Strictly Business Lincoln - February 2026

A Paige From My Notebook...

a month centered on connection — and at Strictly Business, connection has always been at the heart of everything we do.

For more than three decades, our mission has remained the same: to connect businesses with the people, partners, and opportunities that help them grow. Today, that connection is stronger than ever through the powerful intersection of print, digital, and search.

When a business is featured in our magazine, it doesn’t stop on the page. Print creates credibility and trust — and that trust sparks action. Readers see a company in print, remember the name, and then do what consumers naturally do: they search online, visit websites, check reviews, and engage digitally. This moment — where print visibility turns into online discovery — is where real marketing momentum is created. As we move into 2026, I continue to be inspired by the resilience, innovation, and collaboration within

our Lincoln and Omaha business communities. From established companies to first-time entrepreneurs, the stories we share each month reflect a local economy built on relationships and reputation.

Strictly Business is more than a magazine — it’s a platform. One that builds awareness in print, amplifies exposure online, and drives meaningful engagement through digital channels. In today’s crowded online world, being seen first in a trusted print publication gives businesses a powerful advantage.

“Visibility leads to discovery. Discovery leads to growth. That’s the power of connection with Stricly Business.”

I want to sincerely thank our advertisers, contributors, and readers for your continued support. Your partnership allows us to promote great businesses, strengthen local brands, and help drive real results — both on the page and online.

Here’s to continued visibility, connection, and growth in the year ahead.

Warm Regards, Paige Zutavern

January marked a major milestone for T Square Movers: ten years in business. Reaching that point gave us a moment to reflect on where we started and how far we’ve come. February, however, is about momentum. It’s about carrying a decade of lessons forward and continuing to refine what we do best.

T Square Movers was founded in 2016 during a season that demanded resilience, adaptability, and grit. What began as a way to create stability slowly grew into a company rooted in trust, consistency, and responsibility. Moving is rarely just about furniture. It’s about life transitions, tight timelines, and high expectations. We’ve always understood the weight of that and built our business accordingly.

Today, T Square Movers offers both full-service and labor-only moving for residential and commercial clients. From homes and apartments to offices, warehouses, and in-building moves, we handle projects of all sizes. We also provide professional packing services, packing supplies, and reusable tote rentals, giving customers flexible options that fit their needs rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all solution. What truly defines us isn’t just what we offer. It’s how we operate.

We believe moving is a skilled trade that deserves to be mastered. That belief shapes our training, planning, and execution on every job. We’re committed to continual learning—improving loading techniques, prioritizing safety, refining communication, and building better systems. Mastery isn’t something you check off a list. It’s a long-term commitment. That mindset also shows up in our culture. T Square Movers is proud to be a sober moving company and a supportive workplace for individuals focused on personal growth and stability. For us, sobriety isn’t a tagline—it’s about reliability, accountability, and creating an environment where people can show up clear-headed and dependable for their teammates and customers.

Many of our movers have been with us for years, growing into leadership roles and helping set the standard for professionalism and care. We invest heavily in training, accountability, and development because when our team is supported, customers feel the difference.

Ten years in doesn’t mean we’ve arrived. It means we’ve earned the responsibility to keep improving. We’re grateful for the trust our customers place in us and committed to continuing this work with intention, integrity, and respect—for the trade, for our team, and for the community we serve.

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, Ashlyn D, & Emma B

SALES TEAM:

President/Sales Paige Zutavern – Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

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

Sales Laurie Dunn - LaurieD@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Commonwealth Electric Launches Confluence Technology Group

DAVINCI’S Now Offering Beer & Wine DELIVERY at Two Locations

Commonwealth Electric Company of the Midwest has formed a new subsidiary: Confluence Technology Group, to expand its low voltage and technology service capabilities. The new company builds on Commonwealth’s legacy of integrity, collaboration, and technical excellence, while positioning the company for continued innovation and growth across diverse markets.

Confluence Technology Group provides enhanced technology engineering and design, system integration services, and global account support. Its service offerings span voice and data systems, access control, intrusion detection, video surveillance, fire alarms, wireless networks, intercoms, fiber optics, and outside plant installations. The company aims to deliver integrated, cutting edge solutions without sacrificing the trusted service Commonwealth is known for.

T Michael Price, President and CEO of Commonwealth, emphasized that the formation of Confluence represents an evolution rather than a reset, building on decades of success with a renewed focus on innovation and teamwork.

Roger Hamilton, previously introduced as Commonwealth’s VP of Operations – Low Voltage in 2025, has been named President of Confluence Technology Group. He brings extensive industry experience and a vision for strengthening the company’s market position while maintaining its strong culture and customer commitment.

With locations across Nebraska, Iowa, Arizona, and Utah, Confluence Technology Group blends deep electrical contracting expertise with cutting-edge technology integration, offering value engineering, design input, material procurement, life cycle cost analysis, and cost saving installation options.

For more information, visit confluencetechnologygroup.com or commonwealthelectric.com.

EPIC Option Launches Donation Campaign to Empower Nebraskans and End Property Taxes

EPIC Option is proud to announce a bold initiative aimed at giving Nebraskans a voice at the ballot box to eliminate property taxes once and for all. The organization is launching a donation campaign to hire local Nebraskans to gather the final signatures needed to place this critical measure on the ballot.

Property tax valuations in parts of Nebraska have skyrocketed more than 20% annually for three years, resulting in a shocking 72% increase. Families cannot afford to sustain this burden.

EPIC Option is challenging every Nebraskan who is frustrated with ever-increasing property taxes to take action by donating 10% of what they currently pay in property taxes. This small investment could lead to a future where property taxes are eliminated FOREVER.

To learn more about EPIC Option and this historic effort, visit EPICoption.info. To donate, simply scan the accompanying QR code. You can also reach out to Mark Bonkiewicz, Campaign Chair at (402) 490-8612.

Together, we can make property tax a thing of the past.

DAVINCI’S is excited to announce the launch of beer and wine delivery at two Lincoln locations: 27th & Superior and 29th & Pine Lake.

Guests can now enjoy DAVINCI’S full menu along with a curated selection of beer and wine delivered directly to their door. Making weeknight dinners, game days, and gatherings even more convenient.

Beer and wine delivery is available from the 27th & Superior and 29th & Pine Lake locations for guests within each location’s delivery area. If you’re outside those areas, beer and wine are still available for convenient pickup. All alcohol purchases require guests to be 21 years of age or older, and a valid ID will be checked at delivery or pickup.

This expansion reflects DAVINCI’S ongoing commitment to elevating the guest experience for the Lincoln community.

For more information and menu details, visit davincis.com or call (402) 475-1111.

REGA Engineering Supports Development of Drury Plaza Hotel Downtown Lincoln

REGA Engineering Group, Inc., a leading civil engineering and consulting firm serving the Midwest since 2003, proudly announces its integral role in the development of the Drury Plaza Hotel Lincoln Downtown, a major new hospitality destination that recently opened in the heart of Lincoln.

Located at 920 Q Street, the Drury Plaza Hotel Lincoln Downtown represents Drury Hotels’ first location in the state of Nebraska and anchors downtown Lincoln’s thriving urban core. The new hotel features 210 guest rooms, more than 2,400 square feet of flexible meeting space, and a full suite of guest amenities designed for both business and leisure travelers.

REGA Engineering provided essential civil engineering, site and streetscape design, and land development services for the project, working closely with Drury Hotels and project partners to ensure the successful delivery of infrastructure solutions tailored to the site’s unique urban context. This collaboration demonstrates REGA’s commitment to responsive, innovative design that supports high-impact developments across Nebraska and beyond.

“Partnering on the Drury Plaza Hotel Lincoln Downtown has been an exciting opportunity for our team,” said Nathaniel Burnett, President of REGA Engineering Group. “This project showcases our ability to deliver thoughtful engineering solutions that complement community priorities, enhance downtown livability, and support economic growth.”

As the Drury Plaza Hotel Lincoln Downtown begins welcoming guests, REGA Engineering remains committed to supporting clients with comprehensive engineering services that help bring transformative projects to life throughout the Midwest.

For more information please email info@regaeng.com, call (402) 484-7342 or visit their website at regaeng.com.

Lincoln Coin & Bullion Marks 20 Years in BusinessWithUnprecedentedMarketActivity

Lincoln Coin & Bullion is celebrating a major milestone in 2026—20 years in business—while navigating one of the busiest periods in its history. Founded on Feb. 6, 2006, the company has grown into a trusted, full-scale precious metals dealer serving clients locally and nationwide.

As global events and market conditions drive a historic movement in precious metals pricing, Lincoln Coin & Bullion is experiencing an unprecedented surge in demand. Increased activity in gold, silver, platinum, and palladium markets has resulted in a significant rise in customer inquiries, transactions, and appraisal requests.

The team remains committed to providing thorough, first-rate service during this period of heightened demand and asks for patience as they work diligently to respond to every customer. Clients are encouraged to leave voicemail messages when calling, as all inquiries will be returned as quickly and carefully as possible.

Over the past two decades, Lincoln Coin & Bullion has built a reputation for transparency, security, and expertise. The business specializes in bullion transactions ranging from three- to sevenfigure purchases and sales, as well as numismatic coin and currency collections, including paid appraisals. Their approach emphasizes privacy and trust, operating through locked-door, appointment-only services and maintaining advanced testing capabilities to ensure authenticity and accuracy.

For more information, visit lincolncoinandbullion.com.

Lincoln

Running Co. Celebrates 50 Years of Helping Lincoln Stay Active

Lincoln Running Co. is celebrating a major milestone in 2026… 50 years of serving the Lincoln community from the same location, under the same family ownership, and with the same mission that started it all. Founded in 1976 and locally owned and operated by the Rogers family, Lincoln Running Co. has spent five decades helping people of all ages find the right shoes and gear to stay active, healthy, and moving.

More than a specialty retail shop, Lincoln Running Co. has built its reputation on expertise, personal service, and genuine care for every customer who walks through the door. Inside the store, customers find running and walking shoes, jackets, tights, socks, and recovery tools, not just products, but essential pieces of a personal wellness toolbox. A properly fitted shoe supports healthy movement, reduces strain, and helps prevent injury, making activity more comfortable and sustainable for kids, families, and athletes alike.

The store’s team is made up of compassionate runners of all experience levels, mirroring the diversity of their customers. From first-time 5K participants to seasoned marathoners, every customer receives the same attention and guidance. With deep roots in the community and long-standing relationships with local medical professionals, Lincoln Running Co. has become a trusted resource for injury prevention, training support, and education.

Recognized as one of the Top 50 Best Running Stores in America for the third time, Lincoln Running Co. remains most proud of the relationships built with its customers over the past 50 years.

To learn more, visit lincrunningcompany.com or stop in to celebrate this milestone year.

FNBO Recognized as Family-Friendly Workplace

FNBO is among the first organizations to earn the Lincoln Family-Friendly Workplace Certification.

The certification is part of a new joint initiative from Lincoln Littles and the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development (LPED). The program recognizes employers that support working families with young children, prioritize family well-being and help make Lincoln a great place to live, work and play.

Thirteen local organizations, including FNBO, are among the first group to earn the certification, which honors employers that demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting working families.

The certification process helps businesses attract and retain a strong, inclusive local workforce through the implementation of family-friendly workplace policies. To qualify, employers must meet at least seven of 10 criteria, including paid parental leave, flexible scheduling or remote and hybrid work options, and access to caregiver support resources.

Supporting working families is increasingly important in Lincoln, where 78% of children under age 6 have parents participating in the workforce, according to the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development.

According to Lincoln Littles, FNBO demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting working families, fostering an inclusive workplace culture, and prioritizing the well-being of employees and their children.

“This certification reflects how important employees and their families are to FNBO,” said Betsy Vrba, commercial payments advisor in Lincoln. “Supporting working families helps us create a workplace where employees can succeed and strengthens the community we serve.”

For more information about FNBO, visit fnbo.com.

Member FDIC

Sun Valley Lanes & Games

Opens League Registration

Sun Valley Lanes & Games offers bowling, sand volleyball and corn hole leagues for youth to senior citizens, and for a variety of skill levels.

For their sand volleyball leagues, they offer 6 versus 6 leagues for nine weeks. All participants must be at least 18 years old to play in this league. The Returning Team Registration period for spring 2026 leagues will be from Feb. 1 –Feb. 22. Open Registration, for new teams, will begin on Feb. 23.

For their cornhole league, they offer league play several days a week in spring, summer and fall and also offer free play on your own time. Mondays are their Co-ed league and all other leagues can be comprised of anyone. Participants for this league must also be 18 years or older and registration period will be the same as their sand volleyball league.

Sun Valley Lanes & Games remains committed to provides fun, whether you want a competitive atmosphere or to try something new, they’ve got a league for you to enjoy.

Complete details available at sunvalleylanes.com/leagues.

Let’s Pickle Bar Celebrates Ribbon Cutting and One-Year Anniversary in Lincoln

Let’s Pickle Bar recently hit a milestone moment with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in partnership with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, marking both its grand opening with the Chamber and its one-year anniversary in the Lincoln community. Guests, staff, and community members gathered to recognize the growth of Lincoln’s premier indoor pickleball facility and to celebrate a successful first year in business.

Located in Lincoln, Let’s Pickle Bar features six professional indoor pickleball courts along with a fullservice restaurant and bar, creating a space where recreation and dining come together. Open to players of all skill levels, the facility has quickly become a destination for corporate events, birthday parties, league play, and casual nights out.

The goal is to provide a welcoming space where people of all ages and abilities can experience the excitement of indoor pickleball while enjoying fresh, high-quality food and drinks. By promoting wellness, camaraderie, and social connection, the facility aims to be a community hub where players come to compete, unwind, and connect.

With its first year complete and continued growth ahead, Let’s Pickle Bar looks forward to building on its momentum and serving Lincoln for many years to come. For more information, please visit letspicklebar.com.

AlphaZedBusinessServicesBringsEfficiency to Local Organizations

Alpha Zed Business Services continues to support local businesses and nonprofits by helping them streamline systems, reduce manual work, and operate more efficiently—allowing teams to focus on what matters most.

When Amanda Fairley, LLC reached out, owner Amanda Fairley knew her growing business needed better systems. As a coach, facilitator, and color and style analyst, her time was best spent working directly with clients—not managing manual scheduling and administrative tasks. After learning Amanda’s priorities, Alpha Zed implemented a new booking system that automated previously manual processes while also reducing costs. The result was a smoother workflow that better supports her day-today operations. Learn more at amandafairleyllc.com.

Alpha Zed also partnered with A Blessing of Hope, an organization dedicated to supporting families in the community. Their team was seeking improved operational tools to better manage internal processes and reporting. Alpha Zed began by creating a more reliable system for collecting and reporting travel data—saving time, reducing frustration, and improving accuracy. Additional projects are planned to further enhance reporting and efficiency, allowing the organization to devote more energy to its mission. Alpha Zed is proud to continue working alongside A Blessing of Hope as they provide hope and opportunity to families throughout the area. Visit ablessingofhope.org to learn more.

Rather than relying on temporary fixes and disconnected tools, Alpha Zed focuses on building systems that work together intentionally. By simplifying processes, the company helps organizations spend less time managing technology and more time connecting with the people they serve.

For more information, visit alphazedservices.com or contact kim@ alphazedservices.com.

8320 Northwood Dr. #800, Lincoln, NE (402) 261-3738

5500 Old Cheney Rd #4, Lincoln, NE (402) 261-3221

TWO LOCATIONS: ORDER ONLINE! mitierralincoln.com

Build the Culture Your People Deserve With Leadership Harbor

Culture doesn’t happen by accident. It’s created by what leaders model, measure and reinforce every day.

That’s why the Culture Scorecard at Leadership Harbor has become such a powerful tool for organizations ready to move from good intentions to real, sustainable impact.

The Culture Scorecard gives leaders a clear, honest snapshot of what’s really happening inside their organization. It highlights strengths worth celebrating and pinpoints gaps that may be quietly limiting engagement, trust, and performance. Instead of guessing how your culture feels to your team, you gain practical insight that drives focused action.

What makes the Culture Scorecard especially valuable is its simplicity and clarity. It turns something often viewed as “soft” into something measurable, actionable, and deeply strategic. Leaders can align values with behaviors, strengthen communication, and intentionally shape a culture where people feel seen, supported, and motivated to give their best.

When culture improves, everything improves—retention, collaboration, innovation, and results. The Culture Scorecard isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. It gives you a starting point and a roadmap for meaningful growth.

If you’re ready to lead with greater clarity, confidence, and connection, the Culture Scorecard is a powerful next step. Leadership Harbor is a Lincoln-based coaching and development organization focused on helping individuals and teams grow their leadership skills through personalized coaching, training, and intentional development experiences. Learn more or start the conversation at leadershipharbor.com or email grow@leadershipharbor.com.

The Back Nine Golf Keeps Golfers Ready All Year

February in Nebraska doesn’t leave much room for outdoor tee times, but at The Back Nine Golf in South Lincoln, golfers don’t have to put their clubs away. The indoor golf facility gives players a way to stay active, keep their swing sharp, and stay on top of their game.

Using Full Swing simulators trusted by professionals, members and the public can play dozens of well-known courses while receiving detailed feedback on each shot. For those looking to improve, PGA professional lessons offer focused instruction that translates all year.

The Back Nine also leans into the social side of the game. Open to the public until 8 p.m. and accessible 24/7 for members, the space encourages guests to relax, bring their own food and beverages, and enjoy the experience together. It’s an easy option for a Valentine’s date night, a casual group outing, or an informal client meetup.

Indoor Golf leagues keep competition going all year, while corporate memberships offer private bay access and flexible options for teams and businesses.

When spring arrives, golfers at The Back Nine won’t be starting from scratch. Learn more or book time at thebackninegolf.com/ lincoln-ne-south.

Nebraska State Capitol, in Partnership with Lincoln Airport, Shined Blue for Human Trafficking Awareness

On January 10, the Nebraska State Capitol was turned blue for the first time in state history in recognition of Human Trafficking Prevention Month, symbolizing a unified statewide commitment to awareness, prevention, and action. To mark the occasion, the nonprofits I’ve Got A Name and The Set Me Free Project, in partnership with Lincoln Airport, hosted a community event, Stronger Together, outside the Capitol.

As a key transportation gateway for Nebraska, Lincoln Airport recognizes the critical role airports play in identifying and helping prevent human trafficking. LNK is an active participant in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Blue Campaign and a partner of the Blue Lightning Initiative, which provides training for aviation and airport personnel to recognize indicators of trafficking and report concerns appropriately. LNK is proud to be the first airport in Nebraska to participate in these initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to the safety of passengers, employees, and the community.

The event brought together advocates, service providers, and community members for a visible show of solidarity against human trafficking. Attendees wore blue and heard from organizations working on the front lines of prevention, education, and survivor support, gaining insight into how trafficking impacts communities and how collective action can drive meaningful change.

Participating organizations included Voices of Hope, Lincoln Police Department, CEDARS, Friendship Home, BraveBe, Lily Haven, Nebraska Coalition, and Innocence Freed. The evening served as a powerful reminder that when communities unite, we are stronger together. For more information, please visit lincolnairport.com or facebook.com/LincolnAirport.

Rose Cat Coffee Expands Services with Convenient Airpot Orders

In response to growing demand for convenient, locally sourced options, Rose Cat Coffee has expanded its offerings to include airpot beverage orders, making it easier for businesses and organizations to serve quality drinks at meetings and events.

Designed with convenience in mind, the new service allows customers to preorder airpots of freshly brewed coffee—regular or decaf—as well as iced tea and lemonade. Orders require a 24-hour notice and come fully equipped with cups, lids, sleeves, and all necessary serving supplies, making it easy to bring quality beverages to meetings, gatherings, and events without additional coordination.

Customers simply place their order online, pick up the airpot, and return it after use. A fully refundable deposit is included to ensure the airpot is returned, helping Rose Cat Coffee maintain the sustainability and availability of the service.

Rose Cat Coffee Co. is a Lincoln-based coffee shop dedicated to creating joyful, inclusive employment for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. With a mission to provide meaningful work experience, income, and community connection, Rose Cat empowers its employees to be seen, valued, and celebrated. Every cup served supports a more inclusive community where love and belonging are the standard. For more information or to place an airpot order, visit rosecatecoffee.com/order-airpots.

Willet Construction Hosts Rainmaker Group at Home Design Studio

Willet Construction recently welcomed members of the Rainmaker Group to its Home Design Studio for the organization’s January meeting on January 6, 2026. Rainmaker is a networking group that operates under Center Sphere, a professional organization dedicated to helping business leaders build meaningful relationships and grow through collaboration.

The Willet Home Design Studio provided a welcoming and professional setting for the gathering, allowing members to come together to exchange ideas, discuss common business challenges and explore ways to better serve the Lincoln community. Rainmaker Group members represent a wide range of industries, all focused on providing products and services that support residents and businesses throughout Lincoln and the surrounding area.

Meetings like this allow local professionals to connect, share resources and identify opportunities to strengthen their businesses through strategic partnerships and peer support. By hosting the group, Willet Construction helped facilitate conversations that promote business growth and community engagement.

The Rainmaker Group continues to seek new members who are interested in building relationships, expanding their networks and contributing to a collaborative business environment. Professionals who would like to learn more about joining the Rainmaker Group are encouraged to reach out for additional information.

For more details about Willet Construction and its Home Design Studio, visit WilletConstruction.com. Those interested in the Rainmaker Group may contact Jason at Willet Construction at jason@ willetconstruction.com

Find Ideas to Update Your Home at The Nebraska Builders Home & Garden Show

The 54th annual Nebraska Builders Home & Garden Show, produced by the Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL), will feature more than 200 exhibitors at the Sandhills Global Event Center. The Nebraska Builders Home & Garden Show will take place Feb. 13–15. Attendees can explore home and garden inspiration Friday from noon to 8 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a portion of the $10 admission benefiting the Food Bank of Lincoln and free entry for children 12 and under.

Exhibitors in the Currency and TractorHouse Pavilions will showcase fresh ideas for landscaping, decorating, remodeling, and building a new home. The Show highlights the latest products on the market for both do-it-yourselfers and those who prefer to hire a professional. Whether attendees want to connect with industry professionals or explore new products, the Home & Garden Show offers an outstanding opportunity for inspiration.

Special Features:

• High School Interior & Residential Design Contest – The 54th annual contest will feature design entries from area high school students, on display during the Show.

• Kids Square – Kids Square will include presentations by Wildlife Encounters along with hands-on activities such as balloon creations, face painting, games, and fun projects for kids.

A complete list of exhibitors is available at hbal.org.

LincolnStarsHostHockeyFightsCancerNight at the Ice Box

The Lincoln Stars invite fans and community members to stand together in the fight against cancer during Hockey Fights Cancer Night, presented in conjunction with the April Sampson Cancer Center, on Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Ice Box. This impactful evening of hockey is dedicated to raising awareness, honoring cancer survivors, remembering loved ones, and recognizing the healthcare professionals and community members who work tirelessly to provide care and hope. Doors open at 5 p.m., with puck drop at 6:05 p.m.

Hockey Fights Cancer Night is also a special jersey night, as the Lincoln Stars will wear themed jerseys during the game. The jerseys will be auctioned off following the game, with proceeds supporting local cancer initiatives. The event is held in partnership with the April Sampson Cancer Center, a new, comprehensive community cancer center in Lincoln, located at 4101 Tiger Lily Road. The April Sampson Cancer Center brings together nearly every element of cancer care and treatment under one roof, offering advanced technology in a healing, comfortable environment. Its mission reflects not only excellence in treatment but also compassion, innovation, and patient-centered care.

“Bryan is grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Lincoln Stars.” Bryan Foundation Executive Director, Valerie Hunt, said. “The April Sampson Cancer Center is committed to patient-focused, comprehensive cancer care. Your support directly impacts local patients and their families, providing comfort, navigation, resources, and hope during an incredibly challenging time.”

Tickets for Hockey Fights Cancer Night are available at lincolnstars.com.

BUSINESS NEWS

AutomotiveSolutionsHelpsDriversStaySafe

This Winter

Winter driving can expose every weakness in a vehicle. Cold temperatures, slick roads, and increased wear make this season especially demanding for drivers across the region. Automotive Solutions is committed to helping motorists stay safe, dependable, and road-ready all winter long. Founded in 2021, Automotive Solutions provides automotive care focused on accuracy, reliability, and practical problem-solving. From routine preventative maintenance to custom builds, fabrication, and fleet management, their team supports a wide range of vehicles and driving needs. During the winter months, their services focus on critical safety components including brakes, tires, batteries, and fluid systems — all essential for navigating harsh weather conditions.

Automotive Solutions also offers free pre-purchase inspections, giving customers confidence when buying a vehicle. These inspections are especially valuable during winter, when reliability matters most. By identifying potential issues early, drivers can avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.

In addition to mechanical services, Automotive Solutions offers vinyl and graphic design services. Their team creates vehicle decals, partial wraps, and full wraps for cars, trucks, boats, snowmobiles, and business fleets, delivering both function and visual impact.

As winter continues and road conditions remain unpredictable, Automotive Solutions remains dedicated to keeping drivers prepared, protected, and confidently on the road.

For more information, visit automotivesolutionslincoln.com or call (531) 249-5600.

The Residence at Gramercy: Premier Independent & Assisted Living In Lincoln

The Residence at Gramercy, located at 6800 A Street, is a premier Independent and Assisted Living community that has proudly served seniors with compassion, dignity, and dedication since 1985. For nearly four decades, Gramercy has been a place where residents are truly known, valued, and supported in a warm, welcoming environment they can call home.

Gramercy has recently entered an exciting new chapter with a change in ownership and is now a proud member of Cima Senior Living. True to the meaning of Cima—“the peak”—their community is rising to new heights by setting a new standard of excellence in senior living.

Significant enhancements are already underway, including new carpet, fresh paint, renovated common areas, and refreshed spaces designed to promote comfort, connection, and quality of life.

Safety and innovation are key priorities. Gramercy has implemented advanced AI fall detection sensors and an upgraded analytical call system from Care.Life, allowing for faster response times, proactive monitoring, and enhanced communication—providing residents with increased safety and families with greater peace of mind.

Dining has also been elevated with a made-from-scratch menu focused on quality ingredients, nutrition, and great flavor.

What truly sets Gramercy apart is the people. Their leadership team brings a combined 112 years of senior living experience, ensuring compassionate, personalized care every day. They invite you to experience

The Residence at Gramercy, where care, innovation, and excellence come together. For more information, please visit theresidenceatgramercy.com.

Now Flying from Lincoln.

Crepe Café Offers Free Crepes for Veterans and First Responders

Crepe Café, located at 2700 S Street inside the historic Masonic Temple, is serving up fresh, made-to-order crepes featuring both savory and sweet options. Owned and operated by veteran Paul Larsen, the café offers a cozy new spot for locals to enjoy a warm breakfast, relaxed lunch, or midday treat.

Sweet crepes are filled with fresh fruits and decadent toppings, while savory selections feature flavorful proteins and thoughtfully prepared ingredients. Whether stopping in for a slow morning meal or a quick bite during the day, Crepe Café offers something for every craving.

In appreciation of those who serve, Crepe Café is offering one free crepe and drink to walk-in customers who are veterans or first responders. This offer is available for in-store guests only and is not valid through third-party delivery services such as Uber Eats.

Crepe Café is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For more information, call (402) 318-1159.

Professional Realty Group Expands Into Arizona

Professional Realty Group is expanding their services to Omaha and Arizona, with their partnering with industry leader Mike Bjork (The Bjork Group - Omaha) who shattered the $100M annual production record. They’ll be offering the same great services they already have in Nebraska. The Arizona office will serve Tucson and Phoenix and all the cities surrounding/in between. Bjork served as a Fire Fighter/EMT in Tucson for 10+ years, and knows AZ better than many. The office will be opening in 2026 and more details will be coming out in the months to come.

Keep your eyes peeled as they’ll still have PRG-NE.com to serve their Nebraska clients, but soon will be adding PRG-AZ.com to serve all the friends and clients already in Arizona, and any who want to relocate, or have a second home there. PRG and partners are also building an incredible AI platform to support their agents and clients that will bolster not only efficiency, but add many benefits that will simplify transactions.

Professional Realty Group plans to add more locations soon. Their goal is to expand into Kansas/Missouri, Colorado and Oklahoma in the next 12 to 36 months.

They’re sad the economy seems to be struggling, but there’s always big opportunity to be seized in times like this, while many are withdrawn/fearful to make moves, some of the biggest growth happens during downturns.

This expansion reflects Professional Realty Group’s continued growth and demand for their trusted services in Residential/Commercial real estate beyond Nebraska. By extending their footprint into Arizona, PRG is positioned to better serve existing clients relocating or investing while continuing to build momentum toward future multistate expansion.

For more information please visit prg-ne.com and call Ben Bleicher at (402) 419-6309, or Mike Bjork at (402) 522-6131.

Pro Business Plans Launches ProAI to Expand Access to Enterprise-Grade Business Resources

Pro Business Plans announced the launch of ProAI, a new AI-powered platform designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners plan, validate, and fund their businesses using tools historically reserved for large enterprises.

For years, founders have faced high costs, fragmented resources, and limited access to expert guidance when turning ideas into viable businesses. ProAI was created to close that gap by bringing structure, clarity, and professional-grade insight into a single, accessible platform. ProAI guides users through critical early-stage and growth milestones, including business planning, financial modeling, market analysis, and funding readiness. The platform combines intelligent automation with proven business frameworks, enabling users to move from concept to execution with confidence while still having access to live human support when needed.

“I’m incredibly excited to release ProAI into the world,” said Aaron Hill, CEO of Pro Business Plans. “For too long, aspiring entrepreneurs have been held back by cost, complexity, and lack of access. ProAI is designed to remove those historical barriers and give everyday founders access to the same caliber of tools and insight used by enterprise companies.”

ProAI is now live and available nationwide. Entrepreneurs can learn more or get started by visiting proai.co.

Elite Referral Networks Announces February Networking Events

Elite Referral Networks is hosting a lineup of February networking events designed to connect local professionals, build relationships, and create new business opportunities throughout the Lincoln community.

Starting off the month with the Tuesday Morning Club on Feb. 10, from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at The Chocolate Season. This morning gathering offers members and guests an opportunity to start the day with conversation, collaboration, and coffee in a relaxed setting.

On Feb. 12, members are invited to Table for 6, a small-group lunch experience in Southeast Lincoln. This event is exclusive to members and encourages deeper connection through casual, focused conversation. To RSVP and receive the lunch location, participants can text (402) 326-5823.

The Friday Afternoon Club takes place on Feb. 20 from 4 to 6 p.m., with the location to be announced. This after-hours event provides a social atmosphere for professionals to meet, exchange ideas, and expand their networks. Closing the month is 4th Wednesday is a Marathon 1-to-1 on Feb. 25 at 6 p.m. at The Talon Room. This fastpaced networking event is structured like speed dating for business owners, allowing participants to meet multiple professionals in one evening. One-on-one meeting lengths will be based on attendance, making it an efficient way to build new connections with just one date on the calendar.

Elite Referral Networks continues to create meaningful opportunities for professionals to grow their relationships and businesses across Lincoln.

For more information, visit elitereferralnetwork.com.

Building Connections That Matter

Partnering with our Commercial Lending Team is more than just business—we build connections that matter.

Trust our team to provide a custom, solutions-based approach to support your efforts and help your business succeed.

Ready to get started? Give us a call today!

AI For Small Businesses: Insights From ALLO Business

When many people hear “artificial intelligence,” they think of futuristic robots or science fiction. But in the last few years, AI has evolved into a practical, everyday tool for small and mid-sized businesses looking to operate more efficiently and stay competitive.

AI is already helping organizations respond to customers faster, create targeted marketing content, identify qualified sales leads, and automate routine operational tasks. This helps businesses improve their efficiency, productivity, and profitability.

But adopting AI isn’t just about turning on new tools. Without the right foundation, AI can introduce security, privacy, and compliance risks. Improperly managed data, misconfigured systems, or unvetted platforms can create vulnerabilities that put sensitive business information at risk. As AI becomes more data-driven, strong oversight and cybersecurity protections are essential.

That’s where having the right local technology partner matters. At ALLO Business, the focus is on helping organizations understand how AI fits into their existing systems and ensuring their networks, data, and security controls are ready to support it safely. With managed IT, cybersecurity guidance, and ongoing local support, businesses can adopt new technology with confidence.

AI doesn’t mean replacing people, but businesses that use it wisely, securely, and strategically will inevitably outpace those who don’t.

Thinking about adding AI tools to your tech stack? ALLO ensures that your systems are ready to support new technology. Learn more at AlloBusiness.com or call (844) 560-2556.

Hub Café Celebrates 10 Years with Ribbon Cutting and New Dining Experience

Hub Café recently celebrated its 10year anniversary with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in partnership with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and Visit Lincoln, joined by staff, community members, and local supporters. The celebration featured remarks from owners Jacob and Crystal, who shared gratitude for a decade of community support before cutting the ribbon with ceremonial oversized scissors. Guests enjoyed food provided by Grazing Gouda Nebraska, while unseasonably warm 60-degree January weather added to the festive atmosphere.

Known for fresh, farm-to-table dining with an emphasis on respect, sustainability, and community, Hub Café has become a favorite local gathering spot for breakfast and lunch. The café was also featured as a participating restaurant in Lincoln’s #HereForTheFoodFestival in 2025, further highlighting its place in the city’s evolving food scene.

As part of its continued growth, Hub Café has recently introduced a new sit-down service model, transitioning from counter ordering to full table service with one-on-one servers. This change is designed to improve guest experience while also supporting staff through a more personal and efficient service approach.

After ten years of serving fresh, thoughtfully prepared meals, Hub Café continues to evolve while staying true to its mission — bringing people together over food that’s both meaningful and memorable. For more information on The Hub Café, please visit hubcafelincoln.com.

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Sumner Place: Keeping Seniors Healthy During Flu Season

Lincoln Select Sets A New Business Standard For Real Estate Teams In Lincoln

At Sumner Place, they pride themselves on taking care of their seniors and the aging vulnerable population. After the holiday celebrations we find ourselves in the thick of flu season along with the Lincoln community. Sumner Place abides by CDC recommendations for keeping healthy habits to limit the exposure of illness to their residents.

Frequent hand washing, hand sanitizer stations scattered throughout the building and face mask wearing are some of the protocols you will see their staff engaging in. They recommend individuals who have recently been sick or who are not feeling well to come and visit them at a later date, when the community flu rate is down.

For those coming into their building, they do have face masks available and recommend folks wear them. They appreciate the flexibility of visitors and the team. Together, we can keep the senior community safe.

For more information on Sumner Place, visit sumnerplacecare.com.

Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting on March 24

The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce will host its 2026 Annual Meeting on March 24, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Hundreds of Chamber members and community leaders will be in attendance as the organization recognizes recent accomplishments made possible by its valued members and looks ahead to Lincoln’s continued growth.

Featured keynote speaker Ndamukong Suh brings a unique blend of athletic achievement, engineering knowledge, and business leadership. A Super Bowl champion, entrepreneur, and investor, Suh has competed in 13 NFL seasons as an All-Pro defensive lineman and earned a championship ring in Super Bowl LV with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Drafted second overall in the 2010 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions, his career also included time with the Miami Dolphins, Los Angeles Rams, and Philadelphia Eagles.

Beyond football, Suh’s primary business focus is real estate, which makes up the largest portion of his investment portfolio. For more than a decade, he has invested in and developed properties across the United States, with an emphasis on multi-family housing and expanding access to attainable living options.

His passion for community-centered development is reflected through his role as Partner in HMS Development, a company focused on mixed-use projects designed to strengthen neighborhoods. Current initiatives include Alberta Alley, a diversity-minded development supporting Black business owners and business owners of color, and an in-progress attainable housing project that will provide affordable and workforce housing for young professionals.

The Chamber’s Annual Meeting offers an opportunity to celebrate progress, connect with peers, and gain insight from one of today’s most dynamic business leaders.

For event and registration information, visit lcoc.com/events.

Lincoln Select Real Estate Group at Nebraska Realty continues to set the standard for highperformance real estate teams in Nebraska, combining proven systems, exceptional support, and a culture built on growth and accountability.

Consistently ranked the top producing team in Lincoln, Lincoln Select has earned Nebraska Realty’s Top Producing Large Team from 2018 to present, and has been recognized as a Lincoln’s Choice Award winner. In 2022 the team was recognized by Real Trends and the Wall Street Journal nationally as the 24th team in the nation for production.

In 2025 Lincoln Select partnered with PLACE, an industry leader in real estate business services, coaching, and technology. This partnership further equips agents with progressive tools, comprehensive support, and systems to streamline transactions, increase productivity, and deliver an elevated experience to clients. According to CEO Matt Mick and COO Greta Rottler, “Partnering with PLACE gives our agents the coaching and leverage needed to accelerate their business growth - allowing them to focus on what matters most, building relationships and delivering an elevated client experience.”

Lincoln Select empowers agents to build resilient, scalable businesses. Our model combines strategic systems, coaching, with benefits such as subsidized health insurance, revenue share, and stock options—giving agents the freedom to focus less on operational strain and more on guiding their clients in building and managing wealth through real estate For more information, visit lincolnselect.com.

1776 Grounds Maintenance Adds Two New Services

1776 Grounds Maintenance has announced the addition of two new services designed to better support commercial and property owners across Lincoln: sprinkler system maintenance and empty-lot mowing.

The new sprinkler system service includes seasonal start-up, summer system checks, and winter shut-down. By caring for irrigation systems alongside lawn mowing and lawn treatments, 1776 Grounds Maintenance now offers a more complete approach to turf health. Proper watering and mowing are especially important during Lincoln’s dry summer months, helping produce thicker, healthier grass and well-maintained landscapes. In 2024, the company also added equipment to provide empty-lot mowing and cutting. Lots are serviced on schedules tailored to property needs — monthly, as needed or annual cutting. Cutting at least once a year makes a big difference to preserve your ground and not lose it to the trees and weeds. With adding these services, you can have 1776 care for your grounds from day one of buying the property, and they hope to do all of your Grounds Care for 10 years.

Founded in 2001, 1776 Grounds Maintenance has built a reputation for dependable, year-round property care. The company provides lawn care, snow removal, and total grounds maintenance for commercial properties throughout Lincoln, along with services for homeowners associations, apartment complexes, and acreages.

For more information, visit 1776gm.com.

Graduate Lincoln Celebrates Transition to HiltonProperty,AnnouncesMeetingPlanner Incentive

Graduate Lincoln is celebrating it’s one year anniversary of joining the Hilton family, marking an exciting new chapter for the hotel in the heart of Lincoln’s Historic Haymarket District. The transition positions Graduate Lincoln as part of Hilton’s global network while continuing to offer the distinctive character and local spirit guests have come to know.

To celebrate becoming a Hilton property, Graduate Lincoln is offering Double Meeting Planner Points for events booked by March 31. This incentive provides added value for organizations, businesses, and planners looking to host meetings, conferences, and events in a central, walkable location near downtown Lincoln and the University of Nebraska campus.

Known as a hub for Husker happenings, Graduate Lincoln sits just steps from campus and surrounded by the energy of the Haymarket. The hotel offers an inviting atmosphere for visitors, students, faculty, and alumni alike. Its versatile event spaces make it an ideal setting for corporate meetings, educational gatherings, and social celebrations. The property is also well-suited for weddings, combining style, convenience, and personalized service. With its new Hilton affiliation, Graduate Lincoln continues to elevate guest experiences while maintaining its local identity and connection to the Lincoln community.

For event inquiries or booking information, contact: Jenae Boudreau at Jenae.Boudreau@hilton.com.

What’s Your Air Score? Technology

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FreeEducationalClassOnBirdFeedAtRyan’s

Market

Not sure what bird feed or feeder you need for your feathered friends? Come to Ryan’s Market on Feb. 7 from 1 to 2 p.m. to learn about different types of feed and feeders.

Ryan’s Market carries a variety of bird feed and bird feeders to help attract different types of bird in your area. They also carry bird houses and different accessories for your yard.

Email them at ryan@ryansmkt.com by Feb. 5 and your name will get entered for a chance to win a 50# bag of premium mix sunflower bird feed. Register the day of the class for a chance to win a 25# bag of premium mix sunflower bird feed. Must be present to win.

Ryan’s Market is located at 5720 Johanna Road, Suite 1. Lincoln, NE 68507. You can view their products at ryansmkt.com.

Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group Announces the Savvy Senior Transition™ System—A Compassion-First Approach to Senior Moves

The Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group of Nebraska Realty launched the Savvy Senior Transition™ System, a structured, compassion-driven approach designed to guide older adults and their families through one of life’s most emotional and complex decisions— moving from a long-time home.

Unlike traditional services that focus on selling property, the Savvy Senior Transition™ System focuses on people. The program was created to help seniors move from feeling overwhelmed and uncertain to feeling informed, confident, and at peace—whether they are downsizing, aging in place, relocating to senior living, or managing the home of a loved one with dementia.

“We saw too many families being rushed into decisions they weren’t ready to make,” said Alicia Chrastil, founder of the Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group and Senior Transition Specialist. “This system slows the process down, protects a senior’s dignity and equity, and surrounds them with the right support before a sign ever goes in the yard.”

In addition to the new transition system, the organization is expanding its long-running educational outreach. The Nebraska Savvy Seniors Empowerment Seminars have officially launched in Omaha, and will now be held the second Wednesday of every month at St. Andrews Methodist Church, 15050 West Maple Road at 10 a.m.

Community-Focused Support

The Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group partners with trusted local professionals—attorneys, financial planners, senior living communities, home modification providers, healthcare specialists and more - to provide wraparound guidance. The team also supports the Savvy Aging, the Nebraska Chapter of the National Aging in Place Council, further strengthening resources for older adults across the state. Families interested in learning more about the Savvy Senior Transition™ System or attending an upcoming Omaha or Lincoln seminar can contact Alicia Chrastil at 402-499-8147 or visit NeSavvyeniors.com

Savannah Pines Recognized as a 2026 Best of Senior Living Provider

Savannah Pines Retirement Community in Lincoln has been named a 2026 Best of Senior Living Provider by A Place for Mom, a leading national platform that helps families make informed senior living decisions. The recognition reflects consistently high ratings and verified reviews from residents and their families, highlighting communities that deliver exceptional experiences and trusted care.

Savannah Pines is part of Resort Lifestyle Communities (RLC), a national organization specializing in independent senior living. As part of this year’s awards, multiple RLC communities earned recognition, with several receiving All-Star status — the program’s highest distinction — reserved for top-rated senior living communities nationwide. Savannah Pines’ inclusion in this honor underscores its commitment to resident satisfaction, hospitality, and quality of life.

The Best of Senior Living designation is based entirely on feedback from residents and families. Communities must meet rigorous review volume and rating thresholds over an extended period, demonstrating sustained excellence rather than one-time achievement.

Located in Lincoln, Savannah Pines offers an all-inclusive independent living lifestyle with restaurant-style dining, social and wellness programming, housekeeping, transportation services, and thoughtfully designed residences — all without buy-in fees. The community is designed to allow residents to settle in comfortably and confidently, with the ability to access additional support services if needs change over time.

To learn more about Savannah Pines, visit rlcommunities.com/ communities/nebraska/savannah-pines-retirement. To view the full Best of Senior Living awards, visit aplaceformom.com/awards.

Lancaster County Seeks Applicants for the County Board of Zoning Appeals

Lancaster County is seeking applicants interested in an appointment to the County Board of Zoning Appeals to fill a recently vacated position with a five-year term, which ends on March 31, 2030.

The County Board of Zoning Appeals is a body of five citizens appointed by the Lancaster County Board of Commissioners for staggered five-year terms. The County Board of Zoning Appeals is charged by state and local law with hearing cases relating to variances to the County’s Zoning Resolution, errors in decisions or determinations of administrative officials, or certain exceptions relating to height, area, density, or parking requirements. For example, an application before the County Board of Zoning Appeals may include a request for a variance to reduce the minimum lot size of Agricultural Zoned land from 20 acres to 10 acres. All determinations are to be made in accordance with the jurisdictional bases and limitations provided by Article 19 of the Lancaster County Zoning Regulations.

All interested applicants must complete the Appointment Application at lancaster.ne.gov/FormCenter/Board-of-Commissioners-12/ Appointment-Application-to-County-Adviso-67. If you have questions about serving on the County Board of Zoning Appeals, please contact George Wesselhoft, City-County Planning Department, at GWesselhoft@lincoln.ne.gov, or (402) 441-6366.

For more information about Lancaster County, please visit the website at lancaster.ne.gov or call (402) 441-7447.

Paris Banh Mi Shares the Heart Behind Vietnamese Cuisine

Khobe Nguyen opened Paris Banh Mi to share more than food with the Lincoln community—to share the heart behind Vietnamese culture.

“I opened Paris Banh Mi because I am deeply passionate about Vietnamese cuisine and proud of the culture it represents,” said Nguyen. “Growing up, food was more than just something to eat — it was how family, tradition, and hard work were passed down.”

Nguyen believes Vietnamese food tells a story of balance, freshness, and care, and wanted to bring that experience to the community in a modern, welcoming way.

Paris Banh Mi allows Nguyen to honor traditional Vietnamese flavors while also introducing them to people who may be trying them for the first time. From banh mi to noodle bowls and pastries, every item reflects the craftsmanship, history, and pride behind Vietnamese culinary culture. It means a great deal to Nguyen when customers connect with both the food and the story behind it.

Opening the restaurant has been both challenging and rewarding, but it has given him the opportunity to share something he truly believes in. Nguyen is proud to represent Vietnamese cuisine, support his team, and contribute to the local food scene through Paris Banh Mi. For menu information, please visit parisbanhmilincoln.com.

(402) 625-6578

www.insuranceonpoint.com

HSA Nuts and Bolts

by Krista Dittman Agent, Individual & Senior Benefits

What is an HSA exactly? A Health Savings Account is a savings account that allows money to be set aside tax-free to pay for qualified medical expenses for yourself and immediate family members.

Who can contribute to an HSA? Anyone enrolled in an especially designated qualified High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) either through the Marketplace or an employer-based plan.

Where can I open an HSA? A bank where you currently do business makes for easy transfers between accounts. There are other options to research online that may offer higher returns or the option to reinvest. Unlike an FSA, the money in an HSA is retained by the account owner and any remaining balance rolls over from year to year.

Why would I want to open an HSA? Dollars you contribute to your HSA are considered pre-tax dollars. This means that the amount contributed reduces taxable income. This deduction is calculated on the tax return for the contribution year. The money in this account also grows tax-free. Spending this money for qualified medical expenses for the account owner, spouse or eligible dependents is also tax-free. These funds may NOT be used to pay for health insurance premiums.

When can’t I contribute to an HSA? Once enrolled in any part of Medicare, whether enrolling in Part A when turning 65, or being awarded Medicare eligibility through a disability determination, HSA contributions must cease. If enrolling in Medicare later than age 65, it is important to remember that the Part A start date will be six months prior to the Part B effective date. In this instance, you would need to discontinue your HSA contribution six months prior to enrolling in Medicare.

How much can I contribute? Every year the IRS determines the HSA contribution limits. For 2026 an individual may contribute up to $4,400; the family maximum is $8,750; for individuals 55 and older, an additional $1,000 “catch-up” amount is allowed. An HSA contribution can be made before the tax filing deadline for that coverage year.

If deciding to enroll in an insurance plan that allows HSA contributions seems confusing, let the licensed insurance agents at On Point Insurance Agency help!

STAR CITY SIX DAWN

Dawn Buell NATS DETASSELING

Dawn Buell is the founder at NATS Detasseling (Not Afraid to Sweat).

Tell us a little about your business. - NATS Detasseling (Not Afraid to Sweat) has two missions: to raise up the next generation of Nebraskans by providing meaningful work in a positive environment and to provide superior detasseling and roguing services for seed corn companies in Nebraska. We’ve led over 10,000 teenagers into cornfields over the past few decades, and we’re passionate about what we do.

How did you get started in the business? - I worked for another detasseling company and got hooked on the experience after just one summer. I love walking rows with teenagers and creating a culture where they can flourish.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?That’s hard to pick! Getting to accompany the Nebraska Department of Economic Development on a trade mission to Germany has to top the list. Also in the running would be earning the Better Business Bureau’s Integrity Award in 2009.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have eight children, all of whom start with the letter “H”, and all of them have walked many miles in the cornfields. It is the reason they were able to get through college debt-free, and several of them have gone on to start their own businesses.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love to go out on the trails around Lincoln–MoPac, Wilderness Park–it doesn’t really matter, as long as I have my trusty Golden Retriever with me!

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - Although I graduated with a high school teaching degree, most people wouldn’t know that I’ve been an entrepreneur since the second grade. At that time, they were building Kahoa elementary school, and I would bike to a gas station, buy pop, and then resell it to the construction workers in little paper cups. I moved on from that to buying a horse with paper route money, learning calligraphy and starting a sole proprietorship to sell art at craft shows, starting a sub-S Corporation for the detasseling business, followed by an LLC for a few rental homes in town.

Who inspires you? - Elisabeth Elliot, whose husband was killed by the Auca Indians in Ecuador back in the 1950s, is a great inspiration to me. I was able to be her transcriptionist for 15 years when she was the speaker for the women’s program, Gateway to Joy.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Do the right thing, even when no one is watching” is a favorite quote of mine. We put it on the back of our crew’s T-shirts one summer.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I love Hope Venture here in town!! They do awesome work around the world, and we have a goal that for every acre we walk in the fields, I donate $1 to a non-profit. We’ve started a feeding center in India that I was able to go and personally see, as well as supporting students in Kenya, Africa, and buying school uniforms for girls in Uganda.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I’m currently reading the Lord of the Rings series outloud to my youngest! Can’t go wrong with J.R.R. Tolkien.

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - I love the Venue. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?

- My cell is (402) 540-0843, my email is dawn.buell@gmail.com, and my website it notafraidtosweat.com

STAR CITY SIX PAUL

Paul Larsen CREPE CAFE, LLC

Paul Larsen is the founder and owner of Crepe Cafe, LLC.

Tell us a little about your business. - I am a unique food trailer experience and catering event center, serving a variety of delicious sweet and savory crepes. My business is called Crepe Café.

How did you get started in the business? - In 2016 while working for Nebraska State Penitentiary, I wanted to change things and challenge myself to own a business offering customers a unique, quality product. I heard about a place called Crepe A La Cart in Breckenridge, CO that had delicious crepes. I took a trip out there and tried them. They were delicious which is when I decided I wanted to start a food truck in Lincoln.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?Marketing a niche, unique product while perfecting the crepe recipe.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?Fostering business relationships and offering customers an appealing menu for everyone.

Tell us a little about your family. - My mother lives in Washington State where she remarried in her 70’s. My dad passed away in 2025 in the state of California, that he loved and where I was born and grew up. My brother is married and lives in Utah. I have a son who lives in South Carolina who has two amazing kids. His daughter is 2 and his son is 1. I love getting to know them as their grandpa. My daughter lives in Chicago and my youngest son lives in Portland, Oregon.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - The day I joined the military in 1988 and served in the Air Force and Army for 25 years.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I traveled all over the world with the military as well as a kid from divorced parents. I worked with the Department of Corrections in Nebraska for 10 years with a variety of jobs from corrections officer to case manager. I also worked for the state of Nebraska with the Youth Rehabilitation Treatment Center.

Who inspires you? - God and my relationship with Him; he encourages me to serve others and be helpful. Other entrepreneurs such as Aron Young with ChefauChef also inspire me.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Treat others the way you would like to be treated” and “you get out of life what you put into it.” If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “I’m Still Standing” by Elton John.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Teleportation so I could travel the world.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - My greatest talent is being helpful and serving others.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I would like to be a meteorologist and perfect the skills I had in the Air Force.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Regina Peterson with Marvilee helps youth in dealing with life and KB who owns Visionary Youth also helps young kids to be inspired and encouraged in life.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Abraham Lincoln or Ronald Reagan. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Phone: (402) 318-1159 or email plarsen191@gmail.com.

Nebraska Problem Gambling Helpline | 1-833-238-6837

National Problem Gambling Helpline | 1-800-522-4700

CHOICES Treatment Center | 402-476-2300

These 24/7 helplines are confidential and will direct you to a certified counselor who can provide immediate help. The Nebraska Gamblers Assistance Program (GAP) pays for the assessment and treatment of problem gambling for Nebraskans struggling with problem gambling and their families.

STAR CITY SIX GINA

Gina Horn THE WATERFORD COMMUNITIES

Gina Horn is the Corporate Office Manager at Waterford Communities

Tell us a little about your business. - The Waterford Communities provides assisted living and memory care across multiple locations, including Waterford at College View, Waterford Williamsburg, and Waterford Wilderness Hills Memory Care. We are committed to providing residents with dignity, respect, and individualized support in a home-like environment. Our dedicated, well-trained team members focus on enhancing quality of life through personalized care, engaging activities, and meaningful relationships that help individuals thrive. Waterford Communities is devoted to creating supportive, enriching experiences that offer both a true sense of home and lasting peace of mind for families. I work in the corporate office, where I support the organization through a wide range of responsibilities, including bookkeeping, accounting, record management, and human resources.

How did you get started in the business? - I started working with senior and assisted living communities about 20 years ago and worked my way into an office setting and began bookkeeping and now work at the Waterford.

For more information go to: www.ChoicesTreatmentCenter.net www.ProblemGambling.Nebraska.gov CHOICES Treatment Center is certified with GAP 4435 O Street, Suite 110 Lincoln, NE 68510 402-476-2300

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Building my leadership skills. I mainly work alone and got really used to it but leading a team is something I constantly work on.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Earning increased responsibility and reliability through years of consistent work.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have been married to my husband, Josh, for 21 years and we have two kids, Cole who is 20 and Lauryn who is 16. We also have two lovable dogs.

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

- Becoming a mother. It changes your whole life. Every choice, intuition and want gets shifted when you welcome new life.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I really love to be outside and going for a run or walk, along with attending sporting events. I also love to spend time with my family.

Who inspires you? - My mom is the strongest person I know. She inspires me daily.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “People will never forget how you made them feel.”

- Maya Angelou.

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

If you could have a super power, what would it be - Mind reading. Which talent would you most like to have? - To be a good cook… or even enjoy cooking. I’d like to be able to cook healthy, delicious foods.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I think being a detective would be fun, being able to investigate crimes and help people.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - American Cancer Society. My dad died of lung cancer when he was 50 years old. The work they do saves lives every day.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - My all time favorite books is The Hunger Games Series.

What is your favorite movie? - Hunger Games or Fault in Our Stars. What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - It’s either MoMo’s Pizzeria & Ristorante or Toast.

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

- You can contact me through my email at ghorn@thewaterford.net or visit our website at thewaterford.net.

STAR CITY SIX JACEY

Jacey Anderson INMOTION AUTO CARE

Jacey Anderson is a Service Advisor at inMOTION Auto Care.

Tell us a little about your business. - We are an independently owned auto repair shop that focuses on the customer, we strive to inform and educate to ensure each guest is confident with the choices they are making to repair and maintain their vehicles.

How did you get started in the business? - I fell into it. I had moved here and was looking for something new, my bosses took a chance on me and I fell in love with the industry.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Being a woman in a primarily male dominated field comes with many hurdles. Some people take a long time to come around to the idea that I can know as much as if not more than a man about the ins and outs of auto repair.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Consistently meeting and exceeding my goals and earning the trust of my fantastic customers. It always fills me to the brim with joy to hear someone say I am their go to person when they need advice on what to do next with their vehicle to keep it safe and reliable.

Tell us a little about your family. - It’s just me and my two cats Mo and George against the world!

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Definitely deciding to move here. I had never lived outside a 30 mile radius of where I was born and just needed something more. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I have two kinds of favorite days off. One is just accomplishing a project at home that I’ve been wanting to do. I just bought my first home and I love a day to tackle a new project to make it even more the home of my dreams. The other is a relaxing day outside whether it’s camping and swimming in a lake nearby or rollerblading down the longest paved trail I can find.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I do special effects makeup as a hobby and a very rare side gig. You can usually catch me at Halloween costume contests, usually in the top 3 contestants

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “We don’t make mistakes, just happy accidents.” - Bob Ross

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Invisibility, I could sneak into so many shows and concerts.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - My knack for arts and crafts.

Which talent would you most like to have? - I would love to do improv. My brain does not come up with witty things that fast and consistently. It’s an amazing talent.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I listened to The Dresden Files series and absolutely blew through it, I couldn’t check the audio books out fast enough.

What is your favorite TV show? - Great British Baking Show, Adventure Time, or Bobs Burgers.

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Chopsticks for Chinese, Kripa for Indian, Blessing for Thai.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - I think it’d just be a great time to have Dinner with Betty White.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Give me a call at (402) 486-9880 or email me at jacey@ inmotionautocare.com.

STAR CITY SIX KYLE

Kyle Smith EDGEWATER CONSTRUCTION

Kyle Smith is the owner of Edgewater Construction

Tell us a little about your business. - Edgewater Construction is a company dedicated to quality craftsmanship and exceptional service. I specialize in everything from small home renovations to large-scale commercial projects.

How did you get started in the business? - I have been in construction for over six years and have worked on hundreds of projects in differing styles. I decided I wanted to begin my own company where I can put my expertise, attention to detail and care into every project.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - My biggest adversary right now is getting my name out there and letting people know what Edgewater Construction is all about.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I would have to say taking the jump and starting Edgewater Construction and having consistently satisfied and happy customers.

Tell us a little about your family. - My parents and sister live in Minnesota but regardless of the distance, I am very close to them and they mean the most to me.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - If I get a day off, which is a BIG if, my favorite thing to do is go golfing.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - Many people don’t know this but I was actually adopted from Chelyabinsk, Russia.

Who inspires you? - The author Jordan B. Peterson inspires me.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re going to get.” – Forest Gump. Life is up and down consistently; you can’t predict it, only try to make the best of it.

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

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Humble and Kind” by Tim McGraw.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Mind reading. Which talent would you most like to have? - Singing.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I think I would enjoy wokring in pediatrics.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - The Hub Lincoln. They provide support and resources for young people growing into adults in our community. I am on the board of directors and am passionate about the work they do.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - Last good book I read was Beyond Order by Jordan B. Peterson.

What is your favorite movie? - Forest Gump for sure!

What is your favorite TV show? - Suits or Letterkenny

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - The Venue, they have the best lobster rolls in Lincoln!

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

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - My phone number is (402) 419-3208, my email is smithcapitalventures@ gmail.com. You can also visit my website at edgewaterconstruct.com.

Charlie Boone

LINCOLN FEDERAL SAVINGS BANK

Charlie Boone is the Chief Lending Officer at Lincoln Federal Savings Bank (Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender).

Tell us a little about your business. - Lincoln Federal Savings Bank has been a local hub for banking services since 1906! Our goal is to make saving, home owning, and growing a business attainable for all.

How did you get started in the business? - When I graduated college, I had three job offers, one in Omaha, one in New York, and one in Sacramento. My girlfriend was in Omaha, so I stayed, took the job, married her and the rest is history! Banking is the only business that I’ve ever been in.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?Alignment. It’s the biggest challenge I face as a senior leader. Once it’s achieved, it has to be maintained so I’m always chasing it. We have to make sure that the team, the organization, and our goals are all aligned, all of the time. I love that here at Lincoln Federal we are aligned, excited, and focused on growth right now. It makes my job really exciting and fulfilling.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Growing a community bank to a point that assets and personnel doubled was one of the turning points of my career and an achievement that I am very proud of.

Tell us a little about your family. - I am married to the same girlfriend that kept me in Omaha all those years ago with four children and two greyhounds. We have a great love for sports, the Creighton Bluejays, and doing things together. When we aren’t attending a sporting event, I’m coaching, or helping to plan the next tournament.

Who inspires you? - My kids. I don’t want to sound cheesy, but it’s true. They have great attitudes, they work hard, and they have success. It’s a great reminder when life feels uphill that maybe a shift in my attitude and a more lighthearted approach might help me reach my goal that much more easily.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Caring. I truly care about the people around me. My family, my coworkers, and everyone that I encounter. I want to see people be successful and happy and I hope that they know that.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I would be a teacher. I have two sisters that are teachers and I can feel the joy that it brings them and see the daily impact that they leave with their students.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Youth athletic organizations. I have been on the board, volunteering for, or helping fundraise for many organizations in the past 25 years –primarily in the Omaha area as my kids attend school there. I believe that sports teach morals, ethics, and instill a mindset of teamwork that is invaluable and should be accessible to all children.

What is your favorite TV show? - Curb Your Enthusiasm – If you haven’t seen it, it’s a great watch!

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - I am currently looking to add to my list of favorites or go-to spots in Lincoln, but so far, I’ve really been enjoying MoMo’s.

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

- Give me a call anytime at (402) 474-1400 or visit me at 8400 Maddox Drive. For more information about Commercial Real Estate Loans, Personal Banking Services, Home Mortgage, or Equity, visit lincolnfed.com.

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UNICO Group Welcomes 5 New Advisors to Growing Team

UNICO Group, a client-focused insurance broker, is proud to announce five professionals joining the sales team. Their benefits division welcomes Miles Hunke, alongside Alexis Markowski and Cade McCallum. On the commercial side, they’re pleased to introduce Charlie Easley and Jake Potthoff. Their arrival will help strengthen the capabilities, expand their reach in specialized markets and support the growing client base. More info at unicogroup.com.

“I’m excited for the future of UNICO with these five joining the team,” said Shane Ideus, President of UNICO. “They bring energy and expertise, but what truly sets them apart is their commitment to building lasting relationships with our clients and network. That’s the foundation of our success, and they’ll bring fresh ideas that will help us serve even better as we grow.”

Learn more about each of their advisors:

Charlie Easley, joins as a Risk Advisor in Omaha, bringing a unique background in basketball and sales. Prior to joining the team, Charlie played professionally in Mallorca, Spain, while also gaining valuable experience in data management. A native of Lincoln, his dedication to being a team player developed on and off the court will be instrumental as he crafts tailored risk management solutions for their commercial clients.

Miles Hunke, Benefits Consultant in Omaha, brings nearly 16 years of benefits analysis to UNICO. His strong background is built on experience helping organizations understand and improve their benefits programs through careful review and insights. Miles is committed to staying ahead of the evolving benefits landscape, ensuring he can provide clients with practical solutions for attracting and retaining top talent.

Alexis Markowski, a former collegiate basketball athlete, joins as a Benefits Advisor in Lincoln. With a recent degree in business management, she brings a strong foundation in building meaningful connections and a commitment to continuous growth. Alexis also demonstrates her dedication to helping others through coaching youth basketball, approaching insurance advising with the same care and focus to help her clients.

Cade McCallum, originally from Grand Island, joins as a Benefits Advisor in Omaha. He brings a fresh perspective having worked in the healthcare technology and medical device industries. A former collegiate golfer for Creighton University, Cade is committed to uncovering the why behind the unique challenges his clients face and delivering tailored insurance strategies that align with both personal and business goals.

Jake Potthoff, joins as a Risk Advisor in Omaha. His versatile background includes over six years of working in insurance, shaping his client approach around partnership and advocacy, ensuring clients feel supported every step of the way. This commitment is also reflective of his active community involvement, where he makes a positive impact both personally and professionally. For more information, visit unicogroup.com.

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HBE LLP Announces Promotion of Four New Partners

HBE LLP, a Nebraska-based public accounting and advisory firm, announces the promotion of Emily Arrigo, CPA; Kaylie Koso, CPA; Derek Meyer, CPA; and Phillip Oman, CPA to Partner, effective January 1, 2026. The promotions reflect each individual’s leadership, technical expertise, and commitment to the firm’s clients, people, and long-term growth. Together, they strengthen HBE’s capabilities across assurance, tax, and specialty advisory services while supporting the firm’s continued expansion across its markets.

“Each of these professionals has demonstrated a strong commitment to client service, leadership development, and the values that define HBE,” said Scott Becker, Managing Partner of HBE LLP. “Their promotion to Partner reflects both their individual contributions and our confidence in their ability to help guide the firm into the future.”

Emily Arrigo, CPA joined HBE in 2018 and provides assurance services to a diverse mix of for-profit, nonprofit, and employee benefit plan clients. She is actively involved in the community as a board member of Clinic with a Heart.

Derek Meyer, CPA joined HBE in 2017 and specializes in corporate, partnership, and individual tax. He leads the firm’s Healthcare Specialty Group, supporting clients with complex tax and advisory needs. Derek currently serves a board member of the Seniors Foundation.

Phillip Oman, CPA joined HBE in 2017 and focuses on corporate, partnership, and individual tax matters, with extensive experience advising clients on complex multi-state and regulatory issues. He leads the firm’s State and Local Tax (SALT) group and specializes in business valuations.

Kaylie Koso, CPA joined HBE in 2021 and specializes in serving clients in the agribusiness industry, partnering closely with producers and agribusiness owners to support their operational and long-term goals.

All four new partners are members of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Nebraska Society of CPAs. HBE LLP continues to invest in leadership development and intentional growth to support its clients, communities, and people for the long term.

About HBE LLP

HBE LLP is a leading provider of professional accounting and consulting services throughout Nebraska and the Midwest. Operating from multiple office locations, the firm offers a complete range of financial management services for businesses, not-for-profit and governmental organizations, niche industries, and individuals. These services include specialized advisory, audit, tax, outsourced accounting and CFO solutions, personal financial planning, and wealth management. For more information, please visit hbecpa.com.

I’ve Got A Name Announces Leadership Transition

as Founder Bob Burton Assumes Role of Executive Director

I’ve Got A Name, a Lincoln-based nonprofit dedicated to ending sex trafficking in Nebraska, announced a leadership transition marking an important moment in the organization’s history. After 10 years as Executive Director, Paul Yates has retired from full-time leadership. Founder Bob Burton will assume the role of Executive Director, while Yates will remain involved with the organization as Executive Director Emeritus, supporting speaking engagements and key communications efforts.

I’ve Got A Name works to confront sex trafficking in Nebraska through Street Outreach, prevention, and community awareness. The organization works with community partners across the state to reduce vulnerability, increase understanding, and support survivors as they pursue safety, healing, and stability.

Yates discovered a calling while working with a nonprofit combating sex trafficking in Nepal, where he spent eight years supporting anti-trafficking efforts. He later brought his expertise to Nebraska, where over the past decade he helped shape I’ve Got A Name’s growth, strengthen community partnerships, and inspire local action against exploitation.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to lead this organization for the past 10 years,” Yates said. “I’m looking forward to seeing Bob continue his vision and what he will accomplish in the years ahead.”

The transition represents a full-circle moment for the organization. Burton founded I’ve Got A Name in 2010 after first learning about the realities of sex trafficking through rescue efforts in Southeast Asia. As his understanding deepened, he realized sex trafficking was not only a distant issue, but one affecting communities close to home. While serving as Senior Associate Athletic Director at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Burton launched I’ve Got A Name to fight sex trafficking locally.

“I’ve Got A Name was founded on hope and the belief that change is possible,” Burton said. “I’m grateful for Paul’s leadership and for the strong foundation he helped build, and I’m committed to continuing this mission alongside our team and partners across Nebraska.”

For more information about I’ve Got A Name, visit ivegotaname.org.

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

At Strictly Business, we recognize local professionals for significant awards, promotions, achievements, new hires, and community involvement. We’re proud to highlight the people and organizations driving Lincoln’s business community forward — from individual accomplishments to company milestones and partnerships.

If you have company news to share, we’d love to feature it in our publication and online. To submit your news or inquire about feature costs, call (402) 466-3330, email editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com, or submit directly at strictly-business.com. All features are also published on our website and optimized for online search, helping your announcement reach readers both in print and digitally.

Thornock Joins Cornhusker Bank Advisory Board

Cornhusker Bank is pleased to announce that Todd A. Thornock, PhD, CPA, CMA, CGMA, associate professor of accounting at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, has joined its Lincoln Advisory Board. Dr. Thornock brings extensive expertise in accounting, analytics and strategic decision-making. His research focuses on performance feedback, compensation and monitoring environments, offering practical insights that will help guide Cornhusker Bank’s impact and strengthen its ability to align organizational goals with customer needs.

Before joining the University of Nebraska–Lincoln faculty in 2017, Dr. Thornock taught at Iowa State University and earned his PhD from the University of Texas at Austin. He began his career with PricewaterhouseCoopers, serving as an audit and assurance associate in Austin, Texas, and San Jose, California, after graduating from Brigham Young University in 2002. At the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Dr. Thornock teaches accounting information systems and analytics at the undergraduate level and managerial accounting at the graduate level.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Thornock to our advisory board,” said Allen Chaffee, chief banking officer at Cornhusker Bank. “His expertise and practical experience will provide valuable perspective as

LINCOLN STARS HOCKEY

AWellBeingCelebratesDr.CaseyBogenrief’s Recertification and Licensure

A Well Being is pleased to announce that Dr. Casey has successfully completed recertification as a certified athletic trainer and renewed her licensure as a physical therapist in the state of Nebraska.

The Board of Certification for Athletic Trainers requires certified athletic trainers to complete 50 continuing education credits and maintain current CPR certification. In addition, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services requires licensed physical therapists to complete 20 continuing education hours and CPR certification to maintain licensure.

Dr. Casey will also continue her long-standing professional memberships with the National Athletic Training Association and the American Physical Therapy Association. She has been a member of the National Athletic Training Association for 16 years and the American Physical Therapy Association for 11 years.

Affiliation with national professional organizations reflects Dr. Casey’s ongoing commitment to professional development, public awareness, advocacy for the athletic training and physical therapy professions, and service to the community.

As a fun local connection, the Board of Certification for Athletic Trainers is headquartered in Omaha.

For more information about A Well Being and its services, visit awellbeingpt.org.

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank Appoints Trent Meyer to Board of Directors

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank (Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender) is pleased to announce the appointment of Trent Meyer to its Board of Directors. Meyer currently serves as Chief Financial Officer at Lincoln Federal, a role he has held since October 2021. In this position, he oversees the Bank’s financial operations and plays a key role in long-term planning and growth initiatives.

Prior to joining Lincoln Federal, Meyer spent more than seven years with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Topeka, where he gained extensive experience in financial management and the banking industry.

Meyer holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance, a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting, and a Master of Business Administration. He is also a graduate of the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado.

As a member of the Board of Directors, Trent brings deep expertise in finance, accounting, strategic planning, business development, and risk management.

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is proud to welcome Meyer to the Board and looks forward to his continued contributions to the Bank’s success.

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

CapitalCigarLoungeWelcomesAbbyRoseas Assistant Bar Manager

Capital Cigar Lounge has welcomed Abby Rose as its new Assistant Bar Manager. Abby brings nearly seven years of experience in the bar industry, with a background rooted in leadership, team development, and elevated cocktail programs.

In her new role, Abby will lead the implementation of new bar initiatives and cocktail recipes designed to enhance Capital Cigar Lounge’s product and service offerings. She will also focus on bartender training, emphasizing best practices, consistency, and the use of high-quality ingredients— supporting the lounge’s continued growth and commitment to guest experience.

“I kicked off my journey in dive bars at the age of 21 and quickly fell in love with the art of bartending, realizing I wanted to take this career path seriously,” said Abby. “My adventure led me to music venues, where I had the incredible opportunity to serve as the bar manager at Bourbon Theatre in Lincoln for two years. This role taught me invaluable skills in managing a team, orchestrating large-scale events, and leading a dynamic group of over 25 bartenders.”

Abby’s approach to bartending evolved significantly during her time at The Wicked Rabbit in Omaha. Known as one of the city’s most coveted speakeasy-style craft cocktail bars, the experience challenged her to rethink everything from ingredient selection to presentation and service, reinforcing how attention to small details can completely transform the guest experience.

“While I can’t reveal all my secrets just yet, I invite you to stop by Capital and let the drinks speak for themselves,” Abby added.

For more information, visit capitalcigar.com or follow Capital Cigar Lounge on Facebook at facebook.com/capitalcigarco.

Ovation Salon Welcomes Barber Jackson Anderson to the Team

Ovation Salon recently welcomed Jackson Anderson to its team of professionals. Jackson began his barbering career over a year and a half ago, inspired by his late grandfather, Mike, who was also a barber. Even in his final days, Jackson remembers his grandfather making house calls for loyal clients, a level of care and connection that continues to motivate Jackson as he builds his own clientele.

Originally from Seward, Nebraska, Jackson trained at the College of Hair Design in downtown Lincoln, where he refined his technical skills and passion for the craft. He specializes in classic fades, shear cuts, business and modern styles, and full barber services including straight-razor shaves, facials, and eyebrow waxing. He is also expanding into women’s hair services, including color, perms, and blow-dry styling.

Ovation Salon offers a great variety of hair services and hair pieces like wigs, toupees and extensions. They also offer waxing for both men and women along with a variety of hair treatments--everything from coloring, relaxers, keratine treatments and corrective colors. All stylists are professionally trained and certified. Ovation Salon is proud to welcome Jackson and looks forward to the talent and energy he brings to the team. For more information, please visit ovation.salon.

BUNDLE & SAVE UNDER OUR ROOF

Husker Rehab Welcomes Jessica Pearson, PTA, to North Clinic Team

Husker Rehab is pleased to welcome Jessica Pearson, PTA, to its North Clinic location. Jessica joins the team alongside Michelle Spicka, DPT, expanding opportunities for Pelvic Floor Therapy and further strengthening the clinic’s commitment to specialized, patient-focused care.

Jessica brings a strong educational background and passion for helping patients improve function and quality of life. Jessica grew up on a farm in Holdrege, NE, but currently resides in Cordova, NE with her boyfriend, Levi and their dog, Penny. She enjoys spending time outside, baking pastries, and watching Creighton and Nebraska sports. She has worked as a certified nursing assistant in skilled nursing facilities for multiple years and loves to listen to everyone’s life story. She earned her BS of Exercise Science from Creighton University in 2023 then went on to receive her AS in Physical Therapist Assistant from Clarkson College in 2025. She is passionate about Pelvic Floor therapy and taking a holistic approach to wellness.

As part of the Husker Rehab North team, Jessica will support patients through individualized treatment plans, hands-on care, and targeted therapy programs designed to restore strength, mobility, and confidence. Her addition reflects Husker Rehab’s continued growth and dedication to meeting the evolving needs of the Lincoln community.

For more information about Husker Rehab and its therapy services, visit huskerrehab.com or contact the North Clinic directly.

ON THEI R GRAND CANYON ECHO DENTAL

CAPITOL EYE CARE & OPENINGS

UnionBank&TrustPromotesCarolineMelson to Commercial Lender – Officer

Melson started at UBT as a teller, eventually becoming a credit analyst. In her new role, she will be responsible for underwriting and structuring commercial loans; managing, servicing, and expanding the bank’s existing loan portfolio; and supporting womenowned businesses through commercial lending.

A Lincoln native, Melson earned a bachelor’s degree in finance banking and risk management from UNL in 2022. Outside of work, she has served on the board of directors for The Friends of Lied and Girls on the Run of Nebraska, and she has been involved with Lincoln Young Professionals Group and RISE Lincoln.

Union Bank & Trust is a privately owned Nebraska-based bank that offers complete banking, lending, investment, and trust services, in addition to serving as program manager for Nebraska’s NEST College Savings Plan. The bank has 35 full-service and loan production offices in Nebraska, Kansas, and Colorado. It is the thirdlargest bank in Nebraska, with bank assets of $8.8 billion and trust assets of $42.7 billion as of June 30, 2025.

For more information, visit ubt.com.

Vivian Clough AAA Insurance Agency WelcomesMelissa“Missy”NunntotheTeam

Vivian Clough AAA Insurance Agency is pleased to welcome Melissa Nunn, known to many as “Missy,” as the newest agent to join the growing Lincoln-based agency.

Missy brings more than 10 years of experience in the insurance industry, along with a strong commitment to helping individuals, families, and businesses feel confident in their coverage decisions. Known for her depth of knowledge and approachable demeanor, she takes pride in guiding clients through the insurance process with patience, clarity, and care.

At Vivian Clough AAA Insurance Agency, relationships are at the center of everything they do. As Nebraska’s first entrepreneurial AAA agency, the firm was built on the belief that insurance should feel personal, empowering, and rooted in trust. Based in Lincoln, the agency serves clients throughout the community with a full range of offerings, including auto, home, life, and umbrella insurance, as well as AAA memberships and travel services—all in one convenient location.

With the addition of Missy Nunn, Vivian Clough AAA Insurance Agency continues to strengthen its commitment to providing thoughtful, client-focused service while growing a team that reflects its values of care, integrity, and community connection.

For more information, visit the Vivian Clough AAA Insurance Agency in Lincoln or contact the office directly to learn more about available services.

For more information, please visit locator.acg.aaa.com/ne/lincoln/ aaa-insurance-vivian-clough-agency.

SCIPWelcomesNewSchoolCoordinator,Nick Schickert

The School Community Intervention & Prevention (SCIP) Program has announced the hiring of Nick Schickert as their new School Coordinator. Nick will serve as the School Coordinator for Regions 3, 4 and rural Region 5.

Nick received his Bachelor or Arts in English language arts and endorsement in secondary education from Doane University. Before joining SCIP, he worked as a middle school speech and drama teacher for Gretna Public Schools, and as a human rights committee liaison for a program approved service agency in Colorado. In his position with SCIP, Nick will work with existing public and private schools who have implemented SCIP, as well as recruit additional schools and agencies. He joins Tessah Fulk, School Coordinator for Regions 1, 2 & 6 and Sarah Bolton, School Coordinator for Lincoln and Lancaster County.

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

SCIP is funded (16% or $50,000) from the Strategic Prevention Framework-Partnerships for Success States grant (5H79SP083671-02) & (55% or $168,837.71) from the Substance Abuse Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Services Block Grant (1B08TIO88119-01 through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, contracted through the NE DHHS, Div. of Behavioral Health. SCIP also receives (3% or $10,000) in state funding and (26% or $82,110) of funding from non-governmental sources, including United Way of Lincoln Lancaster County.

SCIP is a program of Lincoln Medical Education Partnership, 4600 Valley Road, Lincoln. To find out more about SCIP, visit their website at scipnebraska.com or call (402) 327-6843.

Friendship Home Changes Leadership Titles to Better Reflect Impact and Structure

Friendship Home is happy to share an exciting update as it continues to grow and evolve. As part of this growth, they’re promoting two leadership titles to better reflect the roles that support their work and the future

Going forward, the Executive Director, Leah Droge, will hold the title of Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and the Finance Director, Tina Horan, will be known as Chief Operating Officer (COO). These titles more clearly reflect the leadership, collaboration, and responsibility already guiding Friendship Home, while helping external partners and the community better understand how they are structured. While the titles are new, the people and the work remain the same. The leadership team continues to lead with the same dedication, care, and commitment to their mission, the staff, and the communities they serve. There are no changes to the daily operations, just a clearer way to describe the leadership roles supporting their shared goals. These promotions represent a natural step forward as they strengthen their organization and deepen their connections with partners and supporters. Using familiar leadership titles helps them communicate more clearly and supports continued collaboration and growth. They’re grateful to their staff, board, partners, and community for your continued trust and support. They look forward to this next chapter and to continuing their work together. For more information, please visit friendshiphome.org.

Bartling, Smith Are New NE Chamber Staff

The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry’s newest hires are serving Nebraska in new positions: Executive Vice President of Marketing & Strategic Communications and Director of Government Affairs.

Kelly Bartling joined the NE Chamber team in November as EVP of Marketing and Strategic Communications. Prior to joining the NE Chamber, Bartling had a 26-year career at the University of Nebraska, as Vice Chancellor of Enrollment Management and Marketing at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, and as News Director at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her background also includes work at several Nebraska daily newspapers. In Bartling’s NE Chamber role, she will guide datadriven strategies in public/community relations, marketing and content development, multi-media storytelling, and branding to advance the NE Chamber mission to serve and strengthen Nebraska businesses.

Luisa Smith joined the NE Chamber in January 2026 as Director of Government Affairs. Smith had been working on Capitol Hill since 2021, most recently as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator James E. Risch. Her policy expertise includes areas such as energy, transportation, science, and infrastructure. Smith will serve as the dedicated government affairs and policy lead for Tech Nebraska, managing Tech Nebraska and the NE Chamber’s shared technology and innovation portfolio, and assisting with the NE Chamber’s broader agenda and presence before the Legislature. For more information, please visit nechamber.com.

Lincoln Chamber’s Bohlmeyer Named to ACCE’s 40 Under 40 List

The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Katie Bohlmeyer, Business Policy Advocate at the Lincoln Chamber, for inclusion in the 2025 Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives’ (ACCE) “40 Under 40” list.

ACCE’s 40 Under 40 program recognizes the top emerging leaders in the chamber of commerce industry who have demonstrated success in their careers and made significant contributions in the communities they represent.

Katie made a lasting impact through her leadership of the recent vote in 2025 to extend the Lincoln on the Move quarter-cent sales tax to fund road improvements and repairs throughout the community. She was recognized for the ability to gather financial and political support from the private sector and worked closely with local elected officials in advancing this essential public investment, as the measure before voters passed with 68 percent of the vote.

The ACCE 40 Under 40 list is comprised of CEOs and staff professionals from a wide variety of roles and chamber sizes. Their creativity, dedication and commitment to identifying innovative solutions will help shape the future of the chamber profession and connect with communities. Katie was nominated by Bruce Bohrer, Executive VP and General Counsel at the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and has been in her current role as business policy advocate since May 2023. Congratulations Katie! For more information, please visit lcoc.com.

West Gate Bank® Welcomes Eric Bertrand and Corey Rhone

The West Gate Bank® Board of Directors is pleased to welcome Eric Bertrand and Corey Rhone as a Mortgage Loan Officers. As Mortgage Loan Officers, they will work directly with clients to recommend the best mortgage products for their needs, build customized solutions for brokers and clients purchasing or refinancing a home, and assist clients with the mortgage origination process from start to finish.

Bertrand is a native of San Diego, California and a graduate of University of Nebraska—Lincoln, with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and a master’s degree in Family Financial Planning. He brings more than 5 years of banking experience to his role at West Gate Bank.

Eric Bertrand (NMLS# 2461671) is located at West Gate Bank Center at 6003 Old Cheney Road and can be reached at (402) 853-7220 or via email at ebertrand@westgate.bank.

Originally from Cozad, Nebraska, Rhone is a graduate of University of Nebraska—Lincoln. He brings 25 years of mortgage lending experience to his role at West Gate Bank.

Corey Rhone (NMLS# 1031996) is located at West Gate Bank Center at 6003 Old Cheney Road and can be reached at (402) 853-7222 or via email at crhone@westgate.bank.

About West Gate Bank

West Gate Bank is a family-owned community bank with 10 locations in Lincoln and Omaha. Offering consumer, business and mortgage lending services, at West Gate Bank, their interest is you! Visit westgate.bank for more information. NMLS# 292134.

Legacy Retirement Communities Welcomes KallinNiemeyerasRetirementLivingAdvisor

at Legacy Terrace

Legacy Retirement Communities (LRC) is excited to announce the hiring of Kallin Niemeyer as Retirement Living Advisor at Legacy Terrace.

Niemeyer is a proud graduate of Waverly High School and Nebraska Wesleyan University. She discovered her passion for supporting older adults early in her career and has dedicated herself to helping seniors and their families navigate change and evolving care needs. Niemeyer brings a strong background in long-term care, shortterm rehabilitation, memory care, hospice, and senior living.

“I’m passionate about helping people feel supported and cared for,” Niemeyer said. “It’s an honor to walk alongside seniors and their families as they navigate change.”

Niemeyer is thrilled to join the Legacy Terrace family and looks forward to building strong relationships with residents and their families.

About Legacy Retirement Communities

Legacy Retirement Communities is a family-owned and operated organization that has proudly served seniors and their families for more than 30 years. LRC continues to provide the Lincoln community with trusted, award-winning senior living, exceptional care, and meaningful opportunities to live an enriched life. To learn more, visit LegacyRetirement.com or contact Legacy Terrace at (402) 464-5700.

Road Ready Celebrates 20-Year Anniversary of General Manager Zach Kapinus

Road Ready proudly recognizes a major milestone: the 20-year anniversary of Zach Kapinus, General Manager and longtime educator whose dedication has profoundly shaped the organization and the Lincoln community.

For two decades, Kapinus has been a steady and trusted steward of Road Ready’s mission to build safe, confident, and courteous drivers. Known for his kindness, thoughtfulness, and unwavering professionalism, Zach embodies the values that define the organization. He is unique in his hands-on commitment, teaching both classroom instruction and behind-thewheel training—ensuring students receive not only technical driving skills, but also the judgment, responsibility, and respect required to be safe drivers for life.

Zach’s impact on the Lincoln community is exceptional. Thousands of students and families have benefited directly from his calm demeanor, patience, and deep care for young drivers. His influence extends far beyond Road Ready’s classrooms and vehicles, contributing meaningfully to safer roads and a stronger driving culture throughout the city.

Road Ready is deeply grateful for Zach Kapinus’s 20 years of leadership, service, and commitment, and proudly celebrates the lasting legacy he continues to build every day. For more information, please visit roadready.biz.

The powerful UBT Business platform, combined with UBT’s treasury management services, helps you move money efficiently, improve cash flow, and even fight fraud — meaning you save time and make the most of your money. You deserve powerful business tools — and people like Morgan whose primary goal is helping you reach yours.

Apace Moves

to New Day Center in Auburn, NE

Apace is proud to announce the opening of its new Day Center in Auburn, Nebraska, located at 1109 R Street. This move marks an exciting new chapter as they transition from their former location, which had become outdated and required significant, costly upgrades to continue meeting the needs of the individuals they support. The new space is modern, bright, and welcoming, designed with accessibility, comfort, and inclusion in mind. The updated environment allows for improved programming and functionality for everyone who walks through the doors.

An added benefit of the new location is their partnership with Educational Service Unit 4 (ESU 4), creating opportunities for collaboration, shared resources, and community connection. Together, they are building a space that supports growth, learning, and meaningful participation. Apace is excited to continue celebrating everyday moments in a facility that truly reflects their mission and commitment to the Auburn community. For more information, please visit goapace.com.

Lincoln Community Foundation Recognized as Family-Friendly Workplace

Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF) has been certified as a Family-Friendly Workplace through a new program led by Lincoln Littles and the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development (LPED). The certification recognizes employers that demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting working families with young children, implement family-friendly workplace practices for their employees, and help make Lincoln a great place to live, work and play by prioritizing family well-being and early childhood support.

“Working parents are often faced with immense challenges,” said Tracy Edgerton, president of Lincoln Community Foundation. “This certification reflects our ongoing commitment as an employer to building a workplace culture that enables our team to thrive both inside and outside the office.”

The certification program highlights policies and practices that support working parents, including child care assistance, flexible scheduling and paid or unpaid leave. Employers that meet at least seven of 10 qualifying criteria earn the Family-Friendly Workplace Certification.

“Family-friendly policies are not just good for employees; they strengthen the whole organization,” said Allison Hatch, director of talent development at LPED. “Companies that adopt these approaches often experience lower absenteeism, reduced healthcare costs and a healthier, more resilient workplace culture.” Additional organizations that earned certification include Ameritas, the City of Lincoln, Don’t Panic Labs, First National Bank of Omaha, Lincoln Children’s Zoo, Lincoln Electric System, Primrose’s schools at Hudl and Wilderness Hills, Schemmer, TMCO and the University of NebraskaLincoln. “Lincoln Community Foundation has been a longtime champion for innovative child care solutions,” said Anne Brandt, executive director of Lincoln Littles. “While supporting the broader community, they also consider their employees in a holistic sense. We’re grateful for their leadership and commitment to improving access to both employment and child care.”

Future applications will be reviewed quarterly by the Lincoln Littles Board of Advisors Engagement Committee. To learn more or apply, visit selectlincoln.org/lincoln-family-friendly-workplace-certification.

Bright Lights Releases Camp Schedule

Bright Lights Summer 2026 camp schedule is now available at BrightLights.org! Featuring a variety of engaging half-day and full-day camp topics for K-8th grade students, the camps will take place over five weeks: June 1-5, June 8-12, June 15-19, June 22-26 and July 6-10.

With topics spanning art, science, robotics, literature, engineering, sports, cooking and more, there’s a camp to pique the interest of almost every student. Whether it’s exploring creativity, delving into STEAM fields or honing culinary skills, there’s sure to be a camp topic that will allow your student to learn and create, master new skills and build new relationships.

Registration for Summer 2026 camps beings Saturday, Feb. 28, at 8 a.m. at BrightLights.org.

And this summer marks a milestone for Bright Lights: It’s their 40th summer of offering exceptional, hands-on learning experiences to students to complement school-year learning. Roper Elementary serves as the primary camp location, with other community sites in Lincoln also hosting camps. Additionally, select locations offer Before Care and Lunch Care services. Further details about these services, the scholarship program and opportunities for older students to volunteer as Camp Assistants are available on BrightLights.org.

Vision Maker Media Celebrates 50 Years of Educating Audiences

Vision Maker Media (VMM) is hosting a year-long film festival in 2026 to celebrate 50 years of being the premier source of media by and about Native Americans. The theme, “Everything is Connected,” represents the interwoven relationships between land, sky, environment and person as a co-existing balanced whole.

February’s installment takes place on Feb. 9 at The Ross Theater, featuring “Oyate Woyaka,” which tells the story of Lakota language history, loss and revitalization. Following the film, Kevin Abourezk will moderate a panel discussion with guest Duane Hollow Horn Bear examining language as the basis of culture. The film and panel discussion will also be available online in March on VMM’s website.

For free tickets, visit theross.org. For more information, visit visionmakermedia.org.

VMM has partnered with Healing Ribbons, an Omaha non-profit organization, to screen selected films from Vision Maker Media’s archives. Films will be shown every other month, starting on February 18th at 5017 Leavenworth St # 101 in Omaha.

For information about Healing Ribbons, visit healingribbons.org.

February episodes for VMM’s iNative Shorts for Kids YouTube channel will center on the theme “Taking Independent Action,” reflecting the idea that people are the agents of change in history. February’s episodes highlight the role Indigenous people have played, and continue to play, as actors and decision-makers in their own histories.

Explore the series at youtube.com/@iNativeShortsforKids.

Make a New Year’s Resolution to Volunteer in 2026; Give the Gift of Time with the Red Cross

The American Red Cross asks Nebraskans to consider giving the gift of time in 2026 by resolving to help people in need as a volunteer.

The Red Cross offers a variety of volunteer opportunities to match one’s interests, skills and availability — from supporting a family after a home fire, assisting a member of the military during an emergency, or helping ensure blood is available for patients who need it.

High-priority volunteer roles include disaster response and feeding support, military and veteran assistance, blood donor engagement, and lifesaving blood transportation.

Join the Red Cross in providing relief and hope when it matters most. Visit redcross.org/volunteer and get started today.

TeamMates Celebrated National Mentoring Month in January

January was National Mentoring Month, and while the month may have passed, the need for mentors continues. TeamMates Mentoring of Lincoln is still looking for local businesses that would like to host recruitment presentations for their staff.

While Lincoln TeamMates will have supported over 1,400 matches over the 2025-26 school year, they still have over 500 students awaiting a mentor. TeamMates provides students in grades 3-12 with a one-to-one adult mentor who provides support and encouragement.

“Our partnerships with businesses are fundamental to our success as an organization. We have some great partners, but would love to add more this year,” says Jim Bennett, Director for TeamMates of Lincoln. “Businesses benefit from volunteering by uplifting the community, and by doing so, they can demonstrate the mission and values of their company.”

There are tremendous benefits to a company’s workforce and productivity as well. TeamMates surveys participants annually, and results continuously reveal that after their mentoring visit, mentors return to work more engaged, hopeful and in a better mood.

To learn more information or to schedule a visit to your workplace, please visit LincolnTeamMates.org or call (402) 436-1990.

Junior Achievement Bowl-A-Thon Brings Community Together to Support Local Students

Junior Achievement is inviting the community to lace up their bowling shoes and roll for a cause at the upcoming JA Bowl-A-Thon, on Feb. 27 and 28 at 48 Bowl, a fun-filled fundraising event benefiting local students.

The JA Bowl-A-Thon brings together businesses, families, friends, and teams for a high-energy bowling experience while supporting Junior Achievement programs that prepare young people for success in work and life. Funds raised help deliver hands-on financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurship education to students across the region.

Participants form teams, enjoy a lively atmosphere of friendly competition, music, and community spirit. The event is open to all skill levels—no bowling experience required.

“The JA Bowl-A-Thon is more than a fundraiser,” said Kennedie Sutton, JA Events Coordinator. “It’s an opportunity for our community to come together, have fun, and make a meaningful impact on the future of our students.”

The JA Bowl-A-Thon will take place on Feb. 27 and 28 at 48 Bowl. Teams and sponsors are encouraged to register early.

To learn more or to sign up a team, visit secure.qgiv.com/event/ makdz9.

FreshStartHelpsWomenMoveForwardwith Purpose

February invites us to think about love in many forms, not just romance, but compassion, commitment, and the courage to begin again. At Fresh Start, love looks like opportunity. It looks like safe housing, steady support, and the belief that every woman deserves the chance to rebuild her life with dignity.

Fresh Start was created with a clear vision: to assist women in overcoming homelessness and moving toward lasting self-sufficiency. Their program is more than a shelter. It is a goals-based housing program rooted in client-focused practices that recognize each woman’s strengths, challenges, and aspirations. They understand that homelessness is complex, and so are the solutions.

Through individualized plans, residents work closely with staff to overcome barriers such as employment gaps, financial instability, and limited access to resources. Women set personal goals, build practical skills, and take meaningful steps forward at a pace that supports long-term success. Accountability is balanced with encouragement, creating an environment where growth is possible.

Love, at Fresh Start, is shown through consistency and respect. It is present in every conversation, every milestone achieved, and every door opened to new possibilities. As we all celebrate February, let’s celebrate fresh starts, because when women are supported with care and purpose, transformation is not only possible, it is powerful. For more information, contact the Development Department at (402) 475-7777.

NONPROFIT NEWS

Voices of Hope Reflects on 2025 with 50th Anniversary

This year, Voices of Hope marked its 50th anniversary by centering the stories that have always defined their mission—survivor voices, expressed through art. To commemorate the milestone, they curated an exhibit featuring work by twelve artists and participants from three support groups, creating a powerful visual narrative that honored grief, resilience, and the courage required for healing.

Over the past year, Voices of Hope served 2,878 survivors, developed 3,564 personalized safety plans, provided support to 255 survivors in emergency rooms, received 752 referrals from law enforcement, and facilitated 1,158 warm handoffs to additional community resources.

They are deeply grateful to their supporters, partners, and donors whose commitment makes this work possible. As they look ahead to the next 50 years, they invite the community to continue standing with survivors and supporting Voices of Hope in creating pathways to safety, healing, and hope.

Photos and videos from the anniversary event can be viewed at voicesofhopelincoln.org/a-taste-of-hope/page.html. For more information, contact Yaquelin, Resource Development Coordinator at yaquelin@voicesofhopelincoln.org.

Registration Open for Multiple Nebraska Sports Council Events in 2026

Registration is now open for several signature Nebraska Sports Council events, offering opportunities for athletes, families, and communities across the state to get active in 2026.

Participants can now register for the Cornhusker State Games, Nebraska DiamondFest, the Pumpkin Run, and 402 Bash, a new men’s slow-pitch softball tournament being held at the Sandhills Global Youth Complex in Lincoln. Each event provides a variety of competition and participation options designed for all ages and ability levels.

Athletes planning to compete in the Cornhusker State Games or Nebraska DiamondFest are encouraged to register early, as price increases for both events will take effect on Feb. 18. Early registration guarantees the lowest available entry fees and helps organizers plan for another successful year of competition.

Registration also remains open for the Lincoln Corporate Games, Omaha Corporate Games, and Nebraska Showdown, which encourage teamwork, wellness, and friendly competition among companies and organizations throughout their respective communities. In addition, the Nebraska Sports Council continues to offer the WellPower Movement, a free statewide program that is part of the America 250 initiative. Participants are challenged to log 250 miles by July 4, celebrating movement, health, and the nation’s upcoming semi-quincentennial. Individuals can track miles through walking, running, biking, swimming, or other activities at their own pace.

For event details and registration information, visit NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.

The Foundry Community Supports Ignite Lincoln to Award $4,500 to Local Nonprofits

The Foundry Community and Firespring Foundation are excited to support this year’s Ignite Lincoln on Feb. 17. Ignite Lincoln strives to amplify the voices and missions of local nonprofits, placing them at the heart of its programming.

This year’s Ignite Lincoln is partnering with the E.N. Thompson Forum on World Issues.

Since 1988, the Forum has brought diverse perspectives on global and public policy issues to Nebraska, sparking dialogue and promoting understanding—goals closely aligned with Ignite Lincoln’s mission.

This year, Ignite 17 shares the E.N. Thompson Forum’s theme of “Belonging: Finding Connection in a Lonely World,” which will explore the growing public health crisis of loneliness and isolation, and the vital role of human connection in improving individual and community well-being.

Ignite will be awarding $4,500 to nonprofits here in Lincoln. You won’t want to miss this night of community connection and impact. Buy your tickets today at ignitelincoln.org!

For more information on The Foundry, please visit the foundry.co.

Make Believe Midnight Draws Record Crowd at Lincoln Children’s Museum

Make Believe Midnight returned to the Lincoln Children’s Museum on Dec. 31 and welcomed a record-breaking 1,200 visitors, making it one of the busiest and most memorable days of the year for the Museum.

Families arrived throughout the morning to celebrate the New Year in a way designed especially for kids. The Museum was filled with activity, from bubble showers and bubble stomps to hands-on experiences and playful surprises spread across all three levels. Every corner offered something to explore, keeping children engaged and moving from open to close.

As the day unfolded, excitement built toward two key moments. At 11 a.m., magician Evan Card entertained the crowd with a high-energy show that brought laughter and wide-eyed reactions from children and adults alike. At noon, the celebration reached its peak with the Make Believe Midnight balloon drop, as balloons poured down from the upper level and filled the Museum with color and cheers.

The event wrapped up shortly after the balloon drop, sending families home with tired smiles, shared memories, and a joyful start to the New Year… without staying up late.

Make Believe Midnight continues to be a beloved tradition, offering families a meaningful way to celebrate together and begin the year with play, connection, and fun.

For more information about upcoming events, visit lincolnchildrensmuseum.org/events.

Mainelli Wagner & Associates, Inc. Donates 2,550 Pounds of Food to Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach

Local engineering firm Mainelli Wagner & Associates, Inc. recently donated 2,550 pounds of food to Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach following its annual company-wide food drive.

“Mainelli Wagner is a long-time supporter and valued partner of Matt Talbot,” said Alynn Sampson, executive director of Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach. “This year’s food drive, fueled by teamwork and friendly competition, yielded an incredible amount of food and will make a meaningful difference for the families and individuals who visit our pantry this winter.”

Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach serves hot, nutritious meals daily from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. The Fresh Choice Pantry is open four days a week, with emergency food boxes available Monday through Friday. Last year, Matt Talbot experienced an increase in guests seeking meals and pantry support. Businesses and organizations can support Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach by:

• Hosting a food drive for shelf-stable items such as canned meats, canned fruits, cereal, granola bars, and other ready-toeat foods, or

• Organizing a winter drive for blankets, hand warmers, size L–XXL coats, waterproof gloves, and hats.

To learn more, contact Lori Wellman at lori.wellman@mtko.org or (402) 817-0621, or visit mtko.org.

DisruptingTraffick’sResourceCenterSupports Prevention Through Access

Disrupting Traffick’s resource center is open and serving clients in its new location at 1625 N Street. Their dedication to preventing sexual exploitation through community education, outreach, and practical support is paired with a brick and mortar location that serves clients with tangible resources. Disrupting Traffick operates from a simple but powerful belief: traffickers exploit unmet needs, and when those needs are met, prevention begins.

The resource center offers no strings attached support through supplies such as food, clothing, and hygiene items as well as offers a private trauma- informed space to meet with a Client Advocate. Along with their new location, an addition was made to their resource center staff in November. Nichole Palmer joins the team as an Executive Assistant bringing over 25 years of nonprofit experience to the grassroots organization. Leveraging existing resources through networking with organizations in Lincoln is a passion that Nichole sees as a necessity to offering clients a multitude of services.

The team at Disrupting Traffick recognizes the compassion and generosity community members bring to Lincoln organizations through volunteering as well as in-kind and monetary donations allowing these resources to be available to meet community members where they are at on their individualized journey. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer in the Disrupting Traffick resource center, please contact Nichole at nichole@disruptingtraffick.org.

Hearts United for Animals Offers “Buddy Program” to Support Shelter Pets

Many kind-hearted animal lovers want to help homeless pets but are unable to adopt due to life circumstances. Hearts United for Animals (HUA) is proud to offer a meaningful way for these supporters to make a difference through its Buddy Program.

The HUA Buddy Program allows individuals to provide direct support to a specific cat or dog who has touched their heart. For a minimum monthly donation of just $10, buddies can help care for their chosen animal while they wait for a loving forever home. This support helps offset daily care needs such as food, shelter, and enrichment.

As part of the program, each buddy may write a personal message that is proudly displayed on the animal’s webpage, offering encouragement and showing potential adopters just how loved that pet already is. When the animal is adopted, buddies are notified and thanked for their generosity and compassion during the animal’s stay at HUA.

At that point, participants may choose to support another animal or discontinue their monthly donation. Due to the program’s popularity, HUA has expanded the Buddy Program to allow multiple buddies for a single animal, because one can never have too many friends.

The Buddy Program is a simple yet powerful way to change lives, offering hope and connection for both animals and the people who care about them.

For more information about becoming a Buddy, visit hua.org, and select Sponsor to learn more. Follow Hearts United for Animals on social media, for daily updates of their no-kill animal shelter.

Angels Among Us Announces Birds & Beer Event in Lincoln

Eat. Drink. Repeat. That’s been the motto for Birds & Beer, a fundraising event for Angels Among Us over the past 6 years. AAU is excited to announce the expansion of Birds & Beer into Lincoln for the first time on Thursday, March 5 at the new Cerris Systems Warehouse!

This signature event combines friends, food, drinks and fun in the spirit of supporting the pediatric cancer families of Nebraska. AAU partners with 12 local restaurants to serve creative chicken concoctions in hopes of winning the ‘Best Bite’ trophy. The agency also partners with the Nebraska Craft Brewers Guild to invite 12 Nebraska-based breweries to compete for ‘Best Brew’.

Tickets for Birds & Beer are $45 for all you can drink local craft beer, all you can eat chicken bites, a custom event beer glass and a credit for a Safe Ride Home thanks to sponsor Hauptman O’Brien. All proceeds from the event support Angels Among Us and their financial assistance program for pediatric cancer families. Secure your tickets now at myangelsamongus.org.

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. Since 2006, over 800 families have been supported 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.

People’sCityMission:OnePerson.OneMeal.

This month, People’s City Mission is highlighting its “Buy One Meal” initiative. One Person. One Meal. This is a simple yet powerful reminder that just $2.77 can provide a warm meal to someone facing homelessness.Everyone deserves a nice warm meal and behind every meal served is a person in need of hope, dignity, and care. Thanks to support from the community, last year they were able to serve 190,006 meals and 18,581 sack lunches here at People’s City Mission. With the rate of homelessness increasing, the need for hot meals will increase in 2026. That’s why they are inviting the Lincoln community to commit to feeding at least one person each month, knowing that when many people give a little, it changes a lot!

Together, something as small as $2.77 can help ensure that no man, woman or child in our city goes hungry. To commit to giving $2.77 on a regular basis, please visit this link buyonemeal.org

To learn more visit People’s City Mission on Facebook at facebook. com/PCMLincoln and Instagram @pcmlincoln.

3WaysNebraskansCanTakeChargeof Their Health This Heart Month, American Heart Association

American Heart Association’s Nation of Lifesavers initiative reminds us: “You are the first responder until help arrives.” More than 350,000 out of hospital cardiac arrests occur in the U.S. each year. This February, the American Heart Association is urging Nebraskans to step in as first responders until professional help arrives.

Nine out of 10 people who experience cardiac arrest outside a hospital do not survive, often because they don’t receive CPR. This Heart Month, Nebraskans can take charge of their health by learning CPR through a class or a 90-second Hands-Only CPR video at heart.org/nation, creating a cardiac emergency response plan using free tools at heart.org/cerp.

Cardiac arrest can happen anywhere—from a Husker game to the grocery store. Immediate CPR can double or triple survival. The Nation of Lifesavers initiative aims to ensure anyone, anywhere is ready to act. To learn more or get involved, visit heart.org/nation.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln is Looking For More Couples to Mentor Together.

Big Couples offer a unique mentoring experience by modeling healthy relationships, teamwork, and communication while providing consistent support to a child. Couples spend time with their Little doing simple, everyday activities, such as sharing meals, attending community events, or talking about school and life goals. This mentoring option is ideal for couples (married or together for 3+ years) who want to give back together in a way that fits naturally into their shared routine.

Big Couples meet with their Little a few times each month and receive training, match support, and ongoing guidance from BBBS staff. With many local youth currently waiting for a mentor, BBBS invites couples to learn more about becoming a Big Couple. To get involved or learn more today, please visit bbbsmidlands.org/be-a-mentor/be-a-mentorlincoln/big-couples.html.

Aging Ally Begins Serving Individuals and Families Across Nebraska

Aging Ally, a Nebraska-based nonprofit organization, is now officially accepting new clients statewide as of Jan. 1, 2026. The organization provides guidance and advocacy for individuals and families navigating aging-related decisions and care needs.

Founded on the belief that people deserve to feel supported and seen during vulnerable moments, Aging Ally offers advocacy rooted in compassion, faith and dignity. The organization works alongside individuals, families and caregivers to help them navigate complex systems, understand care options and make informed decisions with clarity and confidence. Aging Ally does not replace medical providers or care teams. Instead, it serves as a supportive partner, helping families organize information, prepare questions for appointments and follow through on next steps. This support and guidance helps the entire care system work more efficiently.

Aging Ally is proud to serve communities across Nebraska, partnering with families, clinics, care teams, churches, and community organizations to strengthen support for older adults and caregivers statewide.

Aging Ally is currently welcoming new clients throughout Nebraska. More information about services and how to begin working with Aging Ally is available at agingally.org. For additional information, contact info@agingally.org or call (531) 893-1546.

Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday with Keep Nebraska Beautiful

On July 4, 2026, the US will be celebrating 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This semiquincentennial is a historic moment for the nation and Keep Nebraska Beautiful (KNB) hopes to celebrate with an equally historical cleanup to bring all Americans together.

In honor of America’s 250th birthday, they’re asking Americans to make a new declaration – to declare their support for the Greatest American Cleanup. The Keep America Beautiful “Greatest American Cleanup” is the nation’s largest community improvement project taking place annually in thousands of communities nationwide. Their goal is to remove 25 billion pieces of litter from parks, waterways and public spaces by July 4. It’s ambitious but achievable if everyone comes together.

While picking up litter will be an important part of the Greatest American Cleanup, other activities include planting trees and flowers, cleaning nature trails and recreation areas, supporting local beautification and recycling efforts, and much more.

Make your declaration of support for a beautiful America at kab. org/greatest. For comprehensive details, to register a cleanup, to partner with KNB, or to access promotional materials, please visit knb.org or call (402) 486-4562 and be a part of the greatest beautification effort in American history!

Valentine’s Stargazing at Branched Oak Observatory

Looking for a Valentine’s experience that’s truly out of this world? Skip the crowded restaurants and enjoy an unforgettable evening under the stars at the Branched Oak Observatory on Saturday, Feb. 14, from 7 to 11 p.m.

The evening begins with a relaxed and romantic indoor experience featuring wine provided by James Arthur Vineyards, a beautifully curated charcuterie board and live harp music by special guest Ariana Musgrave, creating an intimate ambiance unlike any other Valentine’s event in the area.

After 9 p.m., guests will step outside for a guided tour of the night sky led by Branched Oak Observatory’s experienced team. Through powerful telescopes, attendees will view Orion (The Hunter), the Orion Nebula, Sirius and Aldebaran and Jupiter shining brightly overhead. Whether guests are longtime astronomy enthusiasts or simply looking for a unique date-night experience, this event offers something memorable for everyone — no astrophysics degree required.

Tickets are $35 per person, and space is limited. Advance reservations are strongly encouraged.

For tickets and more information, visit jamesarthurvineyards.com. Wine. Music. Stars. Romance.

Make this Valentine’s Day truly stellar at Branched Oak Observatory. Visit their website at theboo.org.

YMCA Opens Preschool, Before and After School Program Registration

Open registration for the 20262027 school begins on Feb. 17. For youth aged three to five, Preschool is offered at all four Lincoln YMCA locations and includes swim lessons and gym class as part of its licensed program.

“At the Y, kids have an opportunity to be creative, explore their environment, and develop problem solving skills. Our staff serve as positive role models and provides care that is supportive and nurturing,” shared Makenzie Waller, Youth, Teen, and Family Director of the Fallbrook YMCA.

Before and After School Programs at the YMCA support children in reaching their full potential by providing academic support and hands-on enrichment experiences in a safe, structured environment. Through activities like homework assistance, arts and crafts, literacy, board games, and outdoor play, the Y supports experiential learning while developing valuable life skills. Partnering elementary schools include Ada Robinson, Campbell, Elliott, Kahoa, Kooser, Pershing, Pyrtle, Wysong, and Zeman. Partnering middle schools include Lefler, Lux, Mickle, Moore, Pound, Schoo, and Scott.

Registration is also open for YMCA Summer Day Camp, with the first session beginning May 26.

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 enrollment information and to register for all YMCA child care programing, please visit YMCALincoln.org or contact your local YMCA branch.

CBMC Lincoln: Faith. Work. Relationships. What Really Matters.

What if success wasn’t just about growth, titles, or wins—but about purpose and people?

Join them for the Lincoln CBMC Business Connection Luncheon on Thursday, Feb. 26, as you hear from Randall Jantzen, real estate investor and Director of Investor Relations at Simplestate. Randall will share how his faith has shaped his leadership journey—and how relationships, integrity, and purpose have guided his decisions along the way.

From growing up on a small Nebraska dairy farm to competing in college athletics at UNO, building businesses and leading teams, Randall’s story is real, relatable, and grounded in values that matter—both at work and at home.

Whether you’re early in your career, building momentum, or figuring out what’s next, this luncheon is a chance to step back, get perspective, and meet and connect with others who are doing the same.

The luncheon is open to all. Tickets are available online at lincoln. cbmc.com/events. CBMC is committed to helping men live out their faith in the workplace while growing personally, professionally and spiritually. As part of a global movement, Lincoln CBMC is part of CBMC, present in 330 cities in the U.S. and over 90 countries. To learn more, visit lincoln.cbmc.com, follow them on Facebook or LinkedIn, or call (402) 540-1093.

Expanding Space, Expanding Impact at The Foundry

Are you looking for an engaging and mission-driven space in Lincoln? Check out The Foundry.

From the beginning, The Foundry has believed that the best spaces are built with the people who use them in mind. That belief continues to guide its new space expansion. With additional space on the horizon, they’re eager to welcome new members looking for a professional home where their work can thrive alongside others who share their values.

What You Can Expect

The expanded space will be thoughtfully designed by Schemmer Architects and renovated this year, with occupancy anticipated by January 1, 2027. The new area will include:

• Five private offices, each ranging from 140 to 190 square feet

• A prime downtown location, just one block from the University and six blocks from the Capitol, with a parking garage conveniently located next door

• 24/7 building access to support flexible schedules and evolving work needs

• Shared building amenities, including updated kitchens, meeting rooms, and a state-of-the-art copier

• Competitive pricing, aligned with The Foundry’s commitment to accessibility for mission-driven organizations

If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about upcoming available spaces or becoming part of the community, please reach out at hello@thefoundry.co.

TheArcof NebraskatoHostAnnualSenatorial Dinner Celebrating Advocacy and Inclusion

The Sowers Club of Lincoln Honors Sower of the Year and Announces 2026 Plans

The Arc of Nebraska will host its Annual Senatorial Dinner on Tuesday, March 3, from 4 to 8:30 p.m. at Embassy Suite Downtown Lincoln. The formal banquet brings together self-advocates, Nebraska senators, disability service providers, families, and community members for an evening dedicated to leadership, advocacy, and impact. The event highlights the voices of individuals living with intellectual and developmental disabilities while recognizing outstanding community leaders through the Advocate of the Year awards. Attendees will share in fellowship, celebrate progress in disability rights, and engage in conversations that encourage a more inclusive future for all Nebraskans.

For more than 70 years, The Arc of Nebraska has served as a statewide nonprofit organization advocating for the rights and full participation of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The organization connects families and self-advocates with resources, educational training, and community programming while empowering individuals to speak up for themselves year-round. Looking ahead to 2026, The Arc of Nebraska aims to expand civic engagement through accessible voting education and increase employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities across the state.

Tickets for the Annual Senatorial Dinner are $100 for nonmembers and $75 for Arc members. Each ticket includes dinner and one drink ticket. Event registrations support The Arc of Nebraska’s ongoing advocacy, education, and community outreach. For information, visit MaKayla Bartels at (402) 475-4407. For more information or to register, visit arc-nebraska.org/senatorial_dinner.

Lincoln Company Supports Nebraska Diaper Bank with Diaper Drive

Lincoln-based manufacturing company

TMCO recently hosted a diaper drive choosing Nebraska Diaper Bank (NDB) as one of its beneficiaries. The drive collected almost 5,000 diapers for NDB, helping provide a monthly supply for 80 babies in Lincoln.

“Once we understood how limited diaper resources are for families in our community, we knew we wanted to do something to make an impact for local families,” said Maddie Gates, Director of Education and Community Impact. “We love the work the diaper bank is doing and look forward to continuing a partnership that makes a difference!”

Clean diapers are essential to a baby’s health, yet 1 in 3 Nebraska families struggles to afford enough. NDB distributes more than 36,000 diapers each month to approximately 600 children in Lincoln alone, connecting families to diapers alongside other essential supports.

“Diaper drives like this show the impact businesses can have when they invest in their community,” said Anna Lehotyak, Development Director at Nebraska Diaper Bank. “Support from local companies helps ease stress for parents and ensures babies have what they need to stay clean, healthy, and dry.”

Community support plays a critical role in helping NDB meet this ongoing need. Each diaper collected helps ease financial strain for families while supporting healthier outcomes for children and caregivers alike.

Want to make a difference? NDB serves 600 babies each month in Lincoln, and volunteers are crucial to making this work possible. Volunteers help open boxes, count, and wrap diapers for monthly diaper supplements. The organization also offers mobile wraps, allowing businesses to sponsor diapers, donate time, and host volunteer events. Learn more at nebraskadiaperbank.org.

The Sowers Club of Lincoln celebrated its annual Disbursement Function on December 5, 2025, recognizing outstanding service and announcing continued charitable efforts for the year ahead. During the event, current Club President Rob Roper was presented with the Sower of the Year Award by last year’s recipient, Michael Fiene, in recognition of his leadership and dedication to the organization’s mission.

The Sowers Club is a nonprofit organization committed to improving the lives of Nebraskans and promoting pride throughout the state by sowing goodwill through charitable giving, with an emphasis on youth, the underprivileged, and education. Through fundraising events and community partnerships, the Club supports a wide range of local initiatives that strengthen Lincoln and surrounding communities.

Looking ahead, the Club’s 2026 calendar is already filling with donation opportunities across the city. Members and supporters are encouraged to get involved as the organization continues expanding its outreach and impact in the coming year.

To learn more about The Sowers Club of Lincoln, upcoming events, or ways to support their mission, visit thesowersclub.com.

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

402-434-8008 www.willetconstruction.com

Youth for Christ Lincoln Area Announces Spring Break Adventure Camps for Middle School Students

Youth for Christ Lincoln Area is offering two exciting Spring Break camps designed to create adventure, connection, and meaningful growth for middle school students this March.

The Men’s Middle School Estes Park Trip will take place March 11–14 in Estes Park, Colorado. Students will travel in 12-passenger vans, departing early on the first day and arriving in Estes Park that evening for dinner. The following two days will be filled with outdoor mountain adventures including sledding, snowshoeing, hiking, and relaxing in a hot tub. Alongside the fun, students will engage in intentional conversations about what it means to grow into manhood in today’s world. The group will also spend time exploring downtown Estes Park. Students should bring extra money for one meal on the way out, one on the way back, and any souvenirs. A full packing list will be provided. For questions, contact trip leaders Mark or Micah at (402) 420-7475.

Middle school girls are invited to attend the Table Rock Retreat — “It’s Psalm in’ Time!” from March 7–10 at Table Rock Lake near Branson, Missouri. This four-day, three-night retreat includes lodging in a cabin, group sessions exploring the Psalms and the life of King David, and plenty of fun in true Campus Life style. Activities include a visit to the Sight & Sound Theatre in Branson, shopping in town, and a nature hike in the scenic Table Rock Lake area.

For questions, contact trip leader Shannon at (402) 420-7475.

These Spring Break trips offer students a chance to build friendships, explore faith, and make unforgettable memories in inspiring environments. For registration info, please visit yfclincoln.org.

The

Arc of Lincoln Launches 2026 with Inclusive Programming, Developmental Disability Awareness Month Activities, and Business Partnership Opportunities

The Arc of Lincoln is launching a 2026 expanded calendar of inclusive programs, community events, and partnership opportunities to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and families. Through the year, The Arc of Lincoln will offer inclusive social, recreation, advocacy, and family support programs to foster belonging and community. These initiatives are possible through strong business partnerships and community investment.

A major highlight of the spring season is March Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. The Arc of Lincoln will host a series of inclusive activities celebrating abilities, voices, and contributions of individuals with IDD, including a Pickleball Round Robin Fundraiser, an Inclusive Community Bingo Night, Social Media Awareness Spirit Days, offering opportunities for businesses to engage employees, sponsor events, and support inclusion. “Local businesses play a vital role in building inclusive communities,” said Jennifer Stuhmer, Executive Director - The Arc of Lincoln. “Through sponsorships, business memberships, and program support, our partners help create meaningful experiences while demonstrating social responsibility and community leadership.”

Businesses and community members are invited to support The Arc’s mission through Business Memberships, event sponsorships, program, activity donations, and contributions to auctions.To learn about partnership opportunities, events, or membership, visit arclincoln.org or email info@arclincoln.org.

CASA for Lancaster County Hosting Be the Voice February 26th

Make 2026 the Year You Finally Create a Will, Nebraska Community Foundation

CASA for Lancaster County is hosting their version of The Voice, Be the Voice Lincoln 2026, on Feb. 26 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Screamers Family Restaurant. The event, patterned after the successful television program, involves 12 singing competitors and four local celebrity judges. Competitors will face off in blind auditions (90 seconds to perform a song of choice), with eight voices moving on to the finale where the audience will vote for the winner. The proceeds of this fun event support the work of CASA volunteers. If interested in participating in the event, please fill out the following google form: forms.gle/2c2KwFuEG9dfzUsR8

Purchase tickets here: casa4lancaster.networkforgood.com/ events/95739-be-the-voice-lincoln-2026

CASA for Lancaster County is a local nonprofit that recruits, trains and supports community volunteers who advocate for the best interests of abused, neglected, truant and ungovernable children in Juvenile Court. CASA advocates are appointed by Juvenile Court Judges to be the voice of abused and neglected children. They advocate for the child’s best interests and communicate their wants and needs directly to the court. To learn more about how you or your business can support these efforts, visit casa4lancaster.org.

Willard Community Center Announces February Lineup of Community Events and Programs

Willard Community Center is pleased to announce a robust lineup of February activities designed to foster connection, wellness, and creativity among community members of all ages.

• Bingo mornings every Monday and Wednesday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

• YMCA fitness classes every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 to 10:45 a.m. focused on movement, strength, and overall wellness

• Aging Adults & Senior Citizen Potluck held the second Wednesday of each month from 11 a.m. to noon, with the February potluck on Wednesday, Feb. 11 featuring lasagna as the main dish (participants encouraged to bring a side or dessert)

• Bryan Health Wellness Presentation titled Functional Memory Strategies on Wednesday, Feb. 5 from 11 a.m. to noon, led by Dan Kasparek, Speech Language Pathologist and Rehabilitation Services

• Pal-entine’s Day Brunch open to the public on Friday, Feb. 13 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. featuring soup, salad, and bread, followed by Galentine’s Bingo Night Fundraiser from 7 to 9 p.m. benefiting Willard programs and services

• Four-week painting class taught by local artist Wendy Bantam on Feb. 11, 18, 25 and March 4 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., concluding with a community art showcase on March 4 from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Willard continues to serve as a place where community happens every day. Whether through shared meals, movement, learning, or creativity, the center provides an environment that supports belonging, strengthens relationships, and enriches the lives of those it serves, reinforcing its role as a vital gathering place for the community. For more about February events or how to participate, visit willardcommunitycenter.org.

An estimated 70% of American adults have either an outdated will or no will at all. Planning for the future is easier than most people think and 2026 is the perfect time to get started.

Nebraska Community Foundation offers a free Wills Guide that will guide you through the process. The easy-to-use, fill-in-the-blank downloadable booklet will help you organize your assets and your intent, all in one place. It is full of useful information and templates to record your family’s information, accounts, assets, liabilities and charitable intentions.

Visit nebcommfound.giftlegacy.com to download or request our free wills guide and start making a plan to provide for your family and support the communities and causes you care about.

Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) works with professional advisors and their clients every day to help put their assets to work with tax-efficient charitable strategies that make positive impact on the Nebraska communities they care about most. NCF unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. Headquartered in Lincoln, the Foundation serves communities, donors and organizations by providing financial management, strategic development, education and training to a statewide network of 1,500 volunteers serving 266 communities. Since 1994, Nebraska Community Foundation has reinvested over $594 million in Nebraska’s people and places.

Building Stronger Futures: The David Staenberg Family Foundation’s Commitment to Veteran Financial Literacy

GoodwillCollects3,192Poundsof Electronics at Annual Recycling Drive

For many veterans, the transition from service to civilian life comes with new financial challenges—budgeting, managing credit, preparing for homeownership, planning retirement, and building stability. The David Staenberg Family Foundation (DSFF) is proud to meet this need head-on by offering a comprehensive 12-week Financial Veteran Literacy Program at the Vet Center, completely free to those who have served. This program, taught by financial educator Ken Coleson, provides veterans with practical, approachable tools to confidently manage money, reduce stress, and build healthy habits that support long-term stability for themselves and their families. Ken’s engaging teaching style and real-world experience make the material easy to understand and immediately applicable—empowering veterans to make informed decisions.

The David Staenberg Family Foundation believes in the ripple effect of financial literacy. When veterans gain greater control over their finances, it strengthens not only them but also their families, workplaces, and community. This 12-week program is one of the only veteran-focused financial literacy offerings of its kind in the region, and DSFF is committed to keeping it accessible at no cost.

To ensure this valuable program continues to grow and reach more veterans, please consider making a donation. Your generosity helps build financially confident families and stronger communities—one veteran at a time. Visit davidstaenbergfamilyfoundation.org Together, we can empower those who have served us all.

On Saturday, Jan. 10, Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. held its ninth annual Electronics Recycling Drive to celebrate National Technology Week. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Goodwill collected a total of 3,192 pounds of electronics from donors in the community.

Thanks to Goodwill’s partnership with Dell Reconnect, all electronic donations were either resold, refurbished or responsibly recycled. Working electronics were sold in Goodwill’s thrift stores in Lincoln and York, where the revenue helps fund employment services and programs in Southeast Nebraska. Nonworking electronics were shipped to Dell’s recycling centers and broken down in an environmentally responsible manner. By recycling used technology, Dell keeps reusable materials out of the landfill and decreases the amount of e-waste in the environment. Events like the Electronics Recycling Drive not only protect the environment, but also create opportunities for individuals in our community to gain job training, employment support, and greater independence. Each donation plays a small but meaningful role in building a stronger, more sustainable Southeast Nebraska Lincoln Goodwill accepts electronics of all brands and conditions year-round at all retail locations. Stay up-to-date on upcoming events by following @LincolnGoodwill on Facebook and signing up for their e-newsletter. To find a donation center near you, visit lincolngoodwill.org.

MARCH 2026 JOINING ORGANIZATIONS FEATURE

Strictly Business is calling out to all local organizations and associations to participate in our March 2026 Joining Organizations Feature! This biannual feature (March & September) is an excellent opportunity for organizations to gain exposure by sharing their membership benefits, networking opportunities, community involvement, access to resources, etc. with all of our readers.

Strictly Business goes out to over 10,000 businesses in Lincoln and 15,000 businesses in Omaha every month, PLUS this feature will also be published online and linked to your website and social media platforms.

This feature includes a logo and a 150-word write-up about your organization.

(This can include information about your history, mission, current projects/programs, needs, and contact information.)

COST TO PARTICIPATE..

• Lincoln publication: $250

• Omaha publication: $275

• Lincoln and Omaha publications: $500

PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR 150-WORD WRITE-UP WITH CURRENT LOGO BY:

FRIDAY,

FEBRUARY 6TH

Participation in the Joining Organizations feature includes

6 MONTHS OF FREE PRESS!

You may submit up to 6 press releases (max.1 per issue) during the months of (Mar, Apr, May, Jun, July & Aug).

Each press release is normally valued at $275 (Lincoln) / $350 (Omaha)!

A press release is a write-up (200-240 words) about a newsworthy* announcement with your logo or a photo.

*Upcoming events, awards, new board members/staff, etc.

FRIENDS

FRIENDS

You are invited to second Friends4Lunch of the New Year. This will be held at Mi Tierra – North Location, located at 8320 Northwoods Dr. Ste 800, on Wednesday, Feb. 4th at 11:30 a.m.

Mi Tierra is a family restaurant that specializes in authentic Mexican dishes with enchiladas, carne con camarones, pollo asado, healthy vegetarian options, soups and burritos. Family-owned for 15 years, the restaurant prides themselves on putting the customer first and delivering consistent and delicious food that is authentic and nutritious. This is the perfect place for a mid-day office escape with friends. 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 Friends4Lunch, 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

We wanted to say thank you to everyone who came to our last Friends4Drinks event, held on Jan. 30 at 4p.m., at The Copper Kettle in Downtown Lincoln, located at 230 N 12th St. We enjoyed delightful conversations with business colleagues and friends and enjoyed flavor-packed tacos, specialty wings, mules and celebrated Paige Zutavern’s birthday, president of Strictly Business.

Renowned for its scratch-made menu, elevated comfort cuisine, and exceptional service, The Copper Kettle provided an ideal setting for connecting with colleagues, building new relationships, and enjoying a purposeful midday break. We reconnected with familiar faces while expanding our professional circles in a warm, welcoming environment that made networking feel natural and enjoyable. With great food, engaging conversation, a relaxed atmosphere and a great reason to celebrate, the gathering offered a memorable evening experience at one of Lincoln’s favorite locally owned spots, centered on meaningful connections and good company.

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

For information on Friends4Drinks or Friends4Lunch or Strictly Business, reach out to 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

Lincoln’s Air Service Opportunity

(402) 436-2350 www.lcoc.com

Jason Ball, President & CEO – Lincoln Chamber of Commerce

At the close of 2025, Lincoln received news worth celebratingnews that reflects strong momentum, continued growth and a bright future. American Airlines announced plans to introduce daily nonstop flights from Lincoln to Dallas–Fort Worth and Chicago beginning in 2026, along with seasonal service to Phoenix. This announcement builds on recent progress at the Lincoln Airport, following Breeze Airways’ launch of nonstop service to Orlando and the addition of routes to Las Vegas and Orange County this spring. United Airlines will also continue providing reliable connections to Chicago and Denver, ensuring Lincoln remains well connected to key business and leisure markets.

With this recent news, the Lincoln Airport is now on track to offer nonstop service to seven destinations across three airlines. For Lincoln’s business community, this level of connectivity is a true game changer. It enhances how we do business, how we attract talent and how easily we stay connected to the rest of the country. The importance of this cannot be overstated.

Moments like this don’t happen by accident. In 2022, Nebraska voters approved a constitutional amendment allowing regional airports to use certain revenues to recruit and retain air service. That pivotal decision laid the groundwork for today’s success and was driven by committed leaders and advocates, including Nick Cusick of Bison, State Senator Eliot Bostar, Congressman Mike Flood and many others who made the case statewide.

Since then, the Lincoln Airport team continued to innovate and recruit new service. In 2024, they adopted a new strategic plan, engaging industry expert Kenneth Strickland to guide air service development. Along the way, our community also had thoughtful, and at times difficult conversations about smart investments, revenue guarantees and long-term priorities. Rather than allowing past challenges to define us, Lincoln chose progress. As a result, we have the best opportunity for robust air service our community has experienced in the past decade.

While this progress undoubtedly deserves celebration, it also marks the beginning of an important next phase. Over the next two years, airlines will closely evaluate passenger demand as revenue guarantees begin to phase out. Those decisions will shape whether these routes become permanent fixtures or missed opportunities. The good news is that the outcome is largely within our control, and this is where the Lincoln business community plays a vital role. Every time a company, organization or individual chooses to Fly LNK, it sends a powerful signal of support. Consistent use demonstrates that Lincoln values and sustains its air service. If we show up collectively, we have a rare opportunity to secure these routes for the long term and strengthen our case for even more destinations in the future.

Reliable air service is more than a convenience; it is a cornerstone of a competitive business environment. These new routes strengthen Lincoln’s ability to attract talent, retain businesses, host large-scale events and support regional growth. When we choose to Fly LNK, we are not just booking a flight, we are investing in Lincoln’s future and reinforcing our place on the map for years to come.

DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION

by Todd Ogden, President

Celebrating Ten Years of Hub Cafe

(402) 434-6900

www.downtownlincoln.org

For the past decade, Hub Cafe has been guided by a simple yet enduring belief: local ingredients matter. What began as a vision rooted in Lincoln’s local food system has grown into a community-centered café that brings together friends, food, and a shared appreciation for thoughtful, sustainable dining.

Founded by owners Jake and Crystal Thiessen, Hub Cafe was created to serve as more than a place to eat. It was designed as a gathering space, a true hub, where community, conversation, and cuisine intersect.

Inspired by the farmers, growers, and artisans who define our region, Hub Cafe proudly reflects the strength and integrity of Lincoln’s local food network.

Seasonality and intention continue to shape the menu. Executive chef and co-owner Jake Thiessen brings a refined yet approachable perspective to eco-conscious cuisine, offering fresh interpretations of familiar favorites.

Each dish is driven by the availability of local ingredients, ensuring that flavor, quality, and sustainability remain at the forefront. This commitment allows the menu to evolve naturally throughout the year, highlighting the best of each season.

Equally crucial to Hub Cafe’s identity is the atmosphere cultivated within its walls. Under Crystal Thiessen’s leadership, Hub has grown into a welcoming space where guests feel encouraged to linger, connect, and return.

From daily regulars to visiting cyclists, families, and friends, Hub Cafe has become an integral part of the rhythms of the community it serves.

Over the past ten years, Hub Cafe has been shaped by many hands and hearts. We extend our sincere gratitude to the local producers who supply our kitchen, the dedicated team members, past and present, who bring care and professionalism to every service, and the guests who have supported our mission from the beginning.

As we mark this milestone, we reflect with pride on what has been built and with optimism for what lies ahead. Hub Cafe remains committed to honoring local ingredients, fostering meaningful connections, and serving food that reflects both purpose and passion.

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.

The Power Behind Lincoln’s Economy: Why Small Businesses — and LIBA — Matter More Than Ever

Which businesses are the most important in our community?

Most of us instinctively picture the big names. If you’re at Memorial Stadium on a football Saturday, you might think of Runza or Ameritas Life Insurance. Those brands loom large in our minds — and for good reason.

But here’s the spoiler: every company starts as a small business. Even Runza. Even Ameritas.

That’s why understanding the true impact of small business matters. Knowledge is power, and when we look beyond payroll numbers or sales figures, we gain a much clearer perspective — one that’s been sitting right behind us all along.

A Legacy Built by Small Beginnings

Consider just a few Lincoln based companies and the year they were founded:

• 1887 – Ameritas Life Insurance (The Old Line Bankers Life Insurance Company)

• 1908 – NEBCO – George P. Abel

• 1920 – Willmar Electric – S.B. Chapin

• 1933 – Harris Laboratories/Celerion – Dr. Lew Harris

• 1947 – Hampton Construction/Enterprises – Joe Hampton

• 1947 – T.O. Haas – Theo “T.O.” Haas

• 1948 – Kidwell Electric – Don Kidwell

• 1949 – Runza – Sally Everett

• 1952 – Bryant Heating & Cooling – Fred R. “Bob” Sikyta

• 1952 – Lincoln Plating/Lincoln Industries – Dale LeBaron

• 1952 – Douglas Theaters – Russell Brehm/Senator Roman Hruska

• 1952 – Speedway Motors – Bill “Speedy” Smith

Now imagine the Lincoln community without these companies. It becomes infinitely clear: small businesses don’t just create jobs. They create identity. They create stability. They create community.

They give us confidence that Lincoln is a place where big ideas can take root and business grow. At the same time, they give others confidence to start their business or move their business to Lincoln.

Our Choices Shape Our Future

We’ve all heard it. We know it. Buy “local”. And we often talk a good game about buying local, especially around the holidays. But we’re all busy juggling kids, careers, our parents and other commitments. So how often do we actually choose the local option when it costs a dollar more or arrives a day later?

Moreover, how often do we make that choice in March, July, or October — not just December?

If we want more homegrown success stories, more companies that will anchor our community for generations, then supporting small businesses can’t be seasonal. It has to be an “all the time thing” – it must be part of our collective ethos.

In doing that we continue to nurture the entrepreneurial spirit that creates the next Hampton, the next Speedway Motors, the next Lincoln Industries.

A City That Believes in Builders

Lincoln is fortunate. We’ve had visionaries in our community that saw this and brought new energy to Lincoln’s startup ecosystem. Nebraska Angels, NMotion, LaunchLNK, and others have helped founders take their first steps.

But there is one organization uniquely positioned to champion small businesses every single day — not just at launch, not just during the holidays, not just when it’s convenient.

This Is Where LIBA Comes In

LIBA has a powerful role in shaping Lincoln’s economic future because LIBA is made up of the very businesses that built this city. We are small business. We represent small business. And most importantly, LIBA members do business with LIBA members.

That network — that culture of choosing each other — is how small businesses become strong businesses. It’s how strong businesses become legacy businesses. And it’s how legacy businesses become the backbone of a thriving community.

Make no mistake – growing your brand and your business will always be part of the reason for being a LIBA member. But equally important, if not more – is to be a bridge builder. When you support LIBA, you’re investing in the next generation of businesses that will one day appear on lists just like this. “He too must cross in the twilight dim; Good friend, I am building the bridge for him.”

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.

KIDS’ HEALTH

Your child’s health is rarely a single concern. It’s a constant stream of questions that evolve as they grow. Are they eating enough? Getting the right nutrition? Making friends at school? Sleeping well? Moving their bodies enough? How’s their confidence, their mood, their sense of belonging? Even experienced parents find themselves thrown the occasional curveball. Every child is different, and every stage brings new challenges. Many parents wrestle with the same question: how do you stay emotionally present while still being the steady, guiding voice your child needs?

Winter has a way of complicating those questions. Shorter days, colder temperatures, and disrupted routines quietly influence how kids feel and function. With less time spent outdoors and fewer opportunities for unstructured play, energy levels shift. Sleep patterns can become inconsistent, and mood changes often follow. These

seasonal effects don’t always announce themselves loudly—they tend to build gradually, making them easy to miss in the day-to-day rush.

By February, the school year reaches a particularly demanding stretch. The excitement of fall has faded, while academic expectations remain high. Schedules feel repetitive, social dynamics continue to evolve, and testing or major projects begin to pile up. Motivation can dip, and emotional fatigue sets in. What might look like disengagement or attitude is often exhaustion… mental, emotional, or physical.

Physical activity plays an important role during this time, even as winter limits outdoor movement. When activity drops off, kids may experience changes in strength, coordination, sleep quality, and even classroom focus. Staying active doesn’t have to mean organized sports; simple, consistent movement—whether indoors, at home, or through structured programs—supports both physical health and emotional regulation.

For kids, staying active doesn’t have to mean organized sports or rigid routines to be effective. Something as simple as getting outside and moving consistently can have a powerful impact on both physical and mental health. Walking, jogging, or even casual play helps build endurance, strengthen growing muscles, and support coordination— especially during winter months when activity often drops off.

Local specialty shops like Lincoln Running Co. understand that the right gear plays a role in making movement comfortable and sustainable for kids and families alike. Inside, you’ll find essentials like running and walking shoes, jackets, tights, socks, and recovery tools. These items aren’t just products. They’re tools that help build a personal wellness toolbox. A properly fitted pair of shoes can reduce strain, support healthy alignment, and help prevent injury, making kids more confident and comfortable as they move.

Staying active doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated. Outdoor movement is one of the most accessible ways for kids to stay healthy, requiring little more than fresh air, supportive footwear, and weatherappropriate layers. When kids are dressed comfortably, they’re more likely to stay engaged and enjoy the activity rather than focus on discomfort.

Recovery matters too, even for kids. Tools like foam rollers or massage devices can help young bodies rest and reset after activity, reinforcing healthy habits around movement and recovery. Paired

with hydration and regular breaks, these small practices teach kids how to listen to their bodies.

Another aspect of kids’ health to keep in mind as your little ones grow up is how their bodies are growing. Is everything healthy? When parents aren’t sure how to address back pain, posture concerns, or alignment issues in their children, many look to trusted professionals for guidance. A child’s physical health plays a meaningful role in how they grow, move, and feel each day, and addressing concerns early can help support long-term well-being.

At Healing Hands Chiropractic , Dr. Kimberly Hoffa works with children using gentle, age-appropriate chiropractic care designed specifically for growing bodies. Pediatric chiropractic focuses on the musculoskeletal system, supporting proper alignment, mobility, and balance throughout childhood. Even minor misalignments can influence how a child moves or feels, which is why care is aimed at supporting overall function—not just relieving discomfort.

One of the benefits of pediatric chiropractic care is its noninvasive approach. Treatments use light pressure and specialized techniques tailored to a child’s size and developmental stage. By emphasizing posture, coordination, and balance, chiropractic care offers families an option that supports the body naturally, without surgery or medication.

As children become more active through sports, play, and everyday movement, maintaining proper alignment becomes increasingly important. Supportive footwear and well-fitting gear can help reinforce healthy movement patterns and reduce unnecessary strain, especially for kids who are constantly on the move.

Many parents assume they need to buy brand-new, top-of-the-line equipment for their child to participate. In reality, proper fit and comfort matter far more than price tags or brand names, especially for younger children who may outgrow gear in a matter of months. More families are choosing to start with quality used equipment or a mix of new and used pieces, particularly when a child is trying a sport for the first time.

Fit plays a significant role in both safety and enjoyment. Shoes that don’t fit correctly can lead to discomfort or impact performance. Protective equipment that shifts or sits incorrectly can increase risk of injury. Checking sizing regularly is important, as children’s feet and bodies change quickly throughout the year.

Play It Again Sports in Lincoln offers families a practical way to access a wide range of sporting equipment in one place. From shoes and protective gear to seasonal sports equipment, the variety available makes it easier for parents to find what their child needs as activities and weather change — without committing to expensive purchases every time.

When kids feel comfortable in their gear, they’re more likely to focus on having fun, staying active, and building healthy habits that can last well beyond childhood.

Winter is also peak cold and flu season, which can take a toll beyond physical symptoms. Missed school days, lingering fatigue,

Chiropractic Care for the Entire Family! (Kids, too!)

your appointment today!

and disrupted routines can affect confidence and focus. Supporting immune health through sleep, hygiene, nutrition, and adequate rest helps kids recover more quickly and stay engaged socially and academically.

Nutrition plays a role here as well. Winter schedules often lead to heavier meals, irregular eating patterns, and less hydration. These shifts can impact energy levels and concentration throughout the day. Balanced meals and consistent nourishment help stabilize mood and prevent the afternoon crashes many families notice mid-school year. Perhaps most importantly, winter highlights the need for connection. Time spent with family, friends, and community programs provides reassurance and a sense of belonging. Shared routines—meals, activities, or simple conversations—help kids feel grounded when the outside world feels smaller.

At the same time, kids don’t always have the words to describe how they’re feeling. Stress can show up as irritability, withdrawal, or sudden changes in behavior rather than clear expressions of anxiety or sadness. Consistent routines, predictable schedules, and regular emotional check-ins help create a sense of stability during months when patience feels thinner and emotions run higher.

For kids with autism or other developmental disabilities, their social, mental and physical health can be an unfamiliar challenge for many parents. Galliant Care in Lincoln specializes in Applied Behavioral Analysis for kids to young adults. First and foremost, they want families to know that they are not alone and their child is seen as an individual. At Galliant, they take the time to truly get to know each child and family, meeting them where they are and building support around their unique strengths and needs. Their goal is to create a welcoming, compassionate environment where families feel

Get Active in 2026

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?

supported, informed, and confident in the care their child is receiving from day one.

Children learn best when they are happy, relaxed, engaged and able to be themselves. That’s why they use a Natural Environment Teaching (NET) approach, embedding skill-building into play, routines, and everyday interactions rather than relying on rigid or overly structured instruction. This allows children to practice important skills in meaningful, real-life situations while still enjoying time to explore, play, and connect with peers. By following each child’s interests and honoring their needs for fun and creativity, they help them grow in a way that feels natural, supportive, and true to being a kid.

Early intervention is so impactful because the early years are a critical time for brain development, learning, and skill acquisition. When support begins early, children have more opportunities to build meaningful skills that can positively influence their longterm development and independence. At Galliant, they focus on foundational skills such as communication, social engagement, play, emotional regulation, and daily living skills. These core areas help children better understand and interact with the world around them and provide a strong foundation for continued growth across settings like home, school, and the community.

One common misconception is that ABA is rigid or focuses on changing who a child is. In reality, quality ABA, which is practiced at Galliant, is child-centered, compassionate, and focused on building skills that improve a child’s quality of life while honoring their individuality.

The goal is not to “fix” a child, but to support them in communicating, connecting, and navigating their world in ways that feel meaningful and empowering for both the child and their family.

Families are a vital part of the treatment process at Galliant, and they view parents and caregivers as true partners in their child’s growth. They actively involve families through regular communication, collaboration on goals, and ongoing parent training. Parent training is critical to long-term success because it empowers caregivers with the tools and strategies needed to support their child consistently across everyday routines and environments. When families feel confident implementing strategies at home and in the community, skills are more likely to generalize and be maintained over time, leading to more meaningful and lasting progress for the child.

More Than Speech Therapy:

At Link to Communication , they believe every child deserves to be heard, understood, and confident in how they communicate. Serving children and families in our community, their team of licensed speech-language pathologists provides comprehensive, evidence-based services designed to support communication, learning, and overall development from early childhood through adolescence.

While speech therapy is at the heart of what they do, Link to Communication offers a wide range of services tailored to meet each child’s unique needs. They work with children who experience challenges with speech sound production and articulation, language development, fluency, social communication skills, and dyslexia or literacy-related skills, including phonological awareness and early reading support.

Strong communication skills are closely tied to academic success, social relationships, and self-confidence. When children struggle to communicate clearly, it can affect reading, writing, classroom participation, and peer interactions. The goal is to build a strong foundation so children can thrive both in and out of school.

Myofunctional Therapy & Feeding Support:

Link to Communication also specializes in orofacial myofunctional therapy, which focuses on how the muscles of the mouth, face, and tongue work together for breathing, chewing, swallowing, and speaking. Inefficient patterns may impact sleep, speech clarity, feeding, and dental development. They support children with mouth breathing, tongue thrust, feeding and swallowing concerns, and oralmotor weakness or coordination difficulties.

Therapy at Link to Communication is never one-size-fits-all. Each child receives an individualized evaluation and treatment plan based on their strengths and needs. They partner closely with families, schools, and professionals to support progress beyond the therapy room.

Helping families take the first step is important to them. It’s never too early—or too late—to seek support. They are proud to serve our community by helping children build confidence and reach their full potential.

Supporting kids’ health isn’t about fixing everything at once. It’s about noticing changes, adjusting expectations, and creating space for rest, movement, nourishment, and connection — all small steps that make a meaningful difference as kids grow up. With steady support and simple routines, kids feel secure and better equipped to navigate challenges.

Weddings

For many of us, our wedding is one of the most meaningful days of our lives, long imagined before we even understood what love truly is or how it feels. As kids, it starts simple: sleepovers spent talking about dream wedding dresses inspired by movies or television, picturing a first dance without knowing who it would be with. As we grow older, those ideas evolve. Attending other people’s weddings helps us learn what resonates and what doesn’t. Over time, priorities shift. Some traditions that once felt expected—like conga lines or cake smashing—may no longer fit, making room for moments that feel more personal and authentic. In the end, many couples choose to shape a day that reflects who they are now, creating a celebration that feels genuine, intentional, and uniquely theirs.

As more couples rethink what they want their weddings to look like, venues are evolving alongside them. That evolution is part of the story at Venue 5 TwentyTwo, which completed its first full year of weddings in 2025. One year of “I do’s” has given the space a livedin sense of understanding—of what works, what eases nerves, and what helps a wedding day feel grounded instead of rushed. For co-founders Kylie Gana and Lori Gana, that first year wasn’t just about opening doors, but about learning how to support couples through one of the most meaningful days of their lives.

The venue itself encourages that ease. An outdoor ceremony space with turf and a pergola offers a simple, open setting that feels intentional without being overdesigned. It allows couples to focus on the moment rather than the backdrop. From there, the day flows naturally into gathering spaces that invite conversation—covered patios, fire pits, and flexible layouts that let guests linger and connect.

There is the sense of calm that comes from thoughtful coordination. After a year of weddings, the Venue 5 Twenty-Two team understands the rhythm of the day—the pauses, the transitions, and the moments that deserve breathing room. Vendors, families, and wedding parties are all considered part of the experience, not just pieces to manage. After the first dance, at the end of the night, the following morning from the fridge or anytime in between, wedding cakes and dessert should never be an afterthought at your wedding… and never go to waste.

There are so many options out there for desserts and many factors to take into account. How much will your guests want to eat after dinner? What are the bride and groom’s preferences? Guest preferences? What’s the budget and vision for the dessert? Do you

want a classic tiered wedding cake, or something more unique and rich to indulge in. Sweet Things By Marcy is full of delectable indulgences to make the dessert as special as the day itself. Marcy’s desserts bring more than sweetness to the table. Rooted in Southern tradition and shaped by years of care and intention, her baked goods feel personal in a way guests immediately recognize. Classics like banana pudding, peach cobbler, sweet potato pie, and her signature Kentucky butter cake carried a sense of nostalgia—desserts that invite conversation, spark memories, and quietly steal the spotlight. As the evening unfolded, guests returned for seconds not out of obligation, but because the desserts felt like part of the celebration itself. They were warm, unpretentious, and deeply satisfying—exactly the tone the couple hoped to set for their day.

The overall food you have at your wedding can make or break it for guests and for yourself. Choosing something that not only works for your budget but for your crowd sometimes doesn’t align. Whether it is a formal dinner, an all you can eat buffet, later night snacks or a specialty menu, there are so many routes you can go for catering in the Lincoln area.

Designed to host up to 250 guests, The Talon Room offers the rare balance of scale and intimacy. Its industrial architecture—soaring ceilings, exposed brick and clean lines—creates a backdrop that feels both elevated and relaxed. It’s a space that doesn’t dictate your vision, but supports it, whether your style leans minimalist, romantic, modern, or somewhere in between.

With separate ballroom and dining areas, the venue naturally accommodates the flow of a wedding day, giving guests room to move, mingle, and settle in. Private bridal and groom suites offer a quiet pause amid the celebration—a place to breathe, reset, and share meaningful moments before stepping back into the room filled with everyone you love.

One thing that stands out regarding The Talon Room is their comprehensive planning resources for weddings. With detailed budget breakdowns and planning timelines, The Talon Room makes steps towards making your wedding everything you dreamed it to be even before you say yes to The Talon Room. There are ways to make this special day not break the bank, or as much as it could. By cutting down cost with having your wedding in an off-season or on a weekday can tremendously decrease the cost of the venue alone, and with that, many other services will have lower rates as well for weekday events.

Consider having your ceremony and reception at the same location. Carting guests from one venue to another not only adds another complexity in a day already swarming with activity, but this is money down the drain when there are venues in Lincoln that are suited for both ceremony and reception. If you do have to cart some people around, The Talon Room is situated in the heart of Lincoln, where any of your wedding wants live.

Offering full bellies, unforgettable memories and a loyal wedding planner and partner, choosing The Talon Room is choosing excellence for your wedding.

Bachelor and bachelorette parties are a milestone moment in the wedding journey—a chance to celebrate the excitement leading up to the big day with the friends who have been there through every chapter. And when planning these parties, it is important that the maid of honor and best man do exactly what the bride/ groom wants. Start by considering the personality and priorities of the guest of honor—what feels celebratory to them sets the tone for everything else. From there, think about the group as a whole and choose activities that invite participation rather than pressure. A thoughtful balance between planned moments and open time allows the celebration to feel organized without becoming rigid. Logistics matter more than they seem, so securing key reservations early can prevent unnecessary stress later. When done well, the focus stays on shared experiences, easy energy, and time spent together—elements that turn a celebration into a standout moment of the wedding journey.

The Back Nine Golf in Lincoln’s south side offers an unexpected and engaging venue that blends sport, socializing, and friendly competition. This 24/7 indoor golf simulator facility has emerged as a standout local destination for both serious golfers and casual players alike, making it an ideal backdrop for rehearsal dinners, bachelor and bachelorette parties, or post-wedding gatherings.

Located at 7501 S. 15th Street, The Back Nine Golf invites guests to experience world-class golf courses from around the globe, such as Pebble Beach and St. Andrews through cutting-edge simulator technology that mimics true ball flight, terrain, and course strategy. The all-weather indoor environment pays dividends for celebrations held any season, giving friends and family the chance to tee off together without worrying about rain or cold.

Beyond casual play, the facility’s flexible booking options make it easy to tailor an event around your wedding weekend. Groups can reserve multiple simulator bays for 2 to 5 hours of entertainment, and the space accommodates both intimate gatherings and larger parties, making it perfect for groups of varying sizes.

Whether your crew is sharpening swings or sharing laughs over friendly competition, The Back Nine Golf provides a distinctive and lively way to celebrate love, community, and good times while staying comfortably indoors.

The ring is often the first lasting symbol of a wedding story. Long after the celebration ends, it becomes part of everyday life, worn through milestones, quiet moments, and years still unfolding. It’s not simply a piece of jewelry, but a reminder of intention, commitment, and the choice to build a life together. That’s why, for many couples, selecting a ring carries meaning far beyond aesthetics.

At Sartor Hamann, that understanding is at the heart of the process. With more than 120 years of history and in-house master jewelers, Sartor Hamann works closely with couples to create pieces that feel personal and enduring. From custom engagement rings and wedding bands to thoughtful details like in-house engraving and day-of styling support, the experience is designed to honor both the moment and what comes next. As couples plan their weddings

in 2026 and even for 2027, many are leaning toward rings that balance timeless design with individuality. Classic solitaires remain a favorite, alongside bezel-set engagement rings and personalized touches such as engraved bands and heirloom redesigns. More than anything, couples are choosing rings meant to last, be worn daily, cherished deeply, and eventually passed down. By incorporating family stones, redesigning heirlooms, or creating something entirely new, Sartor Hamann helps couples honor the people and stories that came before while beginning a new chapter together.

Finding a wedding look is rarely just about the dress. It’s about how a bride feels in the moment—supported, confident, and seen. At Blush Bridal Boutique, that belief shapes every part of the experience. The team welcomes all brides into its space, embracing the privilege of being part of each love story. Creating a diverse, inclusive, and safe environment is central to the boutique’s mission, ensuring that every bride feels represented, celebrated, and comfortable being fully herself. Gown shopping here is designed to feel intentional and affirming… never overwhelming.

Rather than offering endless options, Blush Bridal believes that more isn’t always better. Their hand-curated collection of gowns and accessories is thoughtfully selected to reflect the needs and styles of their brides, with customization options available throughout the collection. Through in-house Bespoke by Blush services, brides can personalize gowns and accessories, create custom veils, add meaningful embroidery, or even reimaging heirloom pieces into something new.

Stylists guide brides with care and clarity, allowing the experience to unfold naturally. Whether a bride arrives with a clear vision or is just beginning to explore, Blush Bridal ensures the process feels supportive and special from start to finish, honoring not only the gown, but the person wearing it.

The Graduate by Hilton - Lincoln offers a comprehensive suite of wedding services that extend far beyond reserving a room block for guests. From the initial planning stages through the final farewell, the hotel’s dedicated team is committed to ensuring every aspect of your wedding day unfolds seamlessly. Arden George, the Catering and Conference Services Manager, plays a pivotal role in this process, working diligently to manage details with precision and ease the stress that often accompanies wedding planning.

Supported by a team of seasoned professionals, The Graduate provides guidance at every phase, ensuring no detail is overlooked. From vendor coordination and timeline management to flawless execution of logistics, the staff remains readily available to support couples throughout the journey. The hotel’s highly personalized approach ensures each celebration is thoughtfully tailored to reflect the couple’s unique vision, style, and preferences. Arden’s hands-on leadership further elevates the experience. As she explains, “I’ll be by your side through every step, ensuring we’ve checked every box—even the ones you didn’t know existed.” With this level of attentive, end-to-end support, couples can confidently entrust their special day to The Graduate, knowing it will be executed with care, professionalism, and distinction.

As couples prepare for one of life’s most photographed moments, Katniss Clinic offers services designed to help clients’ look and feel confident leading up to the big day. The clinic provides a full spectrum of care, from advanced surgical consultations including breast augmentation, liposuction, facelifts, and reconstructive procedures, to non-surgical aesthetic treatments such as Botox, dermal fillers, and micro needling. Each service is customized to align with individual goals, timelines, and comfort levels.

Katniss Clinic in Lincoln has quietly become one of the city’s most respected boutique practices for clients seeking tailored aesthetic and reconstructive care with an elevated touch. Located inside New Skin Aesthetics at 5757 S. 34th Street, Suite 300, the clinic is anchored by founder Dr. Keli Kolegraff, MD, PhD, a fellowshiptrained plastic and reconstructive surgeon known for blending surgical precision with a highly personalized approach.

What sets Katniss Clinic apart is its boutique, client-centered experience. Easy online scheduling, thoughtful consultations, and the option for both in-office and virtual appointments make planning seamless, an especially valued benefit for busy professionals and engaged couples juggling wedding details.

With its commitment to natural-looking results, clinical excellence, and streamlined access, Katniss Clinic continues to stand out in Lincoln’s wellness and aesthetics landscape. For those preparing for their wedding day, the clinic offers not just treatments, but confidence that lasts well beyond “I do.”

At Wilderness Ridge Country Club in Lincoln, couples looking for a wedding venue find more than just a beautiful backdrop. From the moment couples inquire, they connect with a single sales manager who serves as their guide throughout the entire journey. This continuity ensures that the planning process—from tours and booking to execution—feels seamless and personal. Guest-focused banquet staff support every detail, with multiple meetings leading up to the big day to ensure a flawless event. Many couples begin working with Wilderness Ridge soon after getting engaged. Once they have a date or timeframe in mind, the team encourages them to check availability, especially for weekend dates

that

After initial booking, there’s space to breathe before menu discussions begin. In the months leading up to the wedding, the sales manager will reach out to discuss menu options and arrange tastings, helping couples shape every element of their reception at their own pace.

Weddings at Wilderness Ridge take full advantage of the venue’s natural beauty and thoughtfully designed spaces. The property’s Wedding Island offers an idyllic outdoor ceremony site on the first hole of the Talon Course, where couples exchange vows beneath a sprawling elm tree overlooking sparkling ponds. The romantic setting is complemented by the Yellowstone Ballroom, with its 32-foot vaulted ceilings, stone fireplace, wraparound cedar deck, and views of the championship golf course, creating a cozy yet elegant space for receptions of up to 230 guests.

One trend the team has noticed is couples choosing to host both

their ceremony and reception at Wilderness Ridge, often taking advantage of a rehearsal dinner option where rental fees are waived if booked on the night before the reception. This flexibility not only simplifies planning but adds another layer of convenience and celebration for couples and their families.

What makes Wilderness Ridge especially stress-free for families and guests is the consistent point of contact and the staff’s commitment to delivering on every detail. For those just starting the venue search, the advice from the Wilderness Ridge team is simple: visit the space, check availability early, and trust your instincts. You’ll know you’ve found the right venue when it “feels right.”

At The Courtyard by Marriott Lincoln Downtown, they’re there to support the moments that make your wedding weekend complete. From welcoming out-of-town guests to hosting meaningful pre-wedding gatherings, the team helps create a memorable experience for everyone involved.

The downtown location and servicefocused approach make them a favorite choice for wedding room blocks, giving couples confidence that their guests will be well taken care of. With flexible room block options and clear communication throughout the process, they make reserving rooms easy for both couples and their guests.

The Courtyard is also a popular spot for rehearsal dinners and welcome events. The inviting space, on-site catering, and a team experienced in hosting wedding-weekend gatherings create the perfect setting to kick off the celebration!

For bridal parties, their guest rooms and event spaces can offer a comfortable setting to get ready together—perfect for hair, makeup, photos, and those quiet moments before walking down the aisle.

“I want couples to know that their guests are in good hands,” says Sydney Becker, Sales Manager at Courtyard by Marriott Lincoln Downtown. “Whether it’s room blocks, rehearsal dinners, or gettingready space, I’m here to make the process straightforward and stress-free.”

If you are looking for a trusted hotel partner, The Courtyard by Marriott is here to help your wedding weekend come together effortlessly.

In the end, a wedding isn’t defined by any single choice — not the venue, the menu, the dress, or the ring — but by how all the pieces come together to reflect a couple’s story. It’s a day shaped by intention, supported by thoughtful partners, and filled with moments that feel deeply personal. From the first planning decisions to the final dance, what matters most is creating an experience that feels true to who you are and the life you’re building together.

As wedding traditions continue to evolve, so do the ways couples celebrate. Whether it’s reimagining a ceremony space, sharing a meal that feels like home, choosing a ring with legacy in mind, or finding a gown that feels like self-expression, today’s weddings are less about expectation and more about authenticity. And in that shift, the wedding day becomes not just a milestone, but a meaningful beginning.

Because long after the cake is eaten, the flowers fade, and the music quiets, what remains is the memory of a day lived fully, surrounded by love, laughter, and the people who matter most.

And that is what makes it unforgettable.

BUILDING MAINTENANCE

Nebraska’s winters can be cold, dreary, wet and way too long. Everything in our city gets affected by the change in weather, temp and pressure. With all the changes that winter brings, don’t let your building go unnoticed and neglected.

Lincoln business owners are dedicated to keeping their building in high working order. By protecting your building’s condition all year round, you can protect your investment for the years to come. Many Lincoln businesses are around to serve this purpose: to protect your workplace and your investment.

Reid Morrow

Keeping up with building maintenance can make a noticeable difference in how a business operates day to day. ServiceMaster PBM of Lincoln works with local businesses to make sure their facilities stay clean, well maintained, and ready for whatever the workday brings, often taking care of the details most people don’t see, but everyone feels. A clean, well-maintained space helps businesses run smoothly. It supports employee comfort, creates a better experience for customers, and leaves a strong first impression for anyone walking through the door. Floors, in particular, play a larger role than many realize when it comes to safety, longevity, and overall appearance.

ServiceMaster PBM of Lincoln focuses heavily on routine floor and carpet maintenance. Carpeted areas require regular deep cleaning to remove built-up soil that can’t be addressed with surface cleaning alone. Hard floors—both finished and unfinished—also need ongoing care. Floor finishes aren’t just for appearance; they help protect surfaces from wear, oils, and damage, and they need to be maintained and refinished on a regular schedule to stay effective. ServiceMaster PBM of Lincoln allows owners and teams to focus on their work, not the upkeep.

Cory Schlisner

Clean floors are more than just a visual perk — they’re a foundation for longevity, safety, and a positive environment. PureCare Carpet understands this principle deeply. With decades of experience caring for commercial and residential properties, PureCare emphasizes routine cleaning as a proactive strategy that preserves flooring investment long-term. By regularly removing dry dirt, debris, and grit before it embeds into fibers, PureCare helps extend carpet life and maintain appearance throughout heavy use cycles.

Skipping or delaying routine maintenance can accelerate wear and tear, leading to visible traffic patterns, crushed pile, and abrasion that shortens a carpet’s lifespan. PureCare’s experts also see how dust and allergens build up over time, particularly around air returns and high-traffic zones. A well-planned maintenance schedule helps prevent these issues before they become costly problems, a savings that becomes significant as material prices continue to rise. “Cleaning costs are minimal in comparison to replacing carpets,” PureCare professionals note, underscoring the value of proactive care.

Ceiling Cleaning

Your customers may not comment, but they’ve noticed the dust and dirt on your ceiling.

Seasonal challenges add another layer to flooring needs. Winter’s salt and melting snow can deteriorate entryway surfaces if not treated promptly, while summer dust can accumulate rapidly. PureCare’s annual maintenance plans account for these seasonal fluctuations, recommending targeted cleanings after holidays or large events to keep spaces looking their best. Beyond the technical benefits, wellmaintained flooring plays a role in workplace morale and public perception. First impressions matter, and consistently clean floors signal care and professionalism. For employees, a spotless environment supports pride in their workspace and reinforces a culture of quality. For clients and visitors, it reflects an organization that values every detail of its operations. With PureCare Carpet’s expert service, buildings stay healthier, safer, and more inviting — a testament to the power of proper maintenance.

Maintaining stone surfaces in buildings, whether floors or countertops, is essential to preserve their appearance and longevity. While damaged-looking stone might appear beyond repair, professional restoration can often bring it back to life, saving the expense of replacement. However, Lifetime Stone Restoration suggests performing regular maintenance of newly installed or recently restored stone surfaces, as it

Highly trafficked areas on stone floors benefit from periodic onestep polishing to prevent them from becoming worn and dull. According to Owner Don Mlnarik, “Stone has a natural beauty that ceramic or porcelain tiles do not have, but requires more routine maintenance to keep it looking beautiful.”

In bathrooms with stone countertops, preventing mineral deposits from water around faucets is crucial to avoid the development of a white haze. Additionally, some stone counters are sensitive to acidic substances present in hand soaps or sanitizers, leading to dulling. Timely restoration when signs of deterioration appear can prevent further damage to the stone. For ceramic tile and grout, regular cleaning is essential, and grout should be sealed periodically, typically every couple of years. Failure to seal or clean grout regularly can lead to stubborn stains that permanently discolor it. While there are methods to rectify stained grout, regular maintenance will consistently save costs in the long run, ensuring the surfaces remain attractive and durable.

Lifetime Stone Restoration understands that achieving clean, sparkling stone surfaces in your building isn’t a singlestep endeavor guaranteeing eternal pristine condition. Acknowledging the importance of regular upkeep to increase longevity and reduce overall costs, Lifetime Stone Restoration is committed to assisting with ongoing maintenance requirements.

For many property owners, the most valuable part of professional property management is peace of mind. At Greenleaf Commercial Real Estate, property management goes beyond day-to-day oversight and into long-term strategy. Their team manages both the physical operation of a property and the financial performance behind it, allowing owners to step back while knowing their investment is being actively cared for.

On the facility side, Greenleaf focuses on keeping buildings functional, maintained, and responsive to tenant needs. On the asset side, the attention shifts to the bigger picture, tracking performance, managing leases, monitoring expenses, and making informed decisions that support long-term value.

Budgets are built thoughtfully, financials are reviewed regularly, and owners stay informed without having to manage the details themselves.

Strong property management directly impacts tenant experience. When buildings are well run and issues are handled consistently, tenants are more likely to stay, reducing turnover and vacancy. That stability helps control costs and keeps properties competitive in the market. Over time, those small, steady decisions add up, protecting cash flow and strengthening the overall value of the asset.

For owners, working with a trusted team like Greenleaf means less guesswork and fewer surprises. It’s the confidence that comes from knowing both the day-to-day operations and the long-term health of the property are being handled with care, experience, and intention.

Nebraska weather doesn’t take it easy on buildings, and anyone who owns or manages a commercial space knows that maintenance isn’t something you can put off. Floors get worn, stone dulls, pipes freeze, and first impressions fade faster than we’d like. The difference between a building that simply exists and one that truly works for the people inside it often comes down to the care given behind the scenes.

SENIOR LIVING

With the aging demographic in Lincoln, the discussion on senior living is becoming one of quality of life, independence, and well-crafted support. Modern seniors are seeking solutions that enable them to stay engaged, comfortable, and assured to age in place or to relocate within a senior living facility. With so many alternatives at hand, families are increasingly faced with significant decision-making needs that demand functional advice as well as empathetic understanding.

A network of local business and professional people is emerging across Lincoln who are shaping these experiences. From in-home care and rehabilitation to accessibility solutions and senior living, each has a distinct purpose in supporting seniors through life’s later years. They, together, offer services with a focus on dignity, safety, and connection. It is through this series of experiences

and viewpoints that this narrative seeks to illustrate, in greater detail, the coming together of collaboration, care, and planning in support of aging well in our city through those most closely connected with seniors, its professionals, and their perspectives.

Finding the right place for seniors, one that balances community, comfort, and a touch of luxury can feel overwhelming and seem difficult. At The Waterford, luxury isn’t just about elegant furniture or high-end finishes. It’s about creating a home where comfort, care, and independence come together. Every resident receives attentive, individualized support that enhances

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daily life while honoring their personal choices. Respect, dignity, and relationship-driven caregiving aren’t just buzzwords here; they guide how staff connect with residents every day.

Life at Waterford is about more than care. Residents benefit from a thoughtful mix of wellness, social, and recreational opportunities designed to keep them active, engaged, and connected. From group activities and exercise programs to inviting dining and social spaces, every detail is meant to enrich both body and mind. Comfortable common areas and outdoor spaces provide places to relax, socialize, or enjoy quiet moments, while carefully designed amenities make daily life convenient and enjoyable.

Community at Waterford is built through shared experiences and meaningful connections, all while respecting each resident’s independence and personal rhythm. Individualized care plans ensure that everyone’s needs and preferences are met, and staff take time to build relationships that make residents feel valued and supported. Whether it’s joining in on activities, enjoying a quiet moment outdoors, or simply having a friendly conversation with staff or neighbors, life here is designed to be fulfilling, engaging, and comforting.

At Waterford, luxury isn’t just what you see, it is what you feel. It’s the peace of mind that comes from knowing your loved one is cared for, the joy of engaging in a vibrant community, and the comfort of a home that truly supports living life on your own terms.

Senior moving can be quite overwhelming. Emotions are high and there are so many unknowns. However T Square Movers can help with that. A senior move is rarely just about getting belongings from point A to point B. It’s often tied to a major life transition like downsizing, moving into senior living, or leaving a longtime family home. There’s usually a higher emotional component, more decision-making, and involvement from multiple family members. T Square Movers believe in clear and consistent communication to the whole family. They often communicate with several siblings who are making joint decisions while also consulting closely with their senior parents. These moves require more patience, clear communication, and a slower, more intentional approach where trust and transparency really matter.

A tip T Square has is to start planning earlier than you think you need to. Downsizing takes time, especially when items hold sentimental value. They recommend sorting in phases and clearly identifying what’s moving, what’s staying, and what will be donated or passed down to the family. It also helps to understand the layout and guidelines of the new living space ahead of time. Open communication is key, especially when multiple family members are involved. When everyone understands the plan and the scope of the move, the process is far less stressful for both the senior and their family.

T Square Movers take a full-service, people-first approach. In addition to moving, they offer tote rentals, packing supplies, and professional packing services, allowing them to handle the entire move from beginning to end if needed. Their estimation process is

very thorough, which helps families understand the full scope of the move before it happens. That clarity is especially important for senior moves where there are more moving parts and more people involved in decision-making. Their team is trained to slow down, explain the process, and treat each move with patience and respect. They do not rush senior moves. They focus on making seniors feel supported, organized, and manageable during such a major life transition. Families often sense something has changed long before they realize extra help is needed. Common signs that it may be time to consider in-home support include missed medications, difficulty with daily tasks like cooking or bathing, unexplained weight loss, increased forgetfulness, or changes in mood and behavior. Families may also notice their loved one becoming isolated, unsafe while driving, or struggling to keep up with household responsibilities. In many cases, in-home care provides the right balance of support while allowing seniors to remain independent in the comfort of their own home.

“At Visiting Angels, we understand that trust and compatibility are essential to successful care. That’s why we take a personalized approach to caregiver matching. We carefully assess each client’s physical needs, personality, routines, and preferences, then pair them with a caregiver whose skills and temperament align. Ongoing communication with both the client and family allows us to make adjustments as needed, ensuring a strong,

trusting relationship that benefits everyone involved,” Natalie Leon Owner and Executive Director of Visiting Angels said.

One common misconception about in-home senior care is that it is only needed for advanced medical conditions. While Visiting Angels does not provide skilled nursing services, many seniors benefit from non-medical support such as help with daily activities, companionship, and safety supervision long before medical care is required. Another misconception is that accepting help means losing independence. Inhome care actually helps seniors maintain independence by providing assistance only where needed, empowering them to continue living life on their own terms.

Visiting Angels is committed to compassionate, flexible care that supports seniors and their families. With personalized care plans and dedicated caregivers, we help make aging at home a safe, dignified, and positive experience.

Beyond preventing falls, ramps play a critical role in supporting independence by preserving freedom of movement and simplifying everyday routines. Being able to safely enter and exit the home allows seniors and individuals with mobility challenges to maintain control over their daily lives, whether that means attending appointments, visiting friends or simply enjoying fresh air. Caregivers and family members also benefit, as ramps significantly reduce the physical strain associated with assisting loved ones up and down steps, particularly during icy or snowy conditions common in Nebraska winters. This added safety helps prevent injuries for everyone involved while promoting confidence and peace of mind.

PVI Ramps are designed with versatility and convenience in mind. They are lightweight, durable and easy to install, making them suitable for both permanent installations and temporary needs. Their modular design allows for customization to fit a wide range of entryways, porches and exterior staircases, ensuring accessibility regardless of a home’s layout or structural challenges. This flexibility makes PVI Ramps a practical solution for homeowners seeking reliable access without major renovations. With safe and dependable entry points in place, seniors and individuals with mobility challenges can continue participating in social activities, running errands and staying engaged within their communities.

Accessibility solutions like PVI Ramps also play a vital role in supporting independence, which is closely connected to mental and emotional well-being. Maintaining the ability to move freely and safely can help reduce feelings of isolation, anxiety and frustration that often accompany mobility limitations, especially during long winter months when leaving the home may already feel daunting. Whether used seasonally or year-round, PVI’s accessible entry solutions help keep seniors safe, supported and empowered, while providing families with reassurance as they navigate through the rest of winter together.

With lower temperatures, preventing slips and falls becomes an even greater priority, particularly for older adults. Simple safety

practices such as keeping walkways clear of ice and snow, wearing non-slip footwear and using handrails or mobility aids can make a meaningful difference. Inside the home, entryways should remain dry and clutter-free, with non-skid mats placed near doors. When combined with reliable accessibility solutions like PVI Ramps, these precautions help create a safer, more accessible home environment throughout every season.

For many seniors, deciding to move into a retirement community marks a significant life transition. Leaving a longtime home, adjusting to new routines, and building new social circles can feel daunting. At Savannah Pines, that transition is thoughtfully guided, warmly supported, and designed to feel less like a move — and more like a natural next chapter.

From the moment new residents arrive, staff and neighbors help create an immediate sense of belonging. Friendly greetings in the hallway, open seating in the dining room, and daily community activities make it easy to strike up conversations and form new friendships. The dining room, in particular, serves as a social anchor. With restaurant-style service and flexible seating, residents choose where and with whom they dine, allowing relationships to develop naturally over shared meals.

Practical support also plays a key role in easing the transition. Weekly housekeeping, maintenance services, and scheduled transportation remove the burdens of home upkeep, giving residents freedom to focus on enjoying their day. On-site staff is available around the clock, providing reassurance for both residents and their families.

Chef-prepared meals served three times daily ensure nutrition remains a priority, while all-day dining options and snack stations offer comfort and convenience. Social calendars filled with classes, outings, and entertainment help new residents stay active and engaged from the very beginning.

Surrounded by peaceful landscaping and walking paths, Savannah Pines offers a welcoming environment where seniors can settle in comfortably, build new routines, and feel confident in their decision to embrace community living.

At Savannah Pines, the transition into senior living is not just supported. It’s celebrated.

Downsizing can feel overwhelming for seniors and their families, especially when it involves emotional attachments, financial concerns, and uncertainty about next steps.

The Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group of Nebraska Realty reduces stress by creating a clear, step-by-step plan and providing guidance early in the process. Through their Downsizing Club, they coach clients well before a move is necessary—helping them plan, sort, and make informed decisions at their own pace rather than during a crisis.

They also serve as advocates for their clients’ financial interests. Seniors are often presented with quick-sale options that prioritize speed over value. Their role is to educate families on all available

choices and represent them in a traditional sale when appropriate, so they can retain the equity they have worked hard to build. They do not purchase homes, they represent clients and help them sell in a way that supports their long-term well-being.

What sets the Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group apart is their role as educators and advocates, not just transaction facilitators. They prioritize clarity, protection, and long-term outcomes. The focus is on ensuring seniors and their families understand their options, feel supported throughout the process, and are represented in a way that safeguards both dignity and financial stability.

As a Senior Home Specialist, Alicia Chrastil of Nebraska Realty is deeply committed to helping seniors and their families navigate the often emotional and complex process of buying, selling, or downsizing a home. With a clear understanding that every senior’s situation is unique, Alicia provides personalized guidance and steady support at every step. Her approach is rooted in patience, empathy, and education, ensuring that seniors feel confident, informed, and respected as they make important housing decisions that impact their quality of life.

Families trust them because they help seniors make confident, wellinformed decisions, guiding them from overwhelmed to empowered with care, experience, and integrity.

Affordable, Smoke Free Living

Ages 55 and Older

The Lincoln Housing Authority (LHA) is another strong force fighting for the well-being and safety of our Lincoln seniors. LHA offers affordable housing for seniors in their independent apartment buildings and focuses on finding all the amenities a senior needs to live independently. LHA cannot make a determination whether someone can to live independently; it is strongly recommended to consider the individual’s needs and safety with a professional or a doctor. Home care is becoming ever more popular and LHA works hard to provide resources for seniors to live independently for as long as possible.

LHA also works to connect seniors with community programs designed to help support living transitions. Aging Partners offers a case manager for each resident in LHA’s senior apartments. The partnership with Aging Partners provides connection and support on-site to provide additional information, assistance, referral and collaborative efforts to provide resources to senior tenants. Aging Partners may also be able to help seniors with finding supportive care, such as light housekeeping, accessing community transportation, connecting those who are eligible with other community resources that are of assistance and pertinent to each individual’s need.

Each senior building also works closely with the Food Bank, providing a relationship to provide commodity delivery every other month to those who may qualify. Their Resident Services Specialists have

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strong networks within the community and work to provide enrichment activities, whether away from the apartment building on van trips or by allowing unique programs to enter the building to enhance their daily lives.

Dr. Casey of A Well Being here in Lincoln brings a mix of support from health coaching to physical therapy, right to the comfort of your home. No worrying about getting to appointments across town or figuring out transportation.

Dr. Casey believes seniors typically receive care at home or move into a care facility for two primary reasons: necessity and convenience. While most aging adults do not initially choose to need assistance, support often becomes essential to maintain safety, health, and independence. For those seeking to prevent injury or enhance quality of life, care services can also be a proactive choice rooted in convenience and wellness.

Home health care provides medically necessary services such as nursing, therapy, and social work, often covered by insurance to support recovery and treatment. Private home care offers nonmedical assistance with daily activities like dressing, bathing, and meal preparation, not typically covered by insurance. Separate from both are private-pay wellness services, including medical personal training, private physical therapy, and massage, which are not insurance-covered but help seniors maintain strength, mobility, and

independence. Dr. Casey believes these proactive services are most effective when introduced before injury or decline occurs.

A Well Being was founded on the belief that emotional and mental wellness are essential to healing. Healthcare should be simple with no paperwork hassles, surprise bills, insurance authorizations, or physician referrals for physical therapy. However Dr. Casey does take referals. Though Nebraska is a direct access state, meaning you do not have to see an MD first. But often if you are using insurance, they will require it. “If your condition does not improve or my comprehensive assessment reveals concern, I will refer to your PCP or specialist and collaborate accordiningly,” Dr. Casey said. With Dr. Casey practicing as a physical therapist, health coach, and yoga instructor, she brings an approach that includes behavioral strategies, breathwork, and meditation. Too often, traditional healthcare lacks the time needed for clients to be truly heard, yet emotional and mental wellness are often the greatest barriers to recovery. Through dedicated health coaching, Dr. Casey helps empower seniors to build autonomy, set realistic goals, and make lasting lifestyle changes by providing the support, motivation, and tools they need to succeed.

“A collaborative approach is a priority. Unlike clinics and large agencies, A Well Being consists of only me. You call, I answer. I can become the case manager for your healthcare, with medication management, physician collaboration, referrals if necessary, caregiver (family) training/education, and treatment at every severity of injury/illness from day of hospital discharge to wellness services. If I don’t know the answer, I will find someone who does,” Dr. Casey said.

The best part of care through A Well Being is Dr. Casey has over a decade of experience with complex medical conditions and training at Mayo Clinic. Dr. Casey has worked in every level of care ranging from the ICU to division I athletics at The University of Texas. So you will be sure to be in great hands.

When families decide it’s time for a senior loved one to receive additional support, the transition can feel emotional and overwhelming. With many senior living options available in Lincoln, finding the right fit often comes down to trust, comfort, and safety. At Salt Creek Senior Living, helping new residents settle in with confidence and ease is a top priority from day one.

Safety is at the heart of every decision, especially for incoming residents who are still becoming familiar with the campus, amenities, and support systems available to them. The team works carefully to balance independence with peace of mind, ensuring residents feel free to live on their own terms while knowing help is always close by. Families are reassured that their loved ones are encouraged to remain as independent as possible — while always staying safe.

Creating a true sense of “home” is just as important as providing care. Moving into senior living marks a new chapter, and many residents arrive with rich social lives, hobbies, and routines. The community’s goal is to bring those familiar comforts forward, helping residents continue the activities and connections that bring them joy.

Adjusting to assisted living is made easier through strong family involvement and peer support. Current residents help welcome newcomers by inviting them to meals, activities, and events, quickly turning unfamiliar surroundings into a friendly and supportive community.

Husker Rehab plays a vital role in helping seniors maintain independence, confidence, and quality of life through personalized rehabilitation and preventive therapy services. As individuals age, changes in strength, balance, mobility, and endurance can make everyday activities more challenging. Husker Rehab addresses these changes with a proactive, compassionate approach that empowers seniors to stay active and engaged in the lives they value most.

Rehabilitation services at Husker Rehab are designed to help seniors safely perform activities of daily living, such as dressing, cooking, cleaning, driving, and managing their homes. Through individualized treatment plans, therapists work to improve functional strength, coordination, and balance, reducing the risk of falls and injury. When needed, seniors are also trained to use assistive devices correctly, allowing them to move with greater safety and confidence while maintaining independence.

Preventive therapy is a key component of Husker Rehab’s philosophy of healthy aging. By addressing small issues before they become larger concerns, preventive therapy helps slow age-related decline and reduces the likelihood of chronic conditions or hospitalizations. Staying ahead of physical changes allows seniors to remain active in their communities, participate in social activities, and enjoy meaningful connections with friends and family. This proactive care not only supports physical well-being but can also help minimize future medical expenses.

Motivation and encouragement are central to the recovery process at Husker Rehab. Therapists take the time to understand each senior’s personal goals, whether that means returning to gardening, playing with grandchildren, traveling, or participating in group exercise programs. Therapy plans are tailored to these goals, making sessions purposeful, engaging, and rewarding. By celebrating progress and emphasizing achievable milestones, Husker Rehab helps seniors recognize their gains and stay motivated throughout their rehabilitation journey.

Through skilled care, individualized attention, and a commitment to long-term wellness, Husker Rehab supports seniors in maintaining independence, improving mobility, and continuing to live life with confidence and purpose.

Sumner Place in Lincoln offers several levels of care, making it easier for families to find the right fit without starting over each time a senior’s needs change. Once a resident is settled, they don’t have to uproot their life again to receive a different type of service. Their care options range from skilled nursing and long-term care to short-term rehabilitation for those recovering from surgery or illness, along with dedicated memory care for seniors living with Alzheimer’s

A Well Being Mobile Physical Therapy

Injury Prevention

Balance and functional mobility assessment

Chronic condition management

Rehabilitation

Health coaching Yoga

LEARN MORE awellbeingpt.org caseybogenrief@a-well-being.org (402) 217-2722

or other forms of dementia. This range of services allows seniors to receive the right level of support while remaining in a familiar and trusted community.

Each of us has our own way about us — the routines, preferences, and personalities that make us unique. Seniors deserve to continue living with independence, respect, and dignity for as long as possible. Through communities like Sumner Place and the Vetter Senior Living network, families have access to living and care options that adapt as needs evolve, supporting both quality of life and peace of mind.

Senior care is rarely a single decision. It is an ongoing process shaped by changing health, comfort, and personal preference. What makes transitions easier is partnership between care providers, families, and seniors themselves.

A senior may begin experiencing difficulty navigating the home safely. This can range from feeling unsteady in the shower or struggling to rise from a chair to greater challenges with steps and stairs. With practical solutions such as grab bars, lift-chair recliners, lowered shower entries, and stairlifts, 101 Mobility helps address early signs

of mobility concerns before they become larger safety issues.

Much of what 101 Mobility provides centers on independence, dignity, and safety. Their team believes it is far better to be proactive in addressing mobility challenges than to wait for an accident or injury to occur.

The process begins with gathering preliminary information, followed by a free in-home consultation. During this visit, a Mobility Consultant takes time to look, listen, and learn about the client’s specific needs. From there, they recommend solutions and products best suited to the customer’s space, lifestyle, and budget.

Cost is often a concern for families, and 101 Mobility works to keep services accessible. The company now offers financing options that allow equipment to be installed immediately with flexible payment terms.

101 Mobility also partners with home health agencies, in-home nursing services, eldercare attorneys, emergency call system providers, senior-focused realtors, housing specialists, and rehabilitation facilities. These partnerships help ensure clients receive well-rounded support beyond mobility equipment alone.

As the industry evolves, so do the solutions. 101 Mobility has recently partnered with a company offering lift technology that allows paraplegic individuals to transfer independently between bed and wheelchair. In the coming weeks, the company will also introduce new AI-supported home safety assessments that identify fall risks and recommend improvements. In-home elevators are also becoming an increasingly popular and cost-effective way for seniors to safely access all levels of their homes.

At Legacy Retirement Communities they understand that care needs don’t stay the same. Sometimes they shift gradually, and sometimes they change very quickly.

In January, they had the privilege of visiting with a resident who is celebrating her 14th year with them. Over time, Betty’s needs and wishes have evolved—just as life does for all of us. Her journey is a reminder that change is a natural part of aging, and the role of care givers is to adapt right alongside the people they serve.

When there is a sudden change in health, the care team is here to help navigate what comes next—offering hands-on support, guidance, and connection to additional services when needed.

Their goal is always to provide the right level of support while allowing residents to continue living in a way that feels like them. That may look like assistance with daily routines, medication support, flexible meal options, or added nursing services when appropriate. At the heart of everything they do is a commitment to making life easier and safer, while honoring independence, dignity, and choice

Moving is a big step, and it often comes with stress and a wide range of emotions. They’re mindful of that, and work intentionally to make those first days feel more comfortable, through a warm welcome, a helpful routine and easy opportunities to connect. Shared meals,

familiar faces, and simple activities can go a long way in helping someone feel at home.

Community looks different for each person. Some residents enjoy full calendars with outings, groups, and events, while others find comfort in quieter days, smaller moments, or time spent at home. At Legacy Retirement Communities, they offer a range of options—many inspired and shaped by the residents—so everyone can engage in ways that feel right to them.

And for anyone who’s exploring what the next chapter could look like, they’re always here to help you through that journey. Never hesitate to reach out, even if you’re simply gathering information or looking for a little peace of mind.

Assisted living is far from being simply a single decision that needs to be made. It is rather a process that constantly evolves based on varying needs and preferences of individuals. Through the example of these experts in the Lincoln region, it is evident that aging successfully is based on the principles of choice, preparation, and the availability of trusted resources in the community in which individuals reside.

One thing that all these voices seem to convey is the importance of partnership between providers, families, and seniors. Where care is personalized and communication is open, transitions are less daunting and more empowering. As Lincoln grows as a community, so will its dedication to senior care that is reflective and community-minded. With the right structures in place to support them, senior adults will be able to move ahead with confidence and know that they are not alone but among those who are there to assist them in living life to the fullest.