2026 SENIOR COALITION VISITS

The purpose of the Senior Coalition is to offer monthly community education to the retired community. This committee is open to all retired (or age of retirement) Kearney Chamber members. It also provides a great opportunity to stay connected, learn something new, and engage with fellow members in a meaningful way. For more information, please contact the Membership Director, Heather Ullman, at hullman@kearneycoc.org.

January - University of Nebraska Medical Center

The group was led on a tour by the Director of Operations and Community Engagement, Nicole Campbell. She showed us the new technology, classrooms, simulators, and other fascinating opportunities medical students get to experience through their learning. We also learned about a program requiring Standardized Patient / Simulated Participant (PSP). This program allows volunteers to act as a patient, family member, fellow professional, or community member in a training simulation for medical or government institutions. Trainees work with SPs to navigate complex situations they will encounter in their profession while honing their communication and critical thinking skills. Perks to volunteering for this program include flexible hours, guaranteed minimum wage compensation, and the ability to help medical students learn in a realistic form of training. Those interested in volunteering, contact Traci McKeon at tmckeon@unmc.edu or call 308-865-1146.

February - The Knot Shop

Considering the capacity level of this establishment, the Senior Coalition was asked to split into two separate meeting times, and both presentations were full of seats, samples, and Sayler - Kyle Sayler, that is! Kyle is the owner of the newly introduced snack shop that has everyone in town buzzing! Different themed flavor combinations and refreshing lemonade have customers lined up around the corner. On opening day, that was literally the case! On day one, they had so many customers, they went through 60 lbs. of dough! The menu features both classic bites and bold creations, including the “Juggerknot”, which is loaded with pepperoni, ham, jalapenos, parmesan, and a drizzle of the shop’s signature “Knotty Sauce.” In the near future, we look forward to seeing some new surprises Sayler has in store, promoting these salty (and sometimes savory) treats!

March - Penny Coffee Roasters

This group is not shy when it comes to their coffee! That's why I knew they would love our March location, Penny Coffee Roasters! Tim Craig has transformed his vision into a spacious coffee oasis in the middle of Downtown Kearney. It's the perfect spot for studying, catching up, meeting with clients, or just swinging by to quench your craving for caffeine! They also have a food menu full of mouth-watering options such as Grown-up grilled cheese, the “Timwich”, and the Ham and cheese melt. Don't forget my favorite, the fresh lemon scones! Presenting at our meeting were Kelsey Anderson with Downtown Kearney and Mayor Jonathan Nikkila with information regarding the GoodLife District. Kelsey shared the amazing news that The Bricks Creative District has been awarded a $100,000 Development Grant from the Nebraska Arts Council to help them continue growing arts and culture in downtown Kearney! This funding will support exciting improvements across the district, including the Art Alleyways project, expanded artistic programming, and additional support to help bring more creative initiatives to life. Jonathan provided information regarding the GoodLife District.