Strictly Business Lincoln - April 2026

A Paige From My Notebook...

This month feels a little different.

At Strictly Business, we’re typically focused on celebrating growth, opportunity, and the positive momentum happening across our business community. But this April, it’s important we pause and acknowledge something much bigger impacting our state.

Nebraska has recently experienced some of the largest prairie fires in its history, with more than 824,000 acres burned— much of it vital grazing land. For many ranchers and rural communities, this isn’t just a setback, it’s a devastating loss of livelihood, resources, and years of hard work.

For those of us connected to agriculture, this hits close to home.

My husband, Shayne, and I both come from Nebraska’s Sandhills cattle country. We understand the deep connection between the land, livestock, and the families who depend on both. The Sandhills aren’t just where people work, they’re where generations have built their lives.

But the impact doesn’t stop there.

ripple effect will be felt well beyond the Sandhills, impacting supply chains, local economies, and ultimately the price and availability of beef across the region and beyond.

Right now, those families need support.

We encourage our readers to keep these communities in your thoughts and prayers, especially as they wait for much-needed rain. And if you’re able, we invite you to take it one step further and contribute to the Nebraska Sandhills Fire Relief Fund, which is providing direct assistance to those affected.

Donate here: KearneyFoundation.fcsuite.com/ erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=3211

“Support our ranchers today, protect our food supply tomorrow.”

When grazing land is lost at this scale, it directly affects cattle herds, feed availability, and long-term beef production. That

In times like these, what makes Nebraska special becomes clear, neighbors helping neighbors, communities coming together, and people stepping up when it matters most.

While we’ll continue to highlight the successes and growth happening across our business community, this month we stand alongside our ranchers, our rural towns, and everyone impacted by these fires.

Stronger days are ahead, but right now, they need us.

Paige Zutavern President, Strictly Business Magazine

Venue 5 Twenty-Two: A Venue

On this month’s cover, Venue 5 Twenty-Two is featured as a modern event space that has become a popular choice for gatherings of all kinds. With its clean design, spacious layout, and adaptable atmosphere, the venue provides a polished setting for celebrations, corporate events, and milestone moments.

From the moment guests arrive, the space offers a bright and welcoming environment. High ceilings, contemporary finishes, and an open floor plan allow the venue to feel both spacious and inviting. One of the defining features of Venue 5 Twenty-Two is its flexibility. The large event space can be configured in a variety of ways, making it well-suited for everything from elegant weddings and graduation parties to company retreats and private celebrations. The space can also be divided to comfortably host more intimate gatherings while still maintaining the same refined feel.

Throughout the year, Venue 5 Twenty-Two hosts a wide range of events. From weddings and rehearsal dinners to graduation parties, galas, nonprofit events, and community fundraisers, the space is designed to accommodate celebrations of many different styles and sizes. It is also a welcoming setting for baby showers, bridal showers, milestone birthdays, anniversary parties, and holiday gatherings. Businesses frequently utilize the space for

PRODUCTION TEAM:

Art Director: Tea Ilic – ArtDirector@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Editor: Macey Wahl – Editor@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Executive Assistant: Kaitlyn Stara – Office@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Copywriters: Haylee W, Emma B & Joy L

SALES TEAM:

President/Sales Paige Zutavern – Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

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

Sales Laurie Dunn – LaurieD@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

meetings, retreats, networking events, and corporate celebrations, making it a versatile location for both personal and professional occasions.

The venue was designed with customization in mind. Rather than offering rigid packages, Venue 5 Twenty-Two provides a sophisticated canvas that allows clients to bring their own vision to life. Hosts are welcome to work with licensed, full-service catering teams and vendors of their choice, giving them the freedom to design an event that reflects their style and priorities. In-house rentals are also available to help enhance the space and elevate the overall experience.

Just as important as the space itself is the planning process behind it. The team at Venue 5 Twenty-Two focuses on creating a straightforward and organized experience for clients. Transparent pricing, clear communication, and a streamlined booking process help make planning easier for both individuals and organizations hosting events.

Lawn Pride of Lincoln Celebrates Grand Opening and Launch of Lawn Care Services

HobbyTown Marks 80 Years in Lincoln with Milestone Celebration

Lawn Pride of Lincoln is excited to announce the grand opening of its locally owned lawn care business, bringing professional lawn fertilization and weed control services to homeowners throughout the Lincoln area. While the business officially opened on Jan. 2, Lawn Pride of Lincoln began marketing its services in February and is now actively serving customers as the lawn care season begins.

Owned and operated by a brother-and-sister team, Lawn Pride of Lincoln is excited to introduce its customized lawn care programs designed to help homeowners achieve greener, healthier lawns. Their services focus on professional fertilization, weed control, and other treatments that support strong turf growth and curb appeal throughout the year.

To celebrate the grand opening, Lawn Pride of Lincoln is offering a special promotion for new customers. Homeowners who sign up for a lawn care program will receive their first application of the season at no cost, giving them an opportunity to experience the benefits of professional lawn care as spring begins.

The team is passionate about helping local homeowners take the guesswork out of lawn care by providing science-based treatments tailored to the region’s soil and climate conditions. With a focus on reliability, strong customer service, and consistent results, Lawn Pride of Lincoln aims to help residents maintain lawns they can be proud of all season long. For more information, please visit lawnpride.com/ Lincoln or call (402) 759-9044.

HobbyTown recently celebrated a historic double anniversary, marking 80 years of operations in Lincoln and the 20th anniversary of current owners Daniel and Chelsy Schmidt. The event, held at the HobbyTown Superstore at 70th & Pioneers, honored the business’s long standing legacy as a local hub of all things fun!

The celebration brought together a community of hobby enthusiasts, former staff, and previous owners to reminisce about the store’s evolution since “Chick Bartlett’s HobbyTown” first opened its doors downtown in 1946.

Throughout the anniversary weekend, attendees enjoyed several special features including a Memorabilia Showcase. This showcase featured a curated collection of memorabilia from HobbyTown’s eight decades in Lincoln allowing guests to look back at the HobbyTown’s rich history.

For over two decades, Daniel and Chelsy Schmidt have maintained HobbyTown’s reputation as Lincoln’s premiere destination for toys, games, and hobbies. The Superstore, located at 4107 Pioneer Woods Drive, continues to serve the community with its dedicated focus on “all things fun”.

About HobbyTown

HobbyTown is locally owned and operated in Lincoln, NE. The store is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. For more information on future events, follow HobbyTown Lincoln at facebook.com/HobbyTownLincolnSouth or instagram.com/hobbytownlincoln.

EPIC Option Prepares for EPIC Option 3.0

Based on the number of weekly notarized petitions EPIC Option has received to date, projections indicate that the goal of 160,000 signatures by July 1, 2026, shall not be met.

As a result, volunteer signature collection for the 2026 ballot initiative has paused. This decision does not end EPIC Option; it marks a reset and a stronger path forward with the launch of EPIC Option 3.0. EPIC Option 3.0 remains fully committed to eliminating Nebraska’s property, income, and inheritance taxes.

The third time is a charm. The EPIC Option 3.0 team is regrouping for a restart for 2028. Because no ballot initiative has successfully gathered enough signatures using only volunteers since 1966, the EPIC Option 3.0 team will be using paid circulators.

Their immediate goal is to raise $1.86 million to pay circulators to collect 160,000 signatures. If just 8,000 Nebraskans donate $250, Nebraska’s Second House will raise $2 million dollars. This is a small investment compared to the annual tax burden that will be eliminated. Together, Nebraskans can make EPIC Option 3.0 a reality. Learn more at EPICoption.info

Steve Jessen, President of EPIC Option (402) 992-0429

75.16± Acre Lancaster County Farm to Sell via Online Auction April 17

A high-quality 75.16± acre farm in southwest Lancaster County will be offered for sale through an online land auction conducted by BigIron Realty. Bidding opens April 3, and closes April 17, at 11 a.m. Central.

Located approximately 3.5 miles west and ¾ mile north of Hallam, Nebraska, the property features highly productive farmland with more than 96% of the acres reported as tillable by the Farm Service Agency. The current tenant describes the tract as ground that “farms fast and easy, with those small terraces,” highlighting its efficiency and productivity.

A four-year lime program was applied prior to the 2024 planting season, providing approximately two additional years of soil benefit. With 72.44 FSA cropland acres and a strong five-year average yield of 133.43 bushels per acre for corn and 57.91 bushels per acre for soybeans, the farm presents an attractive opportunity for farmers, investors, or new operators seeking quality ground.

Geological and hydrological reports suggest strong potential for irrigation well viability in the northeast corner of the property, though no test drilling has been conducted. In addition to its agricultural value, the property also offers potential for buildable lots or a country homesite. Electricity runs along the northern boundary, and the property’s elevated topography provides scenic views and a peaceful rural setting.

The property is open for the 2026 planting season, and the successful buyer may begin fieldwork immediately following the auction once the 20% earnest deposit has cleared.

An informational meeting will be held April 17, from 9 a.m. until the close of the auction at the Hallam Community Center, 315 Main Street, Hallam, Nebraska.

To learn more or register to bid, visit: tinyurl.com/BigIron7.

CareerPathway.com Organizes Statewide Workforce Initiative for Students

CareerPathway.com recently announced the launch of Find Your Path Hour, a statewide classroom initiative for April to give students structured exposure to careers, education pathways, and employers through a single, scalable experience providing real time data and true insight into tomorrow’s talent. The initiative provides middle school, high school, and postsecondary classrooms with a focused 30, 60, or 90-minute workforce exploration using the CareerPathway.com platform.

During the classroom events, students will explore career options tied to Nebraska industries, review education and training requirements led by the industries themselves, and build personalized profiles connected to local opportunities to help retain talent in NE.

“Find Your Path Hour connects students to real careers in their communities while giving schools and employers shared insight into future talent pathways,” said Bo Jones, CEO of CareerPathway.com. “This makes workforce exploration practical, measurable, and relevant.”

Find Your Path Hour will be set by individual schools and classrooms during the week of April 20-24. During the experience, students create a dynamic resume, explore career pathways, watch short employer videos from local companies, and identify next steps aligned to their interests for education or employment. As students engage with the platform, their profiles automatically update in real time, showing how interests and coursework connect to potential careers. Teachers receive ready-to-use lesson plans and implementation resources. Districts receive aggregate participation data to support career readiness planning and employer engagement.

Schools and parents can learn more at CareerPathway.com/ findyourpath. Businesses and organizations can learn more about engaging in the initiative or joining the platform by contacting support@ careerpathway.com

LeadershipHarborAnnounces2026“Daysto Grow” Leadership Development Series

On Point Insurance Agency Finds New Home in the Long Office Building

Leadership Harbor invites leaders, professionals, and growth-minded individuals to participate in the 2026 Days to Grow series—four powerful opportunities throughout the year designed to inspire, challenge, and equip participants for greater leadership and personal development. Each session features a video presentation from world-class speakers including John Maxwell, Valerie Burton, and Craig Groeschel, followed by a guided lunch debrief designed to help attendees process key insights and practical application. Participants may attend one, two, three, or all four sessions throughout 2026.

The series begins April 21 with John Maxwell’s What All Leaders Have in Common, followed by May 19 with Valerie Burton’s Rules of Resilience. The series continues July 14 with Craig Groeschel’s Breaking Barriers and concludes September 8 with John Maxwell’s 6 Characteristics of a Great Team. Each event includes a video presentation, engaging discussion, and lunch. Participants can also deepen their growth by joining optional three-week mastermind sessions designed to turn ideas into meaningful action based on each speaker’s content.

Discounts are available for multiple registrations, and payment plans are offered for participants registering for two or more series.

Learn more and register at leadershipharbor.com.

Maid To Please Grows Its Customer Base by Expanding Its Office Cleaning Line

Beginning April 1, 2026 the On Point Insurance team will be ready to meet clients in their own office suite, located on 4535 Normal Blvd, Suite 232. They look forward to continuing to serve the Lincoln and greater Nebraska community by helping individuals, families and seniors make On Point health insurance decisions.

An open house and ribbon cutting ceremony will be following in June with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce; stay tuned for more details!

More information about the agency and move, including pictures will be available on their website in early April at insuranceonpoint.com.

Their phone number will remain (402) 625-6578 and Krista, Rachael and Todd are ready to help!

A1 Automotive Celebrates Grand Opening in Seward, Nebraska

Maid To Please, Lincoln’s Premier Residential Home Cleaning Service, has long maintained a small but loyal portfolio of office and professional clients. After receiving consistently positive feedback regarding reliability, professionalism, and attention to detail, the company has made the strategic decision to expand its office cleaning division.

Since December, several Lincoln-area businesses have reached out to learn more about Maid To Please’s office cleaning capabilities, signaling strong demand for a trusted, locally owned provider in this space. The team brings the same structured systems, backgroundchecked technicians, and quality standards that have earned a 4.9star Google rating in residential cleaning to every office environment it serves.

Maid To Please understands that a clean workspace supports employee morale, strengthens client impressions, and enhances overall productivity. The company is particularly well suited for office teams that have become too busy to maintain their own environments, as well as for leadership groups seeking to elevate workplace standards by entrusting cleaning responsibilities to trained professionals. Finally, Maid’s services are a great option where management teams would like to ‘gift’ that cleaning responsibility away from their already busy staffs to the best technicians in Lincoln!

While regular business hours remain Monday through Friday, additional after-hours and weekend availability is expected to be introduced to support this growing line of service. Maid To Please looks forward to partnering with more Lincoln offices in 2026 and continuing to build long-term relationships within the local business community. Visit their website at maid-to-please.com or call (402) 434-2472.

A1 Automotive is proud to announce the grand opening of its full-service automotive repair facility in Seward, Nebraska. Locally owned and operated, A1 Automotive is committed to delivering honest, high-quality automotive repair and maintenance services to the Seward community and surrounding areas, and working on all makes and models and OE diagnostic equipment to service, BMWs, Audis, Range Rovers, Porsches including Dodge, Ford and Chevrolet.

With a focus on integrity, precision, and customer care, A1 Automotive offers a wide range of services including diagnostics, engine repair, brake service, suspension work, preventative maintenance, and advanced vehicle technology support. The shop is equipped with modern diagnostic tools and industry-leading equipment to service both domestic and import vehicles.

“Our mission is simple—to serve our community with excellence and build trust one vehicle at a time,” said Kendall Warnock, owner of A1 Automotive. “We believe automotive repair should be transparent, reliable, and centered around people.”

A1 Automotive is dedicated to creating a welcoming environment where customers feel informed and confident about their vehicle repairs. The team emphasizes clear communication, timely service, and dependable workmanship.

The grand opening celebration will take place on April 1st, with community members invited to tour the facility, meet the team, and learn more about the services offered.

A1 Automotive is located at 408 Main St, Seward, Nebraska. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (402) 6433361 or visit a1autolincoln.com.

About A1 Automotive

A1 Automotive is a locally owned automotive repair shop serving Seward and surrounding communities. Built on a foundation of integrity, expertise, and community commitment, A1 Automotive exists to keep drivers safely on the road while delivering service customers can trust.

ProBusinessPlansLaunchesFounderFilings, a White-Glove Business Formation and Compliance Service for Founders

Pro Business Plans has launched Founder Filings, a done-foryou business formation and compliance service designed specifically for first-time founders, aspiring entrepreneurs, and fundraising startups.

While many entrepreneurs turn to online filing mills or attempt to navigate state websites themselves, Founder Filings provides a single partner to handle entity formation, EIN submission, registered agent coverage, annual report tracking, and ongoing compliance. The service is designed to ensure founders have clean documentation, good standing, and proper legal structure before banking, hiring, or raising capital.

Two plan options are available, including an enhanced privacy tier with a dedicated virtual business address and real-time mail scanning. Multi-state founders can also add foreign registrations and registered agent coverage as needed.

Founder Filings aligns with the company’s broader mission of helping business owners move from idea to funding with fewer delays and fewer compliance risks. By removing administrative complexity, Pro Business Plans enables founders to focus on building revenue and preparing for growth.

To get in contact, visit business-plans.com/business-services, email aaron@business-plans.com, or call (402) 418-2865.

Elite Referral Network Announces April Lincoln Events

Pilot Expands AI-Powered Accounting Platform to Lincoln

Nebraska has talented, dedicated bookkeeping professionals. What they’ve often lacked is access to enterprise-level technology to keep pace with their clients’ growth. Pilot is changing that. The AI-powered accounting platform has expanded its Local Partner Program, equipping bookkeepers and accounting firms with the tools to close books faster, serve more clients, and spend their time where it matters: advising the businesses that depend on them. This expansion builds on two milestones: the December 2025 launch of the Pilot Local Partner Program and the February 2026 unveiling of Pilot’s fully autonomous AI Accountant, a system that handles the full bookkeeping lifecycle in hours rather than weeks. Pilot is hosting a free SMB Mixer on April 22, at 6 p.m. in Lincoln. Free accounting insights, food and drinks included. The evening will open with a short panel discussion featuring local accountants sharing practical financial guidance, followed by networking, food, and activities designed to encourage connection. With the launch of the Pilot Local Partner Program and their fully autonomous AI Accountant, Pilot is giving independent bookkeepers and accounting firms the technology and support they need to serve their clients better, and giving small business owners access to accurate, real-time financials at a price that works for them. Nathalie Lopez of Cuentas Claras LLC is among Lincoln’s first certified Pilot Local Partners. For more information or to register, scan the QR code or visit pilot.com/ location/bookkeeping-services-lincoln.

Elite Referral Network invites professionals to attend a Group Visitor Day on April 10 at 8:30 a.m. at Meraki Dog Training, 5220 S. 48th St., Ste. 6, hosted by Dr. Kristin Morgan’s networking group. Visitor Days offer an opportunity to experience the group, meet members, and learn how relationship-based networking helps businesses grow.

Dr. Kristin Morgan is the owner of Premier Integrated Health & Wellness, a clinic offering chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage therapy, and Pilates Reformer training. With more than 14 years of experience as a chiropractor and certified acupuncturist, Dr. Morgan leads her group with a focus on authentic connection, collaboration, and building meaningful professional relationships within the community.

Also on April 10 at 1:30 p.m., Elite Referral Network will celebrate a ribbon cutting for LP Fitness Transformation Center South, founded by Liza Mendoza House. What began in 2014 with Liza’s personal 70-pound transformation and a desire to help others has grown into Lincoln’s only full-service transformation center, offering coach-led workouts, customized nutrition, and a supportive community focused on lasting health and confidence.

Finally, Friday Afternoon Club (FAC) will take place April 17 at 4 p.m., providing a relaxed networking opportunity for members and guests to connect at the end of the workweek.

This month’s FAC will be hosted by Carma Bryan of Homes by Carma/Nebraska Realty, leader of the ERN group The Trusted Table. With more than 20 years of leadership experience, Carma is known for creating welcoming spaces where professionals can build relationships and grow their networks

More information can be found at elitereferralnetwork.com.

NE Chamber, Dept. of Labor Announce New CommunityCollegeManufacturingCredential

In conjunction with Manufacturing Day at the Capitol, the collaborators announced a partnership with Nebraska State Chamber Foundation, the state’s six community colleges, and the Department of Labor, to deliver modular, employer-based training to students or workers to earn Level 1 Manufacturing Certifications.

The program establishes a statewide, stackable entry-level Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance Credential that verifies manufacturing skills and creates a consistent industry-recognized standard across Nebraska. It establishes the community colleges as registered apprenticeship hubs in addition to helping develop curriculum for the credential, hire instructional designers, instructors, and skills coaches; helps purchase equipment and support student success at the colleges. In addition to taking the courses tuition-free, students receive stipends for participating in them. The credential can be completed in 6-8 weeks by attending one class per week. Additionally, students can go on to earn Level 2 or 3 manufacturing certificates.

Students participating can be youth or high-school-aged learners, adults studying for their GED, or high school graduates and industry professionals wanting to “upskill.” Upskilling can earn workers higher wages and promotion. Funding for the $7 million project is from the state’s Workforce Development Program Cash Fund.

Prospective students interested in enrolling should contact their community college. Manufacturers wanting to learn more can contact the NE Chamber.com.

The team at Capital Cigar Lounge is proud to announce the return of the “Something in the Water” speaker series. Held at Capital Cigar Lounge in Lincoln, “Something in the Water” creates a unique environment where entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and professionals can engage in thoughtful dialogue about the ideas shaping tomorrow’s economy. Unlike traditional speaking engagements, the series is intentionally conversational, encouraging attendees to interact directly with guests who are actively building companies, leading organizations, and solving real-world challenges.

The series takes inspiration from the book “Something in the Water” by Anthony Goins, co-owner of Capital Cigar Lounge, which explores the mindset and leadership principles behind building meaningful businesses and communities.

Each event offers guests the opportunity to hear firsthand perspectives from founders and innovators who are driving change across industries. The series has also become a valuable opportunity for young professionals to learn directly from experienced leaders, gain insight into emerging industries, and engage in conversations that rarely happen in traditional professional settings.

Whether attendees are entrepreneurs, professionals, or simply curious about the future of technology and business, the series provides a rare chance to sit in the room with people doing the work. The return of “Something in the Water” reinforces Capital Cigar Lounge’s commitment to fostering community, conversation, and connection in Lincoln’s professional landscape. For more information, please visit capitalcigar.com/news.

Husker Rehab North Adds New BlazePod Training Tool

The team at Husker Rehab North is excited to introduce the BlazePod training system as the newest addition to their therapy tools.

BlazePod is an innovative, light based training technology that enhances balance, coordination, core strength, and agility. Therapists can use it to support a wide range of patient needs, including:

• Athletic performance and return to sport training

• Neurological rehabilitation

• Post surgical recoverys

• Injury rehabilitation and prevention

This interactive system makes therapy more engaging, motivating patients while improving performance through quick reaction tasks and measurable progress. At Husker Rehab, they are committed to providing the highest quality care in a fun, supportive, and forward thinking environment. Adding BlazePod helps them continue to stay at the forefront of new procedures and therapy innovations. They look forward to sharing this exciting new tool with their patients! More information at huskerrehab.com.

Alpha Zed Services Introduces Estate InformationPortfolioandBusinessContinuity Planning Services

Alpha Zed Services has introduced Estate Information Portfolio and Business Continuity Planning services designed to help individuals and small business owners organize essential information before it becomes urgently needed.

While many people have legal documents in place, the supporting information those documents rely on is often scattered, incomplete, or difficult for others to locate. The Estate Information Portfolio provides a structured framework for gathering critical financial, medical, legal, digital, and contact information into one cohesive system.

The process begins with a guided review of what currently exists and what may be missing. From there, clients are supported in organizing documents, identifying key contacts, clarifying access points, and outlining immediate action steps for both temporary incapacity and death.

For business owners, Business Continuity Planning extends this framework to operational matters, helping identify responsibilities, critical systems, client communication needs, and essential information required to prevent disruption if the unexpected occurs.

Alpha Zed Services does not provide legal advice or draft legal documents. Instead, the company focuses on organization, clarity, and practical structure — ensuring that attorneys, family members, or business partners can quickly locate the information they need. These services are especially valuable for individuals who want to reduce stress for their families, as well as business owners who recognize that operational clarity is part of responsible planning.

For more information about Estate Information Portfolio or Business Continuity Planning services, reach out to: kim@alphazedservices. com. You can also visit alphazedservices.com.

SixGrantRecipientsAwardedandAnnounced for LaunchLNK 2026 Program

The Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development (LPED) is thrilled to announce the recipients of this year’s LaunchLNK Grant Program, awarding $20,000 non dilutive grants to six highgrowth startups establishing or expanding their operations in Lincoln.

The six companies in the 2026 LaunchLNK cohort represent varied economic industries and sectors, showing the diversity of the local startup ecosystem.

Six Grant Recipients Awarded and

DineU is a technology platform that offers students a secure alternative to off-campus food delivery. By integrating directly into university dining apps, DineU enables universities and dining service providers to offer delivery at checkout, instantly matching orders with a verified student courier.

Announced

LaunchLNK 2026 Program

Lincoln, NE - The Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development (LPED) announce the recipients of this year’s LaunchLNK Grant Program, awarding dilutive grants to six high-growth startups establishing or expanding their operations

Doomsun is a fintech operating in the algorithmic trading space with a thematic focus on the energy transition. Their mission is to bring clarity to complex, rapidly shifting markets by building tools that reveal market structure and turn uncertainty into edge.

GrazeStat converts passive equine behavior into predictive health intelligence, creating the first scalable early-detection infrastructure layer for proactive care. GrazeStat aims to minimize emergency costs, performance losses, and preventable fatalities by detecting conditions in horses before escalation.

The 2026 cohort showcases the commitment made by LPED to continue its local entrepreneurs and their businesses as they look to transform their young thriving companies. By prioritizing companies where the LaunchLNK grant economic impact, LPED selects each LaunchLNK recipient in the hopes that spur revenue and job creation, attracting additional capital investment.

Thorough Selection Process Produces Exciting Lineup:

Kimto is a family operating system that unites health, wealth, and legacy planning into one coordinated platform. Kimto helps families prevent conflict, reduce risk, and preserve continuity during illness, incapacity, or loss so loved ones stay aligned when it matters most.

MicroFarm OS helps you plan what to grow, connect with local buyers and even coordinate pickups—so you can grow more food and even earn extra income from your own backyard. MicroFarm OS helps you sell what you make without the guesswork, with your food coming straight from nearby growers.

Applications for the 2026 cohort opened in late 2025, as 63 applications were submitted, another strong showing of interest in the LaunchLNK program. A round selection process followed, involving multiple external and internal LPED development staff, who then identified the six startups that stood above the rest year’s grants.

Rheam Medical is developing R-TIP, an automated trocar placement system designed to standardize and de-risk initial peritoneal access. By combining real-time visualization with advanced pressure sensing, R-TIP provides objective feedback during entry, helping make robotic surgery safer, more consistent, and easier to teach.

The six companies in the 2026 LaunchLNK cohort represent varied economic sectors, showing the diverse startup ecosystem in place throughout Lincoln and area.

The 2026 LaunchLNK companies are:

To learn more about the LaunchLNK Grant Program and its impact, please visit launchlnk.com.

DineU – DineU is a technology platform that enables universities and

CANYON ECHO DENTAL

CAPITOL EYE CARE & OPENINGS

ON THEI R GRAND

DAVINCI’S Celebrates 48 Years of Pizza, Family Tradition, and Community in Lincoln

This April, DAVINCI’S Italian Restaurant will celebrate 48 years of serving handcrafted pizza and Italian favorites to the Lincoln community. Since opening its doors in 1978, the Knudson familyowned restaurant has built a reputation for fresh ingredients, handcrafted dough made from scratch, and recipes rooted in Italian tradition.

To mark the milestone, DAVINCI’S will host a month-long celebration throughout April featuring festive decorations, special in-store experiences, and live music events on select dates. Guests are invited to stop in, enjoy their favorite pizza, and help celebrate nearly five decades of local flavor and community connection.

The anniversary celebration will run throughout the month of April, and guests are encouraged to follow DAVINCI’S on social media for updates on live music dates and additional anniversary surprises.

“Thank you, Lincoln for 48 wonderful years.” - The Knudson Family. For more information, please visit davincis.com.

LincolnBusinessesHaveaLocalAlternativefor Payment Processing with Lynette Sorrentino at Echelon Payment Solutions

Many business owners assume national payment platforms are their only option. Lynette Sorrentino, Local Payments and POS Specialist with Echelon Payment Solutions, is changing that conversation in Lincoln.

As a Lincoln-based payments expert and official Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Affinity Partner, Sorrentino provides a relationship-driven alternative to outof-state processors and automated service lines.

“Payment processing impacts cash flow, security, and long-term profitability,” Sorrentino said. “It shouldn’t be a faceless utility. It should be a strategic advantage.”

Through the Chamber’s Affinity Partner Program, Echelon Payment Solutions offers exclusive member benefits, including preferred member pricing, transparent rate structures with no hidden fees, and advanced security protections designed to safeguard revenue.

Unlike national platforms that rely on automated systems and remote support, Sorrentino works directly with business owners — providing in-person consultation, statement analysis, POS system guidance, and ongoing advocacy.

Her approach combines modern payment technology with local accountability, ensuring businesses have both innovation and access to a real person when it matters most.

“Lincoln businesses deserve a partner who understands this market and is invested in its future,” she said. “When you keep your payment strategy local, you keep your leverage local.”

For Chamber members and Lincoln-area businesses seeking a second opinion on their current processing setup, consultations are available. You can contact Lynette at (402) 250-7074 or lynette.sorrentino@ echelonpayments.com.

ALLO’s Managed IT Services: A Smarter Way to Support Growing Businesses

Who’s responsible for your technology when systems fail, security threats emerge, or your business starts to outgrow its current IT setup?

As technology, compliance requirements and work environments continue to evolve, businesses are turning to managed service providers (MSPs) for strategic support. MSPs go beyond fixing dayto-day IT problems by monitoring systems, strengthening cybersecurity, and helping organizations plan for what’s next. Cybersecurity remains one of the biggest concerns for small and mid-sized businesses. Managed IT services provide layered security, real-time threat detection, and employee training to reduce risk and protect sensitive data around the clock. Cost predictability is another key advantage. By outsourcing IT management, businesses gain access to a full team of experts without the expense of building and maintaining an inhouse department. Clearly defined service agreements help eliminate surprise costs and create more consistent budgeting.

MSPs also bring specialized expertise that’s difficult to maintain internally. From cloud solutions, compliance guidance to long-term technology planning, managed IT helps organizations stay ahead of change while remaining scalable as they grow. At ALLO Business, managed IT is designed to support businesses wherever they are— offering proactive monitoring, cybersecurity protection, and local support tailored to each organization’s needs. Looking for a smarter way to manage your IT environment? Learn more at AlloBusiness.com or call (844) 560-2556.

WildernessRidgeNamed2025KemperSports “Club of the Year”

Wilderness Ridge Club and Resort has been named KemperSports “Club of the Year” for 2025, the company’s highest honor for a private club property. The award was announced at the 2025 KemperSports Leadership Conference and recognizes one property from across KemperSports’ portfolio of more than 210 golf courses, private clubs, sports venues, and destination resorts nationwide.

“Recognition like this does not happen by accident—it is the result of a strong culture and consistent leadership across all departments,” said Drew Van Ert, General Manager of Wilderness Ridge.

Wilderness Ridge has served Lincoln as a destination for golf, dining, and private events since opening in 2001. The club features an 18-hole championship course and 9-hole executive track that wind through more than 6,000 trees with bent grass fairways and granite water features with materials sourced from Montana and brought to the Midwest to create a setting unlike anything else in Nebraska. The 37,000 square-foot Lodge serves as the centerpiece of the property, housing The Lodge Restaurant, event and banquet spaces, and member amenities including an aquatics center, fitness center, and tennis and pickleball complex.

Under KemperSports management, Wilderness Ridge has focused on delivering an elevated member experience through strong operational standards, strategic leadership, and a culture centered on hospitality. The Club continues to invest in facilities, programming, and team development to ensure an exceptional experience for members and guests alike.

For more information, visit wrccgolf.com or visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/wildernessridge.

Venue 5 Twenty-Two: A Premier Space for Corporate & Social Events in Lincoln

As wedding dates continue to fill the calendar, Venue 5 Twenty-Two is expanding its focus to include more corporate gatherings, social celebrations, and weekday events. With most weekend wedding dates already reserved, the venue is encouraging businesses, nonprofits, and community groups to take advantage of its versatile event space for meetings, luncheons, fundraisers, and special celebrations.

Designed with both professionalism and atmosphere in mind, Venue 5 Twenty-Two offers a modern, flexible setting that can accommodate a wide range of events. From corporate meetings and networking events to retirement parties, birthday celebrations, baby and bridal showers, class reunions, and watch parties, the space can be tailored to suit gatherings both large and small.

The venue features contemporary décor, customizable layouts, a full-service bar, and advanced AV capabilities—making it ideal for presentations, seminars, and community events. Guests also enjoy convenient amenities including ample onsite parking, WiFi, wall-mounted TVs, projector access, uplighting, lounge areas, and professional bartending staff.

Weekday availability provides organizations with added flexibility for daytime meetings, employee appreciation events, team-building gatherings, and fundraising luncheons. Clients also have the option to enhance their event with additional spaces and customized layouts to create an experience that fits their specific needs.

Conveniently located in Lincoln with easy access and ample parking, Venue 5 Twenty-Two continues to serve as a welcoming destination for local businesses, nonprofits, and community celebrations.

For booking information or availability, visit venue5twenty-two.com.

Training is a Core Value at inMOTION Auto Care

inMOTION Auto Care is proud to announce its team’s participation in the VISION Hi-Tech Training & Expo, held March 5–8, in Kansas City. As part of the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering accurate diagnostics, quality repairs, and exceptional customer service, the event provided advanced technical and management training on the latest automotive technology.

Continuous learning is a core value at inMOTION Auto Care. Every staff member is required to complete at least 60 hours of professional automotive training each year, and several team members exceeded 100 hours last year. That investment helps ensure customers receive up-to-date service on increasingly complex vehicles.

Today’s vehicles cannot be properly tested and repaired without advanced education and modern diagnostic equipment. Because inMOTION Auto Care invests in both, the shop stands behind its testing results. If the team performs the full testing procedure and recommends a repair that does not resolve the customer’s concern, the customer does not pay for that repair.

VISION is one of the industry’s premier training events, featuring more than 120 technical, management, and educator courses. For inMOTION Auto Care, attending is another way the shop continues to raise the bar for customers in Lincoln and surrounding communities.

Contact: inMOTION Auto Care, 131 Russwood Pkwy, Lincoln, NE 68505 | (402) 802-9380 | inmotionautocare.com

Lincoln Airport Enhances Online Booking Experience with Integrated Travel Planning Tools

Lincoln Airport (LNK) has enhanced its website with integrated travel planning tools designed to make it easier for travelers to compare options and book flights directly from their hometown airport. Visitors to LinconAirport.com can now search available routes, review schedules, and book flights directly from LNK using an integrated FlyMyAirport booking platform. Unlike thirdparty travel sites that default to larger regional airports, the tool automatically sets Lincoln as the departure point, allowing travelers to quickly see what is available close to home.

“Lincoln travelers have more options and competitive fares than many people realize,” said Rachel Barth, Director of Air Service Development and Strategic Marketing at Lincoln Airport. “Our goal is to provide a simple, transparent way for travelers to compare choices and see why flying from LNK can save both time and money.”

In addition to the booking platform, Lincoln Airport has partnered with Strategic Knowledge, an aviation data analytics firm, to launch an online cost comparison calculator available at lnk.expertassistant. org. The calculator allows travelers to compare driving distance, total travel time, parking costs and estimated fare differences.

The integrated booking platform and cost calculator operationalize best practices identified in Lincoln Airport’s strategic air service marketing plan by combining consumer convenience with data-driven insights that strengthen future route development efforts. Travelers can explore the booking platform and cost calculator at LincolnAirport.com.

The Back Nine Lincoln South Hosting Ladies Night to Connect Women Golfers

The Back Nine Lincoln South is inviting women golfers from across the community to join them for a special Ladies Night on Thursday, April 23. The event is designed to introduce more women in Lincoln to The Back Nine’s unique indoor golf experience while creating an opportunity to connect, learn, and enjoy the game in a welcoming and social environment.

Ladies Night aims to raise awareness of The Back Nine Lincoln South and the variety of opportunities available for women golfers, including annual memberships, ladies’ leagues, and lessons.

In addition to the event, The Back Nine Lincoln South is currently offering a special promotion for new members. Throughout the month of April, anyone who purchases a new annual Birdie or Eagle membership will receive their first month free. Each account manager associated with the membership will also receive a complimentary golf lesson with Matt Person. There is also 24/7 unlimited access for Birdie and Eagle members, including the exclusive members only private bay, discounted leagues and tournaments for members, and discounted lessons for members with PGA Professional, Matt Person, to help get you ready for the 2026 golf season.

The Back Nine Golf Lincoln South is located at 7501 S 15th St., Ste H. For more information, please visit thebackninegolf.com or call (402) 858-8871.

HamiltonHostsSigningEventswithHusker® Athletes at Industry Events

Better Business Bureau Opens Applications for 2026 Torch Awards for Ethics and Spark Awards

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has opened the application portal for its 2026 BBB Torch Awards for Ethics and Spark Awards, inviting businesses, nonprofits and leaders across the region to be recognized for outstanding ethical leadership.

The Torch Awards for Ethics represent the BBB’s most prestigious accolade, honoring organizations that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to integrity and trust in the marketplace. Open to all businesses and nonprofits regardless of BBB Accreditation status, applicants must operate in good standing and reflect a genuine dedication to ethical practices. There is no cost to apply, making the program accessible to organizations of all sizes. In each of the past two years, at least two local Torch Award recipients have gone on to earn International BBB Torch Awards for Ethics — a testament to the caliber of honorees emerging from the region.

The companion Spark Awards recognize individual business and nonprofit leaders who embody the Three C’s of Trust: Character, Culture, and Community. Earning a BBB Torch or Spark Award reinforces consumer confidence, organizational reputation, and signals to customers that ethics are central to how a business operates.

The application deadline for both awards is April 30. Businesses, nonprofits and community members can apply or submit a nomination at bbb.org/mwptorch or bbb.org/mwpspark. Don’t miss the opportunity to showcase your organization’s commitment to ethics — apply or nominate a deserving business or leader today. For applications and nominations, please visit bbb.org/mwptorch or bbb.org/mwpnomination.

Since announcing their new endeavor as the Official Business IT Partner of Nebraska Athletics nearly a year ago, Hamilton Business Technologies has held numerous events supporting and highlighting talented Husker athletes. Hamilton hosted Husker baseball athletes Jalen Worthley and Will Jesske, Husker Football athletes Jamir Conn and Rex Guthrie and track and field athletes Cami Merickel and Berlyn Schutz at various industry trade shows over the past few months. Most recently, in February, Hamilton hosted Husker volleyball setters Bergen Reilly and Campbell Flynn for a special autograph event at Pinnacle Bank Arena ahead of the Husker Men’s Basketball game against Illinois. During the events, attendees were able to meet the athletes while getting a photo and the athletes’ autograph.

“As a hardworking Husker athlete, I am thankful to have the support of our official sponsors like Hamilton Business Technologies. Along with being a huge support to student athletes, Hamilton works hard to connect businesses across the state with managed IT and cybersecurity solutions. Thank you for supporting Nebraska communities and Husker athletes!” posted Bergen Reilly via Instagram (@bergenreilly) on Jan. 31.

Hamilton also hosted Husker men’s basketball “Glue Guy” Sam Hoiberg at an industry trade show early this year. Hoiberg later posted via Instagram (@samhoiberg) that he was thankful for Hamilton supporting Nebraska communities and athletics. Hamilton Business Technologies is proud to support and foster the strong connection between local Nebraska communities and sharing meaningful moments with Husker Nation. Go Big Red®! More information available at hamiltonisbusiness.com.

Now Flying from Lincoln.

Savannah Pines Retirement Community Celebrates25YearswithRibbonCuttingand Grand Open House in Lincoln

Savannah Pines Retirement Community, the flagship community of Resort Lifestyle Communities, will celebrate its 25th Anniversary with a special Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Grand Open House Celebration on Wednesday, April 29.

The celebration will begin with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 12:30 p.m. in partnership with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, followed by a Grand Open House from 1 to 3 p.m. Guests will enjoy live entertainment by Bobby Gadoury, guided tours, refreshments, and the opportunity to connect with community leadership and team members.

Opened in 2001, Savannah Pines was the first Resort Lifestyle Communities location and helped establish a new standard for independent senior living. What began as a single vision in Lincoln has since grown into more than 60 communities nationwide — but Savannah Pines remains at the heart of the organization’s story.

From the beginning, Savannah Pines was designed to challenge traditional perceptions of retirement living. The goal was simple yet meaningful: to create a place where seniors could enjoy freedom, service excellence, and peace of mind in a warm, vibrant environment.

Today, Savannah Pines continues to offer an all-inclusive, resort-style lifestyle featuring chef-prepared dining, live-in management, 24/7 service, and spacious apartment homes all designed to support active, independent living.

For more information, visit SavannahPinesRetirement.com.

CrepeCaféNowBookingEventsandExpands

Presence at Twister Turn

Crepe Café, Nebraska’s beloved crepe food truck and a delicious addition to spring and summer events, is now available for event booking. Known for its fresh, madeto-order crepes and unique food truck experience, Crepe Café continues to grow its presence across the Lincoln community.

Crepe Café will be serving customers at Twister Turn, located at 2101 W Van Dorn St., operating during its regular days and hours. The location carries local significance, as it sits near the site of the former C & L Sweets, which was impacted by the wellknown tornado that moved through the area. Today, the space has been reimagined as a small food truck hub, featuring Crepe Café alongside C & L Sweets’ trailer and Los Tacos Hermanos.

Known as the first and only crepe food truck in Nebraska, Crepe Café offers a bold and versatile menu featuring both sweet and savory options. Popular selections include the Banana & Nutella Crepe and the Chicken Bacon Cheese Crepe, along with customizable options that allow guests to build their own creation from a variety of fresh toppings.

Crepe Café will also be featured as a food truck vendor at SIP Nebraska, taking place May 8–9 at Mahoney State Park.

While the business is currently transitioning to a new kitchen space, operations remain fully active through its food trailer and event bookings, ensuring customers can continue to enjoy their favorite crepes without interruption.

For more information on Crepe Café or to book for an event, visit crepe-café.com.

BodyWorkSeriesattheBodyShopLaunches at Fairlane Event Spaces

Regina Peterson, Marketing Director at Morrow Collision Center, recently launched the Body Work Series at the Body Shop at Fairlane Event Spaces, bringing wellnessfocused community events to Lincoln in a unique setting.

The series kicked off with a yoga and bodywork session that welcomed more than 30 attendees and focused on movement, mindfulness, and connection. The series was created to give people an opportunity to slow down, reconnect with themselves, and experience wellness in an unexpected and welcoming environment.

Fairlane Event Spaces, a one-of-a-kind event venue located inside working collision repair facilities, is available at Morrow Collision Center’s 84th & Adams and 14th & Pine Lake locations. The venue hosts a wide variety of events, including galas, fundraisers, business gatherings, birthday parties, and more.

The next Body Work Series event, Sound Bath Therapy, is scheduled for March 29. Future Body Work Series events will be announced on the Fairlane Event Spaces Facebook page.

Morrow Collision Center has long embraced opening its doors to the community, including its highly attended Indoor Trunk-or-Treat event that draws thousands of people each fall.

Those interested in hosting an event at Fairlane Event Spaces can visit the Events tab at morrowcollision.com to book their next gathering.

Dr. Keli Kolegraff of Katniss Clinic to Speak at Intercollegiate Research Symposium

Dr. Keli Kolegraff, MD, PhD, plastic and reconstructive surgeon at Katniss Clinic in Lincoln, has been invited to speak as the keynote speaker for the 2026 Intercollegiate Environmental and Health Sciences Research Symposium, a collaborative event hosted by Bryan College of Health Sciences and Union Adventist University.

The symposium will take place Friday, April 24, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Bryan College of Health Sciences East Campus, located at 1535 S. 52nd Street. The event brings together students, faculty, and researchers from both institutions to share research, explore emerging topics in health and environmental sciences, and encourage collaboration across disciplines.

Dr. Kolegraff’s keynote lecture, titled “More Than Skin Deep: The Science of Wound Healing,” will explore the biological processes involved in wound healing and highlight the intersection of scientific research and clinical practice. Drawing from her experience in plastic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Kolegraff will discuss how advances in research are shaping modern approaches to patient care and recovery.

As a physician-scientist, Dr. Kolegraff’s work focuses on improving outcomes through both innovative surgical techniques and a deeper understanding of the body’s natural healing mechanisms. Members of the public who are interested in attending the symposium are welcome. The event provides an opportunity to engage with local research initiatives and learn more about advancements in health science.

For more information about Katniss Clinic, visit katnissclinic.com.

Hands-On Construction Career Day Planned, Hosted By HBAL

The Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL) Careers in Construction Committee will once again host a hands-on Construction Career Day for area high school students on April 22. The event will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Haymarket Park in Lot 19 (south parking lot), 403 Line Drive Circle.

Organizers expect more than 300 students from Lincoln and surrounding communities to attend. The event will feature over 25 construction-related companies, giving students the opportunity to meet industry professionals and explore career paths in the building trades.

Throughout the day, students will participate in interactive demonstrations and hands-on activities designed to showcase the skills used in construction careers. Activities include a nail-driving competition, operating heavy equipment, building masonry walls, finishing concrete, and more.

Jereme Montgomery, one of the event’s coordinators said, “Construction Career Day allows high school students to meet professionals, try hands on activities, and see that a successful career in the construction industry is both achievable and rewarding.”

Construction Career Day is part of HBAL’s ongoing effort to promote careers in the building industry and connect students with local employers. Together, these efforts help build a stronger workforce while inspiring the next generation of construction professionals in the Lincoln community.

More information is available at hbal.org.

Lincoln Fashion Weekend Returns May 2–3 to Celebrate Midwest Creativity

Nebraska Business Hall of Fame Nomination Due April 10

Lincoln Fashion Weekend, founded by creative director and designer Makaylee Gayed, will return May 2–3, bringing designers, models, artists, and entrepreneurs for a weekend celebrating fashion, creativity, and community in Lincoln. The weekend will begin with the highly anticipated Runway Show on Saturday, May 2, where designers will debut their latest collections in a professionally produced fashion show experience. On Sunday, May 3, Lincoln Fashion will host a Pop-Up Shop, giving the opportunity to meet designers, shop their collections, and support local creative businesses. As a designer herself, Gayed saw firsthand the need for more opportunities for local creatives to showcase their work and grow their brands without. That vision led to the creation of Lincoln Fashion Weekend, which has quickly become a hub for collaboration among designers, stylists, photographers, models, and local businesses.

Founded to elevate creative talent across Nebraska and the Midwest, Lincoln Fashion Weekend provides a platform where designers, stylists, photographers, models, and entrepreneurs can connect, collaborate, and share their work with the community.

“Lincoln Fashion Weekend was created to bring people together and highlight the incredible talent we have in the Midwest,” said Gayed. “Our goal is to create a space where creatives can be seen, supported, and celebrated.”

Tickets for the May 2 runway show are currently on sale. For more information and ticket details, visit lincoln-fashion.com/ getinvolved or follow Lincoln Fashion on social media.

The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry, in cooperation with the University of NebraskaLincoln College of Business, established the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame in 1992 to recognize Nebraska business leaders whose contributions to Nebraska’s economy and business environment deserve public recognition.

Each year, nominations are solicited from the statewide business community, professional associations and academic institutions. Honorees are selected for recognition by the NE Chamber and celebrated at its annual Nebraska Business Hall of Fame Banquet. Nominees may be either living or deceased individuals who have contributed to the growth, success and prestige of business in Nebraska. Eligible nominees may come from large or small businesses, corporations, or any sector of the business community. Individuals who have made significant contributions to the free enterprise system and have been associated with business in Nebraska will be considered.

Honorees are not required to currently hold the position in which they achieved the accomplishments for which they are being recognized. While current Nebraska residency is not required, the nominee’s contributions must have had a meaningful impact on Nebraska’s business economy.

Nominations only need to be submitted once. If a nominee is not selected in a given year, their nomination will remain under consideration for future years. Nominations are due by April 10, 2026. You can access the nomination page through the NE Chamber website at nechamber. com or through their Facebook at facebook.com/nechamber.

Rose Cat Coffee Co. Introduces Mobile Espresso Bar for Events and Catering

Rose Cat Coffee Co. is expanding its community impact and coffee offerings with the launch of its Mobile Espresso Bar, bringing handcrafted drinks and a meaningful mission to weddings, corporate events, and community gatherings.

The new coffee cart allows Rose Cat Coffee Co. to serve fresh espresso drinks and specialty beverages directly at events while continuing to promote its mission of creating employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The mobile espresso bar features a full menu of café favorites, including espresso, americanos, lattes, mochas, and dirty chai lattes, along with non-coffee options like chai, Italian sodas, lemonade, and hot tea. Event hosts can personalize their service with signature drinks, custom menu displays, and branded cups, creating a memorable and interactive addition to weddings, celebrations, and corporate functions.

Rose Cat Coffee Co.’s mobile service includes professional baristas, full setup and cleanup, and unlimited drinks during the booked service window, making it a convenient option for event planners looking to elevate their guest experience. They are also now a preferred vendor for Venue 5 Twenty-Two and Make It Pop. To learn more about booking the Rose Cat Mobile Espresso Bar for an upcoming event, visit rosecatcoffee.com or follow @rosecatcoffee on social media.

Center Sphere Hosts “Back in Control: Productivity, Habits and Discipline for Busy Professionals” with Ty Betka

Center Sphere will host an upcoming professional development event, “Back in Control: Productivity, Habits and Discipline for Busy Professionals,” presented in partnership with leadership, performance, and business coach Ty Betka.

The event will take place on Wednesday, April 29 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. The morning will begin with open networking and coffee from 9 to 9:30 a.m., followed by Betka’s presentation and Q&A from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Location details will be announced soon.

Ty Betka is a leadership, performance, and business coach who helps professionals build the discipline, habits, and execution systems that lead to real business results. His message is practical, structured, and focused on helping business owners and professionals become more disciplined, more focused, and more productive so they can grow their business and get better results from their time.

His credibility comes from real-world performance environments. He played Division 1 football at Nebraska, serves in the U.S. Army National Guard, and built a career in high-stakes sales and business, generating over $10M in sales and managing major business accounts.

This event is for Center Sphere members but guests are welcome free of charge. Please RSVP by April 22 at eventbrite.com/e/ back-in-control-productivity-habits-and-discipline-for-busyprofessionals-tickets-1985085464060?utm-campaign=social&utmcontent=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utmterm=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl.

For questions, contact Ashley Hinze at ashley@centersphere.com.

Women

in Business Registration Now Open for April 28 Event

PVIIndustriesJoinsDutton-LainsonCompany to Become PVI Manufacturing LLC

Registration is now open for the Women in Business event, hosted in partnership with the Nebraska College of Business and Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. This inspiring afternoon of connection, leadership, and meaningful conversation will take place Tuesday, April 28, at the Lied Center for Performing Arts.

The program runs from 1 to 4 p.m., followed by a cocktail reception from 4 to 5 p.m., offering attendees additional time to network and connect with fellow professionals.

This year’s keynote speaker is Erin Stafford, bestselling author of The Type A Trap: Five Mindset Shifts to Beat Burnout and Transform Your Life. A dynamic speaker and leader, Stafford brings insights from working with Fortune 100 executives, Olympians, and top creatives. Her message focuses on achieving sustainable success through energy, purpose, and balance.

Attendees will also enjoy a panel discussion featuring Women in Business leaders, with additional details to be announced soon.

Women in Business continues to bring together professionals from across the Lincoln community for an engaging and empowering experience.

To register or learn more, visit: lcoc.com/event/13508280-womenin-business.

PVI Manufacturing LLC is pleased to share an important update regarding Prairie View Industries, Inc. (“PVI”).

PVI has been acquired by DuttonLainson Company and will now operate as PVI Manufacturing LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dutton-Lainson Company. The business will continue operating in Fairbury, Nebraska, and they will continue referring to the company as PVI or PVI Manufacturing.

Founded in 1991, PVI has earned a strong reputation for manufacturing high-quality aluminum wheelchair ramps and stainlesssteel food service equipment. The former owner chose to sell the business as part of a planned retirement, with the clear intention that PVI continue operating and serving customers from Fairbury. They are proud to carry that legacy forward. What does this mean for customers? Simply put - business as usual. The same products, quality, and service you rely on will continue, with no changes to day-to-day operations and a continued focus on reliability, responsiveness, and long-term relationships.

What does this mean for vendor partners? Their intent is a smooth transition with no disruption. There are no planned changes to operations or sourcing, and they remain committed to strong, reliable vendor relationships supported by long-term family ownership.

Dutton-Lainson Company, headquartered in Hastings, Nebraska, has been a family-owned business since 1886, representing nearly 140 years of stable ownership and operational continuity across multiple manufacturing, wholesale, retail, and commercial printing divisions. For more information, contact Ferry Diaz at (402) 729-4055 or at ferry@pvimanufacturing.com.

(402) 625-6578

www.insuranceonpoint.com

by Krista Dittman Agent, Individual & Senior Benefits

How Moving Affects Health Insurance

Starting April 1, On Point Insurance Agency will be in a new office located at 4535 Normal Blvd, Suite 232! Planning for this move has inspired this column. If you are planning to move into a different county, zip code or state, updating your health insurance is an important item on your moving to-do list.

If you have Medicare, moving can affect your plan availability as well as your rate. If you have a Medicare Supplement and move to a different county or state, you will likely see a rate adjustment even though your plan remains the same. Companies do this because the actuarial risk varies in different geographic areas.

For Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription drug plan members, moving into a different county or state will create a 60-day Special Enrollment Period that will allow (or force) you to make a different plan choice due to plan availability. If you plan to continue care with your current providers, please check that those providers will be in network with the plans in your new zip code–never assume it will “just be alright.”

If you currently have a plan through the Affordable Care Act (ACA), you will also have a 60-day Special Enrollment period during which time you could potentially change your plan. Moving within the state of Nebraska may create an issue where your current plan’s network is no longer available, and you may need to establish relationships with new providers. If you are moving to a different state, it will be important to time the beginning of your new plan with your move so that you have more than just emergency care available to you in your new state. This entails starting an entirely new application on the Marketplace and then terminating your old application, so careful coordination of your termination and new effective dates are crucial.

If you have a group plan through your employer and remain with your current employer, it is possible that you will continue with your current plan. If you leave your current employer to start with a new company in a different county or state, you may have a COBRA offer to continue with your current plan for up to 18 months, or until your benefits at your new employer begin. It is also possible to bridge the benefit gap between employers by choosing an ACA plan or short-term plan that may be less expensive than COBRA.

The agents at On Point Insurance Agency are licensed in twelve states and are here to help with your health insurance choices!

STAR CITY SIX DON

Don Mlnarik

LIFETIME STONE RESTORATION

Don Mlnarik is the owner and operator at Lifetime Stone Restoration.

BRAND GUIDELINES

Tell us a little about your business. - Lifetime Stone Restoration can clean, polish and seal natural stone surfaces such as marble, travertine, limestone and granite and even manufactured products like terrazzo. We don’t only do floors but also stairs, counters, walls, and have even repaired some statues and fountains. We can clean tile and grout, seal the grout and can also change the color of the grout without the expense and downtime of replacing it. If grout is missing we can patch in what is missing. Showers that are tiled with ceramic or stone can be cleaned removing the soap and hard water buildup, replace the caulking, seal the grout and remove any mildew.

How did you get started in the business? - Being a homeowner, I noticed that when I was looking for someone to clean and repair some chips on my granite counter, there was no one to do it. When I researched further, I found a lot of installation companies but no one that could restore the stone to look like new where it is already installed. When I started this company, I worked in an office building that had marble floors. I remember the facility manager stating they had to hire a company from St. Louis to refinish them since the janitorial company could not do this specialized work. I knew then that no one in the Omaha area was capable of doing this work which is why I started my company.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?Even after being in business for 18 years, clients still are not aware of the services I provide. Most of my work is a specialty so unless someone knows what to search for they have a hard time finding my company. Another big challenge is trying to keep up with all the new manufactured materials and new stone being introduced. I have been looking for ways to make the necessary repairs if an issue arises for a homeowner or business owner.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have been married to my wife for over 25 years and she was instrumental in helping me start this business and supporting me when I left my corporate job to build a business from the ground up. We have a son attending college at Grand Canyon University in Phoenix and a daughter finishing up high school at Skutt and attending Iowa State this fall.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I am a huge sports fan and don’t think I would want to be a coach due to the stress and hours but being television host on ESPN or Fox Sports would be a dream come true.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - When I have time, I try to help with the Knights of Columbus whenever I can. I enjoy helping with the fish fry’s at St. Wenceslaus during Lent.

What is your favorite movie? - I loved The Usual Suspects. I have a talent that my family hates to where I can predict a lot of what will happen in a TV show or movie. The Usual Suspects was the first movie that I had no clue it would end like it did.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - The best way to contact is visiting our website at lifetimestone. com and fill out the contact form. This will allow us to review what you are wanting done before we speak on the phone. If you would like, feel free to contact us also at (402) 916-1700.

STAR CITY SIX KRAGEN

Kragen Graham

VIVIAN CLOUGH AGENCY

Kragen Graham is an Authorized Agent at Vivian Clough Agency, LLC.

Tell us a little about your business. - I help AAA member families save money while increasing coverage for their home and auto insurance needs.

How did you get started in the business? - A long-time friend encouraged me to pursue insurance back in 2010. I began marketing insurance products to agents across the U.S., which led me to obtain my Life & Health and Property & Casualty insurance licenses and build a multifaceted career in sales and customer service.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?Learning patience with my career goals and understanding that success doesn’t happen overnight.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- This milestone is still ahead—leading my own agency one day.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have a beautiful daughter, Haley, who recently graduated from Creighton University’s nursing program. My mother and stepfather are happily retired in Des Moines, while my father and stepmother are retired in Arizona. I also have two brothers who live in Omaha.

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

- The birth of my daughter was a pivotal moment that changed my life for the better. Love you, Haley!

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love spending time on the golf course.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people don’t know? - I will always help anyone in need.

Who inspires you? - My father, who is in the Gymnastics Hall of Fame, and my brother, who is in the Video Game Hall of Fame.

What is your favorite quote or best piece of advice you’ve received? - “Make today better than yesterday and tomorrow better than today.”

If you could choose one descriptive word to be remembered by, what would it be? - Caring.

If you could have a superpower, what would it be? - My favorite superhero is Gambit from X-Men, so something involving agility and strategy.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Awareness.

Which talent would you most like to have? - I’m grateful for the talents I already have.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Professional soccer player.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and why? - Lincoln City Mission. Everyone deserves food, shelter, and warmth.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?Freakonomics by Stephen J. Dubner and Steven Levitt.

What is your favorite movie? - Happy Gilmore. What is your favorite TV show? - Game of Thrones.

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Shokunin Sushi and Japanese Cuisine.

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

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

- My phone number is (402) 513-6120 and my email is kgraham1@ acg.aaa.com.

Build Your Vision, Build With Quality

STAR CITY SIX RANDY

Randy Hawthorne DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION

Randy Hawthorne is the VP Community Engagement at Downtown Lincoln Association

Tell us a little about your business. - Beyond keeping downtown beautiful, the Downtown Lincoln Association exists to make downtown a place people want to be. My role focuses on activating people, businesses and creatives to shape a downtown that acts like a third place where you feel welcome, at home and where people know your name. That shows up through our Champions program built with people that care about downtown.

How did you get started in the business? - My first job off the farm was managing a miniature golf course. That’s where I learned HR, marketing, ROI and horticulture. From there, I landed at Blockbuster video. My loose waiving of fees for rewinding was not the reason for the demise of the organization. My first big boy job involved making copies at AlphaGraphics and then Al Gore created the internet. That’s what really set my trajectory.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?Answering these questions.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I’ve had a lot of good wins. But I really enjoyed opening the Foundry Community, including learning how to run and differentiate a coffee shop. Now I get to do the stuff I loved at Foundry on a much larger scale.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - With this position, even days off become work moments. Day trips that involve adventure dining and maybe some photography. But even then, I’m thinking about what I can bring back to Lincoln. Any time spent with friends and family in a less public facing environment is a win.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - If I told ya… then everyone would know.

Who inspires you? - Young, ambitious people in general. It makes me want to do better.

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

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Teleporting. I know the best part is the journey but when you’re a just-in-time guy, it would be great to push a button and just be there. Especially when you keep a schedule like mine. People say they see me everywhere. There’s some truth to that.

Which talent would you most like to have? - Hand-eye coordination. I was looking the other way when they were handing that out.

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

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I’ve helped hundreds of worthy nonprofits in my career. While so many are worthy, Launch Leadership has been the throughline to who I am today. Leadership Lincoln and Updowntowners gave me the key to the city. So those hold a special place in my heart.

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - In my position, I can’t play favorites. Anywhere downtown is the safe answer.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - randy@downtownlincoln.org or 402-441-0024. Seriously, I’m up for a beverage of your choice anytime, especially if you want to talk about

STAR CITY SIX KATE

Kate A. Engel NEBRASKA INNOVATION CAMPUS

Kate A. Engel is the Executive Director at Nebraska Innovation Campus.

Tell us a little about your business. - Nebraska Innovation Campus (NIC) is designed to facilitate new and in-depth partnerships between the University of Nebraska and private sector businesses. NIC is adjacent to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and is dedicated to advancing knowledge and driving economic impact by facilitating collaboration among industry partners, researchers and the community. Through state-of-the-art facilities, unique resources and a commitment to sustainability, NIC empowers partners to translate ideas into impactful solutions that benefit society locally, regionally and globally. By nurturing a culture of creativity, talent and resources, NIC strives to be a premier hub where ideas flourish, partnerships thrive and innovations shape the future. NIC is home to and welcomes companies of all sizes. Called NIC Partners, organizations leasing space at NIC are a mix of startups, medium-sized companies and larger companies. The diverse mix of companies located on the campus creates and builds a culture of innovation and creativity. How did you get started in the business? - I began my career at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in the Department of Chemistry as a graduate student recruiter. During my time with the Department of Chemistry, I was very involved in the University Association for Administrative Development (UAAD) and began to grow my network across campus. When Nebraska Innovation Campus was announced, and a role with the organization was created, a university contact shared the job posting with me and encouraged me to apply. Dan Duncan had been named the founding Executive Director of Nebraska Innovation Campus, and he hired me to be part of the small team responsible for getting Nebraska Innovation Campus up and running. I am forever grateful for Dan’s leadership and mentorship, as I learned a great deal from him about building and maintaining collaborations, relationships, facilities, resources, programs, and events that drive a research park and its culture of innovation.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband, Scott, serves as the Director of Technical Theatre at Lincoln Southwest High School. We share our home with our dog Finn, a three-year-old Golden Retriever mix.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - Growing up, my parents owned and operated an auction and real estate company in Southwest Iowa. One Saturday a month, I still go home and clerk an auction (usually an estate sale) for the family that currently owns and operates the auction company. It keeps me connected to my hometown area, and a business and people I have always loved.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I enjoy mystery novels, light-hearted reads, and memoirs/autobiographies. I am a big fan of Victoria Houston’s Loon Lake Mystery Series and her Lew Ferris Series. I’ve recently read Tom Lake (by Ann Patchett), Up Home (by Ruth J. Simmons), and Jess and Norma (by Jessica Asquith and Norma Burton), and have enjoyed them all.

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - We are fortunate to have so many wonderful local restaurants in Lincoln, and one of my favorites is El Potro. The food is wonderful, and the staff is amazing. I also love The Mill Coffee & Tea and am a frequent patron of The Mill Coffee & Bistro located on Nebraska Innovation Campus! If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - To learn more about Nebraska Innovation Campus, please visit innovate.unl.edu. To contact me directly, please email kate. engel@unl.edu.

STAR CITY SIX NATALIE

Natalie Leon VISITING ANGELS

Natalie Leon is the Owner of Visiting Angels, an in-home care agency serving older adults and families

Tell us a little about your business. - At Visiting Angels, our mission is to help older adults remain safely and comfortably in their home. We provide compassionate in-home care that allows older adults to maintain their independence while receiving the support they need. Our caregivers assist with everyday needs like bathing, dressing, meal preparation, medications, mobility, companionship, and homemaker services. Our unique approach personalizes matching processes between caregivers and clients. We match clients to a caregiver who fits their needs and personality. Our ultimate goal is for older adults to remain independent while families know their loved one is supported, respected, and able to continue living life in the place they call home.

How did you get started in the business? - My journey began in high school when I started working as a CNA and medication aide caring for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. I quickly realized this was where I was meant to be, and caring for adults became my calling. These are individuals who have built our communities, raised families, and contributed so much. I went on to earn my degree from Nebraska Wesleyan University and a master’s degree in Health Care Administration. I gained experience in assisted living, memory and home care, and the Alzheimer’s Association, where I provided education and support to families and the community. I was inspired to open Visiting Angels so I could focus on helping older adults remain safely in their homes while receiving compassionate, dignified care.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Opening Visiting Angels and building a team of compassionate caregivers who share the same passion has been incredibly meaningful. Seeing the impact quality care has on clients and their families is something I never take for granted. I’m also very proud to teach Introduction to Gerontology at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where I have the opportunity to inspire future healthcare professionals to advocate for older adults.

Tell us a little about your family. - I wouldn’t be able to do this without the support of my loving family. My wonderful husband, Shane, is incredibly supportive of my busy schedule, and we share life with our fur baby, Zeke, a Westie who is our Visiting Angels mascot. My parents, Dan and Diane, with my brother Elliot, have always been a huge part of my life. They understand that the work I do is more than a career for me. It is something I truly care about and feel called to do.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - Many people in the community know Zeke, our Visiting Angels mascot. Zeke was trained as a pet therapy dog and spent years bringing comfort and joy to our clients and senior communities. Although he is now mostly retired, he still enjoys visiting a few clients and community events and has a special way of brightening people’s days.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with? - The Alzheimer’s Association is very close to my heart because of the support and education they provide to families navigating memory loss.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - You can contact us at (402) 735-0999 or at visitingangels. com/lincoln.

STAR CITY SIX

ABBY

Abby Rose CAPITAL CIGAR LOUNGE

Abby Rose is the bar manager at Capital Cigar Lounge.

Tell us a little about your business. - Capital Cigar Lounge is a locally owned and operated cigar and cocktail lounge. Our goal is to give our guests exception service and premium offers. We strive to give guests mini vacations, and be a pillar of relaxation and comfort.

How did you get started in the business? - I got started in the business because Tony Goins, our owner, had recruited me from the Wicked Rabbit, a craft cocktail speakeasy in Omaha. I’m extremely grateful they saw my talents, and wanted me to run their bar program.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?Figuring out what kind of bartender I truly wanted to be. I started my journey in dive bars, moved into managing music venues, and along the way, I felt a bit lost about where I fit in. It wasn’t until I discovered my passion for craft cocktails and mixology that everything clicked. I wanted to create a bar program that emphasizes quality ingredients and consistency, allowing me to showcase my love for the craft.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- My most important achievement was being selected as one of four female bartenders for a Women’s Month collaboration in Omaha. We crafted cocktails featuring women-owned spirits or female head distillers, each named after remarkable women in history. I chose Edwina Justice, the first African American female locomotive engineer for the Union Pacific, who is from Omaha. After reaching out to her, we formed a connection and now speak regularly. This experience not only honored her legacy but also showcased the strength of women in our industry.

Tell us a little about your family. - I’m the youngest of five in a close-knit family. My single mother worked full-time and went to school, which taught me the value of hard work. Our strong family bonds have always provided support.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love taking walks with my two dogs and getting lost in a good book. I also enjoy crafting in my junk journal, which allows me to express my creativity.

Who inspires you? - My biggest inspiration is my mother; her drive and dedication have shaped who I am today. As a bartender, I look up to Leonardo DiMonriva, who runs the Educated Barfly on Instagram. He’s a phenomenal mixologist and incredibly informative, which motivates me to improve my craft.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” This quote reminds me to make the best of every situation and not wait for the perfect moment.

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

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Youth-targeted art therapy. I believe using creativity to help young people express themselves and heal would be incredibly rewarding and impactful.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Frida Kahlo. Her passion for art and life, along with her unique perspective on identity and resilience would make for a fascinating conversation.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Readers can reach me at my work email, abby@capitacigar. com, or just drop by the lounge to say hi!

First State Bank Nebraska Announces Tanner Smith’s Promotion to EVP, Lending Strategy Officer

First State Bank Nebraska is pleased to announce the promotion of Tanner Smith to Executive Vice President, Lending Strategy Officer. He has also been appointed to the bank’s Executive Committee.

In his role, Tanner will continue serving customers as a lender while leading strategic initiatives focused on lending growth and market development. He will identify new opportunities, industries, and niche markets that align with First State’s long-term vision, while supporting and mentoring lenders across the organization. Tanner’s leadership, industry knowledge, and commitment to relationshipbased banking have played an important role in the bank’s continued growth. This promotion recognizes his dedication to their customers, his support of fellow lenders, and the meaningful impact he continues to make across the organization.

About First State Bank Nebraska: First State Bank Nebraska is a $1 billion bank with 150 employees and 18 locations throughout eastern Nebraska. Built on local roots, First State is committed to growing with the communities it serves. To learn more, visit 1FSB. BANK or call (402) 421-3535.

HoriSun Hospice Names Nancy Hulewicz Executive Director

HoriSun Hospice is pleased to announce that Nancy Hulewicz has been named Executive Director at HoriSun Hospice effective March 1. Hulewicz will continue in her current role as Office Manager while also assuming the responsibilities of Executive Director.

Nancy brings years of experience in healthcare administration caring for the HoriSun Hospice team. She has served as Office Manager and senior administrative leader at HoriSun Hospice since 2009, overseeing the organization’s administrative and financial operations, regulatory compliance, human resources, and policy development.

Current shareholders of HoriSun Hospice include Bob Bleicher, M.D., Susan Burkey, and Nancy Hulewicz. Of the announcement, Dr. Bob Bleicher states, “Nancy’s knowledge of hospice operations and her steady leadership have been instrumental to HoriSun Hospice for many years. Her dedication to maintaining the highest standards of care and compliance makes her exceptionally well-suited to serve as Executive Director.” Susan Burkey adds, “It is with great respect to have appointed Nancy Hulewicz as Executive Director of HoriSun Hospice. Nancy is trustworthy in all areas of our company. Nancy continues to put her best foot forward whether administratively running the office or taking great care of our employees. Nancy enables HoriSun to be the best hospice company it can be.”

For more information about HoriSun Hospice, please call (402) 4846444 or visit horisunhospice.com.

Strictly Business Welcomes Joy Lerch to the Editorial Team

Strictly Business Magazine is excited to welcome Joy Lerch to the editorial team. Lerch will be joining the team as a copywriter, bringing her passion for storytelling, creativity, and the support of local businesses to the publication.

She is currently a senior at Nebraska Wesleyan University, graduating in May 2026 with a B.A. in Psychology and minors in Communication Studies and Art Studio. Lerch also works as a peer writing tutor for NWU students, reflecting her love for personable interaction combined with written work. She is excited to utilize her written communication skills to explore the world of Nebraska’s local businesses with Strictly Business readers.

“This opportunity will give me a voice to share all the great things the local business community has to offer,” she reflects. “I still have a lot to learn as I take this step in my professional life, but coming in with an open mind makes learning and growing a fun and valuable experience. There’s nowhere to go but up!”

Lerch’s academic experience with research, collaboration, and art makes her a fresh addition to the team. The staff at Strictly Business welcomes Joy Lerch and looks forward to her engagement with the magazine and its clients. To contact Joy Lerch or other editorial staff, please email editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com.

Elite 360 Cleaning Solutions Welcomes Ryan Rockel as Chief Operating Officer

Elite 360 Cleaning Solutions, a locally owned commercial cleaning and janitorial company serving Lincoln and surrounding communities, has announced the addition of Ryan Rockel as Chief Operating Officer. The leadership expansion reflects the company’s continued growth and long-term commitment to delivering dependable service to local businesses.

Rockel brings operational leadership experience and a strong focus on systems, team development, and quality control. As COO, he will oversee daily operations, strengthen internal processes, and enhance communication standards to ensure clients consistently receive the level of service Elite 360 is known for.

The addition of a dedicated operations leader reinforces the company’s mission to raise the standard of commercial cleaning in Lincoln. With improved oversight systems and a structured quality control approach, Elite 360 continues to support offices, medical facilities, schools, banks, and commercial properties with reliable, relationship-driven service.

“Our promise is simple: consistent quality, clear communication, and a spotless workplace, every time,” said owner Chad Rockel. “Adding Ryan to our leadership team allows us to strengthen that promise and build a company designed for sustainable growth right here in our community.”

For more information about Elite 360 Cleaning Solutions, visit elite360clean.com or call (402) 480-8654.

Sumner Place Welcomes New Receptionist

Heather Stewart

In February 2026, a new smiling face appeared at Sumner Place’s front desk. Join Sumner Place in welcoming Heather Stewart as the new Guest Relations Coordinator!

Heather comes equipped with the expertise of the culinary department in the Lincoln Public School system, as well as being a United States Military Veteran. She is passionate about Sumner Place’s mission to provide quality life and quality care for seniors. Heather is a very proud mom of five and is already beginning to form connections with the residents, their families, and staff.

Please welcome Heather to the Sumner Place team!

At Sumner Place, their mission, Dignity in Life, is the heart of everything they do. They believe their unwavering commitment to excellence will allow them to change the view of long-term care.

For more information on Sumner Place Care’s open positions, visit sumnerplacecare.com. You can also visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/sumnerplace.

Wilderness Ridge Club & Resort Announces Four New

Team Members

Lincoln Community Foundation Welcomes New Board Members

Wilderness Ridge Club & Resort is expanding its team with the addition of four professionals. These new team members will help enhance the club’s event offerings, strengthen community connections, and continue positioning Wilderness Ridge as a premier destination for member experiences in the region.

Melanie Maynard, the new director of Event Sales & Marketing, brings extensive sales leadership building high-performing teams and strong relationships across the corporate and social markets. In her role, Maynard will oversee event sales and marketing strategy across the club’s full event portfolio, strengthening community partnerships and expanding Wilderness Ridge’s community presence. Kaitlyn Ryan brings experience in social events and venue sales to the role of Social Sales Manager, helping clients plan and execute milestone celebrations and gatherings. Ryan will lead social event sales initiatives, working with clients to design weddings, private celebrations, and social gatherings.

Taylor Tyndall will be the new Marketing & Communications Manager at Wilderness Ridge. She brings experience in public relations, event coordination, and multi-platform content creation, along with a strong background in the community. Tyndall will lead marketing and communications initiatives for the club, focusing on enhancing brand visibility while supporting member engagement and continued growth. With extensive hospitality and event coordination experience, Joe Delp proudly embraces his role as the club’s “Director of Fun,” otherwise known as the Member Event Coordinator. He will focus on developing programming and events for members of all ages, helping strengthen the sense of connection and community that defines the Wilderness Ridge experience. For more information on Wilderness Ridge, visit wrccgolf.com.

The Lincoln Community Foundation welcomes six new members to its board of directors: Yohance Christie, City of Lincoln; Shannon Harner, Nebraska Investment Finance Authority; Alyssa Martin, Nelnet; Max Rodenburg, NEBCO, Inc. and The Abel Foundation; John Skretta, Lincoln Public Schools and David Spinar, RBC Wealth Management.

Officers for 2026 include board chair, Lauren Pugliese, M-One Capital; vicechair, John Olsson, Olsson; treasurer, Susie Keisler-Munro, Assurity; secretary, Brett Ebert, Ball, Loudon, Ebert, & Brostrom, LLC; and past chair, Mark Hesser, Pinnacle Bank.

About Lincoln Community Foundation

Through partnerships and collaboration, Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF) facilitates positive change for the common good.

Since 1955, LCF has been privileged to be part of many wonderful legacies by connecting donor generosity to local needs. With gifts of all sizes from thousands of donors over the years, the assets of LCF have grown to more than $280 million. LCF has distributed more than $295.7 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of residents.

Lincoln Community Foundation is accredited by the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations®.

For more information, please visit lcf.org.

A Legacy of Leadership: Honoring the Retirement of Rich Bredenkamp and J. Michael Rierden

After decades of steady leadership and commitment, Lincoln Federal Savings Bank announces the retirement of two longstanding board members: Rich Bredenkamp and J. Michael Rierden. Together, they represent more than 100 years of combined experience in banking, law, and community development.

Rich Bredenkamp’s banking career spans 54 years, including 35 years with Lincoln Federal. Serving as Senior Vice President of Administration and later as a member of the Board of Directors, Rich was a trusted leader through decades of growth and change.

A graduate of Kearney State College (now the University of Nebraska at Kearney), Rich built his career on a simple belief: banking is about people.

“We come in every day and the people that we take care of give you an education every day,” he reflected.

Known for his loyalty, work ethic, and technical skill, Rich valued the relationships he built with employees and customers alike. He often credited his mentor Jerry Maddox for teaching him the fundamentals of the banking business.

His advice for the next generation is straightforward: “Stick to the knitting. The business is basic. Stick to the basics and continue to provide service and support. The big picture takes care of itself.”

J. Michael Rierden served on Lincoln Federal’s Board for 53 years, including time as Chairman.

A graduate of the University of Nebraska College of Law, Mike built a distinguished career as a real estate attorney specializing in contracts, deeds, title work, estate planning, and land use planning.

His experience translated naturally to one of the Bank’s unique specialties - lot sales and land development. With his great expertise in title examinations and land history, Mike provided thoughtful guidance that supported positive growth and community development.

Throughout his legal career, he worked closely with planning committees, city councils and county boards to ensure projects were well-planned and beneficial to the communities they served. He takes great pride in knowing that the decisions he played a part in helped our banking communities grow into the cities they are today.

His advice for the next generation:

“Listen. Don’t be afraid to present your views,” Mike advises. “If you don’t speak up now, you may regret it later. Work with people.”

Both Rich and Mike served during periods of significant change in banking, always remaining grounded in service, steady leadership, and long-term thinking.

As a mutual, depositor-owned institution, Lincoln Federal’s strength has always been its people. Leaders like Rich and Mike helped shape that strength for generations.

Lincoln Federal thanks them for their extraordinary service and wish them the very best in retirement.

For more information about Lincoln Federal Savings Bank, visit lincolnfed.com or call (402) 474-1400. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

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Wes Aust Celebrates 6 Years with Willet Construction

Willet Construction celebrates Project Manager, Wes Aust, on six years of dedicated work this April.

Wes originally started with Willet Construction in 2014. He left in 2016 and joined the service, then came back in 2020. He started off as an Apprentice Carpenter and has worked his way up to Project Manager. He now leads any type of project the team might throw at him, from a bathroom remodel to an addition, interiors and exteriors.

He is well-versed in the “Willet Way” of doing things, making customer satisfaction the goal.

Willet Construction is known for its commitment to quality, precision and customer-first service, and Wes helps their work align with the company’s mission to deliver outstanding results on every project.

For more information, you can visit willetconstruction.com.

You can also find them on Facebook at facebook.com/willetconst.

Harrison Stark Joins FNBO Commercial Banking Team in Lincoln

FNBO is pleased to welcome Harrison Stark as a Senior Advisor on its Lincoln commercial banking team. He has over a decade of experience helping businesses grow and succeed in the financial sector.

“I was drawn to FNBO for its culture and commitment to employees and communities,” Stark said. “It’s a great opportunity to work for a bank that values the same things I value.”

As a commercial banker, Stark will focus on developing strong relationships with local businesses and commercial clients while delivering FNBO’s full suite of tailored financial solutions.

“I look forward to helping local businesses thrive and being part of this team for many years to come,” he said. “Helping clients accomplish their goals is what I find most rewarding.”

Stark earned a degree in history and political science from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and began his banking career during college as a teller and personal banker. He brings more than 11 years of commercial banking experience with him to FNBO.

Beyond his professional work, Stark is active in the community, serving on the Lincoln Goodwill board of directors and previously volunteering with Junior Achievement to teach financial literacy to elementary students.

Outside of work, he is an avid runner training for the Lincoln Marathon, enjoys golf, supports Husker sports, and is a devoted husband and father of two.

For more information about FNBO, visit fnbo.com.

UNICO Group Announces Addition of Fourteen New Shareholders

UNICO, a leading independent insurance brokerage, is pleased to announce the addition of fourteen new shareholders. This year’s class represents a broad set of disciplines across the organization, reflecting UNICO’s continued commitment to developing leaders, investing in its people, and strengthening long-term sustainability.

Neal Lyons, Board Chair, shared that the expansion of the shareholder group reflects UNICO’s continued focus on developing strong leadership. “As UNICO continues to grow, our future relies on leaders who exemplify our core values and consistently drive excellence throughout the business. This year’s class reflects individuals who embody that commitment and represent the next generation of leadership for UNICO.”

Lyons added, “These individuals have demonstrated outstanding dedication to our clients and our teams. Their insight, expertise, and leadership will further strengthen UNICO’s capabilities as we continue advancing our long-term strategy.”

The new shareholders round out our total shareholder count to 54 and join a team dedicated to supporting the company’s vision for growth, innovation, and service excellence.

About UNICO Group

UNICO Group is a client-focused insurance broker headquartered in Nebraska. We offer a consultative and relational approach to customized solutions for clients across the nation. Our commitment to trust, professionalism, and teamwork drives everything we do. For more information, call (402) 434-7200 or visit unicogroup.com.

The fourteen new shareholders are:

• Austin Beber, Risk Advisor

• Marika Brack, Director of Benefits Operations

• Dan Dahl, Benefits Consultant

• Courtney Farrier, Personal Insurance Risk Advisor

• Jeff Fritzen, Risk Advisor

• Eric Himmelberg, Director of Information Technology

• Angie Hoffschneider, COO

• Grant Huck, Risk Advisor

• Ben Kruger, Director of Finance and Accounting

• Malyssa Maguire, Client Service Team Lead

• Kris Pojar, Benefits Advisor

• Cody Roach, Risk Advisor

• Stacey Schafer, Director of People Operations

• Wade Wemhoff, Risk Advisor

Volunteer Opportunities at Friendship Home

At Friendship Home, they recognize that their greatest asset is the people who give their time to serve. Volunteers help carry the mission every day, and they are intentional about placing them in roles where they feel confident, valued, and impactful.

• Donate or Volunteer for a Stuff the Bus shift! This April, on Sat., April 18, and Sunday, April 19, volunteers will be at Walmart and Sam’s Club stores stuffing the bus and passing out needs lists! Sign up for a volunteer shift or stop by and shop for them!

• Summer Yard Work: Summer brings an endless amount of fun and an endless amount of yardwork. Grab your team and spend a few hours at their shelter mowing the lawn, pulling weeds, and making the backyard look spectacular.

• Organize a needs drive! Their shelves are constantly cycling through supplies. Community members volunteering by hosting a needs drive and delivering the items to them helps keep shelves stocked throughout the year.

If you are interested in volunteering or have any questions, contact Hannah at hannahj@FriendshipHome.org

Promote Your Business While Supporting a MeaningfulMissionwiththeDavidStaenberg Family Foundation

StrictlyBusinesstoHostFashionforFreedom Event with Disrupting

Traffick

Strictly Business is excited to host the Fashion for Freedom event with Disrupting Traffick. This event brings the community together to shopping for a cause. Disrupting Traffick is a Nebraska nonprofit that is dedicated to putting an end to sexual exploitation and trafficking.

Fashion for Freedom event will take place on April 2 at 9220 Holdrege St. from 4 to 8 p.m. Where attendees can enjoy taking part in conversation, while shopping for clothing and accessories, priced between three dollars and 20 dollars. They will be able to refresh their closets while contributing to a local cause.

If you are cleaning out your closet feel free to stop by and drop off some of your clothing to be repurchased by other attendees. All proceeds will be directly given to Disrupting Traffick. You can buy items by either venmoing Disrupting Traffick or paying in cash. For more information of the event please contact Paige Zutavern at (402) 730-0096 or the Strictly Business Facebook page at facebook.com/ StrictlyBusinessMagazine.

For more information on Disrupting Traffick please visit their website at disruptingtraffick.org.

CBMC Sets the Stage for 2026 with New and Returning Events

The David Staenberg Family Foundation is proud to offer businesses an opportunity to grow visibility while supporting a cause. Through the Monthly Email List Marketing Program, your business can be featured in their email newsletter that reaches more than 13,000 subscribers. For a low investment of just $100 per month, participating businesses receive exposure to their engaged audience of community members, supporters, and professionals. Each newsletter highlights your business, helping you introduce services, promotions, or increase brand awareness with readers who value community-focused organizations.

This program is more than marketing—it is an opportunity to make a difference. Every partnership directly supports the foundation’s mission to assist veterans and dyslexic youth. Funds raised through the newsletter help expand initiatives that provide education, mentorship, and support services designed to empower young people with dyslexia while also honoring and assisting those who have served our country.It’s a simple and affordable way to market your brand, connect with a growing audience, and demonstrate your commitment to community support.

Businesses of all sizes are welcome to participate. Whether you are promoting a local service or professional practice, the David Staenberg Family Foundation newsletter offers a unique platform to reach thousands of readers while helping fund programs that matter.

Promote your business. Support veterans. Empower dyslexic youth. For more information, please visit davidstaenbergfamilyfoundation.org.

Lincoln CBMC is offering a dynamic lineup of events and opportunities through the remainder of 2026. The Business Connection Luncheons are one of their most popular gatherings. Scheduled for April, June, October, and December, these luncheons bring people from across the city together for networking, great food, and messages from engaging speakers.

New this year is their Coffee & Connections series—a relaxed monthly gathering held from 7 to 8 a.m. the last Friday of the month at Amigos (70th & A Street). This informal event creates a welcoming space for men to fellowship, meet new people, and enjoy coffee and breakfast while encouraging one another in their faith and work.

One of their signature events, the 25th Annual Lincoln CBMC Golf Classic, will take place Aug. 31 at Wilderness Ridge Golf Course. The event combines breakfast and speakers, golf, fellowship, and an opportunity to introduce others to the impact of CBMC.

They are also launching a new experience this year: the Lincoln CBMC Men’s Retreat at Camp Solaris near Roca, held Sept. 11 (evening) through Sept. 13 (morning). Attendees will enjoy speakers, breakout sessions, worship, recreational activities, and conversations designed to foster deeper relationships and spiritual growth.

In addition, men from Lincoln can attend MERGE, a national CBMC conference held Oct. 8–10 in Columbus, Ohio, where more than 300 men gather for encouragement, leadership, and spiritual renewal. Beyond these events, Lincoln CBMC offers year-round opportunities for men to grow and build relationships through mentoring, Bible studies, peer advisory groups, and a Young Professionals group for men in their 20s and 30s.

To learn more, visit lincoln.cbmc.com, follow them on Facebook or LinkedIn, or call (402) 540-1093.

Junior Achievement Brings Real-Time Investing Experience to Nebraska Students

Junior Achievement of Lincoln is hosting the JA Stock Market Challenge on Wednesday, April 15, at Pinnacle Bank Arena, bringing together more than 500 students from across Nebraska for a fast-paced, hands-on learning experience.

The JA Stock Market Challenge gives high school students the opportunity to step into the role of investors, working in teams to buy and sell stocks in a simulated, real-time trading environment. As the market fluctuates, students must think critically, manage risk, collaborate with teammates, and make strategic decisions, building practical skills in financial literacy, teamwork, and problem-solving.

This interactive event connects classroom learning to real-world application and exposes students to careers in finance, business, and economics, all while reinforcing the importance of smart financial decision-making.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and organizations looking to support youth education while gaining visibility with students, educators, and community leaders from across the state.

To learn more about sponsoring the JA Stock Market Challenge, please contact Toni at trupe@jalincoln.org.

Bright Lights Celebrates 40th Summer of Camps

This summer marks Bright Lights’ 40th summer of providing energized, engaging and fun summer learning camps for K-8th grade students. Over the years, the program has grown into providing five weeks of summer programing, all of which include halfday and full-day camp options on a variety of topics. These week-long camps allow students to learn and create, master new skills and build new relationships.

Bright Lights was started by two local mothers, Barb Hoppe and Jan Dutton, who wanted to create a “Mental Olympics” for their young children as they noticed budget cuts in public school summer programs. What started as a graduate school project for Barb quickly developed into a full-fledged initiative just three months later. And since then, Bright Lights has become a thriving nonprofit who has served generations of students—many now the parents of current campers! — thanks to the support of local families and donors.

To help them celebrate this milestone, Bright Lights is asking supporters for online donations of $40—one for each summer of camps—at BrightLights.org. This amount is not only symbolic but also helps provide teachers, supplies and scholarships for their camps.

Registrations for their camps as well as applications for their Camp Assistant program are also currently open. More information on both can be found at BrightLights.org.

WillardCommunityCenterAnnouncesInfant & Toddler Expansion

Willard Community Center is proud to announce the expansion of its Early Explorers program to include infant and toddler care, beginning in Summer 2026.

The expansion will open a new infant classroom serving children 6 weeks to 18 months, followed by a toddler classroom launching in Fall 2026. This addition creates a full continuum of care, allowing Willard to support families from infancy through preschool and into school-age programming. Infant and toddler care remains one of the most limited and high-demand services in Lincoln. By expanding, Willard is directly responding to the growing need for safe, high-quality early childhood options for working families.

Willard became a licensed child care provider in 1980 and has grown into a multi-generational community hub serving children, youth, adults, and seniors. The Early Explorers program currently serves preschool and pre-kindergarten children and holds a Step Up to Quality Step 4 rating, demonstrating its commitment to highquality standards.

Families interested in enrollment or community members interested in supporting the project are encouraged to contact Willard Community Center for more information or visit their website at willardcommunitycenter.org.

Vision Maker Media Celebrates 50 Years of Educating Audiences

“Everything is Connected” is the guiding theme of Vision Maker Media’s yearlong film festival, capturing what has defined Indigenous storytelling for generations: the enduring relationships between land, sky, environment, and people. The festival, presented inperson and online, marks VMM’s 50th year as the premier source of film by and about Native Americans.

On April 13, VMM presents “Scha’nexw Elhtal’nexw Salmon People: Preserving a Way of Life” at The Ross Theater. The film follows two Lummi families confronting the effects of climate change and a depleting fishery, telling a compelling story of resilience, gratitude, and a lifeway dedicated to the salmon.

The online festival offers films illustrating different types of connections, centered on the experiences of Indigenous women. The offerings include “Kanenon:we - Original Seeds,” which follows three women reclaiming their ancient roles as seed keepers, returning heirloom seeds to Tribes for use by future generations. “Redbird” follows four generations of Cherokee women navigating grief after losing a family member.

For free tickets, visit theross.org. To view the online festival, visit visionmakermedia.org/vision-maker-film-festival-everything-isconnected-april-streaming.

Children, families, and educators can explore Native history through VMM’s iNative Shorts for Kids YouTube channel. April’s episodes examine the impact of the Indian Relocation Act using clips from “Urban Rez” and “Looking Toward Home.” The episodes explore the unique experiences of Urban Indians.

Explore the series at youtube.com/@iNativeShortsforKids.

VolunteerTraining/OpportunitiesforVoices of Hope Lincoln in 2026

At Voices of Hope, preparation matters. Their 34-hour Volunteer Training equips community members, staff, and professionals, including police officers, hospital staff, therapists, social workers, partners from other organizations, with the skills needed to support and empower survivors effectively.

Over the course of this comprehensive training, participants learn how to: answer crisis line calls with confidence and compassion; navigate community resources to provide the right support; develop safety plans for survivors; learn the realities of domestic violence, sexual assault, sex trafficking, & other forms of abuse; assist with petitioning for protection orders; learn about campus advocacy; practice self-care, recognizing the emotional toll of working with trauma; and more.

Because Voices of Hope welcomes walk-ins, their volunteers and staff must be prepared for a wide range of situations. Survivors may be navigating mental health challenges, substance use concerns, unstable housing, or ongoing safety risks, all while seeking help for abuse or trauma. Each interaction can be unique and requires a thoughtful, informed response. No matter the challenge, their ultimate goal remains the same: to prioritize the safety, empowerment, and healing of every survivor who walks through the doors.

If you’re interested in attending a future training or would like to learn more, please reach out to their Volunteer and Intern Specialist, Sam, at Samj@voicesofhopelincoln.org, or visit voicesofhopelincoln.org.

Young Nebraskans are Flipping the Script with Nebraska Community Foundation

Apace Bowling Day Brings Community Together

The questions we ask shape our community stories, and those stories shape our community’s success. For the last 30 years, Nebraska Community Foundation has been working to change the questions we ask about our hometowns. Over the past five years, NCF has surveyed more than 4,000 high school-age students in 43 Greater Nebraska school districts. Three-fourths reported no negative stigma with returning to or staying in the area they live now. 76% feel connected to their hometown. 59% said they are somewhat or extremely likely to live in the area they live now as an adult. When asked to rank qualities of their ideal community, safety, good schools, and proximity to family consistently top the list. One of the most powerful questions we can ask young people is, “How do you want to play a role in your hometown?”

For many young Nebraskans, NCF’s Hometown Internships are helping provide an answer. Nebraska Community Foundation launched the program in 2019 to create an experience that brings young adults back home to see their communities through a different lens.

Interns now participate in Operation Discovery, an educational component that encourages them to explore strategies grounded in mapping community assets and leading important conversations. These experiences are having meaningful impacts on both the young adults and their local mentors, helping strengthen relationships, improve community narrative, and encourage investment of time, talent, and treasure in hometowns. Learn more about NCF’s work at NebraskaHometown.org.

YMCA of Lincoln Kicks Off Summer with Healthy Kids Day Event April 11

On Saturday, April 11 the YMCA of Lincoln will celebrate Healthy Kids Day, the Y’s national initiative aimed at improving the health and well-being for kids and families. Held from 10 a.m. - noon at the Fallbrook YMCA, 700 Penrose Drive, this year’s event features healthy activities from community vendors, cooking demonstrations, crafts, and friendly competitions to motivate and remind families how to incorporate healthy routines at home.

“It’s so important for kids to stay active as we approach the summer months, both physically and mentally,” shared Kelly Fink, Fallbrook YMCA associate executive director. “Healthy Kids Day is a fun, free community-wide event that encourages families to take advantage of all the great summer resources that the Y has to offer.”

The Y hopes to use the day to get more kids moving and learning, creating healthy habits they can continue while they’re away from the classroom. Healthy Kids Day is a reminder to families that we can help ensure all children have access to what they need to reach their full potential, even during outof-school time.

For more information on YMCA Healthy Kids Day, please visit ymcalincoln.org/events.

The YMCA of Lincoln has served the community for over 150 years, promoting positive values through programs that build spirit, mind, and body for all. For more information on the Lincoln YMCA along with a list of branch locations, visit ymcalincoln.org.

Apace’s bi-annual Bowling Day on Thursday, March 26, was a tremendous success, bringing together friends, fun, and friendly competition. Forty-eight teams from across Southeast Nebraska gathered at Sun Valley Lanes in Lincoln for a day filled with bowling, laughter, and meaningful connection.

This Apace tradition gives individuals they support and staff the opportunity to step outside daily routines and celebrate inclusion in a joyful, welcoming environment. The lanes were full of excitement as bowlers cheered one another on, exchanged high-fives, reconnected with old friends, and made new ones.

More than just a bowling event, the day focused on building community, encouraging teamwork, and creating lasting memories for everyone involved.

Apace is deeply grateful to Sun Valley Lanes for welcoming them and providing the perfect space for this special event. They look forward to the next Bowling Day and another opportunity to celebrate friendship, fun, and community.

For more information, please visit goapace.com.

SCIP’s“Hop,SCIP,JumpandRUN”Registration Now Open!

Looking for a free, family-friendly event to kick off your Summer? Head over to Antelope Park on June 5 for an evening of outdoor fun at “Hop, SCIP, Jump and Run,” benefiting School Community Intervention and Prevention (SCIP).

This year’s event, brought to you by Family Health and Wellness Center, will run from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and will feature a variety of booths and activities sponsored by local organizations. A Photo Booth, sponsored by Nebraska Mental Health Centers, will capture memories of the event. Visit booths and activities, and the kids can enter their names into a drawing for prizes donated by area businesses. B107.3 will be on site to emcee our event, and the Skymart Mobile food truck will be serving up their delicious fare.

After visiting booths and participating in the activities, put on your running shoes for a 1-mile Fun Run throughout the park. Due to generous sponsor support, participation in the Fun Run is Free again this year for those who pre-register. Prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers (< 16) of the Fun Run. Kids under age 9 must be accompanied by an adult. To register, go to scipnebraska.com or runsignup.com/Race/NE/Lincoln/HopSCIPJumpandRun2024.

SCIP works with Nebraska schools by providing tools and resources to address behavioral and emotional health issues that impact children, adolescents, and their families. Money raised at this event will help SCIP provide needed resources to schools and families throughout the state of Nebraska.

For more information, visit scipnebraska.com.

Keep Nebraska Beautiful Attends Keep America Beautiful Summit

Lincoln Children’s Museum Summer Camps Spark Curiosity and Discovery

Keep Nebraska Beautiful (KNB) was delighted to attend their national organization, Keep America Beautiful’s annual KAB Summit in New Orleans, Louisiana on Feb. 25 through the 28 for days of learning, networking, and being inspired by the work being done across the nation in communities large and small. This annual gathering brings together over 500 affiliates from across the country to share ideas, undergo training, and celebrate achievements in community sustainability.

During the conference, KNB participated in affiliate training sessions designed to strengthen their programs and operations. They also had the opportunity to speak with fellow affiliates and hear their stories as well as build relationships of mutual support. The energy and innovative ideas shared throughout the event will help KNB continue to enhance efforts here in Nebraska.

One of the highlights of the conference was the “Louisiana Loves You” reception at the Cabildo museum in New Orleans, where Lt. Governor of Louisiana, Billy Nungesser, met and spoke with all affiliates while surrounded by Louisiana’s rich history!

Attending this conference reaffirmed Keep Nebraska Beautiful’s commitment to keeping our state clean and green. They look forward to another year of growth, collaboration, and impact! Learn more on their website: knb.org!

Nebraska Sports Council Lincoln and Omaha Corporate Games Set for Fall Competition

Businesses across eastern Nebraska are preparing for the 2026 Lincoln and Omaha Corporate Games, with companies continuing to register teams for the fall programs that promote workplace wellness, friendly competition, and community engagement.

Hosted by the Nebraska Sports Council, the Corporate Games provide organizations an opportunity to bring employees together outside of the workplace through a wide range of recreational and competitive events. Companies of all sizes participate in the Games, encouraging employees of all activity levels to get involved while building stronger connections with coworkers.

Both the Lincoln and Omaha Corporate Games feature a variety of activities designed to appeal to a broad range of interests. Popular competitions include sand volleyball, pickleball, and the golf scramble, along with other events such as bowling and trivia.

In addition to athletic competition, the Corporate Games emphasize community impact. Participating companies are encouraged to take part in initiatives like the Corporate Games blood drive and the canned food drive, providing opportunities for employees to give back while earning points for their organization. Donations collected through these efforts stay local, directly benefiting area organizations and helping support community members in need.

Companies earn points throughout the season based on participation, performance, and community involvement. At the conclusion of the Games, top-performing companies in each division are recognized for their achievements with plaques and the Title Belt.

Companies interested in participating can find more information, including event details and registration, at LincolnCorporateGames. com and OmahaCorporateGames.com.

Get ready for a summer filled with big ideas, creative messes, and plenty of “whoa, did you see that?” moments. Lincoln Children’s Museum is bringing back its popular week-long summer camps, where kids dive into hands-on adventures that mix STEM exploration with imagination and play. This camp series includes 10 weeks of opportunities to get involved.

Designed for children ages 5 to 12, each themed week invites campers to experiment, build, test ideas, and see what happens next. Some days might involve coding challenges or engineering builds. Other days could mean digging into dinosaur discoveries or creating art that moves and surprises.

“Camp Play gives kids the freedom to explore how things work and figure it out for themselves,” said Ellie Charter, Chief Marketing Officer at Lincoln Children’s Museum. “Through hands-on STEM experiments, they get to ask questions, test their ideas, and discover that sometimes the best learning happens when you try something, adjust, and try again.”

Campers spend their days moving between exploring all three levels of the Museum, collaborating with new friends, and discovering just how fun learning can be when curiosity leads the way.

Registration for Camp Play is now open, and spots fill quickly each summer.

Families can learn more about weekly themes and register at lincolnchildrensmuseum.org/programs.

Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach Earns a FourStar Rating from Charity Navigator

Matt Talbot is proud to announce that its strong financial health and ongoing effectiveness and reliability have helped it earn a Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator. This rating designates Matt Talbot as an official “Give with Confidence” charity, indicating the organization is using its donations effectively based on Charity Navigator’s comprehensive criteria that go beyond financials to reflect the work charities do. Charity Navigator is the nation’s largest charity evaluator, providing donors with thorough and credible ratings of more than 230,000 organizations. Since 2001, the organization has been an unbiased and trusted source of information for more than 11 million donors annually.

“We are delighted to provide Matt Talbot with third-party accreditation that validates their operational excellence,” said Michael Thatcher, president and CEO of Charity Navigator. “The Four-Star Rating is the highest possible rating an organization can achieve. We are eager to see the good work that Matt Talbot can accomplish in the years ahead.

“Our Four-Star Charity Navigator rating provides ongoing validation that our supporters can trust our commitment to good governance, but also that we’re using our donors’ gifts effectively,” said Executive Director Alynn Sampson. “We hope it will introduce our work to new supporters who can help us advance our mission to relieve hunger, overcome homelessness, address addiction, and provide outreach and advocacy in Lincoln.” More info at mtko.org.

Fresh Start Honors The Women Who Started It All

Fresh Start would not exist without women. From the residents they empower to the dedicated team members and volunteers, women have been continuing Fresh Start’s mission to eradicate homelessness for over 30 years.

In 1991, a group of concerned Lincolnites formed a board of directors and began Fresh Start. This group included women such as Eleanor Enersen, Virginia Hall, Joyce Burgess, and Sister Barbara Ann Braun. This group of women, along with John Baylor Sr., Ross Greathouse, Rev. Andy Hird, and Rev. Charles Stephen, helped open the doors of their first shelter location at Burgess’ property at 1809 Ryons Street.

Mala DeBerg was named the executive director of the shelter, which began operations in 1992. Women, led by Cindy Piester and Karen Lenzen, also helped open The Daisy thrift store in 2007, which is located at their current shelter site in the Havelock neighborhood. All net proceeds from the store support Fresh Start services. For more information on Fresh Start, please visit freshstarthome.org.

From Workmates to After-Hour Collaborators at the Foundry: It Just Makes Sense!

GoodwillOpensCatConnectioninPartnership with Capital Humane Society

Last month, Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. opened Cat Connection in partnership with Capital Humane Society. Community members can now book time to visit the cozy downtown location and interact with adoptable cats.

“After years of planning, it’s surreal to see everything come together,” said Alana Sesow, Communications Director at Goodwill. “We’re excited to welcome members into the building and introduce them to our cuddly feline residents.”

While the Cat Connection team provides quality care, the cats enjoy exploring the space, which includes a variety of enrichment toys, secondhand furniture and plenty of room for “zoomies.”

“Cat Connection is intentionally set up to mimic a typical home environment,” said Matt Madcharo, Executive Director at CHS. “This helps the cats relax and reveal their true personalities to people who might be interested in adopting them.”

Members interested in adopting can access additional information onsite. Members who cannot adopt still play a vital role by helping socialize and entertain the cats during their stay. In turn, members enjoy the mental health benefits of cat interaction and the opportunity to take a “paws” from their everyday life.

The Foundry loves to exchange stories of community impact and hear from other nonprofit organizations about their amazing work. What better way to do this than take the camaraderie outside of the office! Thanks to the mission-driven minds within the Foundry Community, Foundry Happy Hours have become a space for celebrating the little achievements and for bringing the purpose-driven community even closer.

Leadership Lincoln is one of many nonprofit organizations within the Foundry Community that impacts the lives of Nebraskans. In its 41st year, Leadership Lincoln is engaging individuals from diverse backgrounds by providing them with the knowledge, experiences, skills, and leadership tools that prepare them to become effective leaders within the community.

You’d be hard pressed to find a board, commission, or even public office that doesn’t include a Leadership Lincoln Alum. Nearly 4,000 individuals have graduated from one of Leadership Lincoln’s cohorts, and it is estimated that those individuals have given more than 160,000 hours of service in the past year, benefiting Lincoln by more than $3.5 million.

The Foundry and Leadership Lincoln put their heads together, made possible by this shared coworking space, and the Foundry reinstalled its Happy Hour events once a month, which has presented a consistent opportunity to celebrate the diligent work of the nonprofits who call the Foundry home.

“The community at the Foundry is truly special. The Leadership Lincoln team really enjoys the opportunity to connect on a more personal level with our Foundry mates!” commented Leadership Lincoln Executive Director Mick Hale.

To learn more about the Foundry Community’s coworking model and space, visit thefoundry.co or email hello@thefoundry.co.

Learn more about Cat Connection and book reservations now at lincolngoodwill.org.

PuttingforaPurposewithDisruptingTraffick

Join Disrupting Traffick in Lincoln at Adventure Golf, 5901 S. 56th Street, on Friday, May 1 from 5 to 8 pm for a free night of mini golf. Come out to engage in outdoor fun and connect with Disrupting Traffick staff and volunteers to learn more about the resources offered in the community for those that are in need of services and how you can help.

This family friendly night is about bringing community support and awareness to human trafficking that is happening right here in Nebraska. Help Disrupting Traffick as they work to interrupt the cycle of sex exploitation through education, outreach, and practical support.

Disrupting Traffick operates from a simple but powerful belief: traffickers exploit unmet needs, and when those needs are met, prevention begins. When our community members are educated on how Disrupting Traffick supports individuals in receiving tangible resources—such as food, clothing, and hygiene items—it brings awareness to those that may need our support.

For many, this is the first experience of receiving help without strings attached. Beyond crisis response, Disrupting Traffick offers longterm advocacy and mentorship, fostering healthy relationships that empower survivors to rebuild lives marked by dignity, freedom, and hope.

Through dignity-centered care and early intervention, Disrupting Traffick works to interrupt cycles of exploitation before they take hold. For more information about services, volunteering or their upcoming mini golf event, contact nichole at nichole@disruptingtraffick.org.

TeamMates of Lincoln Partners with Local Businesses

Target & Community Volunteers Power Nebraska Diaper Bank’s Mission in Lincoln

As we get further into the year, Teammates of Lincoln is focusing on building relationships with local businesses. One business in particular is TMCO, which is a manufacturing company established in Lincoln in 1974. On February 3rd, TeamMates of Lincoln had their annual Recognition Event where TMCO’s CEO, Diane Temme Stinton was the keynote speaker. Diane talked about community involvement and setting up youth for success. TMCO plans on hosting Lincoln TeamMates this spring and summer to encourage their employees to mentor.

TeamMates of Lincoln is always looking for local businesses to establish relationships with. Whether it’s a formal presentation to the staff or setting up a table in the business, the recruitment team is always willing to set up a time to visit. While Teammates of Lincoln will have supported over 1,400 matches over the 2025-26 school year, there are still over 500 students awaiting a mentor. There are amazing benefits to a company’s workplace when something as rewarding as mentoring is encouraged. Surveyed results reveal that mentors return to work more engaged, hopeful, and in a positive mood after mentoring.

If you would like to learn more about TeamMates and/or want to schedule a visit to your workplace, please call (402) 436-1990 or visit lincolnteammates.org.

Angels Among Us Celebrates a Successful Birds & Beer Lincoln Event

In its inaugural year, Birds & Beer Lincoln invited the community to enjoy craft beer and chicken bites from local vendors to support Angels Among Us. Over 200 individuals, new faces and seasoned advocates alike, joined the event to raise $18,000 for the pediatric cancer families of Nebraska.

Thank you to the local restaurants who served creative chicken bites: Amigos, Buzzard Billy’s, Cappy’s Hotspot Bar & Grill, Cberrys Barbecue, Hacienda Real, The Garage, The Watering Hole – West, Venue Catering & Events, and Zipline Tap & Grill.

10 Nebraska breweries were also featured with their signature brews for tasting: Brickway Brewery & Distillery, Boiler Brewing Company, CODE Beer Co., First Street Brewing Company, Kros Strain Brewing Company, Lucky Bucket Brewing Company, Saro Cider, Site-1 Brewing, Stone Hollow Brewing Company, and Zipline Brewing Co.

Thanks to the generous sponsors who made this event possible: Google, Patriot Nation, Copple Insurance, Lutz, Mortenson, Northside Behavioral Health Group, and Hauptman O’Brien. Thanks also to Cerris Systems for hosting the event in their new warehouse space and to the Nebraska Craft Brewers Guild for their continued partnership.

Angels Among Us is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide financial and emotional support to any family whose child is battling pediatric cancer living in or being treated in Nebraska. Over the past 20 years, AAU has supported over 800 families with over $6 million in financial support. To learn more, visit myangelsamongus. org or contact Ashley McMurchie at ashley@myangelsamongus.org or by calling (402) 934-0999.

Nebraska families received a powerful show of support as Target team members and local community volunteers recently gave their time to Nebraska Diaper Bank during a Lincoln diaper wrap. At the event, volunteers wrapped 12,615 diapers, helping support 210 babies this month. With 1 in 3 Nebraska families struggling to afford enough clean diapers, efforts like these play a vital role in keeping babies clean, dry, and healthy.

Diaper wraps in Lincoln are hosted with the support of Center for People, one of the organization’s community partners.

Want to make a difference? Nebraska Diaper Bank serves 600 babies each month in Lincoln, and volunteers make this work possible.

Businesses, groups, and individuals who want to help can donate diapers at two Lincoln drop-off locations or volunteer at upcoming diaper wraps. Volunteers help open boxes, count, and wrap diapers for monthly diaper supplements. Businesses can also host mobile diaper wraps, sponsoring diapers and bringing teams together to give back. Learn more about volunteering or donating at nebraskadiaperbank.org.

How Shared Space Creates Powerful Partnerships at

the Foundry Community: It Just Makes Sense!

What started as neighbor organizations sharing the Foundry’s coworking space grew into an international fellowship opportunity, proof that community grows beyond the walls of any single office at the Foundry!

Linked2Literacy and Global Ties Nebraska have both called the Foundry Community home, and over time, that shared address laid the groundwork for an opportunity neither organization could have anticipated.

Global Ties Nebraska was given the opportunity to host a Fellow through the Cultural Exchange and Education (CEE) program. Unable to supply the necessary hours and knowing Linked2Literacy’s impact firsthand, Global Ties Nebraska reached out and graciously suggested Linked2Literacy as a potential host. Linked2Literacy submitted an application and was accepted!

Linked2Literacy is honored to be paired with Fellow Eboude Assoue Akwele, a community engagement leader and education advocate from Cameroon. As the founder of a community learning initiative and a project coordinator for global youth programs, Eboude has built her career around education access, storytelling, and amplifying community voice, which are values that mirror Linked2Literacy’s mission to connect books, identity, and belonging. This partnership is the result of two community-centered organizations finding each other at exactly the right time.

This is just one of the many stories of partnership and collaboration that happens within the Foundry’s walls and a reminder that the Foundry is about more than shared Wi-Fi and conference rooms. It’s really an incubator for the kinds of relationships that lead to amazing opportunities, for organizations, yes, but also for the communities they serve.

To learn more about the Foundry Community’s coworking model and space, visit thefoundry.co or email hello@thefoundry.co.

Aging Ally Expands Flexible Consultation Options to Broaden Access to RN-led Healthcare Advocacy

Aging Ally is introducing two consultation options designed to make healthcare advocacy and navigation services more accessible for individuals and families facing complex medical situations. These consultations provide an opportunity for families to discuss healthcare concerns, better understand medical information, and identify practical next steps when navigating care decisions.

Founded by Registered Nurse Brenda Soto and Lauren Furman, Aging Ally provides guidance and support for individuals and caregivers who may feel overwhelmed by medical information, care coordination, or healthcare transitions. Through these consultations, families can receive professional insight and compassionate support as they work through challenging healthcare decisions.

Aging Ally’s mission is to guide individuals and families through healthcare with advocacy, compassion, and faith.

More details can be found at agingally.org, or by contacting info@agingally.org or (531) 893-1456. You can also visit their Instagram at instagram.com/aging_ally or at facebook.com/ profile.php?id=61582406722590.

People’s City Mission Day Without Shoes

In April 2011, Cornhusker Bank and People’s City Mission partnered to spotlight shoe insecurity in Lincoln.

Over the years, more than 416,000 pairs of shoes and $136,000 in donations have been collected. Every pair of shoes donated becomes an opportunity to help someone take their next step.

Join them this April to get involved in this special collection that provides new and gently used shoes to families in the Lincoln Area. There are so many ways you can participate!

From April 6 – April 19, you can donate shoes and monetary donations.

On April 8, they will host a barefoot walk to raise awareness for those experiencing homelessness and individuals who do not have access to proper footwear. The event will begin at the Cornhusker Bank Center 8310 O Street, where participants will gather before walking barefoot to the People’s City Mission Help Center at 68th & P.

On April 24 is their Sole Impact Distribution Day, where the shoes will be distributed to those in need.

To learn more about Day Without Shoes, please visit daywithoutshoes. com. If you’d like to donate, please visit Pcmlincoln.org. Visit their socials, People’s City Mission on Facebook @pcmlincoln and on Instagram.

BBBSM Seeks Fundraising Teams and Corporate Partners for Bowl for Kids’ Sake 2026

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands (BBBSM) is inviting businesses, organizations, and community members to form teams and register for Bowl for Kids’ Sake 2026, the organization’s signature annual fundraiser supporting one-to-one youth mentoring across the region.

The event relies on the generosity of local teams and corporate partners who commit to fundraising before coming together for a fun evening of bowling and celebration. Funds raised through Bowl for Kids’ Sake help Big Brothers Big Sisters recruit volunteers, provide ongoing match support, and ensure more youth have access to positive mentors. Businesses and organizations are already banding together to form teams and raise funds but more are encouraged to bring together coworkers, friends, and family members to form fundraising teams. Corporate partners also play an important role in supporting the event through sponsorships, employee teams, and community engagement that helps expand mentoring opportunities for local youth.

Bowl for Kids’ Sake will take place in both communities. The Lincoln event will be held on May 1 at Sun Valley Lanes, while the Omaha/ Council Bluffs event will run April 21–24 at Spare Time. This year’s event will feature a “Prom Night” theme. No bowling experience is required.

To register a team, become a sponsor, or learn more, visit bit.ly/ lnkbfks26 for Lincoln and bit.ly/bfks2026 for Omaha. For additional information, contact Gabby at gayala@bbbslincoln.org.

Hearts United for Animals Rescues Fifteen Cats from Hoarding Situation

Hearts United for Animals (HUA), a Smithsonian Award–winning, state-ofthe-art no-kill shelter and sanctuary, continues its mission of relieving the suffering of domestic animals through rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption.

Over the years, HUA has rescued more than 28,000 dogs from puppy mills, provided low-cost spay and neuter services for over 25,000 pets, and placed thousands of cats and dogs into loving homes across the country. The organization also provides temporary housing for pets of families fleeing domestic violence and offers its Proud Pets Program, which provides free veterinary care for the beloved pets of previously homeless veterans.

HUA responded to an urgent situation involving dozens of indoor cats abandoned at a carwash in Nebraska City following a severe hoarding case. The frightened cats, unfamiliar with the outdoors, were at serious risk.

Despite no additional space, HUA caregivers quickly stepped in to safely capture and care for the animals. Two cats gave birth after arriving at the shelter, and all have since received full veterinary care. Today, the cats and kittens are healthy, safe, and many have already been adopted into loving homes.

Rescues like this are only possible thanks to the support of the community. To learn more about supporting the lifesaving work of Hearts United for Animals, visit hua.org or call (402) 274-3679.

Red Cross Month Honored Growing Volunteerism Across Generations

As the nation marked Red Cross Month this past March, the American Red Cross honored the growing number of people across generations who are stepping forward to support their communities when help can’t wait. New Red Cross data highlights a nationwide surge in volunteerism, reflecting how individuals of all ages are strengthening communities and caring for one another.

Volunteers make up 90% of the Red Cross workforce, spanning every generation — from Gen Z to the Silent Generation — demonstrating that service has no age limit and that every action makes a meaningful difference. Over the past three years, the number of Red Cross volunteers has grown by nearly 25%, totaling more than 325,000 people nationwide. This growth mirrors the country’s broader post pandemic rebound in community service and highlights a remarkable trend: Gen Z is now the fastest growing group of Red Cross volunteers, driven largely by growth in studentled Red Cross clubs.

For 145 years, the American Red Cross has been part of communities across the country, a legacy made possible by the generous spirit of volunteers who come together in moments of need. Their actions continue to bring communities together and ensure that hope is never far away. During Red Cross Month, the Red Cross honored how people today deliver support when help can’t wait. Every contribution matters. Visit redcross.org to get involved by volunteering, making a financial donation, giving blood or taking a class in lifesaving skills.

American Heart Association Announces Date for the 2026 Lincoln Heart Walk

The American Heart Association, a global force for longer, healthier lives, has announced that the 2026 Lincoln Heart Walk will take place on Saturday, May 9 at Antelope Park. The event will open at 7:30 a.m., with the walk beginning at 9 a.m.

With cardiac arrest remaining one of the nation’s most urgent health crises, the Heart Walk continues to serve as the Association’s largest community-focused event, rallying families, companies, and supporters to take action toward creating a community of lifesavers. Each year, more than 350,000 out of hospital cardiac arrests occur in the United States, and 9 in 10 people who experience cardiac arrest outside the hospital do not survive, often because they do not receive CPR quickly.

The Heart Walk aims to reverse that trend by expanding access to CPR education, building confidence among community members, and raising critical funds for lifesaving research and public health initiatives. Through the Association’s Nation of Lifesavers™ movement, the goal is to ensure that more people are prepared to perform CPR and become a vital link in the chain of survival.

“The Lincoln Heart Walk brings our community together to celebrate survivors, honor loved ones, and inspire action that will save lives. We’re excited to welcome companies, families, and walkers from across the region to join us this May,” said Ella Salem, Lincoln Heart Walk Director for the American Heart Association Nebraska.

Companies and individuals interested in participating can contact Ella Salem, Development Director at Ella.Salem@heart.org.

Learn more or register at Heart.org/Nebraska.

CASA for Lancaster County Promotes Child Abuse Prevention Awareness This April

The Sowers Club Announces 14th Annual Poker Run and 26th Annual Golf Tournament

During National Child Abuse Prevention Month and beyond, we encourage all individuals and organizations to learn more about what they can do to support parents and help children in Nebraska experience great childhoods. By ensuring that parents have the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to care for their children, we can help promote thriving families and communities and prevent child maltreatment. Every family faces challenges. Child abuse prevention begins with awareness and support. CASA for Lancaster County volunteers not only help prevent child abuse; they also help children and families thrive. Be a part of the solution. Find out how you can become a CASA volunteer in your community by visiting casa4lancaster.org.

If you see or suspect child abuse or neglect, please call the Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at (800) 652-1999. In Nebraska, everyone has a responsibility to report abuse or neglect.

Branched Oak Observatory Highlights the Night Sky with April Events

Nebraska’s night sky will take center stage this April as the Branched Oak Observatory hosts two special events designed to connect the community with the beauty of the cosmos.

Wine lovers and stargazers alike will enjoy Wine and Stargazing on April 25 from 7–11 p.m., a unique evening experience at the observatory featuring wines from James Arthur Vineyards. Guests will sample a selection of locally crafted wines paired with charcuterie while enjoying the peaceful prairie setting of the observatory grounds.

The evening also includes a private tour of the observatory campus and a night sky presentation in the classroom that introduces visitors to the wonders visible overhead. As darkness settles in, guests will head outside for guided telescope viewing and a live tour of the night sky, weather permitting. Tickets for this special event are $35 per person and can be purchased at the James Arthur Vineyards website: jamesarthurvineyards.com.

Earlier in the month, the observatory will also participate in International Dark Sky Week, celebrated April 13–20. Throughout the week, the observatory will host special viewing nights and programs that highlight the importance of preserving our dark skies while offering visitors opportunities to explore the universe through powerful telescopes.

International Dark Sky Week is a worldwide effort to raise awareness about light pollution and inspire people to rediscover the natural beauty of a star-filled sky.

For specific viewing nights and program details, visit theboo.org.

The 14th Annual Poker Run will take place on Saturday, May 30 at 10am. Fundraising efforts will support charitable giving in the Lincoln community. Please feel free to stop by any or all of the stops. Cars & Motorcycles are all welcome!

Poker Run Stops: Frontier Harley Davidson (205 NW. 40th St.), Don’s Bar (205 Cario St. Memphis, NE.), Red Zone (117 Spruce St. Colon, NE.), Val’s Tavern (210 W. 2nd St. Valpraiso, NE.), Madsen’s (4700 Dudley St. Lincoln, NE).

The 26 Annual Golf Tournament will be taking place at Holmes Lake on Saturday, June 27th at 9am. Four man teams are $400 dollars to take part in the tournament, including Cart and lunch. Pin Prizes & Silent Auction on location at the event. For questions or more information for these events please visit TheSowersClub.com, The Sowers Club Facebook page or call them at (402) 438-2244.

The Sowers Club would like to add that they are looking for their next tenant. The Sowers Building located at 1701 S. 17th street has available office space for Lease. For more information call Valerie at (531) 310-2941. Non-profit organizations encouraged, all local businesses are welcome.

CEF

of

Nebraska Prepares

for Summer Good News Clubs and CYIA Training

As the school year begins to wind down, many of CEF’s Good News Clubs across Nebraska are wrapping up another wonderful season of sharing the hope of Jesus Christ with children in local schools. Week after week, faithful volunteers have helped bring Bible lessons, songs, memory verses, and the message of salvation to students in communities all across our state. They praise God for the seeds that have been planted and the lives that have been touched.

But while one season is finishing, another exciting opportunity is just beginning.

Child Evangelism Fellowship of Nebraska is now preparing for Christian Youth In Action (CYIA) and the Summer Good News Clubs. CYIA is a dynamic training program that equips young people to clearly share the Gospel with children. Through hands-on training, teens learn how to teach Bible lessons, lead songs, share missionary stories, and present the message of salvation in a way children can understand.

If you have a young person age 13 or older, CEF invites them to consider being part of this life-changing experience. Not only will they grow in their faith and leadership skills, but they will also play a vital role in bringing the Good News of Jesus Christ to children throughout Nebraska this summer.

The CYIA teams will travel to communities across the state to hold Summer Good News Clubs in neighborhoods, parks, churches, and community centers—reaching children who may never otherwise hear the Gospel.

To learn more about CYIA training, dates, and locations across Nebraska, visit cefnebraska.org. Join them in preparing the next generation to share the greatest message ever told.

STRICTLY BUSINESS UPCOMING EVENTS

FRIENDS FRIENDS

You are invited to the upcoming Friends4Drinks! This will be held on April 17 at 4 p.m. at Salt Mine City Brewing Co. Grill & Taproom in Haymarket District, located at 801 R St. #100.

Salt Mine City Brewing Co. is a locally rooted craft brewery that blends bold flavor with a strong sense of community. Originally founded in 2022 in David City, the brewery quickly gained attention for its small-batch beers and laid-back atmosphere before expanding to Lincoln’s Haymarket District in 2024.

Known for its rotating tap list, Salt Mine City offers everything from hoppy IPAs to smooth lagers, encouraging guests to explore new flavors with each visit. Beyond the beer, the brewery creates a welcoming space to gather, pairing its handcrafted brews with elevated pub food and a community-first mindset that makes it a standout destination in downtown Lincoln.

We cannot wait to connect with all of you! These events are completely free to attend. All you will pay for is what you eat and drink. With that being said, we are very lucky to be able to host these monthly networking events. So if you come every month, or you’re a first timer for Friends4Drinks, anyone who likes doing great things in Lincoln, is invited! 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

The Strictly Business team was excited to host our March Friends4Drinks networking event at McKinney’s Irish Pub, down in the historic Haymarket District. This event was held on March 20. It was a wonderful midday gathering filled with great conversation, new connections, and time spent catching up with fellow professionals from across the Lincoln business community.

McKinney’s Irish Pub is known for their combination of Irish cuisine and traditional dishes along with their extensive tap list and 40 different Irish whiskeys. With traditional American dishes as well, there was something for every craving at this event. With the lively atmosphere, this sweet spot in the Haymarket was perfect for a end-of-week unwind. Friends4Lunch events are always about more than just a meal, they are about strengthening relationships, supporting local businesses, and creating space for our community to connect in meaningful ways.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make this event such a success. These gatherings are made special by the people who show up ready to collaborate, connect, and support one another. We look forward to seeing you at the next Friends4Lunch! For more information about Friends4Lunch, Friends4Drinks, or Strictly Business, please contact Office@strictlybusinessomaha.com.

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.

LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

by Jason Ball President & CEO

Announcing the 2026 LaunchLNK Grant Recipients

Lincoln’s entrepreneurial momentum continues to grow, and today I am excited to introduce the six innovative startups selected to receive the 2026 LaunchLNK grant. These companies represent the latest wave of ideas and ingenuity shaping the future of our community.

Selected from a competitive field of more than 60 applicants, each of these high-growth startups will receive a $20,000 non-dilutive grant, along with valuable support services including accounting assistance, intellectual property guidance and mentorship from experienced business leaders.

Since 2018, the LaunchLNK program has played an important role in strengthening Lincoln’s startup ecosystem, helping entrepreneurs access the tools and connections they need to grow. To date, the 36 LaunchLNK alumni have secured more than $100 million in follow-on investment and grants, and approximately 90% of those companies are still in business - demonstrating both the program’s impact and Lincoln’s commitment to supporting innovation and entrepreneurship.

Following a thorough review process led by a diverse panel of community leaders and industry experts, we are proud to introduce this year’s cohort of LaunchLNK grant recipients.

Congratulations to these forward-thinking startups:

DineU is a technology platform that enables universities and dining service providers to offer secure, on-campus food delivery through their existing mobile ordering systems. By integrating directly into university dining apps, DineU allows students to choose delivery at checkout, instantly matching their order with a verified student courier. Doomsun is a fintech operating in the algorithmic trading space with a thematic focus on the energy transition. Their mission is to bring clarity to complex, rapidly shifting markets by building tools that reveal market structure and turn uncertainty into edge.

GrazeStat addresses a $2 billion annual reactive health problem in the $40 billion U.S. equine industry, where 7.2 million horses generate significant economic investment and roughly 30% experience health issues each year. Because horses instinctively mask pain and early symptoms appear as subtle changes in food and water intake, most conditions are detected only after escalation, driving emergency costs, performance losses and preventable fatalities. GrazeStat converts passive behavior in the resource zone into predictive health intelligence, creating the first scalable early-detection infrastructure for proactive equine care.

Kimto is a family operating system that unites health, wealth and legacy planning into one coordinated platform. Kimto helps families prevent conflict, reduce risk and preserve continuity during illness, incapacity or loss so loved ones stay aligned when it matters most.

MicroFarm OS helps people plan what to grow, connect with local buyers and even coordinate pickups, so individuals can grow more food and even earn extra income from their own backyard. MicroFarm OS helps sell what is made without the guesswork, with food coming straight from nearby growers.

Rheam Medical is developing R-TIP, an automated trocar placement system designed to standardize and de-risk initial peritoneal access, the most complication-prone step in minimally invasive surgery. By combining real-time visualization with advanced pressure sensing, R-TIP provides objective feedback during entry, helping make laparoscopic and robotic surgery safer, more consistent, and easier to teach.

Congratulations once again to this year’s grant recipients. Visit LaunchLNK.com to learn more.

The Hidden Truth About the Power (Consumption) of AI

Recently, the Lincoln Journal Star reported that a proposed Google data center could require more than three times the amount of electricity the entire city of Lincoln uses at peak demand during the summer.

I know… this is an article AI, not data centers. But stay with me.

Most of us have come to understand that data centers consume an incredible amount of electricity. But the amount of electricity consumed by AI is comparatively next-level. So, if a single large data center has people so concerned, then the energy demand of AI itself should be a four-alarm fire. AI is projected to drive electricity growth not seen since the post-World War II era – and much of that demand will come quietly, from existing customers, not just new facilities.

The massive electricity consumption from AI is attributable to one simple reason – AI servers are not normal servers.

The processers in AI servers are GPUs (graphical processing units) that process thousands of tasks at one time (parallel) and consume far more electricity when they are running than traditional CPUs – which handle tasks sequentially.

In addition, AI servers operate continuously and near full load 24x7. Traditional servers operate only when tasks are launched – and typically are idle for many hours per day.

Finally, AI servers cannot be cooled by a simple fan. Anyone who has felt their laptop overheating understands the basic problem. To manage the incredible heat generated by AI servers, data centers increasingly rely on liquid cooling, immersion cooling, or highly specialized HVAC systems, all of which require substantial additional electricity.

To make this concrete, consider something we all understand: a Google Search. According to widely cited industry estimates, an AI-powered prompt that analyzes data, compares sources, and synthesizes meaning can require dozens—or in some cases over a hundred times—more computing power than a Google Search which primarily

retrieves information from an index.

Behind that Google Search are the AI servers. In the data center environment, a rack of AI servers can consume 10 to 20x more than a traditional server rack dedicated to business applications, websites, or data storage.

The fire alarms should be going off because the spike in demand is already here.

Multiple large organizations in Lincoln that own and operate their own data centers are already adding AI servers to existing racks. In addition, dozens of smaller businesses renting space in Lincoln’s colocation data centers are also rapidly adding AI servers or requesting the capacity to do so. While power usage per rack in these facilities has traditionally been capped by the data center, those limits are beginning to face pressure as AI adoption accelerates.

The immediate concern for businesses is simple: where is this additional electricity going to come from? New generation from LES is years away from producing power. And historical options – such as purchasing power from Central Nebraska Public Power or the Southwest Power Pool may also prove to be difficult.

Trying to buy power in an environment where everyone is facing increased demand could be like trying to buy water during a drought. It raises uncomfortable questions:

• Why would neighboring utilities sell power they also need?

• If they did, what price would they demand?

• How volatile could regional power markets become in an AI-driven electricity shortage?

The bottom line is this: AI is not just a software revolution. It is an energy revolution. And like all revolutions that push rapid, fundamental, and disruptive change it is not only changing what businesses can do – or how they do it — it is changing what it costs to do business.

Electricity is rapidly becoming a strategic constraint. If Lincoln wants to remain competitive, we must treat energy planning with the same seriousness we apply to workforce, infrastructure, and capital investment.

The time to ask hard questions is now — while we still have choices.

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

DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION

by Todd Ogden, President

(402) 434-6900

www.downtownlincoln.org

Discover The Nook at Escape Lincoln’s Cozy & Stylish Event Venue

Looking for the perfect space to host your next gathering? Welcome to The Nook at Escape Lincoln, where modern charm meets vintage character.

Nestled in a beautifully restored space, this venue features rich wood floors, exposed brick walls, and moody ambient lighting, creating an intimate yet stylish atmosphere.

Plush velvet couches in bold hues add a pop of personality, while thoughtfully curated décor effortlessly blends comfort and sophistication.

Whether you’re planning something creative, celebratory, or simply fun, The Nook was designed with flexibility in mind.

The Nook is perfect for intimate gatherings; the venue comfortably accommodates up to 50 guests.

Ideal for book clubs, workshops, intimate celebrations, birthday parties, private game nights, and/or team-building events, The Nook can seat 30 people while having additional standing room throughout the space.

No matter the occasion, the cozy layout encourages connection, conversation, and memorable moments.

Amenities that make hosting easy are available at The Nook. Amenities include: comfortable lounge and dining-style seating, a flexible room layout tailored to your needs, unique décor with a warm and welcoming vibe, a convenient downtown location, free Wi-Fi, on-site restrooms, handicap-accessible space, and the ability to bring your own food and drinks.

From the moment guests walk in, they’re greeted by an atmosphere that feels both elevated and inviting. It’s stylish without being stuffy. Intimate without feeling small. Thoughtfully designed yet flexible enough to make it your own.

If you’re searching for a venue that blends comfort, character, and charm, The Nook is the space where your next great gathering begins.

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.

Our inclusive

the

potential of all

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

Graduation Party

It is already April and we cannot believe it. As we quickly moving into the next month there are a few things you should be keeping in mind. May is a special time for everyone. Chapters close and new ones begin as the weather continues to grow warmer through the coming months. Seniors in high school, college, doctors, lawyers, and masters walk across the stage and get to commemorate the undeniable hard work that have put in over the years. It is such a special time and an ending with infinite possibilities.

That being said it is a great time to celebrate. The first of many graduation parties during this important time of year typically begin taking place in early May. This means if you have a graduate on the way that you would like to recognize, it may be time to nail down plans and figure out all of the necessities for a great party. Though it may sound overwhelming, do not fear; in this story, we have highlighted Lincoln’s best. From venues, to food, to cleaning – we have got you covered.

Starting off strong, The Back Nine Lincoln South is a great place to throw a party. There is also so much to do to keep your guests around just a little while longer. The Back Nine Lincoln South is a great place to host golf-lovers independent of weather; the fun and celebrations can happen rain or shine. Jason Holm, Owner of The Back Nine Lincoln South, says they have limited availability, so booking sooner rather than later is important. That being said, you can book a party that will include all three open bays, putting area, and common area for 3 or 4 hours. You are allowed to bring your own food and beverages or cater in. Parties may be booked for anytime between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on the following dates: May 24, May 25, May 29, May 30 and May 31. For your party rates, three hours with an additional 30 minute set up and 30 minute clean-up will be around 720 dollars, which saves you 360 dollars. Four hours with an additional 30 minute set up and 30 minute clean-up will be around 900 dollars which saves you 450 dollars.

The Back Nine recommends bringing your own golf clubs as they have a limited number of sets available for rental. For additional information for booking, feel free to look them up online (thebackninegolf.com/ lincoln-ne-south). They have plenty of resources and contact information available.

If you are not interested in golf but are thinking of planning a graduation party at a venue we still have more options for you to take a look at. With a versatile 17,000 square feet Venue 5 TwentyTwo offers a space for everyone. As spring approaches, Venue 5 Twenty-Two is preparing for all sorts of events. From corporate kickoff events, graduation parties, weddings, and so much more and they are so excited. They love to see their space filled with celebrations of all kinds.

For graduation parties, they continue to see a trend toward larger open-house-style gatherings in polished, comfortable spaces where families can host with ease. Many families choose venues that allow for flexible layouts, great guest flow, and built-in amenities that elevate the overall experience. They anticipate that trend continuing this spring, especially as graduates want a celebration that feels memorable and elevated. At Venue 5 Twenty-Two, they offer both small and large event spaces that work beautifully for celebrations of any size. Their rental includes tables, chairs, setup and teardown, and access to our on-site amenities, allowing families to focus on celebrating. While clients arrange their own catering and décor, they do offer a variety of rental enhancements. Please contact them with any questions you may have.

Spring dates book quickly, so reserving space early is always encouraged. Venue 5 Twenty-Two works closely with each client to ensure the space fits their guest count, timeline, and overall vision for the celebration.

Venue-searching for graduation parties doesn’t have to be a stressful experience that takes away from your graduate’s moment. Talon Room is great option for the perfect place of celebration. Located in downtown Lincoln, this versatile venue offers easy planning and an urban and rustic atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for commemorating your graduate.

The Talon Room takes pride in offering a complete package for hosts who want to simplify their planning. They provide in-house catering with delicious menu options, professional bar service for adult guests, and decoration packages that can match your graduate’s school colors or party theme. With so much handled for you, hosting a graduation celebration becomes stress-free and enjoyable.

The Talon Room is accommodating to large party sizes; it comfortably holds 150–200 people, making it a great option for larger graduation parties where classmates, relatives, and family friends can all attend without the squished discomfort of a small venue. Additionally, they feature a variety of price ranges to fit different budgets and event types.

To make planning even easier, the Talon Room offers pre-determined specials that can help simplify hosting a large event. One popular package includes five hours of rental time along with a two-entree dinner buffet for larger groups; all preplanned and available to you at the click of a button. With great food, plenty of space and a staff dedicated to making your party smooth yet special, the Talon Room has everything you need to celebrate your graduate’s big accomplishment.

In Lincoln, another spot for your graduates’ party is Salt Mine City Brewing Co. Nestled in the Haymarket District, this locally owned brewery combines small-batch craft beer for attending adults, hearty food, and a warm atmosphere perfect for graduation parties.

Inside the taproom, guests will find a rotating lineup of beers ranging from IPAs to smooth lagers and seasonal brews. A full menu of comfort dinner foods pairs naturally with the beer selection, making it easy for groups to settle in and celebrate together. Patio seating is also available when the weather cooperates, giving gatherings a chance to enjoy the fresh air and energy of the Haymarket.

Salt Mine City Brewing also offers private spaces for graduation parties, making it an appealing option for families who want their own area while still enjoying the lively atmosphere of downtown Lincoln. Whether it’s a casual gathering with friends or a celebration with extended family, Salt Mine’s approachable setting helps make the occasion feel relaxed and memorable. While no longer serving lunch items, Salt Mine City Brewing gives Lincoln a laid-back yet vibrant option. It’s a friendly reminder of home without hosting at home, providing the perfect space to discuss good memories over a drink and a sandwich.

Finding a venue is just a fraction of what you need to figure out for a graduation party. While it is definitely nice to have an idea of where you are planning to have the party it is time to figure out some food options as well. DAVINCI’S in Lincoln offers many options to satisfy your preferred catering style.

Graduation parties are typically open house with lots of guests coming and going. With that being said DAVINCI’S has a few great options for you. They recommend ordering their pastas. The reason behind

Class of 2026 & 2027

Senior year is a big moment—for them and for you. Celebrate your Class of 2026 or 2027 graduates with a personalized senior portrait session or timeless cap & gown photos designed to capture this exciting milestone for your family.

this is that pasta stays fresh and holds well when you are serving for an extended period of time. They offer both baked mostaccioli and lasagna rollups with three homemade sauce options another great option is their hoagie platters. These are easily served from a catering tray and cut into small pieces. It is an easy grab and go option. DAVINCI’S also has bulk pasta and potato salad as well as bulk garden or spinach salads that pair well with the other options. Luckily DAVINCI’S offers a few great catering packages.

DAVINCI’S catering and recruiting director Krista Messersmith said, “We have a pasta package that comes with catering pasta, garden salad and garlic cheese rolls. We offer a pizza package that includes your choice of pizza, garlic cheese rolls, garden salad and mini chocolate chip cookies,” but if your prefer sandwiches Messersmith said, “our hoagie platter package gives you a choice of an assortment of hoagies or cheese steak hoagies and comes with individual bags of potato chips and mini chocolate chip cookies as well.”

But what is a graduation party without an assortment of desserts and food that appeals to everyone? That’s where Sweet Things by Marcy comes in. Sweet Things by Marcy was established in 2020 and began as a home-based business. Owned and operated by Marcy Haas, an Alabama native and U.S. Navy veteran, she brings Southern charm and delicious homemade treats to downtown Lincoln.

If a graduation party doesn’t feel right without a beautiful celebratory cake, Marcy offers a variety of flavorful options from a luxurious Red Velvet to German Chocolate, Kentucky Bourbon, and many more. If you or your grad prefers a different dessert to honor this life milestone, Sweet Things by Marcy also offers pies, cobblers, cookies and other sweet treats that will perfectly decorate the dessert tables and keep party guests coming back for more.

Rebecca Marie Photography

hello@rebeccamariephoto.net www.rebeccamariephoto.net

Marcy definitely keeps things sweet, but she offers more than just her iconic desserts. Sweet Things by Marcy also provides savory options, including soup and sandwich catering and gallon batches of her homemade soup. She offers both a cold sandwich platter and a hot panini platter, and if you can’t decide between the two, you can even choose a mix of both. So whether you have a sweet tooth or prefer a savory snack, you can find something for everyone at Sweet Things by Marcy.

If you are looking for the perfect graduation gift, Sartor Hamann jewelers has options fitting for the grad. Graduation gifts tend to be timeless pieces that become part of someone’s everyday wardrobe. The most common pieces the Sartor Hamann jewelers see families choose are a watch, diamond stud earrings, or a classic gold bracelet. These are staple items that can be worn for years; from college and first jobs to life’s next milestones. Families often choose something meaningful but versatile, a piece that will grow with them as they move into the next chapter of life.

Sartor Hamann has been part of the Lincoln community for 120 years, and what truly sets them apart is the level of care they provide both at the time of purchase and long after. Their experienced team and in-house shop allow them to help care for jewelry over its entire lifetime, from sizing and repairs to cleaning and restoration. Many of their jewelers have 30+ years of experience, so families know their pieces are in trusted hands.

“One of the most rewarding parts of our work is being part of life’s important moments. Graduation represents years of hard work, dedication, and the excitement of what comes next,” says Michelle Williams, the South Pointe store manager. “Helping a family choose a piece of jewelry to mark that moment is special because we know it will always remind the graduate of where they started. Many times, those same families come back years later for engagements, anniversaries, or other celebrations.”

Being able to share in those moments, sometimes across generations, is something they’re incredibly grateful for.

For many households, graduation celebrations take place right at home, which means preparing the space for guests becomes an important part of the planning process. New Start Cleaning, LLC. helps families make sure their homes are guest-ready so they can focus on enjoying the moment.

When preparing a home for a graduation party, the team at New Start Cleaning recommends focusing on the areas guests will use the most. Entryways, bathrooms, kitchens, and main gathering spaces are often the first places visitors notice. Decluttering surfaces, wiping down high-touch areas, and making sure floors are clean can quickly make a home feel welcoming. Small details, like placing trash cans in convenient locations and stocking bathrooms with extra paper towels and soap, can also make hosting easier and more comfortable for guests.

Many homeowners choose to schedule a professional cleaning before their event so their home feels fresh and ready without the stress of lastminute chores. This allows hosts to focus on decorating, preparing food, and celebrating their graduate. At the same time, post-event cleanings are becoming increasingly popular. After a full day of entertaining friends and family, many hosts appreciate having someone take care of the cleanup so they can relax once the celebration ends.

By taking care of the cleaning before and after the celebration, New Start Cleaning helps families spend less time worrying about chores and more time enjoying one of life’s biggest milestones.

Graduation photography and senior pictures make the important milestone of graduation impossible to forget.

Professional photographer Rebecca Marie McNeese is familiar with the importance of photographs of big life events through her work. She has seen how grad photos and senior pictures are kept for years to come by parents and loved ones as treasured keepsakes. She notes that photos like these capture the emotions of a moment in time by giving parents the chance to celebrate their grads as they are, and highlighting their personalities, accomplishments, and enthusiasm towards the future and what’s to come.

Rebecca Marie brings her photographic expertise to graduation photos as she recommends best practices for deciding on locations, outfits, and props. The best grad photos bring out the personality of the grad; finding a location that reflects their interests, wearing outfits that are an elevated version of their everyday look, and perhaps including simple props such as instruments or sports gear can help a photo feel authentic and tell a story.

Rebecca also suggests an ideal schedule for taking both senior photos and graduation photos. In her experience, senior photos are usually taken in the summer before a student’s senior year so that families may use them in announcements throughout the school year, while graduation photos are usually taken in April as cap and gowns arrive for use in graduation parties, announcements, and keepsakes.

Ultimately, Rebecca Marie reflects on what makes senior pictures and graduation photography so meaningful for families: “[They] capture a

moment in time that goes by incredibly fast. For parents and seniors, it is a chance to celebrate who their senior is right now, their personality, accomplishments, and the excitement of what is ahead.”

Graduation season is the perfect time to invest in a quality suit, something your graduate can wear not only for the ceremony, but for interviews, internships, celebrations, and the next chapter ahead. A well-fitted suit is more than just an outfit for one day; it’s a confidence boost that carries into life beyond graduation.

Gary Michaels Clothiers specializes in men’s tailored clothing, offering expertly crafted suits, tuxedos, sport coats, and dresswear designed to match each individual’s style, fit, and goals. Their approach is centered around personalization, ensuring every piece is selected and tailored with intention, rather than pulled off the rack as a one-size-fits-all solution.

One of the standout benefits is their commitment to full-service tailoring. With any suit purchase, complete alterations are included in the retail price, something many retailers charge an additional 15–20% for. This attention to detail ensures that every graduate walks away with a suit that fits perfectly in every aspect, from the shoulders to the hem, creating a polished and put-together look.

Gary Michaels Clothiers also offers a wide range of more upscale brands, including Oxxford Clothes, Heritage Gold, Caruso of Italy and Italo Ferretti, along with their own exclusive Gary Michaels collection. Whether your graduate is looking for a classic, timeless style or something more modern and fashion-forward, their team provides the guidance and selection to make it happen.

For families preparing for graduation parties and celebrations, it’s a simple way to make the moment feel even more special, helping graduates look sharp, feel confident, and step into their future ready to impress.

Located in the heart of Lincoln’s vibrant Haymarket District, Graduate by Hilton Lincoln offers a one-of-akind setting that blends local history, Husker traditions, and college nostalgia, making it a natural fit for graduation celebrations. Just steps from the University of Nebraska campus, the hotel provides a convenient and memorable place for families and friends to gather and celebrate this major milestone together.

Graduate by Hilton Lincoln goes beyond simply offering a place to stay. With thoughtfully designed guest rooms, an indoor pool, vintage arcade games, and signature Graduate touches throughout, it creates an experience that out-of-town guests will truly enjoy while visiting for graduation weekend.

For families planning a celebration, the hotel also offers event spaces and dedicated support to help bring everything together seamlessly. Whether hosting a small gathering or a larger graduation party, the team works closely with guests to coordinate details, manage logistics, and create a personalized experience that reflects the graduate and their accomplishments.

From coordinating room blocks for visiting family to assisting with event planning and execution, Graduate by Hilton Lincoln provides a stress-free, all-in-one solution. It allows families to focus less on the details and more on celebrating.

At the end of every graduation party is a moment of relief and satisfaction. For the parents, getting your child to this point and this accomplishment is no easy feat. For the grad, it is a moment of success and looking to the future. It’s a milestone that marks both an ending and an exciting new beginning.

SUMMER ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

When school gets out for the summer, kids will flock to the indoors, filling what was once time at school with time on their phones, laptops, and TVs. The average screen time per day for children aged 8-18 is 7½ hours. High screen times have been connected to a more sedentary and isolating lifestyle over the last several years. How will your kids experience the sun on their faces or the smiles of their peers on an upcoming breezy summer day? Look no further than the local businesses of Lincoln, promoting health and community as they offer various opportunities for kids to enjoy interacting with nature and their neighbors instead of with their screens.

From the days where it’s too hot to be outdoors to the days where the weather is perfect, Lincoln’s local businesses promote summer activities that fit the needs of children with all backgrounds, abilities, and interests.

Lincoln Running Co. offers a welcoming approach to the realm of running and walking; those with all ages and ability levels are enthusiastically welcomed into the community, whether that is your 8 year old looking to play outside or your 18 year old wanting to start running over the summer.

Lincoln Running Co. is offering Beginning Running Class that runs June through July that starts people out the right way on their running journey. They encourage families to sign up and do it together. A family that runs together has fun together! In this class there are several running experts covering everything from motivation, to nutrition and running injuries. They have schedules that start them off on the right foot and keep them interested and healthy. Through this class, participants are getting information and hints on running from experts and it’s–many times–the same info they may get from their parents, but somehow it seems to stick if it is NOT from their parents!

Through Beginners Luck–the schedules keep them interested—the workouts progress each week and they end the class with a 5K at Pioneers Park, so they work on accomplishing small goals on the way to the big goal: the Beginner’s Luck 5K!

Running can be a great thing to do with loved ones and helps set a strong foundation for other physical activities and can give kids a reason to be proud: when they finish the race faster than they thought, or when they meet a new friend who will push them to run faster or begin that sport.

Lincoln Running Co. isn’t only about running. It’s about moving and caring for yourself in a way that is fun and rewarding.

On days when the sun may be too hot, kids can find tons of fun at Sun Valley Lanes & Games! They are known for their incredibly immersive bowling lanes, but that’s not all they have to offer. Sun Valley also has an arcade, laser tag, and mini golf, perfect for some indoor fun with friends! Sun Valley is a heavy promoter of community and friendly competition, offering leagues in bowling, sand volleyball, and cornhole.

Their leagues provide activities for kids of any skill level and can provide fun physical activity in an exciting atmosphere. Along with the physical activity provided, the social aspect plays a huge role in

kids’ health as well. Helping kids make friends and build connections in a setting outside of school provides for more social interaction and experiences. It also encourages good habits, such as working together as a team and supporting teammates through wins and losses. While Sun Valley Lanes & Games gives kids confidence and good memories with leagues and tournaments, they also promote fun as a venue for hosting children’s birthday parties. While most food and drinks must be provided by their delicious selection of bar and grill items, their friendly staff allows birthday cakes and ice cream to be brought in from outside. They offer flexibility with space for the type of party your group and child may want, as well as reservations for bowling, laser tag, and mini golf for your child.

Perfect for families with multiple unique personalities, Play It Again Sports in Lincoln offers a variety of quality used sports gear for affordable prices. This summer, sports such as baseball, softball, and soccer are in full swing – parents are purchasing bats, gloves, cleats, helmets, and shin guards for their kids’ seasons. As the summer goes on, Play It Again sees an increase in sales of volleyball and football equipment as well, signifying summer preparation for programs in the Fall. They have gear that covers all kinds of sports for all kinds of young athletes.

Aside from specific popular summer athletics, Play It Again provides opportunities for both general fitness and recreational activities. For kids that participate in multiple sports, Play It Again offers conditioning equipment like agility ladders, resistance bands, and weighted training tools. They also offer golf, pickleball, and tennis equipment for casual fun with family or friends, as well as general fitness gear for kids looking to just stay active.

Play It Again is perfect for younger kids who are still growing and just starting out in a new sport. It’s important to keep sport introductions simple: summer sports for kids are about learning and having fun. Having the newest or the most expensive equipment doesn’t take center stage when kids will quickly grow out of their equipment by next summer. Despite this, it’s important to find equipment that fits; the team at Play It Again encourages parents to bring their kids in so they can help find the perfect gear for your child.

Play It Again is happy to be an affordable and convenient aid in your child’s athletic development, from unexpected growth spurts, to family fun at the tennis courts, to community involvement in local camps, leagues, and clubs of popular summer sports. Youth sports encourage lessons in teamwork, resilience, and having a good work ethic – it’s important to get your kids involved this summer!

As summer approaches, many parents are looking for simple ways to encourage kids to spend more time outside and away from screens. One growing trend is nature play, where kids explore the outdoors through unstructured activities like building forts, collecting rocks, observing insects, or creating nature art. These activities spark curiosity while helping children develop creativity and problemsolving skills.

Another popular idea is turning outdoor time into an adventure. Backyard obstacle courses, scavenger hunts, bike rides, or visits to local parks can make being outside feel exciting and engaging. Families are also embracing “micro-adventures,” such as hiking nearby trails, fishing, or even camping in the backyard.

Outdoor creativity is trending as well, with kids painting rocks or drawing with sidewalk chalk. Along with this, keeping a nature journal can encourage mindfulness and curiosity about the natural world.

We Buy, Sell, Trade Quality New & Used Sports & Fitness Equipment

Make sure you have everything checked off on your back to school list!

Pens, Pencils, Paper Notebooks and Calculator Soccer Ball and Cleats? Football and Mouthpiece?

The creative avenues that nature provides should not be taken for granted; there are many benefits that kids can get from outdoor creativity.

Beyond fun, time outdoors supports healthy development by encouraging physical activity, building good habits, improving mood, and helping kids recharge mentally.

Whether they’re lacing up running shoes for their first race, celebrating a strike at the bowling alley, or gearing up for their next sports season, local businesses are helping make sure summer is filled with activity, friendship, and fun.

The best summer days are often the simplest ones: running around with friends, learning a new skill, or discovering a hobby that sparks excitement. These moments help kids build confidence, strengthen their connections, and stay active—all essential ingredients in creating experiences that stay with them long after summer break ends.

So this season, consider trading a little screen time for sunshine, laughter, and community. Lincoln’s local businesses are ready to help kids stay moving, stay curious, and make the most of every warm summer day. From running and walking, to indoor bowling leagues, to affordable sports equipment, your kids will be prepared to have a summer they will remember.

And beyond the activities themselves, it’s the little moments in between that truly shape the season, the high-fives after a game, the encouragement from teammates, the sense of pride that comes from trying something new. These are the experiences that build confidence, foster independence, and create lasting memories.

Spring Landscaping

After the roads have been beaten by snow, gravel, salt and ice for the last few months, spring is around the corner. Whether its spurts of false spring showing up in the weekly forecast or a deep spring cleaning, your outdoor space can’t be forgotten and will need addressed as well. Spring is the perfect time to begin landscaping projects and planning for the summer.

Rediscover the joy of your backyard and outdoor area by giving them some much needed TLC. There are many businesses in Lincoln that can help you have the outdoor area of your dreams to ease into summer through a spring (that always seems to fly by) filled with landscaping endeavors made possible and hassle free with companies serving Lincoln residents and the surrounding areas.

For more than 25 years, TDK Lawn Care, Inc. (Timely, Dedicated, and Knowledgeable Lawn Care) has been taking care of its clients

and providing a complete, honest, and professional lawn care service that includes lawn mowing, fertilizing, aerating, overseeding, yard cleanups, and snow removal.

Owner Lee Schumacher created TDK Lawn Care to provide honest, reliable, and professional lawn care for your yard, ensuring its health year-long and providing services to Lincoln residents at an affordable price.s

Mowing services are offered from April through October to ensure your grass is looking nice and is healthy. With a routine based on grass health, prevention of weeds, and curb appeal, the TDK team can provide weekly mowing services. But lawn care doesn’t start and stop with mowing. Aeration and fertilization are two crucial steps the TDK team never downplays.

Gardening...Enjoy the Outdoors

Grass acts as the foundation of many landscapes. When properly maintained, grass helps regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and prevent weed overgrowth that can impact surrounding plants and garden beds. Routine mowing, fertilization, and aeration are far more cost-effective than repairing or replacing a neglected lawn. Depending on the time of year, your yard has different needs. In April, crabgrass control is the priority, and in May, you should spray for broadleaf weeds. June is a great time to do another treatment for pesky crabgrass. July is all about the grubs. Grubs will eat your lawn, and proper treatment and fertilization can prevent this from happening. In September, once things cool off slightly, this is a great time to address any lingering weeds in your yard before you winterize your lawn to promote quick, healthy and green growth for next spring. Aeration should be done twice a year to help promote growth and allow fertilizers, water and oxygen to reach the roots in clay-heavy soil (which just happens to be the main soil type in Nebraskan yards).

Lee Schumacher advises knowing when is the correct time is to water your yard and how much to water. Knowing when and how much to water is essential for maintaining a healthy lawn throughout the spring and summer months. Proper watering encourages grass roots to grow deeper into the soil, which helps lawns become stronger and more resilient during periods of heat or drought. Overwatering can lead to shallow roots, fungal issues, and wasted water.

Earl May Garden Center is way more than a plant store. You wouldn’t quite know it when you walk in (because probably 90% of us get distracted by some plant, flower or yard décor we absolutely need) but upon talking to the team, it appears in a new, accurate light. Their team is passionate and knowledgeable about plants and yard care and want to help you plan your yard and have a successful garden. Whatever you envision, you can have with their help.

DIY Dynamic Design is a program available through Earl May. It is a perfect combination of a thoughtful helping hand and a do it yourself and get dirty mentality. With provided photos, measurements, soil conditions and goals, Earl May provides an one-on-one shopping experience where an expert team member will walk you through what products you should get, which ones to avoid and provide planting and maintenance advice.

They also provide other planting services like consultations, garden and landscape plans and planting of trees, shrubs and perennials. Along with theses, they have maintenance services like spring and fall clean-ups, mulch and rock installation, light pruning and weeding.

Jessica Jasnoch, manager at Earl May, says to take a good look at your yard and garden, see what needs improvements, whether it trimming trees or shrubs. Also check in on your plants and check to see whether or not they survived the winter and assess the overall health of them.

“We did not get much moisture this winter so watering will soften the soil to allow any moisture we do get to be absorbed into the ground and prevent runoff,” explains Jasnoch.

Jasnoch also describes some gardening mistakes individuals can make in spring.

“Spring cleaning too early can result in the removal of hibernating pollinators, hurting our pollination of vegetable gardens during the summer, and starting too late can result in missing the windows for preventing weeds, harmful insects and diseases,” says Jasnoch.

Hunt Irrigation, Inc., known as The Water Smart Company, has been providing residential sprinkler and commercial irrigation services throughout Lincoln and the surrounding communities since 1997. Their team focuses on designing, installing and maintaining irrigation systems that help properties stay green while using water responsibly.

Transform Your Outdoor Space

Rather than relying on standard layouts, Hunt Irrigation designs systems tailored to the specific needs of each property. Their process begins with a site survey to evaluate factors such as water pressure, soil conditions, plant material and microclimates. This allows them to create irrigation systems that distribute water efficiently and evenly across the landscape.

Water conservation is a major priority in modern irrigation design. By using advanced components, smart controllers and efficient sprinkler heads, properly designed systems can significantly reduce water usage while still supporting healthy turf and plant growth. In fact, water-smart irrigation systems can save tens of thousands of gallons of water per year for residential properties.

1776 Grounds Maintenance provides year-round groundskeeping and landscaping services. 1776 Grounds Maintenance focuses primarily on commercial grounds care, serving industrial properties, apartment complexes, HOAs, acreages, and vacant lots with professional mowing and property maintenance services. While the company does not provide residential lawn mowing, they do offer select residential services such as lawn treatments and underground sprinkler system service for existing clients.

A comprehensive maintenance company that can take care of your whole yard will become familiar with your yard and its needs, leading to better quality care and establishing relationships and trust between the home or business owner and the team. The team takes their time, treats your yard like their own, and ensures nothing gets

damaged or hurt and that work is done right and precise.

With weed control services for both residential and commercial properties, they use a chemical weed program and a ground cover strategy to hold the soil and control weeds to make sure those pesky weeds never come through concrete cracks or ruin the look of a lot.

“In Lincoln, I’d estimate that the watering well is the most important service to build and maintain thick healthy turf. Next, in my opinion, would be mowing correctly, weed control and fertilize accordingly. We coordinate so all these lawn care services sink up and work together to maintain nice lawns,” Berte explains.

For commercial properties, more communication and coordination is needed for maintaining a lot of this size or complexity. “I would say what is most essential for commercial grounds care is knowing and communicating who is responsible for what services. To have a contact person and communicate that this year or ongoing we will take care of these services. The best is if we can sign a property where we care for all of the outside grounds care all year and for 10 years.”

Eagle Nursery is focused on long-term results and wants your plants, trees and landscape to stay healthy and hold up against the Nebraska weather and summer storms to come.

Eagle Nursery helps homeowners and businesses pick out plants and trees that will work in their environment and soil conditions. There is a right answer to which tree(s) will be best for a specific yard. Growth, structure and longevity are factors that need to be taken into account and can trump what looks good in the moment. Long term goals for your landscape and the space you have to work with need to also be considered.

For early spring, one of the most important steps homeowners can take is making sure their lawn has what it needs to green up quickly while preventing weeds such as crabgrass from overgerminating. Lawn Pride of Lincoln provides professional residential lawn care services designed to keep lawns healthy, green, and thriving throughout the seasons. Their services include fertilization, weed control, aeration, and grub prevention, along with customized lawn treatment programs tailored to local soil and climate conditions.

“A couple of pre-emergent weed control applications, along with a light application of nitrogen, will help prevent weeds while encouraging healthy, green growth early in the season,” explains John Kingston, owner of Lawn Pride of Lincoln. “Another great thing to do this time of year is to make sure your mower blade is sharpened and you’re mowing at the proper height. This helps the grass grow thicker, which naturally crowds out weeds.”

A professional lawn care program can feel almost like a “set it and forget it” approach. Instead of trying to figure out what your lawn needs and when to apply it, the program handles everything throughout the season. Regular visits by trained professionals help catch potential issues early before they become bigger problems, helping lawns stay healthy, thick, and green all year long.

There are hidden complexities and strategies for taking care of your lawn and reviving it after the winter. Some choices can cause easy maintenance and some can form into a season-long struggle and headache. Take the guesswork out of your plants and yards and call a professional, who, let’s face it, will do a better job than you. With the right expertise, your lawn can recover faster, grow healthier, and stay looking its best throughout the season.

STARTING A BUSINESS

Starting a business can seem like a daunting task. Some believe only a select few can do it and be successful. But in reality, many of those who succeed simply understand the resources available for starting a new business and making it last.

Lincoln is home to many companies that were created to help other businesses flourish and get off the ground. Whatever challenges may lie in the road ahead, there is a Lincoln professional ready to help entrepreneurs navigate obstacles and move forward with confidence.

Several of these business owners and experts shared their advice for starting a business in 2026.

In today’s crowded marketplace, brand visibility is more important than ever. New businesses are not only working to introduce themselves to the community, they are also competing with countless established companies already vying for the same customers. Standing out requires more than simply opening the doors. It takes clear, consistent, and cohesive branding that makes a strong first impression and reinforces credibility at every touchpoint.

From storefront signage to vehicle graphics and promotional displays, visual consistency helps customers recognize and remember a business. When branding is thoughtfully executed and highly visible, it builds trust and keeps a company top of mind. That is why many growing businesses turn to experienced signage partners like Sign Pro of Lincoln to help bring their brand to life in a way that captures attention and supports long-term growth.

Owner Julie Shald notes that many entrepreneurs benefit from thinking about signage earlier than they might expect. In the beginning stages, temporary options such as “Coming Soon” banners, yard signs, and window graphics can help generate early buzz. As opening day approaches, businesses can transition to permanent interior and exterior signage that strengthens brand presence. For companies with service vehicles or delivery fleets, custom vehicle graphics provide another highly visible and cost-effective marketing tool.

Julie recommends planning signage for a new business two to three months ahead of the planned opening date.

Terry Clark Manager

“Once you have signed a lease or begun your build, start thinking about your main business sign as soon as possible. While it’s important to focus on what’s happening inside, it is equally important to have your name on the front of the building ready to go when you open the doors, if possible. The entire process of sign design, pricing, permitting, and production can take several weeks or even months, especially with lit signage,” Julie explains.

Julie also encourages entrepreneurs to consider local sign regulations when choosing a location. Whether operating in a standalone building or a strip mall, there may be landlord or city requirements that determine what type of sign is allowed. For example, if dimensional or illuminated signage is required, businesses may need to budget more than they would for a non-illuminated flat sign.

Sign Pro continues to support clients well beyond the grand opening. From promotional signage and seasonal campaigns to event graphics, the team helps businesses keep their visual presence fresh and professional as they grow.

Even the most carefully built business plan cannot anticipate every administrative demand that comes with becoming an employer. For many new business owners, the volume of required registrations, filings and ongoing reporting quickly becomes one of the most unexpected challenges of launching and running a company.

PayWorks, LLC helps entrepreneurs manage these responsibilities with confidence. As a locally woman owned firm, the team understands the realities small business owners face and provides hands on support with employment registrations, payroll processing and required tax payments across multiple agencies.

Things like training new employees, filing tax documents appropriately, and figuring out how to do that while focusing on growing the business and getting everything in order can be hard for some to juggle. Sometimes the obligations of sales tax and payroll taxes seem overwhelming. Terry Clark, manager at PayWorks, LLC., shares her advice for entrepreneurs trying to file taxes and set up payroll for the first time.

Terry cautions new business owners to not over look is new hire reporting when they are trying to process payroll themselves. It is crucial to make sure new hire paperwork is completed in full, along with all required identification and bank verification received prior to allowing the employee to start working.

Outsourcing payroll and bookkeeping early on can help entrepreneurs save time and save them from costly mistakes. It helps establish a process right from the start so that as they grow their business it’s one less thing they have to create while they’re in the midst of change and growth.

“In the beginning, they might feel it’s something they can do on their own until they can’t and they become so far behind that it might end up being more expensive getting caught up than it would have if outsourced right from the start,” Terry explains. “I can speak from experience as I’m going through change and growth now and just hired a new employee compared to when I hired my first employee. It was a lot easier to train the first because I had less clients, but

when that employee left, I was unable to find a replacement for a few months and was back to doing it all myself. Fortunately, the business didn’t stop growing, but unfortunately, when I finally found a replacement, it wasn’t as easy to properly train the new employee and keep on top of required tasks because there was so much more to do.”

Terry also advises for owners to send W-9s to every vendor you start doing business with so when the end of January comes, you don’t have to fret or scramble and will have all the information you need for year-end 1099s.

“There are firms like mine that can help. Don’t try to do everything yourself. Stay focused on your expertise or what you went into business for and allow others to assist you with things they have more expertise in. Do what you can to not get behind in paying your tax obligations. Those taxes will continue to accrue and before you know it will be out of control,” Terry says.

For business owners already juggling multiple roles, outsourcing these administrative functions can be a significant relief. By assisting with bookkeeping, sales tax reporting, 1099 preparation and related back office needs, PayWorks enables entrepreneurs to stay focused on growing their business instead of getting buried in paperwork.

The global consulting firm, Pro Business Plans, which has supported founders for more than 13 years, specializes in customized business plans, pitch decks, valuations, market research and funding connections for startups, growing and established companies. Pro Business Plans continues to expand the resources available to entrepreneurs with the launch of new tools and services designed to simplify the path from idea to fully funded business.

Stressed about taxes?

Pro Business Plans recently introduced ProAI, an AI powered platform designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners plan, validate and fund their ventures using tools traditionally reserved for large enterprises. The firm also officially launched its Funding Advisory services, creating a more accessible path to capital for growing businesses. Many entrepreneurs struggle with traditional funding routes that require significant equity, lengthy bank processes or expensive advisory fees.

Pro Business Plans has identified over 100 sources of reliable and up to date business and economic intelligence. Their Data Analysts compile relevant information into research reports tailored to the business’s region and industry. Then, the Financial Analyst leverages that information, incorporating it into an accurate 5-year financial model. Their team is comprised of go-to-market experts that are deeply aware of what it takes to gain exposure and traction in a variety of industries. They leverage that expertise to craft a bespoke go-to-market strategy for each business.

The biggest mistake the experts at Pro Business Plans see in the market is people trying to craft financial projections that “look good.” The questions your financial projections should answer reliably are:

1) What startup costs will be incurred?

2) How long after funding do we expect revenue to begin?

3) When revenue begins, what is the expected gross margin?

4) What recurring operating expenses will the business incur once generating revenue?

5) When do we anticipate achieving operating breakeven?

6) When do we expect to achieve investor breakeven?

7) How much of the capital requirement will be provided by the owner?

By answering these questions, they are telling anyone who is funding the deal exactly what the working capital need is, where it will be applied, where it will need to come from, and when funders can expect to be made whole. This is the primary purpose of a business plan shared with potential funders.

The absolute must haves for any entrepreneur or founder starting a business in 2026 is:

• Executive Summary: Problem Statement, Proposed Solution, 3-year Objectives, Value Proposition, Keys to Success

• Company Description: Overview, Mission, Vision, Values, Products & Services

• Market Analysis: Industry Overview, Market Segmentation, & Competition

• Management Team Bios and Roles

• Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, Environmental (PESTLE) Analysis

• Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT) Analysis

• Go-To-Market Plan

• 5-year Financial Forecast

For entrepreneurs just getting their footing, building the right connections can be just as important as having a great product or service. That is where the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce serves as a valuable resource for the local business community. As one of the city’s leading business organizations, the Chamber focuses on strengthening the local economy through advocacy, partnerships and meaningful business connections.

The organization works closely with community leaders, partner groups and policymakers to support a healthy and competitive business environment in Lincoln. By staying engaged in legislative and local initiatives, the Chamber helps ensure the voice of the

business community is represented in conversations that shape the region’s future.

With a membership of more than 1,300 businesses, the Chamber continues to foster a strong, unified network dedicated to helping Lincoln companies start, grow and succeed.

Abby Bartholomew, Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development’s (LPED) Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, shares her thoughts on business start ups in 2026.

“Early-stage startups often face a critical gap between having a promising idea and having enough traction to attract traditional investment,” she explains. “Programs like LaunchLNK help bridge that gap by providing non-dilutive funding that founders can use to validate their product, hire early talent, or reach their next milestone.”

LaunchLNK connects founders with mentors, investors, and peers who have been through similar challenges. That network effect is incredibly powerful because startups rarely succeed in isolation.

“When founders have access to capital, mentorship, and a strong community, they’re more likely to launch and scale their companies here. That access translates into job creation, new technologies and services, and a stronger local economy,” says Bartholomew.

LaunchLNK also helps provide funding and grants to founders get their start up off the ground and connects them with essential resources. LaunchLNK website can be found at LaunchLNK.com.

“For a startup, a relatively small amount of capital at the right moment can unlock significant momentum. It allows founders to move faster, test assumptions, and demonstrate traction to investors or partners.”

In a recent applicant pool for LaunchLNK, 95% of startups were already past the ideation stage and more than half of applicants were involved in additional programs to help build their business.

“At LPED, we try to meet founders where they are. Some entrepreneurs are still validating an idea, while others are already scaling a business. Our role is to help connect them with the right resources, whether that’s grants, mentorship, talent pipelines, or introductions to investors and partners. My biggest advice is: don’t try to build your company alone. The sooner founders plug into the ecosystem, the faster they tend to move. The first step is simply to get connected,” advises Bartholomew.

Pilot, an AI-powered accounting platform, is bringing enterpriselevel financial tools to Lincoln through its Local Partner Program. By partnering with local bookkeepers and firms, Pilot combines advanced technology with trusted, relationshipdriven service. Professionals like Nathalie Lopez of Cuentas Claras LLC can now deliver faster, more accurate financial insights, helping businesses access high-quality, affordable accounting support right here in the Lincoln community.

At Cuentas Claras, they work closely with entrepreneurs who are building businesses from the ground up, especially within the Latino community. Many of their clients are hardworking individuals who are incredible at what they do whether it’s construction, food service, cleaning services, or other skilled trades but they may not have had access to financial education or guidance when starting their business.

These businesses benefit the most from their services because they focus not only on compliance, but on helping owners truly understand their numbers. When entrepreneurs understand their finances, taxes, and cash flow, they gain confidence and can make better decisions to grow and sustain their businesses.

“My biggest advice is to treat your business like a business from day one,” explains founder, Nathalie Lopez. “Separate your personal and business finances, keep organized records, and don’t wait until tax season to think about your numbers.”

Lopez says watching her own parents struggle with finances and the already complex systems motivated her to open Cuentas Claras.

“They worked incredibly hard, like many immigrant families, but understanding financial information, taxes, and business processes became another barrier on top of everything else,” says Lopez. “Seeing that experience firsthand made me realize how many people in our community face that same challenge. Finances are complicated for anyone, but when language and access to information become additional obstacles, it can feel overwhelming.”

Technology is transforming accounting by making financial information faster and more accessible than ever before. Cloud-based accounting systems and automation allow business owners to track their finances in real time and make informed decisions much more quickly.

“We are also seeing platforms like Pilot demonstrate how technology and financial expertise can work together to better support growing businesses,” Lopez explains. “By combining modern tools with experienced financial professionals, business owners gain clearer insights into their numbers without needing to build a full internal finance team.”

At the same time, technology does not replace the human side of accounting. Tools can organize data, but they cannot replace the guidance, context, implementation, and education that many business owners need. The future of accounting is really a balance between technology and advisory, using technology to simplify processes while helping entrepreneurs understand what their numbers actually mean for their business.

Cuentas Claras exists to give business owners clarity and confidence in their finances so they can focus on building the future they are working so hard for.

Starting a business will always come with risk, but it also comes with opportunity. The difference often comes down to preparation, mindset, and the willingness to lean on the right people and resources along the way. From building a strong technology foundation to maintaining clear financials and surrounding yourself with experienced professionals, each decision plays a role in long-term success. No one builds a business entirely alone, and those who seek guidance early often find themselves better equipped to grow and adapt. For Nebraska entrepreneurs, the path may not be easy, but it is one that continues to produce strong, resilient, and successful businesses.

UNPLANNED LIFE CHANGES

Unexpected changes are a part of life and they become more frequent the older we get. No matter how prepared you might think you are, there’s always going to be something you aren’t ready for. An unplanned move, an injury and insurance gaps are all things people think they’re prepared for until they’re not. But there are businesses to help stressful times like this feel more manageable and calmer.

When older home owners have to sell unexpectedly or quickly, there’s usually a lot going on behind the scenes. There may be decades of belongings to sort through. Sometimes the home hasn’t been updated in years. Often, adult children live out of town and are trying to help from a distance. However, the biggest challenge isn’t the house, it’s the emotions. Seniors are often making major financial decisions at the same time they’re grieving a loss or adjusting to a health change. That’s a lot for anyone to carry.

One of the most prominent emotions tends to be panic, so the first thing we do is slow it down emotionally for seniors and their family, even if the timeline is tight. We sit down, listen carefully and explain all the options clearly. We break everything into manageable steps so it doesn’t feel overwhelming.

Leaving a long-time home is deeply personal. It’s where children were raised, holidays were celebrated and life unfolded. It represents independence, memories and sometimes a spouse who is no longer there.

Many of the seniors didn’t wake up one morning planning to sell their home. It’s usually triggered by something unexpected like a fall, a new medical diagnosis, the loss of a spouse or a sudden need to move closer to family.

That’s why Alicia Chrastil with Nebraska Realty created the Savvy Seniors Transition System™. After walking so many families through these emotional and urgent situations, they realized they needed more than just a Realtor — they needed a clear, calm process. They developed the system from real-life experience, working through these transitions step by step. The team is completely devoted to helping seniors feel protected, informed and supported. They’re the only team in the area with a structured, proven approach designed specifically for this stage of life.

At the end of the day, it’s not just about selling a house. It’s about helping someone move into their next chapter with dignity and peace.

Staying mobile and continuing to move as much as possible can help seniors independent as long as possible. Once you stop using certain muscles, they don’t activate like they used to without a lot of training. While movement is important, keeping your brain active can be helpful, too. Find ways to challenge yourself to use your brain in more complex thinking. This helps keep the brain fog away and can improve your ability to find alternate ways to complete daily activities if you have a sudden health setback. It’s also important to not wait to

Family Serving Family

get help. As humans get older, a small issue can become a huge problem in a short period of time. Avoiding signs and symptoms until they become worse can make an easy problem to fix, more complicated. Being proactive in your own health care can play a huge role in keeping you independent as long as possible.

The most important thing to help seniors regain their confidence after a sudden health setback is to listen to their concerns, fears and frustrations. Write them down and use those to help create both short term and long term goals. Don’t try to sugar coat or ignore the fact they had a sudden health setback and present them with a realistic but encouraging prognosis. Let them know that their life might look a little different now, but that doesn’t mean everything they enjoy or used to be able to do for themselves stops. At Husker Rehab, they will find ways to retrain or modify activities to keep them safe and doing what they used to, as best as possible.

When someone arrives at Savannah Pines after an unexpected life change, they understand that they’re not just moving into a new place — they’re letting go of what they thought life would look like. Caregivers meet them in that tender space. The first thing they do is slow down and listen. We ask about the life they’re coming from, the routines that comfort them and the things that make them feel like themselves. They make sure their room feels familiar, introduce them to neighbors who genuinely want to welcome them, and they check in often — not out of obligation, but because they know how hard these first days can be. The goal is for them to feel that they haven’t lost their sense of

it has simply

shifted to a place where they’re surrounded by people who care.

A health setback can shake a person’s confidence in ways that aren’t always visible. They help residents gently rebuild that confidence with patience and encouragement. They celebrate every step forward, literally and figuratively, and reminds them of their strength on the days they forget it. They help them reconnect with the activities and routines that bring them joy, and they make sure they never feel rushed or judged. Confidence grows when someone feels supported, capable and believed in. That’s what they offer every single day.

Emergency moves usually happen during already difficult circumstances, such as health issues, sudden housing changes or family crises. Emotions are high, timelines are tight and there is little opportunity for planning or preparation. In addition to the physical workload, families are often juggling medical decisions, paperwork and uncertainty. T Square Movers focuses on bringing structure and calm into the situation by quickly establishing priorities, communicating clearly and handling as many logistical details as possible so families can focus on their loved ones.

In urgent situations, families are doing their best under pressure, so preparation can be difficult. Sometimes belongings are not packed or sorted ahead of time, which can extend the timeline significantly. They also frequently encounter unexpected logistical challenges such as long walking distances from the truck to the residence, limited parking access, stairs or elevator requirements that were not known in advance. These factors can greatly impact how long a move takes and may require additional movers to meet time constraints. Another common oversight is not separating essential items like medications, important documents, chargers and daily necessities. In the middle of a stressful situation, those details are easy to miss but make a big difference in how smoothly the first night in a new home goes.

With that being said, every situation is different, so they adapt the approach to meet the individual where they are. This may include moving at a slower pace, coordinating closely with caregivers or family members, minimizing physical strain on the client and ensuring essential areas of the home are set up first for comfort and accessibility. They want clients to feel supported and not rushed during what is often an overwhelming time.

Clear communication ahead of time allows them to plan appropriately and provide the level of support families truly need during these transitions.

Many families find the new onset of medical changes in their loved one to be quite overwhelming. At Sumner Place, they pride themselves on effective communication with family members regarding their loved one’s condition while in their care. They develop a care plan with clinical, dietary and pro-social staff to ensure all of the resident’s needs are met within the first 24 hours of admission. From then on, they conduct quarterly care plan meetings where the team discusses the resident’s status with family members in person and address any concerns. In the event of any changes or updates to the original care plan or the resident’s status, they always call the resident’s power of attorney or guardian before changes take effect or to update them on the resident’s condition. They find that empowering families with the knowledge of how their loved one is being cared for can alleviate most of the overwhelming feelings or nervousness.

In addition to concise and frequent communication the Sumner Place community finds that their life enrichment team and social services departments ensure residents’ emotional needs are met, especially during times of uncertainty. By providing quality social interaction through stimulating activities such as drumming club, bingo or nature walks these fun activities offer a time to let loose and alleviate the stress of physical recovery and ongoing medical needs. They also prioritize promoting individual pursuits, such as ensuring the residents have the supplies needed to privately complete activities that fill their

cup, to make Sumner Place more like home. For residents who need a bit more emotional intervention, they also offer counseling services from outside providers. Their social services director makes certain that residents’ emotional needs are at the forefront of their care alongside the physical, providing well-rounded care.

The rising cost of assisted living, home health services and skilled care has made protection conversations more urgent. Families are increasingly focused on protecting their homes, vehicles savings and legacy. At Vivian Clough AAA Insurance Agency – Nebraska’s 1st Entrepreneurial AAA Agency are seeing more interest in life insurance solutions and annuities that provide financial stability and flexibility as people age.

The most common insurance gaps tend to be low liability limits on auto and homeowners policies, no umbrella protection, outdated beneficiaries on life insurance and not enough coverage to replace income or protect assets. Many families also don’t realize how quickly medical events can create financial strain beyond what health insurance covers. A simple annual review can prevent major hardship later.

Every case is different though. If someone is living independently, a homeowners or renters policy provides property and liability protection. When transitioning into assisted living, coverage needs often change — personal property coverage may need to be adjusted, auto coverage may change if driving habits shift and liability considerations look different. It’s important to review auto, home and umbrella policies anytime there is a housing or lifestyle change.

While they do not offer standalone long-term care policies, they provide several life insurance and annuity options that can help families prepare financially for the unexpected. A common misunderstanding is that Medicare will cover extended care, but it generally does not. That’s why having proper life insurance, strong asset protection and savings strategies in place are critical.

Life does not always change gradually. Sometimes it shifts overnight. A fall, hospital stay, new diagnosis or noticeable memory changes can quickly alter what once felt manageable. In these moments, families are often left asking how to protect safety while preserving independence.

At Visiting Angels, they often meet families during these unexpected transitions. Many families seek in-home care after a triggering event such as a hospitalization or fall. Others notice more subtle changes over time. Missed medications, unopened mail, weight loss, social withdrawal or difficulty keeping up with housekeeping can signal that extra support is needed. Sometimes the first sign is caregiver exhaustion. A spouse or adult child may quietly take on increasing responsibilities until the emotional and physical strain becomes overwhelming.

Older adults do not always ask for help. Pride, fear of losing independence, or not wanting to burden loved ones can delay important conversations. Families often sense something has changed before it is openly acknowledged. Trusting that instinct and exploring support early can prevent crisis-driven decisions later.

One common misconception is that accepting in-home care means giving up independence. In reality, the opposite is often true. Independence is not defined by doing everything alone but by maintaining choice, control and dignity. Support with mobility, meals, medication reminders or companionship often allows older adults to remain safely in their own homes longer.

Bringing someone into the home can feel personal, and initial hesitation is natural. Yet once trust is established and the right caregiver match is made, many older adults experience relief from isolation, physical strain and the pressure of managing everything alone.

Unexpected life changes can feel overwhelming, but with the right support families can find stability, dignity and peace of mind. At

Affordable, Smoke Free Living

At the Waterford, they recognize that moving from a longtime home is not just a physical transition, it is an emotional one. A home represents decades of memories, independence and identity. They approach this change with empathy and intentional support. The team takes time to listen to each resident’s story. They encourage families to bring meaningful furniture, photos and treasured keepsakes so new apartments feel familiar from day one. Prior to move-in, they meet with residents and families to learn about routines, preferences and life experiences. That personal understanding allows them to preserve continuity and dignity. Most importantly, they walk alongside residents at their pace. They reassure them that this move is not about losing independence, it is about gaining support, safety and peace of mind while maintaining control over their daily lives.

One of the most common misconceptions is that assisted living means giving up independence. In reality, assisted living enhances independence by removing the burdens of home maintenance, cooking, housekeeping and medication management. Another misconception is that assisted living feels clinical or institutional. At the Waterford, their environment is warm, welcoming and residential in feel. Residents have private apartments, personalize their space and choose how they spend their day. Families are often surprised to learn how individualized care truly is. Assistance is tailored, whether someone needs minimal support or more hands-on help and can adjust over time. The goal is not to “do for,” but to “support with,” preserving autonomy and dignity.

At YOUniq Health, they believe that mental health care is not about “fixing” people. They approach the treatment of seniors with deep respect. Older adults bring decades of resilience, and treatment works best when they build on that strength. By taking time to listen, they learn from their lived experience and use it to guide the care.

They also know that mental health does not exist in isolation from the body. Many seniors already take multiple medications, so they prioritize safety by prescribing only when truly necessary. Their approach considers the whole person, including health conditions, medications, sleep, nutrition, mobility, and support from family and friends.

Older adults sometimes hesitate to seek mental health support. Families should watch for warning signs such as increased irritability, withdrawing from social activities, or neglecting personal care. These changes may signal that a senior could benefit from counseling or medication support.

When an unexpected life event requires families to explore care options sooner than they planned, they are often trying to process a lot at once—medical information, logistics, and emotions. Needing to decide quickly doesn’t mean sacrificing the ability to make an informed decision. The role at Legacy Retirement Communities is to help families slow the process down just enough to understand their options and feel confident in the path forward. They begin by listening and learning about what has changed. Understanding the immediate concern—whether it’s safety, health needs, or support at home—helps everyone get clearer about what the next step might be.

Recovery can be unpredictable, and that uncertainty can be difficult for both residents and the people who love them. During those times, support often begins with something simple: presence. There are many

things in life we can’t control, but we can control how we show up for one another. For them, that means being present - listening, offering encouragement, and continuing to support connection and community. Their teams work to create a steady environment where residents can focus on healing while still feeling connected to everyday life. When circumstances allow, they encourage opportunities for conversation, shared meals, and time together with neighbors and staff. Often, the community itself becomes an important source of support during uncertain moments.

At the heart of it, their goal is to make sure people feel supported not only physically, but emotionally, as they navigate the challenges that can come with recovery and change.

At Salt Creek Senior Living, they help families in several different ways. Memory Support tends to be more of an urgent need. Something has happened recently and family members are the ones having to step and provide support, which usually leads to what they call “Caregiver Burnout”. As for Assisted Living, family is or has been helping their loved ones remain at home, which can also lead to Caregiver Burnout. They help families by assuring them a safe environment for their loved ones; they are here around the clock to help the residents. This allows family members to go back to being family and not the caregiver.

As people age things become tougher to do on their own, and that is where a person can thrive in senior living. The main goal is for their residents to be as independent as possible and remove the struggles and the stress of the day to day. Assisted Living can help seniors when things are becoming too difficult to navigate at home on their own. Sometimes Assisted Living is physician recommended, but sometimes the isolation of being home is just getting to be too much.

When seniors move in, they introduce them to residents with similar interests so they already have a friend within the first few days. They host a monthly Meet Your Neighbors social, which is focused around a seasonal dessert. When the decision to move wasn’t part of a senior’s long-term plan, the number one thing they can do is be empathetic.

For seniors recovering from an accident or experiencing a decline in mobility, keeping up with daily cleaning can become difficult or even unsafe. Maid to Please, Lincoln’s premier cleaning service, can step in, helping restore a sense of comfort and normalcy within the home.

The team understands they are stepping into more than just a house. They’re entering a space filled with years of memories.

“We approach every home with a high level of respect and sensitivity,” says Adam Cowan, co-owner of Maid To Please. “We’re not just cleaning a space—we’re working around a lifetime of memories.”

For many families, the process can feel heavier than expected, both emotionally and physically. “What may seem like a straightforward clean-out often brings back meaningful memories and can take more time than expected,” he notes. “But once everything is complete, families often feel a sense of relief as the space becomes more manageable.”

Above all, their goal is to ease stress during an already overwhelming time. “We focus on being a steady, reliable presence. Clear communication, showing up on time, and handling the details so families don’t have to,” Adam concludes.

Just because an unplanned life change occurs, doesn’t mean it has to be unsupported. There are businesses whose goal it is to make transitions like this easier and smoother so that it’s one less thing for you and your family to have to worry about. It doesn’t matter if it’s assisting with insurance, selling a house and moving, extra support when you need it most—you don’t have to go through it alone. With the right support system in place, what feels overwhelming can become manageable. Reaching out for help isn’t a setback—it’s a step toward stability and peace of mind.

WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES

Women-owned businesses continue to be one of the fastest-growing parts of the economy, both across the country and here in Nebraska. In fact, women own more than 43% of businesses in Nebraska—higher than the national average, and make up about a third of the state’s small business community. Those numbers tell an important story, but they only scratch the surface of the impact women entrepreneurs are making across industries. From technology and finance to retail, healthcare, and creative services, women business owners are helping shape how modern companies operate. Many bring a leadership style that blends innovation with strong relationship-building, creating workplaces and services that focus just as much on people as they do results. That balance has helped many women-led businesses stand out in a competitive marketplace.

Of course, the path hasn’t always been easy. Access to capital, smaller professional networks, and barriers to scaling businesses are challenges many women entrepreneurs still face. Yet time and again, Nebraska’s women business owners continue to find ways to grow, adapt, and move their companies forward.

Another defining quality of many women-led businesses is their connection to the community. Many owners actively mentor other entrepreneurs, volunteer their time, and support local organizations. They are not only building successful companies, but also strengthening the communities where they live and work.

That momentum shows no sign of slowing. Nearly half of all new businesses started in 2024 were womenowned. For Nebraska, that means more innovation, more leadership, and more stories of resilience and success continuing to emerge.

At Copper & Wax Co., vintage finds meet clean fragrance in a collection designed to slow the pace of modern life. What began as a spark during the pandemic quickly blossomed into a fulltime, woman-powered business rooted in intention and craft. They hand-pour candles and other products using locally harvested beeswax blended with cleanburning, phthalate-free ingredients for home and body. The alchemy symbol for Copper in their logo represents nature, creativity, love, and balance—values that guide everything they create.

Their aesthetic leans into Old-World charm: simple, beautiful pieces that feel storied and soulful. In addition to their recycle & refill programs they also love to collaborate with other businesses to create their own signature scents, crafting fragrances that reflect their story and identity.

Mindy Horn is the owner and maker at Copper & Wax Co. - with a background as a massage therapist and beekeeper, she approaches fragrance as ritual—an invitation to pause & breathe. From raw, natural materials to nostalgic branding, every detail is thoughtfully curated to bring warmth and calm into your space.

Stop into their storefront located in the heart of University PlaceLincoln’s only Creative Arts District to smell in person or visit them online at Copperwaxco.com - check out their fragrance library for inspiration!

Ashley Tobias has called Lincoln home for over a decade and is the owner of T Square Movers, an award-winning, family-owned moving company that hit its 10-year anniversary in 2026. She also co-owns Save Nebraska Local, a growing business community dedicated to helping small businesses collaborate, scale, and thrive together.

At T Square Movers, Ashley has created far more than a moving company. The business operates as a sober workplace that actively supports recovery, mental clarity, and personal growth. While not every team member comes from an addiction background, the company culture emphasizes discipline, accountability, and clear-minded service. Many employees credit this environment with helping them stabilize their lives, develop leadership skills, and pursue long-term goals.

Central to this culture is the T2 Leadership Academy, a structured internal program Ashley designed to develop movers into leaders. The academy focuses on servant leadership, emotional regulation, professionalism under pressure, communication, and personal responsibility — skills that extend far beyond the job site. Ashley’s leadership philosophy is rooted in service first. She believes strong leaders exist to elevate others, not control them. This mindset has shaped a team culture known for reliability, mutual respect, and a “no-complaining, solutions-focused” approach to challenges.

Beyond T Square Movers, Ashley plays a major role in strengthening the local business ecosystem. Through Save Nebraska Local, she hosts recurring masterminds and networking events designed to be practical, collaborative, and non-sales-driven. These gatherings bring together entrepreneurs from diverse industries to troubleshoot real problems, share strategies, and build authentic relationships — not just exchange business cards.

Known for her high energy, direct communication style, and commitment to community growth, Ashley continues to build organizations that prioritize people, leadership, and long-term impact.

To learn more about T Square Movers, visit TsquareMovers.com or call (402) 645-4067. To learn more about Save Nebraska Local and the SaveLocal App, visit SaveNebraskaLocal.io or text (402) 780-8813.

McGill Law is a women founded, owned, and led law firm dedicated to thoughtful advocacy and client centered legal guidance. The firm is known for combining strategic legal representation with a compassionate approach to family law, recognizing that every client’s situation is deeply personal and deserves careful attention.

In Lincoln, attorneys Taylor Matthias and Amber Schlote serve clients across Lancaster County and surrounding communities. This spring, the firm will expand into a larger Lincoln office, reflecting its continued investment in supporting individuals and families throughout the region. An additional office in Omaha allows the firm to serve clients across eastern Nebraska.

The practice focuses on family law matters including divorce, child custody, parenting plans, and estate planning. Whenever possible, the attorneys prioritize collaborative problem solving and thoughtful negotiation, helping many families reach agreements outside of court while remaining prepared to advocate strongly when litigation is necessary.

The firm represents individuals, couples, and families from a wide range of backgrounds and is committed to providing respectful and inclusive legal guidance for every client.

Learn more at mcgilllawyers.com or call (402) 548-5418.

Marci Hanshaw made her dream a reality in June of 2008 when the sign lit up for Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar in the quiet little area of Pioneers Woods Shopping Center, located on 70th and Pioneers.

“I was a very young entrepreneur back then at the age of 28,” said Marci. “In a sense, Carmela’s and I grew up together.”

Marci’s vision was to bring an elegant bistro with extraordinary food and wine to Lincoln. She was excited and nervous to join the ranks of all the other amazing restaurants in town, which were predominately led by men at the time.

“I was aware that restaurant industry was a strongly male-dominated space,” said Marci. “I was prepared to roll up my sleeves and do what I needed to do in order to be successful. Carmela’s was well received by Lincolnites, and we are still going strong after 16 years!”

Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar features chef inspired American cuisine that includes hand-cuts steaks, pastas, and seafood dishes. They believe that food and wine hold the power to forge lasting connections, setting the table for a life well lived.

Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar features date nights on Monday and Tuesday evenings, which includes a three-course meal for two and a bottle of wine for only $65! There are Wine Down Wednesdays and First Thursday Wine Tasting events.

Another highlight is the Chef Created Brunch Menu every Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. They also have Sinatra Sundays, featuring a three course dinner plus a bottle of wine while listening to the sounds of the rat pack and Ol’ Blue Eyes himself.

To view the full menu and hours, visit carmelasbistroandwinebar.com or call (402) 489-0005.

Capital Care Staffing is a Lincolnbased, women-owned healthcare staffing agency dedicated to connecting Nebraska’s healthcare facilities with compassionate, skilled nursing professionals. Guided by a mission to elevate care through dependable talent, Capital Care provides flexible staffing support for long-term care communities, assisted living facilities, hospitals, clinics, schools, and more — 24/7, day or night.

At the heart of the company is President & CEO Samantha McAtee, whose nearly two decades of healthcare experience inform a leadership style grounded in integrity, professionalism, and genuine care. Under her direction, Capital Care has built a reputation for matching facilities with Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Medication Aides, Certified Nursing Assistants, and other qualified staff who are trained to deliver compassionate, team-oriented care that fits each community’s unique needs.

What truly sets Capital Care apart is its dedication to both clients and caregivers. Facilities rely on the agency’s thorough screening and personally tailored placements, while nurses and aides value competitive pay, scheduling flexibility, and ongoing support.

As a trusted partner in healthcare staffing, Capital Care strengthens communities by ensuring quality care through responsible staffing solutions — proving that great care begins with the right people. For more information, visit capitalcarestaffing.com.

Since taking over as owner and executive director in January 2020, Megan Leikam has played a pivotal role in Associates in Counseling & Treatment’s growth and community impact.

With licenses in alcohol and drug counseling, disordered gambling counseling and a certification as a domestic violence counselor, Megan leads by example—conducting evaluations, facilitating counseling sessions and advocating for mental health and substance use support in a compassionate and confidential manner.

ACT offers a comprehensive range of services, including evaluations (substance use, mental health, gambling use, and co-occurring disorders), intensive outpatient treatment (morning and evening options), outpatient counseling, anger management, domestic violence classes and alcohol/DUI education courses.

The organization accepts various insurances and provides flexible scheduling, including virtual and in-person sessions. A sliding scale fee is available for underinsured or uninsured individuals.

“Modern life presents many stresses that can affect people at any stage. Our therapists are here to support individuals and families with mental health, gambling, domestic violence, and substance abuse challenges,” said Megan.

For Dawn Robinson , working with children has never been just a career. It has been a calling. For more than 37 years, she has dedicated her life to helping young learners grow in confidence, curiosity, and character.

Her journey began in the public school system, where she taught for seven years after earning her Bachelor’s degrees in Elementary Education and Special Education. Driven to deepen her impact and better serve young learners, she later completed her Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education.

Long before opening a center, Dawn welcomed families into her own home, operating an in-home childcare and preschool program for five years. That experience ignited a bigger dream: to create a nurturing learning environment that would positively shape children, support working families, and strengthen the community. In 2005, with determination, faith, and a clear vision, she opened World of Knowledge Child Development Center and Preschool — a place designed to feel like an extension of family while delivering highquality early education.

As the program grew and community needs increased, Dawn expanded her impact by opening a second location, World of Knowledge Early Learning Center, in 2021. Building a successful program required courage, resilience, and unwavering belief in her mission. In 2025, the organization proudly celebrated 20 years of serving children and families.

Today, Dawn continues to lead with heart and purpose, creating environments where children thrive, teachers grow, and families feel supported, proving that passion and perseverance create lasting impact. More information on World of Knowledge can be found at worldofknowledgene.com.

To learn more about Associates In Counseling & Treatment, go online to ACTNebraska.org or contact (402) 261-6667/information@ actnebraska.org.

GordenLaw in Lincoln was founded in 2011 by Attorney Vanessa J. Gorden, a first-generation lawyer whose mission is helping families move forward through some of life’s most challenging transitions.

Focusing exclusively on family law, GordenLaw represents clients in matters involving divorce, custody, support, paternity, and modifications.

The firm is known for its strategic approach to complex family law matters and its commitment to providing highly personalized, premium legal services.

“We recognize that every client’s situation is unique,” Gorden explains. “Our role is not only to address the legal issues involved, but to understand the bigger picture — the long-term goals our clients have for their families, finances, etc. We want to be proactive, not reactive, in building our clients’ foundation for the future.”

One of the ways GordenLaw is different is the transparent flatfee pricing structure. By offering levels of representation tailored to different scenarios, the firm allows clients to choose the level of support that best fits their needs and goals. Having clarity on pricing allows the firm to provide clear guidance, proactive strategy, and focused attention.

“Family law cases are pivotal moments,” Gorden says. “It is an honor to help our clients move forward with strength and confidence.”

To learn more about GordenLaw, visit gordenlaw.com, call (402) 817-1450, or email inquiry@gordenlaw.com.

For many individuals and families, financial planning can feel overwhelming. For more than four decades, Marcie Young has helped people turn uncertainty into clarity.

Marcie is a fiduciary Investment Adviser Representative and owner of Marcia Young & Associates, LLC. Over the years, she has built a reputation for thoughtful guidance, practical strategies, and long-term client relationships.

Her approach begins with something simple but powerful—listening.

“I believe people make their best financial decisions when they truly understand their options,” Marcie says. “Education always comes first.”

Many clients find Marcie through a referral from a friend, family member, or colleague who has worked with her for years. In fact, her practice has grown almost entirely through word-of-mouth recommendations.

Her dedication to clients has also earned consistent recognition. With Lincoln’s Choice Awards, Marcia Young & Associates has been named among the Top 3 Financial Advisors for many years and is again a finalist for 2026.

Raised with the values of Nebraska farm life—hard work, practicality, and caring for others—Marcie brings those principles into every client relationship. She serves clients throughout Nebraska and across the United States.

While retirement planning is a specialty, Marcie and her team work with individuals at every stage of life—from young professionals building their financial foundation to those preparing for retirement or navigating major life transitions.

Marcie provides access to a broad range of top-notch financial solutions, including managed investments, IRAs, mutual funds, annuities, college savings plans, and individual 401(k) plans. Additional services include term life insurance, identity theft protection, and prepaid legal services

Many people who reach out to Marcie say they simply want a place to start or a second opinion on their current financial strategy. An initial conversation is designed to be relaxed and educational, giving individuals the opportunity to ask questions and explore options before deciding on next steps. To learn more or schedule a conversation, visit: primerica.com/MarcieYoung.

On Point Insurance Agency was open for business in June, 2026. Started by Krista Peeks Dittman with her administrative assistant and partner agent, Rachael Wells, their mission is to help individuals, families and seniors find on-point health insurance solutions.

The agency’s name was inspired by Krista’s love of quilting. She feels like her work as an agent is very similar to quilting: it’s all about how you put the pieces together that makes the pattern come alive. Together with their third agent, Todd Kraft, the On Point team primarily serves the Lincoln and greater Nebraska communities but is also licensed in another dozen states.

They look forward to working with their community and putting the right “pieces” of health insurance in place for their family, friends and neighbors in Lincoln and across Nebraska. More information can be found at insuranceonpoint.com or call (402) 625-6578.

Makaylee Gayed is the founder and Creative Director of Lincoln Fashion , a platform dedicated to celebrating and elevating creative talent in the Midwest. As a designer herself, Makaylee recognized the need for more opportunities for artists, entrepreneurs, and fashion enthusiasts to connect, collaborate, and showcase their work right here in Nebraska.

In 2025, she launched Lincoln Fashion Weekend, a multi-day event that brings together designers, models, photographers, stylists, and local businesses for a series of runway shows, educational panels, and networking opportunities. What began as a vision to support emerging creatives has quickly grown into a vibrant community that highlights the innovation and diversity of the region’s fashion scene.

Lincoln Fashion is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where creatives can share their talents, build meaningful connections, and grow their brands. Through events, partnerships, and community initiatives, the organization continues to champion Midwest creativity while proving that fashion and artistic innovation thrive far beyond traditional fashion capitals. More information can be found at lincoln-fashion.com/getinvolved.

Stories like these reflect a broader trend happening across Nebraska’s business community. Women entrepreneurs continue to step forward with ideas, determination, and a willingness to build something meaningful not just for themselves, but for the people around them. Many of these businesses grow from a desire to solve a problem, serve a community need, or create a better path for future generations.

Along the way, those same entrepreneurs often become mentors, collaborators, and supporters of other local businesses. Their companies become part of the larger fabric of the community, contributing to economic growth while also fostering relationships and opportunities for others.

While every journey looks different, the common thread is resilience and a strong sense of purpose. As more women continue launching and leading businesses across Nebraska, their impact can be seen not only in the companies they build, but also in the communities that grow stronger alongside them.

By supporting women-owned businesses, you help strengthen economic growth, empower communities, and foster purposedriven progress. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive future. If you would like to be featured in our next women-owned business spotlight, call Paige at (402) 466-3330 or email Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com.