Strictly Business Lincoln - July 2025

KENZIE CHRISTENSEN

BRAD WELLS

W H E R E W H E R E Y O U R Y O U R

B U S I N E S S F I N D S B U S I N E S S F I N D S

I T S I T S V O I C E V O I C E

A Paige From My Notebook...

This year marks another milestone for Strictly Business Magazines—32 incredible years serving the Lincoln community and 17 years in Omaha. It's hard to put into words just how grateful I am for the journey we've taken and the people who have made it so rewarding. What started as a simple idea to support local businesses has grown into something much more meaningful: a trusted platform where professionals, entrepreneurs, and organizations can share their stories, amplify their expertise, and build long-lasting credibility.

More than 50 clients have trusted us for over a decade—and even one since our very first issue. That kind of loyalty speaks volumes. It’s a reflection not only of our commitment to consistent, quality content marketing, but also the strong partnerships we've built. To all our clients, advertisers, readers, and friends—you have helped shape who we are today, and I can’t thank you enough.

One thing that has never changed over the years is our mission: to help local businesses grow by offering display advertisements and unmatched content marketing support both in print and online. From feature stories and cover profiles to press releases to client spotlights and Star City/ River City Six profiles—we provide thousands of dollars in free content marketing services to our clients because we believe in the power of visibility and credibility. And now, more than ever, our reach extends across social media and search engines, bringing your story to life in ways we couldn’t have imagined 30 years ago.

One thing that has never changed over the years is our mission: to help local businesses grow by offering display advertisements and unmatched content marketing support both in print and online.

I also want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible team behind the scenes. To the remarkable employees who've helped us—and our clients—achieve their best, thank you. Your creativity, dedication, and passion for excellence make this magazine possible month after month. Every layout, every article, every interaction with a client reflects your effort and pride in what we do.

So, as we look ahead to the future, we remain just as committed as ever to helping you succeed. Whether you're a business owner, nonprofit leader, or marketing professional, we are here to help you tell your story, grow your audience, and stand out in a competitive world as the expert. Readers, whenever you visit with one of our advertisers, please be sure to tell them “I saw you in Strictly Business Magazine.” Thank you!

Here’s to the past, present, and future of Strictly Business— and to your continued success.

Warmly,

Paige Zutavern President, Strictly Business Magazine

Cruise & Associates: We Work for People Who Work

President Robert F. Cruise, E.A., grew Cruise & Associates (cruise-associates.com) from a one-room office to seven locations across Nebraska. Robert started the company with goal of helping small to midsize owners grow their business and take it to the next level. He opened his first location, Columbus, in 1991 then added Omaha in 2001, Albion in 2015, Lincoln in 2016, Grand Island in 2018, Wayne in 2019 and Norfolk in 2021.

Cruise & Associates specializes in working with individuals and businesses to handle their income tax, business and financial service’s needs. Robert believes the key to running a successful business is giving clients personal service. Clients are assigned an accountant to work with them year-round, so he or she gets to know their business.

Building client relationships help create an environment where owners can do what they do best, which is running their business. They do not need to be focusing on paying bills, tracking finances, paying employees or trying to figure out QuickBooks. Cruise & Associates accountants and bookkeepers can help take that stress away.

custom strategy because what works for one person doesn’t work for everyone. We believe in educating and providing our clients with the tools needed to be successful.”

Each of the offices is staffed with an accountant who is available to answer questions year-round. In Lincoln, people will be working with Josiah Clements. Josiah graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a major in accounting and minors in finance and mathematics from the University of Nebraska Lincoln. He also earned his Master’s Degree in Professional Accountancy from UNL and is working on his CPA certification.

“We see ourselves as being on the frontlines with many small business owners and trying to be a partner in their success by building good relationships and acting as an advisor for both tax, financial and business decisions,” Rob said. “ We keep clients educated, so they are better able to make informed business decisions.”

To learn more about Cruise & Associates, visit the website at cruise-associates.com.

“We listen to a business owners’ needs and work one-on-one with them to develop a plan for their business,” Robert said. “We spend time to develop a

Art Director: Walker Anderson – Walker@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Editors: Savannah Redl & Amber Holly

Copywriters: Macey Wahl, Mikala Cuda & Haylee Wang

Walker Savannah Amber Macey Mikala Haylee

HoriSunHospiceisproudtobenameda“Best Places to Work” in Lincoln by Woods Aitken LLP, the Lincoln Journal Star, and LincolnHR

Woods Aitken LLP, the Lincoln Journal Star, and the LincolnHR, founders of the Best Places to Work in Lincoln list, announced that HoriSun Hospice has been named “Best Place to Work” for the 2025 list in the mediumcompany sized category.

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

HoriSun Hospice being named a “Best Place to Work” reflects their deep commitment to creating a supportive, meaningful, and team-centered environment. Locally owned and mission-driven, they prioritize flexibility, communication, and compassion; not only in the care they provide, but in how they care for their staff. From responsive leadership to creative scheduling options and emotional support resources, their team feels heard, valued, and empowered. HoriSun Hospice believes when their employees are well cared for, they bring their very best to the patients and families they serve every day.

“As we celebrate more than two decades of service, I continue to be inspired by the heart our team brings to their work,” said Dr. Bob Bleicher, Medical and Executive Director of HoriSun Hospice. “We’ve built a culture that honors each individual, and that kind of environment doesn’t happen by chance – it happens through intentional leadership and a shared purpose.”

Susan Burkey, Retired RN and Program Coordinator, added, “We’ve always believed that compassionate care begins with a compassionate workplace. HoriSun is more than a place to work –it’s a place where people find meaning, connection, and support in what they do.”

HoriSun Hospice believes that hospice care affirms life. Their mission and promise to the community is simple, to provide the best care possible, 24 hours a day, seven days a week for all whose lives are affected by a life limiting illness or condition. Comfort, compassion, and caring are our guiding principles.

For more information about HoriSun Hospice, visit www.horisunhospice. com, or call 402-484-6444. For complete details about the Best Places to Work in Lincoln, visit www.woodsaitken.com/bptw.

Katniss Clinic Now Open on Saturdays

Located inside New Skin Aesthetics, the office of plastic surgeon Dr. Keli Kolegraff, MD, PhD can help you get looking your best for the summer. Now with weekend hours including Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and her personalized, individual approach, Dr. Keli will make looking your best the easiest it’s ever been.

Katniss Clinic offers a variety of surgical and non-surgical procedures to make you love the way you look, whether it be improving your skin tone and complexion, removing unwanted wrinkles, bulges, or excess skin, or even addressing scars or other issues that affect your self-esteem.

Some services offered by Katniss Clinic include:

· Breast reduction, lift, or augmentation

· Body contouring including abdominoplasty “tummy tuck” and brachioplasty “arm lift”

· Facelift/necklift

· Botox and Daxxify (Cosmetic or Medical)

· Micro-needling

Whether it is reconstructive surgery after an accident or a procedure to alter a feature you’ve always felt insecure about, the decision to undergo surgery can be empowering.

With weekend hours for people who are constantly moving during the week, Dr. Keli is here to boost your confidence and make that change you’ve always wanted!

Look Good. Look Natural. Nebraska Natural.

Contact Dr. Keli Kolegraff at drkeli@katnissclinic.com or book online at katnissclinic.janeapp.com

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

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

The Talon Room, Now Offers an Open to the Public Lunch Club

Every Tuesday (pending events schedule), the Talon Room is open for a buffet style lunch. The lunch buffet will consist of a rotating hot lunch option for $10, a premium salad bar for $10, or a combination for $18. Lunch is available for dine-in or take-away from 11:30am-1:30pm. We are posting the weekly menu on our Facebook page and our website: talonroom. com/lunch-club

The goal is to grow awareness of our new service through the summer and by August, offer our lunch club Monday-Wednesday. We are also offering the same weekly hot lunch or salad menu options for private caterings for pick-up or drop-off with a minimum of 20 guests.

Our Library space, is also available for reservation during the Lunch Club. This is a great space for up to 50 guests and is a complimentary rental with purchase of a Lunch Club offering. The Library is first come first serve for reservation.

If you have questions or would like to learn more, you can email Matt Rogge at Matt@TalonRoom.com or Morgan Brum at Morgan@ TalonRoom.com. See you next week!

Community,Coffee&Construction:Celebrating40 YearsofSchwisowConstruction’sLegacyinLincoln

Schwisow Construction proudly marked 40 years in business with an open house and ribbon cutting event at its newly expanded and remodeled headquarters. The event brought together clients, partners, friends, and community members for a morning of celebration, reflection, and giving back.

With a great turnout and strong community support, the event doubled as an opportunity to make a difference. Schwisow partnered with the Food Bank of Lincoln, collecting enough donated items during the event to provide 340 meals for families in need.

“The Food Bank of Lincoln is honored to be part of celebrating Schwisow Construction’s 40 incredible years of community impact.” said Jason Pauling, Director of Corporate Partnerships “We’re deeply grateful for this partnership, which has already led to over 15,000 meals for food-insecure neighbors in Southeast Nebraska.”

The ribbon cutting ceremony was filled with meaningful moments, including a special tribute to the field crew, who were given the honor of cutting the ribbon, a fitting recognition of the hands that have built Schwisow’s legacy over the past 40 years. Following the ribbon cutting, guests toured the newly renovated space, sipped coffee and sampled treats from local favorite The Chocolate Season, and enjoyed a live radio remote hosted by Adam Carriker on The Ticket (93.7 FM).

The 40th anniversary milestone reflects Schwisow Construction’s continued growth and legacy. The newly expanded space is designed to better serve clients, enhance collaboration, and support future innovation. “Celebrating 40 years is a milestone that reflects the dedication of our team, the trust of our clients, and the strength of the communities we serve.” said Doug Blum, President and CEO of Schwisow Construction. “This open house and ribbon cutting not only mark our continued growth, but also honor the relationships and hard work that have built Schwisow Construction into what it is today.”

For more about Schwisow Construction’s work or to see photos from the event, visit www.schwisow.com.

MY Wellness Sound Bath Retreat

MY Wellness Center is excited to announce a Sound Bath Retreat on Wednesday, July 24th from 6:00–7:00 PM, featuring the calming and transformative sounds of Pure Sound Alchemy. This unique experience offers participants the opportunity to unwind and reset through the power of sound healing. The evening will include a full hour of immersive sound frequencies designed to relax the nervous system, release energetic blockages, and promote deep inner peace.

Held within the serene environment of MY Wellness Center, guests will also benefit from exposure to the Energy Enhancement SystemTM (EESystem™) a cutting-edge light therapy technology that supports the body’s natural healing abilities through scalar energy and light. Advance registration is required, and space is limited.

Reserve your spot: https://www.mywellnesscenterees.com/events Don’t miss this chance to experience sound healing in a powerful and supportive setting.

Media Contact: Sara Baldonado Email: relax@mywellnesscenterees.com For more information: https://www.mywellnesscenterees.com/events

At Rose Cat Coffee Co., we believe in the boundless potential of all people. Our inclusive coffee shop creates meaningful employment for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities while fostering connections that change hearts and minds. Here, our valued baristas take incredible pride in their work. Come experience our award-winning brew of coffee, connection, and collective change.

rosecatcoffee.com

5600 S.48th St. Ste 120, Lincoln, NE 68516 531-310-5742

ALLO Enhances Business Voice Solutions with MicrosoftTeamsVoiceand AnalogVoiceOfferings

ALLO Communications is transforming how businesses communicate with powerful, flexible voice solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of modern workplaces.

ALLO’s Microsoft Teams Voice and Analog Voice offerings are designed to deliver seamless, reliable, and high-quality voice communication, backed by the strength of ALLO’s 100% fiber-optic network.

With Microsoft Teams Voice, businesses can unify calling, video, messaging, and collaboration into one secure, user-friendly platform. ALLO’s direct routing solution enables organizations to utilize Teams as their comprehensive phone system, simplifying complexity, streamlining infrastructure, and enhancing productivity. This solution is especially beneficial for:

• Enterprise businesses and large teams – offering scalable communication capabilities across departments and locations.

• Hybrid and remote workforces – enabling seamless collaboration regardless of team members’ location.

• Professional services firms – supporting clear, reliable client communication.

• Client-focused businesses – ensuring consistent and professional contact with customers through integrated voice solutions.

For a more traditional option, Analog Voice remains a reliable communication option for many businesses, particularly in scenarios where simplicity, reliability, and compatibility with legacy systems are essential.

• Ideal for small offices and local businesses.

• Supports organizations with legacy infrastructure.

• Useful for backup and disaster recovery systems. Learn more at allocommunications.com

Mosaic Celebrates 112 Years of Impact in Southeast Nebraska

Mosaic is proud to celebrate 112 years of service, growth, and community impact since its founding in Axtell, Nebraska, in 1913. This milestone marks over a century of making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with diverse needs throughout the region.

To commemorate this special anniversary, Mosaic is inviting the public to join in the celebration with a Summer Splash & Learn event at Annabell Gardens in Lincoln, Nebraska. The event takes place on Tuesday, July 23rd, 2025 at 1:00pm to 3:00pm. The event will take place at Annabell Gardens, 200 S 68th St Pl, Lincoln, NE 68510.

Some event highlights will be, pool access, slushies & ice cream, lawn games, shaded gazebos, and more.

Whether you’re a longtime supporter of Mosaic or simply curious about how the organization serves individuals with diverse needs, this event is a great opportunity to connect with the community, cool off, and celebrate 112 years of progress and purpose.

Mosaic has been committed to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, empowering them to live their lives to the fullest. We invite you to join us for an afternoon of fun, learning, and celebration as we reflect on our history and look ahead to an even brighter future.

For more information, visit www.mosaicinfo.org, or contact Malindi Gabelhouse at malindi.gabelhouse@mosaicinfo.org.

A-1 Automotive Opens Second Location to Serve South Lincoln Community

City officials, commissioners and Lincoln Chamber of Commerce representatives will celebrate the opening of A-1 Automotive’s second store location at noon on Friday, May 30, at 52nd and Yankee Hill.

“We are full of gratitude as we expand our services and support to the automotive industry in a bigger capacity to the city’s southside,” said owner and founder Kendall Warnock. “Small businesses are the engines of local economies, creating jobs, fostering innovation and contributing to the very fabric of our great City. My family and I are very grateful to be in this space and make an impact in our community.”

The full-service, local family-owned automotive repair shop, specializes in all makes and models, including EVs, Hybrids, Porshe’s, Land Rovers, Chevrolets, Hondas and preparing for Hydrogen as an energy source, has been providing personalized service for the past 15 years throughout Lincoln and have customers driving from Council Bluffs, Iowa and Marysville, Kansas. The new location at 5110 State Hill Drive will also offer free meeting space in a new on-site Community Room, which can be used at no cost for HOA meetings, business meetings, family gatherings or Birthday parties.

“My wife, Desiree, I and our three children are grateful to see the positive effect that our business has had on the automotive repair industry through the years and with the addition of this new location, that service is even more enhanced,” he said. “We understand the importance of caring for others, nothing matters much more to me than taking care of as many people in this community that we can, and sometimes; that is outside of the automotive repair industry.” Warnock is quick to credit his parents for the work ethic instilled in him as a young man growing up in Rosalie, on the Omaha Indian Reservation.

“We really didn’t know what money was, we had food, and a warm home and kitchen sink to brush our teeth,” Warnock said. “But my parents taught me about hard work at their own two-stall garage and filling station. Through them I learned that caring for others is our first priority and that will never change until my time on earth is up.”

To learn more about A-1 Automotive, or to schedule an appointment, please visit a1autolincoln.com.

Strictly Business Celebrates 32 Year Anniversary

This month, Strictly Business is celebrating 32 years since the launch of the Lincoln publication! Another year, another milestone! We are so fortunate to have amazing clients who have stuck by our side through it all and are grateful for the continued ability to support Lincoln businesses and increase awareness of the awesome things going on in our city!

None of this would be possible without the leadership and continued dedication from President Paige Zutavern and Publisher Shayne Zutavern and every writer and designer who has passed through these doors and sat at our desks.

We take great pride in promoting Lincoln businesses and are honored to serve as a trusted source of information for our community. Not only does this allow us to show our continued support for this amazing city, but it also helps keep community members informed about the latest Lincoln news, empowering them to show their support as well.

To become a client or learn more about Strictly Business, please email editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com

Leadership Harbor Celebrates 10 Years of EmpoweringLeaderswithLive2LeadLNK2025

Leadership Harbor is proud to announce its 10th annual Live2Lead LNK event, set to take place on Friday, November 7, 2025, from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM CST at Christ Lincoln, 6700 Chatsworth Ln, Lincoln, NE 68516.

Live2Lead LNK is a premier leadership and personal growth experience, created by Maxwell Leadership and brought to Lincoln by Leadership Harbor for a full decade of impact. This high-energy simulcast event features powerful presentations from some of the world’s most respected leadership experts, including John C. Maxwell and Tiffani Bova.

“This milestone year is especially meaningful,” said Kris Peterson of Leadership Harbor. “For ten years, we’ve had the privilege of equipping local leaders with world-class insights. Live2Lead continues to be a catalyst for growth across our community.”

Event Highlights: Exclusive Leadership Lessons, Actionable Strategies, Global Connection, and Inspiration & Growth

Our 2025 Speaker Lineup:

• John Maxwell - #1 Leadership Expert and Author

• Tiffani Bova - Past Salesforce Exec and Growth and Innovation Evangelist

• Jesse Cole - Founder of the Savannah Bananas, Author, and International Keynote Speaker

• Anthony Trucks - Former Foster Child, NFL Football Player, Competitor on American Ninja Warrior, Author and Identity Shift Coach

• Kris Peterson - Certified Leadership Consultant, Coach & Speaker

• Brian Peterson - Certified Leadership Coach and Trainer, Maxwell DISC Consultant, and Certified Financial Management Coach

• Aaron Jones - Certified Leadership Coach, Trainer & Speaker - Male Spiritual Leadership AND MORE TO COME!

Whether you’re a business owner, manager, educator, nonprofit leader, or simply passionate about personal growth, Live2Lead LNK offers an unforgettable experience designed to help you lead well and live well.

Reserve your seat now and be part of this legacy event as we celebrate 10 years of leadership transformation in Lincoln! For more information and ticket registration, visit www.leadershipharbor.com/ events. Early bird pricing is July 1 - July 20

VisitLincolnLaunchesSummerPassportProgram

Transform Your Outdoor Space

courteousandprofessional.Ournew treeslookgreat!!!!-ScottMausbach

RenaissanceFinancialEmpowersNebraskans with Personalized Wealth Strategies and Community-Driven Values

“At Renaissance Financial, we provide personalized financial strategies to help individuals, families, and business owners across Nebraska protect, grow, and preserve their wealth. Whether you’re planning for retirement, managing your tax burden, or preparing to transfer assets to the next generation, we’re here to guide you at every step.

The Visit Lincoln Summer Passport Program contains four different passports that range from family fun with the Summer Discovery League; food from across the globe with Around the World in 10 Stops; sip, savor and soak in sun with Cocktails & Courtyards and legendary locations loved by locals with The Regulars’ Route. Stops on the Visit Lincoln Summer Passport Program include family-friendly events, great local restaurants, cocktails and patios, off-the-beaten-path local favorites and places that highlight the adventures awaiting in Lincoln throughout the summer months. To complete the Visit Lincoln Summer Passport Program, Visit Lincoln is using the same mobile check-in procedures used previously for Lincoln Craft Beer Week and Lincoln Coffee Week in 2024 and 2025. For those that complete any of the four passports, they are entered into a drawing to win prizes that showcase offerings from local attractions and businesses. The Visit Lincoln Summer Passport Program officially kicked off on June 1 and will continue through the summer, ending on August 31. There is no cost to sign up for each passport. For more information: at www.lincoln.org/passports.

We begin by understanding your current financial picture and future goals, then build a tailored plan to support your lifestyle today and long term. From reducing debt and managing investments to incorporating charitable giving, our team is committed to helping you pursue financial independence with confidence. We also believe that financial freedom is deeply connected to strong community roots. That’s why we’re proud to support both our clients and the communities we serve.”

Tax and Legal Disclaimer disclosure from section 12.50 of the Communications with the Public Guidelines: “For a comprehensive review of your personal situation, always consult with a tax or legal advisor. Neither Cetera Advisor Networks LLC nor any of its representatives may give legal or tax advice. Securities offered through Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC, a registered investment adviser. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity.

Renaissance Financial Corporation is independently owned and operated. 12801 Pierce Street, Suite 300, Omaha, NE 68144 | (402) 682-3900

For more information: https://www.rfc.com/

Venue5Twenty-TwoExplainsTheirNameAt Ribbon Cutting

Popular event space Venue 5 TwentyTwo gave a speech during their ribboncutting ceremony about the name of their company and how it aligns to their values and company culture.

“Thank you all so much for being here today. It truly means the world to us to have your support as we officially cut the ribbon and open the doors to Venue 5 Twenty-Two. We’ve poured our hearts into every detail, and we couldn’t be more excited to share it with you.”

“The name Venue 5 Twenty-Two comes from a very special place shared in our family—one that has held deep meaning ever since Kylie was a baby and was very sick as a little girl.” Kylie Gana is one of the current owners and founder of Venue 5 Twenty-Two.

”During that time, Galatians 5:22 became a source of strength, hope, and comfort for our family. The verse says: ‘The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.’”

“Those nine words aren’t just part of a beautiful verse—they’re values we strive to live by every day. As a business, as individuals, and as a space where people gather, our hope is that every person who walks through our doors experiences that spirit. Whether you’re planning a celebration, attending a special event, or just stopping by—we want you to feel welcome, supported, and leave here as friends.”

For more information about Venue 5 Twenty-Two, visit: https://www. venue5twenty-two.com/

Larkspur Upholstery Studio Named SemiFinalistin2025AmazonSmallBusinessGrants

Larkspur Upholstery Studio, a woman-owned business based in Lincoln, Nebraska, has been selected as a Top 15 semi-finalist in the 2025 Amazon Small Business Grants.

Amazon Small Business Grants highlight small businesses across the country that demonstrate innovation, community impact, and a vision for sustainable growth. Larkspur was chosen from thousands of applicants for their commitment to preserving traditional highquality craftsmanship while creating new opportunities through upholstery education.

As a semi-finalist, Larkspur is eligible for grant funding and additional support through Amazon Business.

“We’re honored by this recognition,” said co-founder Amy Ainsley. “It’s a meaningful moment for a small shop like ours, and a reminder that quality craftsmanship and the skill it takes, are worth it and still matter.”

Larkspur Upholstery Studio restores heirloom furniture, offers responsibly-new, made in the USA, upholsterer-approved, highquality pieces built to last, and runs a paid apprenticeship program focused on training the next generation of upholsterers - particularly underemployed individuals such as stay-at-home parents. Based in Lincoln, Nebraska, Larkspur’s work blends high-end quality craftsmanship with a commitment to community, education, and sustainability.

Contact: Amy Ainsley or Breanne Reiss at: larkspurupholsterystudio@ gmail.com.

What’s Your Air Score? Technology

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Engineered Controls o��ers t�e latest and �ost ad�anced air ��alit� �onitoring sensors to �ee� �o�r ��ildings �ealt��� �et �o�r indoor air ��alit� s�ea� �or itsel�� ���ices in ��a�a and �incoln, �E�

Grand Opening of the New National Council on Weights and Measures Headquarters

The National Council on Weights and Measures (NCWM) is pleased to announce the grand opening of its new 6,000-squarefoot headquarters in Lincoln. The facility also houses NCWM’s new laboratory for the National Type Evaluation Program (NTEP) for weighing devices used in commerce.

The event took place on June 18 at 9011

S. 83rd St. in Lincoln. A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place at 2 p.m., and was presented by the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, with guests including members of the NCWM Board of Directors.

A key point of interest was the new NTEP laboratory, which features specialized equipment to evaluate and certify that weighing instruments are designed and perform in conformance with the national standards. NTEP certification, as required by the states, means that this new laboratory will serve a customer base of manufacturers worldwide seeking access to the U.S. market.

“This new facility will ensure that NCWM can provide timely NTEP evaluations for manufacturers so they can get their products into the marketplace,” said Executive Director Don Onwiler. “NTEP protects those manufacturers from unfair competition, and end users and their customers from faulty quantity determinations.”

NCWM is a non-profit organization of over 2,000 members that develops model standards for weights and measures in commerce. That is accomplished through collaboration between industry and regulators. The National Institute of Standards and Technology publishes those standards in NIST Handbooks 44, 130, and 133 for voluntary adoption by the states, territories, the District of Columbia and the Navajo Nation. Learn more at www.ncwm.com.

Hub Farmers Market Returns to Union Plaza for the 2025 Season

The Hub Farmers Market is making its much-anticipated return to Union Plaza this summer, offering an evening of local food, live music, and community connection every Wednesday from May 7 through September 24, 2025. Open from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., the market will once again be held at 250 N 21st Street in the heart of downtown Lincoln.

Now in its latest season, the Hub Farmers Market has become a favorite summer staple for locals and visitors alike. With a strong focus on sustainability and community, the market brings together farmers, bakers, artisans, and musicians to create a lively and welcoming atmosphere that reflects the spirit of Lincoln.

It’s a perfect opportunity to support small businesses and local agriculture while discovering unique items and ingredients not typically found in grocery stores.

In addition to shopping, guests can enjoy live music performances from local artists, creating a relaxed, festival-like atmosphere.

The Hub Farmers Market is not only a place to buy fresh and local, but also a gathering space that encourages community engagement and connection. Families, friends, and neighbors are invited to come together each week to celebrate the best of what Lincoln has to offer.

Whether you’re picking up fresh produce for the week, enjoying a night out with live entertainment, or simply exploring what’s new in the local maker scene, the Hub Farmers Market offers something for everyone.

For updates go to, hubcafelincoln.com

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Rose Cat Coffee Co. is Now Serving Lunch For Any Craving

Featuring a Chipotle Chicken Sandwich, an Italian Sandwich, an Egg Sandwich and Peanut Butter and Jelly, this delectable new lunch menu will be served every day at 11 a.m. alongside Rose Cat’s freshly baked goods like a Lemon Blondie or a moist piece of banana bread.

Rose Cat values their employees like no other. Their staff and baristas consist of people with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (IDD). Rose Cat’s mission is to provide individuals with an inclusive and joyful community and workplace.

With 80% of individuals with Developmental or Intellectual Disabilities being unemployed in the U.S., Rose Cat is here to give these individuals an income, work experience and a safe and inclusive community. Relationships are built by employees being seen, valued, included and loved by the community. Your coffee might take a little longer than it would your basic coffee shop, but there is nothing basic or ordinary about Rose Cat or its hardworking employees. They are extraordinary.

Every cup is a step towards a more inclusive community. Rose Cat Coffee Co. and Reading Society is more than just a quick stop for coffee or a muffin. They strive for a world where every community is inclusive and built for everyone. Inclusion and love is the standard at Rose Cat Coffee.

For more information or mobile ordering, visit https://www. rosecatcoffee.com

Growing for Nebraska

The City Bank & Trust Mor tgage Team continues to grow, and now offers a diverse range of loan products including FHA, VA, NIFA, Rural Housing, and Conventional.

Peace,Love,N’Luxury–ShopinStyleatSTATUS!

Located in Lincoln’s Historic Haymarket District, Status Haymarket offers a curated selection of authentic pre-loved luxury handbags, jewelry, and boutique clothing. Their commitment to sustainable luxury ensures each item is certified authentic, providing you with beautiful and tangible investment pieces while embracing eco-friendly fashion. Their exclusive selection allows you to discover unique and luxurious handbags and accessories that complement your style. On June 3rd STATUS had the honor of styling women who are affected by cancer with the Drybar and Via Medical Massage for Cancer Survivors Day - a night of beauty and support!

Experience the charm of Lincoln’s Historic Haymarket during Shop the Docks, a week-long shopping and dining celebration! From July 19-25, the district comes alive with exclusive deals and unique finds at participating retail and specialty shops, restaurants and bars in the Haymarket.

Each visit to a participating business throughout the week is an opportunity to enter to win amazing prizes from those businesses, as well as the grand prize of a $150 Downtown Lincoln Gift Card! The more businesses you visit, the more chances you have to win!

Whether you’re browsing for one-of-a-kind treasues, indulging in sweet treats, or enjoying a delicious meal, Shop the Docks offers something for everyone.

Each ticket comes with a passport filled with discounts and a shopping bag, available for pickup at one of the designated locations during event week. A a passport is required to redeem discounts.

Tickets are $7 in advance and $10 the week of the event.

Learn more at: https://downtownlincoln.org/do/shop-the-docks

Status Haymarket prides themselves on their attentive service to all customers in their welcoming boutique setting. In addition to Cocktails and Conversations, Status offers private bookings all month. Contact them to book your own exclusive shopping experience and personal styling session.

For more information visit Www.mystatusluxhaymarket.com or contact Status at haymarket@mystatuslux.com or (531) 350-5063.

Amparito’s Taste Opens in Lincoln

Amparito’s Taste, a vibrant new multicultural food truck, is excited to announce the grand opening of its first location in Lincoln, Nebraska. The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on May 23rd at 12:00 p.m., marking the official launch of this unique culinary experience.

Amparito’s Taste offers an array of delicious dishes inspired by diverse cultures. With a mission to bring a variety of flavors to the community, Amparito’s Taste aims to cater to all taste preferences. The food truck will be open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., except on Tuesdays, allowing everyone to enjoy their favorite dishes throughout the week

“We are thrilled to bring a taste of different cultures to Lincoln,” said Raul Sarmiento, owner of Amparito’s Taste. “Our goal is to provide a diverse and inclusive dining experience for everyone.”

For more information about Amparito’s Taste, follow us on social media @amparitosmarket on Facebook and Instagram.

From RVs to glamping tents, enjoy cozy stays, countless amenities, themed weekends, and easy access to dining and downtown adventure—A getaway for the whole family!

CenterSphereisOfferingaLincolnNetworkWide Coffee & Connections Event

Hosted by Morrow Collision, join friends and Center Sphere members for coffee and conversation at the Morrow Collision Center, located at 1240 Aries Dr. on Wednesday, July 9, 8:30 to 10 a.m.. Start off the day right with conversation with Lincoln’s most connected business professionals and owners.

Center Sphere committed to authenticity, innovation and consistency as they deliver the best possible experience to the members and the communities they serve. They understand investing in communities and their members is vital to the success of any business and Center Sphere is here to provide networking events allowing individuals to make business connections.

If you interested in inquiring about becoming a Center Sphere member or in a complimentary event, please contact Ashley Hinze at ashley@centersphere.com or call (402) 690-4434.

Genuine relationships are the key to networking, and networking is the key to being a leader and strong member of your industry. Let Center Sphere help you build your own network and propel your business through different types of events where top Lincoln professionals will share ideas, experiences, expertise and referrals. For more information on Lincoln events or Center Sphere, visit: centersphere.com.

Investing

with Clarity: Edward Jones Puts PeopleFirstwithTailoredFinancialPlanning

Edward Jones is a full-service financial investment company that has been in business for over 100 years. They offer a wide spectrum of investments including individual stocks, bonds, mutual funds, exchange traded funds, certificates of deposit, money markets, etc.

Some of the services Edward Jone’s provides are setting up employee retirement plans for small businesses, personal retirement planning, Roth IRA’s, Traditional IRA’s, college savings plans, life insurance, long term care insurance, client education and more. Edward Jones helps individuals, families, and businesses develop financial strategies to accomplish their unique goals, with investments they understand, so they can focus on what is truly important to them.

As a part of Edward Jone’s process, they take the time to learn about you, your family, your concerns, and your goals, so they can build a genuine relationship with you. Edward Jones will continue to stay in contact, maintain consistent reviews with you, adjust their plan as needed, and monitor your progress to make sure you stay on track.

Brian Stork, the Financial Advisor at Edward Jones office is located at 6345 S. 56th St. Suite 200 Lincoln, NE. You can reach him by phone at 402-417-0944 or by email, brian.stork@edwardjones.com

For more information or to request care, call 402-328-2350 or visit traditionshealth.com.

Heroes in Scrubs: Celebrating Our Nursing Staff at Old Cheney Rehabilitation

At Old Cheney Rehabilitation, they are proud to be home to a team of dedicated, compassionate, and highly skilled nursing staff who are central to every patient’s journey from recovery to independence. Their expertise, care, and unwavering support are vital in helping their patients regain strength and confidence during their rehabilitation stay.

Old Cheney Rehabilitation’s mission is simple, but powerful: to help their patients transition safely and successfully from Old Cheney Rehabilitation to home. Achieving that goal wouldn’t be possible without the presence of their incredible nursing staff, who walk beside their patients every step of the way.

For many individuals, a stay at Old Cheney Rehabilitation’s facility follows a hospitalization that may come with new diagnoses, unfamiliar symptoms, or even medical equipment they’ve never used before. It can be an overwhelming and uncertain time, but not when Old Cheney Rehabilitation’s nurses are on the job. They take the time to educate, encourage, and empower both patients and their families, ensuring that everyone feels informed and capable before discharge.

Whether it’s teaching how to manage a new condition, understanding medications, or operating home medical equipment, their nurses are there with patience, skill, and heart. Their guidance turns confusion into clarity and fear into confidence.

At Old Cheney Rehabilitation, their nursing staff aren’t just caregivers, they are teachers, advocates, and partners in every patient’s healing journey. They are incredibly fortunate to have them on their team, and Old Cheney Rehabilitation celebrates their dedication every single day.

For more information: https://oldcheneyrehab.com

PremiumShineCelebrates5YearsinBusiness

Premium Shine, Lincoln’s trusted name in professional auto detailing, proudly celebrates five years in business this May. Owner Julie Boyd, who launched Premium Shine in 2020, is marking this exciting milestone by joining the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce to connect with fellow business leaders and continue investing in the community she serves.

From humble beginnings as a one-woman operation, Premium Shine has grown into a reputable detailing service known for craftsmanship, convenience, and customer care. Whether it’s mobile detailing during the warmer months or service at their winter shop, Premium Shine has built its reputation one sparkling clean vehicle at a time.

“Our mission from day one has been to deliver more than just a clean car, we aim to provide a premium experience,” said Julie Boyd, Owner of Premium Shine. “Joining the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is a meaningful step forward as we continue building relationships, growing our brand, and giving back to the Lincoln community.”

In addition to one-time services, Premium Shine offers convenient monthly memberships, gift cards, and a popular concierge service where they pick up and drop off customer vehicles. Clients are encouraged to book online through the website: https://premiumshine.fieldd.co

As Premium Shine looks ahead to the next five years, the focus remains on quality, integrity, and expanding service to even more Lincoln residents and businesses, including fleet and commercial clients.

To learn more or to schedule a service, visit www.premiumshineusa.com or follow Premium Shine on social media for updates, client transformations, and the occasional “tiny cup of treasures” from car cleanouts.

DOES

Husker Rehab and Ol’ Red 99.5 Raise Record FundsforSt.JudeChildren’sResearchHospital

In southeast Nebraska and northeast Kansas, listeners of NCN Radio Station Ol’ Red 99.5 continue to support St. Jude in a big way. As the title sponsor for the last 10 years, Husker Rehab and owner Ryan Wade are proud to continue to be involved with this wonderful cause and look forward to participating in the future. The owners and staff of Husker Rehab feel passionate about St. Jude’s mission and are honored to be the title sponsor to join in the fight to end childhood cancer.

In 2025 the Ol’ Red community came together and raised a total of $111,835, and over all ten years, an amazing amount of over $746 thousand has been donated. Husker Rehab is proud to be a part of the growth since year one.

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital prides itself on relying solely on donations and not charging its patients and families for any of the care it provides.

The owners and employees of Husker Rehab are devoted to supporting the communities that they serve in Lincoln, Beatrice, Fairbury, and Nebraska City.

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

For more information about Husker Rehab and its services, visit huskerrehab. com.

LES Offers Ways to Save Energy and Money During Summer Heat

High temperatures can lead to higher energy usage and bills as people try to stay cool. Below are some low-cost and no-cost tips to save energy and money while staying cool during the hot summer weather.

• Set your thermostat to the highest comfortable setting. The smaller the difference between the inside and outside temperatures, the lower your energy usage and bill will be.

• Close blinds, drapes and curtains during the hottest part of the day. Keeping your blinds, drapes and curtains closed will help prevent the sun’s rays from heating your home.

• Pre-cool your home during off-peak hours with a smart thermostat. Check out LES’ demand incentive program at LES.com/ PeakRewards.

• Install weather stripping to prevent warm air from entering and cool air from escaping.

• Caulk around windows and doors. Applying a bead of caulk around windows and doors is a simple way to keep cool air inside.

• Inspect your furnace filter and replace as needed to decrease cooling costs and increase efficiency.

• Keep your outdoor unit clear of cottonseed and debris to reduce strain on your AC unit.

• Cook with small appliances. Ovens release heat that makes it harder to keep your home cool. When it’s hot, try cooking with appliances that use less energy, like a microwave or air fryer. Or keep the heat outside and cook with a grill.

• Turn ceiling fans counterclockwise to push cool air down. Just remember to turn them off when you leave the room. Fans cool people, not rooms.

Discover more ways to save on LES’ social media channels and at LES. com/HomeTips.

Governor’s Youth Summit to Connect Nebraska’sStudentswithCareerOpportunities

The Governor’s Youth Summit, hosted by Governor Jim Pillen and the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, will be held on Thursday, August 14, 2025, in Kearney, Nebraska. This landmark event is designed to connect high-potential students from across the state with employers, colleges, and organizations offering real-time career and educational opportunities.

Unlike traditional career fairs, the Youth Summit provides a relational experience, where students can engage directly with industry leaders, offering a range of opportunities including: Internships & apprenticeships, part-time and full-time employment, scholarships & academic incentives, and military, skilled trades, and STEM opportunities.

These opportunities will be available in real-time, helping students make immediate connections with potential employers and educational institutions.

How to Engage

Colleges and Businesses:

• Create or update your profile on CareerPathway.com using the code GovSummit2025 for free Premium access through August 15, 2025.

• Post your career/educational opportunities.

• Register to participate in the event. Spaces are limited, so sign up now!

High School Students & Recent Graduates:

• Register at govsummit.nebraska.gov/youth/registration.

• Create a free CareerPathway.com profile.

• Apply for opportunities in your area of interest.

Parents, Mentors, and Educators:

• Encourage students to register and spread the word!

This event is part of a broader effort to equip Nebraska’s youth with opportunities that will shape their futures. We look forward to seeing how these connections will help our young talent thrive.

For more information: govsummit.nebraska.gov/youth

A Well Being and Oliver Acupuncture Host AcuYogaThisJulyGivingaUniqueAcupuncture and Yoga Experience

A Well Being and Oliver Acupuncture partnered to host AcuYoga on July 19 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. This type of yoga is 60 minutes of restorative slow flow yoga followed by precision acupuncture to enhance relaxation.

A Well Being and their team of professionals will be leading you in 1 hour of Yin Yoga where you hold stretches for 2-3 minutes so your fascia and muscle can have time to truly expand and stretch, a time to relax and let tension leave your body.

Dr. Oliver of Oliver Acupuncture will then provide you with Acupuncture during a 30 minute shavasana so you can truly relax and unwind.

Mats and props will be provided but feel free to bring your own to use! Tickets are $75/person. You can purchase tickets by visiting: https://www.facebook.com/oliveracupuncture/events.

This unique yoga experience will take place at Yoga Together Lincoln, located at 3905 S 48th St, Ste. 4.

BBB Announces Recipients of the 2025 Torch Awards for Ethics

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) of the Midwest Plains is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Torch Awards for Ethics, a prestigious recognition honoring businesses and nonprofits that exemplify outstanding ethics and integrity in the marketplace.

The awards will be presented at the 2025 BBB Torch Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at A View West Shores in Omaha. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now at bbb.org/omahatorch.

An independent panel of industry experts, including past award recipients, selected the honorees. There is no cost to apply or win, and all BBB-compliant organizations are eligible — BBB Accreditation is not a requirement. Local winners will also be considered for the International Torch Awards for Ethics.

For the first time, BBB introduced a Torch Award for Veteran-Owned Businesses, recognizing veteran-led organizations that meet the same rigorous standards of ethical excellence.

The following organizations from Nebraska and Southwest Iowa will be recognized: Credit Management Services, Inc., Custom Cooling & Heating, Inc., Diapers 2 Diplomas Learning Center, LLC, Empire Netting and Fence, Evodia Fragrances, Getzschman Heating, Gottsch’s Good, Hampton Enterprises, Metropolitan Utilities District, Molex LLC, NEI Global Relocation, OneWorld Community Health Centers, Inc., Open Door Mission, Radon Defense Midwest, Vision2Voice Healthcare Communications, White Castle Roofing, Wolfe Electric Co, Inc., and WoodmenLife.

For more information about the Torch Awards and to learn how to attend or support the event, visit bbb.org/omahatorch.

The Lied Center in downtown Lincoln has a diverse variety of shows for this upcoming 2025-2026 season.

From big productions like from Disney’s Frozen: The Broadway Musical and Moana: The Live-to-Film-Concert, to single composers like Gabriela Montero and Yo-Yo Ma, there is something for everyone. Provided by the theater, Create Your Own Season packages lets you pick which shows you’d like to attend out of the diverse events and shows the Lied Center is putting on for this upcoming season. Don’t pay for what you don’t want to see with Create Your Own Season Packages; you can even customize the amount of tickets for each event. If it is a solo night, a romantic date night or an outing with the kiddos, Lied Center has you covered for all your entertainment needs.

Choose from Disney’s Frozen: The Broadway Musical, Hamlet, The Tina Turner Musical, The Soweto Gospel Choir and more, all engaging the Lincoln community in different ways, but always promising a good time.

Bring your kids, loved ones and friends to the Lied Center in the heart of Lincoln for an evening of entertainment and dive into the diverse options the theater provides. Leave the couch and your streaming services, and come for a night of high-quality entertainment.

Create your own season full of entertainment for the whole family and friends, visit: liedcenter.org

55th Annual AHSGR Convention Arrives in Lincoln July 30-August 1

Descendants and researchers of Germans from Russia are poised to enrich their understanding and forge new connections at the 55th Annual American Historical Society of Germans from Russia (AHSGR) Convention, set to take place in Lincoln, from July 30 to August 1.

Lincoln was a major center for arriving Germans from Russia in the late 19th and early 20th century. Because of this important legacy, the 2025 annual AHSGR convention will be held in Lincoln. AHSGR President Bob Ahlbrandt said, “The convention theme is Preserving our Heritage with sessions structured around the three distinct phases of our history occurring in Germany, the Russian Empire, and the Americas”.

Convention chair Jack Unger added, “The convention will include all Germans from Russia, from the Volga to the Black Sea, and where they went after Russia, be that North and South America, Siberia, Kazakhstan, or back to Germany”.

Complementing the convention’s intellectual offerings, attendees will have the opportunity to connect during the Village Gathering and Welcome Night, fostering camaraderie and shared exploration of familial roots.

To register for the convention and to learn more about the speakers, please visit ahsgr.org. The convention will be held at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Lincoln. Room reservations can be made by contacting the hotel.

The American Historical Society of Germans from Russia is a non-profit organization dedicated to researching the history of Germans who settled in the Russian Empire during the 18th and 19th centuries. With headquarters in Lincoln, Nebraska, AHSGR celebrates the enduring legacy of Germans from Russia and their descendants worldwide.

For further information, please contact us at ahsgr@ahsgr.org.

New Golf Simulator Bar and Restaurant Tees Off in Lincoln This July

Golf enthusiasts and food lovers alike have something new to celebrate this summer. Golf-Xperience, a state-of-theart golf simulator bar and restaurant is set to open its doors at 7125 S 29th St, Suite D, Lincoln, NE 68516, bringing a unique combination of immersive entertainment, great food, and a welcoming atmosphere to South Lincoln.

This innovative venue will feature multiple top-of-the-line simulator bays, giving players of all skill levels the opportunity to enjoy realistic golf experiences year-round. Whether you’re practicing your swing, playing a full round with friends, or just trying something new, the simulators offer fun and challenge in equal measure.

In addition to casual play, the business will offer competitive league play, tournaments, and professional lessons, making it a hub for both social players and those looking to improve their game. Guests can relax between rounds at the full-service bar and kitchen, which will serve a curated menu of food and drinks designed to complement the experience.

“We’re excited to create a space where the Lincoln community can come together, unwind, and enjoy the game of golf in a whole new way,” said the owners.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a newcomer, this new destination promises a fun, social, and high-quality indoor golf experience.

More information on opening will be updated on our website GolfXperience.com.

Elevator Expands to Lincoln, Bringing Flexible Co-Warehousing and Office Space to Downtown Entrepreneurs

Elevator, a Co-Warehousing Community, is expanding to Lincoln. Following strong momentum in Omaha and Des Moines, and ahead of its Kansas City launch in Fall 2025, Elevator will open a 25,077-square-foot space on the 5th floor of the iconic Atrium building in the heart of downtown Lincoln. Blending office suites, micro-warehousing, and shared workspace, Elevator gives entrepreneurs and small businesses the flexibility to grow without the burden of long-term leases or disjointed logistics. Members can access private offices, co-working areas, and warehouse space on a month-tomonth basis, with all amenities included.

“Lincoln’s entrepreneurial spirit and strong sense of community align perfectly with Elevator’s mission,” said Emiliano Lerda, Co-Founder and CEO. “We’re excited to provide a space where small businesses can grow alongside each other in a supportive, central location.”

With large windows, views of downtown Lincoln, and an accessible rooftop deck for gatherings and events, the new Elevator location will serve as both a professional workspace and a community hub.

“We’ve always believed that great spaces help build great businesses,” said Shannon Lerda, Co-Founder and President. “This location offers natural light, visibility, and access to everything downtown Lincoln has to offer from the Haymarket District and UNL campus to the Capitol and Memorial Stadium.”

The Lincoln site will include Elevator’s signature offerings: beautifully designed offices, flexible workspaces, collaborative common areas, meeting rooms, and an on-site logistics station for members who need light warehousing support.

Since launching in 2021, Elevator has supported more than 350 small businesses across the Midwest. With its Lincoln expansion, the company continues to create spaces where entrepreneurs can thrive together.

The Lincoln location is set to open in Fall 2025, and Elevator has opened a priority waitlist for those interested in securing exclusive founding member discounts. Learn more at elevatorspaces.com.

Alpha Zed Business Has July and August Availability for New Clients

Alpha Zed Business Services helps businesses stop letting leads and revenue fall through the cracks.

Alpha Zed Business Services specializes in streamlining and automating client interactions, ensuring a smoother experience for both clients and internal teams. With a focus on practical solutions, and not flashy tech, they help businesses operate with more trust, consistency, and quality service.

A custom CRM is the foundation of efficient business operations. Here’s what Alpha Zed’s CRM solutions offer:

• No more spreadsheets – All client information is stored in one centralized, easy-to-access system.

• Deeper client insights – Track interactions and preferences to better understand what clients need.

• Smart automation with a human touch – Messages are timely, relevant, and never feel robotic.

• Foolproof follow-ups – No lead or client slips through the cracks. Alpha Zed’s CRM and automation systems are designed to streamline the client journey, without sacrificing the personal connection that drives longterm relationships.

Availability now open for July and August, an ideal time for businesses to begin optimizing their operations.

Those looking to grow without overwhelm are encouraged to connect with Alpha Zed Business Services today. For more information on Alpha Zed Business Solutions, visit: systemssuperhero.com or email kim@alphazedservices.com

by Krista Dittman Agent, Individual & Senior Benefits

What is best way to pay for Dental Services? On Point Health Insurance Agency is Here to Help

There are a variety of methods to access and pay for dental care. Coverage can be included as part of an employer’s benefit package, through an individual dental policy, accessed through a discount plan offered directly from the provider, or just by paying out-of-pocket for everything. Statistics show that a person is more likely to have regular checkups for their teeth if they have insurance that helps cover the cost. They are less likely to go if they are concerned about having a sizeable bill to pay.

When evaluating a dental plan, find out the value of the benefits you will receive in order to compare them to the premium you will pay. For dental plans, you should expect to pay a premium that covers the value of preventive care plus a stated coverage benefit for other services that you might need. For example, if your dentist charges $250 for a cleaning and exam and you budget for two cleanings annually, the $500 expense would be covered if your monthly premium is roughly $41.50/month. If you have any further dental work done during the year, plans typically cover a set percentage of the charge up to a maximum amount. These extra charges and discounts increase the value of your plan.

There are many dental plans and each company uses a network of dentists who have agreed to accept payment from these carriers. Most plans will base their coverage on the “usual and customary” rates for dental procedures. For example, if your plan states it will pay 50% of the charge for a filling or simple extraction and your dentist charges $400 for the service, there is a discrepancy between the billed amount of $400 and the “usual and customary” rate the insurance company will cover. If the “usual and customary” charge is only $200, the plan would likely only pay $100 (50%) of your expense and the remaining balance above the $200 would be your responsibility.

If you need help sorting through your dental insurance options, the licensed agents at On Point Health Insurance Agency offer help advising and enrolling in dental plans for individuals, families and seniors. They are your trusted and local resource for health insurance advice.

For more information: www.insuranceonpoint.com or call 402.625.6578 to connect with a local agent.

STAR CITY SIX KENZIE

Kenzie Christensen VISITING ANGELS

Client Care Coordinator Kenzie Christensen at Visiting Angels

Tell us a little about your business. - We are Visiting Angels home care. We provide living assistance services for seniors who would like to age in place for as long as possible. How did you get started in the business? - I was in education prior to working in healthcare.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The biggest challenge I have faced professionally has been COVID protocols. When I was teaching preschool COVID affected behaviors of the children and it was a challenge when they were in the classroom setting.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband and I have a daughter Adalyn, who is almost three. We live here in Lincoln and love this community! I am the oldest of five children; one sister, three brothers and from that I have two nieces and seven nephews.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - My perfect day off is filled with family time outdoors. We love the various farmer’s markets in town and seeing what is new with those vendors. I also love the thrill of the hunt with garage sales and getting my nails done with my mom and sisters.

Who inspires you? - My mom is my biggest inspiration. She raised my siblings and I on her own, overcoming hardships with grace. She is the strongest person I know.

If you had a theme song, what would it be? – “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun!” – Cyndi Lauper

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - I like to be creative in baking and cooking. If I see a dessert that I like I’ll try and recreate it in my own way.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Big Brother/Big Sisters – I was a volunteer in High School and College. Headstart – I started my career in teaching post-college with this organization.

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Toast in Fallbrook

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - My most important achievement professionally would be setting clients up for success to stay home safely and independently.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

“Sometimes the bravest and most important thing you can do is show up!” -Brene Brown

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - If I could choose any other profession to be successful in, it would be working with human trafficking victims. This is a huge issue in our country.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - The biggest turning point in my life would be deciding to go to college. I am the first one in my family to graduate from college so that is a huge success of mine!

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so (phone/email/business website)? - Our website is www. visitingangels.com/lincoln/home

STAR CITY SIX

TESSA

Tessa

Wiser

DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION

Meet Tessa Wiser, the Communications Coordinator at Downtown Lincoln.

Tell us a little about your business.Downtown Lincoln Association (DLA) is a nonprofit organization that provides downtown maintenance and management services, including economic development, marketing, business advocacy, and events. Long story short, we keep Downtown Lincoln clean and beautiful while helping businesses thrive.

How did you get started in the business? - I got an internship in college at a local non-profit music festival, and I loved my work. I eventually fell in love with graphic design, marketing, and making community connections. Working for a non-profit can very much be an all-hands-on-deck situation, so your role is constantly morphing. I’ve worked at a handful of non-profits and always enjoy the environment. I’ve always wanted to feel like I’m doing something good for the community, and what better way to give back?

Who inspires you? - All of my coworkers really inspire me. We’re a small team, so we are all pretty close-knit. They hype me up and make sure I know what I’m worth and what I bring to the table. It’s a very positive environment, and I really do love my job and what I do.

I’ve worked for a couple of non-profits, and I’ve always loved nonprofit work, but the DLA feels more like a family than anywhere else. If you could have a superpower, what would it be? - Teleportation, but only if I could carry items and people with me. Can you imagine how awesome it would be to take all your friends on a spontaneous adventure?

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - I am actually very crafty, and I paint.

I am a mixed-media artist who usually uses acrylic paint to make cool abstract paintings. My art has changed a lot since I first started painting in college. I often incorporate unconventional materials into my art, like glass beads, costume jewelry, chains, and found objects. That’s just a fancy way of saying I like to stick things into wet paint and glue cool things I find onto a canvas. I’ve recently had a few showings around Lincoln, including one downtown.

I have an Instagram account, @wise_r.creations, if you want to see what I’m talking about.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I love to read, actually. I used to read a lot growing up, but during college I didn’t have much time to read for fun. However, this past year, I’ve gotten back into books. Lately, I have been into the subgenre of “women’s wrongs,” which usually involves a female protagonist who is just making all the wrong decisions. It’s very entertaining and often unhinged, but fascinating and fun.

The last book that really stuck with me was Chlorine by Jade Song; it’s a coming-of-age story about a girl who grows up swimming and wants to be a mermaid. Any person who identifies as an overachiever in school should definitely read it, as it focuses on the stress of juggling it all. I have nothing but good things to say about it!

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - That is a tough one, because it really depends on the day. Sultan’s Kite never disappoints. If I’m looking for coffee and a quick bite, the Coffee House is hands down the best. I grab a matcha and cromlette to-go, and I’m off to work.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so (phone/email/business website)? - You can always shoot me an email at tessa@downtownlincoln.org. I’m always down to chat.

ON THEI R GRAND CANYON ECHO DENTAL

CAPITOL EYE CARE & OPENINGS

STAR CITY SIX BRAD

Brad Wells GREENLEAF COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Meet Brad Greenleaf, a sales agent for Greenleaf Commercial in Lincoln

How did you get started in the business?

– I worked with close friends that were already in the commercial and development industry here in Lincoln. What is the biggest challenge so far? - Covid was very impactful. I would have to say that would be the biggest challenge I’ve seen in my career. We all had to navigate that and see our way through it, but there wasn’t a playbook.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- I think creating the network of friends and associates I have over the last 35 years living in Lincoln would be my most important achievement. It’s been very rewarding to be able to help people and to connect them.

Tell us about your family. - My wife Jennifer and I have three amazing kids. We enjoy living in Lincoln. We have been involved with youth soccer as well as high school soccer with the kids, so that keeps us very busy in our spare time. We also enjoy spending time in the mountains each summer.

What do you see as the biggest turning point in your life? - I would think making the decision to not play college soccer and to come to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln was a key pivotal turning point for me. Lincoln is such a wonderful community and has so much to offer! It has been my home since 1988, and we love it here.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Our world is soccer, and I am typically either coaching soccer or enjoying watching soccer in any form in my free time. We watch a lot of premier league soccer together on weekends as well. If it is fall or winter, I am usually getting out into the outdoors with friends and family and hunting. I enjoy all aspects of it, but mostly spending quality time with the kids. Who inspires you? - My family. We are so blessed to have incredible role models in our parents. Our kids are lucky to have grandparents that are so wonderful. Our kids inspire me daily as well, just watching them navigate life.

What is your favorite quote or best piece of advice you were ever given? - “Adversity doesn’t build character, it reveals it.” I heard this quote at a friend of mine’s funeral. I love it because I think we are all possessed with qualities that don’t always show until we are in situations we have to.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - I love photography and taking photos. I have always enjoyed it, and I have a lot of photographs I’ve taken over the years that I enjoy looking at. It is so great to get a good photograph of someone and be able to share that with them or a good landscape photo. I’d like to do more of that in the future.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I love food and enjoy dining out, so I’ve always admired friends of mine with restaurants.

What local nonprofit are you passionate about? - I am on a nonprofit board that awards soccer scholarships to kids that need a little help with club dues or travel fees. It has been rewarding to help them out.

What is your favorite tv show? - I would say Premier League Mornings on Saturday and Sunday mornings. We watch a lot of soccer, and it’s fun to cheer on our favorite team Manchester United, even though we are not having the best season this year!

STAR CITY SIX

SAWYER

Sawyer Collingsworth CITY BANK & TRUST CO.

Sawyer Collingsworth is the Senior Vice President at City Bank & Trust Co.

Tell us a little about your business. - City Bank & Trust is a community-focused bank based right here in Lincoln. We’re a locally owned institution that believes banking should still be personal. Our focus is on building strong, lasting relationships with our customers and communities that we serve.

We offer a full range of financial services, everything from business and commercial lending to personal banking and mortgage solutions. What really sets us apart at our core, is that we are focused on relational banking, not transactional. We’re not just here for the big moments, but involved the day-to-day. Whether it is helping a business owner strategize for the future or sitting down with a couple buying their first home, we’re about providing thoughtful guidance and real support.

We’re proud to be the bank that knows our customers and answers the phone when you call.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The biggest challenge I’ve faced professionally has been planning our upcoming new headquarters project at 40th and Yankee Hill. There have been a lot of details to manage and decision to make, but the biggest part has been trying to make sure the project reflects who we are and our long-term commitment to Lincoln. It’s been a learning experience, but a meaningful one.

Tell us a little about your family. - My wife, Emily, and I met here in Lincoln at Union College. We got married during covid and are close to celebrating our five-year anniversary. Besides the two of us, we have three freeloading cats.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - My favorite things to do on days off to go to Husker sporting events, play golf, or to be out traveling. One of my favorite places to travel is Jackson Hole, Wyoming to be out hiking and looking for wildlife.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - My favorite quote is: “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” ~ Benjamin Franklin

What is your favorite movie? - One of my favorite movies is Klaus, as my wife and I made it a tradition to watch each Christmas.

What is your favorite TV show? - One of my all-time favorites is the Red Green Show. “Quando Moni Flunkus, Moritati”

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Lazlo’s is a favorite as nothing beats their Reuben. I also have a soft spot for Valentino’s, especially for the nostalgia of enjoying their pizza at the Husker games.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - It would have to be Dusko Popov, the World War II double agent who warned the U.S. about the Pearl Harbor attack (which was ignored by Hoover) and played a key role in Operation Fortitude that deceived Germany into expecting an Allied invasion of Calais instead of Normandy. I’d love to hear his stories firsthand that helped inspire the character of James Bond. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so (phone/email/business website)? - I’m always happy to sit down face-to-face, whether that’s over coffee, at your business, or in the branch. If any of the readers would like to reach out, you can contact me directly at (402) 420-2002, email me at SCollingsworth@CityBankandTrust.com, or by visiting our website at www.CityBankandTrust.com.

STAR CITY SIX

Zach Schuelke is the fume extraction department manager at Custom Cooling and Heating

Tell us a little about your business. - At Custom Cooling and Heating the fume extraction department installs and services clean air equipment. This equipment picks up ‘dirty’ air from all types of processes, (ie. welding, food coatings, fiberglass, etc.) filters it and recirculates the filtered air back into the building. We also provide all the standard services a typical HVAC company does.

How did you get started in the business? - I had known the owner for a long time and he asked if I wanted to help part time. My ongoing joke is that I started as a part timer and they just never fired me.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?To me, being able to provide a service that constantly meets customer expectations in form and function is really the only achievement I am concerned with.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have been married to my wife going on six years now, and we have three dogs.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Meeting/marrying my wife. She has really impacted how I see the world and as cliché as it sounds, she has made me a better person. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I really enjoy tinkering on old motorcycles and cars, woodworking, and anything outdoors. Sitting still can be challenging for me and I really enjoy learning new things.

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - As an ongoing joke between myself and my cousin, I would have to say Simple Man by Lynyrd Skynyrd.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Not a super power, but more of a super hero - I would say Ironman. He is a genius with cool machines. If I was him I might have more projects in my garage that were operational than I currently do.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I always thought being a biologist would be really rewarding. I have always enjoyed working out in nature, and since I was a little kid I have had a love for animals. So it would be interesting to be able to dedicate your life to studying them in their natural environments.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I have always had a soft spot for the Ronald McDonald House. As I kid I had some health issues and my family stayed at the Ronald McDonald House in Houston while I was receiving medical care. It was an experience that has stuck with me all my life.

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - This is a tough one, Lincoln has a great food scene, but its hard to argue with a meal from Misty’s. It really is the best and I love the atmosphere. It is just a Lincoln classic.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - I would like to have dinner with Theodore Roosevelt. As a former president, rough rider, conservationist and father of the national parks system, I would love to have a conversation about his life, travels, and our parks.

To contact Custom Cooling and Heating they can call the shop at 402-489-9227.

STAR CITY SIX

SARA

Sara Baldonado MY WELLNESS CENTER

Sara Baldonado is the Co-Owner at MY Wellness Center.

Tell us a little about your business. MY Wellness Center is a holistic wellness space dedicated to supporting the body’s natural healing abilities through cutting-edge, non-invasive technologies. Our centerpiece is the Energy Enhancement System™, a revolutionary light and scalar energy technology that promotes cellular regeneration, improved energy, better sleep, and overall well-being.

We offer a peaceful and restorative environment where clients can unplug, recharge, and experience deep relaxation. Whether you’re dealing with chronic stress, looking to enhance your health, or simply want to feel more energized and balanced, MY Wellness Center is here to support your journey, mind, body, and spirit.

How did you get started in the business? MY Wellness Center was born out of love, hope, and a deeply personal journey. A few years ago, our sister, Morgan Yardley, who the “MY” in our name honors, was diagnosed with breast cancer. As a family, we were desperate to find anything that could support her healing and well-being.

A close family friend told us about the Energy Enhancement System™, and though the nearest center was in Denver, our dad and Morgan began making regular trips there. We watched how the sessions helped her, how they brought comfort, peace, and a renewed sense of strength during such a hard time.

That experience changed everything for us. We knew this technology needed to be more accessible, not just for Morgan, but for others who are seeking holistic, non-invasive support. So we opened MY Wellness Center in Lincoln and Kearney, to bring this life-changing experience to our Nebraska communities and to carry forward Morgan’s spirit of resilience and healing.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? One of the biggest professional challenges I’ve faced was making a complete career shift, from our long-standing, family-owned insurance business, which I had been a part of nearly my entire life, to launching something entirely new with MY Wellness Center.

This transition didn’t just represent a change in profession, it happened during one of the most personally difficult times of my life. Stepping into the unknown, building a business in a completely different industry, and doing it while navigating personal hardship required a level of strength, faith, and resilience I didn’t know I had. But through that challenge, I found a deeper sense of purpose, and now, every day, I get to be part of something that truly changes lives.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? I have four sons ranging in age from 9-15 that are involved in ALL the activities! My favorite thing to do is watch them play sports. On my days off, you’ll find me at a ballfield!

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? Travel agent-I love to travel and wish I could do it more often!

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? Sea Stories: My Life in Special Operations by Admiral William H. McRaven

What is your favorite TV show? Friends

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? Art & Soul

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so (phone/email/business website)? Phone: 531-350-5922 Email: relax@mywellnesscenterees.com

Website: www.mywellnesscenterees.com

Join us for refreshments and a tour of our mission and discover how Mosaic pursues opportunities for people with disabilities in our communities. Tours are held on the third Wednesday of each month from 11:30 a.m. –12:30 p.m.

mosaicinfo.org/locations/nebraska/southeast-ne

Contact Malindi at malindi.gabelhouse@mosaicinfo.org or 402.429.0088 for more information.

www.theopenwindowsolution.com

Commonwealth Announces New Leadership for Future Growth

Commonwealth Electric Company of the Midwest and Commonwealth Holdings, Inc. has announced significant additions to its company officers. Over the past year, the Executive Leadership Team and Board of Directors have been working to expand Commonwealth to better position the company for its current and future growth. The following new hires and promotions have been made to ensure Commonwealth continues to thrive and scale efficiently.

Micah Edson has been promoted to Vice President of Operations. Micah has been with Commonwealth since 2010, starting as a Project Manager and becoming the Branch Manager in 2019. Over the past 15 years, he has played a crucial role in driving operational strategies and ensuring high standards of service and reliability within the Lincoln operation. Micah will continue to lead the Lincoln team and contribute to the company’s Commitment to Excellence.

Steve Hernandes has been promoted to Vice President of Information Technology. Steve joined Commonwealth in 2015 as the IT Director, bringing over 30 years of experience in various IT roles. He has been pivotal in revitalizing the company’s IT infrastructure and focusing on cybersecurity. As Vice President, Steve will continue to lead the IT department and drive IT and cybersecurity initiatives across all operations and subsidiaries.

Lindsay Selig has been promoted to Vice President of Human Resources. Lindsay joined Commonwealth in 2021 as the HR Director. Over the past four years, she has led the growth of the HR team and expanded services provided to employees and operations. As Vice President, Lindsay will also lead the Marketing team, focusing on employee development and ownership as the company continues to grow.

Roger Hamilton has joined Commonwealth as the Vice President of Operations – Low Voltage. Roger has extensive experience in low voltage project management, leadership, and helping organizations provide top notch customer service. With over 30 years in the low voltage and construction industry, he has a proven track record of driving operational excellence and fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. In this role, Roger will oversee our companywide low voltage operations and help us scale efficiently as we grow.

“I’m confident that their skills and qualities add depth to our leadership team and position Commonwealth for continued growth and success. The new hires and promotions will bring a wealth of experience and strategic insight to the company. Each person has shown exceptional leadership, dedication, and a strong Commitment to Excellence. Their diverse expertise will ensure that Commonwealth not only meets its current goals but also grows effectively to embrace future opportunities. With this strengthened leadership team, Commonwealth is well-equipped to navigate the changing landscape of the industry and achieve sustainable growth,” said T Michael Price, president and CEO.

For more information: https://commonwealthelectric.com/lincoln

Jane Raybould, Vice President of B & R Stores, Inc., Retires After

22 Years

Jane Raybould has announced her retirement after 22 years of dedicated service to the company. She will officially retire at the end of March 2025.

Reflecting on her time with B & R Stores, Raybould shared, “It is with a great deal of excitement that I look forward to this next chapter of spending more time with family, especially my granddaughters, and continuing my work in the legislature.”

“I grew up in the grocery business by starting in the fireworks tent at eight years old, then in the bakery department frying donuts, and throughout high school and college as a cashier and administrative support. Grocery people are the best people.”

Raybould expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work closely with her family, stating, “The most wonderful part of all this is that I got to work with my dad, Russ Raybould, and my brother, Pat Raybould.”

“It is such a rare thing, a gift really, having a chance to work side by side with family members you love, admire, and respect—who also genuinely care for our customers and associates.”

“Retirement was delayed while we did value engineering to get the construction costs more in line with our budget. Now, I leave the company in outstanding hands with an extraordinary, experienced leadership team and a third generation in the wings.”

“We often talk about the first store at 17th and Washington as ‘the little neighborhood store that just grew up.’ I am grateful to our hardworking associates, service providers, vendors, and wholesalers who have all contributed to the success of our company. We are in great hands for a very bright future!” For more information on B&R Stores, Inc. or about Jane Raybould visit: https://brstores.com/.

Leadership Nebraska Announces New Class

A new class of Nebraska leaders is ready to take the next step in shaping the future of the state. The NE Chamber Foundation proudly announces the members of Leadership Nebraska Class XVII—a diverse group of professionals selected from across the state to participate in its premier leadership development program.

Leadership Nebraska, presented by Medica, was launched in 2006 with the goal of connecting emerging and established leaders, deepening their understanding of the state’s most pressing issues, and preparing them to make a broader impact in their communities and industries.

Over a seven-month period, participants will take part in immersive sessions covering a wide range of topics including workforce and education, economic development, agriculture, health care, natural resources, and government policy. The program combines hands-on learning with meaningful dialogue, giving participants a deeper understanding of Nebraska and the tools to lead with purpose.

“This year’s class reflects the strength, diversity, and dedication of Nebraska’s leaders,” said Todd Bingham, President of the NE Chamber.

“These individuals are already making a difference in their communities, and Leadership Nebraska will amplify their ability to influence real change across the state. It’s exciting to see how this experience will shape their journeys and the impact they’ll have.”

Upon completing the program, participants will join an alumni network of more than 400 leaders committed to continued growth, collaboration, and service to Nebraska.

Caring Friends announces new District Manager, Alex Mahundi

Caring Friends is pleased to announce the appointment of Alex Mahundi as their new District Manager, effective May 5, 2025. Alex brings valuable experience from the non-profit sector, along with strong operational and marketing expertise. He will be supporting Caring Friends’ efforts in the western region of their coverage area. Alex’s leadership style is rooted in compassion and dedication, qualities that align perfectly with the Caring Friends mission. His background in service and leadership equips him to enhance both client services and staff support. He has been making a meaningful impact since day one. Please join in welcoming Alex Mahundi to the Caring Friends family.

Learn more information about Caring Friends at Caringfriends.com

MegDamme,Celebrates20YearsatFreshStart

Meg Damme has been a guiding light at Fresh Start for two decades, paving the way for transformation, healing, and hope. Her legacy is deeply woven into the heart of their mission, and they are proud to celebrate her 20th Anniversary!

Mrs. Damme began her employment journey at Fresh Start in 2005 as a part- time OnCall staff member. Within six months, she transitioned into a full-time Case Manager, later advancing to Lead Case Manager and then Program Director. Over the years, she has continually demonstrated steadfast dedication, deep compassion, and an unrelenting commitment to the women she serves. Her leadership extends to enhancing the residential program, mentoring staff, and providing direct support to clients. In recognition of her impact and leadership, Mrs. Damme was promoted to Associate Executive Director in July in 2024. Beyond her role at Fresh Start, Meg actively contributes to the broader community. She currently serves on the Governor’s Joint Committee on Mental Health and Substance Abuse, and the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) Board and previously served on the Family and Consumer Advisory Board.

Her impact has been, and continues to be, truly life-changing for the women served. When asked about her longevity at Fresh Start, Mrs. Damme shared, “As a proud alum of the program, to me, there is no greater reward in the world than being a part of someone’s success, even if it’s watching and supporting from the side. Supporting both staff and residents with their goals keeps me going.”

If you are interested in honoring Meg’s 20 year anniversary with a gift or by sponsoring an activity for residents, please contact Lacreshab@freshstarthome.org

Learn more about our work at FreshStartHome.org.

Union Bank & Trust Hires Draper

Union Bank & Trust (UBT) recently hired Leslie Draper as Vice President – Relationship Manager in the bank’s Retirement Plan Services (RPS) department.

Draper brings 18 years of retirement plan industry experience to her role at UBT, where she’ll serve as the primary contact for retirement plan administrators, working closely with them on plan design, regulatory requirements, investment options, retirement readiness and education coordination, tax filing, and ensuring satisfaction and success.

A graduate of the University of Nebraska – Lincoln with a bachelor’s degree in education and human science, Draper has also earned the QKA designation from the American Society of Pension Professionals and Actuaries. She’s a lifelong member of First Presbyterian Church, where she’s participated in numerous community outreach events, in addition to her involvement in Sunday School and Vacation Bible School activities.

Union Bank & Trust is a privately-owned Nebraska bank that offers complete banking, lending, investment, and trust services, in addition to serving as program manager for Nebraska’s NEST College Savings Plan. The bank has 34 full-service and loan production offices in Nebraska and Kansas. It is the third-largest privately owned bank in Nebraska, with bank assets of $8.7 billion and trust assets of $40

The Bridge Behavioral Health is proud to welcome Amy Keck, LADC as our new Clinical Director of Substance Use Programs. The Bridge has been a trusted resource in Lincoln and the surrounding area for decades, providing critical services like withdrawal management, residential treatment, outpatient care, and support for individuals experiencing a substance use crisis. Amy joins the Leadership Team with an impressive background in behavioral health, specializing in substance use and trauma-informed care. Her leadership experience in both outpatient and residential settings will be instrumental as we continue to grow and strengthen the programs that help individuals achieve lasting recovery.

“I am excited to share that I’ve recently joined The Bridge Behavioral Health as part of the Leadership team,” Amy says. “With a background in behavioral health, including a focus on substance use and residential care, I am deeply passionate about supporting individuals in achieving lasting wellness. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of such an impactful organization, and I look forward to working alongside the team to continue supporting our community on their journey toward recovery and growth.”

Amy’s leadership will play a key role in shaping the clinical direction of our substance use services. Her vision, compassion, and commitment to best practices will have a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of our clients. She is also passionate about building community relationships and strengthening partnerships with others who are working to support recovery. Whether you’re a provider, advocate, or community member, Amy would love to connect.

Contact Amy at akeck@thebridgenebraska.org or by calling (402) 4773951. Please join us in giving her a warm welcome!

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank Congratulates Eric Bertrand on Earning Certified Divorce Lending Professional Designation

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank (Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender) is proud to announce that Eric Bertrand, AVP/Mortgage Loan Officer, has officially earned the designation of Certified Divorce Lending Professional (CDLP®) — making him the only CDLP® based in Lincoln, Nebraska.

In addition to this specialized designation, Eric is also an Accredited Financial Counselor® (AFC®), demonstrating his deep commitment to providing expert, compassionate financial guidance. With a unique combination of financial planning and mortgage expertise, Eric is equipped to help divorcing homeowners and their professional teams navigate the complex intersection of divorce and real estate.

“Eric’s achievement reflects the level of care and professionalism we strive to offer every customer,” said Amy Haeffner, SVP / Chief Mortgage Officer at Lincoln Federal Savings Bank. “His knowledge, empathy, and specialized training ensure our clients receive the guidance they need during one of life’s most difficult transitions.”

Working with a CDLP® brings tremendous value to divorcing homeowners by helping them understand how divorce can impact mortgage financing, home equity solutions, and long-term financial stability. CDLPs are trained to collaborate with divorce attorneys, mediators, and financial planners to help build realistic, strategic outcomes that are centered around the client’s future financial wellbeing.

For more information and to contact Eric Bertrand, call 402-3254875 or visit lincolnfed.com/meet-our-team.

StacieGieslerStepsintoaNewRoleatTheBridge Behavioral Health

After 12 years of dedicated service as Office Manager, Stacie Giesler has taken on a new role as HR/Office Manager at The Bridge Behavioral Health, beginning in May 2025. This move reflects both her professional growth and her deep commitment to the organization’s mission.

“This place has been a second home to me,” Stacie shared. “I’ve grown so much here personally and professionally and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to continue growing in a place that means so much to me.”

Since joining The Bridge over a decade ago, Stacie has served as the welcoming face for clients seeking recovery. Her role has been integral to helping individuals take the first step toward healing, offering compassion and calm in a pivotal moment.

“Being that first connection for someone who’s scared or unsure it’s powerful,” Stacie said. “You can show them they’re safe and supported, and that this place is different. That connection can change everything.”

Stacie’s new role will focus on empowering and supporting The Bridge’s staff. Her passion for people and her desire to foster a culture of compassion will continue to play a vital role in the organization’s growth.

“Watching our team grow has been one of the best parts of this journey,” Stacie added. “People here care about the work, the clients, and each other. That’s what makes The Bridge so special.”

Now, as she steps into her new HR role, Stacie will continue to support the heart of The Bridge in a new way helping staff feel empowered, valued, and connected. It’s a transition that aligns perfectly with her passion for people and her desire to make a difference.

Contact Stacie at 402-477-3951 or sgiesler@thebridgenebraska.org.

SCIP Welcomes New School Coordinator

The School Community Intervention & Prevention (SCIP) Program has announced the hiring of Tessah Fulk. Tessah will serve as the School Coordinator for Regions 1, 2 & 6, as well as manage the administrative needs for the program.

Tessah is a native of Scottsbluff, NE and received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. In her position with SCIP, Tessah will work with existing public and private schools who have implemented SCIP, as well as recruit additional schools and agencies. She joins Abbe Edgecombe, School Coordinator for Lincoln/Lancaster County schools and Chris Ivory, School Coordinator for Regions 3, 4 and rural Region 5.

SCIP is a program designed to bring together families, school and the community to support student behavioral and emotional health. SCIP’s mission is to provide effective prevention education for schools, families and communities, equipping schools with early intervention tools for students with behavioral health concerns so they may achieve healthy and productive lives.

SCIP is funded (16% or $50,000) from the Strategic Prevention FrameworkPartnerships for Success States grant (5H79SP083671-01) & (55% or $168,837.71) from the SAPTBG (6B08TIO85820-01M002) through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, contracted through the NE DHHS, Div. of Behavioral Health. SCIP also receives (3% or $10,000) in state funding and (26% or $82,110) of funding from nongovernmental sources, including United Way of Lincoln Lancaster County. SCIP is a program of Lincoln Medical Education Partnership, 4600 Valley Road, Lincoln. To find out more about SCIP, visit our website at www. scipnebraska.com or call (402) 327-6843.

Account For Everyone

Angels Among Us Joins CHAD as Newest Member Agency

Lincoln CBMC’s 24th Annual Golf Classic Tees up at Wilderness Ridge on September 15

Angels Among US (AAU) is excited to announce their acceptance as the newest member agency of CHAD (Combined Health Agencies Drive). CHAD is an organization that currently supports local, Nebraska-based health agencies who are doing important work to improve the health and quality of life of those living in Nebraska. Since 1972, CHAD has supported their partner agencies and connected them with Nebraska companies that want to make a difference. This statewide approach has assisted countless Nebraska families with Nebraska-based resources. Angels Among Us is proud to be a partner agency and support pediatric cancer families statewide.

“Next year marks Angels Among Us’ 20th anniversary, and we are incredibly proud of the critical support we’ve provided to pediatric cancer families across Nebraska,” says Joel Friesen, Board Chair of AAU. “As we look to the future, we’re proud to announce our new partnership with CHAD – a collaboration that will expand our reach, amplify our impact, and connect us with even more families, donors, and supporters throughout the state.”

AAU is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide financial and emotional support to any family whose child is battling pediatric cancer living in or being treated in the state of Nebraska. Since 2006, over 800 families have been supported with over $5.5 million in financial support.

If you are interested in learning more about AAU’s mission, please contact Ashley McMurchie at ashley@myangelsamongus.org or by calling 402-934-0999.

The 24th Annual Lincoln Christian Business Men’s Connection (CBMC) Golf Classic will take place on Monday, September 15 at the beautiful Wilderness Ridge Golf Course, one of Nebraska’s top golfing destinations. This popular event draws over 100 participants each year for a day of golf, fellowship, and support for the impactful ministry of Lincoln CBMC.

The day kicks off with a special breakfast featuring guest speaker Tim Philpot, a seasoned leader with a distinguished background in law, public service, and international ministry. A limited number of tickets are also available for those who would like to attend the breakfast only.

A variety of sponsorship opportunities are available. Businesses and individuals are invited to partner with Lincoln CBMC by sponsoring the event at various levels. Sponsors gain meaningful visibility and the opportunity to support a ministry that’s making a difference in the Lincoln community and beyond.

CBMC is committed to helping men live out their faith in the workplace while growing personally, professionally, and spiritually. As part of a global movement, CBMC Lincoln is one of more than 350 U.S. teams and is connected to ministry efforts in over 90 countries.

To register, become a sponsor, or donate a silent auction item, visit lincoln.cbmc.com/events or call (402) 204-1997. To learn more, visit lincoln.cbmc.com, follow CBMC on Facebook or LinkedIn.

You parked under a tree. The squirrels ate chili.

Heroes Honor Ride Golf Tournament to Support Veterans and First Responders

Join us for a day of golf and giving at the Heroes Honor Ride Golf Tournament on July 19th at Syracuse Golf and Country Club. This exciting event will raise funds for the inaugural Heroes Honor Ride (HHR) event, where HHR will honor veterans and first responders at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip this August.

For $500 per team, players will participate in an 18-hole, 4-man scramble with opportunities to win raffle giveaways, pin prizes, and a hole-in-one prize. Lunch is included, and concessions will be available throughout the day.

All proceeds benefit Heroes Honor Ride, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting those who have served in the military and as first responders. The funds raised will help provide an unforgettable experience for veterans and first responders at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip.

Whether you’re competing for prizes or enjoying a fun day on the course, this event offers something for everyone while making a meaningful impact. Your participation will directly benefit those who have sacrificed for our country.

Spots are limited, so be sure to gather your team and register today!

For more information and to register, visit heroeshonorride.org.

Upcoming Workshop: AI for Nonprofits, It’s Not the Future, It’s Now

If you’ve been wondering how artificial intelligence fits into the nonprofit world, here’s your chance to find out, and see it in action. Filament Essential Services and Cause Collective are teaming up to offer a hands-on training session built just for nonprofit professionals; no tech background required. Whether you’re a team of one or a team of 20, AI can help you work smarter, save time, and amplify your impact.

Why does this training matter? Across the country, nonprofits are already using AI to:

• Cut hours off administrative tasks and grant writing

• Create compelling messages in minutes

• Research funders and trends with lightning speed

• Operate like a team twice the size

This isn’t a lecture. It’s a working session. Bring your laptops to learn by doing: real tools, real prompts, real-time results. You’ll leave with the skills and confidence to start using AI right away.

What will you learn?

• How to write prompts that get meaningful results

• The best AI tools to support your mission

• How to navigate ethical considerations without fear

This session is ideal for nonprofit professionals in marketing, development, leadership, or operations who are curious about AI but unsure where to begin. No jargon. No assumptions. Just real tools and real takeaways. The trainer will be Paul Durban, Assistant Vice President of Nonprofit Services at Filament, brings over 25 years of experience in marketing, strategic planning, and nonprofit innovation. This event takes place on Tuesday, July 15 at 9:00–10:30am. This event is located at Filament Essential Services Training Room at 1300 O Street, Lincoln, NE 68508.

Don’t wait for the future—AI is already here, and it’s ready to help you do more good. Learn more or reserve your seat today at filamentservices.org/ai-training

GoodwilltoOpenNewCenterinNorthLincoln

Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. announced plans to open a thrift and donation center in Lincoln’s North Star Crossing development. Located at the corner of 30th Street and Folkways Boulevard, the new store will neighbor businesses like T.O. Haas, Chick-fil-A and others to be announced. The Folkways location will be one of Goodwill’s largest stores in Southeast Nebraska, increasing opportunities for shoppers, donors and job seekers alike.

“We are excited for this opportunity to offer a larger store north Lincoln,” said Denise Luke, Retail Director at Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska. “The new store will allow us to serve more secondhand shoppers and provide another convenient donation and recycling outlet for community members.”

Like other Goodwill stores in the area, the Folkways location will accept and sell gently used donations of clothing, furniture, electronics and other home goods to support Goodwill’s mission of “willing workers employed and community resources maximized.” Revenue from Goodwill donations funds a variety of local employment services and programs that help individuals overcome traditional barriers to employment.

“Goodwill is grateful for all of our donors and shoppers who help us change lives for local job seekers.” said Alana Sesow, Communications Coordinator at Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska. “Without them, we wouldn’t exist, and the Folkways location will give more individuals the opportunity to join us in this mission.”

For 93 years, Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. has been dedicated to strengthening the Lincoln community through services for individuals facing employment barriers, while providing a year-round outlet for donating clothes, electronics, and household goods. In 2024 alone, Goodwill successfully diverted over 3.3 million pounds of materials from local landfills and served over 5,700 individuals through generous community donations. To learn more, visit www.lincolngoodwill.org.

RedCross:TopTipstoStaySafeThisSummer

It’s time to enjoy the great outdoors and warm weather. The American Red Cross wants everyone to have a safe summer and offers steps they can follow.

SWIMMING: Prevent unsupervised access to water, provide constant and active adult supervision, and know how to swim. Never swim alone, adults, teens and children as well. Designate a “water watcher” whose sole responsibility is to keep a close eye and constant attention on everyone in and around the water. Don’t just pack it, wear your life jacket. In the event of an emergency, reach or throw an object to the person in trouble and tell them to grab on to it. Don’t go in! You could become a victim yourself.

GRILLING, FOOD SAFETY: Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use. Never grill indoors or in any enclosed area. Make sure everyone, including pets, stays away from the grill. Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, deck and tree branches. Use the long-handled tools for cooking on the grill to help keep the chef safe. Don’t leave food out in the hot sun. Keep perishable foods in a cooler with plenty of ice. Separate uncooked meats, poultry and seafood from ready-to-eat foods.

CAMPING: Wear layers of light-weight clothing, sunscreen, and a hat. Pack a first aid kit with insect repellant, sunscreen, and personal medications. First aid kits and emergency supplies are available at redcrossstore.org. Know the level of ability of your group and the environment around you. Share your plans, including where you are going and when you should be back, with a family member, neighbor, or friend. Bring nutritious food items and plenty of water even if you don’t plan to stay overnight.

Visit redcross.org/summersafety for more information.

Keep Nebraska Beautiful hosts State Affiliate Conference

American Heart Association’s Sweetheart Program Seeking Applicants

The 2025 Keep Nebraska Beautiful (KNB) State Affiliate Conference concluded Friday, June 6, after three days of dynamic discussions, workshops, and site tours aimed at fostering stronger, more resilient communities. Held June 4-6 in Lincoln, this year’s theme, “Growing Together: Turning Ambition into Action,” brought together local Keep America Beautiful affiliates, environmental advocates and industry experts to share innovative solutions for sustainability.

The conference opened with critical policy updates, including a keynote from Keep America Beautiful and an in-depth session on battery recycling legislation led by Kent Holm, Director of Douglas County Environmental Services. Attendees later engaged in a lively dialogue with State Senator Jana Hughes (District 24) on natural resource management and education initiatives.

Day two shifted focus to hands-on learning, featuring First Star Recycling opportunities, a tour of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s campus with their Office of Sustainability and a presentation on backyard composting by Nebraska Recycling Council. The evening offered a relaxed networking opportunity at James Arthur Vineyards, where participants connected over wine tastings.

The final day included working sessions for consolidating all the ideas and discussions learned and a tour of American Steed, highlighting advancements in electronics recycling. With record attendance and enthusiastic participation, organizers say the event has set the stage for meaningful local action.

For more information, visit knb.org.

The Sweetheart Program, founded by the American Heart Association, is a unique personal development experience for select high school young women. It provides training in leadership skills, advocacy, community service and heart-healthy living, plus up to 20 community service hours. The program is chaired by founder of Home Instead and former Miss Nebraska, Lori Hogan.

The year of monthly events includes an unprecedented opportunity for the young women and their mothers to attend a Leadership Summit with prominent female leaders in business, education, government and the home. In addition to other educational and fun events, they will also be presented at the Heart Ball on Saturday, Feb. 14.

Throughout their year as Sweethearts, the young women will begin building strong resumes, learn how to best use their personal leadership talents, and create life-long friendships and memories. They will volunteer their time to help others and experience the spirit of community volunteerism, the hallmark of a healthy community.

The local chapter is currently seeking nominations of young women (sophomores-seniors) who exemplify a healthy lifestyle, demonstrate leadership through their schoolwork and activities, and have the desire to give back to the community.

A tax-deductible patronage fee of $2,000 for the program can be paid by parents or by sponsors (civic organizations, friends and relatives, businesses or any combination of the above).

To nominate or apply to be a 2024-25 Sweetheart, please contact Sarah Tslentis at Sarah.Tselentis@heart.org.

TeamJacktoHost“AnEveningwithHenryWinkler”

Join the Team Jack Foundation for an evening with Emmy Award-Winning Actor and Author Henry Winkler to raise funds for childhood brain cancer research. Through humorous anecdotes and inspirational life lessons about overcoming adversity to his storied career in television and entertainment, groups of all ages can learn from Henry’s speeches. His passion for supporting others is the result of a lifetime struggle with undiagnosed dyslexia. Henry has worked tirelessly to bring awareness and support to children who learn differently by advocating for changes in the education system and informing parents and teachers about learning challenges.

Henry Winkler has celebrated over 50 years of success in Hollywood and continues to be in demand not only as an actor, producer, and director but as a best-selling author. His autobiography, BEING HENRY…The Fonz and Beyond, was published in October 2023. It was on the New York Times bestseller list for 11 weeks and was a Good Reads Award winner for Best Humor book.

“An Evening with Henry Winkler” will be held on Thursday, August 7 at the Scott Conference Center beginning with a 6PM social hour. The voice of the Kansas City Chiefs, Mitch Holthus, will serve as the emcee for the event.

Funds raised at this event will benefit the Nebraska Childhood Brain Tumor Program in Omaha, Nebraska. This program was developed by funding from the Team Jack Foundation which was matched by the State of Nebraska.

A sincere thank you to our presenting sponsors the Dennis Baumert Family and the Carson Family for their incredible generosity, and to all of our event sponsors for their invaluable support.

For ticket and sponsorship information, please visit: teamjackfoundation. org/henry.

Training with a service dog is more than learning commands, it’s the foundation of a life-changing partnership. At the 2025 Domesti-PUPS Service Dog Camp, clients and their dogs are doing just that: building trust, developing teamwork, and forming bonds that will support greater independence and emotional confidence.

Investing time in training together fosters mutual understanding and deepens the relationship between dog and handler. This collaborative process ensures the service dog can provide the highest level of support, both practical and emotional. From mastering essential tasks to strengthening communication, each moment spent together is a step toward a more empowered life.

The Domesti-PUPS Service-PUPS program empowers individuals with disabilities by matching them with highly trained dogs capable of performing a wide range of tasks, including picking up dropped items, opening doors, turning light switches on and off, providing balance, pulling wheelchairs, and even assisting with sorting laundry. These remarkable dogs are trained for two years, learning between 30 and 90 specialized commands before being placed with their human partner.

The 12-day Service Dog Camp is the final, transformative phase of this journey, where clients and their service dogs learn, grow, and begin a lifelong partnership. Domesti-PUPS is proud to support these incredible teams and looks forward to seeing the amazing things they’ll accomplish together.

For more information, please visit domestic-pups.org

Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach to Benefit from “SwingforaCause”Golf TournamentinAugust

American Life and Security Corp. invites golf enthusiasts, philanthropists, and community members to participate in the 1st Annual American Life Charity Golf Tournament—a day of sport and solidarity aimed at raising vital funds for Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach.

The 4-person scramble will be held on Monday, August 4, 2025, at Wilderness Ridge Golf Course, beginning with a 10:00 AM shotgun start. Registration includes 18 holes of golf, lunch, a gift bag, and chances to win exciting prizes.

All proceeds from the event will directly support Matt Talbot’s programs, including nutritious meals served twice a day, shower and laundry services for people experiencing homelessness, addiction recovery services, and transitional housing.

American Life believes success means little if it doesn’t contribute to the well-being of the local community and is honored to sponsor this tournament in support of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach—a vital organization doing transformative work for those facing hunger, homelessness, and addiction. This event is more than a day on the golf course; it’s an opportunity to rally around hope, dignity, and real change for those in need.

“The mission of Matt Talbot is to relieve hunger, overcome homelessness, address addiction, and provide outreach and advocacy in Lincoln,” said Alynn Sampson, Executive Director of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach. “This tournament is a terrific way for the community to come together to not only enjoy a great day of golf, but also to help fulfill that mission and make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.”

Learn more and register at https://events.golfstatus.com/ event/2025-american-life-security-corporation-tournamentbenefiting-matt-talbot.

Let’s swing for change—one hole at a time!

Final Deadline Nears for 2025 Cornhusker State Games Registration

The final deadline to register for most events in the 2025 Cornhusker State Games is Wednesday, July 2. Hosted by the Nebraska Sports Council, the annual Olympic-style sports festival offers more than 70 events for Nebraskans of all ages and skill levels.

Competitions take place July 11–20 at venues across the state. Sports range from fan favorites like basketball, volleyball, and wrestling to niche activities including fencing, chess, and power lifting. Participants can expect high-quality competition, organized venues, and a chance to earn gold, silver, or bronze medals in their respective events.

This year, the Games will receive national attention as part of ESPN’s SportsCenter: 50 States in 50 Days series. Nebraska’s feature will air July 15 and include highlights from the Cornhusker State Games, showcasing the state’s active culture, dedicated volunteers, and wideranging community involvement.

“The exposure from ESPN is a huge opportunity to showcase our state’s commitment to healthy activity and friendly competition,” said Nebraska Sports Council President Dave Mlnarik.

To register, view the full list of events, or sign up as a volunteer, visit CornhuskerStateGames.com. With entry limits in several sports and team logistics to consider, participants are encouraged to complete registration before the July 2 final deadline.

On Monday, August 18, 2025, the Heartland Cancer Foundation invites golfers, supporters, and local businesses to join them at Firethorn Golf Club for the annual Heartland Golf Classic—a day filled with camaraderie, competition, and compassion.

This signature event features an 18-hole scramble tournament, lunch, a great selection of silent auction packages, exciting course contests, and an awards ceremony—all in support of a powerful mission: removing financial barriers to cancer treatment for local patients. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just along for the ride, this is a meaningful way to give back and have fun while doing it. It’s also an incredible opportunity for businesses to get involved, support the cause, and gain exposure within the community.

Sponsorships start at just $275, making it easy to support patients and promote your business. Opportunities available include Hole Sponsor, Coffee Truck Sponsor, Putting Contest Sponsor, and Course Challenge Sponsor—each offering visibility and a fun chance to connect directly with attendees in a relaxed, engaging setting.

Proceeds from the event help Nebraska cancer patients with practical needs like housing and transportation costs that are often barriers to treatment.

Don’t miss your chance to swing into action. Learn more or become a sponsor at heartlandcancerfoundation.org.

NebraskaCommunityFoundationUnleashes Hometown Interns

Twenty-four young Nebraskans from every corner of the state recently gathered in Norfolk to kick off a summer of uncovering the unseen assets that make their communities unique and working with local leaders to make an impact on the places they love.

As they floated down the North Fork of the Elkhorn River to end their opening retreat, Nebraska Community Foundation’s (NCF) 2025 class of Hometown Interns pondered the months of discovery that lay ahead of them.

A Hometown Intern is a current high school graduate who has spent at least six months away and lives at home for the summer. All have displayed curiosity, open-mindedness, flexibility, a desire to see their hometown through fresh eyes and a drive to contribute to the future of their community. Interns are compensated for their work through a generous gift from an anonymous donor to NCF, which is matched by their local Nebraska Community Foundation affiliated fund.

Interns also participate in Operation Discovery, a course designed to help them unleash their vision, creativity, and passion while they build relationships within their hometowns.

“Operation Discovery ignites joy, curiosity, and belonging,” said NCF Director of Asset-Based Community Development Becky Boesen. “It empowers Hometown Interns to hold up a mirror to their community, reflecting its abundance and unleashing local goodness.”

“Nebraska Community Foundation has declared 2025 the ‘Year of Invitation,’ and Hometown Internships are one of the most powerful invitations Nebraska communities can extend to their young people,” said NCF CEO and President Jeff Yost. “By offering freedom to uncover, innovate and co-create, this experience is unique in its ability to empower the next generation of Nebraska leaders while strengthening the bonds that energize the communities we love.”

For more information: https://www.nebcommfound.org/news/ nebraska-community-foundation-unleashes-hometown-interns

Nebraska Diaper Bank Calls on Local Businesses to Help Fill Critical Diaper

GapNebraska Diaper Bank is urging local businesses, organizations, and community groups to step up and help tackle an urgent need: larger-sized diapers for Nebraska families.

While the nonprofit distributes 300,000 diapers each month to support 5,000 children, diapers in sizes 5 and 6 remain the most requested, and the hardest to keep in stock. Children stay in these sizes longer, creating consistent demand that outpaces supply.

“We’re running low, and we need the public’s help,” said Anna Lehotyak, Development Director. “When our shelves are low, families have nowhere else to turn. Your workplace or organization can be part of the solution.”

Nebraska Diaper Bank is encouraging businesses and civic groups to:

• Host a “High Sizes” Diaper Drive in the office or at upcoming events

• Donate new or opened packs of size 5 or 6 diapers

Diapers are not covered by federal assistance programs like SNAP or WIC. In Nebraska, 1 in 3 families struggles to afford enough diapers. Without the right size, children may face hygiene issues, health risks, and missed childcare, challenges that impact entire households.

“If your business is looking for a meaningful way to give back, this is it,” said Lehotyak. “A small effort can make a big impact for local families.”

To get started or donate today, visit www.nebraskadiaperbank.org.

TobaccoFreeLancasterCountyLaunchesNew Initiatives to Protect Public Health

Tobacco Free Lancaster County (TFLC) coalition actively gathered community input through surveys and stakeholder meetings to help shape and submit a grant application for funding appropriated through the Nebraska state legislature. Despite recent federal and state funding cuts to tobacco prevention education, TFLC remains committed to its mission. These changes present challenges, but also opportunities for community members, organizations, and advocates to get involved and help prioritize impactful work across Lancaster County. The coalition’s updated workplan focuses on several key areas:

1. Smoke-free Multi-Unit Housing: Supporting policies that protect residents by prohibiting smoking and vaping inside individual housing units.

2. Menthol and Flavored Tobacco Products: Advancing local policies that restrict the sale of menthol cigarettes and flavored tobacco or vaping products.

3. Cessation Support Systems: Partnering with healthcare, education, and social service providers to refer individuals to resources like the Nebraska Tobacco Quitline.

4. Cultural Diversity and Competency: Promoting inclusive practices that reflect and respect the cultural richness of our community.

Funding for Tobacco Free Lancaster County is provided by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services/Tobacco Free Nebraska Program as a result of the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement. Whether you are a resident, business owner, service provider, or advocate, your voice and actions make a difference. Learn more and get involved at TobaccoFreeLancasterCounty.org.

Give to Lincoln Day Breaks Records – Raises $9.5 Million for Local Nonprofits

Lincoln Habitat for Humanity Marks TransformationalYearUnderNewLeadership

The 14th annual Give to Lincoln Day on May 29 raised $9.5 million for 502 local nonprofits –the highest amount raised in the event’s history and nearly $1M more than the year prior. Coordinated by the Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF), Give to Lincoln Day is an online event encouraging donations to support the local nonprofits and causes people care about. The funds are designated to help support charitable organizations that serve Lincoln and Lancaster County.

“Year after year, Give to Lincoln Day represents what makes this community special,” said Tracy Edgerton, LCF President. “Once again, Lincoln has stepped up to break records and uplift the important work of local nonprofits. This incredible display of generosity will open doors for a brighter future.”

All participating nonprofits will receive a proportional share of a $650,000 match fund based upon the organization’s percentage of the total dollars raised, provided by LCF and sponsors including Presenting Sponsor, West Gate Bank.

More than 27,000 donations were received for the 14th annual Give to Lincoln Day. The event has raised more than $75 million for local nonprofits in its 13-year history.

For more information and to see gifts received for each nonprofit, visit www.GiveToLincoln.com.

Sponsors Include: West Gate Bank (Presenting Sponsor), ABC Electric, ALLO Fiber, Assurity Life Foundation, Rich Bailey, The Hsin & Chao Families, D.A. Davidson & Co., Davis Design, Firespring, Frontier Bank, Kile & Cuz Johnson, Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp., Kubly Family Foundation, Mail Management Services, Inc., JoAnn & Derrel Martin, The Family of J. Gates & Daisy Minnick, William J. Mueller & Kim M. Robak, Olsson, Pepsi Cola of Lincoln, Pinnacle Bank, Runza National, Joe W. & Ruth K. Seacrest Fund, Tom & Lisa Smith, Dr. Gene & Kristen Stohs, Talent Plus Inc, The Estate of Mark H. Tallman, Bill & Mae Whitmer Family Fund and WRK Family Foundation.

The Lincoln Community Foundation, established in 1955, strives to continually enrich the Lincoln community by promoting and achieving perpetual philanthropic support. The Foundation has distributed more than $255 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of thousands of residents.

Apace Debuts a New Day Center in Falls City

Lincoln/Lancaster County Habitat for Humanity (LHFH) proudly announces a dynamic and impactful FY25, marked by new leadership, strategic expansion, and a reinvigorated commitment to communitydriven housing solutions across southeast Nebraska.

FY25 ushered in a new era with Shay Homeyer assuming the role of CEO/Executive Director in May 2024. Under her leadership, LHFH completed five home builds, including its latest in Foxtail Meadows, set to close on Monday, June 23, 2025. Shay’s vision has catalyzed organizational growth and regional impact through innovation, grant acquisition, and community partnerships.

The newly created Faith Relations role reflects the organization’s commitment to uniting faith communities and catalyzing tangible improvements throughout the region.

Two major funding wins this fiscal year have positioned LHFH to address diverse housing needs:

• $1.98M Federal Grant for Aging-in-Place Programs

In partnership with SENHAC, LHFH will offer critical home modifications, such as ramps, grab bars, and widened doorways, for residents 65+ across 17 counties in southeast Nebraska, enabling seniors to remain safely and independently in their homes.

• $504,000 Middle-Income Workforce Housing Fund (MWHF)

This grant will support affordable housing development for working families in areas where housing supply remains constrained.

Building on its momentum, LHFH purchased additional land in the Foxtail Meadows/Hoppe Development, ensuring future opportunities for neighborhood revitalization and housing growth. Moreover, the affiliate is expanding its Geographic Service Area to include Otoe County, focusing on rural development, meeting an urgent need for housing options beyond city limits.

In an exciting educational initiative, LHFH partnered with the University of Nebraska’s Durham School of Architectural Engineering & Construction for a Blitz Build in Seward, NE. Over just five days, university students engaged in hands-on construction, gaining practical experience while advancing LHFH’s mission.

“This year was not just about building homes, it was about building capacity, partnerships, and a bold future for affordable housing across our region,” said Shay Homeyer, CEO/Executive Director.

Apace hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house at its new Day Center in Falls City on Thursday, May 29, marking an exciting milestone for the organization. Approximately 50 community members attended to tour the facility and learn more about Apace’s commitment to providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities to live, work, and thrive in their communities.

The Falls City Day Center, currently supporting 8 individuals, is part of Apace’s ongoing mission to provide services to rural communities. The center offers a welcoming and inclusive environment where participants can engage in meaningful activities, build skills, and form connections.

“We are thrilled by the community’s support and enthusiasm,” said Matt Kasik, Chief Executive Officer. “This center represents a significant step forward in ensuring that individuals with disabilities in Falls City and surrounding areas have access to the resources and support they need to achieve their goals.”

Apace looks forward to continuing its work in Falls City and fostering inclusive opportunities for all.

To Learn more go to goapace.com

For media inquiries, partnership opportunities, or to support the mission: shay@lincolnhabitat.org, www.lincolnhabitat.org

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 at strictly-business.com.

AUGUST 2025 ISSUE

In the August 2025 issue of Strictly Business, we will run our annual “Veteran-Owned Businesses” feature to highlight the businesses in Lincoln that are proudly owned and operated by veterans of the United States’ Armed Forces.

“I would absolutely encourage veterans to pursue [entreprenuership]…If you can live with the fact that you might fail, and that’s ok…you can do it…there is no better status symbol right now than to be a veteran entrepreneur. People want us to succeed…we have spent careers defending the American Dream of business ownership, and now it is our time to participate in that dream of business ownership.”

– Craig Cummings, Co-Founder of RideScout

Strictly Business is directly mailed to over 10,000 businesses in Omaha every month! With a 2-4 month shelf life and a pass-along readership, it’s estimated that 1 copy of the magazine reaches at least 5 people. Editorial features are published on our website as well.

Basketball Tournament Benefits the YMCA of Lincoln’s Annual Fundraising Campaign

Vision Maker Media Educates

In collaboration with the Downtown Lincoln Association, the YMCA of Lincoln is excited to announce the return of the 9th Annual Railyard Rims sponsored by SCHEELS on August 1-2. This 3-on-3 basketball tournament will once again transform the streets of the Railyard into a lively arena, where players will compete for more than just hardware.

Tournament proceeds will directly benefit the YMCA of Lincoln’s Annual Fundraising Campaign, a vital initiative that powers critical programs and activities that keep kids safe, people healthy, and families strong. In 2024, the Lincoln YMCA provided over $800,000 in financial assistance to over 1,300 families so they could experience programs ranging from basketball and preschool to swim lessons and senior activities.

The tournament promises an unmatched experience for participants and spectators alike. On Friday night, August 1, the Adult Cup will showcase teams from varying skill levels, while the Youth Cup will take center stage on Saturday, August 2 with tip off starting at 9am. Each team is guaranteed four games, with a maximum of 24 teams in the Adult Cup and 32 teams in the Youth Cup.

“This event brings energy to downtown Lincoln while shining a light on the Y’s mission to strengthen our community through life-changing programs for youth, families, and seniors,” said Renee Yost, President & CEO of the Lincoln YMCA. “We’re grateful for our continued collaboration with the Downtown Lincoln Association to help make it possible.”

Team registration is now open at YMCAlincoln.org/events/railyard-rims.

Vision Maker Media is empowering and engaging Native people to share stories while envisioning a world changed and healed by understanding these stories. Through film, education, and public programming, conversations spark a deeper understanding of Native experiences. VMM’s educational programs include the Native American Film Series and iNative Shorts for Kids.

On July 14 at 7 p.m., The Native American Film Series at the Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center features Ohiyesa: The Soul of an Indian. This inspiring documentary follows a young Dakota woman as she explores the extraordinary life of her celebrated relative, Charles Eastman (Ohiyesa). Biography and life journey come together as the narrator traces Eastman’s path—from traditional Dakota boyhood, through education at Dartmouth College, and in later roles as physician, author, lecturer, and Native American advocate. For more information, visit https://theross.org/.

The iNative Shorts for Kids YouTube channel is VMM’s newest series. It features Frankie the Hawk and brings Indigenous knowledge directly to young learners ages 6–12 through short videos curated from VMM’s extensive film archive. The theme for this month is “Living Legacies.” Each short video introduces young viewers to Native individuals who have made lasting impacts in their communities and beyond. Explore the series now at https://visionmakermedia.org/ inative/ or https://www.youtube.com/@iNativeShortsforKids.

Vision Maker Media is headquartered in Lincoln and houses a 50year archive of films by and about Native Americans, serving as the premier source of Native content for public media.

Hope Village by Bridges to Hope: Building Second Chances Through Housing and Community

Omaha Landmarks Will Shine Purple for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month

Bridges to Hope is proud to announce the launch of Hope Village, a groundbreaking affordable housing program designed to support individuals transitioning from incarceration back into the community. With all permits officially approved by the City of Lincoln, construction began in June 2025.

Hope Village will include 18 tiny homes, each offering stable, affordable housing for individuals who might otherwise face homelessness. These homes will provide more than just a roof, they will offer dignity, safety, and a fresh start. At the heart of the village will be a Community Center, providing space for wraparound support services, youth prevention programming, and community-building activities. An on-site Donation Center will continue the mission of Bridges to Hope by distributing furniture, clothing, and household essentials to individuals rebuilding their lives.

This project is a true community effort, made possible by strong partnerships with local businesses and organizations. Key partners include the City of Lincoln, Millard Lumber, METRO Community College, the Nebraska Department of Corrections, White Castle Roofing, UNL Construction and Engineering, Wellmann Plumbing and Heating, Rezac Construction, ALLO, and JEO Consulting Group. Their dedication, along with the support of generous donors and volunteers, is helping bring this vision to life.

Hope Village represents Bridges to Hope’s unwavering commitment to second chances. As construction begins in 2025, the organization invites the community to join in creating a place where stability, hope, and opportunity come together to transform lives.

If you are interested in learning more about or supporting Hope Village, please email info@bridgestohopene.org.

Nebraska Trailblazers Breakfast Returns to ConnectStudentswithNebraskaBusinessLeaders

Nebraska is turning purple in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, and Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month.

On June 15, the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, the Physicians Mutual Building, and the Bridges Trust Building will glow purple in honor of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge will be lit again on June 22 to mark Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month.

This year, Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month comes at a critical time. For the first time, more than 7 million Americans aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s disease, including 35,100 Nebraskans.

Key facts:

• Nebraska had only 27 geriatricians in 2021. A 137% increase is needed by 2050 to meet the growing demand for care.

• In 2024, caregivers in Nebraska provided 63 million hours of unpaid care, valued at $1.5 billion.

• Women face a 1 in 5 lifetime risk of developing Alzheimer’s at age 45. Men face a 1 in 10 risk of developing Alzheimer’s.

That’s why the Alzheimer’s Association has launched the “10 Healthy Habits for Your Brain” campaign to empower people of all ages to take simple, science-backed steps toward cognitive health. Learn more and take action at alz.org/healthyhabits.

The Foundry’s second annual Nebraska Trailblazers Breakfast will bring together 200 talented students and business leaders on Friday, September 5, from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at DelRay 817 for meaningful conversations about building Nebraska’s future workforce. This interactive breakfast will create direct connections between students and business leaders, exploring how the entrepreneurial mindset can transform careers and organizations while addressing our state’s brain drain challenge. At each thoughtfully curated table, four established business leaders will engage with four high-achieving Nebraska students in authentic discussions about entrepreneurship, career development, and practical strategies to turn brain drain into brain gain.

Dr. Samuel Nelson, director of the Nebraska Center for Entrepreneurship, will deliver the keynote address on how entrepreneurship extends beyond starting businesses to creating change, solving problems, and identifying opportunities. Building on last year’s success, Trailblazers provides business leaders with unique opportunities to learn talent attraction and retention strategies directly from emerging professionals. Every individual registration contributes a donation for a student or young professional ticket.

Register now at https://thefoundry.co/news-events/trailblazers/ trailblazers.html.

For more information, email livia@thefoundry.co.

Branched Oak Observatory is excited to welcome guests for an unforgettable summer of stargazing, science, and space-fueled fun! Their summer hours are Thursday through Saturday from 6 PM to 11 PM for evening skywatching, and Sundays from 11 AM to 5 PM for family-friendly daytime activities.

Each open day features our popular Make-andTake “Space Crafts.” Which is a fun, hands-on educational project perfect for kids and aspiring astronauts of all ages. Our gift shop & admissions store is open during all public hours, packed with space-themed gifts, gear, and cosmic curiosities. Admission is just $5.00 per guest ages 5 and up, and families of four or more (grandparents included!) get in for only $20 total,an out-of-this-world deal!

Don’t miss your chance to hold a real piece of the universe with “Mike the Meteorite,” or witness high-energy particles from deep space on our Cosmic Ray Detector. Of course, no visit is complete without peering into the cosmos through our lineup of telescopes, from high-tech SeeStar digital scopes to our massive 16-inch SchmidtCassegrain. This summer, give your family the stars. We’ll see you under the night sky!

Stay connected for updates and celestial events!

For more information: facebook.com/branchedoakobservatory or www.theboo.org

LFS Headquarters Renamed the “Smith Center” to Honor Long-Time Donors

LFS is one of the largest human care organizations in Nebraska and Western Iowa and delivers exceptional service to thousands of children, individuals and families. Its employees offer a broad spectrum of services ranging from foster care and children’s behavioral health to adult mental health and substance use treatment. When the organization needed a hand, Coyner and Donna Smith were there, time and time again. So, when the time came to give LFS a permanent name, the choice was clear: The Coyner and Donna Smith Center or “Smith Center,” for short.

On Friday, June 6, we honored Coyner’s memory and celebrated the couple’s lifetime commitment to LFS. The dedication event included remarks from the LFS President and CEO Chris Tonniges. Donna Smith unveiled the new lobby plaque honoring the Smith Family, followed by refreshments for those in attendance.

The new Coyner and Donna Smith Center, located at 7929 West Center Road, was once home to Better Business Equipment, the company Coyner Smith founded in 1968.

The Smiths founded the “Smith Diversity Scholarship,” which awards five full-ride university or trade scholarships to Nebraska seniors from underrepresented backgrounds. Launched in 2021, the scholarship program has supported future engineers, doctors and attorneys. The Smiths have also been ardent supporters of all LFS refugee programming in honor of their adopted daughter Leemah and Leemah’s mother.

For more information: https://www.onelfs.org/

Friendship Home Expresses Gratitude for Voice of Hope Partnership

From crisis response to emotional support, Voices of Hope provides critical services to those who are faced with the traumatic aftermath of sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, human trafficking, and more. They provide information, prevention, and understanding to those who are faced with violence.

Friendship Home has similar goals and is passionate about helping domestic violence survivors find physical and emotional safety. Providing crisis service, emergency shelter and transitional housing, Friendship Home helps change lives when people are struggling and in need of a helping hand.

“We are so grateful to stand alongside Voices of Hope, one of our incredible community partners working to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence in Lincoln”.

Whether coordinating care, sharing resources, or providing emergency advocacy, the partnership ensures that survivors are never alone on their path to healing.

“To our friends at Voices of Hope — thank you for your unwavering commitment to this work. We are proud to walk beside you”.

For more information on both organizations, visit https://www. voicesofhopelincoln.org/ and https://friendshiphome.org/

Willard Community Center Announces Early Childhood Program Rebrand

Willard Community Center, located in SW Lincoln, is excited to announce the rebranding of its early childhood program. While the program remains a core part of Willard’s services, it will now be known as Early Explorers through Willard Community Center.

This new name reflects the center’s commitment to fostering curiosity, creativity, and confidence in young children during their most important years of growth. Early Explorers will continue to offer high-quality care and educational experiences in a nurturing and inclusive environment for children ages 3 through pre-kindergarten.

As part of this update, the program has also extended its hours and will now be open Monday through Friday from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, providing greater flexibility for working families.

“The new name captures the spirit of discovery that happens every day in our classrooms,” said Sarah Reinke, Executive Director. “We’re proud of the strong foundation we provide and believe this rebrand helps better tell our story to families in the community.”

Families currently enrolled will see no disruption in care or staffing, and enrollment remains open for the upcoming year.

To learn more about Early Explorers through Willard Community Center, visit www.willardcommunitycenter.org or call (402) 475-0805

JoinVisionaryYouthinEmpoweringtheNext Generation at the 13th Annual Free Haircut and Backpack Event

Since 2012, Visionary Youth has been a beacon of hope for youth and families facing financial challenges as they prepare for a new school year. What started as a small event with 50 youth has now grown into a pivotal annual event serving 1,200+ young people. This year, VY expects that number to soar to nearly 1,500.

They are calling on the community to help meet the rising demand. Too many children begin the school year without the basic supplies they need to succeed - struggling with anxiety, a lack of confidence, and the stress of challenges at home. Together, we can change that.

The Visionary Youth Annual Free Haircut and Backpack Event provides a helping hand to families to provide essential needs- a fresh haircut, backpack, and school supplies along with socks, undergarments, and a gift card for a new pair of shoes, at a fun filled celebration of the potential of these amazing young people.

There are several ways you can make an impact:

• Financial Sponsorship: Every donation counts, big or small, and helps VY reach more families in need.

• Volunteer: It takes a community to make this event possible, make a difference with your time and energy.

• Spread the Word: Let others know about this lifechanging opportunity to give back.

Together, we can ensure that every child has the tools, confidence, and support they need to succeed in school and beyond. Learn more and get involved today at https://visionaryouth.org/.

TheArcofLincolnisHostingTheJourneyofHope Danceand2025DisabilityEmpowermentNight

Coming to Lincoln on July 9 is the Journey of Hope Dance! The Pi Kappa Phi Cyclists participate in the Journey of Hope which is a part of the Ability Experience where they bike a cross-country trip and spread awareness of disabilities and empowerment. Over 50 members of Pi Kappa Phi fraternities bike over 8,000 miles to serve people with disabilities and bring awareness.

The Journey of Hope Dance will be taking place at EPC 1134 Eastridge Dr. and dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m. and the dance will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Dinner will be provided by Lincoln Star City Lions Club. The cyclists have traveled from San Francisco, CA to Washington D.C.!

The Arc of Lincoln hosts these amazing young men for dinner and a DANCE!!! All are invited to come meet these Journey of Hope bikers and learn about the Ability Experience.

You can find tickets by visiting: https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/ journey-of-hope-dance--2025

The Arc of Lincoln will be hosting the 2025 Disability Empowerment Night on August 1 honoring Damian Olander, who was a lover of baseball, fireworks, and happy faces. This night of baseball and fun will take place at the Lincoln Saltdogs Stadium. The game will start at 7:05 p.m.

To ensure that everyone has an opportunity to join, only request the number of tickets you genuinely need for your family. Free tickets are only for VIP’s (individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities and their family).

You can find tickets at https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/2025disability-empowerment-night-saltdogs.

Tickets are limited so this will help accommodate as many families as possible for this wonderful event. May purchase extra tickets at a discount of $16/ticket.

For any questions, contact Becci Olander at becciolander79@gmail. com or The Arc of Lincoln at director@arclincoln.org.

Ritchie Bros Annual July Water Drive for People’s City Mission

People’s City Mission is deeply grateful for the continued generosity of Ritchie Bros. of Lincoln. For several years, they have supported their mission through their company-wide annual water drive each July, and in 2024, Ritchie Bros. donated an incredible 11 pallets of bottled water to help care for those experiencing homelessness in our community.

Bottled water is a vital resource at PCM, especially during Nebraska’s hot summer months. PCM distributes water daily through their mealsto-go program and provide it to guests staying in their shelter. With demand rising during extreme heat, donations like this are essential in keeping our neighbors safe and hydrated.

Thank you, Ritchie Bros., for your compassion and consistent support. Your ongoing commitment truly makes a difference and reminds People’s City Mission of the power of community. Together, we can offer hope, help, and relief to those who need it most.

For more information: https://pcmlincoln.org

Legacy Retirement Communities is dedicated to redefining the aging experience by creating exceptional senior living environments where every detail is thoughtfully designed with care, purpose, and heart.

First opening our door in 1995, Legacy offers a full continuum of care—including independent living, assisted living, and memory care—within state-of-the-art communities that feel like home.

Our story began with a son’s dream to create the perfect place for his mother, and that legacy continues as we enrich the lives of every resident we serve.

We’ll be celebrating 30 years of Legacy Retirement Communities this November.

What truly sets Legacy Retirement Communities apart—and has caused us to be voted “Best of Lincoln” for 26 years in a row—is the philosophy that guides every decision we make: everything must be “Good enough for Mom.” That heartfelt standard is at the core of our identity. Make sure you choose a space that is special enough for the most special person in your life.

From our intentionally designed spaces to the compassionate people who bring our communities to life, we pursue excellence in every detail. We’re not just providing a place to live—we’re creating vibrant, engaging environments where residents feel inspired, connected, and genuinely cared for.

We offer independent living for those loved ones seeking a maintenance free lifestyle, assisted living aided by licensed nurses and assistants, and memory care to work with the complexities of Alzheimer’s and dementia.

With a multitude of services and shops for residents, there is a place or person to care for everything your loved ones need. Barber shops, pub lounges, yoga classes, ice cream shops, and cozy sunrooms are included in the Legacy communities.

Legacy includes farm-to-table approach for dining services allowing the highest quality ingredients to nourish our residents for every meal of the day. We also provide work out programs focused on low impact movements, balance training, mobility increasing, or whatever goals you may have.

Beyond meeting basic needs, a thriving retirement home fosters a sense of community and belonging, encouraging mental, emotional, and physical health.

Our mission is to enrich the lives of each person in our community by continuing the Legacy and pursuit of excellence established by our founder, Jerry Joyce. We believe in improving the way we age and how we perceive aging—infusing each day with dignity, joy, and purpose.

Our philosophy is grounded in the values of family, compassion, integrity, community, and quality, with a focus on building welcoming environments that feel like home for both residents

STRICTLY BUSINESS UPCOMING EVENTS

Mark your calendars for the next Friends4Lunch! Strictly Business will be hosting the upcoming Friends4Lunch at The Talon Room at 230 N 12th St Ste. 1. This networking lunch will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, July 15. The Talon Room is expanding their service with a new Lunch Club on Tuesdays where they serve a buffet lunch in downtown Lincoln. This lunch will have a premium salad bar with a variety of dressings, proteins, and vegetables to create a salad for any taste. They also have a rotating hot portion of the buffet. They have featured BBQ brisket and ribs, a taco bar with all the fix-ins and baked chicken and braised beef in a demi glaze. Don’t miss the new buffet and the next Friends4Lunch! We can’t wait to connect with more of you!

RSVP is encouraged for these events. Please let us know by calling (402) 446-3330, or by emailing office@strictlybusinessomaha.com or marking yourself as “Going” on the Facebook event page.

FRIENDS FRIENDS FRIENDS FRIENDS

We want to thank everyone who joined us for Friends4Lunch at Salt Mine Brewing Co. We devoured delicious sandwiches, pretzels and salads on their lovely and open air patio. We shared a meal, but more importantly, we also shared a conversation over our industries and got know one another outside of the office.

Salt Mine Brewing Co. is a local brewing pub and restaurant ready for any community event, filled with a big tap list of Salt Mine brews, including IPAs, lagers and porters. There is a beer here for every drinker, whether you prefer a light golden lager or a robust full-body porter. They host many events like Bingo, Trivia Nights, comedy and live music throughout the week alongside weekly specials of burgers, fries and wraps.

If you missed this month’s Friends4Lunch, don’t worry! We host these events every month at local Lincoln restaurants to network with other Lincoln professionals during a great meal!

These gatherings are always completely free to attend. All you pay for is what you eat or drink from each special restaurant we go to! We are so fortunate to be able to do these networking events each month and can’t wait for the next one! So if you come every month, or are a first time joiner of Friends4Lunch, we invite anyone who wants to meet awesome people doing awesome things in Lincoln to our next lunch!

Folks, until next time, thank you so much for being part of these gatherings and making them very special!

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

I created Alpha Zed Business Services out of my love of process improvement, data, and making people smile. I started out offering all sorts of admin services from data entry to calendar management to custom spreadsheetshowever I could make a small business owner’s life a little easier.

I’ve settled on using systems and automation to help those owners be more efficient and confident in running their business. I help them craft a streamlined and personalized client journey, leading customers along the path from initial introduction to enthusiastic referral generation. At the center of it all is a custom CRM that captures all the data and allows for strategic automation to ensure that things aren’t falling through the cracks.

Of course, if someone just needs some project help to get over a hump, I still enjoy the occasional admin task!

I don’t provide “one-size-fits-all” solutions. I ask questions and listen to understand where there may be redundancies or inefficiencies, and help come up with a plan that works for the owner. Then, I bring it to life - basically, I’m a consultant and a builder all in one. My clients get an authentic, old-school partner who takes great pride in their success.

For those people who are just considering next steps, I’ve created a couple of free resources.

• Prepping Your Business for Automation

• Client On-boarding

Both are available on the Resources page of my website: systemssuperhero.com/Resources

My business values drive everything I do:

• Old-school: a traditional focus on hard work, integrity, quality

• Simplicity: basic, straight forward, without a lot of bells and whistles

• Curiosity: always looking for ways to make things work better - simply

• Gratitude: for the opportunity to serve, for enjoyable work, for daily blessings

• Relationships: key to success in any endeavor

My greatest joy (besides figuring out a creative solution to a client’s challenge) is hearing positive feedback from clients. Like the one who told me “I’ve said ‘WOW’ so many times today!” when we rolled out her new website.

Here are a few others that make me smile:

• “I love working with Kim because her desire to complete the task well but with heart is very visible in her demeanor.” -Kristen M.

• “I found Kim to be patient, empathic and friendly. She is an asset to any business, and I highly recommend her services!” -Marie C.

• “Kim rescued me from my own tech-hell!! I am a coach, speaker, writer, trainer, process-designer, not a web-designer, designer of automations, or systems integrator. Kim took my fledgling website and back-office and made them fly!” -Deb D.

• “I appreciate your passionate, tireless work and intense attention to detail, Kim!” -April H.

• “I worked with Kim on creating an on-boarding system via Ontraport. First of all, I adore Kim, she’s fun and friendly! Everything about this was easy, from start to finish.” -Tammy F.

Kim Hazelton, Owner

LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE full-service

by Jason Ball President

Telling Lincoln’s Compelling Story

Lincoln has a compelling story to tell; a story rooted in powerful innovation, strong collaboration and incredible vision. That’s why our team at the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce has been committed to identifying new ways to shine a light on our community, both locally and to a national audience. And today, I am proud to share the recent success of two of our key initiatives.

Recognizing the need to expand our storytelling efforts, in 2022 we launched the BusinessLNK video podcast as a new platform for conversations with the business leaders of Lincoln. And now, nearly 90 episodes later, BusinessLNK has grown into a powerful tool for spotlighting the people and businesses that are shaping our community. We are extremely proud of the evolution of BusinessLNK and were thrilled to learn the podcast earned national recognition earlier this summer with an Excellence in Communications Award from the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. This exciting honor reflects the quality of storytelling happening within our local community and we are grateful to see Lincoln stories being celebrated and shared.

While the podcast marked a significant step forward, it also opened the door to even more ambitious efforts. In 2023, the Vitality Lincoln Strategic Plan was launched as a blueprint for the economic growth of our community. One of the key pillars of Vitality Lincoln is to develop a strategy to amplify Lincoln’s story to national audience. This meant it was time to try something new - working with a national public relations agency to proactively pitch stories about the incredible things happening in Lincoln to major media outlets.

Thanks to a strategic partnership with Lancaster County, this campaign is already making an impact. Stories about our community are being included in new media markets—from coverage of the Sandhills Global Youth Complex and plans for a Downtown Lincoln convention center, to upcoming features on Gravel Worlds and more. Earlier this summer, we were excited to unite a delegation from the Lincoln Chamber and our local startup community for a media tour in New York City. This effort resulted in several great features about Lincoln, including an appearance on NASDAQ’s TradeTalks with Jill Malandrino, highlighting why Lincoln is such a dynamic place for entrepreneurs and growing businesses.

These recent successful efforts have resulted in more than just great press; they have also positioned Lincoln as a vibrant destination with a thriving business community to the rest of the country. At its core, storytelling is economic development, helping to recruit travelers, businesses and talent to our community. We are incredibly proud of the strides we are making so far - and the best part is, we are just getting started.

Visit lcoc.com/videopodcast to learn more about the incredible stories of Lincoln.

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EXCELLENCE IN DEBT RECOVERY WITH A HEART

AR Solutions is a full-service collection agency based in Nebraska, proudly serving clients across the nation. The company specializes in ethical, efficient and results-driven debt recovery services for businesses in healthcare, financial services and a variety of other industries. Backed by decades of combined experience, the AR Solutions team understands the complexities of debt collection and works diligently to recover outstanding balances while maintaining and protecting professional relationships. By managing the collections process, AR Solutions allows businesses to focus on what they do best—running their operations and serving their customers.

What distinguishes AR Solutions is its commitment to compassion and communication. The company recognizes that behind every account is a person, and every debtor is treated with dignity and respect. AR Solutions employs a balanced approach that blends advanced collection technology with a personal, empathetic touch to develop customized solutions for each client.

As a local and accessible partner, the agency provides clients with direct support and a deep understanding of their specific business environments. Unlike firms that rely on rigid scripts and impersonal tactics, AR Solutions prioritizes real and long-lasting relationships with clients and preserve the relationship of patients and customers.

AR Solutions has earned a strong reputation for its performance, with recovery rates that consistently exceed industry averages. Clients frequently note the company’s transparent communication and collaborative spirit, emphasizing that AR Solutions pursues meaningful results—not just numbers.

The company’s mission is to deliver effective, ethical, and transparent collection services that support long-term client success. Every interaction—whether with clients or debtors—is guided by professionalism, compliance, and integrity. They foster trust and accountability; AR Solutions helps organizations improve their financial outcomes and build more resilient operations.

Over the years, AR Solutions has developed lasting partnerships built on trust. Clients routinely share positive feedback, noting how the agency has helped them regain control of their accounts receivable and strengthen their bottom lines.

As one longtime healthcare partner remarked, “AR Solutions treats our patients with the same care and respect we do—it’s why we continue to rely on their expertise year after year.”

Looking to the future, AR Solutions is implementing new technology integrations that will simplify account tracking and provide even more seamless updates for clients. The team has also recently expanded, bringing in experienced professionals who align with the company’s core values of service and integrity. Whether working with a small business or a large healthcare provider, AR Solutions remains a trusted partner committed to supporting financial success—one account at a time.

Rebalancing the Scale: Fixing Nebraska’s Broken Tax Code –

Why Sales Tax Reform is a Fairer AlternativetoourObsession with Property Taxes.

Definition of Regressive- taking a proportionally greater amount from those on lower incomes. I know some of you might be thinking it, but I promise I’m not delusional about this issue. I am fully aware that we don’t have a lot of options in terms of raising revenue to fund government and thus few options to rebalance the scale. Little has changed since 1776, we can tax earnings (income taxes), consumption (sales taxes) or assets (property taxes). That’s pretty much it. Also fair to say I think there is consensus that the proverbial three-legged stool represented by those three taxes, is out of balance in Nebraska and that the latter two taxes are considered “regressive”.

But to simply lump sales taxes and property taxes in the same category of “regressive” fails to recognize the massive inherent inequity between them. Recognizing (or exposing) this inequity seems to be something no one is anxious to talk about. More on that later.

So staying with sales taxes, how are households REALLY impacted by sales taxes? Groceries are exempt from sales tax, as is gasoline in your vehicle (yes, there is a state motor fuels tax, but not a sales tax). So at least two foundational elements of running a household have no sales tax, meaning sales taxes shouldn’t be affecting a family’s ability to feed their kids or get to work or get your kids to school.

But you say, there are other costs in a household, like home energy bills, clothing, cable bills or cell phones which ARE subject to sales tax. Except for defining necessity (energy bills and clothing) vs. luxury (cable tv and cell phones) there’s not much to argue about here.

That being said, drive through nearly any parking lot in this city. You’ll see Mercedes G Wagons (as the kids call them), BMW’s, Hummers and Jeep Grand Waggoneers, all which retail for well over $100,000. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist or a Stanford MBA to understand the sales tax revenue generated by these purchases dwarf the sales tax revenue from LES bills, or Verizon, T-Mobile or Spectrum cell phones. To say nothing of sales taxes generated from high-end building materials in new homes, high end suits for $1,500, golf clubs for $2,000, a $4,000 Traeger grill from Home Depot, $5,000 for new rims and tires for a GMC Sierra pickup (yes, I priced them for my own truck).

An article published by the Nebraska Examiner in 2024 stated that since 1967, when the first statewide sales taxes were implemented over 100 exemptions have been codified into law. If we are honest with ourselves, it isn’t that these exemptions particularly made sense. They were created because one group or another had a stronger lobbying influence than another to get exemptions granted.

This has resulted in $6.5 billion left uncollected from these exemptions vs. only $2 Billion annually collected. Translation Nebraska is collecting only about 24% of the potential sales tax revenue, if all exemptions were eliminated. Is it logical that the cost of the oil and filter when you stop at Valvoline are subject to sales tax, but paying an attorney to set up a trust or prepare a will is not? Contemplate that for a moment, the sales tax exemptions benefit groups with

stronger lobbying power, not necessarily those in most need of the exemptions.

I’m not anti-attorney, or anti-accountant, I was a licensed CPA for 25+ years. But I would welcome anyone to argue that someone who can afford legal fees of $5,000 to have a trust set up, or someone whose income taxes are so complex they need a $300 per hour CPA can’t afford 7% sales tax on those services. Or a company with over $5 million in equity that is required to have an audit that costs $100,000 couldn’t afford the 7% sales tax. Seriously, please someone explain that to me.

But what’s insane in all of this is our tax rate wouldn’t have to be 7%. If we simply did what I consider to be the right thing and eliminate these special interest sales tax exemptions, the sales tax rate could be cut in half or more. And doesn’t that benefit EVERYONE?

Also note I didn’t say eliminate ALL exemptions. Nothing should ever be subject to sales tax twice (aka a tax upon a tax) commonly referred to as business inputs (something bundled with other products and sold as a single unit, subject to sales tax at the time of sale). Those business inputs should always be exempt (think farmers, manufacturers, etc..)

While reducing the overall rate wouldn’t affect the proportional impact of sales tax on lower vs. higher income households, it would favorably impact everyone. Again – EVERYONE.

Enough about sales tax, let’s talk about the most regressive tax possible, property taxes. The premise of regressive presumably ties directly to “household income”. The insidious nature of property taxes is the aspect of unrealized gains. With increasing valuations, every year, homeowners are asked to pay more in taxes without so much as a single dollar increase in economic benefit (wages, income, etc..).

As nasty and unpleasant as the IRS is, even they don’t tax unrealized gains. Though there have been proposals at the Federal level to tax unrealized gains in an investment portfolio, those proposals have largely been dead on arrival. So why do we tolerate, advocate and refuse to move away from a system that taxes unrealized gains in real estate and eschew a less regressive tax (a lesser evil) by eliminating sales tax exemptions and reducing the overall sales tax rate that everyone pays?

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 thosewhowanttohelpinfluence ourlocalgovernmentdecisions.

Camp A Way: Where Outdoor Memories Are Made

Camp A Way is proud to be a leader in outdoor hospitality in Nebraska. Since 1967, we’ve welcomed families and travelers seeking more than just a place to camp, we offer a place to connect, relax, and create lifelong memories.

Located in Lincoln, Camp A Way is a unique collaboration between Lincoln Parks and Recreation and private entrepreneurship. We’ve grown from just 35 campsites to over 100 welcoming spots for RVs, tents, and glampers alike, making room for every kind of adventurer.

Our campground is filled with fun amenities and one-ofa-kind events you won’t find anywhere else in the state. Guests of all ages love our Gem Mining, Water Wars balloon launchers, foam parties, barrel train rides, inflatable water slides, jump pads, and more! We host themed weekends throughout the year, leading up to our popular fall festivals—a seasonal favorite for families.

We’re honored to have hosted guests from all 50 states, with more out-of-state visitors arriving from California than any other state. Conveniently located halfway between Denver and Chicago, Camp A Way is both a destination and a perfect stopover, offering a family-friendly atmosphere with the convenience of nearby city attractions.

The campground is proudly operated by the Queen family, who celebrated 30 years of ownership this year. Their vision and commitment have shaped Camp A Way into a place where guests feel truly at home. Our friendly staff brings over 80 years of combined experience to ensure every camper feels welcome and cared for.

Over the years, Camp A Way has grown—but our heart has stayed the same. We’ve watched campers become lifelong friends, kids become parents bringing their own children, and traditions take root under starlit skies. Campfires have sparked first s’mores, shared stories, and generations of laughter. We believe we’re the best—but don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what our guests have to say:

“Literally the only place I want to be! Couldn’t get any better than Camp A Way! From the beautiful landscape, friendly faces, above-and-beyond amenities and activities daily—the care they give really makes it feel like Home.” Taylor Brown, May 2025

“Always a great place to camp in Lincoln. They take very good care of their facilities and property. Also, they’ve continued to add new features over the years.” — Ron V., 5-Star Review

“Wonderful workers, happy to help! Beautiful area and lots of amenities! Everything was exceptionally clean. Will definitely be back.” Deb J., 5-Star Review

As we look ahead to the next 30 years, we invite you to join the story—whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth. Come for the fun, stay for the memories, and experience the spirit of Camp A Way.

(402) 434-6900 www.downtownlincoln.org

DowntownLincolnAssociation Q&A with Brian Munk

Brian Munk has been a force behind the scenes of Downtown Lincoln, known for his kindness and tireless work effort, he is responsible for keeping our downtown clean and beautiful. His steady presence and genuine care make him essential to what keeps downtown running smoothly.

Q: How long have you been with Downtown Lincoln? What attracted you here?

A: I started in 2008, working part-time and also at Campbell’s Nursery. In 2014, I decided to go full-time at Campbell’s, but by 2017, I was back with Downtown Lincoln, and I’ve been here since then.

Q: What is your role on the DLA Maintenance Team?

A: My official title is Vice President of Operations. I facilitate ensuring the maintenance department completes everything. I dictate down the chain what needs to be done and where. It is strange for me, but I am removing myself piece by piece, little by little, from being out and doing a lot of the actual hands-on work. It is very strange, but I am getting used to it.

Q: What is something about your job most people don’t realize?

A: Managing people is a lot harder than many would understand. We have around 28 people in the crew. It is difficult to do because everyone is different. Everyone has their own personalities. It is not that we have to adhere to every single thing, but we need to all be able to work together to get along and accomplish the goal.

Q: What is your most proud accomplishment with Downtown Lincoln?

A: Oh my, there’s a ton. When I first began here, George and I, my boss, we planted over 230 trees in one year, which was the largest tree planting in the city of Lincoln since Helen Boosalis was mayor in the 80s. That was a large deal. I was very happy with it.

Getting the Downtown Lincoln area certified in the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum Network was a proud accomplishment. That was a big step we wanted to take. Building a better working relationship with the city has been wonderful. There have been times when we’ve been at odds, but working together, we get a lot of cool things done.

Lately, we have been working back and forth quite a bit on 13th Street, trying to make it more of a pollinator flyway. We need to do more work on that, but we are about halfway done.

Q: What is your favorite part of your job?

A: Being outside, within the landscape, it doesn’t matter if it’s trees or turf, or perennials or annuals. I love being out there in the element, and when I get to be out there in this green space or concrete jungle, when it is successful, that is my favorite part. When everything goes right, it is amazing for everyone. I want the crew to feel happy and rewarded because they are the folks that do the work, they are the ones who get it done.

We get feedback when people from out of town visit, whether for a football game or just to travel. Hearing them talk about how clean our city is and how nice it looks downtown is a wonderful feeling. It’s great to have your hard work recognized.

Q: If you had unlimited resources, what would your dream project downtown be?

A: I’ve been working on this a bit, but Lincoln would benefit from an irrigation system connecting the entire downtown area. We would basically be able to run it all online. With how hot and dry it is, and all the concrete we have, we need to have the proper irrigation. I’ve talked to the city already and have been working out the ideas for it, so I hope we can get it going soon. When it’s dry, it’s really dry here, and we could really benefit from it.

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 evolvedintoamulti-facetedorganization 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’usonFacebook atfacebook.com/downtownlincoln.

Crafting Aquatic Dreams in Lincoln

Here in the heart of Nebraska, Acapulco Pool & Spa LLC offers a large scale of services tailored to each client’s diverse needs. While specializing in all pool services including specialties in custom in-ground, semi in-ground, and fiberglass pools. Acapulco works closely with homeowners to bring their visions to life. Every pool is designed with precision and care, striking a perfect balance between functionality and visual appeal.

Acapulco Pool and Spa has over 30 years of experience. “Choosing Acapulco Pool & Spa means partnering with a team that values quality, expertise, and customer satisfaction above all else. Our commitment to using high-quality materials ensures longevity and minimizes future maintenance costs. For those concerned about budget, we offer flexible financing options to make your pool dreams achievable. When you choose Acapulco Pool & Spa, you’re investing in a luxurious, long-lasting addition to your home, backed by a team of dedicated professionals who treat every project as if it were their own.”

With over three decades of hands-on experience, Acapulco Pool & Spa also provides an array of services on top of making your dreams come true. “Our experienced professionals cater to pool owners in Lincoln, Omaha, and surrounding areas, providing service and maintenance plans.” Some services include remodels, pool heater installations, liner replacements, winterizing, startups, and just routine upkeep. Ensuring your pool is protected year round.

Though rooted in Lincoln, Acapulco Pool & Spa LLC proudly serves the surrounding Nebraska communities Omaha, Elkhorn, Gretna, Papillion, Fremont, Nebraska City, Beatrice,York and more. Acapulco is a local family owned business with a mission to be the best of the best of ensuring quality experience for the customers. Making sure that they provide joy, relaxation, family memories that last a lifetime.

With a proven track record and the guiding belief that “If you can dream it, we can build it,” Acapulco Pool & Spa continues to raise the bar in custom pool construction. From vinyl liners to fiberglass and concrete builds, they have the tools, talent, and experience to bring any vision to life.

Where Compassion Meets Clothing: 19 Years of Foster Care Closet Impact

The Foster Care Closet is focused on meeting the basic needs of youth in foster care. We headquarter out of Lincoln but serve the state of Nebraska. Our innovative approach in using our mobile closet to travel across the state stretching from Scottsbluff to Lincoln, Grand Island, Kearney and North Platte to Norfolk allows us to go to where the children are living and serve right in their own community. When a youth shops with us they get a full wardrobe of clothing. We’re setting them up for success right from the start. However, we don’t stop there, we continue to support our youth in care for the duration of their foster care journey. We are in the communities serving twice a year with seasonal clothing.

Foster Care Closet was founded by a former foster child. Experience is the best teacher. Understanding how a child emotionally feels during their foster care journey is something Leigh gets because she’s lived it. Being able to see how a foster youth’s basic needs are often one of the last things checked off the list and comprehending how vulnerable that child is drives the work of the Foster Care Closet. To have the honor of standing in the gap between the unknown and setting a child up for success is not one taken lightly. Believing that the child should have their voice heard in the process is another example of how the Foster Care Closet focuses on meeting the needs of the children. To give them the opportunity to pick out their own clothing, offering many different brands and styles and restoring dignity through quality fashion-forward options helps youth feel in control of their next steps as well as reassures them they will show up fitting in with their peers.

We are passionate about restoring dignity to youth in crisis. We focus on providing an environment that is organized, clean and spacious for our families to feel welcomed and comfortable shopping in. We serve only youth in care and we do so through private shopping events. We pull together as a team, each valuing the many gifts and talents of others. We take responsibility in the quality of our service from interacting with our youth and families as well as making sure we have fashion-forward clothing with several options available to choose from. We believe that dignity is a core value that everyone should be treated with and reminded they have.

The Foster Care Closet is in year 19 of serving Nebraska’s foster youth. Each year we have spent time learning from past mistakes and honing in on what we are best at: Understanding the foster care community and how best to serve them with excellence. Like any business, there have been growth periods and opportunities to take a breath instead of a leap. I also believe that when you surround yourself with like-minded people who get to see you at your worst they cheer you on and push you to become your best. So in the end, growing a business is about so much more than numbers, it is about the immeasurable.

For more information visit fostercarecloset.org

Revitalize Your Confidence

Whether you're considering reconstructive surgery after cancer or injury or seeking aesthetic enhancements, Dr. Kolegraff provides expert, compassionate care.

Start your transformation today—virtual and in-person consultations available!

katnissclinic.janeapp.com

Katniss Clinic

Enhance Your Natural Look with Dr. Keli Kolegraff

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon in Lincoln, NE

Discover personalized solutions for health and beauty. From cosmetic surgery to plastic surgery reconstruction after cancer or injury, Dr. Kolegraff offers expert care tailored to your goals.

Services include:

Breast Reconstruction and Revisions after Breast Cancer

Breast Surgery including Breast Reductions, Lifts (Maxtopexy), and Implants

Tummy Tucks (Abdominoplasty)

Skin & Mole Lesion Removal

Scar Revision & More

Schedule your consultation today!

drkeli@katnissclinic.com | katnissclinic.janeapp.com

MEN’S HEALTH

Men’s Health is a dynamic issue that encapsulates being physically, emotionally and mentally well. While living in such a fast paced world it can be hard to prioritize health and wellness. Demanding jobs, family life and social obligations and outings can make people forget to check in on themselves. However, living life to its fullest means protecting and nurturing your overall well-being. Being healthy isn’t about being physically strong. It’s about prioritizing physical health, but also mental and emotional wellbeing to be the best version of you that you can be! These businesses offer sage advice on how to kick start your journey to a healthier overall lifestyle!

How to Live a Healthy Lifestyle with Aspire Wellness

At Aspire Wellness, the mission is to help all people achieve better quality of life through integral chiropractic care and functional medicine. Weston Pickhinke provides gentle, effective chiropractic care for individuals and families, while Amelia Pickhinke offers personalized functional medicine nutrition support. She empowers clients with realistic strategies that fit their unique lives, helping them move toward lasting wellness through a natural and holistic approach. In this section, Amelia shares how men can overcome common obstacles to their health and start making choices that support long-term vitality.

“I’m only 35… I’ve got decades before I need to worry about my health.”

This line of thinking couldn’t be further from the truth. Your twenties and thirties aren’t a free pass. They are your foundational years. Think of it like building a house. You wouldn’t skip laying a solid foundation and expect the structure to hold up decades later,

HEALTH

right? The reality is that the choices you make in your 20’s and 30’s determine whether you’ll be the 65-year-old who’s hiking mountains with his grandkids or the one struggling to climb a flight of stairs. Your metabolism, muscle mass, hormone production, and cardiovascular health are all either building up or breaking down based on what you do today.

To assess your health, start with these key assessments:

Grip Strength Testing: This might sound random, but grip strength is one of the most reliable predictors of overall health and longevity. It’s a window into your muscle mass, nervous system function, and even cardiovascular health. If your grip is weakening, it’s often an early warning sign that other systems are declining too.

Comprehensive Hormone Panel: Testosterone isn’t just about libido. It affects your energy, muscle mass, mood, cognitive function, and bone density. Many men start experiencing declining testosterone in their thirties, but they chalk up fatigue and brain fog to “getting older” instead of addressing the root cause.

Advanced Lipid Profile: Forget the basic cholesterol test your doctor runs. You need particle size analysis, inflammatory markers, and a complete picture of your cardiovascular risk. Heart disease is still the number one killer of men, and it’s largely preventable with early detection and intervention.

Comprehensive Blood Sugar Assessment: Pre-diabetes and insulin resistance can lurk for years before showing up on standard tests. By the time your fasting glucose is elevated, you’ve already lost significant metabolic flexibility. Advanced testing can catch these issues when they’re still reversible.

Functional Movement Assessment: Your body is your vehicle for life. If your spine, joints, and nervous system aren’t functioning optimally, everything else suffers. Regular chiropractic care isn’t just about fixing pain. It’s about maintaining the communication highway between your brain and body.

Fuel Your Body Like the Machine It Is Your body in your 30’s isn’t the same as it was at 20. You can’t get away with the late-night pizza and energy drinks anymore. Prioritize organic, nutrient-dense foods that support hormone production and reduce inflammation. Aim for a palm-sized portion of high-quality

•

• Employees will have access to doctor 24/7

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• Individual and Family Plans Available Dr. Todd Johnson Krystal Jackson, PA-C Teresa Novak, PA-C (402) 858-1510

protein at every meal, because your muscles, brain, and hormones depend on it. Fill half your plate with colorful vegetables and fruits. The antioxidants, phytonutrients, and fiber support everything from testosterone production to brain health to gut function.

Listen to Your Body’s Warning Signals

Men are notorious for pushing through pain and ignoring symptoms. That occasional back pain, those moments of brain fog, the energy crash at 3 PM, these aren’t normal parts of aging. They’re your body’s check engine light. Don’t be the guy who ignores chest pain until he’s having a heart attack or dismisses memory issues until they’ve progressed to something serious. Your body is constantly communicating with you. The question is: are you listening?

Find

Movement You Enjoy

If you have sore joints, Tai Chi is a great option. Go for walks after dinner. Find a gym you enjoy. Take advantage of Lincoln’s trails and go for a walk over lunch or a run on the weekend. Not only does exercise improve your mood, but it stimulates BDNF, something that literally tells your body to grow new stem cells and create new brain connections.

The bottom line: Your health in your 70s is determined by the choices you make in your thirties. Don’t wait for symptoms to force your hand. Take control now, and your future self will thank you.

Learn About Your Pelvic Health with Husker Rehab

When it comes to being physically healthy, society tells men to focus on their outer appearance. Men are told the measure their health by their physical strength. This rhetoric makes it hard for men to actually get to know the different parts of their body. Husker Rehab encourages men to prioritize their pelvic health.

A common misconception about male pelvic physical therapy is that it’s only for women or for men with prostate issues. In reality, pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) can benefit a wide range of male patients and address numerous conditions including urinary issues, constipation, pelvic pain and abdominal pain.

Prioritizing pelvic health is essential for men’s overall well-being, yet it’s often overlooked. The pelvic floor supports the bladder, bowel, and (in men) prostate function, and plays a key role in urinary control, sexual health, and core stability.

Men can exercise their pelvic floor muscles by doing pelvic floor exercises or Male Kegels. Kegels consist of tightening the pelvic floor muscles for 3 seconds and then relaxing the muscles for 3 seconds. Experts suggest doing these in the morning then again at night. Try incorporating this into your daily routine. Even doing a few Kegels during a commercial break can support your overall health.

Another aspect of prioritizing health is to stay educated. Take a class on how to strengthen the pelvic floor. Speak with a nutritionist to ensure you are getting all the nutrients needed to maintain a healthy weight and to avoid constipation. Address urinary or bowel issues with your doctor early to avoid future complications.

The health choices men make now will impact the next phase of their life. Physical movement is extremely important. Prolonged sitting can lead to tight muscles and serious health risks like heart disease, type 2 diabetes and musculoskeletal issues. It can also have a negative impact of mental health, like anxiety, depression and even dementia. Taking frequent break, going for short walks, or just standing up to stretch can help lessen these risks.

When it comes to exercise, avoid heavy lifting with a poor technique. Not only can this lead to injuries and muscle strains, but it could also lead to herniated discs and abdominal hernias.

Living a healthy lifestyle is all about doing things with intention. Take time to learn about your body and focus on things you wouldn’t have before. Living a healthy lifestyle means living a sustainable one. Make Time to Heal with MY Wellness Center

At MY Wellness Center they believe healing doesn’t have to be

complicated. That’s why they designed their spa to feel calm approachable and free of pressure. They encourage men to take the same approach when dealing with their health and healing journey. One of the main misconceptions about men’s health is that seeking help or taking time for self-care is a sign of weakness. Many men feel they must “tough it out” or wait until something is seriously wrong before addressing their health.

At MY Wellness Center, they believe that true strength comes from prevention and proactive care. Technologies like the Energy Enhancement System™ allow men to support their overall wellbeing by optimizing energy, reducing inflammation, improving sleep, and supporting mental clarity—without invasive procedures or medications. It is time to shift the narrative: investing in your health is an act of strength, not vulnerability.

Prioritizing wellness begins with intentional, consistent actions. For men, this means making their health a non-negotiable part of their lifestyle—physically, mentally, and energetically. This could be as simple as setting boundaries to allow for rest, committing to regular exercise, eating mindfully, or incorporating restorative technologies like the EESystem™ into their weekly routine. At MY Wellness Center, they encourage men to view wellness as a long-term investment, not just a reaction to illness. The EESystem™ helps create an ideal environment for the body to recharge, repair, and restore—making it easier for men to stay balanced in a fast-paced world.

The most important thing is to listen to your body. Prevention is always more powerful than treatment. Make time for regular check-ins—not only with your doctor but with yourself. Are you sleeping well? Are you energized? How is your stress level? Tools like the EESystem™ offer men a unique way to recalibrate their bodies on a cellular level, supporting natural healing and energy production.

MY Wellness Center recommends integrating EESystem™ sessions into a well-rounded routine that includes movement, hydration, stress management, and community support. Wellness is not a one-time decision; it is a lifestyle. Take the first step today and let MY Wellness Center help guide the way!

Take Action over your Health with A Well

Being

According to the CDC men are less likely to see a physician regularly than women. Men prioritize work, family, and hobbies, but forget to care for themselves. However, men shouldn’t be afraid to admit that they might need help. It’s scary to admit something may be wrong, but it’s the first step in getting your health back on track.

Earlier intervention fosters more effective treatment. This sentiment holds true for both acute and chronic illnesses and medical conditions. A primary care physician is typically the ‘case manager’ of your health, but you don’t have to go to the doctor’s office first.

In the state of Nebraska, you can see a physical therapist with a physician referral. They will still coordinate care together; you just save yourself some time and money.

Remember, patients have the autonomy to choose their medical providers. An integrative health squad ensures every component of wellness is addressed. Find communicative providers that will collaborate with your entire team.

Health illiteracy is widespread. People don’t always know what signs and symptoms are concerning enough to call the physician. Use reliable medical resources such as Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic, whose online resources are vast. However, don’t mistake your Google search for a board certified clinician’s medical degree though.

Learn the difference between urgency and an emergency. Learn the red flags for common conditions that affect adults: stroke, heart attack, blood glucose issues, and urinary tract infections. Know your personal and family health history to craft more precision in knowing your risks.

Your specialists do not always coordinate information with your primary physician so it’s crucial to have easy access to a copy of your current medications. This includes supplements and over the counter drugs, allergies, medical diagnoses, recent procedures, and

emergency contacts. Always participate in annual health screens. These visits are often covered by insurance.

You fill your car with gas, change the oil, and vacuum the interior. Don’t treat your car better than your body. Schedule your annual physical, recommended cancer screens, audiology assessment, dental check, optometry appointment, and comprehensive balance assessment. Invest in wellness so you don’t have to pay for illness.

Revival Pharms: Transforming Men’s Health through Education

Revival Pharms is revolutionizing men’s health by empowering individuals with research-backed, natural wellness solutions. As a leading wellness educator, Revival Pharms believes that optimal health is accessible to all through education, informed decisionmaking, and a return to time-tested, natural remedies. By equipping men with the knowledge to take control of their health, Revival Pharms is redefining the path to vitality and well-being.

At the core of Revival Pharms’ mission is the commitment to restoring “manliness” through health education. Men’s wellness extends beyond quick-fix solutions like testosterone therapy, which is often overprescribed. Revival Pharms educates men on the critical role of diet, lifestyle, and weight management in maintaining balanced hormone levels and overall health.

Research shows that conditions like obesity and type II diabetes—key contributors to low testosterone—can often be addressed through sustainable lifestyle changes, reducing the need for pharmaceutical interventions.

Revival Pharms goes beyond traditional healthcare by fostering a supportive wellness community. Through expert-led guidance and evidence-based resources, men are empowered to advocate for their health, make informed choices, and avoid unnecessary procedures like PSA tests that may carry risks. By prioritizing education, Revival Pharms helps men reverse conditions like type II diabetes and achieve hormonal balance naturally, paving the way for lasting vitality.

Men’s Health isn’t a linear journey, but it’s vital to prioritize and take control of your health. Taking care of your well-being is important to live a healthy and happy life. Staying physically active is key, but it doesn’t have to be boring. If you’re not interested in weight lifting at the gym, that’s okay! Get creative! Grab a friend and play a round of pickle ball or step outside your comfort zone and try something different like yoga. Make your physical activity about having fun.

When it comes to protecting your overall well-being, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Stay in tune with your body and mind. Connect with a trusted therapist to talk things through. Book an appointment immediately when you feel something is wrong. Doing these things early on can prevent worsening physical or mental conditions.

Look Good and Feel Good After a Visit with Katniss Clinic

Plastic surgery and other “cosmetic” treatments have traditionally been marketed towards women but men also have options beyond the gym and the barber shop in order to look good, feel good, and age gracefully. Most importantly, this can be done in a discrete manner to create meaningful, but natural-appearing results. Dr. Keli Kolegraff offers a variety of options for everyone to look and feel their best. In this section, Dr. Kolegraff shares how men can take control of their cosmetic wellness.

Men are becoming more aware of their options to enhance their life and overall health. Beyond diet and exercise, they are beginning to realize that other factors, including hormone balance, sleep, and self-esteem can significantly impact their quality of life. Sometimes, these treatments may be covered by their health insurance plan depending on the medical necessity. Many men are self-conscious about “man boobs” (gynecomastia), “double chin”, or “love handles” and may not realize that there are straightforward methods to treat these conditions.

Botox or similar can be used to soften frown lines and other wrinkles that make them look or even feel “mad” all the time. Botox can even be used to treat excessive sweating of the axilla (armpits), hands, or other parts of the body.

Microneedling is an amazingly useful treatment for acne scars and other skin issues. Filler and other techniques also allow us to enhance masculine features, such as accentuating a masculine jawline or overall facial structure.

It’s crucial to learn as much as you can about the options available to you and find a trusted health care provider that is invested in you and your results.

In today’s fast-paced world, it can be hard to prioritize health and wellness. However, what you do now affects the next 10 or even 20 years of your life. Now is the time to be intentional about your health and wellness. These businesses can help you on your wellbeing journey.

Men’s health often takes a back seat until the engine starts sputtering, but your body is talking long before the check engine light blinks on. Listening to your body isn’t weakness; its wisdom and strength. That nagging fatigue, the ache that won’t quit, the mood swings you chalk up to stress, those are not just background noise. They’re your body’s version of an alarm or check engine light flickering on.

Listening and noticing small changes in your mind or body early on can prevent small issues from becoming big problems. After all, you wouldn’t ignore a strange sound in your car for months, so why do it with your most valuable machine?

Fortunately, you don’t have to decode every signal alone. Health professionals and wellness-focused businesses are there to help you interpret what your body’s trying to say. If it’s through regular checkups, education about your health and body, or mental health support, let Lincoln businesses and health professionals keep your body and mind in tip-top shape so you can be there for everyone and everything you want.

Your Foundation Starts Here

Underfoot Flooring Solutions has been a trusted name in Lincoln, Nebraska, for over 15 years, helping homeowners and businesses transform their spaces from the ground up. Locally owned and operated, Underfoot Flooring specializes in high-quality flooring solutions, including carpet, hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, tile, and more. Whether you’re building new, remodeling, or just refreshing a space, Underfoot Flooring offers products and expertise that are both stylish and built to last.

The company works with some of the top flooring manufacturers in the industry, providing a wide selection of materials to suit every aesthetic and budget. With a focus on personalized service, the Underfoot Flooring team works one-on-one with customers, from consultation through installation, to ensure every detail is covered. Their showroom, located right in Lincoln, gives customers the opportunity to see, touch, and compare flooring options while getting advice from knowledgeable staff.

What makes Underfoot Flooring stand out from other flooring providers is their commitment to craftsmanship, customer relationships, and community roots. Unlike national chains, Underfoot is invested in Lincoln, not just as a market, but as a hometown. They’ve built their business through word-of-mouth, referrals, and repeat clients who appreciate the team’s honest recommendations and attention to detail. As a family-run business, they value relationships and transparency.

Underfoot Flooring’s business philosophy centers around quality, integrity, and service. Every project is treated with care, whether it’s a single room or an entire commercial space. Their mission is to help customers create floors that not only look beautiful but also perform well for years to come.

The company continues to grow while staying focused on innovation and customer satisfaction. Recently, Underfoot has expanded its product lines to include more eco-friendly and pet-proof options, reflecting the evolving needs of modern households. They also offer installation services from trusted local professionals who understand the high standards Underfoot sets for every project.

Clients consistently speak to the company’s professionalism, timeliness, and transparent pricing. One online review shares, “Underfoot was easy to work with, knowledgeable, and made our entire renovation experience better. Our floors look amazing—we couldn’t be happier!”

In addition to residential flooring, Underfoot has worked on a variety of commercial projects around Lincoln and surrounding areas, including offices, rental properties, and retail spaces. They’re also active participants in local home shows and community events, where they enjoy connecting directly with customers and other small businesses.

From small projects to large renovations, Underfoot Flooring brings experience, style, and exceptional service under one roof. If you’re planning your next flooring upgrade, there’s no better place to start than right underfoot.

To learn more or schedule a consultation, visit www.underfootlincoln. com or stop by their showroom at 5600 N 58th Court Suite 3B, Lincoln, NE 68507

RESIDENTIAL REMODELING

Nobody likes to move houses and many people simply don’t want to. Great neighbors and a good and safe location are hard to come by sometimes. However you feel about moving, there’s little you can do about outgrowing your space.

Remodeling and updating your home is important not only for maintaining its value but also for enhancing your everyday comfort and functionality. Over time, styles change, materials wear down, and your lifestyle evolves, whether it is a new baby or new pet—remodeling allows your home to grow with you. If it’s updating flooring, refreshing outdated spaces, or improving layout and usability, these changes can make your home more enjoyable, energy-efficient, and aligned with your current needs. Even small updates can breathe new life into a space, making it feel fresh, modern, and uniquely yours. So, how can you get a new space and fresh start without moving houses? You don’t have to risk a DIY disaster to save a couple bucks, Many businesses in Lincoln are here to revive your living space and help you avoid the hassle of moving.

Reign in Your Yard: Empire Fence Leads the Remodel Revolution

customers.

If you know exactly what you want for a design or just know you need a fence, Empire will help you through the whole process of selection to installation and upkeep with their workmanship one-year guarantee. They have every style you could imagine for your home. Chain link and aluminum to vinyl and classic wood, they’ve got a style for any home or budget.

With simple and quick estimates, it’s easy to pick Empire Fence for all your fencing, landscaping and gate needs. Quick and reliable estimates are available online through a couple taps on your phone or Empire Fence will send out a fence expert to evaluate your property. You’ll know exactly what to expect with transparent pricing and quick installation.

A good fence does more than just mark where your yard ends—it guarantees some privacy, security, and even a little peace of mind. Whether you’re keeping kids and pets safely in, curious neighbors out, or just defining your little slice of heaven in the neighborhood, a quality fence is like the unsung hero of homeownership. It adds curb appeal, increases property value, and lets you enjoy your outdoor space without feeling like you’re on display.

Add some finishing (or starting) touches to the edge of your property to take your comfort and privacy to the next level for summer parties and simply hanging outside on a warm night. Remodeling starts at the fence with Empire Fence.

Remy Refinishing: From Worn to Wow

Remy Refinishing breathes new life into worn, outdated spaces— transforming cabinets, doors, trim, and other surfaces with expert craftsmanship and high-quality finishes. Whether you’re looking to modernize your kitchen, revive tired woodwork, or simply update your home’s look without the mess and cost of full replacement, Remy’s

Willet Construction provides excellent service for interior and exterior residential projects. Contact us to find out why we have had over 500 repeat customers in the last 10 years.

402-434-8008 www.willetconstruction.com

refinishing services offer a smart, stylish solution.

The right kitchen paint can completely transform the heart of your home, making it one of the most impactful and cost-effective elements in any remodeling project. Whether you’re aiming for a fresh, modern look or a warm, inviting feel, the color you choose sets the tone for the entire space. A well-chosen paint color can brighten up a small kitchen, complement new cabinets and countertops, and even increase the perceived value of your home.

They guarantee perfect looking cabinets, fireplace mantels, front doors and staircases for a lifetime. With lifetime touch-ups and even a small amount of paint left just for you, Remy has got you covered. Remy works with a team of carpenters, interior designers and countertop installers to make sure you get your current kitchen remodeled to fit any phase of life you are in.

Some of the most popular interior remodeling trends for 2025 are soft minimalistic, contemporary mixed with natural elements, dark and moody colors and neutral palettes with pops of color.

Summer is a popular time to remodel your home, so get ahead of the crowd and book an estimate with Remy Refinishing today! It’s a simple update with powerful results made even simpler with Remy.

Refresh the room where everyone gathers, cooks, and creates memories.

Lighting the Way: How ABC Electric Sparks Smarter Remodeling

Proper electrical work is essential to the safety, functionality, and long-term value of any home and is definitely something you shouldn’t DIY. ABC Electric understands this more than anyone. With decades of experience in the industry, ABC Electric can provide you with comprehensive electrical services for your home.

ABC provides 24/7 electrical support and assistance so when the worst happens at 3 a.m., ABC will be at their best to help you with their emergency call-out service. They handle big problems like power outages and small problems like lights being too bright or your electric bill being oddly high.

Well-planned electrical layouts support modern living— accommodating everything from smart home devices to highefficiency appliances.

Since 1932, ABC has a time-tested reputation with thousands of satisfied clients, along with 75% of their business being through repeat customers. With no incentives to upsell or commissions, fair pricing is guaranteed to fit any budget.

Experienced estimators and technicians complete a wide variety of projects including trouble-shooting existing electrical issues, electrical assessment of your existing electrical service to verify if it will meet the customers’ needs of the future, installation of electrical vehicle charging equipment, renewable energy solar options, and emergency generator backup. ABC Electric has built a business model of employing technicians with experience and knowledge using a database to meet the needs of our customers.

Investing in quality electrical work today helps prevent costly repairs down the road and gives you peace of mind knowing your home is powered safely and your family is protected.

Icon Plumbing: A Trusted Partner in Modern Home Renovations

Your home’s plumbing isn’t something you think of unless you’re standing in a puddle of water or in the shower with soaped-up hair but no water to rinse with.

Whether you’re updating a kitchen, bathroom, or the entire home, expert plumbing services are crucial to ensuring everything flows smoothly, literally and figuratively, so before you pick out that perfect faucet or spa-worthy shower, contact Icon Plumbing to assist with all your water needs.

Plumbing and drainage services can be confusing and complicated

for the average home owner. The consequence of work being done wrong can be wet, gross and costly to fix. Icon Plumbing takes the hassle out plumbing issues and makes sure water comes and goes as it should.

With advanced equipment and years of experience, Icon provides customers with top-notch service and experienced professionals you will be happy to invite into your home. Plumbing is a lot more than just pipes. Its water heaters, water quality, sewage systems, leak detection, and comprehensive plumbing systems that are adaptable to any improvement you make to your home.

Icon will be there for you and your home during every stage your home goes through and every improvement you decide to make. You’ve worked hard for your home, so protect it through every transition with the help of Icon Plumbing.

Nailing It Every Time: Remodeling Magic with Willet Construction

From the unused and dusty attic space to the heart of your home— the kitchen—Willet Construction is dedicated to make every piece of your home feel like you. Leave no space or room out of the loop with Willet’s comprehensive construction and remodeling services.

From design inception (using three-dimensional rendering and viewing technology) to the final product, the team of experts will work closely with you to make sure your dream space is made a reality. Their team can guarantee peace of mind with sticking to budget and open communication on your project and their design and construction process.

You can grow with your living space with new additions of bathrooms, bedrooms and garages. So if it is a new car or a new baby, Willet will help you stay in your current space while updating and adapting it for you and your family’s future.

Hop on the timeless trends of open concept spaces, a spa-like oasis of a bathroom and an outdoor living expansion this summer and get ready to host and live in ultimate comfort.

Never move again with a full-home remodel made possible by Willet Construction. Will you love it or will you really love it?

Liberty Edge: Freedom to Define Your Landscape

Summer is the time of the year to enjoy your outdoor spaces, but all of this enjoyment comes with a long list of landscaping maintenance and work. Liberty Edge can help make your yard work easier so you can spend more time enjoying the yard rather than stressing. Keep your yard in place while minimizing the amount of overgrowth of flower beds or the grass in your lawn.

Liberty Edge will help you define all parts of your yard and outdoor oasis with a variety of stones, colors, patterns and textures to align to your design goals. With specialized concrete mixtures, the materials the expert team uses to edge your yard is meant to last. Cable reinforcements and admixtures set Liberty Edge’s materials apart from plastic or brick paving materials that can crack and move.

Liberty Edge is so much more than just a concrete or stone company, they are there to define all landscaping visions and flower beds. Their goals are to enhance your life with the same freedom and satisfaction that inspired the team to start the company.

Create the outdoor space you dream of with defined walkways, tree rings, and keep your yard where it should be. Add the thing you yard is missing with attractive landscaping solutions and have total satisfaction of your summer outdoor oasis.

Yankee Hill Brick: Timeless Beauty, One Brick at a Time

Yankee Hill Brick can handle anything from big construction projects for schools or other public buildings to small residential products and should be your go-to for any brick construction needs. From custom shapes for a tricky project to blended brick colors for a very specific

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vision, Yankee Hill provides exceptional customer service and products to people all across the United States and Canada.

There is a reason they have been one of the top manufacturers and suppliers of clay and specialty bricks for 144 years. The principles of brick making and forming have been the same for thousands of years and were used by some of the earliest civilizations. The process and efficiency of brick making have excelled and Yankee Hill has excelled alongside.

Yankee Hill Brick also provides bricks for customers from Pacific Clay Product Inc. as well as in-house made products from Yankee Hill manufacturers and local mining sites.

Yankee bricks are made with sustainably sourced natural raw ingredients, using materials that are classified as Certified LEED green products and they produce very little waste while recycling bricks as well.

Residential bricking styles will never go out of style and will always be reliable and durable for your dream home. With dozens of modular residential colors and mixes, there is always an option at Yankee Hill for your design and renovation goals.

Overhead Door: Upgrade Your Home, Starting with the Door That Does It All

Your garage door is an overlooked part of your home, as long as it opens and closes, it might not be something to think twice about. But, if you are pondering renovating your home, don’t leave your garage door behind and forget about it.

Overhead Door can handle all the design and functionality you want in a garage door. Let the last thing you see when leaving your home or coming back home after a long day at work not an eyesore, but a garage door fitting your style and dream home. The functionality and reliability of your garage door is something you can always count on cause with Overhead Door products, your day goes a little smoother.

• Enhance the look and value of your home

• Choose from a variety of styles, patterns and colors

• Will not crack like plastic, rust like metal or shift and move like pavers and rocks

Defining Boundaries Redefining Style

Since 1921, Overhead Door has been an industry leader and innovator in repairing and constructing garage doors and the accompanying accessories. With a team of highly trained and knowledgeable professionals, they have installed hundreds of residential and commercial doors over the years.

They can provide a garage door solution to any problem that will fit any lifestyle. Whether you need a thermal efficient garage door— making your man cave insulated—or are looking for a fitting style for your other renovations, Overhead has over a dozen residential garage door options to choose from.

They offer on-site or phone consultation for replacements or repairs, keypad installation and assistance and warranty and maintenance service.

A well-designed, dependable garage door is like the cherry on top of your home—making a strong first impression while keeping everything inside safe and sound.

Hunt Irrigation: Transforming Landscapes Starts Below the Surface

A well-designed yard can be beautiful but not if it dead brown grass. You work hard for your home and it’s landscaping so let Hunt Irrigation handle the watering.

Watering your yard isn’t just about turning on the hose—its about timing, technique, and knowing when enough is enough. Overwater, and you’re drowning your grass; underwater, and it’s a crispy lawn funeral—balance is the secret to a lush, envy-worthy yard.

Over half of the water used for domestic purposes is used to water and care for landscapes and lawns. That is a lot of water usage at stake and you should aim to water correctly and efficiently.

Hunt Irrigation Water Smart Design has been their go-to installation model for efficient watering and water usage. They have been using this model for installation for years to save water and money. With an underground system, Hunt will maintain, design and install a watering system fitting to your landscape and needs.

The Hunt team will teach you how to use your new system to peak efficiency with watering schedules based on the season to guarantee you won’t waste a drop.

Landscaping renovations are not complete without a Hunt Irrigation system. Whether you’re in the market for a new system or would like to update and adapt an old system to fit your current landscape, Hunt has got your yard’s back.

Bridgewater Consulting: Making your home remodel design easy and stress-free

Sometimes the best way to improve your current dream home is to simply add some additional room, or even remodel your interiors as an easy way to help you get a new feel out of an old space. However, renovation projects are a big investment and almost always have unexpected challenges that many people don’t expect. But for over 10 years, Eastern Nebraska homeowners have been choosing Bridgewater Consulting to design their home remodels, and recommending Bridgewater through word of mouth after being pleased with their results.

Brayden McLaughlin, owner and CEO of Bridgewater explains why: “Our team is able to help you visualize your addition or remodel by creating a detailed 3D model to help homeowners view and walk through the space”, he says.

“But not only that, we have years of experience anticipating potential construction snags that a less experienced design firm would never think to look for, making design suggestions that have saved our clients a lot of money.”

Whether it’s a kitchen remodel, basement finish, or master bath; Bridgewater will help you creatively update your home. With their 3D model walk-throughs and design renders, clients can see their current home transformed into their ideal space before the first

Underfoot Flooring Solutions: Grounded in Comfort: Flooring Solutions That Feel

Like Home

Underfoot Flooring Solutions can help you breathe new life into your home. Underfoot Flooring offers a truly tailored experience—from in-home consultations to professional installation. Rather than a onesize-fits-all approach, we take the time to understand each customer’s vision then provide customized flooring solutions that align perfectly. Our team manages everything from material selection to final installation, ensuring a smooth, hassle-free remodeling process. You can choose from a wide variety of flooring materials—including luxury vinyl planks and tile, sheet vinyl, carpet, and tile—all while matching to your overall home aesthetic.

With expert advice, Underfoot Flooring Solutions can help you choose the right flooring. If you have unruly toddler, a lovable but dirty dog or just need long lasting flooring, they can help you pick out the right flooring based on your lifestyle, budget, and design goals.

Underfoot Flooring Solutions will also do their best to not interrupt your fast moving and sometimes hectic lifestyle. They ensure professional, timely, and high-quality installation and offer longlasting and low-maintenance options that improve home livability.

Cushioned flooring, anti-slip options, pet-friendly materials and beginning-to-end service, whatever you need, Underfoot can help you avoid the hassle of moving and improve your current space to make future memories.

As a locally rooted company, Underfoot Flooring prides itself on delivering the kind of quality and service national chains often can’t match. We focus on premium craftsmanship, use trusted brands and materials, and stand behind our work. Our strong relationships with local suppliers and installers mean better responsiveness, faster turnaround times, and a commitment to excellence that reflects in every project.

Let Underfoot Flooring Solutions make your current home your dream home with customizable flooring solutions for whatever you desire under your feet.

With businesses for electric, flooring, landscaping, fencing and interior remodeling, breaking the bank isn’t necessary to love your space. Many people don’t want to move to a different home, you don’t have to leave your beloved neighbors behind or leave the neighborhood with your child’s school in it.

DIY sounds fun—until you realize your “quick weekend project” now involves YouTube tutorials, four trips to the hardware store, and a mysterious hole in your wall that wasn’t there yesterday. One minute you’re confidently holding a power drill, the next you’re Googling “how to shut off the water main” while ankle-deep in a puddle that used to be your bathroom floor. Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is put down the hammer and call a professional—preferably one who knows which end of the tape measure to use.

Don’t end up in a DIY disaster; let the Lincoln professionals of residential remodeling and maintenance companies help you evolve your home to fit your ever-changing life.

Strictly Business is passionate about connecting businesses to one another and connecting individuals to teams of business professionals. Summer is here and if it is a new patio or landscaping needs let our website be the one-stop-shop for all your remodeling and construction needs.

Enjoy the summer to its fullest with a home and yard that fits every summer shindig and event and enjoy the improvements into the holiday season with long lasting improvements and maintenance support.

Fall in love with your home all over again this summer!

SUPPORTING NONPROFITS

Strictly Business is honored to be featuring our amazing Lincoln non-profit organizations this month! Nonprofits play a vital role in strengthening communities by addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges that often go unmet. They provide essential services such as food assistance, housing support, education programs, and mental health care, often serving vulnerable or underserved populations. Beyond direct aid, nonprofits foster community engagement, volunteerism, and advocacy, empowering individuals to participate in creating positive change.

There are so many ways individuals can support Lincoln’s local non-profits. From volunteering and making monetary donations to talking to friends or families about nonprofits, community support and awareness is the key to achieve each non-profits goal. Businesses can also support nonprofits in meaningful ways that strengthen both the community and their own brand. Through financial contributions, sponsorships, or donations, companies can help nonprofits

expand their reach and impact. Many businesses also encourage employee volunteerism or offer matching gift programs, fostering a culture of social responsibility.

Supporting nonprofits is more than a generous act; it’s a powerful act of compassion and hope. Every donation, every volunteer hour, and every shared resource can change a life, uplift a struggling family, or offer comfort to someone in crisis.

Nonprofits are often the quiet heroes, stepping in when no one else can, offering food to the hungry, shelter to the homeless, or a safe space to the vulnerable. When you support a nonprofit, you’re not just giving money or time—you’re giving dignity, opportunity, and a chance at a better future. In a world that can feel divided or overwhelming, that kind of impact is deeply human—and truly priceless.

Let Strictly Business open your eyes to the amazing work of Lincoln non-profits and get involved with one near and dear to your heart today!

CBMC Lincoln (Christian Business Men’s Connection) is part of a global community of Christian men who are serious about growing in their faith while making an impact at work and in life. Whether you’re just starting out in your career or building something big, CBMC is here to help you grow personally, professionally, and spiritually.

We get it, faith and work can feel like two separate worlds. CBMC helps bring them together. Through one-onone mentoring, small group meetups, leadership training, and events throughout the year, you’ll find the tools, support, and real connections you need to live out your faith in everyday life. For business owners and leaders, CBMC provides Peer Advisory Groups designed to equip them to run their businesses in a Christ-honoring way that also benefits their staff, customers and communities.

For younger guys in the workforce, Young Professionals (YP) groups are a great place to meet other like-minded men, hear from experienced leaders, and get practical wisdom for work, life, and relationships.

When you plug into CBMC, you’re not just showing up, you’re joining a solid crew of men who are honest, encouraging, and committed to growing together.

Want to learn more?

Contact CBMC Lincoln at (402) 204-1997, look them up on Facebook or LinkedIn or visit lincoln.cbmc.com.

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

Angels Among Us provides financial and emotional support to families whose children are battling pediatric cancer. Any family living in or being treated in Nebraska is eligible to apply. Once approved, families qualify for levels of $550 or $825 a month, depending on household income, for the duration of their critical treatment plan. Funds are paid directly to the creditor, which ensures funds are used for their intended purpose. AAU is the only organization providing long-term sustained funding to pediatric cancer families in the region.

In addition to financial support, Angels Among Us launched emotional support programming in 2022 to provide wrap-around services for all members of the pediatric cancer family. Programs include Kids Link, Women’s Recharge, Healing Hearts, and events for the whole family. These emotional support programs allow Angels Among Us to better fulfill its mission of both financial and emotional support.

Since 2006, over 800 families have been supported with over $5.5 million in financial support. Gifts of any amount are welcome and encouraged. For more information, contact Angels Among Us at (402) 934-0999 or visit www.myangelsamongus.org.

The Nebraska Chapter of Child Evangelism Fellowship® of Nebraska is part of the world’s largest and oldest children’s youth ministry. Established in 1937, the global ministry has reached over 250 million children with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. CEF is unique in that the ministry focuses specifically on elementary children ages 5–12. CEF of Nebraska’s Good News Club (GNC) is a weekly, after-school club held during the school year that primarily meets in local public schools. This club takes the Bible and prayer back into the public elementary schools. During the summer, their Summer Good News Club is held where the children are neighborhoods, daycares, homes, and parks.

CEF of Nebraska brings the gospel of Jesus Christ to children, allowing them the opportunity to make a life changing decision for Christ in a safe and loving environment.

If you would like to know more, please contact Jonathan Musgrave at jonathan@cefnebraska.org or call (402) 484-7877. Or visit: cefnebraska. org. Business sponsorships are always welcome and provide added value to the local community allowing more children to be positively impacted. Apace , formerly known as the Region V Foundation, is dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with disabilities in Southeast Nebraska. For more than 45 years, Apace has supported individuals through services that go beyond traditional funding, providing access to day programs, transportation, housing, job coaching, and enriching experiences that promote independence and inclusion.

Their mission is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive. Apace works to create a more inclusive community by offering vital tools and resources, educating the public about disability awareness, and fostering meaningful connections between individuals and their communities.

Through partnerships, advocacy, and support, Apace fills critical gaps to ensure people with disabilities have the opportunities they deserve to lead fulfilling lives. We are proud to serve the Lincoln area and Southeast Nebraska, continuing a long-standing commitment to dignity, respect, and empowerment for all.

To learn more about our programs or to get involved, please visit GoApace.com or call (402) 471-6400.

Aiding Angels is a local, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing FREE, professional house cleaning to the cancer heroes in our community during one of the most stressful times of their lives. A clean home and environment contributes to the welfare and recovery of patients.

Brenda Schwery, has provided free home cleaning services for years through another foundation where women with cancer are the only recipients. In response to an overwhelming number of requests from not only women, but also men and children, Brenda founded Aiding Angels. Now, the void is filled and the muchneeded help is extended to everyone, men, women and children regardless of financial status, going through cancer treatment or hospice due to cancer.

For more information on Aiding Angels, please visit aidingangels. com or contact Brenda at (402) 434-2472.

For over 60 years, Keep Nebraska Beautiful (KNB) has worked for the betterment of Nebraska through waste reduction, recycling, and community beautification. KNB’s mission is to enhance, preserve, and beautify Nebraska, by developing and managing programs and partnerships with statewide affiliates, private industry leaders and citizens who share a passion for the environment. As a state affiliate of Keep America Beautiful (KAB), KNB coordinates KAB events in the state of Nebraska and is a statewide resource for its 20 local community affiliates and all Nebraska residents.

The largest programs offered through KNB are the Nebraska School Chemical Cleanout Campaign, Materials Exchange Program, Used Oil Collection Program, Food Waste Reduction Program, Household Hazardous Waste Program and our newest Sustainability Seal Program. These initiatives focus on promoting environmental sustainability and public education/awareness.

To learn more, call us at (402) 486-4562 or visit www.knb.org for more information.

Heroes Honor Ride, a registered 501 (c)3 non-profit, recognizes your nationally nominated heroes for their courage, sacrifice, and commitment to their communities.

Through their combined interest in building motorcycles and helping Veterans and first responders, the organization has created the Heroes Honor Ride to honor and recognize the incredible individuals within the community. In honor of their service, each year one recipient will receive a custom-built motorcycle and be recognized as our honored hero along a 40-mile motorcycle ride to the legendary Buffalo Chip in Sturgis, SD.

In their inaugural year, HHR honors our Gold Star families and the ultimate sacrifice they have made. Next year, the honored stripe will be chosen by the registered riders at the annual ride. Each year’s stripe nomination allows the group to support the causes of each hero through merchandise sales and one-time donations.

See their website, https://heroeshonorride.org/ for more information and to get involved.

Nestled in southwest Lincoln, Willard Community Center has been a cornerstone of community engagement and development since its founding in 1980. Operating out of a historic former school building, Willard has evolved into a hub of activity, offering a diverse array of programs that serve people of all ages, backgrounds, and needs.

The center’s early childhood education initiatives, including pre-K programs, lay the foundation for lifelong learning. Additionally, Willard provides crucial before and afterschool cares for students attending Roper and Lakeview Elementary, ensuring children have a safe, supportive space during the school day. For adults and seniors, Willard hosts wellness classes, social gatherings, and educational workshops, offering opportunities for personal growth and community connection. The center also helps address food insecurity and community needs through services like the Blessings Box and partnerships with organizations such as the Lincoln Fresh Food Truck.

Through its diverse programs and unwavering dedication to the Lincoln community, Willard Community Center continues to be a vital resource, enriching lives and fostering a spirit of inclusivity, connection, and mutual support.

For more information: https://www.willardcommunitycenter.org

American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives, devoted to saving people from two of the nation’s top killers: heart disease and stroke.

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

Through events right here in Nebraska, like the Heart Walk, Go Red for Women and Heart Ball, the American Heart Association is making an impact.

For more information, visit heart.org/nebraska.

The White Cane Foundation was established in 2019 to provide 2 brand new clothing outfits to students in Title 1 elementary schools in Lincoln, NE. We will be serving ALL 19 schools in August. There are so many families in need. We all feel better when we have a new outfit. Many of these kids have never had clothes with a tag on it, let alone shopped for themselves. We provide dignity and a one on one interaction with each child we serve. “In the 20 minutes we share with them and get to chat, we notice a little more confidence and each one of the 2500 kids we met with this last year, leaves our space walking a little taller.” We provide 20 minutes just for them and they are the star. The impact of that is beyond our imaginations and will be realized in the years to come. The joy that is experienced in those moments makes a difference today.

For more information: https://thewhitecanefoundation.org

In 1907, a group of compassionate hearts within our local churches came together to create something truly remarkable: People’s City Mission. Now, housing up to (and many times in extreme weather OVER) 350 individuals nightly, PCM provides more than shelter; it offers a safety net for people experiencing homelessness and poverty. They are given access to emergency housing, the Help Center, Free Dental Clinic, spiritual care, and connection to vital services to help get them back on their feet.

And it’s all thanks to the incredible support of our community, with over 97% of funding coming from generous donations. Your contribution isn’t just a gift; it’s a lifeline for those facing hardship, transforming lives with each act of kindness.

Contact info@pcmlincoln.org or call (402) 475-1303 for more information. You can also visit www.pcmlincoln.org or @pcmlincoln on Facebook, Instagram, and X to keep up to date on what is happening at PCM.

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

Since 1955, LCF has been privileged to be part of many wonderful legacies by connecting donor generosity to local needs. The organization serves as a faithful stewards for many types of philanthropic gifts and helps donors create lasting legacies of giving. With gifts of all sizes from thousands of donors over the years, the assets of LCF have grown to more than $250 million. LCF has distributed more than $264 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of our residents.

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

Hundreds of children and youth in Lancaster County are victims of abuse and neglect.

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

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

As Nebraska’s quality awardwinning expert in Senior Care, nonprofit Tabitha , an Eventide Affiliate, empowers people to live joyfully and age gratefully. Serving families across the state since 1886, Tabitha provides comprehensive services, including results-driven rehabilitation, in-home health care, compassionate hospice, innovative senior living communities, and Tabitha Meals on Wheels in Lincoln. For all aging needs, “Tabitha is the answer.”

Each year, Tabitha relies on generous community support to bridge the gap in funding for senior care. Government programs like Medicaid and Medicare do not fully cover the cost of services, making fundraising essential to continue providing high-quality, mission-driven care.

You can help ensure seniors receive the support and dignity they deserve. Join the effort and give today. Connect with the Tabitha Foundation by visiting Tabitha.org/Give or calling 402-486-8520. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of older adults across Nebraska.

HopeSpoke inspires healthy futures for children and families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health services. Emotional challenges and trauma are difficult to navigate, especially for kids. When life feels overwhelming, HopeSpoke offers support, healing, and hope.

Serving individuals and families across the lifespan, HopeSpoke provides a range of services, including outpatient counseling, schoolbased therapy, extended day treatment, and crisis and residential care. Outpatient services are available in person or via telehealth, offering flexibility to meet each individual’s needs.

With a legacy of care dating back to 1949, HopeSpoke remains dedicated to supporting children’s mental well-being. Our experienced team delivers expert, compassionate, and innovative treatment tailored to help families thrive.

At HopeSpoke, we believe every child and family deserves a bright, healthy future, and we’re here to help make that future possible.

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

Since 1952, The Arc of Lincoln has been a resource for parents, schools, agencies and individuals who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities. The mission is to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to promote and protect their rights and interests, while enriching the quality of their lives. They believe that all people deserve opportunities and to be contributors and influencers in their communities.

For more information: www.arclincoln.org for more information.

The Bridge Behavioral Health, located at 721 K Street in Lincoln, Nebraska, is a nonprofit organization offering compassionate care to individuals facing substance use and mental health challenges. For over 40 years, The Bridge has been a place of healing and hope, providing detox, residential, and outpatient services in a safe, respectful environment.

One of its most impactful programs is Bridge Connect, a low-barrier drop-in center where anyone in need can find safety, a hot meal, access to Wi-Fi and charging stations, and—most importantly—a connection to caring, supportive faces. No appointment needed, no judgment—just help when it’s needed most.

We’d love to show you the work we’re doing to support our community. If you’re interested in setting up a tour, give us a call. A live person is available to answer 24/7 at 402-477-3951. Everyone deserves a place to feel seen, safe, and supported.

For more information: https://thebridgenebraska.org

For more than 50 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln (BBBSL) has operated under the belief that inherent in every young person is the ability to succeed and thrive in life. The Big Brothers Big Sisters’ vision is for all youth to achieve their full potential. To fulfill that vision, the mission of BBBS is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. BBBS Lincoln is part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands (BBBSM) network. As a donor and volunteer supported organization, BBBSM is committed to defending the potential of youth in the Lincoln and Omaha/Council Bluffs metro areas, spanning across nine counties in Nebraska and Iowa. Through the establishment of nearly 150 mentoring relationships this year, BBBSL strives to provide a solid foundation for personal growth, academic achievement, and positive development.

To volunteer, donate, or acquire further information about our initiatives, please visit www.bbbsmidlands.org or contact us at 402330-2449, option 4. Stay connected and informed by following Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln (@bbbslincoln) on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Nebraska Sports Council (NSC) stands as a premier organization fostering community engagement through sports and physical activity. At the heart of its initiatives are the Lincoln and Omaha Corporate Games, events that unite businesses in friendly competition, promoting teamwork and healthy lifestyle. These games serve as a platform for corporations to build camaraderie among employees while emphasizing the importance of fitness and well-being.

NSC, committed to enriching sports culture in Nebraska, actively seeks partnerships and sponsorships. Corporations aligning with the NSC gain exposure and contribute to the development of a healthier and more connected community. Sponsorship opportunities encompass a range of engagement levels, from event-specific branding to sustained partnerships, allowing businesses to tailor their involvement according to their marketing and charitable objectives. By supporting NSC and the Corporate Games, sponsors play a vital role in fostering a dynamic, active and interconnected Nebraska community.

Learn more at NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.

The mission of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is to relieve hunger, overcome homelessness, address addiction and provide outreach and advocacy in Lincoln. Serving lunch and dinner seven days a week, Matt Talbot is a hunger relief and outreach center dedicated to helping the homeless and near-homeless find possibilities when things seem impossible. Each year over 250,000 meals are provided through onsite prepared meals, emergency food pantries, and food distributed through the Fresh Choice Pantry and over 50,000 outreach and homeless prevention services are provided including housing, case management, drug and alcohol evaluations, education classes, homeless diversion and help with obtaining vital identification documents. Matt Talbot has maintained a four-star Charity Navigator ranking for ten consecutive years, received the 2023 Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics, and is recognized for transparency with a Gold Seal GuideStar Nonprofit Profile.

Learn more at mtko.org.

Filament Essential Services empowers nonprofits to focus on their mission by providing essential operational support. They help organizations thrive by addressing critical needs so they can make a greater impact.

Build Your Visibility: Strengthen your brand, create compelling content and execute strategic marketing campaigns.

Ensure Financial Stability: Rely on expert bookkeeping, payroll, financial reporting and compliance support.

Protect Your Data: Safeguard donor information with their certified cybersecurity services, ensuring trust and compliance.

Optimize Your Technology: Streamline IT operations with managed services and technology solutions tailored to your needs.

Enhance Leadership and Growth: Develop your team and strategies with workshops, board development and capacity-building programs.

Nebraska Community Foundation unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. Headquartered in Lincoln, the Foundation serves communities, donors and organizations by providing financial management, strategic development, education and training to a statewide network of 1,500 volunteers serving 270 communities.

Nebraska Community Foundation was established in 1994 by a group of visionaries determined to empower communities throughout the state to grow and prosper. Since then, NCF has reinvested $553 million in Nebraska’s people and places. They believed that with the right tools and resources, people could build the hometowns of their dreams. Hometowns that are poised to attract families, lay a progressive and sustainable foundation, create opportunities, emanate pride and welcome everyone.

NCF’s mission, vision and values guide its commitment to helping Greater Nebraska reach its full potential. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org.

Visit filamentservices.org or call (402) 219-9600 to discover how Filament Essential Services can support your organization’s success.

Pregnancy Center of Lincoln is a nonprofit, faith-based organization located in the heart of Lincoln, just off O Street. Every day women in our community visit the Pregnancy Center for answers. These women desperately need love and support, and many of them are afraid and feel like they have no options. The Pregnancy Center provides comprehensive information about every option available to women facing an unintended pregnancy. The center also provides confidential counsel, pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, materials support, parenting and birth classes all at no cost to their clients or taxpayers.

For more information: https://pregnancycenterlincoln.org

The Foundry Community exists to support, educate, and develop the Nebraska purpose-driven community. We design resources to provide talent, capacity, programs, and spaces tailored to nonprofits and purposedriven organizations in Lincoln and Nebraska. By joining our community, organizations can accelerate their impact pathway through fiscal sponsorships and incubation services and benefit from added capacity and talent through our partnerships with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Kearney Honors programs (Intern Foundry and Base Camp). We also offer meeting rooms, event spaces, and a specialized coworking environment in our headquarters located in the heart of downtown Lincoln. We deeply value our members and work to provide infrastructure that sets up Nebraska-based nonprofits, purpose-driven businesses, and public sector organizations up for success. We enable small organizations to focus on their core missions, empowering them to make a direct and positive impact on the world. We are proud to say that our work is centered on adding capacity to community impact work, and, at the same time, working to make a positive dent in Nebraska’s Brain Drain by engaging high-achieving students in our programming. Join us to become part of a collaborative network that fosters growth, community, and success - in Lincoln and Greater Nebraska.

For more information and to become a member: visit thefoundry.co.

The impact of a clean diaper cannot be overstated. Since 2014, Nebraska Diaper Bank (NDB) has operated a growing diaper distribution program, partnering with social service agencies to serve families across the state.

Clean, dry diapers are essential to a baby’s health and well-being, yet many families struggle to keep up with this basic need. Diapers are not covered by SNAP, WIC, or Medicaid, so for families already stretching every dollar, spending $80 or more per month on diapers can be the breaking point.

NDB is dedicated to filling this critical resource gap for low-income families in Nebraska. By distributing diapers through trusted partner agencies, NDB helps reduce financial stress and empowers parents to work, attend school, and provide a more stable environment for their children by taking one more expense off their plate.

Currently, NDB serves over 5,000 babies each month, distributing more than 300,000 diapers across Nebraska. The need continues to grow, and so does our commitment to ensuring that no child goes without this essential item. To learn more about our mission or to get involved, visit www.nebraskadiaperbank.org

Voices of Hope provides 24-hour services to all genders who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, or related forms of abuse. They have provided free and confidential services to individuals of these crimes in Lincoln/Lancaster County for 48 years. Their services include a 24-hour crisis line (402) 475-7273, victim advocacy courts/hospitals, support groups, crisis counseling, safety planning, assistance with protection orders, basic needs and campus advocacy. They answer more than 8,000 crisis line calls a year and provide face-to-face services to approximately 2,500 unduplicated survivors. Voices of Hope is in need of financial donations, gift cards, gas cards, and donations of basic need items such as personal hygiene items, household items, and security cameras.

To learn more visit voicesofhopelincoln .org.

Vision Maker Media (VMM) continues empowering Native people to share stories to educate, inspire, and connect communities. As a national leader in Indigenous storytelling, VMM supports and distributes Native films that encourage cultural exchanges.

VMM’s commitment to education shows through a new YouTube channel called iNative Shorts for Kids. Designed for children ages 6–12, the channel features short film curations from VMM’s archives. Join Frankie the Hawk, as he shares Indigenous knowledge and sparks curiosity and critical thinking. Watch at youtube.com/@ iNativeShortsforKids.

A second year running, VMM continues the Native American Film Series, a free monthly public screening at UNL’s Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center. Each event features films that stimulate dialogue and new knowledge.

Through these programs, Vision Maker Media envisions a world changed and healed by understanding Native stories and the public conversations they generate.

For more information go to visionmakermedia.org

The Team Jack Foundation’s mission is to raise research funds and awareness for childhood brain cancer. The disease affects nearly 5,000 children each year and is the leading cause of cancer-related death in children. Each year, less than four percent of U.S. federal funding is solely dedicated to childhood cancer research, with even less spent on childhood brain cancer research. The Team Jack Foundation has raised over $15 million for research and has invested in 20 projects nationally. Nebraska ranks seventh in the nation in incidence rate and in the top ten for mortality. To help Nebraska children, one priority for the Foundation is the development of a childhood brain tumor program in Omaha, Nebraska. Team Jack has committed $6.5 million toward the program at UNMC and Children’s Nebraska. The Foundation will continue working directly with world-renowned researchers to develop relevant and impactful research initiatives. To learn more, visit: https://teamjackfoundation.org

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

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

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

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

More than 11,000 Nebraskans will be diagnosed with cancer this year, and 49% of cancer patients report being in debt due to treatment. The Heartland Cancer Foundation’s (HCF) mission is to provide practical and immediate financial assistance to eligible cancer patients in our community so they can focus on what matters most: healing.

If you are passionate about supporting local cancer patients who are struggling with both a cancer diagnosis and financial hardship, get involved by sponsoring one of HCF’s signature events, like the Mardi Gras Gala, Oncology Symposium, or Heartland Golf Classic, or by becoming an Impact Partner and having a presence at all events year-round.

Other ways to show your support include volunteering, joining the Impact Guild, setting up a recurring monthly gift, or including HCF as a beneficiary in your legacy plans. Chances are, cancer has had an impact on your life.

Learn more and reach out at heartlandcancerfoundation.org.

Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. partnered with three universities for their annual campus move-out drive, helping students declutter during and after spring semester finals. This year, students from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Concordia University, and Nebraska Wesleyan University donated a total of 21,840 pounds of items to Goodwill!

When students donate to Goodwill, they help change lives through the power of work. The revenue from Goodwill’s thrift stores in Lincoln and York helps fund local programs that assist job seekers as they overcome barriers to employment. In 2024 alone, Goodwill served over 5,700 individuals with employment-related services, such as job skills training, mentorship, mock interviews and more. Thanks to community donors, Goodwill also diverted over 3.3 million pounds of materials from the local landfill. Goodwill is grateful for support from organizations like UNL, Concordia and Wesleyan that make this impact possible.

For 93 years, Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. has been strengthening the Lincoln community by providing services for individuals who face barriers to employment and by offering residents a year-round outlet for donating clothing, electronics, and household items.

To learn more about Goodwill, visit www.lincolngoodwill.org.

One of Lincoln’s largest nonprofit organizations focusing on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility is the YMCA of Lincoln. The YMCA has served the community for over 150 years – promoting positive values through programs that build spirit, mind and body for all. Today, the YMCA serves the community with facilities in all quadrants of Lincoln through programs including swim lessons, YMCA Youth Sports, YMCA Camp Kitaki, after school programs, health and wellness offerings and more. While the names and program offerings have changed over the past 150 years, the cause remains the same – strengthening the community. As one of the country’s most storied nonprofits, the YMCA knows that lasting personal and social change comes about when everyone works together. Every day, the YMCA works side-by-side with their neighbors to make sure everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. For more information on the YMCA of Lincoln, visit YMCALincoln.org.

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

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

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

TeamMates of Lincoln matches an adult volunteer with a student in grades 3-12 to help them realize their strengths, grow hope for their future and to simply be heard. Matches share common interests and/or lived experiences. Mentor’s may choose the school and/or grade level that fits best for them. Visits last one class period, once a week and take place at school. TeamMates began in 1991, thanks to Dr. Tom and Nancy Osborne. In 34 years, program outcomes have confirmed their belief that caring adults help students – especially those with multiple live challenges – stay engaged in school, graduate high school and make postsecondary plans. Mentors help students expand their aspirations, develop visions for their futures and realize their full potential. To discuss the benefits of mentoring for associates in your business or to offer donations of food for trainings, reach out by calling (402) 436-1990. You can learn more at lincolnteammates.org.

Bridges to Hope is a privately funded nonprofit organization dedicated to serving justice-involved individuals as they transition back into the community. Recognizing the many barriers faced after incarceration, we provide essential, tangible items, such as clothing, hygiene products, furniture, and household goods, completely free of charge. Our goal is to offer dignity, stability, and a fresh start to those seeking to rebuild their lives. To help support our mission, we operate Bud’s Thrift Shoppe, a public resale store with all proceeds benefiting Bridges to Hope. In response to the growing need for safe and supportive housing, we are expanding our services with the development of Hope Village—a transformative new initiative. Hope Village will feature 18 tiny homes offering permanent supportive housing to individuals often facing rejection due to criminal history. This community will provide not only a place to live, but also resources that promote long-term stability and independence.

For more information: https://www.bridgestohopene.org

The mission of the American Red Cross is to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. Our mission is more than words. We always aim to prevent and relieve suffering with every action. The Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to people affected by disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross, through its strong network of volunteers, donors and partners, is always there in times of need. Red Cross supporters provide a beacon of hope. From helping during disasters and ensuring access to lifesaving blood, to providing training to save lives and supporting military communities, the Red Cross is there when help can’t wait. To learn more, visit redcross.org.

The Branched Oak Observatory (BOO) is a unique astronomical park located conveniently just 20 minutes from downtown Lincoln near Branched Oak Lake Recreation Area. Established in 2015, they offer a unique viewing experience and learning opportunity for young and old alike. Whether viewing the sun, the moon or deep-space star clusters and nebulae, the Observatory’s staff of volunteers – amateur and professional astronomers alike – help to “Bring the Night Sky Down to Earth.”

Opening SOON! Come view our newest observatory the Miller Astrophotography Research Center (MARC). Check out our Facebook page for the latest announcements!

The Observatory has a radio telescope to view the electronic spectrum of the universe, a SATCOM array for communications with the International Space Station and other satellites, a Cosmic Ray Detector and an Earth Moon Earth EME array that will allow them to bounce radio signals off the surface of the moon and back to Earth!

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

Please follow the Branched Oak Observatory on Facebook (@BranchedOakObservatory). Keep checking back to see about our “NEW” operating hours! If you would like more information, visit theboo.org or contact Matt Anderson at matthew@ branchedoakobservatory.com / (402) 480-5515. Branched Oak Observatory is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Visionary Youth (VY) believes that community is the foundation for empowering young people to reach their full potential.

Founded in 2012 and voted Lincoln’s Choice Award #1 Nonprofit in 2025, VY has directly supported over 17,000 youth, providing them with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities to break the cycle of poverty and build a brighter future.

Many children growing up in poverty face overwhelming obstacles, including limited access to quality education, high crime rates, and systemic inequality. These challenges often result in lower educational outcomes, greater involvement with the justice system, and a sense of despair that no child should experience.

VY works to change that narrative. From providing immediate relief through essential services—such as free haircuts, school supplies, holiday meals, and winter clothing—to offering long-term support through mentorship, skill-building programs, and educational opportunities, VY ensures that every child has the inspiration and tools needed to succeed. We are committed to fostering a future where all youth, regardless of their circumstances, can reach their fullest potential.

To learn more about how Visionary Youth is making a difference, visit visionaryouth.org.

Fresh Start is a place of hope and new beginnings. They have served 1,970 women (and counting) who have been invested to make real change in their lives. As a nonprofit transitional housing program for women, Fresh Start is more than just a roof over someone’s head. It is a chance to breathe, reset, and work toward becoming self-sufficient.

Fresh Start provides up to a year of housing and support for women 19 and older who are currently without stable housing for a variety of reasons. During that time, they are supported in setting goals, overcoming personal challenges, and truly building a stronger future.

To learn more about the program or if you would like to get involved, please visit our website at http://www.freshstarthome.org) or call 402.475.7777.

Let’s continue to show up for women choosing to start again, because everyone deserves a Fresh Start!

Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln has helped families build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership options fit for any family.

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

Habitat Lincoln has partnered with more than 199 local families, serving more than 812 men, women and children through the construction of new single-family homes, as well as simple and critical repair projects.

Get involved at lincolnhabitat.org.