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Vol. 90

No. 2

A publication for current and retired employees of the Metropolitan Utilities District

pg. 2 // Employees tour new HQ

pg. 11 // P4K volunteers recognized

pg. 4 // Graduates

pg. 12 // ‘Leak logger’ pilot project underway

pg. 5 // New wellness program unveiled

pg. 15 // Retiree Walt Coy turns 101

pg. 10 // District water now ‘On Tap’

pg. 18 // Historic arch removed from Downtown

Employees ‘lighten the D

owntown employees got a glimpse of their new “home” June 21 during a ribbon cutting and tour at the District’s new headquarters, located at 7350 World Communications Drive. Employees from the Operations Center who will eventually relocate to the new headquarters also got an opportunity to tour the building. More than 125 employees from downtown will move to the new building beginning this fall in a temporary set-up until construction and remodel is complete. At that time, permanent seating will be determined and employees from the Operations Center will begin their move. Construction is set to begin this summer at the current headquarters at 1723 Harney Street, which was purchased in April by Douglas County. In an effort to clean out unnecessary items from the downtown office, employees have been tasked to “lighten the load.” To date, four tons of paper has been recycled. Iron Mountain has taken 225 boxes of files to an off-site storage facility. Computers, servers and network gear amounting to 4,917 pounds was recycled by Motherboard Recycling and more than 425 pounds of electronics was properly disposed of. A “Lighten the Load Sale” took place June 19 to get rid of miscellaneous items found during clean-out. Proceeds from the sale totaling $327 benefited the District’s Heat Aid Fund.

VOL. 90 No. 2 Summer 2019 TAPS & JETS is published quarterly for current and retired employees to inform them about the District, activities and accomplishments of its employees. Your comments are welcome. Please send comments and suggestions to: TAPS & JETS, Metropolitan Utilities District, 1723 Harney St., Omaha, NE 68102-1960; email jessica_heidebrecht@mudnebr.com or call 402.504.7204. Follow us on Twitter (@mudomahane) and Facebook (facebook.com/mudomahane) for alerts, photos and news. Board of Directors: Chairman Tim Cavanaugh, Vice-Chairwoman Gwen Howard, Jim Begley, Tom Dowd, David Friend, Jack Frost and Mike McGowan. President: Mark Doyle Editor: Jessica Heidebrecht Photographer: Jay Roberts 2

Taps & Jets

On the cover... Employees from the Downtown office tour the District’s new headquarters June 21. Employees will begin moving into the new building, located at 7350 World Communications Drive, this fall.

load,’ tour new HQ

Opposite page, top: Staff from Motherboard Recycling load computers to be recycled. Donations are made available at an affordable cost for non-profits, low-income families and persons with disabilities. Opposite page, bottom: Every employee at the District received a “New HQ, Same Great Team!” shirt to celebrate the new headquarters. Above: Tiffany Hudson, Accounting, cuts the ribbon with President Mark Doyle June 21 at the debut of the District’s new headquarters. (Photo by Jessica Heidebrecht.)

Left: Employees walk through the open space of the new building, which will be occupied by more than 300 employees.

Summer 2019

Congrats, graduates!

Class of 2019

Diamond Cook

Luke Doyle

Jacob Friesz

Omaha North H.S. Cheryl & Kevin Miller

Univ. of Nebraska-Omaha B.S. Molecular & Biomedical Biology; Chemistry minor Mark & Aldona Doyle

Millard South H.S. Saint Albert H.S. Metro. Community College Dylies & Erik King Associate’s degree Megan Murray & Chris Walter

Springfield Platteview H.S. Pius X H.S. Chad & Kendra Koehler Jeff Kohn

Papillion-La Vista South H.S. Todd & Diana Lambert

Molly Mailahn

Andrea Meinders

Raechel Meisinger

Briana Murphy

Erin Murphy

Sarah “Leo” Murphy

Iowa State University Culinary Science Tim Mailahn

University of Nebraska Medical Center Doctor of Medicine, General Surgery Steve & Linda Meinders

William Jewell College B.S. Nursing Sherri Meisinger & Perry Lightfoot

Millard North H.S. Doug & Ann Murphy

Marquette University Biomedical Engineering Doug & Ann Murphy

Millard North H.S. Metro. Community College Doug & Ann Murphy

Megan Oswald

Taylor Rippe

Alissa Schovanec

Andrew Wollenburg

Tyler Wollenburg

Mercy H.S. Mark Oswald

University of Missouri-KC Bradley University B.S. Business B.S. Marketing Administration Jeff & Val Schovanec Cheryl Rippe

Millard West H.S. Jon & Cindy Wollenburg

Missouri Valley College Graphic Design; Accounting minor Jon & Cindy Wollenburg

Taps & Jets

Maggie King

Kaleigh Koehler

Maximilian Kohn

Grace Lambert

Wellness program focuses on

arlier this year, the Human Resources department introduced a new employee wellness program — BALANCE. Through a “Name our Wellness Program Contest,” Carrie Hunter, Customer Service, suggested the name “Balance.” The Human Resources team selected this program name and developed a logo that encompassed the various aspects of wellness in our lives including mental, physical, financial and more. “The new program name and logo help signify the importance of maintaining a sense of balance in your life in order to achieve your best self and a sense of well-being,” said Katie Pulte, Human Resources. In addition to naming the program, a wellness committee was formed. Members include: Linda Flott and Jo Stephens, Accounting; Carrie Hunter; Dan Murphy, Safety & Security; Annette O’Brien, Customer Accounting; and members of the Human Resources team. The committee is tasked with finding ways to get employees motivated about their well-being and becoming more health conscious. “Each day it is important to be conscious of living as healthy as we can to ensure a long and happy life,”

Events: 10K timed run 2-mile walk

said Carrie. “To do this we need to balance all aspects including mental, physical, emotional, financial and spiritual health and wellness. The pursuit of this is not always easy but I believe it is beneficial and extremely rewarding.” Various initiatives are already underway as part of the new program. Walker Tracker was recently launched as a way to encourage employees to achieve their activity goals and build healthy habits. The second annual Bike Day was in June and a District team is being formed for this year’s Corporate Cup. Lunch & Learn opportunities are currently being planned and the annual Benefits Fair is scheduled for October 22. Similar to previous years, employees have the opportunity to earn a gift card reward up to $125 as part of the District’s wellness reimbursement program by completing an annual physical exam with lab work and participating in up to five wellnessrelated events. Also available again this year, employees and their spouses participating in the District’s health insurance plans are eligible to complete an online Personal Health Assessment during open enrollment to earn an additional gift card reward.

Join the M.U.D. team at http://bit.ly/CorpCupMUD

Bintou Taal, Information Technology, attends Bike Day with her children, Mariama and Modou. The second annual event was June 22 in the North Lot. A kids’ bike course was set up, a mechanic from The Bike Rack provided bike checks, helmet fittings and seat adjustments were offered and natural gas mascot Sniffy made an appearance. Attendees rode their bikes along the Keystone Trail and had the opportunity to win raffle prizes. (Courtesy photo.)

For more information about the wellness program, contact Katie at 402.504.7881 or katie_pulte@ mudnebr.com.

September 8 8:00 a.m. Aksarben Village

Summer 2019

promotions & transfers

Rocky Barraza

John Becklun

Robert Blakley

Joey Blecha

Rena Bobier

Shalon Buffum

Dale Bumgardner

Customer Service Technician Trainee

Utility Worker

Senior Mechanic

Plant & Wellfield Maintenance Worker

Customer Service Clerk II

Director, Customer Service

Group Leader

Marty Deal

Marissa Decker

Tony Dillow

Mick Dulik

Joe Flegg

Jesse Foust

Chris Griesman

Water Plant Engineer

Administrative Clerk II

Foreman

Machine Operator I

Pipe Layer

Pipe Layer-Welder

Chemist I

Nick Kiscoan

D.J. Klusaw

Rick Lanegan

Mike Latka

Jamie Marotta

Lucas Matulka

Dee McCracken

Customer Service Technician Trainee

Senior Customer Service Technician

Water Maintenance Worker

Water Plant Shift Foreman

Apprentice Customer Service Technician

Administrative Clerk V

Chad Plog

Ryan Plott

Brandon Pokorski

Donna Saggs

Lori Seefus

Josh Shannon

Paul Sherry

Plant Maintenance Person I

Customer Service Technician Trainee

Senior Customer Service Technician

Administrative Clerk III

Customer Service Technician-Fitter

Customer Service Technician Trainee

Field Services

Water Pumping

Field Services

Water Pumping

Construction

Field Services

Transportation

Construction

Water Distribution

Field Services

Platte West Plant

Construction

Water Pumping

Customer Service

Construction

Field Services

Facilities Management

Customer Service

Construction

Field Services

Employee Assistance Program â€˘ 402.354.8000 â€˘ bestcareeap.org 6

Taps & Jets

Construction

Water Quality

Field Services

Jorge Cardenas

Randy Carey

Alex Cervantes

Brandon Christensen Luke Colbert Construction

Construction

Curt Crews

Kyle Crum

Machine Operator I

Meter Reader-Reread

Apprentice Customer Service Technician

Utility Worker

Stationary Engine Mechanic

Machine Operator I

Leigh Hellbusch

Alan Hendricks

Dan Hussey

Darrell James

Benjamin Johnson

Russ Kastens

Kevin Kent

Utility Locator

Gas Plant Operator

Customer Service Technician Trainee

Apprentice Customer Service Technician

Foreman, Mechanical Maintenance

Crew Leader

Kevin McWilliams

Trisha Miller

Nathaniel Million

Larry Moyers

Jason Muller

Bob Nielsen

Todd Pignotti

Group Leader

Administrative Clerk III

Pipe Layer

Utility Worker

Group Leader

Senior Mechanic

Cherie Shryock

Luke Smedra

Dave Story

Bob Taylor

Janetta Walker

Dave Zapata

Adam Zierott

Stores Clerk I

Machine Operator I

Utility Locator

Senior Design Engineer

Administrative Clerk III

Senior Customer Service Technician

Utility Worker

Construction

Safety & Security

Construction

Stores

Meter Reading

Gas Production

Field Services

Construction

Field Services

Construction

Safety & Security

BENEFITS FAIR

Field Services

Construction

Engineering Design

Field Services

Construction

Meter Reading

Facilities Management

Construction

Field Services

Construction

Stores

Transportation

Construction

OCTOBER 22 FIREFIGHTERSâ€™ UNION HALL 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM 60TH & GROVER Summer 2019

DeBoer, Schaffart promoted to senior team T he District’s board of directors promoted Dave DeBoer to senior vice-president, Chief Operations Officer, and Joe Schaffart to senior vice-president, Chief Financial Officer, at its June meeting.

Sarah — and three granddaughters, Mila, Giana and Elise. Dave enjoys working on cars, golfing, growing hops and traveling.

Joe joined the District in 2013 and most recently served as vice-president, Dave has 22 years of service with the Accounting. Prior to joining the District, District and most recently served as vicehe held leadership roles in several president, Marketing and Rates. Prior companies including vice-president and Dave DeBoer Joe Schaffart to joining the District, he was a project controller for First Data Resources, senior engineer for HDR and a senior design engineer for Omaha director of accounting for West Corp. and manager of cost Public Power District. Dave received his bachelor’s degree accounting for Northern Natural Gas. Joe earned bachelor’s in mechanical engineering from the University of Nebraska- and master’s degrees in business administration from the Lincoln and has Professional Engineer and Certified Energy University of Nebraska-Omaha and is a Certified Public Manager certifications. Additionally, Dave was an instructor Accountant (CPA) and Certified Management Accountant. at the University of Nebraska’s Peter Kiewit Institute and is He is a member of the American Institute of CPAs, a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Institute of Management Accountants and the Great Plains Governmental Finance Officers Association. Dave and his wife, Deb, have two children — Josh and

Hunter, Myers named vice-presidents

he District’s board of directors promoted Shane Hunter to vicepresident, Safety, Security and Business Continuity, at its June meeting.

Shane is an aviation enthusiast and enjoys history. He is also a scuba instructor with Diventures and Scuba Schools International. He and his wife, Debbie, have four children and six grandchildren.

Shane joined the District in 2017 as manager, Safety. Prior to that, he was an assistant fire chief for the City of Omaha Fire Department. Shane joined the United Shane Hunter States Air Force out of high school in the Security Police field and was assigned to Offutt Air Force Base. He also served as a firefighter for the Cal Fire/ Riverside County Fire Department in California.

Mark Myers was promoted to vicepresident, Accounting, at the July board Mark Myers meeting. Mark joined the District in 2015 as manager, budgeting and financial analysis.

Shane earned an associate’s degree in fire science from Southeast Community College. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Leadership and a Master of Science in Security Management from Bellevue University. Shane was the first in the state to be credentialed by the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) as a Type-3 “All-Hazards” Incident Commander. Shane serves on the American Gas Association’s (AGA) Occupational Safety and Health Committee and is chairperson for the AGA Gas Worker Safety and Security Task Force. Shane is also a Department of Homeland Security National Incident Management System/Incident Command System instructor.

He is a CPA and is a member of the American Institute of CPAs, Nebraska Society of CPAs and the Great Plains Government Finance Officers Association. Mark also serves as treasurer at Trinity Lutheran Church and is a mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands.

Taps & Jets

Mark has more than 30 years of experience in a variety of accounting and finance positions with organizations including the City of Bellevue, First Data Corporation and First National Bank of Omaha. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska-Omaha.

Mark and his wife, Michelle, have a daughter, Lexie, and son, James. Mark enjoys spending time with his family, playing guitar, traveling and woodworking.

kudos

Customers recently wrote or called to praise the work performed by these employees.

Kim Ash

Jerry Barrett

Jake Benak

Nick Buhr

Mike Conrad

Kyle Crum

Dave Dalhoff

Marc Davis

Dan Delgado

Jim Fleming

Mike Flynn

Zachary Folda

Fred Foster

Michael Freeman

Briana Fuller

Steve Guardiola

Joe Guyott

Mike Hall

Tom Hicks

Rosemarie Jones

Curtis Matthews

Rick Moreno

Chris Muhlbauer

Dan Murcek

Paul Otto

Ryan Plott

Julia Romero

John Rumsey

Frank Sliva

Mike Szymczak

Tom Todd

Bob Urbach

Jerod Urban

Travis West

Dallas Wilson

Customer Service

Construction

Customer Accounting

Field Services

Water Distribution

Field Services

Construction

Field Services

Water Distribution

Field Services

Water Distribution

Field Services

Law Department

Field Services Summer helper

Water Distribution

Construction

Field Services

Construction

Field Services

Customer Service

Water Distribution Summer helper

Water Distribution

Meter Reading

Field Services

Construction

Field Services

Construction

Summer 2019

District water now ‘On Tap’

“W

ater so good we had to brand it.” That is the driving idea behind the District’s new water brand. In June we launched “M.U.D. On Tap,” a campaign giving hype to our highquality H2O. The bright, bold symbol brings recognition, confidence and increased credibility to the safe and reliable water the District supplies to our customers every day while showcasing every vital employee who helps ensure it’s always available. Through storms and flooding, drought and heat — whatever the circumstance — we strive to ensure clean water is available to every person in our service area any time, day or night. “It is important for us to tell our story. The fact that our employees are constantly ensuring our customers have water when they turn on the faucet and gas when they raise the thermostat or take a hot shower is critically important,” said Stephanie Mueller, vice-president, Corporate Communications & Customer Success. Through M.U.D. On Tap people see the logo and recognize that the water they are drinking exceeds safety expectations at all levels.

Board director Mike McGowan, vice-chair Gwen Howard and director Jack Frost fill their water bottles July 3 at the mobile hydration station.

This summer, M.U.D. On Tap is being displayed on bus benches and billboards in Omaha. We’ve even enlisted a new 300-gallon hydration station to bring M.U.D. On Tap straight to those in the community. A rolling sign itself, the new station gives 16 people the opportunity to fill up at any given time. Using it at Omaha Farmers Markets and other outdoor events such

as concerts and races allows us to serve up the freshest and finest water in fun and inviting settings. So, as we say, “Gulp it, Sip it, Chug it, Drink it.” M.U.D. On Tap is more than a brand, it’s a public service announcement telling everyone we serve that our water is worth every penny.

The mobile hydration station provides water to attendees June 30 at the Omaha Farmers Market in Aksarben Village. 10

Taps & Jets

P4K employee volunteers recognized Partnership 4 Kids (P4K) employee volunteers were recognized for their commitment to helping students set and achieve goals, and prepare for the future. The District has been involved with the organization for the past seven years.

During the 2018-19 school year, 19 of our employees joined more than 450 other volunteers as Book Buddies and Goal Buddies in elementary schools across the Omaha metro, including Belvedere, Field Club, Franklin, Jackson, Kellom, Miller Park, Sherman and Skinner. More than 5,600 students in 22 Omaha Public Schools and a variety of post-secondary institutions participate in P4K programs.

Volunteers recognized May 24 at a pizza luncheon include, from left: Tracey Christensen, Corporate Communications; Cindy Bacon, Marketing; District Board Vice-Chair Gwen Howard; Cheryl Hugo, Customer Accounting; Jo Stephens, Accounting; Chief Operations Officer Dave DeBoer; Dylies King, Customer Accounting; Georgianna Cimatoribus, Stores; P4K Operations & Community Specialist Deb Shaw; Anna Bennett, Information Technology; Jim Dorsey and Annette Oâ€™Brien, Customer Accounting; Julie Thacker, Customer Success; and Gail Dominski, Customer Accounting.

The Board of Directors recognized P4K volunteers at its June 5 meeting. Pictured, from left: P4K President Deb Denbeck; Tracey Christensen, Corporate Communications; P4K Operations & Community Specialist Deb Shaw; Cindy Bacon, Marketing; Debbie Gardner, Credit Services; Reina Walls, Customer Service; Anna Bennett, Information Technology; President Mark Doyle; Annette Oâ€™Brien and Dylies King, Customer Accounting; Jo Stephens, Accounting; Gail Dominski, Customer Accounting; and Julie Thacker, Customer Success. Summer 2019

Hydrant technology detects potential leaks

retirements

he District is staying ahead of issues underground with new hydrant technology.

This summer the Water Distribution department embarked on a pilot project installing 50 so-called “leak loggers” on hydrants in downtown Omaha. The new technology is attached to the hydrants and sends data almost instantly from a given area about potential pipe issues. Working with a vendor to receive and analyze the data, Water Distribution is notified of any potential leaks. “Using leak-loggers is a proactive solution that can ultimately save the District and our customers headaches in the future,” said Gene Siadek, director of Water Distribution. “Ultimately catching the potential problem before it turns into an emergency event saves us time and money and allows us ample opportunity to alert our customers about any potential outages that may occur.” The pilot project will last one year. If successful the devices will be added to additional hydrants.

Mark Ausdemore

Ed Buglewicz

Mark Hogberg

Mark Ausdemore, foreman, Construction, retired May 11 with 39 years of service. Mark joined the District in 1979 as a special laborer, Construction. He was promoted to pipe layer II in 1982 and named machine operator in 1984. Mark advanced to utility worker in 1993, crew leader in 1995, group leader in 2003 and foreman in 2007. Prior to joining the District, Mark worked at Kellogg’s. Mark and his wife, Kim, have a son, two daughters and nine grandchildren. In retirement, Mark plans to boat, fish, hunt and shoot. He also plans to travel to Indiana to visit his son’s family. Ed Buglewicz, vice-president, Field Services, plans to retire August 21 with 39 years of service. Ed joined the District in 1980 as a special laborer, Construction. He was promoted to pipe layer II in 1982 and machine operator in 1984. In 1985, Ed transferred to Field Services as a mechanic’s helper and was promoted to junior mechanic in 1987. Ed was named apprentice customer service technician in 1988 before advancing to customer service technician in 1989, customer service technician-welder in 1992 and night senior customer service technician in 1998. In 1999, Ed was named foreman, Gas Distribution. He was promoted in 2004 to superintendent, Field Services, and named vice-president in 2015. Prior to joining the District, Ed was a seasonal employee for the City of Omaha Public Works department. He attended the University of NebraskaOmaha and Bellevue University. Ed served as executive board chairman and president of IBEW Local 1521. He is a current member of the Family Focus Federal Credit Union Board of Directors and spent 16 years on the credit committee.

As part of a pilot project, 50 hydrants in downtown Omaha are being equipped with technology that detects potential pipe issues. 12

Taps & Jets

Dan Hulsebus

Carol Kramer

Dennis Madsen

In his spare time, Ed enjoys cooking, golf and fishing. He and his wife, Karri, have two sons and two daughters. They live at 1500 Fairway Cir., Ashland, NE 68003; 402.521.4872; eb4872@gmail.com. Mark Hogberg, foreman, electrical and instrument maintenance, Facilities Management, retired July 6 with 37 years of service. Mark joined the District in 1981 as an auto mechanic II, Transportation. He was named auto mechanic I in 1982 and mechanic in 1988. In 1990, Mark transferred to Facilities Management as an apprentice electrician before being promoted to electrician in 1993 and senior electrician in 2004. He was named foreman, electrical and instrument maintenance in 2005.

Joe Malnack

Dave Ramos

Dan advanced to gas plant operator in 1994, gas plant engineer in 1998 and instrument technician in 1999. Prior to joining the District, Dan worked as a laborer, carpenter and HVAC technician. He attended electronic trade and HVAC schooling. In retirement, Dan plans to spend time with his family, fish and camp. Dan and his wife, Lori, have a daughter, two sons and four grandchildren. Carol Kramer, administrative clerk II, Customer Service, plans to retire August 3 with 14 years of service. Carol joined the District in 2005.

Dennis Madsen, training foreman, Construction, retired June 29 with 31 years of service. Dennis joined Prior to joining the District, Mark the District in 1987 as an operator II, was an automotive technician at Water Operations. He transferred to Baxter Chrysler Plymouth. He has an Construction as a special laborer and associateâ€™s degree from Metropolitan Community College. In retirement, Mark then became a pipe layer trainee. He was promoted to pipe layer in 1989, machine plans to work around the house, travel and welcome his first grandchild this fall. operator in 1992 and utility worker in 1996. Dennis was promoted to crew Mark and his wife, Leslie, have three leader in 2000, group leader in 2007 and sons. The couple lives at 5411 N. 97th training foreman in 2012. St., Omaha, NE 68134; 402.571.1834; Joe Malnack, maintenance mechanic mjhogberg@cox.net. II, Facilities Management, retired Dan Hulsebus, instrument technician, June 1 with 38 years of service. Joe Gas Production, retired June 1 with 26 joined the District in 1981 as a special years of service. Dan joined the District laborer, Construction. He was promoted in 1992 as a meter reader, Meter Reading. to maintenance mechanic helper in 1987 Later that year, he was promoted to gas and pipe-fitter 1987. In 1995 he was plant operator trainee, Gas Production. promoted to maintenance mechanic II.

Tom Riley

Dave Roberts

Dave Ramos, senior customer service technician, Field Services, retired June 23 with 23 years of service. Dave joined the District in 1995 as a pipe layer trainee, Construction. He was promoted to mechanical service helper, Field Services, in 1997. Dave transferred to customer service technician trainee in 1999 and was promoted to apprentice customer service technician in 2000, customer service technician in 2002 and senior customer service technician in 2018. Tom Riley, group leader, Construction, retired June 8 with 22 years of service. Tom joined the District in 1997 as a pipe layer trainee, Construction. He was promoted to pipe layer in 1999, machine operator in 2000 and utility worker in 2012. Tom advanced to crew leader in 2014 and group leader in 2015. Dave Roberts, building engineer, Facilities Management, retired May 16 with 40 years of service. He joined the District in 1979 as a laborer, Water Pumping. Dave was promoted to meter reader, Meter Reading, in 1980. He then transferred to Water Operations as a water plant operator II and was promoted to operator I in 1982. In 1986, Dave transferred to Gas Distribution as a drip pumper and then became a gas maintenance worker in 1988. He transferred to Facilities Management as a building engineer in 2013.

Summer 2019

Hundreds enjoy picnic at Fun-Plex

Nearly 1,000 employees, retirees and family members attended this year’s company picnic June 8 at Fun-Plex. Attendees enjoyed mingling with others, rides, the waterpark, a sand volleyball tournament, dinner and bingo. Pictured clockwise: Thirstin (Annette O’Brien, Customer Accounting) stops for a photo with Jerod Urban, Field Services, and his daughter Maria and son Jeremiah. // Amelia Moran, Customer Service; Veronica Walker, Customer Success; Amelia’s son Julian; and retiree Charlie Giddens work at the registration table. // Steve Guardiola, Field Services; guest Mike Hutcherson; Darrell James, Field Services; and Steve’s step-son Caiden Dymek. // Retiree Jim and Kitty McElwain and Bernadine and retiree Jim Zielinski. // Jay Schnider, Customer Accounting, and his son Noah. (Photos by Tyson Robards.) 14

Taps & Jets

At age 101, retiree Walt Coy still going strong By Tracey Christensen

taying active has helped retiree Walt Coy enjoy a long life — he turned 101 this past May 30. To give some perspective, Walt was born in 1918, a year before the District took control of the gas company. “You can’t sit still,” said Walt, when asked about the reason for his relatively good health and post-retirement longevity. He takes care of his own household chores including shopping, cooking, laundry, cleaning, yardwork and snow removal. The key is to “do a little each day,” he said, and to keep his memory sharp he works on puzzles and word searches. Walt also drives, although with a much newer vehicle than the Model T Ford he learned to drive in St. Joseph, Missouri. He came from a large family with eight siblings and he learned to work hard. Walt moved to Omaha in 1938. He worked for an oil company and the Burlington Railroad before joining M.U.D. in 1941 because of the offer of steady employment at a wage of 55 cents an hour. Always “mechanically minded,” Walt started as a laborer, Gas Operations. In 1944, he went into the U.S. Army to serve with a bridge company that hauled bridges for the combat engineers in Germany. After World War II, Walt returned to the District and its Construction division. He worked four years as a sub-foreman and 30 years as a foreman before retiring in 1983 at age 65 with 42 years of service.

Walt Coy in his garage in April 2019. (Photo by Tracey Christensen.)

M.U.D. was “a good place to work,” and he maintains friendships with fellow District retirees, joining them for lunch the first Monday of every month at the Ralston Keno. Retiree Bob Hoult said Walt was tough but respected and he and his fellow employees learned a lot from Walt’s years of experience. Walt said memories that stand out include lots of work when the interstate system was being built in the 1950s. He also proudly recalls installing 6-inch coated and wrapped main at 25th and Chandler Road and 6-inch steel main to Eppley Airfield. “When not laying main, we had crews working on gas leaks, putting in gas services and making repairs,” he said. They started using plastic gas piping in the late 1970s or early 1980s. When he’s not busy with chores or fixing things, Walt enjoys spending time with his friends and family. He has three grandsons, three great-grandsons, two greatgranddaughters and several nieces and nephews. His daughter, Judyth, passed away several years ago from leukemia. Last year, his family hosted a party to celebrate his 100-year birthday. Asked about his age, he said, “I don’t feel any different.”

In the 1950s, Walt (center) invented a drill holder that protected workers’ toes when operating a pneumatic drill to make bar holes. He and his safety device, which was used for many years, were featured in Taps & Jets. Summer 2019

in memoriam Homer Baldwin, 97, died May 19. He was an instrument and control technician, Maintenance, when he retired in 1987 with 24 years of service. Homer joined the Homer Baldwin District in 1962 as an operator, Water Pumping, advancing to stationary engineer before moving to Maintenance in 1969. Bernard “Barney” Chandler, 80, died June 8. He was a foreman, Field Services, when he retired in 1999 with 39 years of service. Barney joined the Barney Chandler District in 1960 as a meter reader, Meter Reading. He transferred to Field Services in 1962 as a tapper’s helper. Barney was promoted to mechanic’s helper in 1963, junior mechanic in 1965, senior mechanic in 1966 and utility mechanic in 1967. He was named senior customer service technician in 1967 and promoted to night senior customer service technician in 1989 and foreman in 1992. Rudolf “Rudy” Dufek, 77, died June 11. He was a senior customer service technician, Field Services, when he retired in 2002 with 39 years of Rudy Dufek service. Rudy joined the District in 1963 as a laborer in Construction and transferred to Measurement in 1965 as an apprentice meter mechanic. He was promoted to mechanic’s helper, Field Services, in 1967 and advanced to junior mechanic 16

Taps & Jets

in 1971, customer service technician in 1973 and senior customer service technician in 1997. John “Dick” Dunn, Sr., 90, died March 18. He was a foreman, Field Services, when he retired in 1990 with 41 years of service. Dick began his Dick Dunn career as a laborer, Gas Distribution. He moved to Field Services in 1949 and was promoted to foreman in 1964. Lawrence “Larry” Eggers, 75, died April 24. He was a chart technician, Gas Distribution, when he retired in 2004 with 36 years of service. Larry served in the Larry Eggers U.S. Army before joining the District in 1968 as a laborer, Construction. He was promoted to gas maintenance worker, Gas Distribution, in 1971, to regulator operator in 1992 and to chart technician in 1995. Milton Grayes, 53, died May 30. He was a pipe layer-welder, Construction, with 13 years of service. Milt joined the District in 2006 as an auto service person, Milton Grayes Transportation, and was promoted to pipe layer trainee, Construction, in 2008. He advanced to pipe layer in 2010 and to pipe layer-welder in 2017. Steve Little, 50, died June 11. He was a biologist II, Water Quality, with 24 years of service. He joined the District in 1994 as an administrative clerk I,

Marketing and Field Services. He was promoted to water maintenance trainee, Water Distribution, in 1995 before being promoted to water maintenance Steve Little worker in 1998. He was named water laboratory technician, Water Quality, in 2003. Steve became a general maintenance mechanic, Water Distribution, in 2005 and was promoted to biologist II, Water Quality, in 2006. Steve was an active member of the District’s Employee Speakers Bureau and served as an officer. Ronald Lueders, 90, died April 10. Ron was chief welder, Maintenance, when he retired in 1990 with 34 years of service. An Army veteran, Ron joined Ron Lueders the District in 1956 as a welder and was promoted to chief welder in 1979. He was a member of the District’s Outdoors Unlimited Club and held leadership positions with the Veterans Club. Clinton Mitchell, 78, died June 15. He was a gas plant utility person, Gas Production, when he retired in 2002 with 41 years of service. Clint joined the Clint Mitchell District in 1961 as a laborer, Construction. He advanced to pipe layer II before becoming a gas plant utility person, Gas Production, in 1969.

Carol Murillo, 57, died May 19. Carol was a customer account clerk III, Customer Accounting, when she was placed on LTD in 2013 with 20 years of service. She joined Carol Murillo the District in 1992 as a part-time steno clerk and advanced to full time in 1993. She was promoted to customer account clerk III in 1996.

Alex Perea

Eliseo “Alex” Perea, 53, died May 6. Alex was foreman, Water Distribution, with 24 years of service. He joined the District in 1992

Leo Wilwerding, 88, died April 10. Leo was superintendent, Water Distribution, when he retired in 1993 with 43 years of service. Leo Wilwerding Besides Water Ulrich “Jack” Distribution, his Redmond, 89, career included supervisory positions died April 26. He in Construction, the President’s Office was an electrician, Maintenance, when he and Field Services. Leo also held retired in 1992 with 43 leadership positions in the Midwest Gas Association, Dirty Dozen Waterworks, years of service. Jack Employee Speakers Bureau, Kiwanis, joined the District Jack Redmond Gifford Park Association and St. Cecilia’s in 1948 as a laborer, Catholic Church. Water Pumping. He was promoted to electrician, Maintenance, in 1954. as a meter reader, Meter Reading, and transferred to water maintenance trainee, Water Distribution, in 1998. Alex advanced to water maintenance worker in 2000, general maintenance mechanic in 2008, valve maintenance mechanic in 2009, crew leader in 2010 and foreman in 2015.

30 attend ICAN Women’s Leadership Conference

Thirty employees represented M.U.D. May 15 at the 2019 ICAN Women’s Leadership Conference. The event featured networking opportunities, keynote speakers and breakout sessions. Pictured, from left: Lynn Thompson and Lindsay Dreckman, Information Technology; Esmeralda Ocana, Customer Accounting; Janetta Walker, Meter Reading; Stephanie Henn, Plant Engineering; Geneva Patterson, Rates; Jessica Couture and Katie Pulte, Human Resources; Tiffany Jackson, Contractor Services; and Nickie Brandis, Engineering Design. Those also in attendance were: Bintou Taal, Information Technology; Leatha Bland, Remittance Processing; Shalon Buffum, Customer Service; Pattie Cannon, Customer Accounting; Raksha Chhetri, Water Quality; Tracey Christensen, Corporate Communications; Denise Dolezal, Engineering Design; Jena Hall, Dispatch Office; Lisa Herren, Accounting; Sue Lobsiger, Information Technology; Tiffany Mantz, Customer Accounting; Jessica Martin, Water Quality; Dee McCracken, Field Services; Nicole Molzer, Measurement; Stephanie Mueller, Corporate Communications & Customer Success; Maria Rangel, Customer Service; Priya Reddy, Information Technology; Tyson Robards, Law Department; Tina Valentin, Construction; and Reina Walls, Customer Service. (Photo by Tracey Christensen.) Summer 2019

Historic arch headed to Florence Water Treatment Plant

In preparation of the Districtâ€™s move from downtown, contractors remove the historic arch from in front of the downtown office May 11. The arch will be reinstalled near the Minne Lusa Pump Station at the Florence Water Treatment Plant.

ESB appearances reach more than 152,000 customers The 62nd annual Employee Speakers Bureau recognition dinner was May 8 at the Scott Conference Center in Aksarben Village. Twenty-nine members were recognized for their commitment to the organization and our community. Members gave 123 presentations and reached 152,874 customers during the 2018-19 membership year

Those in attendance were, seated, from left: Jay Schnider, Customer Accounting; M.U.D. Board Member Mike McGowan and Vice-Chairwoman Gwen Howard; Anna Bennett and Bintou Taal, Information Technology; Sarah Jones, Marketing; and Veronica Walker, Customer Success. Standing, from left: Cherie Shryock, Stores; Rocky Barraza, Field Services; Chris Walter, Meter Reading; Tiffany Mantz, Customer Accounting; Laraine Harris, Customer Service; Wanda Fry, Customer Accounting; Cindy Bacon, Marketing; Tara Virgilito, Contractor Services; Cheryl Rippe, Accounting; Jim Dorsey, Customer Accounting; Emilio Llibre-Berriel, Credit Services; Dylies King, Customer Accounting; Mark Kriegler, Plant Engineering; Megan Murray, Customer Success; Marcela Chudomelka, Field Services; Jo Stephens, Accounting; Castro Okuom, Information Technology; Annette Oâ€™Brien, Customer Accounting; Carissa Rodrigues, Dispatch Office; Lisa Mills, Credit Services; Ray Goldsberry, Plant Engineering; Celeste Garvis, Dispatch Office; Bonnie Savine, Human Resources; and Tyson Robards, Law Department. (Photo by Claire Smith.)

Taps & Jets

new employees

Crystal Badger

Laxman Challa

Marc Davis

Donald Gallagher

Robert Hastings

Corey Janzen

Jared McConnell

Water Analyst I

Manager, Systems Architecture HANA

Pipe Layer Trainee

Michael Quinn

Jay Roberts

Eric Schendt

Jared Svagera

Jared Tomes

Trent Volenec

Andrew Waszgis

Pipe Layer Trainee

Infrastructure Engineer

Engineer I

Pipe Layer Trainee

Senior Engineering Technician

Water Quality

Engineering Design Engineer I

Information Technology Construction

Corporate Communications

Construction

Marketing

Construction

Engineering Design

Digital Media Specialist

Construction

Plant Engineering

M.U.D. hosts 9 educator interns

Nine educators spent a week learning about the District as part of this yearâ€™s Educator Internship Program. Upon completion of the weeklong internship, educators formulated ideas for lesson plans to use in their classrooms. This is the fifth year the District has participated in the program, which is coordinated in association with the Greater Omaha Chamber, Iowa Western Community College and Metropolitan Community College. Pictured at the LNG Plant are, standing, from left: Plant manager Bill Rice; Michaela Schwartzkopf, Riverside Community School; Liz Dickson, Millard South High School; Bill Kelly, St. James/Seton Catholic School; Marilyn Abbott, Treynor Community School District; Cindy Bacon, Marketing; Rachel Jacobsen, Mockingbird Elementary; and Pat Carlson, Griswold High School. Kneeling: Crystal Bolamperti, Westside Middle School; Brenna Wragge, Omaha North High School; Katie Clark, Fullerton Magnet Elementary; and Sabrina Nihsen, Rates summer employee. Summer 2019

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