention to the incredible frontline workers at senior-living communities,” Jennifer said. “In any given year, our employees go above and beyond to support the health and wellbeing of senior residents, and 2020 was no exception. At Immanuel, health, safety, and wellbeing have always been guiding principles. Being faced with a global pandemic only reinforced that focus. And because of our strong financial standing, we are able to place additional resources where they were needed to continue providing for the safety of those we serve.” #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Mind-Body Health Physical and mental wellbeing can be achieved in a variety of ways and typically go hand-in-hand. Legacy Retirement Communities are home to active seniors, and the companies makes available a combination of coordinated and spontaneous social activities to help keep residents’ minds and bodies engaged, happy, and healthy.

Barb Scott Legacy Retirement Communities

“Residents enjoy making exercise a part of their routine by working with our trainers in the fitness centers or joining in on fitness classes,” said Legacy’s Director of Clinical Operations Barb Scott, RN. “When it comes to health needs, residents know they can rely on our nurses that are available 24/7 and, if additional assistance is needed, either short-term or long-term, residents can utilize our Legacy Home Care team to help them with their day-to-day activities, such as bathing, dressing, medication, and more, so residents have more time to spend doing what they like to do.”

To date, 99% of Legacy residents have been vaccinated against COVID-19, so the level of activities is increasing, and the social distancing decreasing. There does remain some fear, however, about the vaccine itself and its efficacy in the older population, so they are still wearing masks, for now. All told, the pandemic really shined the light on retirement living communities, which Legacy turned into a positive thing.

“The attention has allowed us all to tell our story and teach others along the way about the amazing people that call our buildings home and the employees who work here every day,” Barb said.

“While technologies, additional employees, and new health protocols were necessary as a result of the pandemic, we saw the biggest need throughout was human connection. We always have and continue to develop strong company culture through investing in our people, employees, and residents alike.”

The inability to see family did take a toll on seniors’ health, Barb said, but residents are now finally getting the opportunity to see family members and friends face-to-face again.

“Visits are happening!” Barb said. “Family is very important to our residents, and when seeing them was limited or deemed unsafe,” it takes a toll on seniors’ emotional status. We, as an organization, have worked hard to counteract that impact by providing more one-on-one time spent with residents and staff together.”

Care, Comfort, and Cost If you are seeking 24-hour, long-term care for your loved one but don’t need “fancy,” it’s important to focus on the things that matter most. Care, comfort, and cost—those are the three C’s around which Orchard Park Assisted Living’s mission revolves.

Founded by Virgil and Jan Carner, the community is committed to an affordable “health-first” philosophy that emphasizes familiar comforts and creating moments of joy for each resident.

Some of the care and safety features in place at Orchard Park include 24-hour care, medications administered by licensed medication aides, Wanderguard, assistance with bathing, dressing, and personal hygiene, emergency call systems and pull cords, dietary accommodations, and transportation to and from doctors’ appointments. They also believe that fresh air and sunshine are critical to long-term health and well-being, so Orchard Park has perfectly planned outdoor spaces, including the covered porch, gazebo, patio dining, and garden paths that offer safe opportunities to enjoy the park-like setting.

“I made the right choice for my parents AND for me!”

Nancy, Daughter of residents in Lincoln Nancy’s parents recently moved into CountryHouse and right away she appreciated the homelike atmosphere and welcoming community. If she has any questions or her parents need accommodations, Nancy knows she can count on the expert staff.

“I feel comfortable and at ease knowing that the staff is caring for my folks with fun, helpfulness, compassion, understanding and expertise.”

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When they started Orchard Park, Virgil and Jan did not set out to create a fancy-living facilities or nursing home with resortstyle amenities and gourmet chefs that came with a big hit on the wallet. Instead, they saw the need for a community where seniors could simply continue living the way to which they were accustomed. By keeping their focus on what they believe is most important, they can offer a cost for care that is more affordable to residents who want to preserve more of their nest egg and make it last as long as possible. They provide a community that feels like home—familiar, comfortable, and rife with friendly faces at every turn. Orchard Park Assisted Living also has more registered nurses on staff than any other assisted living facility in town. The result is more thorough, thoughtful care for residents across a wide range of aging-related health issues.

A Custom Fit The folks at Windcrest Assisted Living believe that the seniorliving community is one where you can comfortably and safely age in place, easily socialize with friends, enjoy healthy meals among good company, and remain connected to friends and family. So, Windcrest tries to offer every option going to make that happen naturally for residents, whatever their individual needs. That includes assisted living services, featuring spacious apartments, a dedicated staff 24 hours a day, and a warm community filled with the most sought-after amenities, so residents enjoy the best years of their lives. Residents are warmhearted, interesting people who enjoy the freedom of assisted living—the freedom from the worries and dangers of solitary living and cooking and cleaning in surroundings that are kind and gracious—with the knowledge of knowing someone is always at hand if help is needed. COVID may have thrown a few wrenches into the works but there is finally a light at the end of the tunnel.

“Our community amenities enhance the homelike environment while encouraging social and family connections within the changes the pandemic has brought,” said Executive Director Kylee Graham.

“The majority of our residents have been vaccinated, and we’re starting to get back to some kind of normal with dining services. It’s a relief for everyone because residents can see friends and neighbors up-close and get that crucial personal interaction. We are also continuing our Kylee Graham Ambassador Program, through which Windcrest Assisted Living office staff are assigned to residents to touch base with them, spend some time with them, and ensure that they are getting what they need.”

Probably the most dramatic recent improvement in residents’ health at Windcrest stems from the ability to have face-to-face visitations with friends and family again—and even go on drives to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.

“This has had a big, positive impact on seniors, both their physical and mental health,” Kylee said. “Seeing the excitement and joy when they see their family members face-to-face is priceless and uplifting. Religious services are also starting back up again, while maintaining social distancing and wearing masks, and activities are getting going, too, including full bingo, puzzles, trivia, morning exercise, and walking groups, to name a few.

Windcrest is empowered and encouraged to continually look for new and innovated ways to improve our services and care for our residents.”

Compassionate In-Home Care If your loved one is still able to stay at home but needs a little help with everyday tasks or companionship, Visiting Angels is a fabulous in-home care provider to consider. Some of the services available through Visiting Angels include bathing assistance, dressing assistance, walking assistance, meal preparation, light #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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housekeeping, errands and shopping, medication reminders, joyful companionship, respite care for family caregivers, and more.

Temporary or long-term care is available, as well as weekend, holiday, and 24-hour care. Although home-care requests are usually planned and families need the time to research and evaluate many solutions, Visiting Angels is able to respond quickly to those families and clients that require a faster response in situations that result in immediate care. They’ll learn everything they can about you and walk you through developing a care plan that is specifically tailored to your loved one’s needs.

“When you choose Visiting Angels as your home care provider, we begin by reviewing your loved one's needs,” said Owner Natalie Leon. “We will meet with involved family members and, when necessary, consult with the physician(s) of the care recipient, social workers, hospitals, or nursing home staff. Our goal is to get a complete picture of your loved one's in-home care needs. Home care can be a great support allowing one to maintain their lifestyle and continue their routines in the comfort of their homes.”

Natalie Leon Visiting Angels

Yet another superb option for in-home care is CCA Home Care.

They are the area’s most affordable home-care solutions and screen and refer certified nurse assistant (CNA) level caregivers who work privately for clients in their own homes. CCA caregivers are available to help with things like morning and evening routines, companionship throughout the day, medication reminders and administration, and transportation to and from personal appointments. Throughout the pandemic, CCA Home Care has helped seniors adapt to change and thrive.

CCA Home Care has offi ce locations in Omaha and Lincoln.

Between the two locations, they currently have more than 235 active CNAs on their Home Care Registry. All of them are licensed through the State of Nebraska, privately insured, and bonded.

CCA also publishes an annual ElderCare Resource Handbook, which is available online at ccahomecare.com and provides an all-inclusive listing of business services for elderly clients. The Handbook includes information about government, fi nancial and legal services, medical support, home health services, living options, and more. CCA Home Care can help walk you through the process for home care that allows your loved one to stay in their home—and do so at an affordable price.

A Culture of Care If you’re looking at a move to a senior living community, Pemberly Place tailors its senior living care and services to the individual lifestyles of each resident—including all levels of independent and assisted living, as well as memory support. Pemberly Place operates in a culture of care and meets and exceeds the quality benchmarks set forth by the National Center for Assisted Living.

What’s more, they represent the only senior-living community in Nebraska that can offer an onsite medical clinic.

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“This feature allows our residents to remain at ease with their healthcare needs, knowing if they needed to see a provider, that it can be arranged very quickly,” said Pemberly Director of Marketing Kelly Mans. “Our onsite medical clinic is special, because it gives us the ability to treat our residents right at the clinic or via house calls, which are great when residents are not feeling well because they can stay in their pajamas and our medical staff comes to them!”

Kelly Mans

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provide a family feel versus a corporate atmosphere, and their independent-living apartments recently became licensed to use for assisted-living residents: “So, once you come to live with us, you may never have to move again!” Kelly said. “You can continue living in your apartment, whether or not you need day-to-day assistance. This gives more options to all levels of the population, so if you want a kitchen with a full-sized refrigerator and stackable washer and dryer, we can make that happen regardless of the level of care you require.”

Navigating to a Decision Oasis Senior Advisors can help you navigate the sometimescomplicated morass of details to find the just-right care or living situation for your loved one’s specific needs. It’s always a good idea to plan ahead for senior living whenever possible—at least when you first start recognizing that your loved one might have increasing needs for assistance. Oasis can walk you through all of your options, including in-home, independent, assisted, and memory-care communities—and all of the services from Oasis Senior Advisors are FREE! “The realities of 2020 taught us a lot about expecting the unexpected, said Oasis Senior Advisors Lincoln Franchise Owner Beth Friesen. “One thing for sure, it’s not fun. When it comes to senior living, we encourage people to plan ahead!

If you have a loved one with dementia, don’t wait until there is a crisis to select the appropriate living or day-stay community when or if that time comes. If you or your loved one is experiencing physical or health challenges that are making staying in the Beth Friesen home more difficult, select an assisted Oasis Senior Advisors living community BEFORE it becomes a crisis situation. Calm heads tend to make better decisions.”

In addition to senior housing, Oasis can connect you with many resources across our community, including in-home care, skilled nursing, home health, veterans’ benefits, elder-law attorneys, and so much more. One call does it all when that call is to Oasis!

“We do more than just help you find a place for your loved one,” Beth said. “We welcome you into our Oasis family, provide resources, advocate for both you and your loved ones, and provide a listening ear and shoulder to lean on. You don’t have to do this alone. We do this because it is our calling to serve those around us, and there is never a charge to you or your loved one to use our services.”

While families worried about their loved ones in senior living throughout lockdown during the pandemic, but Beth said studies prove that assisted-living and other forms of senior living were actually some of the safest places for COVID-19-related illnesses.

“In Lincoln, I applaud all our communities for doing an absolutely outstanding job caring for their residents and keeping them safe throughout COVID and moving forward,” Beth said.

Baby Boomer Boom While Lincoln is fortunate to have many options for seniors, Tabitha Senior Living Advocate Aubrey Paulsen said the baby-boom generation is bringing new demand for community needs, in the form of a growing need for “age-inplace” communities where older adults find a place to call home that grows with them as they age and provides access to additional services if the need arises.

“Tabitha is fortunate to be one the few communities in Lincoln to offer this #PrintProudDigitalSmart Aubrey Paulsen Tabitha

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opportunity,” Aubrey said. “As a faith-based, mission-focused nonprofit, Tabitha has been committed to caring for and about Nebraska seniors for more than 130 years. Our senior-care services include results-driven rehabilitation, accessible at-home health care, innovative living communities, and compassionate hospice care. In Lincoln, more than 500 clients daily also rely on Tabitha’s Meal on Wheels program.”

Tabitha offers two living-community campuses in Lincoln, which include assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and long-term care to meet all levels of care and health needs. The innovative, homelike Tabitha Residences represent a one-of-a-kind hospice community that also offers inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation.

The Crete campus offers assisted living and residential-style, long-term care in a rural setting. When planning for senior living, seniors and their families must consider their individual goals to determine which is the best fit.

“Are they looking for one place to continue their aging journey, or would they consider relocating again?” Aubrey asked. “This comes down to understanding the levels of care at each potential community or continuum. They should also consider their finances and research the private-pay commitment at each community, including what happens if they outlive their resources. Does the community accept Medicaid and let them continue to live there, or would they be required to move? Another consideration is the location and whether it provides convenient access to their families, doctors, and places of worship.”

Home-Like Care If you’re looking for a renowned assisted-living community, The Waterford Communities in Lincoln serve up prime opportunities in three different facilities: The Waterford at Williamsburg, The Waterford at College View, and The Waterford at Wilderness Hills, all part of one local, family-owned company.

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The Waterford at Williamsburg is the company’s largest and most traditional community. The Waterford at College View is nestled in the middle of a neighborhood, giving it an extra homelike feel, where they have two separate buildings that also allow them to take care of residents needing memory care. The Waterford at Wilderness Hills Memory Care is the newest of their communities, with just 16 rooms solely dedicated to memory care, where they provide the optimal environment for caring for your loved ones who need more attention and specialized care.

The Waterford Communities has created a resources hub on its website at thewaterford.net, where it provides materials and articles to help you along as you explore your assisted-living operations. That includes a simple care-level quiz to help point you in the right direction for your particular situation and needs and a senior-care glossary to help you understand all the lingo you might encounter during your search, which they’ll walk you through every step of the way. So, while finding the right assisted living community can leave you feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone.

Making the Most of Every Day While we all have people we love and want to take care of, including those with Alzheimer’s and dementia, there may come a time when the needs of a person who has a disease are too much to for a family member to manage alone. That’s when Agemark’s CountryHouse Residence for Memory Care can step in. They work with families whose loved one may be in the early stages of memory loss, so they know what resources are available if and when they need them. CountryHouse also sponsors a regular family-support group—to learn about how to cope with cognitive memory loss when it involves someone you love—and participants do not have to know someone living there to participate.

They operate on the philosophy that “So long as a person is living, they are on a journey — and there remains ample opportunity for joy and for wonder.” This philosophy guides everything they do on behalf

of their residents and families. In short, they don’t settle for providing a place for people just to stay. Instead, they seek to make every part of every day truly engaging to the residents who live with them — providing them with real joy and fulfillment.

“Our view of those who have memory loss is that, if it comes with physical or cognitive c hallenges, they’re just challenges,” said COO Marty Hug. “We don’t see age. We don’t see challenges.

We just see people. And all people want the same thing: to live a purposeful, welllived life. So we focus on them individually and use our resources to give them a voice Marty Hug that’s heard. We help them to grow, to Agemark’s CountryHouse have fun, and to live the life they always Residence for wanted before their diagnosis.”

Memory Care Five-Star Senior Care With the top rating for quality measures – five stars from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Hillcrest Firethorn is superb choice for post-acute rehab after a surgery, illness, or hospital stay, or for long-term care services. Part of the care continuum in Lincoln, Hillcrest Home Care can provide in-home skilled medical services and telehealth. Outpatient therapy is also offered through Innovate Physical Therapy at 70th and Pioneers. Choosing Hillcrest each step of the way ensures the continuity of care. At Hillcrest Firethorn, there are even some COVID adaptations they’ve made out of necessity that they plan to continue as Jonathan Anderson responsible practices.

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“Focusing more on our sanitation processes and protocols has undoubtedly reduced the amount of the common cold and flu bugs among our seniors this year,” said Jonathan Anderson, Lincoln business development specialist for Hillcrest Health Services.

“This helps to reduce hospitalizations and contributes to positive outcomes where individuals are healing faster and going beyond previous functional baselines.”

Live, Relax, and Thrive!

Gramercy Hill also offers both independent and assisted-living housing and services in Lincoln. Located on six acres of luscious gardens and floral walking paths, the community invites residents to enjoy comfort and relaxation while taking advantage of exceptional services. They offer residents a vibrant lifestyle that encourages health and independence through innovative recreational, educational, health, and wellness programs.

Spacious apartments provide peace of mind and thoughtful safety features, while also offering residents sought-after amenities and privacy. Gramercy is a great place to live, relax, and thrive!

In planning for the move to senior living, every case is different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all formula. Regardless of your extenuating circumstances, however, it’s never too early to start planning. It also is helpful to make a list of your wants and needs that allows you to be able to ask questions when you tour and consider specific senior-living communities.

With baby boomers retiring at breakneck pace, Gramercy Hill is seeing strong demand for both independent and assisted living, which provides support for caretakers of seniors as well as the seniors themselves. They also offer respite care, which can be helpful to everyone involved. Clients can stay two weeks to three months in a completely furnished apartment. They don’t have the worry of trying to get furniture moved, and Gramercy provides all of the amenities. Their family knows that their loved one is safe and well cared for.

have three households, and they have a walk-out entrance and patio for Alzheimer residents in the secure Memory Support household. They work hard to create a living environment that continuously enriches each resident’s life, and it shows.

In their Memory Care household, Sumner Place focuses on the strengths of each memory-care resident by using their historical personal interests as a method of minimizing the difficulties associated with dementia-related symptoms, which could be as simple as giving a former painter a paintbrush. They also use “Buddies Forever,” which is a comprehensive dementia program that employs techniques and skills such as getting down below eye level, using simple statements, and endorphin boosts—to name a few—to create a foundation for person-centered care.

“Dementia can be a long and unforgiving journey for all who are involved,” said Sumner Place Admissions and Public Relations Coordinator Megan Herter.

“It is impossible to truly understand the fear, confusion, and emotions that those who suffer from dementia with struggle with on a daily basis. At Sumner Place, we specialize in individualized programs designed to reduce feelings of confusion, Megan Herter fear, and agitation, and offer meaningful, Sumner Place Skilled enjoyable activities that stimulate the Nursing & Rehabilitation mind and body.”

Our seniors are the very heart and soul of Lincoln, and we’re clearly blessed to have such top-notch care facilities and services to keep them safe, healthy, and happy, even in difficult times. Our thanks go out to every person involved in senior care. You are truly heroes!

Building a Bridge If you’re considering moving your loved one into senior living and want help navigating the search for senior care and removing the associated guesswork and frustration, we recommend considering Bridge to Better Living. They consult with seniors, their families, and loved ones to connect them with all levels of senior-living communities. They are there to make the process comfortable and specifically tailored to your or your loved one’s needs. The choices for senior-living retirement options are transparent with the no-cost-to-clients assistance of the Bridge to Better Living team. Thousands of lives have been changed with their unique one-on-one approach, with gratitude at the core.

“My mentor and retired transition consultant Robbie Nathan once said, ‘We all need to remember there is so much to be grateful for,’” said Margaret Burnham.

“It’s not what we don’t have; it’s what we still have. Age may decrease hearing, vision, or agility, but the memories seniors have, the life events they’ve experienced, affect how others’ lives evolve. Each person of age should feel valued, so do not hesitate to ask questions until you have an answer. Bridge to Better Living Margaret Burnham finds seniors to be inspirational, and we Bridge to Better Living have the latest technologies to continue to serve seniors and their loved ones through whatever lies beyond COVID.” Dignity in Life Sumner Place Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation is another seniorliving community that prides itself on providing resident-focused care, independence, and offering a home like atmosphere. They #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Pemberly Place offers Pet-Friendly Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Support.

ON-SITE MEDICAL CLINIC Pemberly Place is the only senior living community in Nebraska that has its own on-site medical clinic. Archer Place Medical Clinic, gives residents the healthcare they need without the hassle of leaving home.

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commercial Remodeling Over the five years to 2020, the Commercial Property Remodeling industry benefited from strong overall economic growth, according to IBISWorld. As rising commercial construction activity and corporate profit levels rose in the middle of the period, demand for remodeling services trended upward. Businesses responded by expanding or opening new shops altogether, supporting increased demand for the industry's remodeling services. Overall, IBISWorld estimates that industry revenue rose at an annualized rate of 4.4% to $35.8 billion in the five years to 2020, despite an estimated 11.3% decline in 2020 alone. The pandemic definitely created challenges and did slow remodeling projects for a period, as businesses struggled to survive with existing expenses. Things are picking up for the industry again, and local business owners are starting to look at remodeling projects that can make them stand out.

If the location of your business works well for you but you want to step things up a bit, anything from a new paint job to construction of focus walls, remodeled facilities, new electrical efficiencies, building automation, or a full-on expansion can shine the spotlight on your products and services without the huge headaches and price tags that come with moving or building from scratch. Remodeling can bring new life to your brands, reorganize your spaces to make them operate more effectively, upgrade technologies to remain relevant, instigate more safety measures in light of COVID, or expand to fit more products, services, or space for employees, tenants, or storage. Whatever your needs, remodeling your business can come with big benefits, including improving its visual appeal, boosting its reputation, creating additional space and customers, and lifting morale among employees, to name a few.

Before embarking on a commercial remodeling project, however, it is crucial that you vet your contractors and subcontractors well, to make sure you are choosing companies with integrity, a good reputation, reviews and references for similar work, and a priority for clear and frequent communication with you throughout your remodeling project.

Your workplace is an extension of your brand. It tells your clients who you are as a company. It should be comfortable, clean, and updated in a way that supports optimal productivity, collaboration, and efficiency.

If your business is lacking in any of these areas, it’s probably time for an update. Fortunately, Lincoln is a home to a host of impressive remodeling contractors and subcontractors that fit the bill. So, we talked to a few about what they have to offer and some of the hottest trends and products in the commercial remodeling industry.

Adaptability and Flexibility If we’ve learned anything in pandemic times, it is that change is inevitable, and we have to learn to adapt. That includes changing up your business space to meet the requirements of the times. One way to do that is to work with AOI Corporation, which provides construction general contracting, pre-manufactured interior construction solutions, and an impressive selection of functional and attractive office furnishings.

While commercial remodeling business stalled early in the pandemic, as uncertainty reigned, AOI now is seeing an uptick in business with the arrival of a new normal.

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“Now that we are seeing the beginning of reentry, the need to adjust to new norms will be what drives a lot of renovation efforts,” said AOI Vice President of Marketing & Business Development Patrick Jensen. “With over 70% of companies opting for some sort of work from home and in-office hybrid, the role offices play will need to adapt and change.

Office workers reentering the workplace after working from home will have different needs.

Their expectations on what they want out of an office environment and how it should function Patrick Jensen for them has changed.”

AOI Corporation For those who are more productive at home, the focus will be on collaborative spaces, meeting spaces and areas for serendipitous interaction that is in higher demand. Heads-down work of the traditional office may be saved for the home office, where distractions can be more tightly controlled. Those who have more distractions at home will be looking to the office for a space with less interruptions and more productivity.

“What the pandemic taught us about the future of the design and construction for all environments is that adaptability and flexibility need to be built into the design from day one,” Patrick said. “Facilities need to be change-ready. Executing projects without this in mind will ultimately leave an organization flatfooted and struggling to adapt or needing to spend large sums in order to meet future challenges.”

Changes in technology, workflow, regulations, staffing, and disasters all highlight the need for environments to flex and adapt. Pre-manufactured interior solutions offered by AOI—including DIRTT and the new Herman Miller furnishings like OE1—are keenly focused on solving this issue for businesses. AOI does a fabulous job of helping you create a fully integrated, customized approach to creating far more than an office space for you.

“We provide a complete solution for the built environment through our construction, furniture and pre-manufactured interior construction groups,” Patrick said. “Products and services can be utilized individually or combined as part of a holistic approach developed in close collaboration with our clients and their design teams. Business owners considering remodeling should come to us because our various business units make us informed of the latest concepts, technologies, and direction the built environment is moving in. We are consultative in our approach to helping clients solve their problems. We streamline the process and help them maximize their investments while achieving their goals!”

Choose Your Delivery Method Cheever Construction is a 100% employeeowned construction management company that has been in business for 60 years, completed nearly 900 jobs, and operates with a single vision in mind: To build good futures for their clients, employees, and the community. Cheever Construction President Justin Kurtzer said selecting the correct delivery method can have a direct impact on the outcome of the project. Numerous items will factor into your decision, including the size of the project, complexity of the project, project Justin Kurtzer type, and overall delivery schedule. While Cheever Construction there are many delivery methods, the three most often used include design-bid-build, construction management, and design build.

“A construction-management approach begins with a business owner hiring a construction manager early in the planning process to provide pre-construction services, working with the architect and/or engineer (under separate contracts with the owner) to establish the project program, constructability, and schedule, and establish benchmark budgets in a team environment,” Kurtzer said.

With a design-bid-build delivery, a business owner hires an architect to design the remodel in full, creating both a plan and specifications #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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to fulfill the owner’s program requirements. The project goes out for competitive bid to a select group of general contractors, or as “opento-all.” Some of the advantages of this delivery method are its single point of responsibility for construction, compliance with public bidding policies, construction documents that clearly define the scope of work, and a project cost that is established through the bidding process.

Because the project design might not be complete when remodeling construction begins, the construction manager typically provides services on a cost-plus-fee basis, sometimes including a guaranteed maximum price. Advantages include the contractor having input during the design; the owner being included in the bid process and selection of subcontractors; the scope being defined during design; the cost and schedule are guaranteed; and design and construction can overlap to accelerate project delivery.

With a design-build approach, a business hires, under a single contract, the construction manager and design professional, which combine services to provide a single point of accountability for the entire project. The entity is responsible for delivering both the design documents and completing construction according to the owner’s requirements. Some advantages of this approach is that the contractor has input during design; the price is guaranteed; there is a single point of responsibility for construction; and design and construction can overlap to accelerate project delivery.

“Whichever method you choose,” Kurtzer said, “Cheever Construction approaches each project with consistent objectives for success. We utilize an effective schedule coupled with the quality and skill from our subcontractors and combined with our field craftsmen,” he said. “Cheever Construction takes pride in all of the relationships that we have entered into. We strive to make each project the precursor to the next project, while building a lasting relationship with everyone involved.”

Xtream Integrity Whether you’re looking to build an addition onto your business, put on a fresh, new roof, or change up the space usage on the interior, Xtream General Contracting can handle the job. This family-owned and operated business is a licensed general contractor accredited by the Better Business Bureau, and their crew has more than 25 years or experience in construction and remodeling. They provide knowledgeable project managers and employees, who come together to build your project with quality and confidence in mind. They excel in commercial, industrial, and residential interior and exterior construction, remodeling, and restoration, including everything from framing, drywall, plumbing, windows and doors, complete commercial remodels, tile and flooring, electrical, carpentry, flooring, cabinetry, siding, concrete, painting, staining, building decks, patios, landscaping, lawn care, and snow removal, so you get the whole package in one!

“Now that commercial businesses are open, their confidence in economic growth is increasing, and they are more comfortable with doing some remodeling projects,” said Xtream General Managers and CEO Michael Cubas. “We as a company are here to stay for a long time. Our goal is to establish a great relationship with our Lincoln community, and we are a company with integrity. We are idealists who believe that, by investing time in our local community, it will invest in us.”

Xtream General Contracting has an amazing Michael Cubas team of dedicated employees who all share Xtream General Contracting the pride of building quality products. Each team member has to be the right fit, work well with the team, and share the values behind the company. The Xtream General Contracting team has become a big family, and each one adds to the whole of the company. They work together efficiently and quickly, while still prioritizing each customer’s wants and needs.

“We offer quality workmanship, superb work ethic, and competitive pricing which separates us from the rest,” Michael said. “We are confident you will be pleased with work we have done as well as the ability to track projects we currently have in progress. Xtream General #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Contracting is ready to tackle any of your remodeling needs. We offer impeccable service and competitive pricing, so that you can get the look and functionality you want for your business. We want to give you great results and service during each phase of your remodeling project, all while you maintain your sanity! There are a lot of options out there, but we think you’ll find that working with us will prove to be one of the best decisions you could make.”

Upping the WOW Factor Whatever your remodeling project, Zeng Granite can give your commercial space the WOW factor that it deserves and that will capture the attention of your customers and potential customers. They deliver high-quality, beautiful quartz and granite countertops, large-slab wall features for floor-to-ceiling fireplaces or focal walls, and more. They are a perfect addition to apartment remodels, too, as they can create features and finishing touches that will draw renters in and give your building that stunning look of luxury without breaking the bank.

“Zeng Granite has provided commercial services for more than 20 years,” said Integrator Jennifer Haralson, who is the person bringing a sense of urgency and coordination across her team to make your project on-time and beautiful. “We are excellent in our project management skills for large scale remodels and new construction.

We assist general contractors with their countertops in granite and quartz, and we also provide design services and stone fabrication for beautiful focal walls, reception Jennifer Haralson desks, and public-restroom areas. We can Zeng Granite even make your logo out of stone and lay into a desk or wall!”

Zeng has witnessed significant demand for remodeling projects, including residential, commercial, and apartment buildings. For the stone portions

Kingery Construction Co. has built a wide variety of projects for educational, medical and religious spaces as well as commercial, governmental, industrial and private owners. We are honored to have constructed several iconic landmarks and developed relationships with owners and architects that span decades.

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We have successfully completed projects of Design/Bid/Build, Design/ Build, Construction Manager at Risk and Construction Manager as Agent methods, Tenant Improvements and Commercial Remodels.

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of any remodeling project, it’s a good idea to hire a company like Zeng, with professional stone fabricators because they have a trained staff to handle all of the challenges that come with commercial or business remodels. They can direct business owners to the perfect materials for achieving the look and function desired, at the same time keeping everyone on the job site safe, even with the challenges that the pandemic has delivered.

“We are being asked to quote often for restaurants, retirement communities, and apartment complexes,” Jennifer said. “With the pandemic, we are seeing some materials delayed in shipping and are experiencing price increases for freight and materials, but we’re getting the jobs done and done right, regardless!”

Some of the latest trends in stone surfaces are amazingly thin and beautiful ultra-compact surfaces and porcelain tiles. The “tiles” for these products are sometimes as large as 10-feet-by-6-feet slabs that are only 4 millimeters thick. Because of the complexity of installation, however, Jennifer recommends doing your homework before hiring someone for any job involving remodeling of your home or business.

“There are some fantastic new products coming from the East and West Coasts that designers and business owners are excited about,” Jennifer said. “These include the ultra-compacts and porcelain large scale tiles.

The tiles are 10 feet tall and 5 feet wide, so there are very few grout lines to disrupt the beauty of the stone. They do, however, require a specialized fabrication and installation process, which Zeng Granite is certified to complete. Be sure to get many references for your contractors before you start your remodeling project. A nice website and one interview is not enough to see if they will give you what they promise.

Zeng Granite works with selected builders in Lincoln and Omaha who hold the same values as we do: Family. Education. Safety. Longevity through Quality.”

Benefits of Remodeling Oftentimes, remodeling your business can be far more efficient allaround than starting from scratch to get the new amenities or space you want to add to your site. In fact, there are a lot of benefits that stem from remodeling over new construction.

“Constructing a new building is beneficial in that it gives you control over every aspect of the design throughout every layer of the building,” said Tru-Built Construction Coowner Bo Jones. “However, sometimes the best option is to take an existing building and make improvements.”

Tru-Built takes pride in offering premier commercial renovation and remodeling services, with some projects including transforming the former The Post & Nickel Bo Jones building into a mixed-use one that incorporates Chase Bank, Lululemon Athletica, and Madida Tru-Built Construction Clothing commercial spaces, plus leased condo spaces on the upper floors. In reality, that building is actually four separate buildings, built side-to-side. That served up some challenges of its own, including varying floor levels, split plumbing and electric, and working on the remodel in the tight confines of the downtown area.

“Regardless of the challenges, we ended up with a unique building with some fabulous features,” Bo said. “We preserved the original wood floors, the old billboard ads on the brick walls, and restored the big windows that were filled in with brick over the years. The group of owners committed to a complete renovation, including re-footing the basement, adding new structural walls and beams, supporting the floor joists and roof trusses with steel, installing new wall framing, and new electric, heating, cooling, plumbing, fire protection, drywall, paint, windows, cabinets, and more. It basically is a completely new building and exemplifies the benefits of using what you have instead of starting from scratch!”

Tru-Built Construction has been around in Lincoln since the early 2000s.

They know the Lincoln community. Since they began offering their services, they’ve grown larger, completed countless remodels, custom home projects, and more. The Tru-Built reputation of having an expert #PrintProudDigitalSmart

team dedicated to high-quality work and making people’s vision come true is well-earned.

Taking ‘Creative’ to New Heights If you want to take “creative” to new heights and like the idea of having a general contractor, builder, and designer for your remodeling project all in one, be sure to check out Jonathan Curtis Design. They truly do it all, and they have tremendous experience on their side to manage and carry out any remodel you can imagine, offering progressive ideas and skills that will make it a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

“We’re a pretty unique company doing what we do,” said Owner Jonathan Curtis.

“From fine cabinetry to building an outdoor space, addition, roofing, the whole thing, we have incredibly talented artisans on our team to bring your visions to life. We’re not an ordinary contractor. We talk to you from a vantage point of real-world experience, knowing how to build for you, maintaining an eye for detail, keeping up with design trends, and coming up with some of my own. It makes for a unique hybrid.”

Jonathan Curtis Jonathan Curtis Design Design services by Jonathan Curtis Design include virtually everything but the furnishing.

They have expertise in color and texture pairing, material selection, scaling to size and fit, and maximizing use of space, so the function of your business truly meets your evolving needs. In short, they provide cohesive thinking to create the character you want your business to exude.

Automating for Efficiency A huge trend for commercial remodel projects is building automation— intelligent, data-enabled automation and related controls. Since the desire to improve efficiency and effectiveness is never-ending, companies like Engineered Controls are in high demand. By providing essential instrumentation, Engineered Controls offers affordable integrated building control and automation systems that make your buildings smarter and more efficient.

These systems save energy, lower operational costs, and enable productive and secure environments. Building automation platforms can connect your HVAC, lighting, safety, and security systems, enabling them to talk to each other in a single language, on a single platform. This gives business owners information to make better decisions, save money, feel safer, and improve the way their buildings function.

"As most building owners know, energy is the single largest expense in a building’s total operating budget," said Engineered Controls President and CEO Pat Killeen.

"In fact, 30% of it is used inefficiently or unnecessarily. One of the best ways to keep those costs down is to develop a comprehensive strategy to reduce energy use and integrate a quality control system."

Engineered Controls designs, installs, manages, and services building management and Pat Killeen security solutions for buildings and facilities Engineered Controls of all sizes and types. For more than 20 years, they have been dedicated to designing easy-to-use building automation and security systems that provide the highest possible energy efficiency, while ensuring occupant comfort and maintaining a safe and secure workplace.

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

Engineered Controls offers a comprehensive energy evaluation program to customers in which Energy and Environmental Optimization (EEO)#PrintProudDigitalSmart

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program-certified professionals can quickly assess your building’s current state and consult with you on the goals and objectives of your energy efficiency project.

"You can’t manage what you don’t measure!" Pat exclaimed. "Evaluating your energy usage and potential waste by metering the current electrical systems you have in place can open up the door to great savings in the long run. You might find it's time to upgrade, and that is where we come in."

Engineered Controls offers many energy-related products, including variable frequency drives (VFDs) designed specifically for commercial buildings. VFDs control the speed of a three-phase AC motor, while resulting in energy savings. They save energy because the motor does not require as much current at lower speeds. VFDs monitor building systems constantly and provide automatic adjustment of fan speeds for optimal energy usage.

“We live in an era in which buildings of any size and shape can become intelligent buildings,” Pat said. “With open-protocol technology, they can connect multiple subsystems together, on one network, rather than operating them all independently—maximizing energy efficiency, lowering maintenance costs, and providing centralized building control.”

Most new construction these days includes some level of building automation, but if you are operating out of an older space, incorporating building automation and control systems into your remodeling goals has the potential to really improve your business.

Hiring the RIGHT Electrician Virtually every commercial remodel will require hiring an electrician.

First, your business can’t operate without electricity and, second, it’s critical that your wiring be professionally maintained to keep employees and clients safe. Be sure to consider energy efficiency— which really comes into play on the electrical side of things. This is why so many businesses have made the decision to convert to LED lighting. Being greener is not only great for the environment but also great for your pocketbook. LED lighting is said to use 50–90% less electricity, which can end up totaling a lot of money’s worth of savings on your annual electric costs.

Although many contractors offer electrical services, it’s important to research providers to determine who is most qualified for your particular job. Jon Eicher, project manager for ABC Electric in Lincoln, recommends checking seven key factors about an electrician before hiring one for your project, noting that ABC Electric meets all of these criteria.

First—and regardless of the size of the remodeling project—be sure that your electrician is fully licensed and insured.

Jon Eicher In Nebraska, electrical contractors are ABC Electric required to have a license that demonstrates they have completed the education and field training necessary to perform jobs safely and correctly. It’s also crucial that licensed electricians have the proper insurance to protect you from getting stuck paying for any possible damages. Second, check into the types of jobs an electrician has traditionally done and make sure the experience meshes with your project.

“Some contractors may only focus on residential jobs, while others may specialize in lighting,” Jon said. “If you’re doing a commercial remodel, you want to identify your project needs and make sure the professional you choose is experienced in that area.”

Third, it is vital to find out who from a company actually will be performing the work: “Ideally, you’ll want a contractor that uses their own employees, not subcontractors,” Jon said.

“Subcontractors may not be covered by insurance or have the experience your project requires.”

Fourth, professional electricians must stay current on their education about ever-changing electric codes. The National Electric Code is routinely updated to address changes in technology and new safety #PrintProudDigitalSmart

requirements, and your electrician must stay informed of every new rule to ensure that your project is completed in a compliant fashion.

What’s more, having up-to-date knowledge about codes can help streamline your permitting needs.

Fifth, you want to choose an electrician who prices services based on the specific materials and labor required to complete your commercial remodel. If the company charges a flat rate, you could end up paying more than you should have.

Sixth, you want to choose a provider that offers emergency support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you know they will be there in the event of any emergencies during your project duration. You don’t want to wait for a solution. Finally, Jon recommends reviewing an electrician’s guarantee policies.

“Warranties and guarantees can protect you from additional costs if you need to fix problems with any work that your electrician provides during your remodel,” he said. “Ask your contractor what their guarantees cover and how long the protection is valid.”

Exceeding Your Expectations As Arnold Palmer said, “The road to success is always under construction.” That’s a motto under which Kingery Construction operates in their quest to help businesses in the community emerge, grow, and sustain their places of business. They offer general contracting, design-bid-build, design-bid, pre-bond/pre-construction assistance, and construction management services. Kingery can assist in all phases of your construction project, from knowing where to start and how to organize in the early stages of planning, to moving forward with a design and serving as your partner and resource for the successful completion of your project.

As you contemplate remodeling projects, Kingery recommends that you consider concentrating a large portion of your budget into highlighting your customer-focused spaces. The first step, however, is to select a contractor prior to creating your design.

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“This will help to ensure that the project runs more smoothly and that suggested design concepts are viable in the space being remodeled,” said Kingery Vice President Rick Wintermute. “Also be sure to verify design efficiency with your contractor, regarding construction costs to help your project stay on budget and within your desired schedule. Finally, utilize your contractor to educate you about the plans, so that the vision and final product are what you are expecting.”

Rick Wintermute Kingery Construction Some of the latest commercial-remodeling trends that Kingery has witnessed include an uptick in the use of repurposed materials, both as a way to reuse items already in the space and a way to provide a greener building process. Businesses are also doing some remodeling projects to increase health and safety protocols long-term. Because of the exciting new developments in technology and the construction industry, options for the design of efficient, high-quality, aesthetically appealing architecture have expanded. These new developments make the completion of building projects more efficient and improve the results, too.

“During the last 97 years, Kingery Construction has had the opportunity to work on a wide variety of projects for educational entities, hospitals, churches, commercial, governmental, industrial, and private projects,” Rick said. “With this experience comes the ability to foresee the particular challenges that each project could potentially face. Our promise is to complete your project on time and on budget, while meeting your needs and exceeding your expectations.”

The Restoration Experts Restoration jobs might be different than the more typical “remodeling” project, but they are crucial components of reworking commercial structures. The family-owned McGill Restoration specializes in large-

scale, complex projects in the concrete and masonry segments of the industry, including parking garages, stadiums, and other commercial structures. In 2020, they celebrated 35 years in business, and over the last four consecutive years, Inc. magazine has recognized McGill as one of the 5,000 fastest-growing privately owned businesses in the U.S. Their projects regularly win industry awards for excellence, as well, and all of which are important to the aging infrastructure of our communities and nation.

“Restoration requires an in-depth understanding of a structure’s history and details,” said McGill Vice President of Operations Ben Russell. “Researching the building, the materials, and the best techniques is essential to providing a beautifully restored project. Asking the right questions helps you plan properly: When was it built? What is it going to be used for in the future? These questions will provide a lot of answers to the type of materials that must be used in its restoration. When Ben Russell it comes to the planning and execution of McGill Restoration a project, consulting with industry experts alleviates a lot of headaches.”

Ben said one of the biggest trends in commercial remodeling today is preservation of aging buildings in the area, where business owners are restoring older buildings or converting older spaces into modern designs. If you are considering restoring an older building, though, you can’t overestimate the importance of research in preparing for a restoration project. That research is the key to how you go about restoring a building and how authentic your end result is.

The shutdowns that came with the COVID-19 pandemic actually made restoration and remodeling projects easier—for McGill and their clients alike. The timing of the closures helped businesses accomplish some crucial work, at a time when they couldn’t run normal operations.

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Some of the jobs McGill took on included work on the Bergan Mercy Hospital parking garage, Eagle Parking garage, Southbridge Condominiums, and Nebraska Medical Center. Parking structures that normally would have been full of cars (at hospitals, retail outlets, offices, and the like) were mostly empty due to closures, thus allowing McGill Construction to perform their work without having to block off stalls or spend time and staff to redirect traffic.

McGill has achieved excelled growth by investing in new technologies.

That includes investing in and designing custom Business Intelligence (BI) tools that allows them to maintain a holistic and accurate view of their job and workforce capacity in real time for now and in the future. As a result, customers receive more accurate start and completion dates, as this data allows McGill to better align their pipeline of work with sales and project management. They have also invested in integrated accounting and estimation technologies to take the business to the next level, as well as timekeeping and human-resources tools with features such as GPS geofencing and other controls for more accurate time punches.

“These technological advancements have allowed McGill Restoration to significantly invest in our hiring processes and employee development,” Ben said. “One of McGill’s greatest secrets to success if having a reliable and highly knowledgeable workforce.”

The Problem Solvers REGA Engineering Group may not physically construct or remodel commercial buildings, but the work they do is crucial to the success of any commercial construction-related project. REGA has been providing civil engineering, surveying, land development, forensic engineering, landscape architecture, and obstruction observation to its clients since 2003. Now licensed in 13 states, they offer experience in commercial site development, ALTA surveys, floodplain development, energy efficiency, landscape architecture, and—recently added— investigative engineering. Their multi-state experience has helped them grow in their knowledge and problem-solving abilities.

REGA’s diverse experience in public and private civil engineering projects is evident in the projects they have tackled, including site development and grading, recreational facilities, pedestrian/ recreation trail design, roadway plans, profiles and design, parking lot design, parking arrangement for on-grade and structural configurations, storm and sanitary sewer analysis and design, storm sewer drainage studies, detention facilities, potable water-system design, and soil erosion controls for temporary and permanent installations and utility relocations.

“We are in charge of surveying and care for things like water quality and stormwater drainage, and this requires construction observance throughout every commercial project we take on,” said REGA President Dan Rosenthal. “Construction observation can be the most critical service provided for any construction project.

Full-time observation by our engineering professionals is the best defense against problems during and after construction. It’s crucial to ensure that management plans Dan Rosenthal for water and drainage meet the needs of REGA Engineering Group everything they affect, including lots and corners, roads, floodplains, and more.”

With more than 40 years of experience in surveying, REGA Engineering Group also provides site surveying, construction as-built surveying, and topographic surveying and construction staking. Their surveyors have broad experience in all facets of large and small projects, including private, commercial, and governmental, facility construction layout, roads, and utilities. The company has worked on many topographic surveying projects for Lincoln, Omaha, Auburn, Columbus, Falls City, Fremont, Nebraska City, and other communities throughout the Midwest.

REGA Engineering Group recently joined the Investigative Engineers Association Member Firm (I-ENG-A), a nationwide network of #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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“The investigative engineers at REGA reconstruct the events that give rise to property, casualty, and liability claims,” Dan explained.

“Services requested by the clients of investigative engineers include auto/component failure analysis, cause and origin, scope and damages, mitigation measures, subrogation claims, fire and arson investigation, structural analysis/review, traffic accident reconstruction, slip and fall analysis, product failure analysis, mold contamination investigation, earth movement analysis, and laboratory testing. Basically, we are the on-site problem solvers!”

Streamline Your Way to Savings Sometimes, a remodeling project isn’t about construction, but savings.

Streamline Energy Solutions has a team of energy-efficiency specialists who have the goal of saving you money by making changes to your building through air sealing, energy audits, insulation, solar attic fans, and duct sealing. They have a strong reputation for truly listening to clients’ needs and achieving the results they are looking for. Streamline’s qualified team will also ensure that your home or business meets code requirements, all with energy efficiency in mind.

“Planning an energy smart building during the design phase of your project is a strategy that will produce both a long-term return on investment and help ensure a comfortable environment,” said Streamline Co-founder and BPI-Certified Auditor Jen Keller.

“Weatherization measures installed at the building stage will always JUNE 2021 Strictly Business 81

be worth the investment. Knowing where to insulate during construction will help ensure a more energy efficient building.”

Streamline’s experienced technicians will ensure that all areas of a build—attic, walls, floor, crawl space, etc.—are insulated to the highest standards to ensure that codes are met. They can also help you install smart thermostats that will save an average of 10-12% on heating bills and about 15% on your cooling bills.

Jen Keller With a combined total of 16 years of Streamline Energy experience in the industry, Streamline’s Solutions co-founders Jen Keller and Nathan Capps came together to provide a holistic approach to energy efficiency.

Their energy auditing services, coupled with a variety of weatherization upgrades maximize your savings while minimizing your energy usage. Their core values are excellence, integrity, customer satisfaction, and responsibility, and they show in the host of tremendous reviews and five-star ratings they get from customer after customer.

If you find that your energy bills have increased or your employees or clients are too warm in your building, it’s important to realize that things like insulation codes change over time, and you may be experiencing the need for upgrades. Keeping your insulation updated will mean improved energy efficiency, reduced energy costs, the comfort of your family clients, and employees, and more.

Spruce Up Your Exterior For businesses that are looking for a more historical, classic design to spruce up their building’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 their own brickwork. In addition to their own bricks, they also import a selection of bricks from other manufacturers, chosen to complement the local Nebraska market.

Yankee Hill Brick’s face brick is made using the highest quality materials and the most advanced manufacturing techniques. Their on-site mining facilities produce unique clay blends that allow them to produce a wide range of colors to fit any architectural design requirement. Face brick is used for its look, color, and texture to add a beautiful quality to certain buildings. Just a few of the many distinctive styles of face brick include the following: • Standard face brick, available in numerous colors, notable for its smooth, sharp look.

• Tumble face brick, notable for a rugged look without sharp corners.

• Antique face brick, notable for a stone-like texture.

• Iron spot face brick, notable for a subtle, consistent texture of spots and marks.

The combination of quality, color, and pristine makes Yankee Hill Brick an attractive choice for architects and design-build first throughout Nebraska, the United States, and internationally.

When business growth or changes spur the need for reorganization or redesign of your space, don’t forget to consider remodeling as opposed to new construction. Sometimes, you can accomplish more change than you might think in your existing space. Fortunately, Lincoln is home to the full slate of reputable experts you could possibly need to get the job done—and done right. Reach out to these folks if you need some input or are ready to get going on your commercial remodeling project. They’ll help you from start to finish!

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