Strictly Business Lincoln October 2026

STRICTLY-BUSINESS.COM

LINCOLN • OCTOBER 2026

FEATURE STORIES

• HOLIDAY PLANNING • HOLISTIC HEALTH • RESELL REMODEL

CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS

• ALLO BUSINESS • PARSE SOFTWARE • SALT CREEK SENIOR LIVING • SLIM CHICKENS • SUN VALLEY LANES • WEST GATE BANK

SPECIAL FEATURE

• WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES BRIANNA BABB Venue 5 Twenty-Two

JASON HOWE K2 Holistic Health

JONI CRUMRINE Specially For You

JODEE LEADER Downtown Lincoln Assocation

BROOKE CARLSON Disrupting Traffick

DOUG FITZGERALD Lincoln Coin & Bullion

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OCTOBER 2026 Strictly Business

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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

A Paige From My Notebook... October is always a busy month at Strictly Business, and this issue is packed with opportunities to connect with some of the businesses and people making a difference in our community.

businesses. The directory will give readers an easy way to find, learn about and connect with women-owned businesses in our community throughout the year. And if you missed the opportunity to be included in the WomenOwned Business feature, we can still get your business into the new online directory. It is another way for us to help women-owned businesses increase their visibility and stay connected with potential customers long after this month’s issue is published.

This month, we are highlighting Holistic Health, an area that continues to grow as more people look for ways to improve “Our goal has always been simple: their overall health and well-being. We are also kicking off our Holiday connect great local businesses with Series, helping readers discover local the people who need them.” businesses, services, gift ideas and resources as we head into the busiest shopping and celebration season of the year. For homeowners, be sure to check out our Resell/Remodel Story, featuring local experts and ideas to help you make smart improvements to your home. Whether you are preparing to sell or simply want to make your home more functional and attractive, you will find ways to improve your property and potentially increase the value of your home. Another feature I am especially excited about is our Women-Owned Business Story, recognizing the women entrepreneurs and business leaders who are building companies, creating jobs and strengthening our local business community. Along with this year’s Women-Owned Business feature, we are also launching a new online directory specifically for women-owned

At Strictly Business, our goal has always been to connect great local businesses with the people who need them. Through our magazine, our website, our stories and now our new Women-Owned Business Directory, we are continuing to create more ways for those connections to happen.

Most importantly, thank you to our readers and advertisers. Our readers continue to support the local businesses featured in these pages, and our advertisers make it possible for us to keep sharing the stories, people and businesses that make our community stronger. We truly appreciate your continued support of Strictly Business. If you are a woman business owner and would like to be included in our new directory, reach out to our team. We would love to get your business connected.Business feature, we can still get your business into the new online directory. It is another way for us to help womenowned businesses increase their visibility and stay connected with potential customers long after this month’s issue is published. Paige Zutavern, President

CONTENTS

NEWS 4 Business 26 Personnel 33 Nonprofit

ASK THE EXPERT 19 On-Point Insurance

STAR CITY SIX 20 Star City Six

COLUMNS 51 53 55 57

Friends for Lunch/Drinks Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Downtown Lincoln Association Lincoln Independent Business Association

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SPOTLIGHTS 52 54 56 58 60 69

ALLO Business PARSE Software Sun Valley Lanes Salt Creek Senior Living Slim Chickens West Gate Bank

FEATURE STORIES 62 70 73 77

Holiday Planning Holistic Health Resell Remodel Women Owned Businesses

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

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ABOUT THE COVER New Start Cleaning: More Than Cleaning, Creating Opportunities and Raising the Standard

PRODUCTION TEAM: Art Director: Christy Irvin – ArtDirector@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Editor: Macey Wahl – Editor@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Executive Assistant: Kaitlyn Stara – Office@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Copywriters: Haylee W, Joy L & Emma B Social Media Specialist: Joselyn M SALES TEAM: President/Sales Paige Zutavern – Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Publisher/Founder/Accounting Shayne Zutavern – SZutavern@Yahoo.com #PrintProudDigitalSmart

As a Latina-owned business, community has always been at the heart of everything we do. We believe success is measured not only by business growth but also by the lives we touch. Supporting local organizations, mentoring entrepreneurs and creating opportunities for others remain central to our mission. As we continue to grow, our commitment remains unchanged: to provide dependable service, exceed expectations, and treat every home and business as if it were our own. We know inviting someone into your space requires trust, and we never take that responsibility lightly. We are incredibly grateful to our clients, referral partners, and community for being part of this journey. Your support has made our growth possible, and we look forward to building new relationships throughout Omaha while continuing to serve Lincoln with the same passion and dedication that have defined New Start Cleaning from the very beginning. Photo and cover photo by Rebecca Marie Photography

What started as a small cleaning company with a big dream has grown into one of Nebraska’s trusted cleaning ser vice providers. At New Start Cleaning, our mission has always been about more than spotless homes and businesses, it’s about creating opportunities, building lasting relationships, and making a positive impact in the communities we serve. We are proud to announce an exciting milestone in our journey: New Start Cleaning is now expanding into the Omaha metro area. After years of serving Lincoln with exceptional residential and commercial cleaning services, we’re excited to bring our award-winning team, proven systems and commitment to excellence to homeowners throughout Omaha. Our services include recurring residential cleaning, deep cleaning, move-in and moveout cleaning, post-construction cleaning, apartment turnovers and customized cleaning solutions designed to meet each client’s unique needs. We deliver consistent, highquality service with professionalism and care. Behind every successful clean is an incredible team. At New Start Cleaning, we believe our people are our greatest asset. We are committed to creating career opportunities, investing in leadership development and fostering a workplace culture built on respect, integrity, teamwork, and excellence. Many of our team members have grown into leadership positions, and we are proud to empower individuals who are passionate about serving others while building meaningful careers.

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OCTOBER 2026 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS UNICO Group Announces Acquisition of Specially For You Celebrates More Than 40 Years Under New Ownership Oracle Insurance Agency UNICO Group, a leading independent insurance brokerage headquartered in Nebraska, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Oracle Insurance Agency, Inc., effective July 9, 2026. Based in Omaha, Nebraska, Oracle Insurance Agency has built a strong reputation as a relationshipdriven agency specializing in personal insurance and Private Client solutions. The acquisition brings together two organizations that share a commitment to client-focused service, trusted relationships and long-term partnership. By combining Oracle’s expertise in personal lines and Private Client services with UNICO’s broader resources and capabilities, clients will benefit from expanded solutions while continuing to receive the personalized service they have come to expect. “Oracle has built an outstanding reputation by putting clients first and fostering long-lasting relationships,” said Shane Ideus, President of UNICO. “Their approach aligns closely with our values and culture. We are excited to welcome the team to UNICO and look forward to the opportunities this partnership creates for our clients, team members, and communities.” Founded in 2010 by Wil and Denise Stephany, Oracle Insurance Agency has grown into a trusted advisor for individuals, families and businesses throughout the region. The agency has established strong carrier relationships and developed a niche expertise in Private Client insurance solutions, helping clients protect what matters most through a consultative and relationship-focused approach. “We have always believed that insurance is about relationships, trust, and serving others well,” said Wil Stephany. “As we considered the future of Oracle, it was important to find a partner who shared those beliefs. UNICO’s culture, values, and vision make this a natural fit, and we are confident our clients and team members will benefit from this partnership for years to come.” Through the acquisition, Oracle clients will gain access to UNICO’s expanded resources, broader expertise, and enhanced capabilities across property and casualty insurance, employee benefits, risk management, and business solutions. Team members will also benefit from additional opportunities for professional growth and development within the larger organization. The partnership reflects a strong alignment between the organizations’ values and missions, with both companies emphasizing trust, professionalism, collaboration, and meaningful client relationships. Together, we are positioned to continue delivering exceptional service while expanding their collective impact throughout the communities they serve. About UNICO Group UNICO Group is a client-focused insurance broker headquartered in Nebraska. We offer a consultative and relational approach to customized solutions for clients across the nation. Our commitment to trust, professionalism, and teamwork drives everything we do. For more information, call (402) 434-7200 or visit unicogroup.com. 4 Strictly Business OCTOBER 2026

Specially For You, a woman-owned advertising specialties and promotional products business with more than 40 years of history, is beginning a new chapter under Specially For the ownership of Joni Crumrine, effective You March 1, 2026. “I am incredibly proud to carry on a business with more than 40 years of history,” said Crumrine. “I’m excited about this new chapter and look forward to building on the strong foundation that has been established while continuing to provide the personal service our customers value.” Specially For You serves customers throughout Nebraska and across the United States, offering promotional products including branded apparel, drinkware, trade-show giveaways, recognition items, corporate gifts and more. Specially For You focuses on personalized service and helping customers find products that fit their vision, needs and budget. “We are grateful to the customers who have supported us for over the past 40-plus years,” said Crumrine. “We look forward to serving our existing customers and welcoming new customers for many years to come.” For more information, please visit their website at specially4youinc. com, or call (402) 489-4204.

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Slim Chickens Celebrates New Location with Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Mid-West Slim’s LLC, Franchise owners Bill & Stacie Hooks, opened their third Slim Chickens restaurant in Lincoln, NE on Tuesday, September 15th. They celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and local dignitaries. The restaurant, located at 2740 N. 83rd Street, will be the newest addition to the Slim Chickens franchise located on the North side of Lincoln, near the intersection of 84th and Adams. Slim Chicken’s mission is to make the best hand-breaded chicken tenders using only the freshest ingredients, served in a friendly atmosphere where guests can relax and feel at home. Our timetested recipe has become a household favorite, locking in flavor with our southern-style buttermilk marinade, and lightly breaded by hand with every order. The Slims menu features fried or grilled chicken tenders, wings, salads, wraps, sandwiches, chicken & waffles, southern sides, and our famous jar desserts. The Slims menu also features some non-traditional sides including Fried Okra, Fried Pickles, Fried Mushrooms and a variety of flavored iced teas! Available for Dine In, Drive-Thru, or Delivery via online ordering, Slim Chickens offers a lot for their guests to choose from. Mid-West Slims is a local franchisee of Slim Chickens and a proud member of the Lincoln community. The organization strives to give back to the community by being a partner with local organizations and non-profits. Organizations can visit the Slim Chickens website and learn more about fundraising opportunities at slimchickens.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Lincoln Stars Open New Partnership Opportunities for 2026–27 Season

The Lincoln Stars are excited to announce that partnership opportunities for the 2026–27 season are now available, giving local and regional businesses the opportunity to expand their brand reach, connect with new audiences and drive sales through the Stars. With a top-four attendance in the USHL, thousands of fans attend games at the Ice Box. This gives your business or organization an opportunity to grow your social media and digital presence, while offering your brand more visibility to thousands of people weekly. Available opportunities include in-arena signage, player branding, in-game elements and activations, social media sponsorships and broadcast opportunities. Partnerships can be customized to help businesses achieve their specific marketing and sales goals. Businesses interested in learning more about available partnership opportunities for the 2026–27 season are encouraged to contact Landon Caldwell at landon@lincolnstars.com. About the Lincoln Stars The Lincoln Stars are members of the United States Hockey League (USHL), the nation’s premier junior hockey league. The Stars play their home games at the Ice Box in Lincoln, Nebraska, and are committed to providing high-level hockey, affordable family entertainment, and meaningful community engagement throughout the Lincoln area. Visit lincolnstars.com.

HazToGo Business Waste Collection Event Announced for November 19th The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department, through its HazToGo program, has partnered with a federally licensed contractor to provide periodic collection of business-generated hazardous waste at volume pricing. The next event will be Thursday, Nov. 19. You must have an appointment to participate in this event. This program reduces barriers for businesses to properly manage their hazardous waste. HazToGo bridges the gap for businesses to work with a hazardous waste contractor and access waste disposal at reduced costs. Businesses that generate low volumes of regulated hazardous wastes such as medical offices, dental offices, print shops, auto shops, school systems, general contractors, non-profits, painters, churches, childcare centers and home occupations may find this event helpful for managing their waste. Examples of wastes that are accepted include: Aerosols, corrosives, pesticides, flammable solids or liquids, adhesives, asbestos, mercury, poisons, paint, solvents, cylinders, oxidizers, photo fluids, PCB ballasts and mineral spirits. Please note radioactive materials, explosives and biohazards/infectious waste are NOT accepted. If you are a business in Lancaster County and want to take advantage of this program, contact the event coordinator today: (402) 441-8002 or spwaste@lincoln.ne.gov.

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NOW OPEN!

84th and Adams Dine In Drive-Thru Online Ordering

3 Convenient Lincoln Locations 84th & Adams 16th & Pine Lake 84th & Old Cheney OCTOBER 2026 Strictly Business

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THANK YOU

to these community-minded businesses who have chosen to be United in Something Bigger through the United Way/CHAD (Combined Health Agencies Drive) Campaign by loaning personnel or providing sponsorship for the Loaned Executive program.

2026 Loaned Executives

Rod Arndt, First Interstate Bank Steve Stueck, Union Bank & Trust Wade Walkenhorst, Cornhusker Bank

Loaned Executive Sponsors Assurity Bryan Health Cada, Jewson and Bryant Equity Bank NAI FMA Realty Five Points Bank

Scan this QR code to let us know you’d like to run a workplace giving campaign. We’d love to help!

UNITED IN SOMETHING

BIGGER Lincoln and Lancaster County

402.441.7700 | unitedwaylincoln.org 6

Strictly Business OCTOBER 2026

BUSINESS NEWS SpringPad Opens Coworking and Warehouse Space in South Lincoln

SpringPad, a new coworking and warehouse facility at 1301 Garret Lane, is now open in south Lincoln, offering private offices, meeting rooms and secure warehouse storage at a single address. The space was built for freelancers, remote workers, independent professionals and small companies that have outgrown a home office but are not ready to sign a commercial lease. Members choose from furnished and unfurnished private offices, mezzanine suites, dedicated desks and Hot Desks, with four meeting rooms available for hosting clients and teams. SpringPad also offers private, secured warehouse bays, a pairing rarely available alongside coworking in the Lincoln market. Businesses storing inventory, equipment or records can keep them at the same address where they work, rather than driving across town to a storage unit. Additional amenities include a front desk staffed on weekdays, a full kitchen, an outdoor patio, and virtual office and business address plans for companies that need a professional presence without dedicated space. Agreements are available month to month, or on six and twelve month terms. SpringPad is locally owned and operated. Tours are available by appointment. To schedule one, visit springpadconnect.com or call (402) 902-5357. SpringPad is located at 1301 Garret Lane, Lincoln, NE 68512.

Keeping Nebraska Events Connected with ALLO Nebraska’s festivals, fairs, concerts, and community events bring thousands of people together and increasingly rely on technology to keep business operations moving. For vendors and event organizers, connectivity supports everything from point-of-sale transactions and digital ticketing to staff communications, cloud-based systems, and event operations. A reliable connection can be the difference between a smooth event and a frustrating experience for businesses and attendees alike. ALLO Business brings that connectivity outdoors with temporary wireless solutions designed for events throughout Nebraska. Our teams can design, deploy, monitor, and support temporary networks from setup through teardown. In Lincoln, ALLO has provided outdoor Wi-Fi for the Telegraph Concert Series for approximately five years. The weekly summer concert draws 600–800 attendees while supporting local bands, food vendors, breweries, neighboring businesses, and community partners. ALLO’s network helps vendors process payments, organizers coordinate operations, and performers stay connected. As Nebraska communities continue to host events that drive local business and economic activity, dependable connectivity is becoming an essential part of the infrastructure behind them. For event organizers in Lincoln, Omaha, and communities across ALLO’s fiber footprint, ALLO Business provides the technology and local expertise to help keep businesses connected—wherever the event takes place. Planning your next event? See how ALLO Business can help keep your vendors, staff, and operations connected. Visit AlloBusiness.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS On Point Insurance to Host Zoom Medicare Don’t Accidentally Grow, Opportunities with Enrollment Seminars October 16th and Leadership Harbor October 22nd Most of us have goals for On Point Insurance is excited to host a Zoom event open to the public on October 16th and October 22nd. The event is a Medicare Part D enrollment seminar, designed to provide guidance for those who are already on or considering Medicare and also need a Prescription Drug Plan. The seminar will be from 11 a.m.-noon on October 16th and from 6-7 p.m. on October 22nd with On Point Agents. They will be hosting two other Part D events in October at local libraries that will be open to both their clients and the general public. Please visit their website at insuranceonpoint.com or their Facebook page for times and locations. Please visit insuranceonpoint.com to submit a query, or email them at info@insuranceonpoint.com to pre-register and get their enrollment guidelines.

Waterford at Wilderness Hills Celebrates 14 Years of Compassionate Memory Care in Lincoln

ourselves and our teams, yet busy schedules can quietly push growth to the bottom of the list. The challenge is that experience alone does not guarantee growth. If we want better communication, stronger leadership, healthier culture and greater confidence, we must become intentional about developing them. Live2Lead LNK is an easy way to begin. In one energizing day, you and your team can hear fresh ideas, gain practical tools and create conversations that continue long after the event. Ready to go deeper? Growing With Purpose gives ladies a community for intentional personal development, while Tacking to Success offers gentlemen a place to strengthen their leadership and relationships. Leadership days and mastermind groups help participants identify an ideal outcome, recognize what may be standing in the way and choose practical steps that move them forward. You do not need to have the entire journey mapped out before you begin. You simply need to choose growth on purpose and take the next step. Explore upcoming opportunities at leadershipharbor/events.

T h e Wa t e r f o r d a t Wilderness Hills is proud to celebrate 14 years of serving individuals and families in Lincoln through specialized Alzheimer’s and memory care. Since opening its doors in 2012, Waterford Wilderness Hills has been dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized care for those living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other forms of memory loss. Located at 8939 Keystone Drive in Lincoln, it was created to offer families more than a safe and secure place for their loved one, it was created to provide a place that truly feels like home. The community understands that memory loss affects each person and family differently, and its care team works to support the unique needs, personality, history, and preferences of every resident. Wilderness Hills Memory Care offers a secure, home-like environment with 24-hour care, a high staff-to-resident ratio, individualized care plans, licensed care team support, family-style dining, three homecooked meals each day, life-enrichment activities, and personalized assistance. The community also features a secured patio, courtyard, and walking path designed to allow residents opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in a safe and comfortable environment.

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As Wilderness Hills celebrates its 14th anniversary, the Waterford Communities looks forward to continuing its mission of providing a safe, supportive, and compassionate home for individuals living with memory loss and the families who love them. For more information about the Waterford Wilderness Hills Memory Care, to schedule a tour, or to learn more about available services, visit thewaterford.net or call (402) 421-8105. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS NEWS Morrow Collision Center Celebrates 5th Spirit of America FCU Hosts Children’s Miracle Annual Indoor Trunk-or-Treat Network Raffle on October 30 Morrow Collision Center is excited to welcome the Lincoln community back for its 5th Annual Indoor Trunk-or-Treat on Friday, October 23. What began as a fun way to bring local families and businesses together has grown into one of Morrow Collision Center’s favorite community traditions. Each year, local businesses and organizations help transform the collision centers into an indoor Halloween experience, welcoming thousands of area families for a safe, weather-proof evening of trick-or-treating. The event will once again take place at Morrow Collision Center’s Northeast and Southwest Lincoln locations. From 5:30–6 p.m., an Inclusive Experience for Sensory-Sensitive Guests will provide a quieter, less crowded opportunity to participate. General Trunk-orTreat hours will follow from 6–8 p.m. “Five years later, seeing thousands of families walk through our shops and so many Lincoln businesses come together to make it possible is what makes this event so special,” said Regina Hampton, Marketing Director. The event is free and open to the community. For more information, please visit morrowcollision.com.

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Spirit of America FCU is inviting the community to take part in an upcoming raffle benefiting Children’s Miracle Network, with proceeds supporting pediatric health care for children and families in need. The drawing will be held Oct. 30, and winners will be notified Nov. 2. Tickets are $1 each or six for $5 and may be purchased at Spirit of America FCU, 325 N. 52nd St. in Lincoln. “We are proud to support Children’s Miracle Network and the important care it helps provide for children and families,” said Cheryl Wiemer, President. “This raffle is a simple way for our members and neighbors to come together, have fun and make a meaningful difference.” Prizes include two tickets to the Nebraska vs. Ohio State football game on Nov. 21, a Cuisinart 3-in-1 pizza oven with a $50 Hy-Vee gift card, and a Matt Rhule autographed football. This year marks 40 years of credit unions joining together through Credit Unions for Kids and Children’s Miracle Network to help support children’s health care. The raffle offers local residents a meaningful way to contribute while taking part in a community fundraising tradition. For more information, please visit spiritofamericafcu.org.

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BUSINESS NEWS T Square Movers Celebrates New Location Sun Valley Lanes & Games Offers Husker and IOMI Certification Watch Party Rates Save the date: T Square Movers extends an invitation to a ribbon cutting celebrating their new location on Oct. 9. The ribbon cutting will be at 3601 S 6th St, Ste A in Lincoln and will start at 12 p.m. They are excited about their new location! T Square Movers has also become the first IOMI Certified Office Mover® in Nebraska. This means the T Square Movers team has learned the best practice methods to minimize risk of damage to both furniture and the old and new space. They are also familiar with an estimating formula that allows moves to finish on time for the quoted price. You are in good hands with T Square Movers. For more information on T Square Movers, please visit their website at tsquaremovers.com.

Gary Michaels Clothiers Celebrates 43 Years! Gary Michaels Clothiers is celebrating 43 years of business with an Anniversary Sale, starting Oct. 15 and runs through Saturday, Oct 24. Their entire stock of new fall inventory will be reduced 20%-43% OFF which includes suits, sports coats, outerwear, sportswear, footwear and accessories. Gary Michaels Clothiers was founded by Gary Novotny and Michael Nevrivy in Hastings, Nebraska in 1983. The Lincoln store opened in 1993 in Williamsburg Village and the current location is in Village Gardens, 5720 Hidcote Drive. Nathen Rutt is currently the owner and has been part of the Gary Michaels team for 33 years. Gary Michaels Clothiers has been “Nebraska’s Leader in Fine Gentlemen’s Apparel” for the past 43 years specializing in tailored clothing, furnishings, sportswear, outerwear, footwear, and accessories. They also offer a full line of custom-made to measure clothing from the United States, Canada, and Italy. For more information, visit garymichaels.com, call (402) 423-7848 or email Nate Rutt at nate@garymichaels.com.

Available during most Husker Football games, Sun Valley Lanes & Games is offering Watch Parties with unlimited bowling, laser tag and Lucky Putt, starting at $69.95 per lane, up to six people per lane. The Husker football games will be shown on the Neoverse Wall at Sun Valley Lanes & Games. Opened in 1977, Sun Valley Lanes and Games has quickly become a go-to destination in Lincoln for food, fun and friendly competition. Just minutes from downtown, Sun Valley offers something for all ages, whether you’re looking for a night out, a family outing or the perfect spot to host an event. At the heart of the action is bowling, including both traditional lanes and the world’s first installation of Hyperbowling, an innovative twist that combines arcade-style game play with interactive lanes. It’s easy to learn, fun for everyone and unlike anything else in the world of bowling. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Guests can also enjoy laser tag, Lucky Putt mini golf, corn hole, sand volleyball and a full arcade. When it’s time to refuel, the bar and grill serves a wide variety of mouth-watering food, tap and packaged beers, specialty cocktails and wine. Reserve your spot today at sunvalleylanes.com.

Rose Cat Coffee Presents Their Fall Flavors Menu This October, warm your soul with some classic autumnal flavors at Rose Cat Coffee! Some fan favorite drink flavors include butterscotch, banana bread, caramel apple, apple cider and the wildly popular pumpkin spice. Additionally, you can add pumpkin cream cheese cold foam to any drink for just $.75! Come warm yourself with a fall-flavored drink under the colorful leaves. About Rose Cat Coffee Co. Rose Cat Coffee Co. is a coffee shop based in Lincoln with the mission to provide meaningful work experience and inclusive employment opportunities to individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Visiting Rose Cat Coffee is visiting a place of community, belonging and joy. For more information, please visit their website at rosecatcoffee.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS NEWS $160M Ag Research Facility Highlights Elite Referral Network Announces October Lincoln’s Growing Role in the Midwest Events in Lincoln A recent $37 million federal investment is helping advance a planned $160 million USDA agricultural research facility at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Innovation Campus, putting a spotlight on Lincoln and the Midwest’s growing role in the future of agriculture. The Nebraska Innovation Campus will house the National Center for Resilient and Regenerative Precision Agriculture facility and will focus on precision agriculture, sustainable production and climate resilience, adding to a growing agricultural innovation ecosystem in Lincoln. That ecosystem is getting a broader regional push through the AgWorks Corridor, an 11-county, bi-state initiative launched by Lincoln and Omaha to attract and grow companies across ag-tech, animal health, food processing, agricultural equipment manufacturing and industrial bioprocessing. The corridor represents 700+ companies and 37,000+ employees across these industries, with an industry concentration 66% higher than the national average. Together, the region’s research institutions, agricultural companies and producers are creating an ecosystem where new technologies can move from research and development to commercialization. For more information, visit agworkscorridor.com.

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Elite Referral Network (ERN) will host several special events in Lincoln during October, including ribbon cuttings, a charitable chili cook-off and an expanded 4th Wednesday gathering featuring keynote speaker Michael King. On Friday, October 9 at 12:30 p.m., ERN will celebrate T-Square Movers, 3601 S. 6th St., Ste. A, with a ribbon cutting. During the event, the Better Business Bureau will present owner and ERN President Ashley Tobias and T-Square Movers with the BBB Torch Award for Ethics. ERN’s R.I.S.K.Y. Group will host its 2nd Annual Chili Cook-Off during Friday Afternoon Club on October 16 from 4–6 p.m. at the Simply Home Builders Parade Home, 2537 S. 102nd St. Proceeds will benefit Connected Forever, with the R.I.S.K.Y. Group matching funds raised. On Wednesday, October 28 from 6–8:30 p.m., ERN will welcome keynote speaker and executive coach Michael King to Talon Room, 230 N. 12th St., Ste. 1. King is founder of Teams.Coach and is known for combining leadership strategy, cinematic film and live saxophone performance. The month concludes with an October 29 ribbon cutting at 1 p.m. for A Cup of Happiness, 2702 South St., owned by ERN member Terrickeo Watson and his wife. Learn more at elitereferralnetwork.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS The Nook and Parlor Opens in Downtown Lincoln as a Flexible Gathering Space The Nook and Parlor, a community gathering space operated by Escape Lincoln, held its grand opening Friday, Sept. 18, at 815 O Street, Suite 100. The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce hosted the 11:30 a.m. ribboncutting, with Becca Fowler, Director of Membership and Investor Development. About 35 people attended the ceremony, and another 20 to 25 stopped in throughout the day to see the space. Guests received complimentary drinks at the ceremony, and the day continued with an open house from noon to 4 p.m. and an evening celebration from 4 to 9 p.m. The Nook and Parlor is designed to be flexible. Visitors can settle in for a quiet afternoon, order a mocktail, browse a small shop of book-centric merchandise and other nerdy must-haves, or rent the space for their own gatherings. “This space is meant for bringing people together. At its core, it’s simply about gathering. It’s about reconnecting, getting off our phones, and being in-person with the people we know and love,” said Anh McClure, co-creator of Escape Lincoln and The Nook and Parlor. Fridays and Saturdays, 5 to 10 p.m. - open for gathering, mocktails, and shopping Mondays and Tuesdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. - body doubling days, when adults can co-work alongside others and focus on deep work in a quiet, cozy setting Rentals - available for private gatherings For more information, visit thenookandparlor.com.

Well-Connected

Optimistic

Communicative High Level

Experienced

4th Annual Chase’s Drive to Survive at Western National Bank Western National Bank is excited to be hosting the 4th Annual Chase’s Drive to Survive Blood Drive this fall along with the Lavelle Family. Nebraska Community Blood Bank will have a bus at the Lincoln Branch (5931 S 58th St. G, Lincoln, NE 68516) from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, October 13th and two more buses downtown outside of the Hudl HQ (600 P Street, Lincoln, NE 68508) to allow convenience for people in other areas of Lincoln and surrounding areas. This is an exciting event for the community to support Western National Bank. The drive honors Chase Lavelle, son of Vice President, David Lavelle and grandson of CEO, Brian Lavelle. When Chase was 4-months old he was admitted to Children’s Hospital of Omaha with E. coli poisoning and suffered complete kidney failure. Blood transfusions made a tremendous impact on his ability to fight his battle. He is now a healthy 6-year-old that loves to keep up with his brothers and baby sister. Giving blood is a small-time commitment and it will help save a life, like Chase’s, here in Nebraska. Please consider signing up to participate in this drive. To sign up visit bit.ly/chasesdrivetosurvive2026. If you’re not local, you are still encouraged to donate blood on this day. Visit your local Nebraska Community Blood Bank location and use code “Chase” to donate, and you’ll be counted towards the total. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS NEWS The Back Nine Lincoln South Introduces New CNA Learning Hub Celebrates 1 Year Anniversary Memberships This Fall The Back Nine Lincoln South is excited to have introduced 3 new memberships for the fall/winter/cold weather season. They now offer: • 6 month discounted Par membership (1 hour tee times, 1 guest, 24/7 access, discounted lessons, up to 15 visits per month) • 6 month discounted Birdie membership (unlimited 2 hour tee times, 24/7 access, up to 3 free guests private bay access, discounted leagues and tournaments, discounted lessons) • 6 month Eagle membership: 2 memberships in one! Same as Birdie but 3 hour tee times and up to 4 guests free for EACH account manager. Additionally, the Back Nine has created two new lesson and playing memberships. • PAR Lesson Membership: 2-1 hour lessons per month AND a Par membership • BIRDIE Lesson Membership: 3-1 hour lessons per month AND a Birdie membership The Back Nine is also entering their busiest season, meaning their tee sheets will be busier. They recommend booking a couple of days in advance to ensure people get the time they want at the tee. For more information on The Back Nine, please visit their website at thebackninegolf.com.

CNA Learning Hub, a Nebraska stateapproved healthcare education and training school located at 630 N Cotner Blvd, Suite 105, recently celebrated its official ribbon-cutting and community grand opening event in August 2026. The celebration marked one year in business since officially launching in June 2025 and highlighted the addition of its new 40-hour Certified Medication Aide (CMA) program. Approximately 50 attendees—including students, instructors, local community members, supporters, and area organizations—joined founder, Administrator, and instructor Mirranda Brooks to mark the milestone. Guests toured the facility, enjoyed dirty soda and snacks, entered raffle drawings and explored the school’s career training programs. CNA Learning Hub provides student-centered healthcare education designed to equip future caregivers with essential clinical knowledge, practical skills and confidence. Course offerings include an accelerated 76-hour Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program that can be completed in two weeks, alongside flexible evening and weekend options, preparing students for Nebraska state testing exams. Supported by six instructors, the school has already trained and graduated hundreds of CNA students to help strengthen Nebraska’s healthcare workforce. “Our goal is to provide students with the knowledge, hands-on skills, confidence and competency they need,” said Brooks. To register for upcoming classes or set up a facility visit, contact CNA Learning Hub at 402-318-5583, email mirranda@cnalearninghub.com, or visit cnalearninghub.com.

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Strictly Business OCTOBER 2026

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BUSINESS NEWS ReCharge Wellness Celebrated Grand Opening Two BBB Midwest Plains Businesses Named in Late August 2026 International Torch Award Recipients ReCharge Wellness held its ribbon cutting on August 28, 2026, followed by grand opening celebrations on August 29-30. The events introduced Lincoln to a new recovery and wellness studio built around consistent, convenient, and affordable access to wellness and recovery services. “I built ReCharge so recovery fits into everyday life,” said owner Amanda Coleman. ReCharge uses a membership model that gives members unlimited access to every service included in their tier on any day the studio is open, without per-session fees or credit packs. The studio offers full-spectrum sauna, cold plunge, contrast therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, red light therapy, halo salt therapy, lymphatic compression, and PEMF, along with other recovery and performance services. For more information on ReCharge Wellness, please visit their website at rechargelincoln.com. You can also visit their new location at 2120 S 56th St. in Lincoln.

A1 Automotive Expands European Vehicle Repair Expertise, Bringing Specialized Service to Nebraska Drivers A1 Automotive is strengthening its commitment to European vehicle owners by expanding specialized repair and diagnostic capabilities for BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volkswagen, Porsche, and other European makes. European vehicles are engineered with advanced technology, sophisticated electronics, and unique service requirements. A1 Automotive is investing in the training, diagnostic equipment, and technical resources necessary to properly service these vehicles while providing customers with the communication and care they expect from a trusted local repair shop. “Our goal is to give European vehicle owners a better option when their vehicle needs service or repair,” said Kendall Warnock, A1 Automotive. “These vehicles require more than just a generic scan tool and a parts replacement approach. They require knowledge, proper diagnostics, quality parts, and a commitment to doing the repair correctly.” A1 Automotive technicians continue to develop their expertise through advanced training and access to professional diagnostic technology, including OE-level diagnostic capabilities for European manufacturers. The shop’s European vehicle services include advanced diagnostic and electrical troubleshooting, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi and Volkswagen service and repair, Porsche maintenance and repair, engine and transmission diagnostics, cooling system and oil leak repairs, suspension and steering repairs, brake and tire services, preventative maintenance, manufacturer-specific diagnostic services, inspection and identification of common vehicle failure patterns. A1 Automotive’s approach is centered on diagnosing the problem before recommending the repair, helping customers understand what their vehicle needs today and what may need attention in the future. For more information about A1 Automotive and its European vehicle repair services, visit A1 Automotive, a1autolincoln.com, or contact the Lincoln or Seward locations.

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Two businesses in Better Business Bureau Midwest Plains’ service area — which spans Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and South Dakota — have been named 2026 International Torch Award for Ethics recipients. This marks the third consecutive year the region has produced two international winners. To even compete for the recognition, businesses had to earn Torch Awards for Ethics at the local level. More than 130 businesses applied for the International Torch Awards this year and of that group, just four International Torch Awards were awarded across the country, split among four employee-size categories: 1-10, 11-99, 100-499 and 500+. BBB Midwest Plains’ 2026 International Torch Award recipients are: • 11-99 employees: Roxi & Co. (Sioux Falls, S.D.; BBB Accredited Business since 2017) — South Dakota’s first-ever International Torch Award recipient. • 100-499 employees: Core Bank (Omaha, Neb.; BBB Accredited Business since 2021) — the third consecutive year an Omaha-area Accredited Business has earned an International Torch Award. International winners were honored at the IABBB Trust Summit in Denver in mid-September and BBB Midwest Plains’ full slate of Torch Award winners were celebrated at the 2026 Torch Awards Luncheon on September 22 in Waterloo, Neb. Core Bank - Core Bank is a full-service, family-owned bank offering a comprehensive range of products and expertise — business banking, construction lending, wealth services, mortgage, and personal banking. Judges recognized Core Bank for pairing strong ethical leadership with a culture built on trust and unity, anchored by an employee reward program judges called a genuine source of cohesion. In 2025, the bank partnered with more than 60 local organizations and gave back over $130,000 to the community. Its people-first values were backed by substance: a welldocumented impact report, strong customer reviews reflecting dependable relationships, and consistently thoughtful application responses. Judges were especially struck by the bank’s community commitment — giving generously of its time, treasure, and talent, and encouraging employees to do the same. “Receiving the International Torch Award for Ethics is an incredible honor and a reflection of who we strive to be at Core Bank,” said John Sorrell, CEO of Core Bank. “Trust is at the heart of our business, and this recognition belongs to our entire team - the people who live our values every day through the way they serve our customers, support one another, and strengthen our communities.” Roxi & Co. - Roxi & Co. is a pet services company named for owner Telly’s late mother, who taught him to do the right thing even when it’s hard or inconvenient. That lesson shapes the company culture: judges praised Roxi & Co. for empowering employees to act on their values without layers of approval, and were moved by Telly’s decision during a product recall to proactively refund customers and personally absorb the cost rather than compromise on quality. Judges also highlighted a culture where employees are coached, heard and grown into leadership roles. The company’s community impact reinforces that reputation for heart and discipline: Roxi & Co. has donated 6,500 bags of pet food to rescues in need. “It isn’t a coincidence that this region has produced international winners in three consecutive years,” said Josh Planos, Vice President of Marketing & Communications for BBB Midwest Plains. “Core Bank and Roxi & Co. earned this recognition by building trust into a daily operational habit, and our communities are better for it. We are proud to see South Dakota and Omaha represented on the international stage.” Since 1996, the International Torch Awards have recognized businesses across North America that demonstrate outstanding dedication to upholding ethical business practices and promoting trust in the marketplace. For more information, please visit bbb.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS Kim Hazelton of Alpha Zed Services Offers Home Builders Association of Lincoln to Host Presentation Titled “Does it Matter if my Fall Parade of Homes October 4-11 Ducks are in a Row?” for Estate Information Every spring and fall, the Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL) Organization organizes a Parade of Homes for Kim Hazelton, founder of Alpha Zed Services is now offering estate information presentations at no charge for adults and families to educate them about getting their estate information compiled.

When someone experiences a medical emergency, becomes incapacitated or passes away, loved ones are often left searching for important information and documents while making difficult decisions. The goal of these presentations is to get attendees to understand what information should be gathered and why it matters. Participants will learn why organizing these documents is important, the information families need as well as how to avoid common mistakes which cause unneeded stress on families and loved ones. Kim’s work focuses on helping individuals and families identify, gather and organize the practical information through presentations that are educational, practical and immediately actionable. For more information or to request a presentation, you can call (531) 530-9390, email kim@alphazedservices.com or by visiting the website at alphazedservices.com.

the public, offering potential home buyers a unique opportunity to walk through new homes and meet the builders. From Sunday, October 4 through Sunday, October 11, homes will be open weeknights from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. The event is free and features local home building companies at various locations around Lincoln. Attendees can download the Parade of Homes app to easily view details about each home, access driving directions and browse the online guidebook — all in one convenient place. The 2026 Fall Parade guidebook will be available on the HBAL website, hbal.org. About Home Builders Association of Lincoln The Home Builders Association of Lincoln is a visible, effective and respected trade association which promotes home building through professional education, member communication and civic participation, and which represents builders and associated professionals in community, government and industry forums. HBAL has promoted the home building and remodeling industries in Lincoln since 1951. For more information about HBAL and the Parade of Homes, visit hbal.org.

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Strictly Business OCTOBER 2026

LINCOLN LIN I C IN COLN STA STARS T TARS

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BUSINESS NEWS

MAKE YOUR MOVE.

Katniss Clinic Offers Payment Options Through Cherry Technologies, Inc., Expanding Accessibility to Lincoln Residents Katniss Clinic is excited to announce that they now offer payment options through Cherry! You can visit Cherry at pay.withcherry.com/katniss-clinic. *Payment options through Cherry Technologies, Inc. are offered through the following lending partners: withcherry.com/lending-partners. Katniss Clinic, operated by Dr. Keli Kolegraff, MD, PhD, offers many procedures, both surgical and non-surgical, to enhance your features and boost self-esteem. Some procedures she offers include, but are not limited to: breast reduction, lift or augmentation; scar revision; Botox; liposuction; and face lift and/or neck lift. Dr. Kolegraff places emphasis on patient care and recovery, and employs innovative surgical techniques along with her understanding of the body to improve surgical outcomes. Clients can expect to enter her office and be in good hands, leaving with a new empowering look. To get in contact with Dr. Keli Kolegraff, email drkeli@katnissclinic.com or book online at katnissclinic.com.

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Haymarket Harvest to Bring a Full Day of Fall Festivities to Lincoln’s Historic Haymarket This fall, Lincoln’s Historic Haymarket will become the backdrop for a new community celebration as Haymarket Harvest takes over the district on Saturday, October 24, from 2 to 10 p.m. JJOIN OIN U S FFOR OR TTHE H US HEE Designed as a celebration of fall and the community that makes the Haymarket one of Lincoln’s most recognizable destinations, Haymarket Harvest will bring together local businesses and vendors, dedicated activity areas for children, food and drinks, a pet parade, live music, a beer garden, tasting trail and seasonal experiences throughout 24 the district. Admission to Haymarket Harvest is free, giving visitors the opportunity to explore the festival, shop local businesses and vendors, and enjoy activities throughout the afternoon and evening. Families will find dedicated children’s activity areas along with fall activities ranging from a pie-eating contest to gourd carving and other seasonal fun. The Haymarket Harvest Pet Parade will also invite four-legged festivalgoers to join the celebration, with costumes optional but encouraged. Local businesses and vendors will be an important part of the festival, offering shopping, food, seasonal treats and more throughout the Historic Haymarket. Live music and entertainment will be a major part of the festival, with entertainment managed by Kinkaider Brewing Co. and Bertha’s. A beer garden and tasting trail will add to the experience for adult festivalgoers, with entertainment continuing into the evening. While general admission to Haymarket Harvest is free, passes will be required for the beer garden, tasting trail and concert attendance. Rather than centering the event in a single venue, Haymarket Harvest is designed to make the Historic Haymarket itself part of the experience. Visitors can move through the district, browse vendors, visit local businesses, participate in activities, enjoy live music and spend an entire fall afternoon and evening downtown. Haymarket Harvest will take place Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 2 to 10 p.m. in Lincoln’s Historic Haymarket. Additional announcements, including participating businesses and vendors, live music, children’s activities, tasting trail details, passes and the complete festival schedule, will be released as the event approaches. For more information, email Team@haymarketharvest.com.

Member FDIC From Forbes © 2026 Forbes Media LLC. All rights reserved. Used under license.

HHAYMARKET AAYYYM MAAARRKKEEETT M MAKERS MARKET: 2-6 PM KID ZONE: 2-8 PM TASTING BEER GARDEN, LIVE MUSIC, TA T STING TRAIL: 2-10 P

OCTOBER

2-10PM

IN THE HISTORIC HAYMARKET LINCOLN, NEBRASKA

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BUSINESS NEWS Snarks Computer Repair Brings Honest, Local Holiday Season is the Perfect Season at Computer Service to Downtown Lincoln STATUS Haymarket Lincoln native Marcus Boone turned years of self-taught computer knowledge into Snarks Computer Repair, a local Lincoln shop providing straightforward, fairly priced computer repair services in the downtown area. Marcus, 33, is the owner and technician behind Snarks Computer Repair, located inside Elevator’s co-warehousing and office space near 12th and N Streets. A former Airpark resident, Marcus takes pride in serving his hometown and building a business based on honesty and dependable service. Snarks Computer Repair offers general computer repair and troubleshooting, including broken screen repairs, Windows crashes, “blue screen of death” issues, antivirus assistance and other common computer problems. Marcus hopes to continue expanding his skills and services in the coming years, including eventually offering data recovery and exploring other areas of the technology industry.

STATUS Haymarket has the perfect gifts for the holiday season quickly approaching. Based in the Historic Haymarket District, they are committed to selling the best sustainable luxury and building customer trust. STATUS prioritizes working with brands that are responsible about using recycled clothing as much as possible. Their collection includes luxury handbags, designer jewelry and standout clothing pieces. Some bags and items, during holiday season, may take up to six weeks to arrive at the store so be sure to plan ahead regarding your gifts for friends and family. STATUS owner Cassie Smidt also offers consultations with spouses and other loved ones to make sure they get the exact bag, jewelry piece or other item they want for the holiday. Special orders for items should be made by Oct. 15 to ensure timely arrival. For more information on STATUS Haymarket, visit mystatusluxhaymarket. com.

Those interested in learning more about Snarks Computer Repair can find the business on Google, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau and Facebook or by calling (531) 289-5205.

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BUSINESS NEWS 50 Nebraskans Are Benefitting From New Manufacturing Alliance Credential at Community Colleges The new Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance Credential, developed by the Nebraska Department of Labor, the Nebraska Chamber Foundation, manufacturers and the state’s six community colleges, is improving Nebraska workers’ readiness for manufacturing jobs and fill their labor shortage through a curriculum by the project partners. So far in 2026, 27 students have completed the program, and 23 students are in progress. The Level 1 credential is 173 contact hours and consists of seven modules focused on manufacturing skills: 1. Workplace Safety and OSHA-10 2. Manufacturing Quality Control and Precision Measurement 3. Workplace Effectiveness and Professional Success for Manufacturing 4. Precision Measurement, Tool Use, Inspection Fundamentals 5. Equipment & Mechanical Awareness for Manufacturing 6. Continuous Improvement and Problem-Solving for Manufacturing 7. Learn Manufacturing Fundamentals In addition to courses being tuition-free, students receive stipends for participating in them. The credential can be completed in 6-8 weeks – or “boot camp” style in as little as five weeks. Students participating can be youth or high-school-aged learners, adults studying for their GED or high school graduates and industry professionals wanting to “upskill.” Student evaluations record that 89% of students’ expectations were met and 93% felt more prepared to work in manufacturing after completing the program. Prospective students interested in enrolling should contact their nearest community college. Manufacturers wanting to learn more can contact the NE Chamber. The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce is the largest, statewide business association, proudly serving as the voice of Nebraska’s business community since 1912. The organization promotes and protects Nebraska’s free enterprise system by ensuring a competitive business climate, economic growth and greater prosperity for all Nebraskans. For more information, please visit nechamber.com.

Share Your Business News! Have a promotion, award, business milestone, community partnership, or professional achievement to share? We’d love to feature it in Strictly Business. Call (402) 466-3330, email editor@strictlybusinessomaha. com, or submit your news at strictly-business.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Leadership Lincoln Announced 2026-2027 Flagship Class Leadership Lincoln is pleased to announce the 2026-2027 Flagship class. Now in it’s 42nd year, Leadership Lincoln develops strong leaders for a stronger Lincoln. Yvette Aceves (Educare Lincoln), Jim Baker (Ameritas), Samantha Benda (Wellbeing Initiative), Lindsey Bolander (Visit Lincoln), Casey Brandt (West Gate Bank), Taisa Brumagen (Wellbeing Initiative), Tyler Buck (Pinnacle Bank), Kimberly Carroll Steward (Nebraska Recycling Council), Ashley Connell (Woods Aitken), Samantha Cressler (CLC’s), Mariah Drullinger (City of Lincoln), Mark Egge (Ironhide Construction), Anthony Fitzgerald (Project Control), Elissa Fuelberth (Rose Cat Coffee), Teri Gregory (Assurity Life Insurance), Jenna Hesterman (DLR Group), Hannah Johnson (Friendship Home), Brenda Kasaty (Rose Cat Coffee), Dayna Krannawitter (Lincoln Housing Authority), Mara Krivohlavek (LPS), Taletha Krysko (LES), Mikaela Liekhis (UBT), Carly Makovicka (TeamMates), Alexis Markowski (UNICO), Jacey McCarthy (St. Croix Hospice), Jackson McKenzie (Custom Blinds), Caroline McKenzie (UBT), Jeff Morrison (Olsson), Braden Murphy (Hilgers PLLC), Joy Oyebefun (Asian Center), Tahner Pinkman (Nelnet), Nelson Pouliot (Bryan Health), Brad Quimby (Blackhills Energy), Tina Reeves (Bespoke Celebrations), Frederick Rumery (LES), Jennifer Schall (Union Adventist University), Scott Schrage (Civic Nebraska), Sam Stecher (Franklin Covey), Scott Stovall (Clark & Enerson), Ruthi Thompson (BraveBe), Chris Volnek (Google), Tonia Wasser (UNL), Brodey Weber (City of Lincoln). For more information on Leadership Lincoln, please visit leadershiplincoln.org. OCTOBER 2026 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS First Lincoln Federal Credit Union Focused on Serving Local Communities First Lincoln Federal Credit Union is proud to be a locally focused financial institution serving Lincoln and the surrounding community. Since 1956, they have built their foundation on personal service, strong member relationships and a commitment to the people and businesses that make Lincoln a great place to live and work. Located at 5730 R Street, Suite A, Lincoln, NE 68505, First Lincoln Federal Credit Union offers a variety of financial products and services to help members meet their goals, including checking and savings accounts, certificates and IRAs, auto and personal loans, credit cards, electronic services and free financial coaching. Whether you are managing your everyday finances, purchasing a vehicle or planning for the future, the team is here to provide personalized guidance and local decision-making. They also have bilingual staff available to better serve the diverse community. Stop by, give them a call at (402) 466-4040, or visit firstlincoln.org to learn more. At First Lincoln Federal Credit Union, they believe that when they support their members, they strengthen the entire community. Local Service. Local Decisions. Local Commitment.

Tech Nebraska Launches as Independent Statewide Technology Association Tec h Nebraska announced its transition to an independent, member-driven organization, effective September 1, 2026. This marks the next chapter in its growth as the statewide voice for Nebraska’s technology and innovation ecosystem. As an independent 501(c)(6) organization, Tech Nebraska will accelerate its mission of advancing Nebraska’s technology ecosystem through public policy, industry collaboration, leadership convening and signature programs, including the Tech Nebraska Summit, Tech Talks and regional Built Here Microsummits. The transition reflects Tech Nebraska’s continued growth while ensuring continuity for members, sponsors, partners and stakeholders. Existing memberships, sponsorships, programming and advocacy efforts will continue uninterrupted. Tech Nebraska and the Nebraska Chamber will continue working together on issues that strengthen Nebraskan’s technology and innovation ecosystem. Since its founding in 2023, Tech Nebraska has expanded statewide programming, strengthened its policy leadership, launched regional events and grown a diverse membership representing companies and organizations across Nebraska’s innovation economy. As an independent organization, Tech Nebraska will continue to: • Advocate for public policies that support innovation, entrepreneurship and technology-driven economic growth • Convene Nebraska’s technology community through statewide events, regional programming and leadership forums • Connect industry, academia, government, startups and establish companies • Promote Nebraska as a leading place to build, grow and invest in technology and innovation. For more information on Tech Nebraska, visit technologynebraska.com. To learn more about the Nebraska Chamber, visit nechamber.com.

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ASK THE EXPERT: ON-POINT INSURANCE

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by Krista Dittman Agent, Individual & Senior Benefits

Medicare Annual Enrollment starts in October – what you need to know for 2027 The return of Jimmy Walker and Joe Namath to our TVs every fall coincides with the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period that begins October 15th and ends December 7th. This is when Medicare enrollees can review and update their Part D or Medicare Advantage plan choice for the upcoming year. Here are the highlights: There will be continued disruption with Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage plans in 2027. There will be fewer Part D plans available in 2027, and it is very possible that the premiums will be higher. The formulary, or list of prescriptions that each plan covers is predicted to shrink as well, which will affect those with name brand or specialty medications. It will continue to be very important to do a review of your current Part D plan even if has “been a good plan in the past” because it may not even be offered in 2027. The Medicare Prescription Payment Plan (M3P) that began in 2025 will continue to be offered. This provides individuals on Medicare who have expensive prescriptions to “smooth out” the overall expense throughout the 12 months of their Part D plans. Disruption is also happening with Advantage plans. If a carrier terminates a plan for the upcoming year, the current members have three choices: 1-Choose a different Medicare Advantage plan. 2-Return to Original Medicare (Part A and B) with a stand-alone Part D plan, or 3-Return to Original Medicare and add a Part D plan AND a Medicare Supplement. If an Advantage plan is leaving the market, those plan members have a special situation that guarantees the right to enroll in a Medicare Supplement without answering questions about their health history. For some it may be worth the extra cost to switch back to a Supplement plan due to network limitations or expected treatment costs. Between watching Joe Namath commercials, it is important that Medicare enrollees read their Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) documents that are sent in September and check the formulary to make sure their prescriptions will still be covered. If enrolling in an Advantage plan for 2027, please double check that preferred providers and facilities are in network with the new plan for 2027. Finally, and perhaps most importantly - ask for assistance. The licensed insurance agents at On Point insurance Agency are here to help review options and make 2027 Medicare plan choices.

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OCTOBER 2026 Strictly Business

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STAR CITY SIX

JASON

Jason Howe

K2 HOLISTIC HEALTH

Come Visit Us at 48th and O or Northstar Crossing 20

Strictly Business OCTOBER 2026

Jason Howe is the CEO and physician associate at K2 Holistic Health. Tell us a little bit about your business. - We were very purposeful when we chose our clinic name: K2 Holistic Health. K2 is one of the highest and most challenging mountains in the world. We recognize that every one of our patients are facing a challenging mountain of their own: whether it is chronic pain, neuropathy, fatigue, weight gain, hormone imbalances or injury. Our mission is to overcome those obstacles and help each person climb those very mountains. K2 also represents the two principles that guide our care: Kinetics (how the body moves) and Kinesthetics (the neurology behind the movement). Restoring our patients’ movement and neurology is fundamental in our treatments. By integrating medical care, rehabilitation and performance optimization, we help our patients reclaim their health. How did you get started in the business? - I grew up in a very medical family. However, working several years in ER and primary care had taught me that the medical system is broken, as we delay death in the ER only to shuffle those patients back to primary care for more and more medications that address different symptoms but fail to actually address the core issues that lead to pathology. Each step in my professional journey has taken me closer and closer to founding K2 Holistic Health: a clinic grounded in helping our patients reclaim their health. Our clinic integrates the best of the medical world, physical therapy world and chiropractic care, with a bonus specialty in hormones and peptides. Our orthopedics are grounded in imaging guided procedures with regenerative medicine, PRP, and Sarapin. Our neurology is grounded in nutritional overhaul, neurogenesis and addressing the cause of the neuropathy. Our endocrine focus is grounded in understanding how systemic inflammation leads to insulin resistance, which leads to mitochondrial dysfunction, and how this pathological process can be corrected with hormone and peptide balancing. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - My answer would definitely be founding this clinic and growing it this fast. Yet, K2 Holistic Health isn’t my achievement. This clinic is here to help others because of the many people who have poured their lives into this clinic (and into mine as well). My incredible wife Carley, who has been instrumental in reshaping my life, and who has been so supportive as we excitedly drew what ended up being the clinic name, logo and organizational structure with a crayon on a children’s menu in an Omaha restaurant. My incredible parents Dan and Donna, whose love and support has sustained both the clinic and my own life. My incredible staff who have believed in our clinic- and in me—so much as to get through those tough early months together. My incredible patients, many of whom have followed me from one clinic to another, as they appreciated something about my journey. To Ashley Tobias, Manny Walker and my incredible friends in our networking groups who accepted me. The list could go on and on, but I am limited by a word count in this article. :) If you had a theme song, what would it be? - I don’t think there is a song that better fits my life than “Growing Young”, by Rich Mullins. Those lyrics are loaded! They speak to someone making choices they deeply regret, and yet that isn’t the end for them. There can still be love and redemption. “Was Your love stronger than my foolish pride?” Then those lyrics that follow, with the way he sings it? That hits home. This is the theme song for my life. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Our clinic phone is (402) 817-1999, which is the easiest way to reach the clinic. Our website has a lot of good information on it (k2holistichealth.com), as does our Facebook and Instagram pages (K2 Holistic Health).

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STAR CITY SIX

BROOKE

Brooke Carlson

DISRUPTING TRAFFICK Brooke Carlson is the Founder and Executive Director at Disrupting Traffick. Tell us a little about your organization. - Disrupting Traffick is an anti-trafficking agency in Lincoln. We were founded as an outreach organization but quickly learned that we needed to offer tangible support and fill specific gaps in our community’s efforts to end trafficking. Traffickers exploit the vulnerable circumstances that many women in our community are facing. By offering a Resource Center and Safe House, we are helping fill these gaps. How did you get started in the business? - In 2011, the first trafficking survivor I ever met was a zambian girl with purple braids. I shared my story of sexual assault for the first time publically in front of several hundred zambian women and girls. I will never forget walking out of the auditorium to her sitting alone on a rock. She said ‘your story is my story.’ Except her story wasn’t my story. But, at that moment, I knew I had to do something. I think I unexpectedly walked into my calling that day. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - In 2024, I was invited to be a keynote speaker for the National Center on Sexual Exploitation’s Global Summit. I was able to speak about how technology is changing to influence trafficking in ways we could’ve never imagined. The summit was attended by attorney generals from all over the country, UN delegates, and leaders from across the world. It was truly an honor to represent Disrupting Traffick and my work to fight trafficking. Tell us a little about your family. - My husband and I have three little boys that keep us entertained and very busy. We have extended family in my hometown of Sioux Falls, SD and in Lincoln. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Sitting on a beach, snorkeling and finding sea turtles is a perfect day for me. When in town, coffee and thrifting is relaxation. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - My staff didn’t realize that I enjoy painting. Blending colors using acrylic or oil paints has been a hobby of mine. Who inspires you? - The survivors that we work with daily. Seeking services is just one of many steps to rebuilding their lives. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Your experience has uniquely qualified you for where you are at right now. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Trailblazer. I have never shied away from finding justice for others. If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Dark Horses” by Switchfoot. Which talent would you most like to have? - Piano, I am able to play by ear but I would love to be able to play from sheet music. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Music. I was in a band with my husband at 18. What is your favorite podcast? - I really like the Blurry Creatures podcast. What is your favorite song? - I love too many songs to pick just one but 70’s rock is at the top of the list. What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Momo’s has the best butternut squash fusilli and tiramisu. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Whitney Houston is an icon. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – My email is brooke@disruptingtraffick.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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STAR CITY SIX

JODEE

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Jodee Leader is the Executive Assistant at Downtown Lincoln Association. Tell us a little about your business. - Downtown Lincoln Association (DLA) is a nonprofit organization working to make Downtown Lincoln a vibrant place to live, work, visit and play. From maintenance and beautification to economic development and advocacy, we lead and support programs that help Downtown thrive. How did you get started in the business? - After spending more than 30 years working in the legal world right here in Downtown Lincoln, I decided it was time to switch things up! I wanted to find a position that better fit my fun, outgoing personality and gave me the opportunity to connect with people in a different way. When the opportunity at DLA came along, it felt like the perfect fit. I love being part of an organization that is so passionate about Downtown Lincoln and getting to work with the people and businesses that make our downtown special. Tell us a little about your family. - I have been married to my husband, Cory, for 25 years and we have two grown and flown kids. Our son, Carson, attends Aurora University in Aurora, Illinois and our daughter, Kamree, attends Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas. We also have two pups, Gypzy and Jerzy, and they bring so much love, happiness and maybe a little chaos to our empty nest! What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I enjoy spa time and taking day trips. In fact, I am always up for an adventure or the next boutique hop! If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - I say kind. However, my co-workers say fun! What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Lazlo’s! In fact, I could eat their creamy garlic dressing every day! What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Breakthrough T1D (formerly the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) is near and dear to my heart because I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age 20. Diabetes is an invisible disease that most people can’t begin to understand so education is so important. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I think it would be fun to be a retail buyer for boutiques. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Taylor Swift. I love her music! What is your favorite quote? – “Do more of what makes you happy!” I think creating a happy life is so important! What is your favorite movie? - 50 First Dates. I love any movie with Drew Barrymore! What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Definitely becoming a Mom. I have enjoyed every stage of parenting and I especially love watching my grown and flown kids follow their dreams. What talent would you most like to have? - I wish I had a creative bone. However, I don’t. Therefore, I have a secret addiction to Pinterest! If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - You can contact me via email at jodee@downtownlincoln.org.

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STAR CITY SIX

DOUG

Doug Fitzgerald

LINCOLN COIN & BULLION Doug Fitzgerald is a Senior Trader at Lincoln Coin & Bullion. Tell us a little about your business. - I’ve always struggled with the question “What do you do?” because apparently, I’ve never believed in doing just one thing. My career has included radio, speaking, writing and entrepreneurship. Today, I’m a Senior Trader with Lincoln Coin & Bullion, my wife Tammie and I own Faux Glow Lincoln, and I continue to speak, emcee and work in media. I’m less interested in being busy and more interested in doing things that matter. How did you get started in the business? - I started in radio at 16 in Albion, Nebraska. That small-town radio station led to broadcasting, speaking, writing, ministry and entrepreneurship. As far as my passion for coins (gold & silver), I started collecting as a young kid and haven’t stopped. I love teaching and educating people about how vital it is to have gold and silver as part of your overall financial plan. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I’ve been fortunate to host an award-winning nationally syndicated radio show, host a local radio show, build two multimillion-dollar businesses, write a book and speak around the country. But I’m proudest when someone tells me something I said or wrote helped them through a difficult season or gave them courage to take another shot at life. Accomplishments have a shelf life. Impact doesn’t. Tell us a little about your family. - My wife of 35 years, Tammie, and I have four adult children: Dylan and his wife, Hannah, and Sydney and her husband, Skyler. Then earlier this year came our granddaughter, Lainey. She changed the game. I help take care of her three days a week, and I wouldn’t trade those days for anything. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Honestly, right now. For most of my life, success meant building, growing and adding. Now I’m discovering there can be just as much power in subtracting. I’ve removed commitments that no longer fit the life I want. Instead of asking, “Can I do this?” I ask: “Is this truly worth a piece of my life?” What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I’ve accumulated a strange collection of life experiences. I’ve flown in an F/A-18 with the Blue Angels, bungee jumped over concrete with no net, raced a stock car, raced in a hot air balloon, and was one of the original people to test P90X with Tony Horton before appearing with him regularly on QVC. When life gives you an opportunity to do something memorable, you should probably say yes. Although the bungee-jumping-overconcrete in the early 1990’s decision suggests there should be limits to that philosophy. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – ONESHOT. ONELIFE. We get one shot at this life. Don’t spend it living somebody else’s version of it. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Encourager. If people walk away believing a little more in themselves and what’s possible, I’ve done something worthwhile. What is your favorite movie? - Top Gun: Maverick. So many leadership lessons in this movie! If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Jesus. I’d love to hear Him tell the stories behind the stories I’ve spent my life reading. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Email doug@oneshotonelife.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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STAR CITY SIX

BRIANNA

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Brianna Babb is the Event Experience Designer at Venue 5 Twenty-Two. Tell us a little about your business. - Venue 5 Twenty-Two is Lincoln’s newest, upscale event venue! Here we handle any and every type of event. Weddings, Celebrations of Life, Fundraising Galas, Corporate Training Seminars and more! We love seeing people come together in our space and really getting to know our customers in the process. How did you get started in the business? - I got started in the wedding industry through my background in customer service. I met my husband at SchillingBridge Cork and Tap House in Fallbrook, and shortly after, we started planning our own wedding. After getting married, I realized how much I genuinely enjoyed the planning process and thought it would be so fun as a career. I saw an Instagram post about Venue 5 Twenty-Two while it was still under construction, reached out about employment and the rest is history! What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced professionally was navigating a major transition. A business I had been a part of for many years closed and I found myself adapting to a completely different work environment. It was difficult to adjust to changes in culture, expectations and the way the team and customers were approached. Ultimately, though, that experience taught me a lot about resilience, adaptability and the type of workplace culture I value. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Professionally, I am most proud of the relationships I was able to build while working in the restaurant industry and the personal growth that came from that experience. Working in a restaurant pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me become a much more confident and sociable person. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - On a day off in summer, my husband and I can be found either at a pool or on a golf course. In the winter, I enjoy reading a good book. Who inspires you? - My dad has always been one of my biggest inspirations. He is probably the hardest-working and most selfless person I know. He has taught me that success isn’t just about what you accomplish professionally. Being a good person, building genuine relationships, and making a positive impact on the people around you can be even more meaningful. Those are lessons I carry with me in both my personal and professional life. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - If I could choose any other profession, I would probably choose interior design. I think it would be so much fun to create a vision for a space, from choosing the color palette and finishes to pulling everything together to make the room feel complete. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I would say my favorite book series has been the Throne of Glass series. It’s a long 8 book series and the story building is incredible. I haven’t read anything like it since! What is your favorite TV show? - My favorite TV show is Game of Thrones. Shortly after my husband and I started dating, I found out he had never seen it, so of course I had to introduce him to it! After just a few episodes, he was completely hooked. It has become one of our favorite shows to watch together. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - If readers would like to contact me, they can call Venue 5 Twenty-Two, email me at brianna@venue5twentytwo.com or submit an inquiry to host your next event! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STAR CITY SIX

JONI

Joni Crumrine

SPECIALLY FOR YOU Joni Crumrine is the President/Owner at Specially For You. Tell us a little about your business. - Specially For You, is a local, small business that specializes in advertising specialties and promotional products business. How did you get started in the business? - Specially For You, was started 40+ years ago. I recently jumped into the promotional product business in February of 2025, when I came on as a full-time employee to the previous owner, Linda Duren. I recently purchased the business from her in March of this year. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Working my way to the top. I had always felt that no matter how many hours I had put in, miles I had traveled or degrees that I had, something more always had to be done to just be seen or appreciated. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Being my own boss and having my daughters see it. Tell us a little about your family. - I grew up in Rising City, which is a small town, about an hour from Lincoln. I have an Associate’s Degree from SCC in Business Administration and my Bachelor’s Degree from Nebraska Wesleyan, where I majored in Communications and Minored in Business. I had spent close to 23 years in the corporate world before getting out and working for my aunt, Linda Duren, at Specially For You, in 2025. My husband, John, grew up in Grand Island and has been a realtor in Lincoln for 16 years. John and I have been married for 13 years and have two wonderful daughters. Ellie is 12. She is active in club soccer, club basketball, golf team and as of recent flag football. Avery is 10 and involved in both sports and music. She plays club basketball, flag football and then entertains us with her ability to sing, play the piano, the guitar (acoustic and electric) and the trombone. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - One of the biggest turning points in my life came in August of 2024, when I realized that there is more to life than always saying yes and doing too much. This is when I stepped away from the corporate world, as a project manager, because my mental health and my family needed to come first. I had a manager once say, “Joni you cannot get the memories back,” so I took a risk and started making more memories with my family. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - It sounds weird but it is clean my house. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - My very first job was hauling garbage. Who inspires you? - My parents. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Never stop learning. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Loving. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I have always wanted to be a chef. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - Diary of a Wimpy Kid – I usually only get to read books with the kids. What is your favorite movie? - Poetic Justice. What is your favorite TV show? - Criminal Minds. What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? - Lazlo’s and The Oven. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 489-4204, sales@specially4youinc.com or specially4youinc. com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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PERSONNEL NEWS UNICO Group Welcomes Scott M. Stevens, DAVINCIS Promotes Two to Vice President RHU, CDHC DAVINCIS is excited to announce the UNICO Group, a leading independent insurance brokerage headquartered in Nebraska, is pleased to announce that Scott M. Stevens has joined the organization, effective September 1, 2026. Stevens is an experienced employee benefits broker and consultant who has helped employers manage health insurance, healthcare, and employee benefits strategies for 40 years. By joining UNICO, Stevens will have access to the team, resources, and capabilities of a growing organization while continuing to provide clients with the personalized guidance and service they have come to expect. “Scott has built an outstanding reputation by helping employers better understand and manage their employee benefits programs,” said Shane Ideus, President of UNICO. “His experience, values, and commitment to serving clients align closely with our culture. We are excited to welcome Scott to UNICO and look forward to the opportunities this partnership creates for his clients and our team.” Throughout his career, Stevens has worked with thousands of organizations to implement alternative health insurance funding solutions, creative benefits strategies, and employee education programs. His experience includes serving as Vice President of Sales and Marketing for a national insurance company, co-founding and serving as Executive Vice President of a third-party administrator, and founding The HSA Toolkit, an employer and employee education system. He is also a published author and frequent speaker on healthcare financing and delivery issues. “UNICO’s strong reputation in the marketplace, access to a broader team and resources, and commitment to its core values and culture made this a natural fit,” said Scott Stevens. “I am excited to join an organization that shares my commitment to trusted relationships and thoughtful client service.” Through the partnership, Stevens’ clients will gain access to UNICO’s expanded resources and expertise across employee benefits, property and casualty insurance, risk management, and business solutions. Clients will continue to benefit from Stevens’ experience and consultative approach, now supported by the broader capabilities of the UNICO team. About UNICO Group UNICO Group is a client-focused insurance broker headquartered in Nebraska. We offer a consultative and relational approach to customized solutions for clients across the nation. Our commitment to trust, professionalism, and teamwork drives everything we do. For more information, call (402) 434-7200 or visit unicogroup.com.

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Strictly Business OCTOBER 2026

promotion of Scott Messersmith and Krista Messersmith to Vice President effective August 1, 2026. Scott has been a key member of the DAVINCIS team since June of 1991. He logged over 30 years as a General Manager before moving into their Corporate Office as an Area Supervisor in May of 2024. In 2025, Scott took on the additional role of Controller and became in charge of accounts payable. Krista Messersmith began her journey with DAVINCIS in June of 1990. After over 30 years in management, including many years as a General Manager, Krista moved into their Corporate Office in November of 2023 to take on the role of Catering and Recruiting Director. Together this team brings 71 years of experience to the job. Scott and Krista have been married for 34 years and are parents to 5 adult children, all of whom have worked for DAVINCIS at some point. Two of their children still work for the company. Their son, Seth, is the General Manager at the Pine Lake location and their daughter, Jocelynn, is a manager at the Superior DAVINCIS. As a family owned local business in Lincoln, DAVINCIS is thankful for this family which has had such a big part in their success. For more information, visit Davincis.com

City Bank & Trust Has Announced the Appointment of Zac Rabe as Vice President of Commercial Banking Rabe brings more than ten years of experience in the banking industry, specializing in commercial lending, business development, and relationship management. In his new role, he will focus on commercial real estate financing, business acquisition and expansion loans, equipment financing, and working capital lines of credit. “Zac takes a relationship-first approach to banking, working to understand each client’s business, challenges, and longterm objectives before identifying the right financial solution,” the bank said in a statement. Throughout his career, Rabe has established a reputation for accessibility, responsiveness, and consistent client collaboration, emphasizing long-term partnerships over single transactions. A Nebraska native, Rabe resides locally with his wife and two children. Outside of work, he is an active community member, an avid Nebraska Cornhuskers fan, and an enthusiast of golf and active living. For more information about City Bank & Trust’s commercial banking services, visit citybankandtrust.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

PERSONNEL NEWS Husker Rehab Celebrates Former Student Workers as They Begin Professional Careers Husker Rehab is celebrating a group of former student employees who recently reac hed an exciting milestone as they begin their professional careers in health care. Over the past several years, these students have worked at Husker Rehab’s North and South clinics while pursuing their education and preparing for careers in occupational therapy, physical therapy, physician assistant studies and medicine. Several of the students recently received their white coats, marking an important step in their professional journeys. The University of Nebraska Medical Center students participated in their White Coat Ceremony on Friday, Aug. 21, while students from Creighton University also recently celebrated this milestone. Husker Rehab congratulates the following former student employees on their accomplishments: UNMC Programs • Ava Williams, Occupational Therapy • Jill Parr, Physician Assistant • Carney Black, Physical Therapy • Sela Rikli, Physical Therapy • Jennifer Ramaekers, Physical Therapy • Aidan Kauth-Fisher, Physician Assistant • Brendan Burt, Physical Therapy • Jami Mans, Physical Therapy • Marissa Hersh, Physical Therapy UNMC Medical • Jaidy Suarez, Doctor of Medicine Creighton University • Brenna McLain, Physical Therapy • Lily Pensik, Physical Therapy Husker Rehab is proud to have been a small part of these students’ educational and professional journeys and wishes each of them continued success as they begin their careers. Husker Rehab proudly offers therapy services in five clinics in four different Nebraska cities, where they serve physicians and their patients with unique, highly-intensive, highly-customized rehabilitation, wellness and preventative care therapies that make a difference in people’s lives. They listen to every patient’s needs and desires, analyze the problem and figure out ways to get people moving again. For more information, please visit huskerrehab.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Nebraska Orthopaedic Center Welcomes Foot & Ankle Specialist Dr. Jesse Trent, Expanding Orthopaedic Care at New Salt Creek Location Nebraska Orthopaedic Center (NOC) is expanding access to specialized foot and ankle care with the addition of Jesse J. Trent, M.D., a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon specializing in foot and ankle care. Dr. Trent is now accepting patients at Nebraska Orthopaedic Center’s St. Elizabeth Medical Plaza and 33rd & Salt Creek locations, giving patients greater access to specialized care at two convenient Lincoln locations. Dr. Trent’s arrival comes as NOC continues to expand services at its newest Lincoln location, 33rd & Salt Creek, 3255 Salt Creek Circle. The new location offers a full range of orthopaedic care along with two services designed to make accessing care and recovery more convenient: • NOC Ortho Quick Care — Walk-in orthopaedic care for new injuries, with no appointment necessary. • NOC Therapy — Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy, providing patients with access to rehabilitation services in the same location as their orthopaedic care. The Salt Creek location is NOC’s second NOC Ortho Quick Care location, joining the existing clinic at 70th & A. NOC Ortho Quick Care provides same-day care for new orthopaedic injuries, helping patients receive evaluation and treatment without an emergency room visit. Dr. Trent is accepting new patients. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 402-436-2000 or online at nebraskaortho.com. For more information about Nebraska Orthopaedic Center and its services, visit nebraskaortho.com.

OCTOBER 2026 Strictly Business

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PERSONNEL NEWS West Gate Bank® Welcomes Jolene Mikuls as Senior Vice President, Controller

The West Gate Bank® Board of Directors is pleased to welcome Jolene Mikuls as Senior Vice President, Controller. Mikuls brings more than 30 years of banking experience to her role at West Gate Bank. As Controller, she will oversee and review daily accounting functions and necessary reporting. Mikuls earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Science in Business Administration from Bellevue University. Her banking career started in 1987 as a Commercial Loan Administrator, and later transitioned into the Finance department where she developed extensive expertise in financial management and strategic planning. She is a volunteer for Bridges Out of Poverty and Heartland Hope Mission in Omaha. Jolene Mikuls is located at West Gate Bank Pacific Springs at 1020 S 179th Court in Omaha and can be reached at (402) 323-6518 or jmikuls@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, our interest is you! Visit westgate.bank for more information.

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Strictly Business OCTOBER 2026

Capital Cigar Lounge Highlights Marketing Manager Shayna Zamrzla Capital Cigar Lounge is excited to highlight their Marketing Manager Shayna Zamrzla. She began working at Capital Cigar Lounge around one year ago, and was given the opportunity to become Marketing Manager five months ago. The bar manager and the owner of Capital believed in Zamrzla, who was nervous but excited for the role. Since then, Zamrzla has taken on the responsibility of managing the social media, designing seasonal menus and event menus, creating signs for their billboard, and writing press releases. She is grateful for the hands-on marketing experience she has received through this role. Along with managing marketing, she still bartends every week and is a friendly and familiar face to Capital’s customers. She also often brings her dog, Cleo, into the lounge with her. Cleo has become an unofficial mascot of Capital Cigar Lounge, and is always happy to greet their customers. “Through this job, I’ve met so many incredible people and built relationships that I’ll always be grateful for,” says Zamrzla. “I feel incredibly blessed to be a part of this community and this business. At the end of the day, it’s easy to market a place when you genuinely love it as much as I love Capital.” To contact Shayna Zamrzla, you can email her at Shayna@ capitalcigar.com. For more information on Capital Cigar Lounge, please visit their website at capitalcigar.com.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Three Promoted to New Lincoln Chamber and Apace Welcomes New Board Members Apace is proud to welcome Visit Lincoln Positions their new board officers The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and Visit Lincoln are excited to announce three important promotions within its organizations. Becca Fowler has been promoted to the position of Director of Member and Investor Development. In this capacity, she will lead efforts to grow Chamber membership and foster greater engagement in the Lincoln business community. Fowler will also head the charge to expand private sector investors in the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development, a public private partnership that leads economic development in the Lincoln area. Previously, Fowler had directed Investor Relations with the Lincoln Chamber since January 2025. “We are thrilled to have Becca lead this role for the Lincoln Chamber and Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development,” says Jason Ball, President & CEO of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development. “Becca brings a strong understanding of Lincoln’s business community and a passion for building meaningful relationships. Her leadership will be instrumental in growing the Chamber’s membership while strengthening private-sector investment in Lincoln’s continued economic vitality.” Visit Lincoln is happy to announce two promotions, with Lindsey Bolander promoted to the role of Director of Sales for Visit Lincoln, and Clay Simpson promoted to the position of Sales Development and Data Strategy Manager for Visit Lincoln. Bolander has been with Visit Lincoln as a Sales Development Manager since November 2024 and leads efforts to bring faith-based markets as well as state, regional and national associations to Lincoln for their events, while Simpson began with Visit Lincoln as an intern in 2019, and was then hired as a Sales Development Manager in June 2022, specializing in the social, military, education and fraternal markets. “The promotions of Clay and Lindsey are well-deserved and will help continue our overwhelming success as a destination marketing organization. Their dedication and hard work to put our city and county on the map in each of their markets is indicative of their ability to connect with planners at all levels,” says Jeff Maul, Executive Director and Vice President for Visit Lincoln. “Our team’s success is centered around our ability to lean on one another and find new ways to communicate Lincoln’s unique brand of hospitality and celebrate our successes, one event at a time.” For more information, please visit lcoc.com.

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whose passion and experience will help guide their mission of supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Jan Bestwick is the Leading Support Officer with Cornerstone Bank in York. She brings deep compassion and personal insight through her lived experience with her son, inspiring her strong commitment to inclusive communities and advocacy. Jan is also involved in Special Olympics in the York area. Chris Blomenberg is an attorney with McHenry, Hazard Law in Lincoln. Chris specializes in Guardianships and Conservatorship, Social Security Disability, Elder Law, Estate Planning, and Estate Administration, bringing a wealth of professional knowledge and heart to the board. Paula Schulz is a retired nurse from the Lincoln area. Paula’s advocacy is deeply rooted in her personal journey—her son is the driving force behind her dedication to building a more equitable world for those in the DD community. Each of these leaders brings unique perspectives and strengths, united by a shared commitment to empowering the individuals we support at Apace. We are grateful for their leadership and excited for what is ahead. Please welcome Jan, Chris, and Paula to the Apace Board of Directors! For more information on Apace, please visit their website at goapace. com.

Celeste Hellbusch Named Local Coordinator for CEF Lincoln Chapter Child Evangelism Fellowship of Nebraska, together with the Lincoln Chapter Local Committee, is pleased to announce that Celeste Hellbusch has been named the new Local Coordinator for the CEF Lincoln Chapter. Celeste is already well acquainted with Child Evangelism Fellowship and the community. She has served as the Lincoln Chapter’s Ministry Coordinator since July 2025, working alongside staff, volunteers, churches and ministry partners to help reach children with the Gospel. In November 2025, Celeste completed her training at the Children’s Ministry Institute, CEF’s specialized training program for children’s ministry leaders. Her ministry experience, training and relationships within the chapter have prepared her to assume this leadership role. Celeste succeeds Guillermo Gonzalez, who concluded his service with Child Evangelism Fellowship in June. CEF is grateful for Guillermo’s service to the Lincoln Chapter and wish him well in the next chapter of his life. Please join them in congratulating Celeste and praying for her as she leads the Lincoln Chapter in its continued mission to evangelize children with the Gospel, disciple them in the Word of God, and establish them in a local church for Christian living. About Child Evangelism Fellowship Child Evangelism Fellowship is a Bible-centered, worldwide organization dedicated to evangelizing children with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, discipling them in the Word of God, and establishing them in a local church for Christian living. For more information, visit cefnebraska.org. OCTOBER 2026 Strictly Business

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PERSONNEL NEWS CEF of Nebraska Welcomes Esther Beasley as Sartor Hamann Jewelers Welcomes Raegan State Coordinator Jorgensen as New Marketing Coordinator The CEF Nebraska State Board is pleased to announce that Esther Beasley has accepted the role of State Coordinator for CEF Nebraska, effective Oct. 5. This is a preliminary step to becoming the official director. Esther’s journey with CEF began in 2007 when she attended Christian Youth in Action (CYIA) for the first time. What began as a summer ministry opportunity developed into a calling to reach children and equip others for ministry. In May 2013, Esther joined the staff of CEF Omaha, and in 2019, she stepped into the role of Local Director. During Esther’s leadership, God has brought significant growth and development to CEF Omaha. The ministry has grown from partnering with 19 churches to more than 50, while its annual budget has nearly quadrupled to support the expanding work. Esther brings to the State Coordinator role a passion for leadership development, a heart for greater unity and collaboration across CEF in Nebraska, and a deep commitment to working alongside the local church to reach children with the Gospel. She holds an associate degree in Children’s Ministry from Calvary University and attends Bridge Church in Omaha. For more information, you can visit cefnebraska.org.

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank Celebrates Association Champion’s Circle Awards Lincoln Federal Savings Bank (Member FDIC / Equal Housing Lender) is proud to recognize seven of its mortgage loan officers for qualifying for the Nebraska Mortgage Association’s 2026 Champion’s Circle Awards. The Champion’s Circle Awards recognize mortgage professionals for their production during the qualification period of July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. The awards were announced at the annual conference on September 23, 2026. Four Lincoln Federal loan officers qualified for Platinum. Three qualified for Silver. Platinum Award Recipients • Christopher M. Elgert — 199 loans totaling $59.2 million • Shane Podliska — 185 loans totaling $52.4 million • Cami Moran — 139 loans totaling $40.9 million • Angie Schwartz — 107 loans totaling $39.1 million Silver Award Recipients • Vasili Sakkas — 53 loans totaling $19.0 million • David Boehle — 61 loans totaling $16.6 million • William Schreiner — 49 loans totaling $15.1 million For Omaha and Lincoln, the Nebraska Mortgage Association’s Platinum qualification requires either 140 loans or $30 million in production. Silver requires either 100 loans or $15 million in total production. “This level of production reflects not only the strength of our mortgage team, but also the relationships they build with customers, real estate professionals and communities across Nebraska.” – Amy Haeffner, Senior Vice President, Chief Mortgage Officer. Congratulations to Chris, Shane, Cami, Angie, Vasili, Dave and Bill on this well-deserved recognition! Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is proud to be Bringing You Home and supporting homebuyers throughout Nebraska for 120 years. Visit lincolnfed. com today!

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Sartor Hamann Jewelers recently added Raegan Jorgensen as their new marketing coordinator. A graduate of Washburn University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, Jorgensen brings her background in communications, marketing and event coordination to this new role. Through those experiences, Jorgensen learned the value of strong communication, organization, teamwork and the ability to adapt in a fast-paced environment. “I’m looking forward to bringing that perspective into my role, connecting with our community, creating engaging marketing opportunities, and helping share the story of what makes Sartor Hamann so special,” explains Jorgensen. “I’m truly excited to be part of such a wonderful team and can’t wait for what’s ahead!” What makes joining Sartor Hamann even more special to her is her personal connection to the company. Jorgensen and her husband recently got married and purchased their wedding rings from Sartor Hamann, so she’s had the opportunity to experience firsthand what makes this company so meaningful from a customer’s perspective. For more information, you can visit sartorhamann.com or email rjorgensen@sartorhamann.com.

Tredz Central Hires Ryan Lile as Store Manager of New Second Location on West O Tredz Central has named Ryan Lile store manager of its Lincoln location, bringing more than 21 years of experience in the tire industry to the company’s growing team. In his role, Lile oversees day-to-day operations at Tredz Central’s Lincoln store and works with the team to serve customers throughout the Lincoln area. His industry experience comes as Tredz Central continues to expand its operations beyond its original location in southeast Nebraska. “What genuinely sets us apart is the people. Every customer gets quality work and a team that genuinely cares about getting it right,” Lile said. Lile’s leadership is part of Tredz Central’s continued growth since the company was founded by Ron and Lisa Preston in 2008. What began as a small tire shop has grown into a 50,000-square-foot, family-owned operation with locations in Cortland and Lincoln. The Lincoln location expands Tredz Central’s presence in the Lincoln business community and adds automotive services and alignments to the company’s established tire, trailer and truck bed offerings. Lile will help lead the location as Tredz Central continues building relationships with customers and businesses throughout the area. “We’re excited to have Ryan leading our Lincoln location,” said Blake Preston, executive vice president. “His experience in the tire industry and commitment to taking care of customers make him a great fit for our team.” For more information, visit tredzcentral.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

PERSONNEL NEWS City Bank & Trust Welcomes Drew Kober as Commercial Lender City Bank & Trust has announced the hiring of Drew Kober as a Commercial Lender. Born and raised in Lincoln, Kober graduated from Lincoln Southwest High School and earned a degree in Finance and Economics from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Kober brings more than ten years of experience in the banking industry, including eight years specializing in commercial lending. He began his career as a teller before advancing to credit analyst and ultimately commercial lender. Recognized for his analytical background, Kober focuses on understanding complex financials, underwriting, and structuring deals. While Kober specializes in commercial real estate transactions, he provides comprehensive banking solutions to support a wide range of client needs.

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Legacy Retirement Communities Welcomes Katie Kranau as Executive Director of Legacy Estates Legacy Retirement Communities is pleased to welcome Katie Kranau, MBA, MSN, RN, as Executive Director of Legacy Estates. With 26 years in nursing, Kranau brings experience and an appreciation for relationships that make a community feel like home. Kranau spent 25 years in hospital care, primarily in cardiac care and the Emergency Department, including 16 years in leadership. Recently, she served as Director of Nursing at a long-term care community in Crete. There, she discovered how meaningful it is to support residents and families through everyday moments and changing needs. “I feel truly honored to lead the Legacy Estates team,” Kranau said. “I’m looking forward to getting to know our residents, families and team members and the culture that makes Legacy Estates such a special place.” Originally from Belden, Nebraska, Kranau earned her nursing diploma from Bryan School of Nursing and later completed a bachelor’s degree and master’s degrees in Nursing Administration and Business Administration at Nebraska Wesleyan University. Kranau believes leadership begins with listening, being present and remembering that people matter. She looks forward to supporting the Legacy Estates team and helping residents feel known, respected and at home. About Legacy Retirement Communities Legacy Retirement Communities is a family-owned organization serving seniors and families for more than 30 years. Legacy offers independent living, assisted living and memory care in Lincoln, Nebraska. To learn more, visit LegacyRetirement.com or call Legacy Estates at (402) 436-3000. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Humanized HR’s President, Dr. Kylie Ensrud, Shared Expertise at Two Recent Events Dr Kylie Ensrud, president of Humanized HR, recently got the chance to speak at two influential events in the Lincoln area. The first, held on Thursday, Sept. 109, DisruptHR, can be found at disrupthr.co/ disrupthr-omaha-6-0-speakers-announced, is a HR event used to educate and empower individuals and leaders in the field. Dr. Kylie Ensrud was one of many featured speakers during this event. The following day, Friday, Sept. 11, she was the Keynote Speaker for the 3rd Annual NE Trailblazers Breakfast. More information can be found at thefoundry.co/news-events/trailblazers/nebraskatrailblazers.html. Kylie Ensrud, Co-Founder, President, and Chief HR Officer of Humanized HR, guided participants through engaging discussions that addressed the key to being a successful leader, the state of the nervous system. The interactive breakfast created meaningful connections between students and business leaders and explored how understanding “Brain Science” can transform the workplace environment, which directly affects team performance and resiliency, all while addressing our state’s pressing brain drain challenge. For more information on Dr. Kylie Ensrud or Humanized HR, please visit humanizedhr.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Scout Expo—Bringing the Community Together Local Scouts from Cornhusker Council are gathering on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 9 a.m. - noon for a Scout Expo, at Woods Park, 33rd & O Streets, giving families and community members a chance to learn more about Scouting and its activities. The event features demonstrations, games, outdoor skills and displays from Scout Units and adult leaders. Visitors can watch Scouts demonstrate skills such as knot tying, first aid and camping techniques. Children of all ages are invited to participate in several hands-on activities, while families could ask questions about joining a Scout Pack or Troop, or becoming involved as volunteers. The Scout Expo will also highlight the importance of teamwork, leadership and community service. Scouts will share examples of service projects they have completed and explain how they work together to help people in their community. The event is designed to show families and the community what Scouting offers beyond traditional camping. The Cornhusker Council hopes the expo will encourage more families to explore Scouting and its opportunities for adventure, friendship and leadership. For more information, visit cornhuskercouncil.org.

October Is National Dyslexia Awareness Month Did you know that roughly 1 in 5 people is affected by dyslexia? As the most common learning disability, dyslexia touches families, classrooms and communities everywhere. Yet despite how common it is, dyslexia is still widely misunderstood. National Dyslexia Awareness Month this October is an opportunity to change that. Dyslexia affects how the brain processes written and spoken language, but it is not a reflection of intelligence, effort or potential. In fact, many individuals with dyslexia are creative thinkers, strong problem-solvers and exceptionally skilled at seeing ideas and solutions from a different perspective. Awareness matters because understanding leads to action. By replacing outdated myths with facts, we can help students feel supported rather than singled out. We can advocate for better teacher training and science-based reading instruction that gives educators the tools to recognize dyslexia earlier and teach students in ways that work for how they learn. Most importantly, we can remind young people with dyslexia that they are not alone—and dyslexia does not define what they can accomplish. At the David Staenberg Family Foundation (DSFF), they believe every student deserves the opportunity and resources to succeed. Through their scholarship fund, they help support dyslexic youth as they pursue their education, build confidence and discover just how much they are capable of achieving. This October, help them turn awareness into opportunity. Support dyslexic youth during National Dyslexia Awareness Month by donating to the David Staenberg Family Foundation Scholarship Fund. For more information, please visit davidstaenbergfamilyfoundation. org.

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Vision Maker Media Celebrates 50 Years of Educating Audiences Vision Maker Media is marking 50 years of bringing Indigenous stories to the screen with its 2026 Film Festival, “Everything is Connected.” All year, films funded by Vision Maker Media illuminate Native American heritage, identity, and community through in-person and online screenings. This month’s in-person spotlight is “Untold Valor,” screening at The Ross theater on October 12. This gripping drama honors the Native American Code Talkers of WWII, whose languages became unbreakable codes that helped secure Allied victory. Stick around for a Q&A with writer/director Ise White, lead actor Joe Garza, and Joe Martinez, grandson of the last surviving Comanche Code Talker. Get free tickets at theross.org. Online, three powerful films focus on identity, resilience, and the lasting impact of historical and contemporary systems on Native communities. “Braids,” “Crossing the Line,” and “Uncovering Boarding Schools: Stories of Resistance and Resilience” reveal how individuals and communities push back against forces that have tried to erase Native identity. Watch now at visionmakermedia.org/education. For younger viewers, October’s iNative Shorts for Kids tells stories about modes of transportation. Drawn from the films “Attla” and “Native Horse,” these episodes show that where you live helps shape how you live. See how dogsleds play a vital role in Alaska and learn of the deep bond between horses and the tribes of the Plains and the Southwest. Watch at youtube.com/@iNativeShortsforKids. OCTOBER 2026 Strictly Business

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NONPROFIT NEWS Goodwill and Gateway Mall to Host Halloween Youth for Christ Announces Vision Gala Events in October October 30th at Venue 5 Twenty-Two Goodwill and Gateway Mall are collaborating for another spook-tacular Halloween and offering three free events to the Lincoln community. First, on October 18, they will host a Make & Take Workshop where attendees will receive craft supplies to create boo-tiful mini ghosts and scarecrows. This workshop is made possible by Goodwill’s Bits and Pieces section in their stores that meet all crafting needs from jewelry to utensils and ribbon to glue. Then, on October 24, four-legged friends are invited to the HowlO-Ween Pet Costume Contest. Prizes and treats will be awarded. Finally, on October 31, join them for a safe and fun Halloween at the Candy Crawl Trick-or-Treat event. Participating stores will hand out treats to all kids ages 12 and under. Reusable tote bags will be available to collect candy. During the event, enter the DIY Costume Contest to win a prize. All events are located in the common area behind Scooter’s at Gateway Mall. To learn more about these events, follow them on Facebook @LincolnGoodwill or visit lincolngoodwill.org. For 94 years, Goodwill Industries Serving Southeast Nebraska, Inc. has been strengthening the Lincoln community by providing services for individuals who face barriers to employment and by offering residents an outlet for recycling unused household items and clothing. For more information, visit lincolngoodwill.org.

Join Youth for Christ and City Impact Friday, October 30th for what promises to be an exciting and encouraging evening as they share what God is doing: reaching Lincoln’s youth through Youth for Christ and City Impact. The reception starts at 6:30 p.m., and dinner at 7:15 p.m. The event will take place at Venue 5 Twenty-Two. Feel free to invite anyone who might be interested in being part of this special event. Jarell Roach serves as a Regional Director with Greater Omaha Youth For Christ and has spent more than half his life investing in young people and their families. A gifted communicator, comedian, and motivational speaker, Jarell has delivered more than 5,000 presentations, opened for nationally known entertainers, and uses his platform to inspire hope while helping organizations raise awareness and support for life-changing causes. Please visit yfclincoln.org/vision-gala to register for the event. At Youth for Christ Lincoln Area, they develop meaningful, Christcentered relationships with young people at pivotal moments in their lives. They walk alongside teens in public schools through their Campus Life ministry, building trust and offering support where students are every day. For more information on Youth for Christ, please visit their website at yfclincoln.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Friendship Home to Host Second Annual Foster Care Closet Kicks Off Fall/Winter Fundraising Event October 22 Mobile Tour and Prepares for 2nd Annual Gala October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and Friendship Home is hosting their second annual fundraising event, Illuminate: Hope Shines Here on Oct. 22. The event is dedicated to raising awareness and generating critical support for survivors of domestic violence and their children. Guests of Illuminate will have the opportunity to eat, drink and mingle with others, and the event features a live auction where guests can bid for donated experiences. Friendship Home invites you to join them for a night of reflection and advocacy at Illuminate on Thursday, Oct. 22, at the Rococo Theatre. Your support helps to meet the growing needs of survivors in Lincoln, and by attending, you will provide a brighter future for those experiencing domestic violence. Tickets are available on their website at friendshiphome.org.

Community Partnerships and Outreach Continue to Bring Awareness to Human Trafficking Disrupting Traffick has received an outpour of support from the c o m m u n i t y t h ro u g h va r i o u s e ve n t s a n d fundraisers. In August, Gold Star ATA Martial Arts headed a women’s and teen self defense course and hygiene drive with all proceeds and supplies benefitting Disrupting Traffick. In August and September, Paige Zutavern with Strictly Business hosted Fashion for Freedom events raising funds for additional support and supplies for Disrupting Traffick’s Safe House. Disrupting Traffick is grateful for the support the community continues to provide to help the organization prevent sexual exploitation through community education, outreach and practical support. Their resource center, located at 1625 N Street, serves as a critical entry point for women and youth facing vulnerability. Disrupting Traffick operates from a simple but powerful belief: traffickers exploit unmet needs, and when those needs are met, prevention begins. By donating to Disrupting Traffick, whether monetarily or through inkind donations, community members receive tangible resources—such as food, clothing and hygiene items. Disrupting Traffick is also able to provide short-term emergency housing through its Safe House. For many, this is the first experience of receiving help without strings attached. Beyond crisis response, Disrupting Traffick offers longterm advocacy and mentorship, fostering healthy relationships that empower survivors to rebuild lives marked by dignity, freedom and hope. To visit them at their next outreach event, please attend Morrow Collision’s Trunk or Treat, Friday, October 23 from 5:30-8 p.m. From 5:30-6 p.m. a special sensory friendly experience is offered. For more information, contact Nichole at nichole@disruptingtraffick. org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Celebrating its 20th anniversary of serving the community, Foster Care Closet of Nebraska has officially launc hed its Fall/Winter Mobile Tour while preparing for its 2nd Annual Tailored for Tomorrow Gala, on Oct. 19, held at Lincoln’s iconic Memorial Stadium. Both initiatives are designed to ensure youth in foster care across Nebraska receive dignified support and essential resources. The Mobile Closet travels statewide to deliver brand-new, seasonal wardrobes directly to foster youth at no cost. These vital mobile services are made possible through community support, anchored by the upcoming Tailored for Tomorrow Gala. This landmark fundraising event at Memorial Stadium raises essential funds to sustain and expand Foster Care Closet’s statewide outreach. Foster Care Closet of Nebraska provides dignity to youth in crisis by providing brand-new clothing and essentials to eligible youth in foster care across the state. Sponsorship opportunities, individual tickets to attend the gala and opportunities to donate silent auction items are currently available. To view the mobile tour schedule, purchase gala tickets, donate auction items or explore sponsorship opportunities, visit fostercarecloset.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS A Stellar October at Branched Oak LMEP Brings Community Leaders to Convene Observatory! at the Youth Behavioral Health Summit: October is shaping up to be an exciting month UNMUTED at Branched Oak Observatory (BOO), with two special events offering unforgettable experiences for the entire family! 12th Annual StarBQ – Sunday, October 11: 5 – 11 p.m. Get ready for an evening of music, fun and spectacular views of the universe at the 12th Annual StarBQ! This year’s celebration promises something for everyone, including live music from The Last Minute Band, exciting raffles featuring a variety of high-quality prizes, including a digital telescope and familyfriendly activities! Visitors can meet and hold “Mike the Meteorite,” a genuine piece of space rock that traveled millions of miles before arriving on Earth. As darkness falls, the astronomers will guide you on an incredible journey across the night sky through the collection of world-class telescopes. Discover distant galaxies, star clusters, planets and celestial wonders as they celebrate another year of bringing the universe closer to the community. Admission is $10 per adult and $5 for children ages 5–12. Children under 5 are FREE! BOO at the BOO – Saturday, October 31: 7 – 10 p.m. Looking for a fun and affordable way to celebrate Halloween with the entire family? Join the for BOO at the BOO! The observatory will transform into a Halloween destination filled with plenty of candy, festive activities and a few “scary” displays. Best of all, admission is $10 per family, regardless of family size! Weather permitting, guests can also enjoy the night sky through telescopes, adding cosmic wonder to their Halloween adventure. Bring your family, invite your friends and join them for two unforgettable October evenings under the stars! For more information, visit theboo.org.

Eating Healthy Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank with the American Heart Association Rising food costs can make healthy eating feel out of reach. In fact, a 2024 American Heart Association and Research America poll found that about 60% of Americans say the cost of healthy food is their biggest barrier to better nutrition. “Food is deeply rooted in family and community, but as grocery prices rise, finding creative ways to stretch your budget while maintaining a nutritious diet is key,” said Amy Roberts, Community Impact Director for the American Heart Association. “Simple swaps, like homemade vinaigrettes instead of bottled dressings, frozen vegetables instead of fresh, or lentils instead of processed meat, can make a big difference without sacrificing flavor.” Here are a few budget-friendly, heart-healthy options: Choose affordable proteins: Beans and legumes provide protein and fiber and work well in soups, salads, dips and stews; tofu and tempeh are versatile, plant-based proteins that are often less expensive than meat; and ground turkey or chicken are lean, lower-cost alternatives to ground beef. Swap in whole grains: Brown rice offers more fiber than white rice; quinoa adds both protein and nutrients; and barley is a hearty whole grain that supports heart health. Embrace canned, dried and frozen foods: Healthy eating doesn’t require buying everything fresh. Frozen fruits and vegetables are picked at peak ripeness and retain valuable nutrients. Canned tuna provides affordable omega-3 fatty acids, and canned or dried foods can help reduce food waste. When shopping, choose low-sodium, no-salt-added and no-sugaradded options when possible. For more budget-friendly recipes and healthy eating tips, visit recipes. heart.org.

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L o c a l a d v o c a t e s , yo u t h leaders, and behavioral health professionals will gather for the inaugural Youth Behavioral Health Summit-UNUMUTED hosted by Marvilee Non-Profit on October 7, 2026. This event starts at 10 a.m. at the Malone Center located at 2110 U Street Court, Lincoln, NE. Designed specifically for high school students from across Lincoln, the summit focuses on empowering young people, inspiring hope, and breaking the persistent stigma surrounding mental health and substance use challenges. Designed as an interactive, communitydriven event, the day will feature inspiring keynote speakers, youth-led panel discussions, collaborative breakout sessions, and a comprehensive community resource fair. Students will delve into the effects of social media use on mental health, receive training on how to use Narcan, learn about suicide prevention and hear from behavioral health professionals who will share their experiences about various career paths in the mental health field. This event is free and open to the public. For more information or to register please visit marvilee.my.canva.site/youth-behavioralhealth-summit.

The Arc of Lincoln Invites Businesses and Community Members to Celebrate Harvest Moon October 15 and Bee You Marketplace November 7 The Arc of Lincoln is inviting businesses and community members to celebrate Harvest Moon 2026: Seeds to Success on Thursday, October 15, at the Scottish Rite Center. As The Arc of Lincoln’s signature annual fundraiser, Harvest Moon celebrates the individuals, families and community partnerships that create opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Tickets are on sale now, and businesses are encouraged to attend with their teams or become a Harvest Moon Partner. Partnerships directly support year-round advocacy, social and recreational programs, family support, youth opportunities and inclusive community experiences. Guests will enjoy dinner, inspiring stories, awards, and live and silent auctions while seeing firsthand the impact of supporting Lincoln’s IDD community. The celebration continues Saturday, November 7, with Honey FunDay featuring the Bee You Marketplace: A Holiday Market with Heart at Morrow Collision South. Honey Sunday has deep Nebraska roots, beginning in Grand Island in 1963 when families raised funds to help pay a special education teacher’s salary. More than 60 years later, The Arc of Lincoln is carrying that sweet tradition forward with Honey FunDay—combining the beloved Honey Sunday tradition with a festive community marketplace. Vendor booths are available, and shoppers are encouraged to attend, shop local and support inclusion. For tickets, partnerships, vendor registration and additional information, visit arclincoln.org, call 402-421-8866, or email info@ arclincoln.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS Get Tickets to Boobfest Fashion Show on October 23 Forty models will be walking on Oct. 23 in the annual Boobfest Fashion Show. Food at the event will be catered by Venue in Lincoln, with a photobooth, DJ and amazing raffle and auction items. With less than 40 tickets left, your chance to support Boobfest is running out, so be sure to get tickets at boobfestlnk.com before they’re gone. The Bosom Collective is looking for a few more auction items and sponsors to complete the event. These opportunities can be found at boobfestlnk.com. Boob Fest began as a dream to celebrate survivors of breast cancer and bridges the gap for women experiencing breast cancer. It has grown into a movement for empowerment and financial support among local Lincoln and Western Nebraska women. The Bosom Collective provides funds for women to travel for treatment, take care of children and support them through every step of the journey. Every moment from fashion to fundraising, is designed to honor the women and stories that inspire us all. The event will be taking place at Suite One Eleven Event Venue, located at 6891 A St. Ste. 111, on October 23rd. For more information or to become a sponsor, visit boobfestlnk.com.

Domestic Violence Awareness & Shop to Stop Domestic Violence Voices of Hope Launches Shop to Stop Domestic Violence During Domestic Violence Awareness Month This October, in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Voices of Hope is partnering with local businesses across Lincoln for Shop to Stop Domestic Violence, a month-long fundraising and awareness campaign supporting survivors and their families. Throughout the four weeks of October, participating businesses will raise critical funds through special promotions, give-back opportunities and community engagement efforts. The campaign provides a meaningful way for businesses and community members to come together to address domestic violence while supporting local commerce. Every dollar raised helps Voices of Hope continue providing free, confidential, trauma-informed services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, trafficking and related forms of violence. Services include crisis intervention, advocacy, support groups, safety planning and community education. Domestic violence impacts individuals and families throughout our community. Shop to Stop Domestic Violence empowers local businesses and residents to take action, raise awareness and invest in a safer future for all. Voices of Hope invites businesses, sponsors, and community members to join this important initiative. Whether through hosting a fundraiser, becoming a campaign partner or shopping with participating businesses, every contribution helps provide hope, healing and support to survivors. To learn more about participating, becoming a sponsor, or supporting the campaign, visit voicesofhopelincoln.org or call (402) 476-2110. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Join Breakthrough T1D for the 2026 Breakthrough T1D Walk (formerly JDRF One Walk) – October 18 Breakthrough T1D is thrilled to bring the Breakthrough T1D Walk back to our local Lincoln comm unity! Join over 1,500 people to help find cures for type 1 diabetes (T1D) at this year’s Breakthrough T1D Walk on Sunday, October 18 at Haymarket Park. The Walk aims to raise awareness for T1D and fund research to cure, treat and prevent T1D and its complications. T1D is an autoimmune disease that is diagnosed in both children and adults and has nothing to do with diet or lifestyle. If you have T1D, your pancreas stops producing insulin—a hormone essential to turning food into energy. This means you must constantly monitor your blood-sugar level, inject or infuse insulin from a pump and carefully monitor your eating and activity every single day. By joining Breakthrough T1D Walk, you become part of a community driving change for those affected by T1D. Together, we raise funds and awareness for type 1 diabetes, fueling progress toward life-changing cures. Register for the Walk today at walk. BreakthroughT1D.org/lincoln! Questions about this event including sponsorship opportunities can be directed to Alex Reed, Development Manager, at (402) 853-0966/ areed@BreakthroughT1D.org. OCTOBER 2026 Strictly Business

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Always Honest. Always Answers. Your trusted full-service auto repair shop in Lincoln, NE

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NONPROFIT NEWS MilkWorks Expands Mom Talk Support Group Museum of American Speed Celebrates Offerings Second Year as Home of the Nebraska BMX Hall of Fame Starting in October, MilkWorks is expanding its Mom Talk support group offerings, giving families more opportunities to connect with other moms, find support and talk openly about the realities of parenting. Weekly Mom Talk has always been a place where moms can come as they are, ask questions, share what is going well and what feels hard, and connect with others who understand. The expanded offerings will create even more opportunities for meaningful connection and conversation. Mom Talk - Community Connect will feature rotating topics and guest speakers, bringing families together to learn and connect around a variety of parenting topics. Mom Talk - Return to Work will continue monthly, offering a supportive space to talk about preparing for the transition back to work or school. MilkWorks will also add Cada Semana Entre Nosotras, a weekly virtual Mom Talk group for Spanish-speaking moms. All Mom Talk groups are led by Postpartum Support International certified facilitators and are free and welcoming with no judgment or expectation that anyone has it all figured out. Families can find current schedules and learn more at milkworks.org/momtalk.html. For more information, contact MilkWorks at 402-502-0617 in Omaha or 402-423-6402 in Lincoln.

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The Museum of American Speed marks its second year as home to the Nebraska BMX Hall of Fame, the nation’s longest-running BMX Hall of Fame. Founded in 2010 by Omaha native Tim Lillethorup, the Hall of Fame honors the racers, industry leaders, and supporters who have shaped BMX in Nebraska. The Museum has dedicated a full exhibit featuring inductee profiles, vintage bikes, uniforms, trophies, and memorabilia. On October 24th, the Museum will host the annual Nebraska BMX Hall of Fame Banquet and Induction Ceremony, honoring BMX icons Stu Thomsen and Mike Miranda, both National BMX Hall of Fame inductees. The day includes a bike show and competition presented by ABSApro, the world’s largest rolling Redline Bikes display from the Rob Lane Collection, a freestyle exhibition by Nebraska’s Nowear team, an autograph signing, and the induction dinner. In 2025, the Museum partnered with Brad and Charlotte Fanshaw to establish the Nebraska Cup, honoring leadership and a lasting commitment to youth activities, mentorship, and community involvement, with a perpetual trophy on permanent display. Founded in 1992 by “Speedy” Bill and Joyce Smith, the Museum of American Speed spans 200,000 square feet and features the Unser Racing Museum, Darryl Starbird Rod & Custom Hall of Fame, Herzog Motorsports, NASCAR, and SCCA Hall of Fame exhibits. Learn more at MuseumofAmericanSpeed.com and NebraskaBMXHallofFame.com.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra Presents Three October Concerts LSO continues its centennial season with a trio of concerts that promise something for everyone. “Mozart & Haydn” on Friday, October 9 at 7:30 p.m. marks a return to Saint Paul United Methodist Church, the venue for LSO’s very first concert in 1927. Repertoire includes Entre’acte: A Minuet & Trio by Caroline Shaw, Mozart’s Bassoon Concerto featuring LSO principal bassoon Dr. Dennis Pearson, and Haydn’s Symphony No. 94 “Surprise”. On Sunday, October 11 at 4:00 p.m. LSO and River City Puppets take to the stage of Kimball Recital Hall for a family concert, “Lou, the Baby Dinosaur.” Be sure to arrive an hour early for family activities like an instrument petting zoo, musical crafts, and more. LSO returns to the Lied Center for Performing Arts on Friday, October 30 at 7:30 p.m. featuring guest conductor Andrew Grams and concertmaster violinist Anton Miller on “Violin Fantasy.” The violin will take centerstage for Bruch’s Scottish Fantasy, and continue with either Grieg’s In the Hall of the Mountain King or Elgar’s Nimrod from “Enigma”, it’s up to the audience to decide which! The program will close with Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8. Tickets are available at lincolnsymphony.com or by calling the box office at (402) 476-2211.

Fresh Start’s Tickets on Sale Now for Final Project Funway, Celebrate With Us: 35 Years of Empowering Women Fresh Start is excited to announce that tickets are now on sale for our annual fundraising event, Project Funway: The 16th and Final Walk, on Friday, October 30 at The Lincoln Cornhusker Marriott. This year’s theme is Design | Transform | Overcome. Project Funway offers something for everyone: - Design a Runway Outfit – Thrift or upcycle finds and redesign them to fit the theme of personal transformation, then showcase them on the runway – all ages welcome! Enter at freshstarthome. org/events/be-a-designer. - Fill Our Silent Auction – Items, tickets, baskets, goods, services, or unique experiences are all welcome. Donate at freshstarthome. org/events/silent-auction-donations. - Buy Your Ticket(s) – Come one, come all! For more FUN: grab seven of your most FUN friends and get a VIP table – this is the perfect venue to wear those feathers, glitter, and sequins hiding in your wardrobe! Project Funway is a competitive fashion show that benefits Fresh Start, featuring outfits created by UNL TMFD designers and open to community designers. The exciting silent auction, wine pull, Daisy Shop pop-up boutique, and voting for your favorite designs all support the women of Fresh Start. Light appetizer buffet, cash bar available. Fresh Start provides a safe home and programs for women ages 19+ who are experiencing homelessness. They are a transitional shelter in Lincoln celebrating our 35th year. They are the only National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR)-certified organization in Nebraska. Visit the event website or contact Angie Taylor, Development & Volunteer Coordinator, at angiet@freshstarthome.org for more information. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS YMCA of Lincoln to Hold Sixth Annual Coat United Way Announces 2026 Annual Drive for People’s City Mission Community Wide Campaign As winter approaches, many in the community face the harsh realities of Nebraska’s cold season without adequate protection. For the sixth consecutive year, the YMCA of Lincoln is stepping up to provide warmth through its annual Winter Coat Drive, benefiting People’s City Mission. From October 1–21, all Lincoln YMCA locations will serve as drop-off sites for new or gently used coats. Since the coat drive’s inception, over 11,000 coats have been collected and distributed, thanks to the incredible generosity of YMCA members and the broader Lincoln community. “No one in our community should have to face a Nebraska winter without a warm coat,” shared Renee Yost, President & CEO of the YMCA of Lincoln. “We are grateful for the opportunity to work alongside People’s City Mission and our community to help meet such an important need for our neighbors.” The drive will take place October 1-21 at all Lincoln YMCA Locations, with a kick-off coat distribution at PCM’s Help Center on Friday, November 6th. Additional drop off locations, as well as more information about the coat drive, can be found at YMCALincoln.org/events/wintercoat-drive.

United Way of Lincoln and Lancaster County and CHAD (Combined Health Agencies Drive) officially kicked off their 2026 community giving campaign in September with the theme “United in Something Bigger.” Unity uplifts the entire community and serves as an invitation to address the most urgent needs in Lincoln and Lancaster County. Chairs for the 2026 campaign, John and Jody Olsson, announced the goal of raising $6.1 million in order to support over 60 local health and human services organizations closing gaps across the community. Thirty-three Pacesetter organizations along with nearly 100 community members already have helped raise just over $2.8 million towards the goal. Following on the heels of the announcement, United Way mobilized over 375 volunteers for Day of Caring, a day of service across the community, presented by Black Hills Energy. Caring community members painted, cleaned, landscaped, prepared meals, and read to students. These individual efforts represent a movement of hope building a community where individuals and families have the opportunity to thrive. United Way strengthens the community by opening up pathways to opportunity in the areas of Healthy Community, Youth Opportunity, Financial Security and Community Resiliency. For more information and to get involved, visit unitedwaylincoln.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Lincoln Sports Foundation Encourages Lincoln Residents to Book Pickleball Courts Pickleball can be a great activity to do with friends and family that gets your heart racing. Following recent indoor court renovations, Lincoln Sports Foundation now has 18 indoor pickleball courts and is partnering with Pickleball Lincoln to help expand year-round indoor pickleball opportunities in Lincoln. As Nebraska’s largest nonprofit sports complex, LSF is home to 31 different sports and activities and welcomes more than 500,000 visitors annually. You can book a pickleball court anytime from Monday-Friday, during the hours of 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. at playtimescheduler.com. You can learn more about Lincoln Sports Foundation at lsfcampus.org.

Matt Talbot Partners with SCC’s Culinary Arts Program A par tnership between Southeast Community College and Matt Talbot Kitchen & Outreach is giving culinary students hands-on experience while helping prepare nutritious meals for people experiencing food insecurity in Lincoln. Students in Chef Abby Hoch’s Culinary/ Hospitality Management classes put their skills to work in the Matt Talbot kitchen, using ingredients available that day such as donated produce, proteins, and other items, to prepare complete meals that serve 150-175 guests. “For students, it provides an engaging opportunity to step outside of the classroom labs and showcase their skills and talents,” said Chef Abby. “Through this experience, they recognize the value of using their abilities to positively impact the community.” The partnership also provides a valuable benefit to Matt Talbot and its guests. “We love the creativity and enthusiasm the SCC students bring into our kitchen,” said Alynn Sampson, Matt Talbot’s Executive Director. “Their ability to take the ingredients we have on hand and turn them into delicious, nutritious meals helps us stretch our food budget while providing a real treat for our guests.” The experience gives students an opportunity to put their culinary and hospitality skills into practice while learning firsthand how creativity, flexibility, and teamwork can make a difference in the community. Matt Talbot serves lunch and dinner 365 days a year and operates as a day shelter Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., with extended hours during heat advisories. Guests can access meals, showers, laundry, mail services, and connections to housing, substance use treatment, and other supportive services. Matt Talbot’s Fresh Choice Pantry provides free groceries to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. The pantry is open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 1–3 p.m. and Thursdays from 5–6:30 p.m. Learn more at mtko.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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18th Annual YMCA of Lincoln Turkey Trot Returns to Downtown Lincoln Thanksgiving Day The YMCA of Lincoln Turkey Trot presented by Union Bank & Trust is celebrating its 18th year as a community tradition on Thanksgiving morning. This year’s family-friendly event takes place November 26 and features a 5K Race, 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk, and a free Tot Trot in downtown Lincoln at the Railyard. A virtual option is available for those who want to participate from home! Registration is only available online at ymcalincoln.org/turkeytrot26. Early registration is open through November 22. Late registration is open November 23-26 at 7:30 a.m. Entries for the 1-Mile and 5K events on or before November 22 will receive a t-shirt. Event proceeds support the YMCA’s Open Doors Financial Assistance Program, which helps make Y memberships and programs affordable for all, and ensures families, kids, adults, and seniors have the opportunity to be safe, healthy, and strong. Registration information: 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk: $22/person or $80/family (up to five members) 5K: $37/person Event schedule: 7:45 a.m. | Tot Trot 8:00 a.m. | 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk 8:30 a.m. | 5K Race 9:15 a.m. | Awards The Turkey Trot will go on as scheduled in rain, snow, or cold weather!

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NONPROFIT NEWS Help St. Monica’s Put the FUN in Recovery!

At St. Monica’s Behavioral Health Services, recovery is about more than treatment. It is also about helping women rediscover joy, build healthy connections and learn what it means to have fun in recovery. For women living in residential treatment, finding new ways to spend free time can be an important part of building a life without substances. Whether it’s painting a canvas, putting together a puzzle, playing a board game with others or heading outside for a game of volleyball, these activities provide opportunities for creativity, connection and, most importantly, sober fun. St. Monica’s is asking the community to help by donating new or gently used art supplies, games, lawn and outdoor activities, sports balls and equipment, puzzles, and arts and crafts supplies of all kinds. Items that may be sitting unused in a closet, basement or garage could find a new purpose in the hands of a woman working toward recovery. Keeping hands and minds busy can provide a healthy outlet for stress while helping participants discover new hobbies and interests they can carry with them beyond treatment. Sometimes, something as simple as a deck of cards, a basketball or a box of art supplies can create an opportunity to laugh, connect and experience joy. St. Monica’s welcomes donations from individuals, businesses, churches and community organizations throughout the year and is happy to arrange pickup of new or gently used items. To learn more about St. Monica’s Behavioral Health Services or how you can support women on their journey toward life-changing recovery, visit stmonicas.com or contact C. Leigh Hellbusch, Director of Development.

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Angels Among Us Celebrates 20 Years of Impact, but We’re Not Done Yet

As Q4 begins and the year draws to a close, Angels Among Us wants to share why this moment matters so much for the families we serve. Approximately every four days, a Nebraska family will hear, “Your child has cancer,” and the fallout extends far beyond the hospital room. Within weeks, PTO and vacation days run out. One parent is often forced to leave a job or scale back significantly. This disruption to “normal life” creates an immediate financial crisis on top of an unimaginable emotional one. That’s where Angels Among Us comes in. Since 2006, they’ve provided financial and emotional support to pediatric cancer families living in or being treated in Nebraska. Within days of receiving and approving an application, Angels Among Us begins providing direct monthly assistance towards housing, utilities, car payments and other critical bills — paid directly to creditors so donor dollars go exactly where they’re needed. As the cost of living has climbed, so has their response. Just two years ago, the 2024 assistance levels were $550 and $850 a month. As of July 2026, they raised the monthly assistance levels to $700 and $1,400, so families can better keep pace with the real financial pressures of fighting this disease. This year marks their 20th anniversary, and your year-end gift is needed more than ever to help sustain and expand support for the 120-plus Nebraska families they expect to serve in 2026. Behind the numbers and statistics is a family trying to hold it together. You can make a difference for these families when they need it most. As you finalize your year-end giving plans, please consider joining them and making an impact. Learn more at myangelsamongus.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Inaugural Lincoln CBMC Men’s Retreat a Big Salt Mine City Brewing Hosts Fashion for Success Freedom Clothing Sale for Disrupting Traffick The first annual Lincoln CBMC Men’s Retreat was held at Camp Solaris near Firth, Nebraska September 11-13 and attracted nearly fifty men from the LincolnOmaha area. The retreat featured guest speaker Chris Simpson, a former Marine and Senior Special Agent with the U.S. Secret Service for twenty-three years. Simpson is President and CEO of CBMC International, the world’s largest evangelical marketplace ministry present in more than ninety nations. The retreat included worship, messages by CBMC members, discussion groups, and fellowship around a firepit. Attendees also enjoyed an extremely challenging high ropes course and target shooting with BB pistols. The retreat concluded with a special commissioning service with worship and a concluding message by Chris Simpson. The talks by Simpson and retreat highlights are available on the Lincoln CBMC YouTube channel (@cbmclincoln4559). Info about Lincoln CBMC is available at lincoln.cbmc.com.

Lincoln Community Foundation Awards More than $2.7 Million to Nonprofits Thanks to the foresight a n d generosity of donors who have established designated funds with the Lincoln Community Foundation, more than $2.7 million was distributed to 228 nonprofit organizations, 133 of which are located in Lancaster County. These endowed funds are established to support the charities and houses of worship that are meaningful to donors – providing reliable, annual funding to the organizations they care about most. “It is a great honor to serve as a connector between donors and the charities they wish to support forever,” said President Tracy Edgerton. “These gifts will continue to grow through the power of endowment and sage financial management and investment by our team.” As a simple and effective philanthropic tool, designated funds ensure lasting support, helping local nonprofits grow, adapt and thrive for generations to come. As one nonprofit leader shared, “This generosity provides more than financial support – it brings stability, encouragement and the ability to plan for the future with confidence. Knowing that we can rely on this support year after year allows us to focus on what matters most: making a meaningful and lasting difference in people’s lives.” About Lincoln Community Foundation Through partnerships and collaboration, Lincoln Community Foundation (LCF) facilitates positive change for the common good. Since 1955, LCF has been privileged to be part of many wonderful legacies by connecting donor generosity to local needs. With gifts of all sizes from thousands of donors over the years, the assets of LCF have grown to more than $293 million. LCF has distributed more than $288 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that have improved the lives of residents. Lincoln Community Foundation is accredited by the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations®. To learn more, visit LCF.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

This past September, Salt Mine City Brewing, in partnership with Disrupting Traffick, hosted a clothing sale in downtown Lincoln at the restaurant to support the Nebraska nonprofit. Disrupting Traffick provides crisis stabilization and tangible resources to women and youth who are at risk of being trafficked or are currently experiencing trafficking. Any items not sold during the Fashion for Freedom sale will be donated to the Disrupting Traffick Resource Center, ensuring every piece of clothing, pair of shoes, piece of jewelry, belt or bag can be put to use. Established in 2022, Salt Mine City Brewing started with a vision to brew great beer with great friends and share it with the community. Its goal is to brew great beer for Lincoln’s growing community while providing a go-to spot for food and drinks. For more information about Salt Mine City Brewing or Disrupting Traffick, visit saltminecity.com or disruptingtraffick. org.

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Strictly Business OCTOBER 2026

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NONPROFIT NEWS Foundry’s Healing Nebraska: Talent Meets Innocence Freed Expands Support for Human Need Sees Unforeseen Turnout Trafficking Survivors The Foundry is still riding the high from last month’’s Healing Nebraska: Talent Meets Need event! They had an unprecedented number of students attend this inaugural event, and are beyond grateful for the opportunity to bring behavioral and mental health topics to the next generation of trailblazers. Healing Nebraska: Talent Meets Need highlighted the impactful work of the Foundry’s Healthy Nebraska Summer 2026 Intern Foundry Cohort and their host organizations, all the while exploring the depth of the field of behavioral health right here in our beautiful state. Students and professionals alike walked away having engaged in meaningful conversations about what it means to live in a climate where the importance of mental and behavioral health awareness is invaluable. Healing Nebraska heard from National Association of Behavioral Health Organizations’ Executive Director, Nicki Behmer-Popp, and facilitated important discussions about mental health because we know the future of mental and behavioral health rests in the hands of our emerging generations, who will make all the difference. In partnership with UNMC, BHECN, UNL Honors, and Abbott, Intern Foundry Coordinator Merrick Mason did an amazing job organizing this event, providing students with an opportunity to engage in important discussions, explore career options, and create community within the first few weeks of the school year. To learn more about Intern Foundry and its purpose-driven events, visit thefoundry.co or email hello@thefoundry.co.

Innocence Freed is dedicated to bridging the gap for child and adult survivors of human trafficking by providing ongoing, trauma-informed support and practical resources as survivors work toward healing, stability and independence. Innocence Freed offers in-person and online support groups, trauma-focused groups, Bible study and lifeskills classes to help survivors build healthy relationships, develop practical skills and continue their healing journey. Through the Clothed in Grace Boutique, survivors can access clothing and personal necessities in a private, confidential environment designed to restore dignity and confidence. Innocence Freed is also preparing to open a drop-in center, providing survivors with a safe place to access resources, basic necessities, support and connection. Housing is also coming soon, creating another important step toward safety and stability for survivors. “Our goal is to walk alongside survivors, not just during a crisis, but throughout the journey of rebuilding their lives,” said Julie Shrader, Founder and CEO of Innocence Freed. “We believe survivors deserve to be heard, supported, valued, and given the opportunity to move forward.” About Innocence Freed Innocence Freed is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bridging the gap for child and adult survivors of human trafficking through support, education, advocacy, and trauma-informed programs that help survivors move toward healing and independence. For more information, please visit innocencefreed.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Nebraska Diaper Bank Receives $25,000 to Willard Community Center Receives Expand Diaper Access in Lincoln Foundation Support for Early Explorers Expansion Nebraska Diaper Bank (NDB) has received $25,000 in grants from two Lincoln-area grant makers, Lincoln Community Foundation and Duncan Aviation Family Trust, to help more families access essential diapers. Lincoln Community Foundation awarded NDB a $15,000 Open Door Grant to support the organization’s continued expansion in Lincoln. Duncan Aviation Family Trust awarded an additional $10,000 to support NDB’s work providing diapers to babies and families in the capital city. An estimated 4,018 Lincoln babies under age 3 are at risk of diaper need. Diapers are a basic need that is not covered by most public assistance programs. “No parent should have to choose between diapers and other essentials their family needs,” said Tegan Reed, executive director of Nebraska Diaper Bank. “We are grateful for the support of these generous grant makers, which will help ensure more families can access the diapers they need.” Through its community partnerships, NDB supplies diapers to trusted organizations that distribute them directly to families. They already serve 950 babies who receive diapers through five partners in the Lincoln area. These grants move NDB closer to its goal of distributing 1 million diapers annually in Lincoln by the end of 2027. To learn more, visit nebraskadiaperbank.org.

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The Cooper Foundation awarded Willard Community Center $20,000, while the Abel Foundation provided a $10,000 grant toward the expansion. These investments are helping Willard meet a growing need for quality infant and toddler care in southwest Lincoln. Previously serving children ages 3–5, Early Explorers expanded in 2026 to provide care beginning at six weeks of age. The expansion added an infant classroom with capacity for eight children and a toddler classroom serving up to 12 children, allowing Willard to provide continuous early childhood care for children from infancy through age five. Grant funding from The Cooper Foundation and Abel Foundation is helping offset the significant costs associated with the expansion, including classroom furnishings, equipment, curriculum, supplies, facility improvements, and other expenses necessary to create safe, nurturing, developmentally appropriate learning environments for Willard’s youngest children. Willard Community Center’s Early Explorers program now serves children ages six weeks through five years, providing a safe and supportive environment where children can learn, grow, and build a strong foundation for future success. For more information, please visit willardcommunitycenter.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Keep Nebraska Beautiful Hosts 30th Annual The Sowers Club of Lincoln Continues Golf Tournament Commitment to Community Giving Keep Nebraska Beautiful (KNB) is excited to share that their 30th annual Golf For The Environment Tournament, hosted on Sept. 10 at Woodland Hills Golf Course in Eagle, Nebraska was a resounding success! Keep Nebraska Beautiful thanks all players, sponsors, volunteers and supporters who made this event possible! One hundred fourteen golfers enjoyed a breakfast and Bloody Mary Bar before the 9 a.m. shotgun start. They experienced the beauty of Woodland Hills Golf Course, were serenaded with bagpipe playing, received treat bags with complimentary gifts, participated in the raffle and even captured the moment with complimentary team photos. This foursome scramble tournament featured exciting hole contest classics and this year’s newest collab with Back Swing’s “Can you beat the lady pro” contest! After the round, players heard from KNB’s CEO and Board President while enjoying a catered lunch. After participating in a small live auction, the announcement of raffle winners, hole prizes and tournament winners was held! This is Keep Nebraska Beautiful’s largest fundraiser of the year, and all its proceeds go toward upholding their mission to enhance, preserve and beautify Nebraska by developing and managing programs and partnerships with statewide affiliates, private industry leaders and citizens who share a passion for the environment. The Golf For The Environment Tournament will fund KNB’s programs to further their vision of a clean, green and beautiful Nebraska. To see this year’s tournament winners or for info on next year’s tournament, visit knb.org/golf-tournament.

The Foundry to Host the Lilly School of Philanthropy Fund Raising School Nov. 3-6 Lilly School of Philanthropy’s Fund Raising School is the gold standard for fundraising, and they’re ecstatic to be bringing it to you right here at the Foundry! From Tuesday, Nov. 3 through Friday, Nov. 6, a faculty of expert fundraisers and scholars who are at the forefront of the industry will provide a research-based framework for fundraising success by bridging the gap between theory and practical nonprofit application. Lilly’s curriculum is built on original data and proven methodologies, ensuring that every strategy is evidence-based and tailored to the evolving philanthropic landscape and your unique nonprofit’s needs. There are only 20 spots available for organizations! Attending all 4 days is required. What’s Included: The Fund Raising School, from November 3-6 all day. Lunch will be provided the first day. It is $250 to send 1 person and $350 to send 2 people. *Note: The normal cost for The Fund Raising School is $1,500 per person + travel costs. Thanks to a generous grant from the Sherwood Foundation, the Foundry can provide this state-of-the-art fundraising education for a significant discount. That’s a 75%+ discount! Also included are follow-up workshops with the NE Nonprofit Management Institute from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Jan. 27, Mar. 3, and Apr. 7 2027. Lunch will be provided at each workshop. Organizations that did not participate in The Fund Raising School but are interested in these workshops can send up to 3 people per organization for $200. There are only 10 spots available! To register, email thefoundry.co. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

The Sowers Club of Lincoln has donated over $4 million dollars to improve the lives of Nebraskans and promote pride throughout the state. Their focus is on youth, food insecurities, the underprivileged and education. You will see them at the Lincoln Veteran’s Parade with their Balloon on Nov. 15 handing out American Flags. The Sowers Club shows their commitment of sowing goodwill through charity to support the Lincoln community and our children by being a financial pillar and helping hand in these organizations. And because of organizations like The Sowers Club of Lincoln, BraveBe, Crimestoppers, Clinic with a Heart, Orphan Grain Train, and We Can Do This, they can continue their crucial work for the community. For more information on The Sowers Club of Lincoln, you can visit thesowersclub.com or the Sowers Club Facebook page. Office Space available in The Sowers Building at 1701 S. 17th street in Lincoln. Call Valerie at (402) 438-2244 for details.

Ready to Grow as a Leader and Help Others Do the Same with CBMC Lincoln? Lincoln Christian Businessmen’s Connection (CBMC) will host a Leadership Coach Training workshop on Tuesday, October 20 at their office at 4435 O Street. In this 7-week course, you’ll learn how to coach others in a meaningful, Christ-centered way through one-onone, real-life conversations that lead to growth, change, and purpose. Here’s what you’ll learn: • How to coach someone in a one-on-one setting that’s all about real growth, not just surface fixes. • How to listen well, ask powerful questions, and help people move forward in life, faith, and leadership. • How to build your own coaching style using tools trusted by pro coaches—but rooted in your faith. You’ll also discover how to help others get clear on what really matters to them, set goals and make a real plan to go after them, navigate the messy, in-between seasons of life and leadership and learn to listen for God’s voice and direction. This isn’t just another leadership course. Whether you’re already leading or want to learn to lead, this course will help you grow the skills and confidence to make a real impact - in your own life and in the lives of others. Spaces is limited, so check it out before it fills up. For info, go to lincoln.cbmc.com/events or contact Garrett Garner at ggarner@ cbmc.com. CBMC equips men to grow personally, professionally, and spiritually. For information go to Lincoln CBMC on Facebook or LinkedIn or visit Lincoln.cbmc.com or call (402) 204-1997. OCTOBER 2026 Strictly Business

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NONPROFIT NEWS CLIA and New Start Cleaning Set to Host Sip Nebraska Sports Council Building for the and Paint Dia de Muertos Event on Oct. 21 Future with Endowment CLIA is the only nonprofit in Lincoln that offers direct legal immigration services. Their team consists of attorneys, paralegals, representatives and support staff that is committed to helping immigrants and refugees in Nebraska. Coco Chairez, owner of New Start Cleaning in Lincoln, is a member of the board along with the Latino Network group. They are partnering with CLIA to raise money with a Dia de Muertos or Day of the Dead Sip and Paint guided by artist Kendra Limon at Neveria La Monarca from 6 to 8 p.m. on Oct. 21. The proceeds from the event will go towards CLIA to help benefit their organization and bring help to immigrants and refugees in need in Nebraska. For more information on the event, scan the QR code or visit clianeb.networkforgood.com.

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The Nebraska Sports Council is investing in the future of healthy, active lifestyles in Nebraska through the Nebraska Spor ts Council Endowment, a long-term initiative designed to provide sustainable support for the organization’s mission. Established in 2023, the Nebraska Sports Council Endowment has a $1 million fundraising goal and has already received $224,000 in pledges. The endowment is intended to create a lasting financial resource that will help ensure Nebraska Sports Council programs remain accessible and continue serving Nebraskans for generations to come. For more than 40 years, the Nebraska Sports Council has promoted healthy and active lifestyles through events and programs that bring people together through sports and recreation. Today, its programs serve more than 30,000 Nebraskans each year through opportunities for competition, fitness and community connection. “An endowment allows us to think beyond the next event or next year,” said Dave Mlnarik, President of the Nebraska Sports Council. “It gives us an opportunity to build a stronger financial foundation so we can continue providing opportunities for Nebraskans to be active and engaged well into the future.” The Nebraska Sports Council Endowment provides individuals, families and businesses with an opportunity to make a lasting investment in the health and well-being of Nebraska communities. Contributions will help strengthen the organization’s ability to sustain and grow its programs for future generations. To learn more about the Nebraska Sports Council Endowment or how to contribute, visit NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.

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STRICTLY BUSINESS UPCOMING EVENTS

FRIENDS FRIENDS

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our most recent Friends4Lunch event at Strictly Business Magazine at Tipsy Tina’s Taco Cantina! With over 140 tequilas, handcrafted street-style tacos, and all scratch-made salsas and dips, this vibrant spot is perfect for happy hour, game day or late-night cravings. Friendly vibes, fast service and unforgettable flavor, Tipsy Tina’s is where Lincoln goes to spice things up. Every visit to Tipsy Tina’s provides a lively atmosphere to catch up with friends, colleagues and make new connections. Friends4Lunch events provide a casual setting for business owners, professionals, nonprofit leaders and community members to connect, learn more about Lincoln’s business and nonprofit community and get to know Strictly Business as a publication. These events are completely free to attend. Guests simply pay for their own food and beverages. Whether you’re a longtime attendee or joining us for the first time, anyone who enjoys supporting and connecting with the Lincoln community is welcome. For our October Friends4Lunch event, we are hitting a new restaurant in Lincoln: Slim Chickens, park of Midwest Slims, LLC. on Thursday, Oct. 8 at 11:30 a.m. Slim Chicken’s mission is to make the best hand-breaded chicken tenders using only the freshest ingredients, served in a friendly atmosphere where guests can relax and feel at home. Their timetested recipe has become a household favorite, locking in flavor with their southern-style buttermilk marinade, and lightly breaded by hand with every order. The Slims menu features fried or grilled chicken tenders, wings, salads, wraps, sandwiches, chicken & waffles, southern sides, and their famous jar desserts. Slims menu features some non-traditional sides including Fried Okra, Fried Pickles, Fried Mushrooms and a variety of SWEET & flavored iced teas! These events provide a casual setting for guests, business owners or anyone else to learn more about the Lincoln business and nonprofit scene as well as Strictly Business as a publication. 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. And as a reminder: support local restaurants, organizations and businesses. This is what helps keep our local Lincoln community strong, connected and more aware of the things this great city has to offer!

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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.

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LINCOLN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE by Jason Ball President & CEO

(402) 436-2350 www.lcoc.com

Investing in Lincoln’s Business Community Jason Ball, President & CEO – Lincoln Chamber of Commerce October is a big month for supporting Lincoln’s business community. From investing in early-stage entrepreneurs to strengthening the workforce and preparing for growth in emerging industries, several initiatives this month are helping build a stronger economic future for Lincoln. One of those initiatives is LaunchLNK, the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development’s startup grant program. Applications are open through October 16 for six early-stage companies to receive $20,000 grants to help grow their businesses in Lincoln and turn promising ideas into reality. But the support doesn’t stop with the grant. Each recipient will receive a total prize package valued at over $43,000, including valuable services and expertise from LaunchLNK’s corporate partner network: Artillery Media, CodeBuddy, Don’t Panic Labs, Eakes Office Solutions, Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, Suiter Swanz IP, The Combine, Venture Best and Careerpathway.com. By combining funding with access to experienced business leaders, specialized services and valuable connections, LaunchLNK gives entrepreneurs the tools and resources they need to move their businesses forward. And the results speak to the program’s impact: previous LaunchLNK graduates have gone on to raise more than $115 million in follow-on funding, demonstrating the strength of Lincoln’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and the potential of investing in its next generation of businesses. Visit launchlnk.com to learn more. October is also National Manufacturing Month, an opportunity to recognize the significant role manufacturing plays in Lincoln’s economy and workforce — and the work underway to ensure local manufacturers have the talent they need to grow. The Lincoln Manufacturing Class, developed through the Lincoln Manufacturing Council, has had tremendous success preparing participants to explore careers in the manufacturing industry. This program is strengthening Lincoln’s workforce by connecting people with career opportunities while helping local manufacturers build a stronger talent pipeline. The program’s effectiveness in introducing participants to careers in the industry also helped inspire a new initiative: the Lincoln Bioscience Council. Modeled after the Lincoln Manufacturing Council, the Lincoln Bioscience Council focuses on strengthening Lincoln’s life sciences industries and building awareness of career opportunities within the sector. Its first program, Bioscience 101, begins this month and will take place over four nights at Southeast Community College. Together, these efforts demonstrate what is possible when Lincoln’s business community invests in people, ideas and industries. LaunchLNK is helping entrepreneurs turn promising ideas into growing companies. The Lincoln Manufacturing Class is connecting people with careers that support local industry and the Lincoln Bioscience Council is taking that workforce-development model into a growing sector of Lincoln’s economy. October provides a timely opportunity to celebrate these investments, as well as the businesses, entrepreneurs and community partners working together to create a stronger, more prosperous future for Lincoln.

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

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

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Good software starts with knowing the people who will use it. At Parse Software, we work alongside business owners and their teams to understand how things actually get done. We ask questions, listen to the people doing the work and learn where things get difficult. That understanding shapes what we build. You get to know the people working on your software, and we get to know your business. Our goal is to become a trusted part of your team, bringing technical experience to the decisions you face every day. For a Nebraska marketing company, we built a custom app to manage their workflows, saving the team hundreds of hours of manual work.

For a Nebraska child welfare provider, we built an app that lets staff document visits once in the field and automatically generates reports for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. Each business needs something different. We might connect tools you already use, replace a process your team has outgrown or build something entirely new. The technology follows the need. You stay involved throughout, seeing progress, trying things out and helping guide the next step. As your business changes, you have a team you can call who already understands the context. Based in Lincoln, we value getting to know the businesses and people around us. If something in your business is harder than it should be, let’s talk about it.

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DOWNTOWN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION Count on us for EVERY Season (402) 434-6900 by Todd Ogden, President

www.downtownlincoln.org

Discover Bibimbop: A Fresh Taste of Korean Food and Culture in Lincoln Since opening its doors in August 2026, Bibimbop Korean Rice Bowl has quickly become a soughtafter destination for food lovers looking to explore Korean cuisine in Lincoln. Owners Jimmy Lee and Min Soo Park bring their passion for Korean food and culture to O Street, serving flavorful interpretations of traditional favorites alongside a fun, modern dining experience. “It’s a build your own bowl, kind of place,” Lee said. At the heart of Bibimbop’s menu is its customizable Korean Rice Bowl. Diners can choose their bowl size, white or fried rice, potato and/ or japchae, and a protein such as bulgogi, spicy pork, or chicken. Of course, the rice bowls aren’t the only reason to visit. Bibimbop serves a variety of Korean favorites, including Bibimbap, Kimbap, and Tteokbokki, along with mouthwatering renditions of classic Vietnamese Pho. To add to the fun, diners can have their food delivered to the table by the restaurant’s friendly robots. The combination of technology, traditional flavors, and modern design gives Bibimbop an experience that’s as memorable as the food itself. And don’t forget to leave room for a little fun after your meal. With a Photo Booth and an Inhyung bbopkki (toy crane machine), Bibimbop offers plenty of opportunities to make memories with friends and family. Whether you’re craving a build-your-own Korean Rice Bowl, curious about trying Tteokbokki or Kimbap, or simply looking for a unique new place to gather, Bibimbop Korean Rice Bowl offers a delicious and entertaining introduction to Korean food and culture. Stop by, build your bowl, explore something new, and enjoy an experience that brings traditional Korean influences together with a distinctly modern twist.

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

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LINCOLN INDEPENDENT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

www.liba.org

(402) 432-1370

Dispelling the Mythical Narratives Surrounding Rising Property Taxes For years, perhaps decades, City Hall has reminded taxpayers that it has “not raised taxes.” In reality, what city officials are really saying is that they have not increased the property tax levy rate. Those are not the same thing. The distinction matters because it has contributed to one of the most persistent myths in local government: that rising property tax bills are primarily the result of increasing valuations. Increasing property valuations do not automatically necessitate an increase in property tax collections. This myth resurfaced recently when Lincoln Chief Communications Officer Garrett Swanson stated that increases in City property tax revenue are “almost exclusively due to valuation increases from the Lancaster County Assessor’s Office.” Which is a patently incomplete, if not inaccurate statement. The Lancaster County Assessor has one primary responsibility: to determine and certify the taxable valuation of property within Lancaster County. The assessor does not set the City budget, determine the City’s property tax request, or decide how much property tax revenue will be collected. Those decisions belong exclusively to the Mayor and the Lincoln City Council. The property tax request approved through the Mayor’s budget proposal and adopted by the City Council determines how large the overall bill will be. The Assessor’s valuations merely affect how the bill is divided among taxpayers. That is exactly why blaming rising tax collections on the assessor is misleading. In the City of Lincoln: • In 2020, City property tax collections equaled ~$76.7 million. • By 2025, City property tax collections had grown to ~ $113.6 million. • That represents an increase of nearly $37 million annually, or 48.1%, over five years. During that same period, the City levy rate actually declined from 0.3198 to 0.295329. Yet despite the lower levy, the City collected substantially more property tax revenue each year because City budgets continued to require more and more property tax dollars. Taxpayers have repeatedly heard statements such as: Mayor’s Proposed Budget Closes Revenue Gap With No Property Tax Increase City of Lincoln Mayor’s Office, June 2020 “We remained steadfast in our commitment to…. without increasing the property tax rate.” Nebraska Public Media, June 2026 “The city will not be raising taxes in this proposed plan...” KLKN, August 2025 Taxpayers don’t care about a levy rate – they care about what is taken out of their pocket. And these headlines lead them to believe that City government was collecting the same amount of property tax revenue. The numbers tell a different story. Between 2020 and 2025: • The City’s levy rate fell approximately 7.7%. • Taxable valuation increased approximately 60%. • City property tax collections increased approximately 48%. Taxpayers should be less concerned about an increase in valuation and FAR more concerned with “Why did City government choose to collect nearly $37 million more in annual property tax revenue than it did just five years ago?” The answer to that question is found at City Hall, not in the Assessor’s Office.

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

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT The holiday season is a time for celebration, gratitude and making memories, and businesses have an opportunity to bring those traditions into the workplace. From finding the perfect venue and catering a memorable meal to choosing gifts and activities for employees and their families, planning a holiday gathering can be a great way to show appreciation for the people who help make a business successful. Inviting employees to celebrate with their spouses and children can make the occasion even more meaningful. When employees and their families feel valued and connected to the company, it can help build stronger relationships, boost morale and create a greater sense of investment in the workplace. A well-planned holiday party is more than an end-of-year celebration. It is an opportunity to thank employees for their hard work, recognize their contributions and encourage them to feel like an important part of the team. As the holiday season fills up tee times and bays at The Back Nine, it’s a good idea to plan ahead when booking. Bays should be reserved two to three days in advance, while holiday events should be booked at least two to three weeks ahead, especially for those interested in reserving three bays or the entire facility. Even if you know nothing about golf, there’s still plenty of fun to be had. The facility offers a variety of games for golfers of all skill levels and non-golfers alike, including simulator-based skeeball, darts, tic-tac-toe, Connect Four, pitch pong, pirate-themed games and an indoor target golf similar. For holiday events, every booking includes an additional hour for setup, decorating, bringing in food and drinks and cleanup. While food and drinks are not provided, guests are welcome to bring their own or hire a caterer, and the team is happy to connect guests with great local catering options. Party organizers can also meet with the team before booking to tour the space, discuss details and pricing and get help planning and envisioning their special event this holiday season. JASON HOLM For more information or to book, visit thebackninegolf.com.

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HOLIDAY PLANNING When it comes to holiday orders, the sooner the better. For November holiday parties, Specially for You recommends placing all orders by mid-October, while December holiday parties should have orders placed by the last week of October. Most hard goods have a lead time of seven to 14 working days, although that timeframe can increase during the holiday season, while apparel can take seven to 20 days depending on the quantity JONI CRUMRINE ordered. Golf items remain at the top of the list for many companies, with golf balls, tees, towels and ball markers among the most popular choices. Branded apparel is also increasingly popular, with companies giving employees items such as embroidered vests, polos, hats and beanies. Drinkware continues to be a favorite, while fidget-related items, including pens with fidget spinners and ice cube stress toys, are becoming increasingly popular. What truly sets Specially for You apart is its commitment to personal service. Customers can always reach a real person by phone or email, and the team is happy to meet at a client’s office, sit down to discuss options or show products in person before an order is placed. That personal approach has been a cornerstone of the business for 40 years and continues to guide its commitment to its customers. Whether you’re looking for a thoughtful employee gift, a branded item for your team or something unique for your next holiday gathering, Specially for You can help make the process easy from start to finish. For more information or to book, visit specially4youinc.com. Planning a holiday gathering that offers something for everyone can be easier than you think, especially when you choose a venue with plenty of activities and flexibility. There really are no typical event bookings at Sun Valley Lanes & Games because every event is independently designed around each group’s needs. Regardless of the size of the group or what they’re looking for, the team can help create an experience that fits. For those JEN MISENO looking to plan an event, especially during the busy holiday season, it’s never too early to start. Sun Valley recommends looking at dates four to six months in advance to secure the time you want, while other details can be worked out along the way. What makes Sun Valley Lanes & Games stand out is that there truly is something for everyone. Guests can go beyond bowling with options including laser tag, Lucky Putt, an arcade and a variety of food options, making it a fun and flexible destination for holiday gatherings of all kinds. With so many activities and options to choose from, Sun Valley Lanes & Games makes it easy to create a memorable holiday event that everyone in the group can enjoy. For more information or to book, visit www.sunvalleylanes.com. Looking for gifts and activities that bring people together this holiday season? HobbyTown has plenty of options for families, friends and coworkers, from puzzles and games to the latest LEGO sets and popular NeeDoh and squishy toys. Party games can be a great addition to an office holiday party, giving coworkers a fun way to interact, laugh and enjoy some friendly competition outside the workplace. DANIEL SCHMIDT LEGO sets and puzzles also make great #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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gifts for creative minds, while HobbyTown’s huge selection of trendy toys offers something fun for teens and adults. Whether you’re shopping for a holiday gift or looking for an entertaining activity for your office celebration, HobbyTown has something for everyone. For more information, visit hobbytownlincoln.store. As the holiday season approaches, finding the right venue can make all the difference when planning a celebration. It doesn’t matter if you’re organizing a company holiday party, a family gathering or a festive get-together with friends, having a space that brings everyone together makes the occasion that much more special. Venue Restaurant & Lounge in Lincoln offers a welcoming setting for holiday gatherings, with five private dining rooms that accommodate groups of 30 to 90 guests. Whether planning an office celebration or getting together with family and friends, guests can enjoy a night out without having to worry about hosting at home. With c hef-inspired dining, fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks and catering CRAIG ZIMMERMAN options, Venue makes it easy to bring good food and good company together. It’s a place to catch up, celebrate the year and enjoy time with the people who make the holidays special. For more information, visit yourvenue.net. Planning a holiday party? DAVINCI’S makes catering easy, whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a large office celebration. Catering orders can be delivered anywhere in Lincoln, with free setup, paper products and serving utensils included. For holiday gatherings, the pasta package is a popular choice, featuring baked mostaccioli or lasagna rollups with homemade Alfredo, marinara or KRISTA MESSERSMITH creamy tomato sauce, along with garlic cheese rolls and garden salad. Another crowd-pleaser is the gourmet pizza package, which includes three large gourmet pizzas, garlic cheese rolls, garden salad and mini chocolate chip cookies. With delicious food and convenient service, DAVINCI’S can help take the stress out of your holiday party. Simply email catering@davincis.com or call Krista at (402) 4343301 with your event details and food preferences, and the team can offer recommendations based on your group size and the style of your event. Sweet Things by Marcy is welcoming the cooler months with the return of soup season. Beginning this fall and continuing through early spring, Chicken & Dumplings will be a mainstay, joined by two rotating soups throughout the season. The rotating selections will feature Southern comfort-food favorites and seasonal flavors, while seasonal desserts and limited-time specials will also be available throughout the fall and holiday season. MARCY HAAS For the holidays, Sweet Things by Marcy will focus on Southern comfort and nostalgia with favorites such as Southern Tea Cakes, Southern Pecan Pralines, Kentucky Butter Cake and other rotating Southern desserts. The bakery will also offer Southern dessert gift boxes in a variety of combinations and price #PrintProudDigitalSmart

HOLIDAY PLANNING points, making them a thoughtful option for teachers, coworkers, neighbors, clients and hosts. Boxes may include tea cakes, pecan pralines, miniature Kentucky Butter Cakes, individually wrapped cake slices and other seasonal treats. As a Southern-inspired bakery, deli and catering business in downtown Lincoln, Sweet Things by Marcy brings a taste of Alabama upbringing and Southern hospitality to the holiday season. For more information, visit sweetthingsbymarcy.com. The holidays are a great time to get together and enjoy something a little different. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out or planning a holiday party, The Nebraska Communities Playhouse (NCP) – Hickman Theater offers opportunities to bring theater into the season. Attending a show is a great way to spend an evening with friends, family or coworkers, while adding live entertainment to a holiday gathering can make the event even GINA BOE more memorable. For a fun group or family outing, consider attending one of NCP’s performances of Disney’s Frozen. If you’d like to bring the fun to you, NCP is making its Cabaret Singers available to businesses and organizations this holiday season to provide entertainment for your seasonal celebrations. For more information on how to secure tickets to Frozen or reserve your holiday musical entertainment, please reach out to info@neplayhouse.com. For more information on NCP, visit neplayhouse.com. T h e h o l i d ay s e a s o n i s q u i c k l y approaching, and Venue 5 TwentyTwo is ready to help local businesses, organizations and families celebrate in style. With open event space, flexible layouts, built-in AV and on-site parking, the venue can transform to fit everything from an intimate holiday gathering to a large company Christmas party. December dates can fill quickly, so businesses and organizations are encouraged to start planning and LORI GANA booking early. For those looking for a little more flexibility during the busy holiday season, weekday events can be a great option for Christmas parties, celebrations, showers, corporate gatherings, meetings and more. Venue 5 Twenty-Two can help customize each event and they offer vendors that customers can find a list of on their website. Whether the goal is a festive office celebration, a family gathering or a memorable end-of-year event, the venue offers a versatile space to bring holiday plans to life. Weddings are also booking well into 2028, with couples encouraged to reserve their preferred date 12–18 months in advance when possible. For more information or to book, visit venue5twenty-two.com. Finding the perfect Christmas gift for the man who has everything can be a challenge, but Gary Michaels has several options for the fashion-forward man on your list. Unconstructed stretch sport coats are a versatile choice that can be dressed up or down, pairing with premium denim and a sweater for a more casual look or dress pants, a shirt and tie for a special holiday occasion. Cashmere sweaters also make a thoughtful gift, with Gary Michaels NATHEN RUTT #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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(402) 434-2472

Strictly Business OCTOBER 2026

offering modern styles in both solid colors and patterns, from classic crew necks to full-zip options. For shoppers who are unsure about sizing, the experts at Gary Michaels can help take some of the guesswork out of gifting. Knowing the recipient’s height and weight can help, and even a photo from your phone may help the staff select the right size. Gift cards are another popular option for the difficult-to-buy-for man, giving him the opportunity to come in and choose something he will love. Shoppers can also look forward to Gary Michaels’ annual Anniversary promotion, taking place Oct. 15-24 in celebration of the store’s 43rd anniversary. The store is grateful for the clients who have supported Gary Michaels throughout its 43 years in business. For more information, visit garymichaels.com. Planning a holiday party? Talon Room in downtown Lincoln offers a space for businesses, families and friends to get together and celebrate the season. Whether it’s an annual company party or a gathering with friends, the venue provides a setting for enjoying good food, drinks and time together. With event space, catering and bar services available, Talon Room makes it easy to bring the pieces of a holiday MATTHEW ROGGE celebration together. Hosts can focus on spending time with their guests while celebrating the end of another year. For more information, visit talonroom.com. Make this holiday season a little more memorable with a gift that feels personal. At STATUS Haymarket, Lincoln’s only locally and womanowned boutique specializing in preauthenticated, second-hand luxury handbags, shoppers can find unique pieces that are stylish, timeless and anything but ordinary. From statement handbags to one-of-akind accessories, every piece at STATUS CASSIE SMIDT is thoughtfully selected, making it easy to find something special for a best friend, partner, family member or someone who is simply hard to shop for. Each handbag has its own story, offering a meaningful alternative to traditional holiday gifts. For those who need a little help finding the right gift, the STATUS team offers complimentary personal styling and handbag sourcing to help shoppers find a piece that fits their recipient’s personality and style. Holiday gift wrapping is also available, making each purchase ready to go under the tree. This Christmas, stop by STATUS Haymarket for a unique luxury shopping experience where thoughtful gifting and personal style come together. For more information, visit mystatusluxhaymarket.com. The holiday season is a time for thoughtful giving, and Ryan’s Market in Lincoln offers a variety of unique gifts for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts. Specializing in wild bird feeding supplies, the locally focused shop carries bird feeders, houses, birdbaths, feed and pole systems to help customers welcome feathered visitors to their yards. Shoppers can also find specialty jams, honeys, syrups and other gift items, making it easy to find something RYAN KENNEDY meaningful for friends and family who #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Great Things Happen Here NOW BOOKING Weddings Corporate Events Non-Profit Events Social Events & Other Celebrations

1525 Yankee Hill Rd, Lincoln, NE 68512

(531) 350-5784 venue5twenty-two.com #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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HOLIDAY PLANNING DROP-N-GO

CATERING

FROM NAPLES TO NEBRASKA

Effortless catering for work lunches, celebrations, and more!

Dine-in | Pick-up | Delivery | Catering

402.475.1111 | davincis.com

enjoy the outdoors. Beyond its products, Ryan’s Market is built around a mission of creating meaningful employment opportunities for individuals of all abilities. The business is committed to providing quality products while helping employees thrive with purpose. This holiday season, shopping at Ryan’s Market offers an opportunity to find thoughtful gifts while supporting a business dedicated to making a difference in the community. For more information, visit ryansmkt.com. The holiday season is a time for family, friends and making memories, but for pet owners, holiday travel can also mean finding a trusted place for their furry family members to stay. Kenl Inn in Lincoln offers boarding for dogs, cats and other pets, whether they need a place for an overnight stay or a longer visit. With a caring team and a comfortable environment, pet owners can enjoy their holiday plans knowing their pets are receiving attention and care while they’re away. For pets staying closer to home, Kenl Inn also offers daycare, professional grooming and dog training services. From keeping pets active and socialized to helping them look and feel their best, the team provides services to support pets and their families throughout the year. As holiday plans fill the calendar, Kenl Inn can help make caring for four-legged family members one less thing to worry about. For more information, visit kenl-inn.com. The holiday season is all about bringing people together, and Salt Mine City Brewing Co. in Lincoln’s Haymarket District offers a welcoming spot to celebrate with friends, family and coworkers. Whether planning a holiday get-together, a casual evening out or a work celebration, guests can enjoy small-batch craft beers brewed on-site alongside a menu of food favorites. From hoppy IPAs to smooth lagers, the brewery offers a variety of options for guests 68 Strictly Business OCTOBER 2026

to enjoy while catching up and making memories. For those looking to host a seasonal gathering, Salt Mine City also offers a private party room for birthdays, work events and other get-togethers. With food, craft beer and a space designed for connecting with others, the brewery provides an option for celebrating the season without hosting at home. Located at 801 R St. in the Haymarket, Salt Mine CLIFFORD ROPER City brings together good food, locally brewed beer and a relaxed atmosphere for holiday gatherings For more information, visit saltminecity.com. The holidays are a busy time of year, and keeping up with household cleaning can add to an already full schedule. Whether preparing for family to visit, hosting a holiday dinner or simply wanting a clean home to enjoy throughout the season, Maid To Please offers professional cleaning services in Lincoln to help make things a little easier. Homeowners can choose from seasonal cleaning, one-time deep cleaning and recurring services based ADAM COWAN on their needs. For those looking for a practical holiday gift, Maid To Please also offers house cleaning gift certificates in any denomination. Certificates can be mailed directly to the recipient and include an occasion card of choice. It’s a way to give someone a little extra help around the house and more time to enjoy the holidays. For more information, visit maid-to-please.com. The holidays don’t always have to involve a long trip to feel like a getaway. For Lincoln residents looking for a change of scenery this season, a quick trip to downtown Omaha can offer the opportunity to slow down, explore and enjoy a night away without venturing too far from home. The Peregrine Hotel provides a home base for a holiday staycation, with guest rooms, accessible accommodations and suites that allow guests to settle in for a weekend away. Pet-friendly rooms also make it possible to bring four-legged family members along. Guests can choose to spend their time relaxing at the hotel or step outside to explore the dining, shopping and entertainment available throughout downtown Omaha. Those looking to keep their plans close to the hotel can make dining part of the experience. The Peregrine’s signature restaurant, The Gilded Feather, features seasonal menus, chef-inspired pairings and a weekly happy hour. Later in the evening, Perch Rooftop offers craft cocktails alongside views of Omaha’s downtown landscape. Between holiday shopping, gatherings and packed schedules, even a short change of scenery can provide a welcome break with Omaha close enough for an easy trip from Lincoln. The best holiday celebrations are the ones employees remember long after the decorations come down. As businesses look toward a new year, taking the time to celebrate together can help carry that sense of connection, gratitude and camaraderie forward, giving employees another reason to feel proud of where they work and the role they play in its success. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

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When most people think of health, they think of getting a mild cold in the wintertime. They think of going to the doctor and getting medicine to help you feel better. But health is not just a stuffy nose and a headache; it can span more parts of your life than you think. People need rehabilitation for injuries, treatment for problems with skin, eyes and muscles, and sometimes a way to manage pain. Holistic health can mean different things to different people, but generally people agree that those who practice holistic health consider the person as a whole. These Lincoln businesses take into account the many complex moving parts of people when they provide their services. At Husker Rehab, all kinds of health matter. People tend to neglect the foundational parts of their health the most—things like sleep, nutrition, hydration, stress management, and regular movement. They also notice that people often wait too long for pain or discomfort to resolve on its own, allowing it to become a bigger problem than it may have been if they had addressed it earlier. HALIE TRIMBLE Another area that people tend to neglect is their postural alignment and the way they position and move their bodies during daily activities. Poor posture and repetitive movement patterns can create a lot of unnecessary wear and tear over time, eventually leading to pain and limitations that could have potentially been prevented with earlier awareness and intervention. One of the biggest challenges Husker Rehab sees with clients before they come to the clinic is that pain and discomfort start affecting their everyday lives. Simple things like sitting at work, standing for long periods, getting in and out of a car, exercising, sleeping, or keeping up with their children can become more difficult. Many people also compensate for an injury or discomfort for months or even years, which can create other areas of weakness, tightness, or poor movement patterns. By the time they come into the clinic, the original problem may have started affecting multiple areas of their body. According to Husker Rehab, the biggest difference between traditional and holistic healthcare is that traditional healthcare often focuses on identifying and treating a specific condition or the symptoms someone is experiencing, while holistic healthcare looks more closely at the person as a whole and tries to understand what may be causing those symptoms. One area in which this is especially relevant is postural alignment. Incorrect alignment can affect the way the entire body moves and functions. When one area is out of alignment, the body often compensates by placing additional stress on other muscles, joints, and tissues. Over time, this can lead to pain in multiple areas of the body,

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even though the original issue may have started somewhere else. If you only treat the area that hurts without addressing the root of the problem, you may only be treating the symptoms rather than the underlying cause. A holistic approach allows you to look at things like posture, movement patterns, strength, mobility, lifestyle, and daily habits to better understand why the problem is occurring in the first place. While traditional and holistic healthcare can work well together, Husker Rehab maintains that addressing the root cause is an important part of helping people achieve long-term improvement rather than simply managing their symptoms. At K2 Holistic Health, they often find that some of the most important foundations of health are also the easiest to overlook: eating well, moving regularly, and challenging the body with resistance to maintain strength. These fundamentals affect how people function, how people age, and how well people’s bodies respond when something begins to go wrong. But K2 also looks deeper. Rather than asking, “What symptom does this patient JASON HOWE have?” they want to understand why their physiology has changed and what they can do to help restore healthier function. That philosophy extends throughout K2’s integrated approach to healthcare. For someone struggling with orthopedic issues like arthritis, the conversation doesn’t have to begin and end with repeated corticosteroid injections or surgery. Depending on the individual, Sarapin, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), or regenerative therapies may be worth discussing. With neuropathy patients, K2 looks beyond simply masking nerve symptoms like pain and numbness/tingling, to correcting the factors that led to the neuropathy in the first place. One of the most common things K2 hears from patients is, “I thought this was just what getting older felt like.” They’ve gradually become more tired. Their weight is harder to control. They don’t sleep as well. They hurt more. Their strength or mobility has declined. Because these changes happen slowly, people often accept them as inevitable consequences of aging. But aging and poor health aren’t synonymous. Systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, and mitochondrial dysfunction lead to significant metabolic compromise. This process is often the source of fatigue, decreased muscle mass, nutritional deficiencies, and poor sleep. Throw in hormonal imbalances as well, and the person will undoubtedly be missing out on their best life. Identifying those changes creates opportunities to intervene. This is where peptide therapy can help restore the correct physiological processes, and K2 is an expert nationally in this area, as they help people from coast to coast with their peptide management. At K2, they ask an additional question: What physiological processes #PrintProudDigitalSmart

contributed to this patient’s problem in the first place? K2 stands for Kinetics and Kinesthetics—how people move and the neurological processes involved in movement and physical function. Their goal is to help patients improve not only a diagnosis or symptom, but how they move, feel, and function. This focus is inherently holistic because it focuses on the often overlooked connections between the body and the brain. K2 Holistic Health aims to treat problems at the source so that patients can live healthy and happy lives without taking unnecessary medication. Every patient has a mountain to climb. K2 Holistic Health’s job is to understand the obstacles, bring together the right disciplines and therapies, and help guide them toward the summit of their health. At Beyond Vision LNK, they care for the the entire individual through their eyes. Every person’s visual system and health is unique to them, so Beyond Vision LNK recommends a yearly eye exam where the

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HOLISTIC HEALTH doctor can discuss individualized best practices. General rules for every individual include: - Set good device practices: Limit screen time throughout the day, take breaks, set devices on a charging station at night, and reduce screen use after 3 pm to allow for activities with 20 feet viewing. DR.CARLA ERICKSEN - Use the largest screen for the activity, for example: if watching a movie, use the TV rather than a cell phone - Overhead lighting should be equal to or brighter than your screen, no dark viewing - Shut devices down 2 hours before bed, light is a stimulant and can disrupt sleep causing other health problems - If you have headaches, eyestrain, redness or eye pain, schedule an exam; your visual system involves more than 20/20 vision Your eyes are comprised of millions of nerves connected directly to your brain. They provide feedback about the world in seconds. Maintaining regular eye care assists in protecting this special organ from damage, overstimulation, or progressive prescription changes that can impact learning, athletic performance, behavior, anxiety, sleep, posture, and everyday balance. Beyond Vision LNK evaluates the whole visual process including the structure of the eye, how the eyes are teaming together, how they are processing, and how it correlates to all the patient’s physical health symptoms and even medications. Their patients have fuller relief of symptoms, not just a “darker letter” on a chart. They particularly focus on evaluating how the brain and eyes can work together, which is not something that is typically tested for at regular eye care evaluations. When patients come in for treatment, they can expect to see better, function better and feel better – all because they focused on the underlying cause of symptoms rather than just treating symptoms at the surface. Traditional healthcare sees the person as a “body,” or man as a machine, which becomes systematic. Holistic healthcare requires greater knowledge and diligence to understand not only the body, but the whole person. It requires more time and compassion to review a person’s entire history, symptomology, and concerns while creating a treatment plan or referral network that will bring full healing for the person. Beyond Vision LNK suggests that regular eye care with a full comprehensive history is essential to be holistically healthy. People come to ReCharge Wellness for help with sleep, energy, inflammation, pain, performance, and overall wellness. Everyone walks in with a different goal, and the staff helps each person choose the services that make the most sense for them. What sets ReCharge apart is its membership model. A monthly membership gives members unlimited access to every service in their tier, any AMANDA COLEMAN day the studio is open - they can stay as long as they like and use whatever fits their goals. While most places charge per session or sell credit packs, ReCharge was built to make recovery and wellness more affordable, because 72 Strictly Business OCTOBER 2026

these therapies work best when people can use them consistently. Owner Amanda Coleman spent 20 years in health care before opening ReCharge, and that experience shapes how the studio approaches holistic care. Traditional medicine often manages symptoms through medication, physical therapy, or other treatments. Holistic care asks a different question - what is contributing to the problem in the first place - and supports the body at the cellular level, working alongside traditional care rather than replacing it. More of these therapies are gaining recognition in traditional medicine, and ReCharge believes there is room for both. Among the most popular therapies are sauna, red light therapy, lymphatic compression, vibroacoustic therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and hydrogen inhalation. For ReCharge, it all comes back to one thing: helping clients live happier, healthier lives. Health encapsulates so many parts of life; while traditional health tends to take center stage with its focus on managing symptoms, holistic health is often overlooked despite the respect and care that comes with it. Holistic healthcare has its own benefits that rival those of traditional health. Holistic healthcare is well known to focus on overall well-being, personalized treatment plans for individual issues, and an emphasis on prevention rather than just treating symptoms. All of this leads to making daily changes, meaning individuals will have a healthier lifestyle and less problems they will need to deal with overall. When people are treated holistically by local Lincoln professionals, the whole person is taken into consideration, and their needs can be met by finding the root cause and working with every part of the individual.

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RESELL REMODEL

Preparing a home for resale involves more than simply putting it on the market. From making necessary repairs to updating outdated features, homeowners have several factors to consider when deciding how to prepare their property for potential buyers. Knowing which projects to prioritize can help homeowners make the most of their time and budget while creating a welcoming space that appeals to a wide range of buyers. Whether it is restoring existing surfaces, completing a remodel, addressing electrical concerns or refreshing flooring, each improvement can contribute to the overall condition and presentation of a home. Even smaller details, such as cleaning and removing construction debris, can make a difference when preparing for showings. Local businesses share their insights on the remodeling process, including which updates homeowners may want to consider before selling and how to approach projects with resale in mind. One place to begin is with the surfaces buyers see and use every day. While proper maintenance is important, restoring your stone, tile or grout surfaces will help potential buyer interest for a couple of reasons according to Lifetime Stone Restoration. First it shows buyers that you maintain your home and take care of some of the more expensive items. It also helps show that these areas are not ones they need to worry about fixing or replacing once they move in.

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Lincoln’s Electrical Service Experts Residential | Commercial | Industrial Remodeling | Ceiling Fans | Computer Cabling | Security Lighting

Your Qualified Electrical Contractor Since 1932

Call us today! 402-435-3514 | www.abcelectric.net

Why Replace When You Can Restore

Serving Lincoln since 2008

BEFORE

BEFORE

BEFORE

AFTER

AFTER

AFTER

Marble and other stone refinishing Grout cleaning and sealing Tiled shower cleaning and caulking Granite sealing and repair

402.916.1700 • LifetimeStone.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

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RESELL REMODEL “If a potential buyer sees a dirty shower, cracked stone tiles on your floor or chipped granite counters, they know they will have added expenses if they buy the home,” said Don Mlnarik, owner and operator of Lifetime Stone Restoration. When selling your home restoration is better than replacement of surfaces. Restoration is cheaper than replacement. Refreshing a surface— DON MLNARIK whether a counter, shower or floor—will make the area look clean and possibly even new. “You could replace something for a lot more money and potential buyers might not like what you picked out and will want to tear it out and replace it themselves with either a product or color they like better,” said Mlnarik. Some of the main issues Mlnarik sees before homeowners list their house for sale are removing hard water deposits and re-polishing around their kitchen counter sink. “I also get called to clean tiled showers by removing mildew, soap and re-caulking around the base and corners,” said Mlnarik. “If they have stone floors they usually want these cleaned and possibly polished back up.” There are many things to keep in mind when reselling. Don’t let your stone be one of your worries. Please reach out to Lifetime Stone Restoration with any questions you may have, call at (402) 916-1700 or visit them at lifetimestone.com. Beyond restoring existing surfaces, homeowners may also consider which remodeling projects could make a difference when preparing to sell. Knowing where to focus time and money can help homeowners prioritize updates that fit their goals and budget. Willet Construction offers a wide range of services if you are planning to remodel. Whether it is your garage, kitchen, bathroom, basement, master suite and more. Maybe you are looking to add an addition to your home; Willet has got you covered. But, finding projects to prioritize if you are planning on selling can be difficult. Justine Johnson of Willet Construction shares more about what you should JUSTINE JOHNSON have at the top of your to-do list when you are remodeling your home. “According to the Cost vs Value report put out by Zonda Media each year, some of the projects that are most cost effective for resale include entry door replacement, garage door replacement, fibercement siding and stone veneer,” said Johnson. “In 2025 a minor kitchen remodel also fell into the group where costs were recouped at 100% or better.” Willet Construction believes that small upgrades can be made to fixtures and hardware that don’t require a ton of time or money. This is convenient if you have a budget or are looking to sell in a certain time period. “Plumbing fixtures, light fixtures, cabinet hardware, and door hardware can all be upgraded with little effort,” said Johnson. “Classic chrome and brushed nickel remain popular, with brushed brass and satin gold adding warmth.” Paint and flooring require a little more time and effort, but always make your home feel fresh and new. If you have carpet in a bathroom or kitchen, definitely have it removed prior to listing your home. Major remodels, say for an upscale bathroom; don’t have as much #PrintProudDigitalSmart

RESELL REMODEL of a payback because choices made for those often have more personal tastes in mind. “If you’re planning on selling your home in the next 5 years or less, a major renovation would not be recommended,” said Johnson. “Projects that give a return in the 60% -100% range include a grand entrance, a backup power generator, HVAC conversion/electrification, a deck addition, basement remodel and window replacements.” Willet Construction is a design-build company with designers on staff and the crew to get the job done. Customers just need to make one phone call and they do the rest. They also have a design studio where they can see and feel products, consult with their designer and review plans and renderings. This is where their project starts to come to life. Before construction begins, a calendar is created so homeowners know who will be in their home and when. And then there’s our team. They want every project to be the best experience for the customer. They do their best to ensure every customer is happy and satisfied with their project. They are a member of GuildQuality, a third-party survey company. This ensures each review is from an actual customer with honest feedback. They want to hear the good and what they can do to improve. Their mission is to deliver top-quality service and craftsmanship for an exceptional experience that results in lifelong customers. They seek to provide an environment centered on their core values and an excitement for remodeling. While visible updates can help a home make a strong first impression, some important improvements are hidden behind the walls. Electrical systems are another consideration for homeowners, particularly when preparing an older property for sale. Your home may be looking up to date and ready to sell, but making sure that your electric systems are also renewed is important. Homebuyers often are less concerned with internal wiring and tend to focus more on the visuals and cosmetics: if they can’t see it, it must not be a problem. However, internal upgrades are just as important as the cosmetic ones. Especially in older homes that usually have a “handy man” are more subject to many improper repairs and wiring extensions. ABC Electric believes that fuse panels and obsolete breaker panels are definitely worth you considering either replacing or upgrading before putting a house on the market. “This equipment was generally not rated to last more than 35 years and could be living on borrowed time,” said Ron Pickel, Project Manager and Estimator of ABC Electric. “Eliminating knob and tube wiring assemblies, ungrounded circuits and aluminum BOB CODR branch circuit wiring should also be considered.” While upgrading electric systems within your home can be expensive because it can relate the need for other repairs like wall and ceiling refinishing and repairs, it will make for a strong selling point. “However, sellers generally don’t want to pay for the repairs as they may not see a large enough return on their investment to make up for the cost of the work, leaving buyers to absorb the brunt of the expense,” said Pickel. ABC Electric tends to act as a mediator between the buyer and seller of the home by presenting a cost of repairs to an agent which is then used as bargaining to lower the price of the house which then allows the other party to find a cheaper alternative. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Once homeowners have considered the condition of their home’s systems, attention can turn back to the finishes that shape the look and feel of each room. Flooring is one of those details that can influence both the appearance and functionality of a space. Flooring plays a big role in a remodeling project, it can influence everything from a room’s overall appearance to its everyday functionality. Whether homeowners are refreshing one space or updating their entire home, selecting the right material can help create a cohesive and comfortable environment. Underfoot Flooring is a family-owned and operated flooring company run by Ela and Cory Schlisner and their trusted team. With so many flooring options available, homeowners are looking for materials that balance appearance with durability and ease of care. “Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) remains one of the most popular flooring choices thanks to its durability, water resistance, CORY SCHLISNER and realistic wood appearance,” Amanda Swenson of Underfoot Flooring said. Hardwood, engineered hardwood, carpet and large-format tile continue to be popular choices as well due to their durability. Warm, natural colors are especially appealing to homeowners looking to create a welcoming atmosphere throughout their homes. “New flooring can completely refresh a space by making it feel

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RESELL REMODEL brighter, more modern and more inviting,” Swenson said. “As the foundation of a room’s design, updated flooring can enhance comfort, improve functionality and increase overall home value.” Before choosing flooring, homeowners should evaluate their budget, household needs and the purpose of each room. Durable materials may be especially useful for households with children or pets, while moisture-prone spaces call for flooring that can handle humidity and spills. Taking these considerations into account allows homeowners to find flooring that complements their design while providing lasting performance and functionality. After remodeling projects are complete, there is one final step to help a home feel ready for potential buyers: cleaning. Construction dust and debris can linger long after the work is finished, making a thorough cleanup an important part of preparing a home for showings. Making sure you have gotten all of the proper remodeling completed on your home before selling is important. But remodeling comes with a lot of cleaning due to dust, paint and other debris. New Start Cleaning wants to ensure your home is ready for the market or just more comfortable after remodeling because a professional cleaning of your home can make a big difference. “A clean, fresh home helps potential buyers focus on the space itself instead of noticing dust, dirt or buildup,” said Yadirha Mendez of New Start Cleaning. “We want the home to feel welcoming, fresh and well cared for COCO CHAIREZ when someone walks through the door.” According to New Start Cleaning, some commonly overlooked areas when cleaning and preparing a home for showings are baseboards, doors and door frames, ceiling fans, walls, vents, the inside of windows and cabinets. “We also dust throughout the home, including storage rooms and other areas that may not get cleaned as often,” said Mendez. “These smaller details can make a big difference in how clean and well maintained a home looks.” New Start Cleaning recommends specific cleaning projects that can make a home feel newer or more move-in ready. “Kitchens and bathrooms can make a big difference when they are thoroughly cleaned, especially the floors, cabinets, appliances and fixtures, “ said Mendez. “We also clean inside windows, vents, doors, baseboards, ceiling fans and the microwave, as well as dust throughout the home and storage areas.” At your request New Start Cleaning will also change bed sheets. Their goal is for people to come home to a home that feels fresh, smells fresh, looks clean, put together and feels ready to enjoy. Preparing a home for resale involves many details, from addressing necessary repairs to making thoughtful updates that help the property feel fresh and welcoming and more attractive to buyers. As local businesses have shared, restoring stone and tile surfaces, prioritizing remodeling projects like kitchens or bathrooms, evaluating electrical systems and selecting appropriate flooring can all be part of getting a home ready for the market. From the bones to the beauty of your home, there are always improvements that can be made. The right remodeling company can help you identify these potential fixes that will increase your home’s value and the pull it has with buyers. Kitchens and bathrooms are by far one of the most looked at and, 76 Strictly Business OCTOBER 2026

let’s be honest, criticized parts of homes. It needs to fit the families or individual lifestyle of the buyer. Do they need extra counter space, fridge space or a full pantry to store food and drinks? Since kitchens are one of the most looked at things of a house, their renovations often tend to cost the most. They’re a major selling point and can help your home stand out. The kitchen is one of the most used spaces in a home, so as buyers start to compare multiple properties, a functional and an attractive kitchen can make your home more memorable. However, you can’t possibly determine what is a perfect space for the perfect buyer so landing somewhere in the middle, making common sense upgrades and renovations is the best way to go about and having the right remodeling partners makes sure you’re making the right upgrades for the right price. It’s important to remodel for the potential buyer and not for yourself. Yet, small improvements can make a noticeable difference. While in some cases a total renovation might be necessary, it’s not in all cases. Things like new fixtures, lighting, mirrors, counter tops, flooring, paint or hardware can refresh a room and give it an entirely new look. Those are the big renovations people think about, but the little details people overlook about are just as important to update. Outdated electrical systems are often forgotten about by both sellers and buyers. Replacing old outlets and switches, updating outdated electrical panels and correcting wiring that’s not up to code are really important to fix because those are the things that inspections will catch. Updates to things like windows and doors can also be easily forgotten about. It’s imperative to fix things like drafty windows, damaged screens, doors that don’t close properly and worn weather stripping. This isn’t just for looks, but because these issues could later become a problem during inspections. Exterior maintenance like fixing cracked concrete, cleaning gutters, power washing, repairing siding, replacing damaged trim, touching up exterior paint and fixing fences are more little details that improvements can make a home feel better maintained before a buyer even walks through the door. These updates are the ultimate first impression. Completing a thorough cleaning after construction or renovation is another important step in presenting the finished space. No potential buyer wants to see their future home already dirty; it doesn’t set a good image of their life in the home. Comprehensive cleanings should be done prior to renovations to start with a good slate, during renovations to make sure work stays on time, team members are working in good conditions and you can stay comfortable in your home when preparing to sell. Post renovation cleaning is probably the most important in regards to potential buyers. What good is redoing the whole kitchen, and then leaving dust, dirt, tools and debris in it? Especially when you are redoing a house to sell? Every home has different needs, and the right improvements will depend on its current condition, the homeowner’s budget and the timeline for selling. Don’t just look at the cosmetics; look at the functionality of systems: water, electrical, heating and cooling. These are pricey fixes for potential homeowners which could quickly turn a “yes” into a “no”. Taking the time to evaluate which projects are necessary and which updates may offer practical benefits can help homeowners make informed decisions throughout the process. By paying attention to both the visible details and the underlying condition of their property, homeowners can work toward creating a space that is well-maintained, comfortable and ready to welcome its next occupants. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Women-owned businesses are making their mark across Nebraska, bringing fresh ideas, strong leadership and a commitment to the communities they serve. Across nearly every industry, women entrepreneurs are building businesses that respond to changing needs while creating lasting relationships with their customers, employees and communities. From professional services and healthcare to retail, hospitality and creative industries, women business owners bring a wide range of experience and perspectives to Nebraska’s business community. While every business has its own story, many share a common focus on providing quality service, building meaningful connections and finding new ways to grow. Owning and operating a business comes with its share of challenges. Building a customer base, managing day-to-day operations, finding the right employees and planning for future growth all require time, flexibility and persistence. Women business owners continue to meet those challenges while adapting to an ever-changing business environment. Their impact also extends beyond the businesses they lead. Many women entrepreneurs are active throughout their communities, supporting local organizations, mentoring others, creating jobs and building professional relationships that help other businesses succeed. When local businesses support one another, the entire community benefits. This month, Strictly Business is proud to highlight women-owned businesses throughout our community and the women behind them. Whether they are leading an established company or building something new, these business owners are creating opportunities, serving their customers and helping shape the future of Nebraska business.

Commercial Realty Group, LLC is a women-owned business and a prominent contributor to Nebraska’s economy, known for its reliable leadership in commercial real estate. With the guidance of Laura M. Bell, the company specializes in sales and leasing of office, retail, industrial, investment, and land properties across Nebraska and provides personalized consulting services. LAURA BELL With more than 35 years of experience, Laura brings a leadership style defined by a client-first mindset, fairness, and diligence. She is known as a skilled negotiator, analytical thinker, a go-getter, and an advocate who serves clients’ best interests first. Commercial Realty Group is not a developer and does not own property, so clients receive unbiased guidance and personalized attention at every step. From comprehensive market searches to property tours, proposals, and contract reviews, Commercial Realty Group continues to demonstrate the impact women entrepreneurs make in Nebraska by providing clarity, strategy, and exceptional service businesses can rely on. For all your commercial property needs, visit us at crgnebraska.net or call (402) 484-5333. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Natasha Lundy started Willow Key Interiors 12 years ago because she is passionate about helping clients create their dream homes. Your home is where life happens and it can be a transformative process when your space reflects your personal style as well as the functionality you need to live the best version of your life every day. Willow Key Interiors offers multiple design ser vices catered to your NATASHA LUNDY personal needs, including Design of new construction homes, remodeling projects and furnishings. The Willow Key Interiors team includes Interior Designer, Courtney Joe, who is incredibly talented and detail oriented as well their amazing office manager extraordinaire, Ginger Harriman. Natasha also co-owns a sister company called the Modern Window – Smart Blind Design where beauty and smart motorization are combined to create the perfect finishing touch for your space. Follow along for inspiration and amazing before and after pictures at Willow Key Interiors on Facebook or Instagram or check out their website at IHDNE.com. OCTOBER 2026 Strictly Business

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WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES Since stepping into ownership and leadership of Associates in Counseling & Treatment (ACT) in January 2020, Megan Leikam has focused on building an organization where quality care, accessibility, and compassion remain at the center of every service provided. As owner and executive director, Megan has helped guide ACT’s continued growth while remaining actively involved in the work that first MEGAN LEIKAM drew her to the behavioral health field. With professional credentials in alcohol and drug counseling, disordered gambling counseling, and domestic violence intervention, she understands the importance of leading not only from an administrative perspective, but also through direct connection with clients, staff, and community partners. Under Megan’s leadership, ACT has continued to expand its services to meet the diverse needs of individuals and families throughout the community. The agency provides substance use, mental health, gambling, and co-occurring evaluations; intensive outpatient treatment with morning and evening options; outpatient counseling; anger management; domestic violence intervention programming; and alcohol/DUI education. Accessibility has also remained an important part of ACT’s mission. The agency accepts a variety of insurance plans, offers both in-person and virtual services, provides flexible scheduling, and maintains sliding-scale options for individuals who are uninsured or underinsured. For Megan, however, ACT’s growth is about more than expanding programs. It is about creating a place where people can seek help without judgment and where counselors have the support and resources they need to make a meaningful difference. “People come to us during some of the most difficult and uncertain periods of their lives. I want ACT to be a place where they feel respected, supported, and capable of making meaningful changes. I’m incredibly proud of the team we have built and the work they do every day for our clients and our community,” Megan said. As a woman business owner in the behavioral health field, Megan continues to balance the responsibilities of leadership with her commitment to counseling, advocacy, and community service. Her vision for ACT remains centered on continued growth while preserving the personal, compassionate approach that has shaped the organization. To learn more about Associates in Counseling & Treatment, visit ACTNebraska.org, call (402) 261-6667, or email information@ actnebraska.org.

If you would like to be in a future Women-Owned feature and missed out on this one, contact Paige Zutavern at paige@strictlybusinessomaha.com for more details about the next feature!

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Marci Hanshaw made her dream a reality in June of 2008 when the sign lit up for Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar in the quiet little area of Pioneers Woods Shopping Center, located on 70th and Pioneers. “I was a very young entrepreneur back then at the age of 28,” said Marci. “In a sense, Carmela’s and I grew up together.” Marci’s vision was to bring an elegant MARCI DAVISON bistro with extraordinary food and wine to Lincoln. She was excited and nervous to join the ranks of all the other amazing restaurants in town, which were predominately led by men at the time. “I was aware that restaurant industry was a strongly male-dominated space,” said Marci. “I was prepared to roll up my sleeves and do what I needed to do in order to be successful. Carmela’s was well received by Lincolnites, and we are still going strong after 16 years!” Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar features chef inspired American cuisine that includes hand-cuts steaks, pastas, and seafood dishes. They believe that food and wine hold the power to forge lasting connections, setting the table for a life well lived. Carmela’s Bistro & Wine Bar features date nights on Monday and Tuesday evenings, with rotating monthly menus, which includes a three-course meal for two and a bottle of wine for only $68! There are Wine Down Wednesdays and First Thursday Wine Tasting events. Another highlight is the Chef Created Brunch Menu every Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. They also have Sinatra Sundays, featuring a three course dinner plus a bottle of wine while listening to the sounds of the rat pack and Ol’ Blue Eyes himself. To view the full menu and hours, visit CarmelasBistroandWineBar. com or call (402) 489-0005.

At Copper & Wax Co., vintage finds meet clean fragrance in a collection designed to slow the pace of modern life. What began as a spark during the pandemic quickly blossomed into a full-time, woman-powered business rooted in intention. They hand-pour candles and other products using locally harvested beeswax blended with clean-burning, phthalate-free ingredients for home and body. The alchemy symbol for Copper used MINDY HORN throughout their branding represents nature, creativity, love, and balance—values that guide everything they create. Their aesthetic leans into Old-World charm: simple, beautiful pieces that feel inviting. In addition to their recycle & refill programs they also love to collaborate with other businesses to create signature scents - crafting fragrances that reflect their story and identity. Mindy Horn is the owner and maker at Copper & Wax Co. – with a background as a massage therapist and beekeeper, she approaches fragrance as ritual - an invitation to pause & breathe. From raw, natural materials to nostalgic branding, every detail is thoughtfully curated to bring warmth and calm into your space. Stop into one of their storefronts located in the heart of University Place – Lincoln’s only Creative Arts District, inside Creative Collabs Collective & online at CopperWaxCo.com! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES GordenLaw in Lincoln was founded in 2011 by Attorney Vanessa J. Gorden with the mission to helping families move forward through some of life’s most challenging transitions. Focusing exclusively on family law, GordenLaw represents clients in matters involving divorce, custody, support, paternity and grandparent rights. Through flat fees, proactive strategy, and personalized guidance, the firm’s VANESSA GORDEN team helps make the legal process more understandable and manageable. As a first-generation lawyer and woman business owner, Gorden is also committed to creating opportunities for the next generation of attorneys, particularly women and first-generation lawyers who may enter the profession without established networks or a traditional roadmap. She is proud to be a finalist for the 2026 Inspire Lincoln awards for excellence in small/medium business. “Family law cases are pivotal moments,” Gorden says. “It is an honor to help our clients move forward with strength and confidence.” To learn more about GordenLaw, visit GordenLaw.com, call (402) 817-1450, or email inquiry@gordenlaw.com. For many individuals and families, financial planning can feel overwhelming. For more than four decades, Marcie Young has helped people turn uncertainty into clarity. Marcie is a fiduciary Investment Adviser Representative and owner of Marcia Young & Associates, LLC. Over the years, she has built a reputation for thoughtful guidance, practical strategies, and long-term client relationships. Her approach begins with something MARCIE YOUNG simple but powerful—listening. “I believe people make their best financial decisions when they truly understand their options,” Marcie says. “Education always comes first.” Many clients find Marcie through a referral from a friend, family member, or colleague who has worked with her for years. In fact, her practice has grown almost entirely through word-of-mouth recommendations. Her dedication to clients has also earned consistent recognition. Since 2020, Marcie has been recognized as a Top 3 favorite in the Lincoln’s Choice Awards for Favorite Financial Advisor. Raised with the values of Nebraska farm life—hard work, practicality, and caring for others—Marcie brings those principles into every client relationship. She serves clients throughout Nebraska and across the United States. While retirement planning is a specialty, Marcie and her team work with individuals at every stage of life, from young professionals building their financial foundation to those preparing for retirement or navigating major life transitions. Marcie provides access to a broad range of top-notch financial solutions, including managed investments, IRAs, mutual funds, annuities, college savings plans, and individual 401(k) plans. Additional services include term life insurance, identity theft protection, and prepaid legal services Many people who reach out to Marcie say they simply want a place to start or a second opinion on their current financial strategy. An initial conversation is designed to be relaxed and educational, giving individuals the opportunity to ask questions and explore options before deciding on next steps. To learn more or schedule a conversation, visit: Primerica.com/MarcieYoung. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Gatlin Psychiatric Services is a woman-owned mental health practice in Lincoln, Nebraska, founded by Kristine Gatlin, APRN. Our mission is to provide compassionate, innovative psychiatric care that looks beyond symptoms and treats the whole person. We offer traditional psyc hiatric evaluation and medication management alongside integrative psychiatry, KRISTINE GATLIN exploring factors such as nutrition, laboratory findings, lifestyle, and overall wellness that may influence mental health. We also provide NeuroStar Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a noninvasive, FDA-cleared treatment option for individuals with certain mental health conditions who may not have experienced adequate relief with traditional treatments. As a locally owned small business, we are committed to expanding access to high-quality mental health care, supporting our community, and creating an environment where patients feel heard and valued. At Gatlin Psychiatric Services, we believe mental health treatment should be personalized, collaborative, and focused on helping each individual achieve meaningful, lasting improvement. Learn more at gatlinpsych.com.

This year, Peace Studio Architects, Inc. proudly celebrates 13 years in business, a milestone co-owner Sam Peace is especially proud to recognize as a woman entrepreneur. Sam and her husband, Principal Architect Gill Peace, AIA, founded Peace Studio Architects in 2013, combining their individual strengths to create a firm built on thoughtful design, strong relationships, and entrepreneurial spirit.

SAM PEACE

As Co-CEO and CFO, Sam oversees financial management, project management, client relationships, marketing, and architectural photography. Her role has evolved alongside the firm, requiring creativity, adaptability, perseverance, and a willingness to take risks. Sam is also a proud member of Rotary 14, where service, community involvement, and meaningful relationships reflect values she brings to her business and leadership every day. Today, Peace Studio Architects works throughout the Midwest on commercial and residential projects, including hospitality, mixeduse, adaptive reuse, master planning, custom homes, and high-end renovations. For Sam, celebrating 13 years represents the determination required to build and sustain a business while recognizing the growing impact of women entrepreneurs. Supporting and celebrating other women in business remains especially important as she looks toward the future with continued passion, purpose, creativity, and growth. Because Design Matters. For more information, please visit peacestudioarch.com. OCTOBER 2026 Strictly Business

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WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES Ashley Tobias has called Lincoln home for over a decade and is the owner of T Square Movers, an award-winning, family-owned moving company that hit its 10-year anniversary in 2026. She also co-owns Save Nebraska Local, a growing business community dedicated to helping small businesses collaborate, scale, and thrive together. At T Square Movers, Ashley has created far more than a moving company. The ASHLEY TOBIAS business operates as a sober workplace that actively supports recovery, mental clarity, and personal growth. While not every team member comes from an addiction background, the company culture emphasizes discipline, accountability, and clear-minded service. Many employees credit this environment with helping them stabilize their lives, develop leadership skills, and pursue long-term goals. Central to this culture is the T2 Leadership Academy, a structured internal program Ashley designed to develop movers into leaders. The academy focuses on servant leadership, emotional regulation, professionalism under pressure, communication, and personal responsibility — skills that extend far beyond the job site. Ashley’s leadership philosophy is rooted in service first. She believes strong leaders exist to elevate others, not control them. This mindset has shaped a team culture known for reliability, mutual respect, and a “no-complaining, solutions-focused” approach to challenges. Beyond T Square Movers, Ashley plays a major role in strengthening the local business ecosystem. Through Save Nebraska Local, she hosts recurring masterminds and networking events designed to be practical, collaborative, and non-sales-driven. These gatherings bring together entrepreneurs from diverse industries to troubleshoot real problems, share strategies, and build authentic relationships — not just exchange business cards. Known for her high energy, direct communication style, and commitment to community growth, Ashley continues to build organizations that prioritize people, leadership, and long-term impact. To learn more about T Square Movers, visit TSquareMovers.com or call (402) 645-4067. To learn more about Save Nebraska Local and the SaveLocal App, visit SaveNebraskaLocal.io or text (402) 780-8813. Katniss Clinic, operated by Dr. Keli Kolegraff, MD, PhD, is a plastic and reconstructive surgery practice in Lincoln that offers patients highly personalized care for both aesthetic and reconstructive needs. Some of the procedures she offers include, but are not limited to, breast reduction, lift or augmentation; scar revision; Botox; liposuction; and face and neck lifts. Dr. Kolegraff is mindful of how she builds relationships and communicates with her patients. She approaches each KELI KOLEGRAFF patient with the philosophy, “I will give you care and listen to your needs and concerns in the same way that I would want to be listened to and taken care of.” Her principles of trust, compassion and genuine listening propel the clinic forward and help ensure patients’ needs and wants are met in a professional and caring way. Whether a patient is seeking reconstructive surgery, a cosmetic change or a skin care routine or treatment, Dr. Kolegraff works with them throughout the process, listening at every step and striving to provide results that meet their individual needs. For more information on Katniss Clinic, please visit katnissclinic.com, call (402) 405-4942 or email drkeli@katnissclinic.com.

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Kylie Ensrud for mally founded Humanized HR in 2024 with a straightforward belief: workplaces work better when the people in them are actually understood. A fractional HR and leadership consulting firm based in Lincoln, Humanized HR partners with organizations across Nebraska to build HR systems, develop leaders and strengthen culture in ways that hold up under real-world pressure.

KYLIE ENSRUD

What sets the firm apart is its foundation in neuroscience. Rather than treating brain science as a talking point, Humanized HR builds it into the structure of its work, from proprietary frameworks like SIGNAL+ and the REVEAL Culture Audit to leadership programs like Manager 101. The firm is also a certified administrator of the EQ-i 2.0 emotional intelligence assessment, pairing results with customized team training. Before founding the firm, Kylie built her career in executive HR leadership, serving as a Chief People and Compliance Officer for both white-collar and blue-collar industries. She is an author, keynote speaker, and executive coach and serves on the HR.com Advisory Board. Service runs through the business as well. Humanized HR supports multiple nonprofits, and Kylie regularly volunteers her time as a speaker, grounded in her belief that human connection and candor help people thrive at work and in the community. More information can be found at humanizedhr.org.

In a world of fast furniture and disposable design, Larkspur Upholstery Studio stands out as a proudly woman-owned business known for quality furniture, soft goods and expert craft. From expert reupholstery, restoration, and repair to custom soft furnishings and goods, Larkspur also carries two lines of furniture built with integrity by generational makers in the AMY AINSLEY southeastern US: Temple Furniture and Parker Southern. With true hardwood frames, hand-tied springs, top-tier padding, and exceptional fabric and leather selections, every piece is built to outlast viral trends. At the heart of Larkspur Upholstery Studio is an all-women team driven by skillful expertise and community. We are deeply committed to elevating women in the trade, actively training female upholstery and sewing apprentices to pass down traditional, high-quality furniture-making skills. No matter your aesthetic, our team delivers your vision. You’re invited to visit Larkspur Upholstery Studio’s gallery to experience our craftsmanship, see our team in action, and feel the difference for yourself. Drop by during studio hours (Monday–Thursday, 9 to 5; Friday, 9 to 4) or send us an email at LarkspurUpholsteryStudio@gmail.com to schedule a quieter, personalized consultation. #PrintProudDigitalSmart