STRICTLYBUSINESSOMAHA.COM
OMAHA • MARCH 2019
HERE AT MCGILL RESTORATION,
• Spring Cleaning • Commercial Construction • Joining Organizations Client Spotlights • UNL Online • No Coast Business Advisors • Predictive Technology, Inc.
AGO
Strictly Business Magazine PO BOX 57397, Lincoln, NE 68505
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RIVER CITY SIX
In This Issue
who we are matters just as much as what we do.
ROBBIE NATHAN ELENA O’CONNELLBridge to Better Living CENTAMORE Home Nursing With Heart
JENNY LEIDY North Risk Partners
CHRIS LANGER Langer Electric
MARCH 2019 Strictly
LORI SORENSEN FireGuard Inc.
LISA JENSEN Creative Hair Design Business 1 Salon & Spa
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There will be times you miss the most important meeting of the day. That might not be a big deal to other companies, but it is to us. Cox Business knows the sacrifices you make for your business. That’s why we work right alongside you with personal service from experts in your hometown, offering 24/7 support. You can find us hard at work any time, day or night, because we care about you and your business. FAST, RELIABLE INTERNET
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SWITCH TODAY. Call (402) 934-3891 or visit coxbusiness.com *Offer ends 4/30/19. Available to new commercial data and voice subscribers (excluding govt agencies and schools) in Cox service areas. $84.00/mo includes VoiceManagerSM Essential with unltd nationwide long distance and Cox Business InternetSM 50 for mos. 1-6 and $99.00 for mos. 7-36. Price based on 3 yr. contract. Early term. fees may apply. Std. rates apply thereafter. Prices exclude equipment, installation, construction, inside wiring, taxes, surcharges and other fees, unless indicated. Offer is nontransferable to a new service address. Uninterrupted or error-free Internet service, or the speed of your service, is not guaranteed. Actual speeds vary. Rates and bandwidth options vary and are subject to change. DOCSIS 3.0 modem may be req’d, unless indicated. See www.cox.com/internetdisclosures for complete Cox Internet Disclosures. Unlimited plan is limited to direct-dialed domestic calls and is not available for use with non-switched-circuit calling, auto-dialers, call center applications and certain switching applications. Phone modem provided by Cox, requires electricity, and has battery backup. Access to E911 may not be available during extended power outage or if modem is moved or inoperable. Telephone services are provided by an affiliated Cox entity. Services are not available in all areas. Discounts can’t be combined or added with other promotions nor applied to any other Cox account. †Visa prepaid card available with qualifying new services ordered and activated between 1/1/19 and 4/30/19 with min. 3 yr. contract. Must mention “reward promo” when placing order. Account must remain active, be in good standing, and retain all services for a min. of 30 days after install. Online redemption req’d by 5/31/19 and must follow instructions rec’d after service activation. Limit one card per customer, total not to exceed $200. Allow 15 days after redemption for delivery. Card is issued by MetaBank, FDIC, pursuant to a license fromMARCH Visa U.S.A. Inc. No cash access or recurring payments. Can be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. Card valid for up to 6 months; unused funds will 2 ® Member Strictly Business 2019 #PrintProudDigitalSmart forfeit after the valid thru date. Card terms and conditions apply. Other restrictions apply. © 2019 Cox Communications Inc. All rights reserved.
CLIENT SPOTLIGHT
BUSINESS SMARTS: EARN YOUR BSBA ONLINE
START INVESTING IN YOUR OWN ROI Because business is broad, the door to its possibilities is open wide. Stacey Schwarz, Online Program Recruitment Specialist for the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK), sheds light on what sets the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program apart in helping to meet the needs of so many students and professionals. Experiential learning—Examination of real-world business situations that translate from the online classroom to a business or organization.
When Krista Wilson decided it was time to head back to school for her bachelor’s degree in business she knew it would require balancing current work and life responsibilities with her coursework. Working full-time for over 10 years at a contracted company for the federal government, Wilson knew the online degree route was the best option for her current life. The University of Nebraska at Kearney’s (UNK) Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) online degree program is ideal for working adults interested in furthering their skills and knowledge in core business concepts. This program is designed to empower business leaders to attain additional marketable credentials and take the next step for their business career. “I was attracted to UNK’s BSBA because I have an interest in being an entrepreneur and having my own business, as well as an interest in law, among other different facets. All of my career interests circle back to business, so this degree is relevant to whatever path I decide to take,” said Wilson.
Stacey Schwarz Online Recruitment Specialist
Entrepreneur-friendly courses—Preparation to start, expand, or lead a business by taking courses that best meet the student’s unique business needs. Customizable program options—Consultation with UNK program coordinators to plan out elective and minor program coursework of most benefit to the student. Industry-focused faculty—Instruction from qualified faculty who have extensive professional experience working in business industries. Flexible online format—Ability to fit coursework or the degree into a busy schedule while continuing to work in the industry.
In the fast-paced world of business, an online BSBA through UNK can help individuals invest in their future on their schedule. The BSBA is a fully online degree, which allows flexible timeframes for coursework. Students can log in and complete assignments during the time of day that works best for them. Access and flexibility make it possible for adult students to gain a solid foundation in several aspects of business alongside other responsibilities. “Online learning is for those that learn well on their own time. I don’t think there’s anything better than being able to do my coursework in my own house, on my time, after my son goes to sleep and I can sit and focus,” Wilson said. Online classes are very interactive with communication through email, discussion forums and chat groups. Pursuing the UNK BSBA makes you a part of a community you can benefit from. Students work with an adviser, from application to graduation, who helps tailor the program unique to them. Core coursework includes: •Accounting •Business law •Business communications •Finance •Operations and supply management •Social responsibilities •Management information systems Graduates of the BSBA online degree program earn a four-year degree in Business Administration from UNK. The BSBA program requires 35 credit hours for the BSBA major plus completion of a minor. Core courses are offered each semester, with minor courses offered concurrently on a rotating basis.
In addition to the university’s accreditation, the online BSBA program is accredited by AACSB International, the highest standard of achievement for business schools worldwide.
Whether you are a company employee climbing the ladder, a small business owner seeking a competitive edge or a professional changing careers, the BSBA at UNK is helping Nebraskans move forward in their goals. Get started at: online.nebraska.edu/bsba University of Nebraska Online is the University’s collaborative distance education initiative focused on providing greater access for more students to the high-quality courses and program offered online by the four campuses of the university system. In addition to the Business Administration, BS program, the University of Nebraska offers more than 125 online programs. Visit the University of Nebraska Online at online.nebraska.edu to view all programs.
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MARCH 2019 Strictly Business
3
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
PAIGE ZUTAVERN - Omaha/Lincoln - President 402-730-0096 | Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com
Magazine Media In 2019: What’s Old Is “New” Consumers want to be believe in who they do business with and what they decide to invest their money in, and let’s be honest, the things we see online can’t always be taken at face value. Any business with the right budget can pour money into boosting Facebook posts and/or sponsoring a Google listing, but that doesn’t make them a credible business...or the best. That is why print media, specifically magazine publications like Strictly Business, continue to maintain a reputation for being a trusted source of information. We are very proud of the confidence we’ve earned from our readers in Lincoln and Omaha. After 25 years of publishing relevant, reliable, and original content. People know that they can open Strictly Business without having to question if the content is true or not. So, what will we see happen in 2019 as far as magazine media goes? In a Folio: article written by Casey Welton, titled “3 Predictions for Magazine Media in 2019,” he notes that there are a couple essential mantras to keep in mind in 2019. One of his mantras is, “What’s ‘old’ is ‘new.’” According to Welton, the oldest of the “new” things is good storytelling. I want to bring attention to this because storytelling is one of the major pillars of Strictly Business’ Unique Selling Proposition (USP). It’s the purpose behind the editorial pieces you see in the magazine, like client spotlights, River City Sixes, and even all the press we include! “It’s fundamental to what we all do, whether you’re an editor or marketer. Let’s be frank; content is now a commodity, but good content is not.” writes Welton. Welton admits to being optimistic on the subject, but he thinks that “in 2019, we will see publishers putting even more emphasis on content that differentiates theirs from a deep sea of click-bait.” He goes on to note that “even though scale is what advertisers ultimately seek, the ROI is considerably better when aligning a brand with a quality content product that reaches a quality audience.” Hallelujah! Welton’s article continued to echo my own sentiments on the topic, especially when he divulged that “publishers were creating engaging content, but platforms like Facebook were perceived to be taking
a larger cut than deserved when distributing it. Still, it’s undeniable that social channels were also offering increased scale for publishers. That is, before they kept tweaking their algorithms.” Another old “new” thing that “...the oldest of the “new” Welton addressed goes things is good storytelling... along with what I mentioned storytelling is one of the major earlier. “A few years ago pillars of Strictly Business’ you heard a lot of buzz like Unique Selling Proposition.” ‘social media is the new SEO.’ Well, in 2019, SEO is the new SEO.” Welton states. Search traffic is booming for publishers and it accounts for around half of the traffic publishers are bringing in, which is nearly double what social media accounts for. Like Welton, I don’t expect some sort of “mass exodus” away from social media this year or even next year, but I am still anticipating a decrease of enthusiasm from industry leaders across the board towards social media marketing/advertising. As many have found, it can be like pouring money into a black hole. The last thing businesses that are striving to increase their credibility what to get mixed up in is “fake news,” fake clicks, and questionable metrics. That all being said, social media still plays an important role in reaching consumers and connecting with the local marketplace. That is why the Strictly Business team shares our editorial on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram as a way to further promote business news in Lincoln. The content published on our website also helps our clients rank higher on Google due to it being original and backlinked. This is how we stay Print Proud and Digital Smart! In fact, posts to our website are seen by over 1.2 million users every month in Google search results, and many of those are highly ranked. This is due to the fact that we produce organic, valuable content you cannot find anywhere else. Ultimately, like I’ve said before, by getting in front of your target audience and developing a relationship on and off screen, there’s a deeper and more tangible connection that’s formed. Let Strictly Business Magazine help you lock in your status as THE EXPERT in your industry, utilizing print, the internet and social media. Find out how by contacting Paige at (402) 466-3330.
CONTENTS NEWS
4 Business 22 Personnel
29 Non-Profit 35 Health
SPOTLIGHTS
1 10 16 34 40
UNL Online No Coast Business Advisors River City Six Foster Care: CEDARS Predictive Technology, Inc.
FEATURE STORIES
37 Spring Cleaning 41 Commercial Construction 46 Joining Organizations 4 Strictly Business MARCH 2019
Sarah
Holly
Hannah
PRODUCTION TEAM: Editor Hannah E. Hundley - Editor@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Art Director Holly Ryan - Design@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com SALES TEAM: President/Sales Paige Zutavern - Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Executive Assistant Sarah Young - Office@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Publisher/Founder/Accounting Shayne Zutavern - SZutavern@yahoo.com 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. Printed in the U.S.A. Copyright ©2019 by PZAK, Inc. Third Class Postage Paid at Lincoln, NE 68505
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OMAHA • MARCH 2019 STRICTLYBUSINESSOMAHA.COM
WORKING AT MCGILL RESTORATION IS A GREAT CAREER CHOICE!
At McGill Restoration, we invest in our employees! In the construction industry, it can be difficult to stay busy and maintain a consistent career. We work hard to keep our employees busy year-round. We also take pride ORATION, in our training programs, which we HERE AT MCGILL REST offer to our employees throughout the year. In the first six months of 2019, we have committed to providing 1,300 hours of training to our field employees. This training includes our Foreman in Training Program (FIT), operator training for our specialty equipment, and hands-on training for our field employees to learn new skills, which will advance them within our trade. Along with training for our field workers, we offer training and education for our office personnel, administrative personnel and shop employees as well. We believe to retain good employees, we need to elevate them! Continued training is important to McGill Restoration, and ensures that our employees learn and grow both as individuals, as well as members of our company. The Foreman in Training (FIT) Program is a way of identifying leaders that we can train and develop into foremen for McGill Restoration. FIT participants are invited to take part in an extensive training program and given the tools for success as a foreman within our business. We believe that training and development is important for our employees to grow. Our goal is to provide people with the necessary tools to make the transition from field employee to foreman as successful as possible. In ThIs Issue
• Spring Cleaning • Commercial Construction • Joining Organizations Client SpotlightS • UNL Online • No Coast Business Advisors • Predictive Technology, Inc.
much as what we do.
RIVER CITY SIX
who we are matters just as
ROBBIE NATHAN ELENA O’CONNELLBridge to Better Living CENTAMORE Home Nursing With Heart
JENNY LEIDY North Risk Partners
CHRIS LANGER Langer Electric
LORI SORENSEN FireGuard Inc.
LISA JENSEN Creative Hair Design Salon & Spa
McGill Restoration also partners with industry organizations to participate in the educational opportunities they provide. We regularly partner with organizations such as Association of General Contractors (AGC), International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI), Sealant Waterproofing and Repair Institute (SWRI), and Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) to help educate and train our team. We recently brought on two estimator/project managers in our continued quest to hire top talent. Over the next several years, we will invest in these two team members, continually providing them with training and tools for success within our trade. Part of our strategy to retain good employees is to promote them once they have gained the knowledge and tools needed to be leaders within our company. Many of our management level positions are currently held by people who have climbed the career ladder with our company, making a long-term commitment to the training and work ethic valued by McGill Restoration. With the unemployment rate at a record low, recruiting within the construction field can be difficult. However, our reputation has allowed us to choose the best employees for our business. We want to help our employees succeed, as long as they have the desire and the drive to do so. McGill Restoration is currently seeking to fill the following positions within the Omaha office: superintendent, laborers, foremen, accounting specialist, and a mechanic. If you are interested in one of the many opportunities that we have available, please apply on our website www.McGillRestoration.com. McGill Restoration offers a benefit and compensation package that is second-to-none. We are looking for determined individuals who take pride in their craftsmanship and believe in working the “McGill Way!”
AGO
Strictly Business Magazine 68505 PO BOX 57397, Lincoln, NE
Are you ready to start your career? Omaha: (402) 558-7989 | Lincoln: (402) 438-4110 | McGillRestoration.com
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www.StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com MARCH 2019 Strictly Business
5
BUSINESS NEWS Fleetmark Solutions Announces Date for Customer Appreciation Night
Chamber Hosts Ribbon Cutting to Welcome Business Optimizer & Partners
Fleetmark Solutions has announced that its customer appreciation night will take place on Friday, June 14 from 7 to 11 p.m. The business invites you to join them for fun, food, and fireworks (provided by the city of Papillion). The shop’s location (207 N Jackson St.) has a great view of the Papillion firework show, just behind the shop. Fleetmark encourages you to bring your family and, while not mandatory, they’d appreciate if attendees bring a side dish, potluck style! This will be a fun time for all and a way for the Fleetmark team to thank all of their friends, family, and customers for their continued patronage throughout the years.
The Business Optimizer & Partners, owned by Anthony (Tony) Goins, provides executive coac hing, tailored consultant engagements, workshops, and more. On January 4, the Greater Omaha Chamber, along with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Capital Cigar Lounge to welcome Tony and his business as a new chamber member. The mission of Business Optimizer & Partners is to always create partnerships that WIN. Tony is a servant leader that lives by the philosophy “to whom much is given, much is required.” His experience gives him a deep understanding of the moving parts in organizational operations and the drivers of exceptional customer service. He underscores that companies must be crystal clear on how to differentiate their business model from the competition, articulate their value proposition, and understand the competitive landscape. With more than 20 years in banking, finance, and leading large operational functions, Tony is an expert at creating a culture of excellence. If you desire to become a better leader, coach, and improve the results of your company, Business Optimizer & Partners provides C-Suite executives with clear and specific guidance on improving performance. They do this by listening, asking questions, and talking through analytical processes, which lead to a variety of best-case solutions. The process provides the executives with the confidence to operate in real situations. Learn more Business Optimizer & Partners online at www.tbo2.com or contact Tony at (214) 984-7070 / AG@TBO2.com.
Fleetmark Solutions specializes in commercial fleet maintenance and repair. Gas, diesel, large, small—with Fleetmark’s resources, they can do it all! They understand that your business depends on your commercial vehicles, that is why the dedicated team at Fleetmark Solutions is here to help you keep your business running with efficient and effective fleet maintenance and repair services. For more information about Fleetmark Solutions, please visit www.fleetmarksolutions.com or contact their shop at (402) 715-4487.
SAC Museum Presents “SciPop Interactive” Featuring Superheroes and Harry Potter The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum is proud to once again partner with the Nebraska Science Festival, an initiative of the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), as a host facility for hundreds of youth who participate in this celebration of all things science. On Saturday, April 6, guests ages 12 and under will received free admission for a SciPop Interactive event that is part of a month-long science festival. Sponsored by the Nebraska Local Section of the American Chemical Society and the University of Nebraska, SciPop Interactive includes science demonstrations and hands-on activities that highlight the mystery and illusion of pop-culture icons from Harry Potter, and comic books. Guests are encouraged to wear their favorite costume in support of their favorite comic book or Harry Potter character. There will be fun hands-on activities from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., including Herbology and Potions of Harry Potter lessons, explore the universe by playing with color and light like your favorite space explorers, or create your own ice ball like your favorite comic book superheroes and supervillains and more. There will be make-and-take projects for the first 500 youth, which include an invisible ink potion, and create a comic book. Scientists will take the stage at various times and demonstrate the magic and mystery of chemistry in our world and beyond. Professor Rebecca Lai will discuss Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Among Us at 12 p.m. in the Museum’s theater. Guests will learn about the chemistry of several notable fantastic beasts from the world of Harry Potter world and a few of our more magical earthly creatures. This Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum event is free for guests ages 12 and under. General admission is $12 for adults and $11 for seniors or military. The museum is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Learn more online at sacmuseum.org or call the museum at (402) 944-3100. 6 Strictly Business MARCH 2019
Scantron Technology Solutions to Sponsor Annual FutureOps Conference Scantron Technology Solutions is proud to sponsor the 9th annual FutureOps conference, which will be held on April 25 from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Holiday Inn & Suites, located at 2202 River Rd. (next to the Ameristar Casino) in Council Bluffs. The conference will provide tech education and insight specific to banking professionals. It also includes continental breakfast, snacks, a sack lunch, many great door prizes, and a round table session. FutureOps is an Omaha-area bank technology conference that attracts banking professionals from all over Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and South Dakota. There were 25 vendors and 70 banks in attendance last year. During the course of the conference, there will be multiple tracks with several 30 to 35-minute sessions. Attendees love this format because it gives them the important bullets for many different topics and solutions in a condensed day. Topics of discussion include: Mobile banking, consulting services, core providers, disaster recovery, security solutions, ITM & ATM products, and web design. In addition, Scantron will deliver sessions on Managed IT Services and Managed Print Services. Register for the conference on the FutureOPS website (www. futurebankops.com) or call (800) 888-2135 and ask to sign up for the FutureOPS event. Omaha-based Scantron Technology Solutions has been a leader in managed IT solutions for more than 35 years. Scantron empowers growth through intelligent, mission-critical assessment, technology, and data capture solutions for business, education, certification, and government clients around the world. Learn more at www.scantron.com/omaha or call (402) 697-3308. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
BUSINESS NEWS Yield Champions to Host Final Pro-Ag I Program March 14–15
Bridge To Better Living Announces Franchise Opportunities
Yield Champions will be hosting the final Pro Ag I Program of the year in Kansas City on March 14 and 15. This two-day crop production intensive is designed for producers of corn, soybeans, wheat, and alfalfa, as well as their agronomists, seed, and fertilizer suppliers. The program is offered across the U.S. each year.
Bridge to Better Living is proud to announce the launch of Bridge to Better Living Franchising. Franchises officially became available February 12, 2019 in all areas of the country. A Bridge to Better Living Franchise owner will have the special opportunity to work one-on-one with seniors and their families. Bridge to Better Living locations give guidance and expert assistance during each step of the difficult process of navigating retirement living options at no cost to the client. Every step of the process is significant in having a successful placement. Bridge to Better Living has helped thousands of families and seniors find a better quality of life using their approach of serving clients with enthusiasm, integrity, and respect.
The focus of this program is on reducing input costs while increasing yields. This is a unique program that many of the NCGA State and National Yield Champions credit with having provided them with the knowledge necessary to increase their yields and profits. Jordan Nun, vice president of Yield Champions says, “We’re excited to be able to bring cutting-edge fertility training to our customers and clients as well as opening up these programs to seed and fertilizer dealers, farm managers, land owners, and other agricultural professionals.” The goal of Yield Champions is to equip crop producers with the necessary resources to better understand the constantly changing industry of agriculture. To preview the concepts shared at the program, go to www.300BushelCorn.info. For more information on tickets to this event, visit www.YieldChampions.com or contact JodanDNun@gmail.com / (402) 540-1545 (call/text).
Midlands Community Foundation Raises $740K in Matching Charitable Program Midlands Community Foundation (MCF) is pleased to announce that its sixth MCF Matching Charitable Program that ran from Giving Tuesday, November 27, 2018, through January 7, 2019, raised nearly $740,000, with $429,680 qualifying for matching funds. Under the Matc hing Charitable Program, MCF provided matching funds for new contributions made to existing and newly created Affiliated General, Designated, Donor Advised, Field of Interest, and Scholarship Funds. Matching donations were made on a dollar-fordollar basis up to a limit of $5,000 per individual donor, and subject to a maximum of $100,000 of matching dollars being available in the aggregate for all funds. Because more than $100,000 was contributed on an aggregate basis to all funds, the matching dollars were pro-rated among such donors based on the total contributions made. “We are pleased to offer this opportunity to our 130 charitable funds, providing them with greater awareness and visibility, connecting them with new supporters, and giving donors an incentive to support all of the good work these funds are doing in our community,” said Tonee Gay, Midlands Community Foundation executive director. The mission of Midlands Community Foundation is to benefit the diverse needs of the Sarpy and Cass county communities by providing financial support, involvement, and service. Since its inception, the foundation has donated more than nine million dollars to many worthy organizations through its grants program, discretionary giving, and special events. Learn more by calling (402) 991-8027 or visit midlandscommunity.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
Mary Ann Stallings founded Bridge to Better Living in 2010. Today, Bridge to Better Living has grown to six consultants serving Lincoln, Omaha, and surrounding communities. Each additional franchise will continue Bridge to Better Living’s philosophy of Placement with Passion®. For more information on Bridge to Better Living Franchising opportunities, call (866) 753-9783 or email BBLFranchise@BridgeToBetterLiving.com. Learn more about how Bridge to Better Living’s transition consultants assist seniors to find the best quality of life when choosing a move to an independent, assisted, memory assisted, or long-term care senior living community by visiting bridgetobetterliving.com.
Nebraska Recycling Council to Host Free Events on Construction Waste Diversion Nebraska Recycling Council is hosting two free events in March on the subject of construction and demolition waste diversion. The first event will be a webinar held on March 6 at noon CST. The webinar is entitled, “Construction & Demolition Waste Management Theory and Practice.” Dan Hartsig of WasteCap Wisconsin and Brittney Albin of Lincoln Public Schools will be presenting. Mr. Hartsig will highlight the key characteristics of successful construction waste management planning, including the types and quantities of waste materials generated, the most cost-effective outlets for these materials, responsibility for oversight, and handling instructions needed to meet project goals. Lincoln Public Schools requires that all recyclable material such as wood, metal, and cardboard be separated from trash during building and remodeling projects. Contract requirements, the oversight process, and outcomes on their building and remodeling projects will be shared. The link to register is register.gotowebinar.com/register/325239234563081986. In addition, on Thursday, March 21, the Nebraska Recycling Council will host a Construction & Demolition Mixer for builders, architects, haulers, and vendors at the Lancaster County Extension Office (444 Cherrycreek Rd., Lincoln) from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Local vendors that accept a variety of scrap materials from builders will be on hand to provide information on what materials they accept, their quality standards, and tipping fee, if applicable. Light snacks and beverages will be provided. Registration is strongly encouraged and can be done at events.r20.constantcontact.com/ register/eventReg?oeidk=a07eg2iggxf10f95414&oseq=&c=&ch=. Nebraska Recycling Council is a statewide, member-based, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Their goal is to re-energize resource recovery in Nebraska through innovation, education, training, and the power of collaboration. Visit www.nrcne.org for more information, or contact (402) 436-2384 / info@nrcne.org. MARCH 2019 Strictly Business 7
BUSINESS NEWS Nebraska Society of CPAs Holds Annual Business and Industry Conference
Business Ethics Alliance Announces Kickoff of 2019 Events
On Thursday, April 25, The Nebraska Society of Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) is holding their Annual Business and Industry Conference at The Cornhusker Marriott in Lincoln. There will be an exciting lineup of speakers and topics! Registration and breakfast begin at 7:45 a.m. and the conference will be held from 8:20 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.
The Business Ethics Alliance will begin their 2019 programming year with a pair of events in March. At the Spring Ethics Luncheon on March 12, panelists Paul Fraynd, Sun Valley Landscaping; Cindy Powers, Seldin Company; and Keith Station, Heartland Workforce Solutions will discuss ethical recruiting practices. Business leaders, non-profit directors, and HR managers will benefit. On March 20, the Executive Breakfast will feature Dr. Jeffrey Gold, UNO & UNMC Chancellor, who will share his expertise in corporate governance. Guests should arrive early for coffee and networking. This event is open to C-suite executives, owners, founders, presidents, and executive directors only. Guests can learn more and register for both of these events online at businessethicsalliance.org/events. In partnership with the Omaha business community, the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, the Better Business Bureau, and Creighton University Heider College of Business, the Business Ethics Alliance is the nation’s leading non-profit dedicated to city-level business ethics education. On October 22, 2019, they will host Omaha’s first-ever business ethics conference—EthicSpace. The inaugural event will inspire and equip attendees to build high-trust workplace cultures. Registration and event information can be found at ethicspace.org. As a non-membership, non-profit organization, Business Ethics Alliance invites everyone—from the C-suite to individual contributors and all in between—to join their cause. Learn more at businessethicsalliance.org or contact (402) 280-2235 / info@businessethicsalliance.org.
The event will open with an Economic Outlook presentation by Ernie Goss of Creighton University, followed by numerous speakers throughout the day from Five Nines, HRD Initiatives, Cline Williams, CFO Systems, CFO Services, and more. Presentations will include information about the Nebraska Advantage Act, employment law, cybercrime prevention, strategic mergers and acquisitions, succession planning and building your organization’s talent pipeline, and a corporate tax update. Please join the Nebraska Society of CPAs for this educational conference! The Nebraska Society of Certified Public Accountants is a dynamic association of nearly 2,600+ professionals dedicated to advancing the accounting profession and furthering the knowledge, competence, and performance of its members. The Society offers nearly 100 opportunities each year for CPAs and accounting professionals to meet and exchange ideas with their peers and develop leadership skills. For more information about The Nebraska Society of CPAs or to find out more about the event, please visit www.nescpa.org, email society@nescpa.org, or contact Kelly Ebert at (402) 476-8482 / kelly@nescpa.org.
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BUSINESS NEWS Pato Loco Mexican Restaurant Celebrates Re-Opening Under New Ownership The Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce helped Pato Loco celebrate their grand re-opening under new ownership with a ribboncutting ceremony on February 12. Guests were able to enjoy free street tacos and Mexican dessert. Papillion’s mayor, David P Black, was even there to officiate the ribbon cutting. Shannan Slobodnik is the new manager and owner of Pato Loco Mexican Restaurant. Previously the owner of Thirsty’s Pub in Gretna for two years, Slobodnik was ready for a change and decided to buy the restaurant on January 7. Pato Loco is a family-owned and operated Mexican restaurant that is located at 120 Olson Dr. in Papillion. It has a family friendly atmosphere with a large menu, great drinks, amazing food, and the best happy hour specials. The restaurant’s hours are Tuesday–Saturday, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. and Sunday, 12–4 p.m. Pato Loco offers happy hour specials Tuesday– Saturday, 3–5:30 p.m. and all day on Sunday. For more information, visit their website at patolocomexicanrestaurant.com or call the restaurant at (402) 934-0131. You can also connect with Pato Loco on Facebook (@PatoLocoPapio).
Greater Omaha Chamber Announces 2018 Capital Investment Exceeds $1.4 Billion The Greater Omaha Chamber announced 2018 capital investment, angel capital, new-to-market businesses, and additional six-county accomplishments at their Annual Meeting held on January 24 at CHI Health Center in Omaha. Regional capital investment exceeded $1.4 billion, bolstered by economic development projects that included 33 new-to-market companies and business expansions. More than 101 startups, fueled by angel/venture capital investment in excess of $145 million, also contributed to 2018 achievements. Additional annual repor t data (www.omahac hamber. org/2018annualreport) indicated the region’s multi-partner REACH initiative, a multi-faceted program designed to connect small and emerging businesses with business education, technical assistance and capital, facilitated 26 startups; while the region’s largest two-state food incubator, Kitchen Council, launched, offering members access to a fully equipped commercial kitchen and a foothold in the new food economy. The Annual Meeting also included a slate of recognitions: • Chairman’s Award of Excellence—Justin Hughes, Renaissance Financial and Greater Omaha Chamber’s Engagement Council, and Jill Schoenherr, Southwest YMCA and Greater Omaha Chamber’s Engagement Council. • Headliner of the Year—Terence Crawford, WBO welterweight champion, B&B Sports Academy. • Volunteer of the Year—Tim Kerrigan, Investors Realty, Inc. Deb Calvert, president of People First Productivity Solutions and coauthor of Stop Selling & Start Leading®, was this year’s keynote speaker. The mission of the Greater Omaha Chamber is to champion a thriving business community and a prosperous region through visionary leadership and collaboration. Learn more online at www.omahachamber.org or call (402) 346-5000. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
BLUEBARN Theatre Presents “Indecent” BLUEBARN Theatre is excited to present Indecent by Paula Vogel. The production will run from March 21 through April 14, Thursday–Saturday at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, March 31 and April 14 at 2 p.m.; and Thursday, March 7 at 6 p.m. General admission ($35) and senior ($30) tickets are available at bluebarn.org. Educator, Military, and BLUCrew tickets are available through the box office (402) 345-1576. Inspired by the true events surrounding the controversial 1923 Broadway debut of Sholem Asch’s God of Vengeance—a play seen by some as a seminal work of Jewish culture, and by others as an act of traitorous libel, Indecent charts the history of an incendiary drama and the path of the artists who risked their careers and lives to perform it. Paula Vogel’s Tony award-winning masterpiece is a glorious celebration of the power of theatre to harness the very best of the human spirit. Indecent features Sam Bertino, Leanne Hill Carlson, Ezra Colón, D. Scott Glasser, Jonathan Purcell, Judy Radcliff, Olga Smola, Jonathan Wilhoft, Kate Williams, and Suzanne Withem. Directed by Susan Clement, with choreography by Melanie Walters, music direction by Hal France and Olga Smola, dramaturgy by D. Scott Glasser, scenic and lighting design by Steven Williams, sound design by Bill Kirby, and properties by Amy Reiner. The production is generously sponsored by Vernie and Carter Jones, Fran and Rich Juro, and Kim Jubenville. The BLUEBARN Theatre (bluebarn.org) has been bringing professionallyproduced plays to area audiences since 1989. Since its inception, BLUEBARN has produced over 100 plays and has established itself as Omaha’s professional contemporary theatre company.
Better Business Bureau Warns Businesses of All Sizes are at Risk of Scams Last year, the Council of Better Business Bureaus (CBBB) published “Scams and Your Small Business Research Report.” The report stated that in many cases, scams that target small businesses are similar to the types of scams that focus on the general public (e.g., tech support, fake checks, charity). But that is not always the case, and there are certain types of scams that are specifically focused on businesses (e.g., fake invoice/supplier bill, directory listing, and advertising fake customers). Scammers exploit the full range of communication channels to make contact with their targets, and readily adapt new communication methods or popular media. Phone is the top means of contact for business scams. While consumers are routinely advised not to answer calls from unknown numbers, businesses likely answer their phones whether they recognize the number or not, as these callers could be clients or new customers. Even though the majority of small businesses (58%) agree or strongly agree that their company’s risk of being scammed is low, approximately six out of 10 also agree or strongly agree that they are concerned about business scams. The key reasons businesses reported being concerned are related to the potential impact of scams on the business (e.g., reputation, costs, time, and lost customers), the proliferation and sophistication of scams, and the need to put more emphasis on preventive measures. It is important for businesses to understand that scammers can target businesses of any size and in any industry with a multitude of high-tech or low-tech schemes that are ever evolving and adapting. Better Business Bureau has been serving the local communities since 1936. The overall mission of BBB is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. Learn more online at bbb.org/nebraska, or call (800) 649-6814. MARCH 2019 Strictly Business 9
BUSINESS NEWS HETRA Celebrates 30 Years, Makes Final Payment on Property
Hillcrest Supports Parkinson’s Nebraska with Pancakes for Parkinson’s Event
This year, HETRA (Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy) is celebrating 30 years of serving the Omaha community. The group credits their success to the support from the community over the last few decades.
Hillcrest Health Services hosted a pancake benefit for Parkinson’s Nebraska at Hillcrest Country Estates Grand Lodge on March 1 from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. The Pancake Man® was there to entertain guests and serve a pancake breakfast for a freewill donation. All proceeds from the benefit will go to Parkinson’s Nebraska, a 501(c)3 charitable organization committed to helping those in Nebraska who are affected by Parkinson’s disease. Donations to the organization are used to educate communities and caregivers through access to resources and information. “Parkinson’s Nebraska is inspired by Hillcrest Health Services’ commitment to its residents, their families, and the local Parkinson’s community,” said Amber Winter, administrator of Parkinson’s Nebraska. “We are excited to partner again for another fun year with The Pancake Man® at the Pancakes for Parkinson’s event!” Hillcrest Health Services offers the region’s largest continuum of health services for aging adults, including independent and assisted living, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, long-term care, memory support, adult day services, certified skilled home health and in-home personal care, telehealth services, and hospice care. Hillcrest currently serves nearly 1,200 aging adults daily across 10 counties in Nebraska and Iowa. For more information, visit www.hillcresthealth.com or contact (402) 682-4800 /info@hillcresthealth.com.
In June of 2014, HETRA merged its two locations into one by taking possession of a 25-acre property in Gretna, NE. This was one of the biggest transitions in the history of HETRA. December 13, 2018 was equally rewarding, as the group made the final payment on the property. This was an incredible milestone for HETRA, laying down the foundation for future growth. Now, in its 30th year of service, HETRA has never been better positioned to expand even further. With expanding programs and a growing staff, HETRA continues on a sharp and swift upward trajectory. In 2018, they added a yearround Life Skills program, an Equine Assisted Learning program for at-risk youth, and hosted several pilot programs, which are coming to fruition in 2019. One of those programs is their Respite Caregivers Retreat. It’s designed to introduce Equine Assisted Learning to parents, caregivers, and families who spend their lives providing care and well-being for individuals who face numerous challenges. HETRA’s mission is to improve the quality of life both physically and emotionally of adults and children of all ability levels through equineassisted activities. Visit www.HETRA.org to learn more about HETRA.
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BUSINESS NEWS Showtime Photography Celebrates New Location in Bellevue Showtime Photography recently moved to a new location at 1025 Galvin Rd. in Bellevue. The Greater Omaha Chamber, along with the City of Bellevue and the Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce, helped Owners Terry and Shonda Ingram celebrate their relocation by conducting a ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 20. Terry and Shonda were joined at the event by their granddaughter Jerzi, along with the Mayor of Bellevue Rita Sanders, and various members of the Metro area. Terry and Shonda started Showtime Photography March of 2014. They provide photographic services for seniors, family portraits, baptisms, weddings, engagements, birthdays, anniversaries, retirements, promotions, church events, passports, head shots, model portfolios, and more. Their full-service studio also offers artwork to dress up your home or office. Showtime Photography is passionate about capturing the most beautiful and meaningful moments in a person’s life, and they provide their clients with products that will incite happiness and joy! Terry and Shonda hope to help preserve family memories that will be cherished for years, and they enjoy creating lasting relationships with their clients. If you would like to learn more about Showtime Photography, please visit www.showtimephotography-ti.com or connect with Terry Ingram by contacting (731) 267-4501 / ShowtimePhotography@cox.net. Showtime Photography is also on Facebook (@ShowtimeMemories).
Apartment Association of Nebraska Announces 2018 Stars of Excellence Winners The Apartment Association of Nebraska (AAN) is pleased to announce the 2018 Stars of Excellence winners. The Stars of Excellence is an annual awards event put on by the AAN to recognize those in the apartment industry that go above and beyond for residents and for the community. The event was held at A View on State the evening of February 22. This year, over 100 nominations were received for suppliers, leasing professionals, management, and maintenance staff. This year’s winners were: Assistant Manager of the Year - Kiya Shockey, Monarch Investment; Groundskeeper of the Year - Fulgencio Carcia-Vasquez, Lund Company; Leasing Professional of the Year - Kyle Muller, Lund Company; Maintenance Supervisor of the Year Jeremiah Leu, Lund Company; Rookie of the Year - Andrew Pierce, Monarch Investment; Regional Manager of the Year - Kelly Foral, Lund Company; Maintenance Technician of the Year - Aaron Swanson, Burlington Capital; Supplier of the Year - Cindy Gessert, Paul Davis Restoration; Owner of the Year - Metonic Real Estate Solutions; Management Company of the Year - Lund Company; Property Manager of the Year - Jenni Wiebke, Lund Company; Property of the Year - Huntington Park; Property of the Year - Square at 48; Volunteer of the Year - Sarah Thompson, Lund Company; Lifetime Achievement Award - Holli Tingelhoff, Commercial Investment Properties; Supplier Involvement - RentPath; Management Company Involvement -Lund Company. The Apartment Association of Nebraska is an affiliate of the National Apartment Association and was founded in 2002. For more information, visit www.aaneb.org or call the AAN office at (402) 333-5331. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
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Veterans In Business Forum Announces Upcoming Meetings The Veterans in Business Forum (VIBF) meets the first Friday of every month (0800-0900). Their next meetings are 1 March and 4 April at the University of Nebraska–Omaha College of Business Administration, Mammel Hall – Room 215, 6708 Pine Street, Omaha, NE 68182-0048. Guest speaker for March is Elizabeth Yearwood from the SBA (Small Business Administration). Tony Barnes from Victory Riding Academy is slated as the guest speaker for April. The mission of the Veterans in Business Forum is to provide business support, education, and advocacy to help veterans succeed in business and increase community awareness of veteran-owned business activities. Veterans, active duty, reservists, and civilians are welcome to join and support each other and veteran-related goals. For the latest information, to be a guest speaker, and/or to be added to the mailing list, contact Michel Thornhill at (402) 932-7243 / info@littlemountainwebdesign.com (email is preferable). Visit www. omahanebraska.com/VeteransinBusinessForumOmahaNetworking to learn more about the organization.
Keep Kids Alive Drive 25 “Live Forward! Run-Walk to Remember” Set for May 11 The annual Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® Live Forward! Run-Walk to Remember will be held on Saturday, May 11. The event will take place at Skutt Catholic High School, located at 3131 S. 156th St. Keep Kids Alive Drive 25 encourages you to either create a team or register as an individual on their website’s event page (www. keepkidsalivedrive25.org). The run-walk has three goals in mind: 1) Bring together family and friends of loved ones who have died in traffic incidents to remember and celebrate the life and love they shared. 2) Raise funds to support the mission of Keep Kids Alive Drive 25. 3) To remind attendees of all the right behaviors to practice behind the wheel in order to keep ourselves and others safe on and along roadways. Besides the run-walk, other attractions include food/drink, traffic safety education area, bounce house, raffle drawings, music, custom t-shirts, and overall/age group awards. Keep Kids Alive Drive 25® 2019 partners include Nebraska Safety Council and KMTV. Sponsors of this year’s event include GEICO, Vintage Financial Group, and Children’s Hospital. The organization is still welcoming additional sponsors. Contact tom@kkad25.org or call (402) 334-1391 with any questions. Learn more online at www. keepkidsalivedrive25.org. MARCH 2019 Strictly Business 11
CLIENT SPOTLIGHT
ATTENTION BUSINESS OWNERS GROSSING OVER $5 MILLION IN TOTAL SALES! If you’ve ever considered selling your business, or you’re curious to find out how much you could sell it for, let Jethro Hopkins with No Coast Business Advisors represent you at the M&A Source Dealmakers Expo in Orlando, FL! It’ll be way easier than doing the whole process yourself. No matter how seemingly straightforward, selling your business requires hours and hours of meetings, discussions, phone calls, negotiations, reviewing documents loaded with “legal-ese,” and other administrative tasks. Can you spare the time away from your business? For most business owners, that isn’t an option. The M&A Source Dealmakers Expo, May 12–15 in Orlando, FL, is designed to connect private equity firms with the M&A Advisors... it is the place to be to make deals happen. This is your chance to pitch your business outside of the market and find out how much it is worth! Jethro is willing to do the leg work for you and, as an experienced business broker and consultant, he knows what’s involved in the process of selling small and middle market companies.
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No Coast Business Advisors is specifically trained in the confidential sale of existing businesses to qualified buyers. Their first priority is confidentiality using nondisclosure agreements and they protect confidentiality before, during, even after the sale.
ABOUT NO COAST BUSINESS ADVISORS
No Coast Business Advisors, co-owned by Jethro Hopkins and Jeff Dousharm, is dedicated to providing their clients the most confidential sales process through quality representation and buyer qualification. The goal of No Coast is to help the business owners to succeed, whether that means selling a business, finding them an investor/ business partner, or helping them find the funding required to take the next step. Which is why they also include recommendations for accounting, legal services, financial advisors, and funding sources upon request.
ABOUT M&A SOURCE
M&A Source is a non-profit professional organization for middle market business intermediaries that provides training and education for small to mid-size business mergers and acquisitions intermediaries. Founded in 1991 as a division of the Business Brokers Association (IBBA), M&A Source comprises over 380 intermediaries across the world. The purpose of being a part of M&A Source’s community of business specialists is so that every No Coast broker can be the most educated for their clients’ sake, being knowledgeable of best business practices for a wide range of capital.
HERE IS HOW IT WORKS... call Jethro, a merger and acquisitions professional with No Coast Business Advisors, and say, “Hey Jethro! I’m 1 You interested in selling my business.” Jethro says, “Cool! Let’s set up a time to meet.” If you decide to let Jethro pitch your business directly to buyers at the M&A Source Dealmakers Expo, all you have
2 to do is set up a free consultation. Jethro will take it from there! He will review your business and put together a professional investment package for you, which is about a 30-page packet that you get to keep for future use!
Jethro will then take your investment package to the M&A Source Dealmakers Expo in Orlando and pitch your
3 business to buyers and Private Equity Groups (PEGs) who are all in the same room on the same day, representing hundreds of millions of dollars of available capital.
From there, you decide what happens next. If an offer is made, you can either make the deal or you can turn it
4 down and go on with business as usual. No one even has to know that you were considering selling at all. THAT’S IT...CONFIDENTIAL. EASY. NO LONG-TERM COMMITMENT. ONLY PAID ON SUCCESS.
CONTACT JETHRO TODAY TO GET STARTED! (402) 217-2833 JETHRO@NCBABROKER.COM | WWW.NOCOASTBUSINESSADVISORS.COM
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BUSINESS NEWS Goedecke Construction Equipment and Supplies to Host Open House at New Location
NextHome Signature Real Estate Opens First Nebraska Location
Goedecke Construction Equipment and Supplies, the construction industry leader in providing innovative solutions to professional contractors, has opened its first Nebraska location in Omaha. To get the word out about their commercial and residential services, Goedecke will host an open house all day on Wednesday, April 24. The event will allow attendees to tour the facility, meet with specialists and vendor representatives, and view product demonstrations. Guests are encouraged to stick around for refreshments and a chance to win various prizes in raffle drawings.
NextHome Signature Real Estate celebrated the opening of their first Nebraska location right here in Omaha with a ribbon cutting on November 30, hosted by the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce.
Goedecke’s mission is to build value through long-term relationships, supplying services, and delivering solutions to builders on their projects. Since its inception in 1947, Goedecke has provided customers with the best selection of construction equipment available in one place. Goedecke provides engineered products such as sealants and coatings, concrete forming and shoring products, and construction equipment. The company has a total of seven locations across Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, Indiana, and most recently, Nebraska. Their Omaha location is located at 526 Crown Point Ave. To RSVP for the open house, contact Nikki Kent at nkent@vlgoedecke.com. Visit goedeckeonline.com for more information or call the Omaha office at (402) 359-1756.
Star City BaconFest Announces 2019 Vendors Star City BaconFest 2019 returns to the Capital City for the fourth year on April 7 at Lincoln’s Cornhusker Marriott Hotel. Doors will open at 4:30 p.m., with bacon sampling continuing until 7 p.m. Entertainment throughout the evening will be provided by Screamers Dining & Caberet. Admission is $25 for adults, with c hildren 10 and under free. Tickets can be purchased online at starcitybaconfest.com or at the event.
The Omaha franchise is led by Owners Teresa Elliott and Travis Taylor. Joining them on the leadership team is Tony Taylor, director of marketing; Janice Klemmensen, director of operations; and Julie Wilson, chief financial officer. The business relationship between Teresa and the Taylors spans nearly 15 years. Working together on multiple real estate development deals, the trio has an amazing working relationship. The agents at NextHome Signature Real Estate will provide services such as first-time home buyer representation, investor purchases, multi-family purchases and sales, land representation, relocation services, foreclosure and short sales services, real estate design and development, and new construction. The brokerage will serve clients in both Nebraska and Iowa. In Nebraska, the agents will cover Lincoln, Valley, Ashland, Gretna, Elkhorn, Millard, Papillion, Bennington, Bellevue, and the remainder of the Omaha Metropolitan Area. They will also help residents in the city of Council Bluffs, IA. NextHome Signature Real Estate’s office is located at 101 S. 108th Ave., STE 10. For more information, visit nexthomesre.com or give the NextHome team a call at (402) 445-4899.
Viamedia Launches Cross-Media Platform, Upgrades to XMetrics™ Dashboard Pictured (L - R): Membership and Marketing Coordinator Brandy Nielson, Nebraska Restaurant Association; Assistant Food and Beverage Director Jaki Zahourek and Chef Sarah Anderson, the Ashland Country Club; President Darin Uhlir and Executive Director Al Juhnke, Nebraska Pork Producers Association.
Chefs from 27 popular area restaurants will offer up their creative bacon-inspired samples of everything from sweet to savory—and about everything in between. Participating vendors include: 9 South Char Grill, Brewsky’s, Cappy’s Hot Spot Bar and Grill, HiWay Diner,The Single Barrel/Mulberry BBQ, Cactus Modern Mexican Cuisine, HopCat, McKinney’s Irish Pub, David City Golf Course, The Eatery, Ashland Country Club, Rodizio Grill, Lazlo’s Brewery & Grill/Fireworks, Hillcrest Country Club, Hurts Donut, Screamers Dining & Cabaret, Billy’s Restaurant, Super Saver, Smoking Gun Jerky, Hormel, Buzzard Billy’s, LeCupcake, Art & Soul, Papillion LaVista South ProStart, Cornhusker Hotel, Moka’s Kitchen Gourmet Popcorn, and Millertime Pub and Grill. BaconFest attendees will have the chance to vote on their favorite bacon dish. In 2018 the Ashland Country Club’s entrée earned first place (pictured). Star City BaconFest is sponsored again this year by the Nebraska Restaurant Association (NRA) and the Nebraska Pork Producers Association (NPPA). Proceeds go toward scholarships for culinary students in Nebraska. Hormel Foods is providing products for the chefs to use during Star City BaconFest 2019. For more information, visit starcitybaconfest.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
In September of 2018, Viamedia launched the Cross-Media Platform (CMP), an automated solution that streamlines Viamedia’s TV and digital advertising campaigns. The platform enables account executives to manage their pre-sale research, campaign orders, and post campaign analyses all in one interface that delivers superior performance, transparency, and control to its users while driving results for Viamedia clients. Within the first three months of its launch, Viamedia has already seen an increase in campaign performance and customer and employee satisfaction. Also in last year’s fourth quarter, Viamedia launched upgrades to the XMetrics™ Dashboard, a Cross-Media Reporting Dashboard that offers its customers’ transparent campaign analysis on-demand. The Dashboard allows customers to take a deep dive into all of their media campaigns to see which strategies are generating opportunities and which need to be tweaked. Upgraded reporting functionality was added for overall KPI performance insights and additional report templates were developed to help Viamedia’s clients keep track of how their cable TV and digital campaigns are working together. This year, Viamedia continues to focus on adding new cutting-edge products for its advertising clients. Since January, the company has added eight products to its client ad offerings: OTT, Cross Connect (Authenticated IP Targeting), Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, SEO, mobile “Tap to Expand,” and full-service email marketing. With Viamedia’s Cross Connect and OTT product, the company is now able to offer TV and digital advertising in any state, DMA, county, or zip code in the country. Learn more about Viamedia online at www.viamediatv.com, or contact Local Sales Manager Bill Dietz at (402) 427-3450 / bdietz@ viamediatv.com. MARCH 2019 Strictly Business 13
BUSINESS NEWS Sarpy County EDC Celebrates Another Strong Year of Growth
Greater Omaha Chamber Presents Propel Leadership Series
Approximately 260 people attended the Sarpy County Economic Development Corporation’s (EDC) Annual Meeting on February 7 at the Beardmore Event Center of Bellevue. In addition to highlighting economic indicators and development activity across the county, Sarpy County EDC announced six landed projects in 2018. Those projects total more than $1.2 billion in capital investment and 365 new and retained jobs.
The Greater Omaha Chamber is excited to present Propel, a new leadership accelerator for front-line leaders and rising stars. Designed by local business, MindSet, small groups of eight to 12 members will meet over the course of seven half-day sessions to build the skills necessary to lead, including: communication, goalsetting, and dealing with problem employees. Propel attendance is by application only and space is limited. Deadline to apply is April 1.
Landed projects include an expansion of the Facebook data center campus (1.6 million ft.2 ) in Papillion, a warehouse storage facility (60,000 ft.2)in Papillion, Malloy Electric (35,000 ft.2) in La Vista, Sustainable Mechanical (5,000 ft.2) in La Vista, Merk building expansion (75,000 ft.2 in Papillion), and Omaha Box Company relocation (335,000 ft.2) in Papillion. Sarpy County EDC also presented several awards and recognitions at the meeting. Awards include: Partner in Economic Development Award – Mark Norman, senior director of client services for the Greater Omaha Chamber; Business Progress Award – Marathon Ventures, a full-service food and beverage processing/manufacturing, packaging, and marketing company located in Bellevue. Sarpy County Economic Development Corporation is a proud partner of the Greater Omaha Economic Development Partnership. Inquires can be directed to Andrew Rainbolt, executive director, at (402) 233-7155 / arainbolt@selectgreateromaha.com. More information about Sarpy County EDC can be found online at www.omahachamber.org/economicdevelopment/sarpy-county-economic-development-corporation.
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Cost to participate is $2,950 per attendee. There is a $250 discount for Omaha Chamber members and an additional bulk discount of $200 with the purchase of three or more seats. Groups will be assigned in early March and the final schedule will be set in April. For complete program information and to apply, visit GoMindSet. com/Propel. The Greater Omaha Chamber’s mission is to champion a thriving business community and a prosperous region through visionary leadership and collaboration, such as the Propel Leadership Series. To learn more about the Chamber and how to become a member, visit their website at www.omahachamber.org or give them a call at (402) 346-5000. Lindsay Christiansen is the Propel event contact at the chamber.
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BUSINESS NEWS Metro Omaha Builders Association Sponsors Omaha Home Show March 8–10
Business4Business Announces Jams Legacy Sneak Peek Event
The Metro Omaha Builders Association (MOBA) will be sponsoring the annual Omaha Home Show on March 8–10. The home show will take place at the CHI Health Center and run from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.
Join Business4Business (B4B) Professional Society for their Jams Sneak Peak event on April 11 from 4 to 6:30 p.m. This is an opportunity to network with other business professionals, community leaders, and influencers, while getting an exclusive look at the all new Jams. Cost to attend is $15. Space is limited, pre registration is required.
The Omaha Home Show has everything that you could imagine for your home. Meet the professionals in new home building, home improvement, landscaping, decorating, smart energy, and more. Find fresh ideas, innovative products, practical advice, and great deals from hundreds of experts all under one roof. From windows and flooring to outdoor furniture and gardening. Some of the attractions include: Pet Lovers Lane, Ask the Master Gardener, Cooking with Craft Beer, Kidz Zone, and more! Cost is $9 for adults (13+); $7 for seniors (65+), kids (7–12 years), and anyone showing a military ID; and children (6 and under) are free. The Metro Omaha Builders Association (MOBA.com) strives to be the primary source for answers to residential construction issues, focusing on EPA issues, Contractor Licensing and its required testing, and continuing education. To view the vendor list and learn more about the Omaha Home Show, visit the Facebook page (@OmahaHomeShowOWH) or contact (402) 444-1263 / omahahomeshow@owh.com. Feel free to contact MOBA with additional questions by calling (402) 408-0405.
Angels Among Us Moves Into New Office, Announces Grand Opening Date Angels Among Us has a new office space in the Ronald McDonald House, located at 620 S. 38th Ave., in Omaha. Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 11 and join Angels Among Us for the community-wide grand opening celebration of the new space. The non-profit’s new home includes adequate office space for their growing organization, as well as a fun KidZone where the kiddos can play and forget about life for a while. The KidZone even has a custom-made, giant Light Peg Board for kids to create their own special art project! The new space also includes a conference room where the Angels Among Us staff can work with families to complete applications and receive support. It will also allow for some new programming, designed to help families become more financially stable during their journey. Angels Among Us is grateful to all who contributed to make their new home a reality. A special thanks to All Makes Office Equipment Co. for the wonderful new furniture, Jerry Slusky and the Commercial Real Estate Summit for the generous contributions toward the fundraising goal, and to an anonymous benefactor for investing in the KidZone. Angels Among Us is a Nebraska non-profit that provides financial and emotional support to families whose children are battling pediatric cancer. Any family living in or being treated in Nebraska is eligible to apply for financial support. In 2018, Angels Among Us provided financial support to 99 families, giving over $355,000, so they were able to remain stable during their pediatric cancer journey. Please contact Alyssa Theilen, director of community relations/development, at (402) 934-0999 / alyssa@ myangelsamongus.org for any further questions, or visit www. MyAngelsAmongUs.org to learn more. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
This is Jams’ third location, and it is going into the ground floor of the old Upstream West (171st and W. Center Road), opening late spring. As the newest addition to West Omaha from Cutchall Management Group, this Jams will take up 6,500 square feet, making it the largest Jams location in Omaha. It will seat more than 220 inside and have additional seating for 50 to 60 on two outdoor patios. Business4Business Professional Society is an engaged and effective community of leaders and professionals who commit to empower, serve, and develop one another while giving back to the community. B4B focuses on bringing motivated people together and providing resources that create lasting relationships, insights, and experiences. They aim to offer ideas and inspiration that help push ourselves further and strive for greater and more meaningful accomplishments. Tapping into the potential of our community and its people, B4B creates experiences throughout the year that are unique, impactful, empowering, and exciting. Tickets to the Jams Sneak Peek event can be found on Eventbrite. For more information about Business4Business Professional Society, please visit their website at www.b4bsociety.com.
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BUSINESS NEWS Lukas Partners Earns 23 Awards at 2018 PRSA Nebraska Paper Anvil Awards Gala
Headliner Announced for 2019 Nebraska Science Festival
Omaha public relations firm Lukas Partners earned 23 awards during the recent 2018 PRSA Nebraska Paper Anvil Awards Gala on January 23. Lukas Partners claimed Awards of Excellence and Awards of Merit for client work with AIM Institute, FNTS, Gordmans, Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska, Nelson Mandela School, Nonprofit Association of the Midlands, Outlook Nebraska, Scooter’s Coffee, and Wounded Warriors Family Support.
The 2019 Nebraska Science Festival, which will take place from April 5 to April 28, will be headlined by Grant Imahara. A recognized electronics and robots expert from Discovery Channel’s Mythbusters, Grant Imahara has worked on some of the most famous movie and TV robots of all time, including R2-D2 and the Energizer Bunny. Imahara’s presentation, to be held at Joslyn Museum’s Witherspoon Concert Hall in Omaha on April 5 at 7:30 p.m., is free to the public (but requires a reserved ticket) and is suitable for all ages. Tickets for the general admission seating will be released online at Eventbrite (four per person) at noon on March 2 on a first-come, first-served basis.
A special moment occurred when Lukas Partners president and owner Joan Lukas was recognized as PRSA Nebraska Professional of the Year for her outstanding career accomplishments and service to the public relations profession. This annual award is presented to the professional whose accomplishments represent the best in public relations in Nebraska. Since 2005, Lukas has served as president and co-owner of Lukas Partners. She brings passion and energy to each client challenge and opportunity, while staying on the leading edge of communication techniques and methodologies. Lukas Partners is the region’s largest and most experienced full-service public relations and fund development firm. With the right message to the right people at the right time, their clients’ audiences become advocates, giving third-party credibility to these organizations. Since 1973, Lukas Partners’ award-winning PR and fund development experts will partner with you to get results. Learn more online at www.lukaspartners.com or call (402) 895-2552.
The Nebraska Science Festival brings people across Nebraska together to celebrate science. The 2018 festival had over 30,000 attendees, who engaged in a variety of events spanning from Omaha to Scottsbluff and everywhere in between. This year, there are 67 participating sites throughout the state. The mission of the Nebraska Science Festival is to stimulate curiosity and excite the minds of children and adults by engaging them in the amazing world of science. The festival began in 2013 as an initiative of the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), which continues to administer the festival with the assistance of a number of organizations and individuals. For a schedule of events and more information on tickets, visit www.nescifest.com. Questions can be sent to nescifest@gmail.com.
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BUSINESS NEWS Premier Claims to Host Ribbon Cutting and Watch Party for Charity March 22
Real Property Management Legacy Team Attends Annual Franchise Conference
Join Premier Claims as they team up with the Greater Omaha Chamber and the West Omaha Chamber to host a ribbon cutting and NCAA tournament watch party at their new office on Friday, March 22. Premier Claims is now located at 120 Regency Parkway, STE 115. The event will run from 1 to 7 p.m. and there will be food, drinks, entertainment, and, most importantly, every tournament game will be streamed live!
Each year, the Real Property Management family comes together for an annual conference. Omaha franchise owner and president, Jean Duffy, along with Real Estate Broker Carmela Kramer Karni, represented Real Property Management Legacy (RPM Legacy) at the Annual Franchise Conference on February 18–20. The conference was held in Salt Lake City, where the Real Property Management Franchise Support Center is located.
Attendees are encouraged to purchase a bracket beforehand for a chance to win money and prizes. All proceeds and donations will go to support The Sonder Project, a non-profit that works to strengthen communities both locally and globally, specifically those that struggle with basic needs or have been impacted by natural disasters. Premier Claims is a fully licensed and bonded public adjusting firm based out of Omaha. Licensed through each individual state’s Department of Insurance, they provide expert assistance to policyholders throughout the claim process. While enabling maximum financial compensation, they exceed the industry standards set by NAPIA (National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters).
The event was a chance for Duffy and Kramer to learn from other franchise owners and hear from insightful speakers about industry, marketing, sales, and operational updates. In addition, they met suppliers and vendors, spent time with Advisory Council representatives, and enjoyed the annual Awards Banquet. Highlights of this year’s event included a presentation from Mike Bidwell and Mary Thompson with Neighborly. They shared the company’s vision and goals, and spoke about leadership. The keynote speaker was Chris Roberts from FranklinCovey.
To RSVP for the event, contact Elizabeth Goodrich at (402) 719-0717 / egoodrich@premier-claims.com. Inquiries for purchasing brackets can be directed to Gil Shalmon, (847) 525-1295 / gshalmon@ premier-claims.com. For more information about Premier Claims, visit their website at premier-claims.com.
The Annual Franchise Conference is the one event each year that brings the entire Real Property Management family together to share goals, best practices, and camaraderie. The RPM Legacy team in Omaha feels it’s important to take advantage of training opportunities that result in higher motivation and stronger connections with peers.
Empowerment Network Presents Step-Up Omaha!, Application Deadline March 10 The Empowerment Network and the City of Omaha, in collaboration with community partners, are excited to present their annual Step-Up Omaha! program, which was created in order to provide opportunities for youth and young adults with valuable job training and work experience during the summer. The nine-week program, June 3–August 2, will incorporate career exploration, life skills training, hands-on learning opportunities and community service. Participants could earn up to $2,000 this summer through Step-Up Omaha! In 2019, the Empowerment Network would like to build on the program’s successes and connect 900 youth and young adults, ages 14–21, with a career this summer and beyond. During the program, the 14 and 15-year-olds will participate in career exploration and professional development opportunities. Individuals ages 16–21 will be assigned to a worksite after completing a two-week orientation. Participating employers over the past 11 years have included non-profits, educational institutions, governmental agencies, and for-profit businesses. Due to the demand for summer employment, placement in the program cannot be guaranteed. There are multiple ways the business community in Omaha can invest in this enriching program. Employers can hire participants and provide a high-quality work experience. The work can be subsidized or partially subsidized. Otherwise, anyone is welcome to sponsor participants financially while they work on a separate site. Any financial contribution made to support the initiative is greatly appreciated. Employers interested in worksite opportunities should contact Moniki Cannon at (402) 502-5153. Anyone needing assistance completing the application should call (402) 502-3763. Summer applications close at midnight on March 10. Visit www.stepupomaha.com to apply! #PrintProudDigitalSmart
To learn more about RPM Legacy, located at 14245 S St., visit www. realpmlegacy.com or contact (402) 905-0459 / info@RealPMLegacy. com. Information can also found on their Facebook (@Realpmlegacy).
Alamo Drafthouse Opens Second Location in Midtown Crossing Following a year of development, Alamo Drafthouse Midtown opened its doors on March 1, kicking off a week-long “soft” opening that’ll run till the official Grand Opening on Thursday, March 7. Tickets for the opening slate of programming, which includes screenings of Avengers: Infinity War, Mission: Impossible – Fallout, and The Favourite, are on sale at drafthouse.com/omaha. Located in the Midtown Crossing development, the Austin-based cinema’s second location in Omaha features a mix of first-run films and curated specialty programming, premium luxury reclining seats, and a full-service food and drink menu. Alamo Drafthouse Midtown is also home to the second Liquid Sunshine Taproom location, a full bar, and restaurant space located on the second floor of the Alamo Drafthouse Midtown building. Liquid Sunshine Taproom offers 24 beer taps, eight of which will be rotating with local and regional brews. Alamo Drafthouse Midtown features five state-of-the-art auditoriums that range in size from 66 seats to 182 seats, with combined seating for 599 moviegoers. Each theater boasts the top-of-the-line in Sony 4K digital cinema technology and digital sound. As part of Alamo Drafthouse’s dedication to community partnerships, guests during the opening phase can also add a monetary donation to their online ticket purchases. All funds collected will be donated to the Omaha Public Library Foundation, which partners with Alamo Drafthouse Omaha on the Novel Pictures programming series. Guests at Alamo Drafthouse Midtown will enjoy the company’s trademark mix of one-of-a-kind special events, family-friendly programming, and the best of Hollywood and independent cinema. Learn more online at drafthouse.com or call (402) 884-8999. MARCH 2019 Strictly Business 17
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Meet Elena O’Connell-Centamore, medical social worker at Home Nursing With Heart. Tell us a little about your business. - Home Nursing With Heart is a Home Healthcare company that provides in-home services for our patients, including skilled nursing; physical, occupational, speech, and respiratory therapy; and social work. My role involves helping patients navigate the vast healthcare system, providing them with emotional support and counseling as they adjust to their illness or disease, and helping them and their families get connected to community resources and support. How did you get started in the business? - I spent six years working for Heartland Family Service Therapeutic School, where I was exposed to the amazing work of social workers. I did my graduate studies at the UNO Grace Abbot School of Social Work, during which I did a practicum at Nebraska Medicine and fell in love with medical social work. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Navigating larger, complex systems in order to advocate for our clients can be overwhelming when the resources aren’t there, or your client faces a number of barriers to accessing them. I’ve also had to find effective ways to practice self-care, as the work I do can be very challenging, mentally and emotionally. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Earning a master’s degree while being pregnant and raising small children was a daunting task, but I did it! I have been very fortunate to have a great support system. Tell us a little about your family. - My husband Frank is a chef at a local country club. We have a four-year-old son, and an almost twoyear-old daughter. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Working in the healthcare system has exposed me to the macro level problems so many in our country face, such as accessing affordable healthcare and resources. This has made me passionate about addressing micro level issues for my patients, advocating for policy change at the state level, and finding a way to address the inequities Who inspires you? - My mother. She is a local artist and printmaker with national recognition for her work, and an amazing mother and grandmother to my children. She and my dad have shown me unconditional love and support throughout my life and are a huge part of my professional success. Which talent would you most like to have? - More artistic talent…I enjoy crafting, but did not get the artist gene from my mother. What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I work closely with the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging. They provide valuable resources that make a tangible and positive difference in elderly people’s lives, including Meals on Wheels, care management, and respite care. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver. What is your favorite movie? - The Wizard of Oz, especially now that I can share it with my children. What is your favorite local restaurant? - El Basha. I love middle eastern food. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Jane Addams, the “mother” of American social work and founder of Hull House. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Office phone number: (402) 614-4622; Email: eoconnell@ nursingwithheart.com. Website: homenursingwithheart.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
ROBBIE
LEGACY
Robbie Nathan
BRIDGE TO BETTER LIVING Meet Robbie Nathan, transition consultant at Bridge to Better Living. Tell us a little about your business. - Bridge to Better Living (BBL) helps seniors and families research and find the best retirement living options. I meet with clients to learn their social interests, medical needs, physical conditions, and financial status. This information is used to develop a plan with them to visit communities in the Omaha area that meets the client’s wishes and needs. A transition consultant (like me) accompanies the client on community tours and is available for any questions or feedback. If a client needs transportation, we are able to provide it in a BBL vehicle. This provides more time to know each other better as insights and histories are shared. Plus, there is no cost to the client or family for these services. How awesome is that! How did you get started in the business? - I have worked in the Omaha retirement industry for many years. The owner of BBL, Mary Ann Stallings, and I met several years ago when she was giving a client a tour at a retirement community where I was working. I recognized the value of her approach with seniors and the communities immediately. This year, I reached out to her and, luckily, she had an opening. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Leaving my comfort zone. Cold calls were difficult to learn, but now I love them. I look forward to meeting the person who is behind the “door” and needing my assistance. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - In past sales positions, I achieved the President’s Club Status. This award honored my ability to fill a community by building trusted and long-lasting relationships with future residents. Tell us a little about your family. - I have a daughter, son-in-law, and grand-dog in Omaha, all of whom I adore. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Being a single mother. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I saved a child who was drowning. Who inspires you? - My daughter. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - There is a quote I love from Maya Angelou: “Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.” If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Compassionate. What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - I think I do use my greatest talent…listening. What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - The Alzheimer’s Association. My mother had this disease and I have experienced firsthand how hard it is to see a family member suffer from Alzheimer’s and how the entire family is affected. What is your favorite TV show? - The Office. What is your favorite local restaurant? - Gorat’s Steakhouse. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - I would like to have dinner with my parents. They died very young, so when I work with seniors and listen to their life histories, it makes me wonder what stories my parents would have shared with me. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Phone: (402) 802-3301; Email: mary@bridgetobetterliving.com; Website: www.BridgetoBetterLiving.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
RPM Legacy is new to the Omaha Metro Area. We specialize in residential property management and402.991.9200 offer buying and selling real estate services. • Manage single family homes and residences • with up to 10 units • Help rental owners maximize revenue, • minimize expense, and avoid costly mistakes • Provide top notch customer service /TheOmahaBakery 608 S. 72nd St. • Omaha, NE • Offer 24/7 maintenance support • Use cutting edge technology to market, • communicate, and maintain properties
LEGACY RPM Legacy is new to the Omaha Metro RPM Legacy isArea. a fullWe realspecialize estate brokerage firm in Nebraska and in residential Iowa managing, buying, selling and improving investments. property management and offer buying andand selling real estate services. Jean James Duffy, Owners
Carmela K. homes Karni, • Manage single family residences @RealPMLegacy E: info@realpmlegacy.com | andBroker • with up to 10 units
402.905.0459 | www.RealPMLegacy.com • Help rental owners maximize revenue, • minimize expense, and avoid costly mistakes • Provide top notch customer service • Offer 24/7 maintenance support • Use cutting edge technology to market, • communicate, and maintain properties
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MARCH 2019 Strictly Business 19_POG10_STRICTLYBUSINESS_MAR_TIRESWING_AD.indd 1
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Meet Lori Sorensen, vice president and coowner of FireGuard Inc. Tell us a little about your business. FireGuard is a local family-owned company that eliminates the need to contact multiple companies by offering complete life safety solutions. We design, sell, install, inspect, and service all types of fire protection and life safety equipment. One Call. One Source. How did you get started in the business? - Bob Sorensen and I are the owners of FireGuard, which opened in 1994. It has been (and still is) my privilege to work alongside family members in our day-to-day operations. FireGuard started out installing and servicing fire alarm systems, fire extinguishers, and kitchen suppression systems, along with sales of fire department equipment including ambulances and fire trucks for municipality and volunteer fire departments. In 2016, we decided to part ways with the fire department equipment division of the company to allow FireGuard to focus on our core business. FireGuard is committed to the highest standards of quality in the products we sell and the services we provide, while keeping excellence in customer service the top priority. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Being a family-owned business, it is often challenging to turn off work conversations when outside of the office. We are just so passionate about what we do! What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I am very proud of the “family” culture we have worked so hard to build. FireGuard’s success is a direct result of our exemplary employees working hard and supporting each other each and every day to provide priceless protection within our community. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - In a world where you can be anything, be kind. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - To heal. There are some special people in my life who have been diagnosed with illnesses this year, which has broken my heart to see. If only I could wave my magic wand. What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Project Harmony. They do so much for children; it is truly an amazing facility. I recommend everyone to go visit and see first-hand all of the wonderful services they provide. Additionally, I am passionate about the Papillion Volunteer Fire Department. My dad was on the fire department for many years, so it’s dear to my heart. We no longer make calls, but we do provide the community with AEDs, along with various other fundraising opportunities and community outreach. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate. I gravitate toward anything related to historical fiction. What is your favorite local restaurant? - Blue Sushi. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I have a wonderful group of friends who I have known for many years. We often get together for dinners, volunteering, shopping, etc. If you could choose another profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I was in nursing for 30 years. I absolutely loved everything about the profession and being able to connect with and help others in times of need. What is your favorite TV show? - I seem to enjoy any show that is on HGTV. Lots of inspiration for new projects! If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Phone: (402) 898-2225; Email: lori.sorensen@fireguardusa.com; Website: www.fireguardusa.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
JENNY
Jenny Leidy
NORTH RISK PARTNERS Meet Jenny Leidy, senior account manager of employee benefits at North Risk Partners. Tell us a little about your business. - When I first started at North Risk Partners 13 years ago, we were just a local group insurance brokerage of about eight people. Now we have over 250 employees in Minnesota, Iowa, and Nebraska. We are committed to helping clients face risk head-on with right-fit insurance coverage and attention to opportunities for preventing avoidable losses. For businesses, we provide solutions for group health, life, and disability insurance needs, as well as support to navigate all of the healthcare changes happening today. How did you get started in the business? - It was by accident really. I’ve worked for companies over the years doing different jobs in human resources and benefits administration. At one company in particular, I developed a friendship with our agent. When it came time for me to leave said company, she offered me a job. I’ve been on the broker side of the benefits business ever since. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Keeping up with all of the changes in health insurance over the past few years. It seems as though there’s something new every day. Tell us a little about your family. - I have two daughters who are the best things that have ever happened to me. One is getting ready to graduate from high school, and the other is following her dream of becoming a tattoo artist. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? Being diagnosed with breast cancer. It really makes you take a look at your life and re-evaluate your priorities. I’m a five-year cancer survivor! Who inspires you? - My daughters. It seems so hard to be a teenager these days. Having dealt with divorce at a young age and watching me battle cancer, they’ve both survived adversity with such grace and strength. I couldn’t be any prouder of each of them. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Supportive. What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - My baking skills, I think. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I would love to own a cupcake bakery. I love to bake for my family and friends. What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - The American Cancer Society. While cancer is hard for anyone, it’s especially hard for children who are diagnosed at such a young age and their parents who have to explain to them what is going on. What is your favorite movie? - I tried to decide which movie would be the most appropriate, but I’m just going to be honest and say Deadpool. I’ve never laughed so hard. That’s what I look for in a movie. What is your favorite TV show? - Outlander. What is your favorite local restaurant? - Hands down, Sakura Bana. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Although he is not famous, I would love to have dinner with my Grandpa Wayne. I was never able to meet him because he died from cancer at the age of 46, but the way my dad reminisces about him, I know he must have been a great man. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Phone: (402) 905-9065; Email: jenny.leidy@northriskpartners.com; Website: www.northriskpartners.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
Celebrate With A Cajun Flair! Acadian Grille, Omaha’s newest Cajun restaurant, is now offering catering options, which include: business lunches and other celebrations! Also, a party room will now be available every Sunday. Call ahead and book your next event today!
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CHRIS
Chris Langer
LANGER ELECTRIC Meet Chris Langer, owner of Langer Electric. Tell us a little about your business. - Langer Electric provides excellent and affordable electrical service to clients in Omaha and the surrounding area. We strive to have repeated good experiences with our customers. Many trade folks aren’t a treat to work with because they are there for the job and job alone. I want people to genuinely love the experience they share with us. We try to bring more of a family-feel to the job. How did you get started in the business? - Prior to Langer Electric, I worked for another company in the industry for ten years and went through an additional five-year apprenticeship. What has been your most important achievement professionally? Being able to pay off all of our equipment. We basically started from nothing, besides the skills I had acquired along the way. Tell us a little about your family. - My wife BreeAna and my son Easton are my rocks. Everything I do is for those two. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - I was in a severe car accident when I was 15. My friend was driving and we lost control at 105 mph. We flipped into a creek and the car blew up. I was dragged out of the vehicle by my friend and our other friend was ejected. A person starts to feel more grateful for everything around them after something like this happens. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Relax with my wife and son and watch Netflix. We are 100% homebodies. Who inspires you? - Kerwin Rae. If you don’t know who he is, you should look him up. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Don’t be afraid to take a chance because even if you fail, you’ll still learn something from it. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Generous. If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “And We Danced” by Macklemore x Ryan Lewis. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Eat whatever I want and not gain any weight. What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - I don’t use it on a daily basis because I’m always running around, but the ability to make others laugh. Life is short and I love seeing people happy. Which talent would you most like to have? - Be able to play basketball. I...am...horrible... If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Robotic engineering. I’ve always been amazed by that stuff. What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I try to donate as much as I can to our police department (and everyone in blue). They have our backs on a day-to-day basis, and that is important to support. What is your favorite movie? - The Mask. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. I would love to talk to him about his journey from nothing to something. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Our Facebook is the easiest way to get ahold of me (@LangerElectricCo). Phone: (402) 215-1914; Email: langerelectricco@hotmail.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
LISA
Lisa Jensen
CREATIVE HAIR DESIGN SALON & SPA Meet Lisa Jensen, salon manager for Creative Hair Design Salon & Spa. Tell us a little about your business. - Creative Hair Design started in a little 1,200-square-foot space and has grown into a luxurious 16,000-square-foot salon and spa. It’s a place where you can indulge in lavish services, as well as enjoy the necessities. Our handpicked team of specialists continuously update their artistic and technical skills with the latest knowledge in their individual fields of expertise. How did you get started in the business? - I worked at a Trade Secret in the mall when I was 19 years old, selling professional salon products and supporting a couple of service providers. I saw a little ad in the paper for a receptionist position and applied. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - We have grown to over 90 employees in one location. To keep an operation of this size in full swing every day, I have to make sure everyone has what they need, service providers and guests alike. Whether it’s products, services, experience, or scheduling—I try to stay on top of it all. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I grew in the business, from being a part-time receptionist to spa coordinator, then from wedding coordinator to salon manager. I would say my biggest achievement throughout it all has been earning the trust of my coworkers! Tell us a little about your family. - I have three children. My oldest daughter Brooke is now 23 (she was six months old when I started at the salon). She played soccer in college and completed her bachelor’s degree in psychology. My son Cole is a senior in high school. He’ll be attending Xavier University in the fall to play soccer and study physical therapy. My youngest daughter Hope is a sophomore in high school and plays soccer as well. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I enjoy going to my kids’ sporting events, going to the gym, and having a drink with friends. Who inspires you? - Relationships inspire me. I love learning what makes people tick and hearing their stories. John Mangiameli, owner of Creative Hair Design, also inspires me. He encourages me to be better today than I was yesterday, to not let things get to me, and to keep my head up and keep moving forward. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “You are always one choice away from changing your life... choose wisely.” If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Helpful. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Motivational speaker or life coach. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - Girl, Wash your Face by Rachel Hollis. I love the message! What is your favorite movie? - Pretty Woman. What is your favorite TV show? - Scandal. What is your favorite local restaurant? - Jaipur Brewing Company. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Anthony Robbins. I would totally sponge everything he said. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? Phone: (402) 330-5660; Email: lisa@creativehairdesign.com; Website: www.creativehairdesign.com. Stop by the salon, located at 12025 Pacific St., to say hi and check out our awesome space! #PrintProudDigitalSmart
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MARCH 2019 Strictly Business
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PERSONNEL NEWS Kirsten Case Named Board Chair of Omaha Home for Boys
Evan Bisson Joins Farm Bureau Financial Services as Wealth Management Advisor
Omaha Home for Boys is honored to announce that longtime board member Kirsten Case has been appointed board chair of the Omaha Home for Boys’ Board of Directors. Case is the community liaison at the UNO Service Learning Academy and has more than 20 years of non-profit experience in direct service and administration. Prior to her appointment as board chair, Case served as vice chair of the Omaha Home for Boys’ Board of Directors and served on several of the board’s committees. Case was formerly the executive director of the Literacy Center and the chief service officer at the City of Omaha. She is also a founding member and director of the Greater Omaha Young Professionals at the Greater Omaha Chamber. “I am honored to serve as the board chair for an organization with such a rich history of helping youth and families in the Omaha community,” said Case. “I look forward to leading the Home, alongside fellow leadership and board members, as the Home continues to adapt and grow to meet the ever-changing needs of young adults and families in the state.” Case’s appointment as board chair marks the first time in Omaha Home for Boys’ nearly 100 year history that a female has held the position. Joining Case on the Executive Committee of Omaha Home for Boys’ Board of Directors are: Allen Straub, vice chair; James Kelley, treasurer; Victor Baez, secretary; Aileen Warren, community director; and Randy Behounek, community director. For more information about Omaha Home for Boys, please visit www. OmahaHomeForBoys.org or call (402) 457-7000 .
Farm Bureau Financial Services is pleased to announce Evan Bisson has joined its wealth management practice in Omaha. As a wealth management advisor, Bisson will help Farm Bureau client/members prepare for the future and protect what matters by providing financial planning, advisory services, and investment solutions to families, individuals, and businesses. He will use Farm Bureau’s Your Future Advantage process to guide client/members through the steps to create customized plans to achieve both short- and long-term financial goals.
BNI Recognizes Member of the Year, Chapter Successes in Omaha BNI Heartland, the Heartland’s leading referral organization, is pleased to announce Erol Kinkaid was named “Regional Member of the Year” for the second year in a row at the Omaha Area BNI Regional Business Awards on February 11. Erol was recognized for his accomplishments among the hundreds of BNI members, which include entrepreneurs, small business owners, and business leaders in the Omaha area. Erol is a vice president, commercial lending officer with Equitable Bank. Vince Vigneri, BNI Heartland’s executive director, said, “Kinkaid exemplified the Core Values of BNI®, with Givers Gain® being the foundation of his success.” This annual event also highlighted chapter achievements. The following Omaha-area chapters were acknowledged for their accomplishments: Most Referrals Per Member (56.17) - BNI Happy, Hour and a Half Chapter; Most One-to-Ones Per Member (50.89) - BNI Multiply Your Profits Chapter; Most Visitors Per Member (3.24) - BNI Built 4 Business Chapter; Most Chapter Education Units Per Member (54.53) - BNI Built 4 Business Chapter; Most Thank You For Closed Business Per Member ($109,563) - BNI Multiply Your Profits Chapter. BNI® is the world’s leading referral organization, with over 245,000 members in 70+ countries. Its members generate word-of-mouth business for each other through structured, results-driven groups around the world. In 2018 alone, BNI members generated over $15 billion (USD) in revenue for member-businesses. For more information, visit bniheartland.com or contact (402) 880-6311 / info@bniheartland.com. 24 Strictly Business MARCH 2019
Bisson has 14 years of experience in wealth management and financial advisory services. His office is located at 16016 Evans St., STE 109. Bisson is an active member of his church and several other charitable organizations. When not helping client/members secure their financial futures, he can be found golfing or camping and fishing with family and friends. Farm Bureau Financial Services is a brand representing the companies of FBL Financial Group, Inc. (NYSE: FFG). Learn more about us at FBFS. com or call (402) 861-4348.
Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital Auxiliary Inducts New Officers On January 7, the Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital Auxiliary inducted new officers to serve on the 2019-20 Hospital Auxiliary Board. Outgoing Auxiliary president, Bev DeVault, inducted Peggy Christ as Auxiliary president; Roger Williams, vice president of front line services; Susan Holly, vice president of Pictured L-R: Peggy Christ, Roger Williams, fundraising; and Claudia Susan Holly, and Claudia Schafer. Schafer, vice president of youth services. Newly-elected officers not present for the January meeting included Marilyn Newland, vice president of administrative services; Kathy Halverson-Rigatuso, vice president of patient services; and Mike Skipton, vice president of public relations and president elect. Outgoing officers who served from 2017 to 2018 include Bev DeVault, president; Sherry Fauble, vice president patient services; and Connie Bellows, vice president administrative services. The Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital Auxiliary sincerely thanks and congratulates all these individuals. They also extend their appreciation to outgoing officers for giving their time and talents while they served in their positions over the last two years. The year ahead will be a very exciting time with many wonderful projects and experiences. It is through these officers’ dedication to their roles and work with all of the volunteers that Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital Auxiliary is able to do so much. Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital’s mission is to build a bridge between the community and the hospital to enhance the resources that support Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital in meeting the health care needs of the community. For more information, please contact the Jennie Edmundson Foundation at (712) 396-6040 or go online to www.jehfoundation.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
PERSONNEL NEWS North Risk Partners – Bearence Division Adds Shelly Maynard as Account Manager
Dreamweaver Foundation Welcomes New Board Member Glenn Van Ekeren
North Risk Partners – Bearence Division is excited to welcome Shelly Maynard as account manager. Maynard comes with 13 years of customer service and insurance experience. In her new role, Maynard will help the company to continue differentiating the value of their products and services in a competitive marketplace by ensuring businesses and individuals have access to the most strategic insurance solutions.
Dreamweaver Foundation is thrilled to have Glenn Van Ekeren join their Board of Directors. For over 40 years, Glenn has dedicated his work to helping people grow. As the president of Vetter Health Services in Omaha, he is passionate about inspiring team members to do what they do unlike anyone else in the industry, changing the perception of long-term care. As an author and motivational speaker, Glenn has shared multiple books, seminars, and keynote speeches on how individuals and organizations can pursue their potential. His down-to-earth approach and practical strategies have inspired others to enthusiastically live life to the fullest.
North Risk Partners is committed to helping clients face risk head-on with right-fit insurance coverage and attention to opportunities for preventing avoidable losses. For businesses, they offer programming and compliance support in the areas of HR, safety, worksite wellness, and more. Please join North Risk Partners in welcoming Shelly Maynard to the team. She can be reached directly at Shelly.Maynard@ northriskparthers.com, or feel free to learn more about North Risk by going online to northriskpartners.com.
American National Bank Welcomes Melissa Okerlund and Laura Millage American National Bank is pleased to announce the addition of Melissa Okerlund and Laura Millage to the American National Bank team as vice presidents of treasury management. Okerlund has more than 22 years of experience in the financial industry, focusing on the collection, handling, and practice of cash management. She is a dedicated professional who delivers customized financial solutions for her clients. Okerlund’s extensive product and industry knowledge, along with her superior customer service, offer a personalized approach to enhancing the client experience. Okerlund is also involved in the Omaha community with the Angels Among Us Guild, as well as being an active member of CREW Omaha Metro (Commercial Real Estate Women).
“I certainly believe that it is never too late to dream, so I am excited to be part of the Dreamweaver Foundation’s mission to fulfill lifelong dreams for terminally ill seniors in need. What a wonderful way to bring a little burst of joy into someone’s life,” comments Glenn. “As we strive to be a blessing in our seniors’ lives, I’m convinced our lives will be blessed as well.” Dreamweaver Foundation brings together generous donors, loving volunteers, and terminally ill seniors with unfulfilled end-of-life dreams. If you would like to learn more about Dreamweaver, please visit www. dreamweaver.org or call (402) 697-5471.
Kicks for a Cure Announces Brenda Christensen as New Executive Director
Melissa Okerlund
Millage joins American National Bank with over 19 years of industry knowledge. Her experience will enhance the bank’s team of specialists, focused on helping businesses maximize earnings and efficiencies. Millage Laura Millage has a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Iowa State University. She currently serves as the board secretary of Nebraska Association of Financial Professionals and is also a Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska troop leader. American National Bank is the second largest locally-owned bank based on deposits in the Omaha/Council Bluffs market area. With $3.8 billion in assets and greater than 570 employees, it operates 30 full-service offices in Nebraska and Iowa, and seven locations in Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN, operating under Western Bank, a Division of American National Bank. For more information, visit www.american.bank. To contact the bank, email CustomerService@anbank.com or call one of their 24-hour automated customer service lines: (402) 457-5465 / (800) 725-5465. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
Kicks for a Cure is proud to announce the hire of Brenda Christensen as executive director. Christensen is a native of Omaha and has over 30 years’ experience in the community. She has served on numerous nonprofit boards and volunteered for dozens of organizations. Christensen is active on the Millard School Foundation, The Hope Center for Kids, Junior League of Omaha, and Humanities Nebraska Board of Directors. “Our goal for Brenda as executive director is to organize our efforts and expand our reach within the community,” says Brian Leiferman, president of Kicks for a Cure. “We are confident that her expertise will assist with the success of our mission to raise awareness and funds in support of local cancer research at Creighton University Hereditary Cancer Center and The Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center at UNMC for the treatment and prevention of cancer, while promoting active, healthy lifestyles.” Kicks for a Cure Board of Directors members include: Kate Betsworth; Jeff Hoffman; Ashley Horgan; Chad Jessen; David Karnes; Rod Kestel, vice president; Teri Mercer; Brian Leiferman, president; Steve Lindsay, advisor; Kevin Quinn, treasurer; Natalie Simmonds, secretary; Tom Worthington, friends group president. In thirteen years, Kicks for a Cure has funded over $4 million in local cancer research. The 14th annual Kicks for a Cure event is being held April 12–13. Event chairs are Kate and Brian Brownrigg and Kate and Dan Parker. Honorary chairs for the event are Angie and Sean Quinn. For more information, visit www.kicksforacure.org or contact Brenda Christensen at brenda@kicksforacure.org / (402) 880-8153. MARCH 2019 Strictly Business 25
PERSONNEL NEWS NCBB President Ellen DiSalvo Retires Nebraska Community Blood Bank (NCBB) congratulates Ellen DiSalvo on her upcoming retirement on April 1, 2019 after many wonderful years of service to NCBB and the community. DiSalvo has almost 40 years of experience in hospital transfusion services and blood centers. “The last 15 years have been the highlight of my career,” DiSalvo said. “This team is truly one of a kind. Their dedication and passion for our mission has allowed us to grow and become the largest blood supplier in Nebraska—serving 19 medical facilities in Lincoln and Omaha. It has been an honor to work alongside those who make NCBB what it is today, including our staff, donors, and community supporters.” DiSalvo joined NCBB in 2004 as its first scientific director, to assist operations and implement a new blood bank computer system. In 2006, she became chief operating officer, overseeing blood collections, laboratory, and information services. After NCBB merged with Minnesota-based Memorial Blood Centers in 2012 to form Innovative Blood Resources (IBR), DiSalvo was named vice president of laboratory services. In 2013, she was named president of NCBB. Nebraska Community Blood Bank has been connecting people and saving lives for 50 years. NCBB relies on the local community to donate blood to help ensure a safe and stable blood supply is available to area hospitals and other partners. For more information, call 1-877-486-9414 or visit NCBB.org.
Eleven Twenty-Three Hires MJ Peters as Account Strategist and Producer For Eleven Twenty-Three, 2019 started off with an addition to the company roster. The Omaha agency added MJ Peters as account strategist and producer—a dual role that will strengthen both creative and account service within the firm. Peters will handle video producer duties for client projects, as well as creative trafficking, media assistance, digital analytics, and social media content generation. With her acting and production experience, Peters brings a unique skillset to the agency. She started as talent in the Omaha film circuit in 2010 before moving to Los Angeles in 2014 to pursue acting and production. A production assistant on numerous indie films, she found herself back in Omaha to further her career. In 2017, Peters worked mainly as a casting associate on projects that came to Omaha such as the feature film 12 Days of Giving, the Jack and Jack video album titled Gone, directed by Emil Nava, and the 2017 Cenex Gas Station Super Bowl Commercial. In 2018, Peters was a production supervisor on the movie production titled The Turkey Bowl, starring Ryan Hansen, Matt Jones, and Alan Ritchson. During the project, Peters had to quickly adjust from production assistance to coordinating a cast and crew of more than 150. With her multitasking abilities and on-set experience, Eleven Twenty-Three is excited to welcome Peters to the team. Established in 2013 by Shana Boyd and David Distefano, Eleven TwentyThree is a strategic creative and media planning agency in Omaha. Efficient, personable, and practical, they take a back-to-basics approach to advertising: come up with good creative that attracts the right customer, find the best media placement for the best price, and engage them with brands to create sales. For more information, visit www.11twentythree. com or call (402) 593-1123. 26 Strictly Business MARCH 2019
The Strawhecker Group Promotes Alexandra Bruening to Senior Director of Finance Omaha-based payments consultancy, The Strawhecker Group (TSG), is pleased to announce the promotion of Alexandra Bruening, CPA to senior director of finance. In addition, Bruening has been named to TSG’s Board of Directors. Since joining TSG, Bruening has worked diligently to manage the responsibilities of finance, operations, human resources, and legal as the firms’ CFO approached retirement at the end of 2018. Prior to TSG, Bruening led financial planning and analysis at Javlin Capital, a private equity firm with over $200 million in assets under management. She also worked as an audit manager at BKD LLP, a regional accounting firm. Bruening is a graduate of the University of Nebraska Omaha and a native of Omaha. The Strawhecker Group is a fast-growing analytics and consulting firm focused on the electronic payments industry. The company serves the entire payments ecosystem, from fintech startups to Fortune 500 companies. The firm provides its clients with advisory services, research, and analytics to help them plan and execute their strategic initiatives. For more information, please visit www.TheStrawGroup.com or call (402) 964-2617.
Truck Center Companies’ Trey Mytty Announced as Dealer of the Year Trey Mytty, CEO of Truck Center Companies (TCC), was announced as the 2019 American Truck Dealers (ATD) Dealer of the Year, at the ATD show in San Francisco the weekend of January 24–27. The honor is presented as a career achievement award that recognizes a commercial truck dealer for business performance, industry and civic leadership, and community service. Mytty was one of six finalists for the honor. Mytty began his career with Truck Center Companies (then known as Pictured: Trey Mytty with wife, Omaha Truck Center) in 1990 while in Jennifer, accepting the American high school. His first job responsibilities Truck Dealers Dealer of the entailed cleaning the shop and washing Year award in San Francisco. trucks. He attended the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) after high school graduating with a degree in business marketing. During his final semester at UNL, Mytty accepted a sales position with TCC in truck sales. In 2007, right before the economic downturn, Mytty leveraged a buyout of the dealership and faced a challenging economy. Despite this, TCC employment has grown 29% in Mytty’s first 10 years of ownership. Today, TCC has nearly 575 employees. Nearly 25% of TCC’s staff are military veterans or active in the Reserves or National Guard. Under Mytty’s guidance, Truck Center Companies has raised over $2.6 million for Make-A-Wish Nebraska by sponsoring an annual golf outing and other events with a goal of reaching $3 million in 2019. Truck Center Companies operates eight Freightliner dealerships throughout Nebraska, Kansas, and Iowa with its flagship store/ corporate headquarters based in Omaha. Learn more by calling (402) 582-2440 or visit truckcentercompanies.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
PERSONNEL NEWS Strictly Business Editor Hannah Hundley Celebrates 1-Year Anniversary Strictly Business editor, Hannah Hundley, is celebrating her one-year anniversary with the magazine. Hannah was brought on in February of 2018 as the executive assistant. Shortly after, Hannah stepped up into the editor role. She currently oversees all of the written content for the Omaha and Lincoln publications, which consists of press releases, monthly columns, client spotlights, River/Star City Six features, featured stories, and more. In addition, Hannah has recently begun to assist with sales efforts in the Omaha market. She is excited to form more connections with local professionals by scheduling meetings and being active in local organizations, such as Center Sphere, Greater Omaha Chamber, Sapry County Chamber, and the Millard Business Association. Hannah can be reached at the Strictly Business Magazine office at (402) 466-3330 or via email at editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com.
Cornhusker Bank Promotes Matthew Biggs, Matthew Brase, and Nicholas Schaffer Cornhusker Bank is excited to announce the promotions of Matthew Biggs to vice president/ relationship manager, Matthew Brase to vice president/financial operations officer, and Nicholas Schaffer to vice president/operations officer. Matt Biggs’ duties as a commercial relationship manager include development of new commercial business, the growth and expansion of existing business relationships, and ongoing service of customers. Matt has broad knowledge of commercial loan policies and procedures and the ability to provide financial consultation to customers to help them develop roadmaps to arrive at their goals. Matt Brase supports bank management and all departments with his extensive abilities in statistical analysis, identifying trends, solving issues, and developing forecasts in different areas of the bank. Matt completes required regulatory reports and supports the entire Financial Operations team, ensuring the accuracy of bank financial data. Nick Schaffer manages the Operations Center team and all tasks they complete in accordance with bank policies and applicable laws. His department is responsible for providing backroom technical support for the bank’s retail division in the areas of customer and account management, electronic funds transfer, and item processing. Nick’s detail oriented expertise and high level of confidentiality assure customer information and service are provided at the highest levels.
Maggie Weber Joins the Amplify Arts Team Amplify Arts is excited to welcome Maggie Weber to the position of development director. Weber has previously held positions at Benson Theatre and most recently at Montessori CoOp School. She brings a wealth of community organizing and development experience to the role. Weber is an artist herself, with a strong passion for supporting the local arts community. Weber is a muralist and community organizer. As a child, she attended summer art camp in her hometown Shenandoah, IA, along the Wabash Trace Nature Trail, which cultivated her love for art in the outdoors. She owns a small business, Magdalena Murals, and has created public art installations for the past 10 years. Weber is invested in the next generation of creatives and has collaborated with local organizations such as Project Everlast, The Kent Bellows Mentoring Program, and The Montessori Co-Op School to empower young people to pursue their passions. She received her B.A. in Studio Art and Art History from the University of Nebraska at Omaha in 2014. Weber is a Benson enthusiast and currently serves as vice president of the Benson Neighborhood Association and public art director for Benson First Friday. You can contact Maggie Weber by email at maggie@amplifyarts.org. Amplify Arts (formerly Omaha Creative Institute) is a 501c3 non-profit whose mission is to promote unity, innovation, and progress in the arts to build strong and vibrant communities. To learn more, please visit www. amplifyarts.org or call (402) 996-1092.
Re-Bath Congratulates 2018 Award Winners Gene Deters and Tom Christy Matthew Biggs
Matthew Brase
Nicholas Schaffer Cornhusker Bank remains the oldest locallyowned bank, demonstrating stability, soundness, and investing in the future growth of the community, its valued customers, and associates throughout its 115-year history. For more information, please visit www.CornhuskerBank.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
Re-Bath of the Heartland is proud to announce that two of their very own have received esteemed company-wide recognitions. Gene Deters was awarded the 2018 Design Consultant Award. Gene was nationally recognized for his attention to customer service, construction knowledge, and superior design skills. Gene has been designing with Re-Bath in Omaha for six years and has not only designed more Re-Bath bathrooms in Omaha than any other designer, but his custom bathroom designs have been featured in Gene Deters Re-Bath’s own nation-wide design magazine, Effortless. In addition, Tom Christy was awarded the 2018 Re-Bath Company-Wide Installer of the Year Award. Tom was presented this award for his attention to customer service, superior craftsmanship, and all-around hard-working attitude. Tom is the go-to guy for natural stone shower installations. He has installed about 70 bathrooms in 2018, totaling almost $1.1 million. His work has also been featured in Effortless. Tom Christy Re-Bath is not a “bathroom in a day” type of company. Instead, they work closely with homeowners to make the most of their spaces and offer them stress-free and economical remodeling options. Re-Bath’s design consultants help craft a design using their own exclusive DuraBath brand and other top manufacturers, while their professional technicians handle every aspect of the remodel. Check out the Omaha showroom at 4123 S. 84 St. to see all the functional design elements Re-Bath offers. More information can be found online at www. rebath.com, or contact the Re-Bath’s Omaha location at (402) 281-2333. MARCH 2019 Strictly Business 27
PERSONNEL NEWS Omaha Community Foundation Recognizes 13 for Completing CAP® Program
Berry Law Firm’s Hannah Carroll-Altman Admitted to the Kansas Bar
The Omaha Comm unity Foundation (OCF) recently recognized 13 local advisors for earning the professional Char tered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP®) designation. The graduate program is organized by and led by OCF board member Mark Weber, a principal of SilverStone Group, Inc. Through a year-long curriculum, the CAP® program provides professionals the knowledge, resources, and tools necessary to help clients reach their charitable giving objectives, while also covering estate planning and wealth management. Those completing this year’s program are: (pictured, front row L-R) Thomas Sudyka, Lawson Kroeker Investment Management; Kelli Watson, Fitzgerald, Schorr, Barmettler & Brennan, P.C., LLO; James Tews, Koley Jessen, P.C., LLO; Renee Coughlin, MOSAIC; Tom Kerfoot, Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Foundation; Amanda Forker, Pansing, Hogan, Ernst, and Bachman LLP; Shannon Sands, Omaha Community Foundation; (back row L-R) Megan McMurry, Bridges Trust; Mike McDevitt,BKD, LLP; Andrew Worthington, Frankel Zacharia, LLC; Ralph Dovali, Hancock & Dana, P.C.; Karen Hotz, Marian High School; Dan Kline, First National Bank Wealth Management. The Omaha Community Foundation lets good grow in Omaha by helping more than 1,500 donors facilitate their charitable giving. Learn more about OCF online at omahafoundation.org or call (402) 342-3458.
Berry Law Firm is proud to announce that attorney Hannah Carroll-Altman has been sworn into the Kansas State Bar and is now able to continue supporting her clients in both Nebraska and Kansas. Her oath was administered on December 19, 2018, by The Honorable John M. Gerrard, Chief United States District Judge of the United States District Court for the District of Nebraska. Upon taking the oath, she joined R. Joseph Pilgrim in representing Berry Law in the Kansas Bar. Carroll-Altman fights for the rights and liberty of individuals accused by the government and is excited to continue her representation of clients in Kansas. She practices criminal defense at both the state and federal levels, with a focus on sex crimes, drug crimes, DUI/DWI, criminal appeals, and post-conviction remedies. This achievement is the latest by Carroll-Altman in 2018, during which she also gained admission into the Nebraska State Bar and joined Berry Law Firm. She looks forward to the opportunity to work with individuals in Kansas facing criminal charges and is eager to help them find a positive resolution to their legal issues. Berry Law Firm continues to expand its legal services to clients throughout the Midwest and Great Plains regions. Carroll-Altman’s membership to the Kansas Bar will help Berry Law continue growth in Kansas, allowing the firm to serve new clients and offer additional services to existing clients. Learn more about Berry Law Firm online at jsberrylaw.com or call (402) 718-9985.
Steven Brewster Joins Nebraska Community Foundation as Fund Development Coordinator Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) proudly welcomes a new member to its growing team of community development professionals with a passion for the future of Greater Nebraska. Steven Brewster, an attorney associated with Krotter Law Group PC, LLO in O’Neill, has joined the NCF staff as affiliated fund development coordinator for north-central Nebraska. Brewster will provide training and technical assistance to affiliated funds and donors to meet increasing demand for NCF services throughout the region. Brewster will work with volunteer leaders to build community awareness, conduct successful fundraising efforts, and increase community impact through grantmaking and citizen engagement. Brewster’s extensive professional and volunteer experience includes leadership roles in social, economic, and ecological development programs in several U.S. and Canadian regions. NCF communities will benefit from his background as an attorney, business owner, non-profit executive, and his skills in creating high-impact educational programs. He is also a former chair of NCF’s Stuart Community Foundation Fund as well as a former NCF board member. Brewster received his Juris Doctorate from UNL College of Law and is a member in good standing in Nebraska, Massachusetts, Washington State, and Federal Bars, including the United States Supreme Court. Nebraska Community Foundation unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. For more information about its work in 250 communities across the state, visit NebraskaHometown.org or call (402) 323-7330. 28 Strictly Business MARCH 2019
FASTSIGNS® General Manager Mark Cullinane Receives National Recognition Mark Cullinane, general manager at FASTSIGNS® of Omaha located at 751 N. 114th St., received national recognition at the 2019 FASTSIGNS International Convention recently held in Orlando, FL. Cullinane received the Manager of the Year Award, which recognizes the top managers in the FASTSIGNS network—of over 700 locations in nine countries worldwide—based on Pictured: FASTSIGNS of Omaha’s level of responsibility, leadership, team Mark Cullinane received the development, and overall accountability Manager of the Year Award at the 2019 FASTSIGNS for profitable center operation. Convention presented by “Mark is always proactive with anything Catherine Monson (right), CEO of to do with our center, and change is FASTSIGNS International, Inc. good. He was responsible for taking our center paperless from day one in November of 2015,” said Bob Danielson, franchise owner at FASTSIGNS of Omaha. “He has implemented processes to improve our efficiency as well as sales goals for the center and each salesperson. Above all, he is a good person who knows how to get things done with his most important asset, our employees, who have 109 years total experience between them working at our center.” FASTSIGNS of Omaha has been providing signs, graphics, and visual marketing solutions in the area since 1989. Cullinane has been with the company for 20 years. He started in production before moving into a role in inside sales. From there he has gone on to work in outside sales and is now the manager at the center. To learn more, visit www.fastsigns. com/47 or call (402) 493-7960. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
PERSONNEL NEWS Rick Kingsbury Joins FNTS as Vice President of Sales and Marketing
Immanuel Welcomes Adam Kuenning as Corporate Legal Counsel
Rick Kingsbury has joined FNTS (First National Technology Solutions) as vice president of sales and marketing. In this executive role, Kingsbury will lead FNTS’ long-term sales vision and go-to market strategies as it continues to expand its customized and strategic IT services, enterprise-grade infrastructure, managed services, and hybrid cloud solutions, helping organizations expedite digital transformation through delivering services that consistently exceed expectations. Kingsbury’s dynamic 30-year sales career in the technology industry includes a vast amount of experience with sophisticated sales models, and cutting-edge products and services. FNTS is a wholly-owned subsidiary of First National of Nebraska. First National of Nebraska and its affiliates have more than $21 billion in assets and 5,000 employee associates. Primary banking offices are located in Nebraska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota, and Texas. For more information about FNTS, follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter or visit www.FNTS.com.
Immanuel, the region’s leader in retirement living and senior health, is pleased to announce Adam Kuenning, JD, LLM, has joined their leadership team in the position of corporate legal counsel. As corporate legal counsel, Kuenning will consult with Immanuel’s senior leadership team on corporate strategies, implementation, legal function, regulatory requirements, and more.
No Coast Business Advisors Adds New Brokers Valerie Jen and Anthony Hudson No Coast Business Advisors (NCBA) recently added Valerie Jen and Anthony Hudson to the brokerage team. Valerie will focus on servicing rural Nebraska, while Anthony will represent the Omaha market. Founder Jethro Hopkins, along with equal partner Jeff Dousharm, are excited to continue growing NCBA’s footprint in Nebraska and across the country. Valerie comes to No Coast with a 12-year background in technology, working as a software engineer and gaining experience in computer programming. Her education Valerie Jen background includes computer science and applied behavioral science. In addition to her role at NCBA, Valerie also assists her husband with their family-owned construction business. Valerie is passionate about working with small- to medium-sized businesses, offering them consulting in the areas of technology, marketing, exit planning, and more. Prior to joining NCBA, Anthony worked nine years in banking, gaining experience in commercial small business lending, merchandise solutions, and payment solutions. Anthony Hudson As a graduate of UNL with a degree in exercise science, Anthony also owns two 9Round Fitness locations in Omaha. His knowledge of owning, buying, and selling a business; familiarity with banking laws and regulations; and ability to identify the financial needs of clients, make him a valuable addition to the No Coast team. Assisting both sellers and buyers to reach their goals, No Coast Business Advisors is where people turn when they are looking for financing, vendors, or consulting. NCBA’s brokers are trained and equipped to help with valuations, the listing and promotion of a business to its target audience, the selection and presentation of businesses that fit a buyer’s criteria, the closing process, and more. For more information, please call (402) 217-3252, email ncbalincoln@gmail.com, or visit nocoastbusinessadvisors.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
Kuenning has professional background in medical, transportation and general law and recently served as associate attorney at Erickson | Sederstrom, P.C., L.L.O., in Omaha and contract specialist at Offutt Air Force Base. He is currently adjunct professor of law at Creighton University School of Law and has previously been adjunct professor of political science at University of Nebraska-Omaha, and adjunct professor of business at Bellevue University. Kuenning is also active in his community, lending talents to the boards of several organizations including the Cancer Alliance of Nebraska, Health Law Advisory Board, Radio Talking Book Service, and Visiting Nurse Association. As a not-for-profit, serving arm of the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) Immanuel’s house of brands includes: Immanuel Communities, Immanuel Pathways, Immanuel Community Foundationm and The Immanuel Vision Foundation. Learn more at www. immanuelcommunities.com or call (402) 507-4899.
MLCDC Welcomes New Childcare Development Director Maria Elena Castro The Midlands Latino Community Development Corporation (MLCDC) is excited to announce that Maria Elena Castro has been selected to lead their childcare educational program as the new childcare development director. Maria Elena developed the MLCDC’s children program 11 years ago. She eventually left MLCDC to start one of the best childcares in South Omaha, Solesitos Childcare Center (Little Sun Childcare). She is now coming back to MLCDC to expand the childcare program in the state of Nebraska and Iowa in areas where there is a great need for early childcare centers. Through its children’s program, MLCDC has provided orientation, training, technical assistance, and coaching services since 2008 to help low-income minorities own and manage home-based childcare and childcare centers in Nebraska and Iowa. MLCDC has expanded the childcare program to the refugee and asylees community in Omaha, Lincoln, and Bellevue. MLCDC also received a grant from the Department of Health and Human Services to create a new Refugee Family Childcare Micro-Enterprise Development Program. Maria Elena is from Peru and has a bachelor’s in architecture and interior design from Lima Peru. In Nebraska, she has received a comprehensive education in early childhood education from the Nebraska Health and Human Services, License Department, Nebraska Early Learning Connection, Management Training Program, Nebraska Department of Education, Metro Community College, Buffett Early Childhood Institute, and Buffett Early Childhood Institute. For more information about Midlands Latino Community Development Corporation, visit www.midlandslatinocdc.org or contact Marta Sonia Londoño Mejía at (402) 933-4466 / info@midlandslatinocdc.org. MARCH 2019 Strictly Business 29
PERSONNEL NEWS Cross Pointe Innovations Hires Phillip Martinez, Josee Beier, and Rayna Gochanour
HRAM Names Lynn Owen as Recipient of 2018 Volunteer of the Year
Cross Pointe Innovations has recently hired three new employees. Phillip Martinez was hired as a solution engineer; Josee Beier and Rayna Gochanour were hired as new business development specialists.
The Human Resource Association of the Midlands (HRAM) named Lynn Owen the 2018 Volunteer of the Year at their chapter program on February 12. The award is given annually to a member who has made outstanding contributions to HRAM, its membership, and the community during the year.
Phillip Martinez, an Omaha native, most recently held a position with Baker’s Supermarkets. In his new role, Martinez will be available to assist clients with any problems that may occur with their software or hardware. He will work to ensure that their network technology is sufficient.
Phillip Martinez
Josee Beier joins Cross Pointe with experience in sales and hospitality. As an account manager for HelmsBriscoe, the largest globallyrecognized hotel site selection firm in the world, Beier strategically partnered with companies and associations to serve as a resource to help them manage their hotel procurement process. Prior to HelmsBriscoe, she was a sales manager for the Council Bluffs Convention and Visitors Bureau. Rayna Gochanour is from Council Bluffs, IA, but currently resides in Papillion. Her background in sales includes experience as a sales manager for SpringHill Suites by Marriott and, most recently, an exectutive sales manager for Ameristar Casinos through Pinnacle Entertainment. Gochanour also owns her own business, Rayna Gochanour Designer, in which she has gained over 10 years of expertise in photography, publishing, graphics, and advertising/marketing.
Owen is a HRAM board member and cochair of the government affairs committee. With her past co-chair, Cheryl Pignotti, Owen strategically planned over the past three years how to bring more and better programming to the HRAM membership. Owen earned her B.S. in Communications from Wayne State College and her M.B.A. from Bellevue University. In 2012, she received her Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification and has been employed by CQuence Health Group as a human resources business partner since 2014.
Josee Beier
Cross Pointe Innovations is a full spectrum Rayna Gochanour wireless concierge consulting firm specializing in all things wireless. Putting customer’s needs first and following through with the delivery, Cross Pointe Innovations continues to help business’ save money with this expense, surpassing over $9 Million in realized savings this past summer. Some of their specific services include Cellular Telecom Expense Management, multicarrier solutions provider, tier II support (help desk), enterprise mobility management (security), phone buy-back and recycling, wireless mobility project consultation, wireless accessories, data failover solutions, Wi-Fi solutions, and more. For more information, visit www.cpitoday.com, or reach out via phone at (402) 934-1452 or via email at info@cpitoday.com. You can also follow along on their Facebook page (@CrossPointeInnovations).
It’s Not What You Know, It’s Who You Know & Who Knows You! At Strictly Business Magazine we strive to recognize local businessmen and women for their significant awards, promotions, achievements, and/ or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Omaha community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330 or submit your news via our website at www.strictlybusinessomaha.com. 30 Strictly Business MARCH 2019
HRAM is the premiere organization for human resource professionals in the Omaha metropolitan area and is the local affiliate of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). With over 1,000 members, HRAM is a super-mega chapter, one of the largest nationally. HRAM provides its members a comprehensive understanding and appreciation of human capital management. Through educational, developmental and professional interactive forums, HRAM serves the needs of businesses locally. Learn more online at www.hram.org or call (402) 932-1007.
MENTOR Nebraska Recognizes Mayor Jean Stothert as National Award Finalist Mayor Jean Stothert was recognized as a finalist for the 2019 Excellence in Mentoring Awards in the Public Elevation category, a national award presented by MENTOR: The National Mentoring Partnership. The award recognizes individuals who use their influence and public platform to support mentoring opportunities for youth. MENTOR Nebraska and their partner mentoring programs presented Mayor Stothert with the award at a ceremony on February 13 at the City of Omaha. Mayor Stothert has supported youth mentoring in Omaha for more than 10 years, first as a mentor to an elementary age student. She helped MENTOR Nebraska recruit more than 50 businesses for the Corporate Mentoring Challenge, a challenge that encourages Omaha businesses to create or expand mentoring within their organizations and to encourage their employees to participate in youth mentoring programs. Mayor Stothert further supports the mentoring initiative through her continued participation in Mayors for Mentoring, a national network of mayors across the country partnering with affiliate mentoring organizations and coalitions to mobilize their communities around youth mentoring. In addition, she has awarded MENTOR Nebraska a $10,000 grant to be used for mentor recruitment events. MENTOR Nebraska’s vision is for every young person to have the supportive relationships they need to grow and develop into thriving, productive, and engaged adults. Learn more at www.MENTORNebraska. org or call (402) 715-4175. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
NON-PROFIT NEWS Save the Date: Santa Monica House Spring Fundraiser April 27
MICAH House Presents Champagne and Diamonds Fundraiser on May 4
Santa Monica House is excited to announce that its Annual Spring Fundraiser will be held on April 27. The new time this year is from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the DC Centre Banquet Facility (3693, 11830 Stonegate Dr.). This event is designed to empower and inspire, along with highlighting the growth and happenings of the organization and those they serve. The event will showcase a moving testimonial from a woman who has successfully completed the program.
MICAH House is excited to present their annual Kentucky Derbythemed fundraiser, Champagne and Diamonds, on Saturday, May 4 from 4:30 to 8 p.m. This year, the event will take place at the MidAmerica Center in Council Bluffs. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their best Kentucky Derby attire as MICAH House raises much-needed funds for homeless children, families, and women in the community. MICAH House’s Champagne and Diamonds event features a silent and live auction, dinner, live-streaming of the Kentucky Derby, and their highly-anticipated diamond raffle. For information on sponsoring the event, please contact Ashley Flater at aflater@themicahhouse.org or purchase individual tickets online at www.themicahhouse.org/derby.
To reserve a table of eight or purchase individual tickets, contact Santa Monica House today! For those who are unable to attend, feel free to make a contribution or donate an auction item. Santa Monica House administers caring, comprehensive programs for women who desire to confidently and successfully live without the burdens of addiction through a long-term treatment program that empowers them to live productively, without the use of drugs or alcohol. Please help support Santa Monica House by attending or sponsoring a table at this event. Tickets are required for admission and can be purchased by contacting Heather Kirk at (402) 558-7088 or by email at heather@santamonicaomhcoxmail.com. Donations may be made through the website at www.santamonicahouse.org.
Founded in 1986, MICAH House (www.themicahhouse.org) is an emergency homeless shelter that serves families and women in the Omaha Metro area and Southwest Iowa. MICAH House provides safe shelter, nutritious meals, health care access, and adult education classes as individuals seek a better tomorrow. Learn more by calling (712) 323-4416.
Goodwill Omaha Receives Grant for YouthBuild Americorps Program Jewish Family Service, Woodhaven Counseling Associates Present New Parenting Course Parenting the Love and Logic Way®, a course created by Jim Fay, Charles Fay, Ph.D. and Foster Cline, MD, will be presented by Jewish Family Service and Woodhaven Counseling Associates. The course offers easy-to-use techniques that help adults achieve respectful and healthy relationships with their children. The purpose is to enhance parent/child relationships, relieve strain on family life, and create more time for parents to enjoy their kids. The program benefits parents with toddlers through the teenage years. The Love and Logic techniques produce immediate results because the techniques are simple, practical, and easy to learn. The concepts behind Love and Logic place a heavy emphasis on respect and dignity for children, and at the same time allows parents to grasp simple approaches instead of learning difficult counseling procedures. The classes are on Thursdays, March 28, April 4, April 11, and April 18 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center, located at 333 S. 132nd St. The cost of the sessions is $70 per couple. On-site childcare is available for children ages three to 12 for $5 per child, per session. Classes are facilitated by Teresa Drelicharz, LIMHP, RPT, licensed therapist and registered play therapist at Jewish Family Service, and Amber Lawrence, LIMHP, LMFT, licensed marriage and family therapist at Woodhaven Counseling Associates, Inc. Both have many years of experience in the field and strongly believe in the Love and Logic philosophy of parenting! Jewish Family Service is a Child Placing Agency licensed in the state of Nebraska. Their primary service areas include the Omaha and Lincoln communities. Other areas will be considered on a case by case basis. Call (402) 330-2024 for more information, or visit www.jewishomaha.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
The U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) YouthBuild program has a network of more than 200 urban and rural YouthBuild programs in 46 states. On January 31, 2019, the U.S. Department of Labor announced that $85 million in grants have been awarded to 81 YouthBuild programs in 32 states. The grants range from approximately $700,000 to $1.1 million. DOL informed Goodwill Omaha that its YouthBuild AmeriCorps was awarded $895,437 to fund the program for two years in 2019 and 2020. YouthBuild is an education and training program with a strong preapprenticeship component that helps at-risk youth complete high school or state equivalency degree programs. While doing so, participants earn industry-recognized credentials for in-demand occupations, and undergo training to build housing for low-income or homeless individuals and families in their communities. The grants awarded this year mark a significant expansion of YouthBuild’s Construction Plus model which allows grantees to offer training in locally in-demand industries beyond construction in fields such as healthcare, information technology, hospitality, and retail services, and logistics. To learn about the U.S Department of Labor YouthBuild program, please visit www.doleta.gov/youth_services/youthbuild.cfm. Goodwill Omaha’s YouthBuild AmeriCorps program is a nine-month educational, leadership, development, and occupational skill-training program for disadvantaged young adults. Members include young adults from ages 16 to 24 who are underemployed and do not have a high school diploma. The Monday through Friday program runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with time split between classroom instruction and hands-on construction work. YouthBuild AmeriCorps is also a proud partner of the American Job Center network. For more information, contact Norman Barnes, YouthBuild AmeriCorps manager, at (402) 522-7231 or nbarnes@goodwillomaha.org. MARCH 2019 Strictly Business 31
NON-PROFIT NEWS Project Harmony to Host Luncheon on Ending Child Abuse
The Set Me Free Project Presents “Comedy for Change” Annual Fundraiser
Join Project Harmony on Wednesday, April 3 at 11:30 a.m. at the CHI Health Center Downtown Omaha for their Speaking of Children luncheon. Keynote speaker Sasha Joseph Neulinger will share his story about surviving multigenerational child sexual abuse.
Laugh your “cash” off at Comedy for Change, The Set Me Free Project’s annual fundraiser, on Thursday, March 7, from 6 to 9 p.m. at A View on State (13467 State St.). The funds raised at this event support the organization’s efforts throughout the entire year. Attendees will enjoy a fun evening with food and drinks, a live and silent auction, and a featured comedian! The event is family friendly and all ages are welcome.
At just four years old, Sasha endured abuse from three separate family members over a four-year period. He lived a life framed by film—his father a filmmaker and Sasha an actor from a young age. Sasha’s presentation covers the abuse, family dynamics, childhood therapy, the prosecution process, and how he got to where he currently is today. Now a filmmaker himself, Sasha recently completed his first feature length documentary, Rewind, which is an autobiographical film about his life surviving multigenerational child sexual abuse. Did you know a report of child abuse is made every 10 seconds? Child abuse is a serious problem with lasting effects on each person it touches. It affects boys and girls of all ages, in all types of families. It happens in big cities, in small towns, and in rural areas. The cycle of abuse does not have to continue, though. Project Harmony believes there is hope and they are determined to fight child abuse through the resources and educational opportunities they offer. Ten seconds might not seem like a lot of time, but it’s enough time to be someone in the life of a child. Every second counts. Register for the luncheon today at ProjectHarmony.com, or call (402) 595-1326 with any questions.
Grief’s Journey Announces Date for First Family Day of 2019 Grief’s Journey will host the first Family Day event of 2019 on the weekend of Saturday, March 23, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Sunday, March 24, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. This free, fun-filled day is for families that have experienced a significant death. The theme for spring 2019 is “Blooming with Hope” and the focus is on spring-themed activities, remembrance, and support. Family Days are hosted several times through the year. The fall and winter events are both themed around seasonal holidays, Dia De Los Muertos for fall, and Tinsel and Tears for winter. The half-day programs can also serve as an introductory opportunity into the other services provided by Grief’s Journey. Most people (including parents, clergy, teachers, doctors) aren’t taught how to talk about death or support grieving children and families. Grief’s Journey knows that 6% of youth will experience the death of a parent; 20% will experience the death of an immediate family member; but 90% of children and teens will experience the death of someone significant in their lives before graduating from high school. Research indicates that unresolved grief correlates to issues such as poor school performance, employee absenteeism, loss of school and workplace productivity, and lingering emotional and behavioral burdens. Healthy coping leads to long-term success for children, families, businesses, and communities. Family Days at Grief’s Journey are open to adults and youth ages 3–18. Pre-registration is required and is available at www. griefsjourney.org or call (402) 502-2773 (ext. 105, Espanol). 32 Strictly Business MARCH 2019
Ticket prices are as follows: • $35 for a single ticket • $60 for a double ticket • $300 for a whole table (seats 10 people; $30 per person) The Set Me Free Project brings prevention education to youth and families to stop trafficking before it starts. They have a curriculum for 3rd–12th graders, as well as a curriculum for parents, educators, community members, and businesses. Their education is filled with activities and allows for plenty of questions and conversation. The Set Me Free Project holds their Comedy for Change event every year in order to give the people that they work with an opportunity to sit back and relax for a night of fun and laughs! If you would like to learn more about The Set Me Free Project, please visit setmefreeproject.net or contact Stephanie Olson at (402) 5213080 / info@setmefreeproject.net.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands Presents Big Basketball Bash Big Basketball Bash is back! Big Basketball Bash is a fun and interactive college basketball viewing party supporting Big B ro t h e r s B i g S i s t e r s o f t h e Midlands. Guests will enjoy the two semi-final games of the men’s NCAA basketball tournament with food, drinks, games, and more! Early bird tickets are available until March 15. The event will take place on Saturday, April 6 from 4 to 10 p.m. at the Scott Conference Center. There will be six viewing screens, a silent auction, pop-a-shot, and virtual reality! This is an event you will not want to miss! Get your tickets today by going online to bbbsmidlands.ticket.qtego.net/tickets/list. Big Brothers Big Sisters strives for all youth in the program to reach their full potential. A Big Brother, Big Sister, or Big Couple provides youth with a sense of safety and security, emotional support, and social skill promotion. Bigs and Littles are matched based on common interests so they can have the benefit of doing activities together that they both enjoy. With a Big by their side, more Littles are discovering who they are and what they can achieve in life. Big Brothers Big Sisters is working to clear the path for our youth’s biggest possible futures. For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands, please feel free to visit their website at bbbsomaha.org or, if you are interested in being a sponsor for the event, contact Lauren Mohatt at (402) 905-3331/ lmohatt@bbbsomaha.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
NON-PROFIT NEWS Omaha Home for Boys Announces Annual Golf Tournament Date
Inclusive Communities to Host Omaha Table Talk Main Event
Omaha Home for Boys is excited to announce its 2019 Golf Classic taking place June 5, 2019 at Tiburon Golf Club in Omaha. This fun-filled day of golf on the beautiful greens of Tiburon offers a number of sponsorship and team opportunities. Sponsorships range from $150 to $2,000 and offer a unique promotional opportunity for businesses. The four-person scramble tournament costs $600 per foursome, which includes green and cart fees, lunch, and dinner. The Home extends thanks to Scheels for serving as this year’s dinner sponsor at the golf tournament. Proceeds from the Omaha Home for Boys 2019 Golf Classic support the more than 300 youth served by the Home annually. Omaha Home for Boys equips and empowers young adults with the skills needed to lead independent, productive lives despite the many obstacles faced by these at-risk youth. To register a foursome or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact the Omaha Home for Boys development office at (402) 457-7165 or visit OmahaHomeForBoys.org.
Please save the date to join Inclusive Communities for the 2019 Omaha Table Talk Main Event. This year’s Main Event will take place on Tuesday, May 21, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at various locations, serving as a kick-off to Omaha Gives! Inclusive Communities will be partnering with 12 local non-profits, each hosting a small group discussion around the subjects of race and identity, and how they impact the work they do and the people they serve. Each group discussion will be guided by a trained facilitator.
Midlands Community Foundation’s 2019 Reflection Ball Raises Over $143K Midlands Community Foundation’s 2019 Reflection Ball, held on January 19 at the Embassy Suites in La Vista, raised more than $143,000. The gala was attended by 450 eager and generous guests. Net proceeds from the event will support the needs of non-profit organizations that provide programs and Pictured L-R: Tonee Gay, Midlands services to children in Sarpy Community Foundation executive and Cass counties in the areas director; Terri and Tim Burke, 2019 of art, community, economic development, education, health, Reflection Award Recipients; Patrick Sullivan, Midlands Community and human services. Foundation board president. At the event, the 2019 Reflection Award was presented to Terri and Tim Burke for their dedication to community service and their countless hours of volunteerism. “We are thrilled to present Terri and Tim Burke with this year’s Reflection Award. They give so much of their time and energy to our growing community and we are lucky Pictured: Reflection Ball committee to have them both leading the members. Front Row L-R: Kris Zey, way,” said Tonee Gay, executive Karla Rupiper, Diane Knicky; Brandy director of the Midlands Johnson, Bindy Frederick, Donna Community Foundation. Wilcox, Kathy Wendlandt, and Ken Summerfield. Back Row L-R: Jill Govier, The mission of Midlands Cathie Pajnigar, Martha Sopinski, Community Foundation is to Jan Davis, Brenda Carlson, Tami benefit the diverse needs of Field, Mary Gawecki, Carrie Krist, the Sarpy and Cass county Jackie Davis, and Pattie Iske. communities by providing financial support, involvement, and service. Since its inception, the foundation has donated millions of dollars to many worthy organizations. Learn more by calling (402) 991-8027 or visit midlandscommunity.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
Omaha Table Talk is a program which ensures everyone has a seat at the table. The mission is to provide people from all communities a space to take part in an open and honest dialogue about race and how it affects views of ethnicity, class, and all forms of difference, while enjoying a complimentary meal. Inclusive Communities envisions a society that is strengthened by diversity, inclusion, respect, and justice for all people. For more information and to have your name added to the invite list, please contact Suzanna George at (402) 391-4460 / Suzanna@InclusiveCommunities.org. Learn more about the organization by going online to www.inclusive-communities.org.
Papillion Community Foundation Launches Pantry for Our Patriots The Papillion Community Foundation has partnered with Moving Veterans Forward and Hy-Vee to launch Pantry for Our Patriots. Through this program, which was officially announced on Veteran’s Day of 2018, veterans in Sarpy County will be given one month of groceries and other needed items for free after they are moved into a home with the assistance of Moving Veterans Forward. When these veterans get put into a home, 99% of them don’t have a car so they can’t go get groceries on their own. The purpose of Pantry for Our Patriots is to give veterans that initial help so that they have the basic things they need as they adjust to a new home. Since its inception more than seven years ago, Moving Veterans Forward has provided homes for more than 1,200 veterans in the metro area—36 of those were in Sarpy County in 2018 alone. After seeing a need for a program that provides these veterans with some basic immediate needs, the Papillion Community Foundation was more than happy to become a partner by handling the project funds. With Hy-Vee providing fresh food at a tremendously discounted price, the foundation is able to purchase both perishable and non-perishable foods, along with other basic items, to last veterans a month. With the foundation handling the funds, people know 100% of their donations go directly to the pantry. In addition, the Papillion Area Lions Club donated $5,000 to Moving Veterans Forward to go towards buying a vehicle needed for the delivery of food and other items through the Pantry for Our Patriots program. This example of organizations coming together to support members of the community is very special. Anyone interested in donating to the Pantry for Our Patriots fund or learning more about the Papillion Community Foundation can do so by going online to www.papillionfoundation.org. Additional questions can be directed to Laura Schwartz, executive director, at (402) 331-3917 / lschwartz@papillion.org. MARCH 2019 Strictly Business 33
NON-PROFIT NEWS Girl Scouts artVenture to Host Art Auction with Cookie and Beer Pairings
Open Door Mission Presents 7th Annual “Ladle of Love” Event on April 28
Two events featuring hundreds of original works of art created collaboratively by Girl Scouts and professional artists will take place in Omaha and Lincoln this spring. artVenture is Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska’s one-of-a-kind annual fundraiser. Featuring hundreds of unique pieces up for auction, artVenture is a can’t-miss, adults-only event! The 15th anniversary of the Omaha artVenture Reception and Silent Auction will be on Saturday, March 23, from 7 to 10 p.m. at UNO’s Mammel Hall, 6708 Pine St. Omaha artVenture features delectable hors d’oeuvres, desserts, drinks, and incredible artwork up for bid. Online and mobile bidding are available for the best silent auction experience. The 10th anniversary of the Lincoln artVenture Cookies and Beer Reception and Silent Auction is slated for Sunday, April 14, from 3 to 5:30 p.m. at Lincoln Embassy Suites, 1040 P St. The diamond anniversary of the Lincoln event boasts over 200 pieces of local art, to be enjoyed alongside cookie pairings with nine craft beers, courtesy of Moran’s Liquor Works. Tickets are available at www.girlscoutsnebraska.org/artventure. artVenture is open to the public and attended by members of the community who come from different backgrounds to unite in support of girls.
On April 28 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Open Door Mission invites you to taste delicious soups, breads, and desserts prepared by area chefs at the 7th annual Ladle of Love. The event will be held at Open Door Mission’s Garland Thompson Men’s Center (2705 N 20th St. East). Attendees will have the opportunity to cast their votes for the “Best Soup of the Day,” which will be tallied up for the gold, silver, and bronze Ladle of Love awards! The family-friendly event will feature live music by Prairie Gators Band, dancing, a silent auction, a bounce house, and a clown making balloon animals. The event will also display artwork created by guests who have found safe shelter at Open Door Mission.
Parkinson Nebraska’s Skate-a-thon Brings in Over $20K More than 500 skaters turned out for Parkinson Nebraska’s 9th annual Skate-a-thon on January 25–26, which was hosted in par tnership with University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC). The 24-hour skating event once again raised more than $20,000. With this year’s total, the UNMC Skate-a-thon for Parkinson’s has now netted more than $210,000 in proceeds during its nine years at the UNMC Ice Rink. Proceeds go toward clinical and basic science Parkinson›s research at UNMC as well as Parkinson’s Nebraska, an organization started by the Wuebben family to provide affordable exercise, education, and services to improve quality of life for persons with Parkinson’s. Five skaters, Chris Rush, Oscar Knutson, Ryan Cary, Tyler Cary and Jenny Knutson, skated all 24 hours. The leading fundraising team was LeaseTeam, Inc. (headed by Ryan Cary). The team raised more than $4,200 in donations. UNMC physicians John Bertoni, M.D., Ph.D., and Howard Gendelman, M.D. spoke at the opening ceremonies, while Diego Torres-Russotto, M.D., participated in the closing ceremonies. Longtime UNMC faculty member, Jeff Baldwin, Pharm.D., who just retired this month after a 45year career in the UNMC College of Pharmacy, was recognized at the opening ceremonies. He has been battling Parkinson’s disease since 2013. Sponsors this year included: Anderson Convenience Market; Project Advocates; Masimore, Magnuson, & Associates, PC; Acadia Pharmaceuticals; Heritage Communities; LTi Technology Solutions; and Lundbeck Pharmaceutical Company. Parkinson’s Nebraska is the primary source of education, support, and resources for Nebraskans whose lives are affected by Parkinson’s Disease. They are locally-based, passionate, and proud that all funds stay in Nebraska. To learn more, contact amber@parkinsonsnebraska.org / (402) 715-4707 or visit www.parkinsonsnebraska.org. 34 Strictly Business MARCH 2019
Adults are $15 and children ages 6–12 are $7 if you buy your tickets in advance. Proceeds from the event help meet basic needs and provide life-changing programs for the hungry and homeless at Open Door Mission. Open Door Mission serves the homeless and working poor, especially victims of domestic violence. Open Door Mission is a Gospel Rescue Mission that meets the needs of individuals and families while inspiring HOPE for lasting change. For more information about Open Door Mission, please visit www.opendoormission.org. If you or your business would like to sponsor the event or your restaurant wants to be in the soup competition, please contact Deb Saraka-Rubin at (402) 8291503 / dsaraka-rubin@opendoormission.org.
Boys Town 2019 Booster Banquet Slated for April 30, Keynote Speaker Announced Boys Town is excited to announce that their annual Booster Banquet will be held on Tuesday, April 30 at the Embassy Suites — La Vista. The doors will open at 5:30 p.m. with dinner and program starting at 7 p.m. Each spring at the Boys Town Booster Banquet, the community comes together to recognize Boys Town’s student-athletes and to raise funds for sports equipment, uniforms, and other necessities. The 2019 banquet features dinner, special guest speaker Bruce Bowen, and silent and live auctions. With community support, the Boosters ensure that every child who comes to Boys Town has the opportunity to play sports. This support of Boys Town athletics guarantees that our youth have an outlet where they can have fun and learn valuable life lessons. Bowen, former San Antonio Spurs forward, is a three-time NBA Champion and an eight-time NBA All-Defensive Team selection who made a name for himself with his ability to stop the league’s best scorers. With a strong desire to help the less fortunate, especially youth and young adults, Bowen established The Bruce Bowen Foundation. His foundation is committed to supporting and enhancing the lives of youth in underserved communities, focusing on promoting programs that build character and nurture self-respect, confidence, responsibility, and camaraderie. For 100+ years, Boys Town has been a beacon of hope for America’s children and families through its life-changing youth care and health care programs. Learn more by calling their national headquarters at (531) 355-1300. If you know a child that could benefit from the Boys Town program, please contact the admissions office at 1-800989-0000 or visit the website at www.BoysTown.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
NON-PROFIT NEWS Kids Can Community Center “Can Do Awards Luncheon” Set for April 18
Heartland Family Service to Close Registration for “Strengthen Our Survivors”
Kids Can Community Center is proud to announce that the Can Do Awards Luncheon will be held on Thursday, April 18 at the Omaha Marriott in the Capitol District from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Join Heartland Family Service (HeartlandFamilyService.org) as they host their second annual Strengthen Our Survivors brunch and artisan vendor fair on Saturday, April 6 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you would like to attend, you must RSVP by March 20. The event will take place at Oak Hills Country Club in Omaha, located at 12325 Golfing Green Dr.
This year’s keynote speaker will be Dr. Cheryl Logan. Dr. Logan began her position as superintendent of Omaha Public Schools in July of 2018, coming from the School District of Philadelphia. There she served as chief academic officer, responsible for the academic achievement of more than 135,000 students. Dr. Logan has spent her career in education working in school districts with large immigrant populations, including students from significant English Language Learner populations. Additionally, several community members will be acknowledged as Can Do award recipients for their work in their community. Kids Can Community Center is a youth-serving agency whose mission is to educate, engage, and inspire children through early childhood care and out-of-school experiences. They are a state-licensed childcare provider for children ages 18-months to 13-years old, offering fullday early childhood education and out-of-school programs. For more information about Kids Can or the event, please visit www. kidscan.org or contact Josh Gillman at (402) 731-6988/ jgillman@ kidscan.org.
ENCAP Receives Funds to Help Further Its Mission, Assesses Community Needs Eastern Nebraska Community Action Partnership (ENCAP) has been awarded $87,000 in support of its mission from the following partners: William and Ruth Scott Family Foundation, Weitz Family Foundation, Omaha Community Foundation, and Farm Credit Services of America. “We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with local funders to provide quality programs to those working toward economic stability,” said Aaron Bowen, executive director. ENCAP recently completed a comprehensive community needs assessment. “We must take an in-depth look at data from a variety of areas to understand the challenges people with low-incomes face in Douglas and Sarpy Counties. We also talked to stakeholders from the community to gain their input on how ENCAP can best address those needs,” said Bowen. In early March, the staff and Board of Directors will develop a comprehensive strategic plan in response to its assessment of needs and resources in the area. “We look forward to sharing the results of the strategic planning process with our community partners,” said Bowen. “There are many opportunities ahead for ENCAP, and this financial support strengthens our capacity to build a bright future for the organization. We aim to make a lasting impact on our clients and our community.” Eastern Nebraska Community Action Partnership is a non-profit Community Action Agency that has been providing social and human services to people facing poverty since 1965. For more information, call (402) 453-5656, find ENCAP online at www.encapnebraska.org, or follow the Facebook page (@encap.omaha). #PrintProudDigitalSmart
All proceeds will benefit their domestic violence/sexual assault program, including the Safe Haven concealed emergency shelter. Individual tickets are $40, and sponsorship opportunities start at $300. Sponsorship commitments are due March 8. The mission of Heartland Family Service is to strengthen individuals and families in the community through education, counseling, and support services. Founded in 1875, Heartland Family Service currently serves more than 52,000 individuals of all ages each year from more than 15 locations in east central Nebraska and southwest Iowa. Their 50 programs provide critical human services to the individuals and families who ultimately shape the future of our community in the following focus areas: child and family well-being; counseling and prevention; and housing, safety, and financial stability. Learn more by visiting the organization’s website at HeartlandFamilyService. org. Other questions and RSVPs can be directed to Sarah Dighans at (402) 552-7475 or sdighans@heartlandfamilyservice.org.
NAM Partners with Young Nonprofit Professionals of Greater Omaha Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) is excited to announce its partnership with the Young Nonprofit Professionals of Greater Omaha (ynpnGO). This partnership allows members of ynpnGO to be members of NAM and have full membership benefits, such as the membership rate for all training; access to the NAM career center, including free job postings; and access to member-only networking groups and events. NAM has the same partnership with Young Nonprofit Professionals of Lincoln (ynpnLNK). These partnerships provide opportunities to collaborate with young professionals and increase their engagement and involvement in the non-profit community. Non-profit collaboration is important to the nonprofit sector and the community as a whole. The more non-profit organizations can work together, the more people benefit. NAM helps non-profits serve their communities. There are thousands of non-profits in the area, each trying to make a difference on their own. NAM brings them together so that each member can benefit from the organization’s collective strength of the more than 500 non-profit organizations throughout Nebraska and western Iowa. It is the only membership organization in the state dedicated exclusively to working with non-profits in the Midlands region. By connecting organizations with information, education, advocacy, and collaboration, NAM helps members focus their energy on the people and communities they serve. For more information about Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Greater Omaha, visit ynpngo.org. To learn more about NAM, visit nonprofitam.org or contact Hannah Young at (402) 557-5800 / hannah@nonprofitam.org. MARCH 2019 Strictly Business 35
r u o Y t Boos edibility r C e n i Onl For Free
FOSTER CARE: CEDARS 402-436-5437
www.cedarskids.com
I Became a Foster Parent and You Can Too Tami Thornton wants others to know that becoming a foster parent isn’t complicated. “It may seem daunting and scary at first,” she says, “but these kids are usually so thankful to have a home that they are more than willing to do their part.” Kids come into foster care for a variety of reasons. Ultimately, CEDARS goal is to either safely reunite children with their families or help find a permanent home for them. Until these goals can be achieved, foster families give kids stability and safety. “I’m able to provide some guidance and a sense of calm when things start to feel very out of control to them,” says Tami.
Strictly Business Magazine delivers powerful, online editorial content for our clients, content that Google assigns the maximum credibility. No other local media business can help you create new and fresh content with a higher level of skill and experience than we can—we’ve been doing this for 25+ years. Google loves original, timely, backlinked, and promoted editorial content. These are the most important SEO tactics that you should adopt to improve your website’s search engine ranking. By employing these tactics, you demonstrate to Google, and all the other search engines, that you and your website are a credible source of information. Establishing credibility with search engines is just as important as establishing credibility with clients and potential clients. Fresh new content is of the upmost importance for your website’s online ranking and your ability to hold on to a coveted top search position. Strictly Business Magazine is your local expert for creating original, timely, backlinked and promoted editorial content, and the proof is in the 12.7+ million times our clients’ press has been seen in just Google Search Engine Result Pages (SERPs) per year. That’s over one million times that our clients’ content has been viewed in Google search results per month! WOW! To see the proof, just visit our website and click on the “Boost Your Online Credibility” ad. What’s even more amazing is the fact that we will create, post, and promote your content at no charge, zero cost, as a part of your print advertising campaign. That’s Right: It’s 100%, Totally, Absolutely, FREE! Isn’t it time you created some new and fresh content to increase your online presence and credibility for free? To get started, call or visit our website today: 402.466.3330 | StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com
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With offices in Lincoln and Bellevue, Nebraska-based CEDARS has been serving children and families for over 70 years. The CEDARS Foster Care team works every day to ensure that over 200 foster children and youth flourish in loving families. Because foster parents are an integral part of the CEDARS professional team, they are equipped with exceptional training, have access to support 24/7, monthly support groups and quarterly gatherings for foster families. CEDARS staff walk alongside children and families every step of the way. With encouragement, guidance, and direction, the team has the honor of watching lives change. Tami says that the teens she fosters keep her on her toes. “I love how they are so funny! Who needs a slang dictionary when you live with teens?” It is important to know that there is no typical CEDARS foster family. CEDARS foster families include parents with children at home, single adults, and empty nesters. To help, all you need is a stable home, an open heart, and a willingness to reach out to a child in need. If you have ever considered fostering and would like more infor mation, please contact Adrianne Poppe at (402) 4378959 or apoppe@cedars-kids. org.
Lisa always had a heart for kids who needed someone to care about them. SHE BECAME A FOSTER PARENT.
YOU CAN TOO
402.437.8959 CEDARSKIDS.ORG
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HEALTH NEWS American Cancer Society Emphasizes Importance of Colon Cancer Screenings
NAMI Omaha Announces Date of Next Mental Health Public Educational Meeting
According to the American Cancer Society, colon cancer can be prevented. If you are 45 or older, it’s time to talk with your health care provider about getting screened for colorectal cancer. The American Cancer Society released the following statement to educate the public:
NAMI Omaha’s next Mental Health NAMI Affiliate meeting will be held on Thursday, April 4 from 6 to 8 p.m. This meeting is free and open to the public. Nebraska Family Helpline will discuss the helpline, what help can be expected and other resources that might be needed when a family member or other person feels like giving up. These meetings take place the first Thursday of each month at First United Methodist Church, located at 7020 Cass St. in Omaha. Parking is available on the east and north side of the church. Enter through doors #4 or #6 and proceed to room 112.
“Many people with colon cancer or polyps don’t have symptoms, and the risk of getting colon cancer goes up with age. That’s why men and women need to get screened for colon cancer starting at age 45, even if they feel healthy. If you have a family history of the disease or have certain other risk factors, you should talk with your provider about beginning screening at a younger age. Screening can help find and prevent colon cancer. In fact, if your doctor sees polyps that look like they can turn into cancer, they will remove them. When you have polyps like these removed, you may be preventing cancer! Preventing colorectal cancer, or finding it early when it might be easier to treat, doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. Simple, affordable, take-home tests are available.” The American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org) is on a mission to free the world from cancer. They provide free lodging near treatment, a 24/7/365 live helpline, free rides to treatment, and advocacy groups to create awareness. Call (402) 423-4893 for more information.
American Heart Association Addresses Cardiovascular Disease According to the American Heart Association, nearly half (48%, 121.5 million in 2016) of all adults in the United States have some type of cardiovascular disease, according to the American Heart Association’s Heart and Stroke Statistics — 2019 Update, published in the Association’s journal, Circulation. As the world’s leading voluntary organization focused on heart and brain health, the American Heart Association publishes the definitive statistical update annually to provide a comprehensive resource of the most current data, relevant scientific findings, and assessment of the impact of cardiovascular disease (CVD) nationally and globally. The annual update represents a compilation of the newest, most relevant statistics on heart disease, stroke and cardiovascular risk factors impacting cardiovascular health and is gathered in conjunction with the National Institutes of Health and other government agencies. Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death globally. After decades of a steady decline in the U.S., CVD deaths are on the rise (840,678 deaths in 2016 up from 836,546 in 2015), although worldwide, the number of people dying from CVD was lower in 2016 (17.6 million) than the previous year (17.9 million). Research shows approximately 80% of all cardiovascular disease can be prevented by controlling high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol, along with adopting healthy lifestyle behaviors such as not smoking. The health behaviors such as eating a healthy diet, engaging in physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight could have the most impact as they contribute to multiple conditions. The American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association are devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-800-AHA-USA1, visit heart.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
NAMI Omaha is a non-profit organization composed of consumers, family members, professionals and friends who have come together to share and take comfort in the commonality of their experiences and to educate members of their communities about serious brain disorders. Along with education/literature, support, workshops, conferences and more. NAMI Omaha actively advocates at the local, state, and national levels to improve the services and the lives of those affected by mental illness and their families. For information on NAMI Omaha, go to namiomaha.org or call (402) 345-8101 or (877) 463-6264. For helpful articles on mental illness, follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NAMIOmaha.
Community Health Charities of Nebraska Announces Community Choice Grant In celebration of t h e o r ga n i z a t i o n’s upcoming name change and rebrand campaign effective July 1, 2019, Community Health Charities of Nebraska, soon to be CHAD (Combined Health Agencies Drive), will award one of its 22 member charities the firstever Community Choice Grant through the Curt Gordon Memorial Foundation. This $1,000 award can be used by the charity recipient in any way they see fit to support their mission. The winner of the grant will be decided by community vote on the organization’s current web site, www.chcne.org, with the requirement that all who vote also like the organization’s Facebook page (@CHADNebraska). Voting will begin on Wednesday, March 6, at 12:01 a.m. and run through 11:59 p.m. on Friday, March 15. Eligible charities are those who are part of the workplace giving federation and include: The ALS Association Mid-America Chapter; Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter; American Diabetes Association of Nebraska; American Lung Association in Nebraska; Arthritis Foundation Nebraska; Autism Action Partnership; Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska; Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, Nebraska/Iowa Chapter; Cystic Fibrosis Foundation – Nebraska Chapter; JDRF International - Heartland Chapters; Leukemia & Lymphoma Society – Nebraska Chapter; March of Dimes, Nebraska & Western Iowa Market; Muscular Dystrophy Association of Nebraska; National MS Society - Mid America Chapter; Nebraska AIDS Project; Nebraska Chapter of the National Hemophilia Foundation; Nebraska Community Blood Bank; Nebraska Hospice and Palliative Care Association; Nebraska Kidney Association; Susan G. Komen® Great Plains; Team Jack Foundation; and United Cerebral Palsy of Nebraska. Learn more about Community Health Charities of Nebraska online at www.chcne.org or call (402) 614-8500 (state office). MARCH 2019 Strictly Business 37
HEALTH NEWS FNTS Partners with Folding@home to Further Health Care Research
Sarpy Chiropractic Opens Second Location in Millard, Celebrates with Ribbon Cutting
FNTS (First National Technology Solutions), a leading global IT service and cloud provider, announced it has formed a technology partnership with Folding@home, a computing project committed to identifying new ways to treat diseases. Folding@home was created in the Pande Lab at Standford University in 2000 and now consists of teams from eleven universities around the world that research protein dynamics. The project was originally focused on protein folding, the way a protein folds in the cells that make up the body. Humans rely on proteins to keep them healthy, but when they misfold, there can be serious consequences to a person’s health. Folding@home is analyzing diseases that result from protein misfolding and utilizing computing strategies to fight them. The group also is discovering new ways protein dynamics contribute to human health and disease, as well as new opportunities for treatment. Operating one of the most secure, technically advanced data centers in the United States, FNTS is providing Folding@home with highperforming operating systems and cloud services that will augment the computing resources of volunteers who have donated computing power. Folding@home will have access to increased bandwidth and storage, which will boost the organization’s capacity so results can be analyzed and delivered faster. For more information on Folding@ home, please visit foldingathome.org. FNTS is a wholly-owned subsidiary of First National of Nebraska. First National of Nebraska and its affiliates have more than $21 billion in assets and 5,000 employee associates. Primary banking offices are in Nebraska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota, and Texas. For more information about FNTS, follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter or visit www.FNTS.com.
The Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce helped Sarpy Chiropractic celebrate the grand opening of their new Millard location with a ribbon cutting on January 17. The Millard office at 4909 S. 135th St., STE 104 is the second for Sarpy Chiropractic. The other practice is in Papillion at 10701 S. 72nd St., STE 120.
Behavioral Health Education Center Receives National Innovation Award The Annapolis Coalition on the Behavioral Health Workforce, a national non-profit organization dedicated to behavioral health care, has bestowed its Innovation Award on the Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska (BHECN) in recognition of the outstanding work the center does in addressing the behavioral workforce needs in Nebraska. The coalition found BHECN’s work in collecting, analyzing, and disseminating behavioral health workforce data, including identifying trends and future priorities, particularly noteworthy and a model for other states in the nation. “This award means a great deal to us because we were inspired by the principles of the Annapolis Coalition when we were designing our workforce center,” said Howard Liu, M.D., director of BHECN and interim chair of the University of Nebraska Medical Center Department of Psychiatry. “Along the way, we have increased the licensed behavioral health providers in Nebraska by 15%. That means better access for families when a child has anxiety or a parent is ready to get help for addiction.” Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska was created in 2009 when the Nebraska legislature passed LB 603 to address the statewide crisis in mental health access. Since then, BHECN has received two national awards and is considered a best practice for innovative programs to recruit and retain licensed mental health professionals in rural and urban communities. Housed at UNMC, BHECN has a unique partnership with all of the graduate behavioral health training programs in Nebraska and is dedicated to improving access to behavioral health care across the state. For more information about BHECN, visit www.unmc.edu/bhecn. 38 Strictly Business MARCH 2019
Sarpy Chiropractic is run by three experienced doctors: Dr. Rodney White, Dr. Justin Brazda, and Dr. Tim Sullivan. They have helped many people with headaches, neck pain, and back pain using safe and nonsurgical methods. Services offered include Active Release Technique (ART), chiropractic adjustments, and pediatric care. They accept almost all forms of insurance and try to keep their fees low and affordable, so you can handle your pain without financial stress. In fact, because their practice is committed to serving the community, they offer an efficient and comprehensive consultation and exam for only $56. To make an appointment at Sarpy Chiropractic, contact their office by phone at (402) 593-9930 (Papillion) or (402) 763-9955 (Millard). Learn more about their services online at www.sarpychiro.com. Sarpy Chiropractic is also very active on their Facebook, sharing articles, videos, and tips—find them at @SarpyChiropractic.
Outlook Nebraska Sponsors Vision Resource Fair April 6–7 Get answers to your questions about vision loss at Vision Resource Fair, sponsored by Outlook Nebraska, on April 6 and 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Baxter Arena. This free event features more than 20 exhibitors providing information about managing eye conditions; living independently; enjoying social, cultural, and recreational activities; working or returning to work; getting around town; using digital eyewear and other new technology; and handling stress, change, and emotional health. Conditions such as diabetes, glaucoma, and aged-related macular degeneration are increasing the odds of severe vision loss. As their sight declines, individuals and those who support them—including friends, family members, and employers—have more questions and concerns about the effects on work, social, and daily activities. Held in conjunction with Omaha’s Health Expo, the Vision Resource Fair provides a single location for learning about community resources to help those experiencing vision loss. Free vision screenings for all ages will be offered, courtesy of Omaha Lions Clubs—a great opportunity for children, parents, and grandparents to learn about eye health together. As a primary sponsor of the Vision Resource Fair, Outlook Nebraska is offering complimentary tickets, available for download at outlookne. org/resourcefair. When entering Baxter Arena’s main entrance, let Health Expo staff know you are there for the Vision Resource Fair to receive free admission. Outlook Nebraska is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to positively impacting everyone who is blind and visually impaired. Outlook Nebraska directly employs blind and visually impaired individuals in its paper products converting facility and contact center. To learn more about Outlook or to contribute to its mission, call (402) 614-3331 or visit outlookne.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
SPRING CLEANING
Septic Tanks • Grease Traps Hydro-Jetting • Car Wash Pits
(402) 332-5575 MidlandPumpingService.com
As you may have heard, Punxsutawney Phil, the world’s most famous groundhog, predicted an early spring this year. Even though it may not feel like the welcomed warmth of the next season is around the corner, the flowers will be blooming before we know it! The Groundhog’s Day prediction is certainly good news in that sense, but it also means “Spring Cleaning” will have to start early this year. No matter what the temperature is outside, the official, non-groundhog start to spring is Wednesday, March 20. Spring is the perfect time of year to take on some of the household or office projects that you’ve been avoiding. The term “adulting” has become a popular slang term to describe coping with these sorts of daily responsibilities. One of the best ways to sanitize a work space or living area is to ensure things are organized and put away to clear all surface areas for cleaning. With so many tasks to remember for spring cleaning, from checking on your HVAC system to detail cleaning unattended parts of the house, a thorough checklist can be an invaluable tool. If someone only has the time to care for something once a year, missing it can cause twice the cobwebs, grime, and decay to build, some of which go undetected.
Teresa Hodgen 360 Clean
As the owner of 360 Clean, Teresa Hodgen began working as a cleaning professional in 1990 when she sought work that would allow her to support and spend time with her young daughter. She has since worked for homes, apartments, commercial buildings, and offered a range of custom cleaning services— from window washing to floor and carpet care. She strongly encourages spring cleaners to list priorities when cleaning their own homes, and discussed some common “missed items” she has observed over the years.
Hodgen has noticed that an aspect of cleaning that many people tend to miss is dusting in high and hard-to-reach areas, along with cleaning and disinfecting light fixtures. “Light fixtures frequently attract insects and tend to get skipped over since they are inconvenient to reach. If left unattended, they can become a Petri dish for germs and decay. This is an example of something we would be looking for when we perform an initial consultation. We perform a walkthrough of the property and identify important cleaning needs for each client on an individual basis. Then we would set up a personalized cleaning clan to ensure you receive the exact cleaning experience you want,” explains Hodgen. She adds that not only are food crumbs or stains on the carpet unappealing to visitors, they can also severely shorten #PrintProudDigitalSmart
the number of useful years for a carpet, meaning expensive replacements occur sooner. “Routine carpet cleanings help maintain the lifespan of your carpet and help protect your investment. Our carpet cleaners leave a mildly wet carpet that dries quickly, and we use a pet and child safe formula,” offers Hodgen. Spring is a good time to reorganize all your covers and pantries because now is the time of the year when pests start to come back as it get warmer outside. If you have a buildup of crumbs, it’s more likely to attract pests. Scrub down cabinet covers and drawers since a lot of bacteria tends to build up in there. In addition to the insides of drawers, the fronts of kitchen cabinets are often exposed to germs, but are not frequently washed. “Sometimes germs just drip down the front from the counters and the bacteria never gets cleaned away,” warns Hodgen. “Also, when cleaning out your refrigerator, check the seal. Many people need to clean out the coils in their refrigerators. Dust tends to build up there. Same thing with dishwashers. Everyone should check the bottom panel and try cleaning off the filter. If you don’t do that, certain dishwashers just blow more bacteria on your dishes.” Germy surfaces and floors are not the only potential health hazards. Water treatment is vital for any home or office that wants to promote health and sanitation, and especially in the Midwest where hard water is common, it requires some extra attention. As the director of business development for Aqua Jeff Sneller Systems, Jeff Sneller is experienced in Aqua Systems MARCH 2019 Strictly Business 39
the treatment of municipal water, as well as water for residential and commercial applications. Sneller explains three key areas that home and business owners should consider about treating their water: 1. Water softeners, commonly used to condition hard water. 2. Water filtration systems, which have become popular in recent years to remove undesirable elements from drinking water. 3. Bottleless water coolers as an alternative to both workplace drinking fountains and plastic bottled water. First, Sneller explained the importance of understanding hard water’s impact on all kinds of cleaning, especially in the Midwest. “The term ‘hard water’ is meant to describe the amount of minerals dissolved in water, most commonly calcium and magnesium. Hard water is inconvenient to use for all cleaning and washing because it leaves behind these minerals. There is an ongoing debate about the potential health effects of hard vs. soft water, but some research has suggested there may be a correlation between harder drinking water and cardiovascular disease. Hard water also creates a uncomfortable film, like soap scum, when washing or showering. The lifespan of a water softener can vary, and while 10 years is a good estimate, water softeners that are used frequently, for large families for example, can have a shorter lifespan. Spring cleaning is a good opportunity to check to ensure your water softener is not past its lifespan.” Beyond the inconvenience created by hard minerals, germs and contamination can also affect untreated water. Sneller adds that “reverse osmosis systems use pressure to force water through a series of filters, leaving contaminants behind. This is a popular
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choice to prevent water with a funny odor, taste, or color.” Traditional public water fountains are frequently disliked by customers and guests. Who knows how many people have left their saliva on one? Sneller encourages business owners to consider a bottleless water cooler as a popular alternative. “A bottleless water cooler has none of these sanitation problems. Furthermore, we use the same micro filtration process used to make bottled water. At Aqua Systems, our customers are the motivation to keep producing the best product offering we can. From making our SmartChoice water softeners and PureChoice reverse osmosis systems right here in the U.S.A., to a 90-day money back guarantee, we understand quality. We are working to improve the quality of drinking water using a variety of methods across eastern and central Nebraska,” promises Sneller. Water treatment isn’t the only important sanitary consideration. Because so many homes in the Nebraska area are not connected to city sewer systems, understanding care and treatment of waste disposal systems is a must. “If your home or business is on a property with a septic tank, spring is a great season to consider having it pumped. Pumping of your septic tank should be on your to-do list once every three to five years if you have an average sized tank (1,500 gallons) with a family size of about three to five people,” explains Aimee Hoffman, office manager for Midland Pumping Service, Inc. “If there are more people than that using the system on a regular basis (and especially if they are kids as they tend to put more solids into the tank), then we suggest having the tank pumped as often Aimee Hoffman as every two to three years. Putting off Midland Pumping this essential home maintenance item can Service, Inc. lead to costly and inconvenient septic system back ups...it is always favorable to be proactive on this measure!” she insists. Spring is an ideal time to schedule a pump not only because it is convenient for outdoor work but also because of the rainy season: “Spring or early summer is a favorable time to pump your septic tank,” recommends Hoffman. “The combination of spring rains and snow melt add extra water to your system and emptying the tank can help prevent the drain field from becoming over saturated. This will also allow plenty of time for bacteria that are necessary for breaking down the waste in the tank to re-establish prior to the next winter,” she adds. Some businesses have special requirements, which are common not only for restaurants but are often required by regulations for any large kitchen. “If you are a business owner or manager and there is a grease trap connected to the plumbing of your restaurant or commercial kitchen (almost all do as they are generally required by city code), now is the time to give it some attention! Many restaurant owners/operators are not even aware that they have a grease trap or that it needs service, ideally every one to three months. Failure to regularly have a grease trap pumped, as well as regular flushing of the lines connected to it, will almost certainly result in unwanted and expensive plumbing problems at some point,” advises Hoffman. Having magnets or reminders on calendars or smart devices can help property owners ensure they avoid costly damage to these systems. “People often treat their septic tanks and grease traps as “out of sight, out of mind,” says Hoffman. “When a septic tank is #PrintProudDigitalSmart
neglected year after year, solids can become extremely difficult to remove from the tank with pumping alone. Over time, this can cause irreversible damage to the entire system. Neglecting a grease trap can have similar effects. Plumbing back up inside of a home or business is not only extremely costly and stressful, but it can be a health hazard,” she urges.
this is a high traffic area. Are kids going to be running around this surface a lot? Staining and sealing is a good option for those areas because it needs to be durable. However, because staining requires maintenance every two to three years, painting is a beautiful, longer-term solution for vertical fences and walls,” adds Hansen.
However, Hoffman thinks property owners don’t need to fear expensive damage to these systems so long as they have the right outlook. “Be proactive instead of reactive! You will never regret staying ahead of home and business maintenance to save yourself time and money in the long run,” she recommends.
In addition to exterior surfaces, professional painting or wallpapering can provide an appealing, welcoming aesthetic to a home or business’ interior space. Hansen is proud of Gerst’s record of service for interior as well as exterior jobs. “We’ve built a trusted reputation for our craftsmanship since 1977. We perform a follow-up evaluation with our customers to ensure they are satisfied, and back up our quality work with a one-year, written guarantee,” emphasizes Hansen.
Besides water treatment and plumbing considerations, a true healthy home has top-notch air quality. As the season changes to spring and then summer, consider humidity and preventing mold growth in warm, damp, dark places. For humidity control, when you wake up in the morning and your nose is bleeding, your wood floors are squeaking, or there is static on your clothes, those are effect of humidity. Humidity fluctuates depending on the temperature outside. In the winter, it’s good to have a humidifier running in the house. In the summer time, shining UV light in places where mold is likely to grow is advised. Other common things that can radically affect a home’s comfort and sanitation include: Air filters: Changing filters is huge. In the summer, furnaces turn into an air handler. It’s dispersing air through the house. While it is often recommended to change air filters once every six to 12 months, homes with multiple occupants, and especially homes with any pet will require far more frequent replacements for air filters. For families with more than one pet or where someone suffers from allergies, changing the filter once per month is recommended. Request an air duct cleaning every few years: It’s not going to be a DIY project, but duct cleaning is important. If you start restricting air flow, getting any junk in the ducts can cause air quality problems, especially if you own animals.
Whether or not you believe in the Groundhog’s Day prediction of an early spring, warmer spring weather will come sooner or later, and the longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures demonstrate why spring cleaning is such a widely accepted tradition. It’s the most practical time of the year for this work, especially for businesses and busy home owners who want to hire a professional service that fits with their schedule. Omaha businesses offer a range of services which target different aspects of a home or business, from cleanliness and sanitation, to expertise on the machines that maintain our water and air systems, to preserving building materials from rust, mold, and the elements. If you are unsure where to begin with your own spring cleaning regimen, a conversation with one of these local experts would be a good place to start.
Ensure that evaporator coils are able to drain downhill. When the air conditioner is running, it’s going to create a lot of condensation. You need to ensure that it’s not getting clogged. Examining your home’s water, air filters, heating, and cooling systems is important to ensure none of these machines have reached the end of their lifetimes, but examining your walls and exterior can help you spot a variety of problems as well, some of which add expenses. Look for unsightly wear on paint, damage or scratches from branches, and cracks near doors and window linings, which would allow hot air to escape your house during the winter or creep in during the summer. As a partner and general manager for Gerst Painting, Casey Hansen is experienced in how paint can not only provide an aesthetic, decorative quality to homes and businesses, he is also experienced in how it can help preserve a building from the elements, especially wooden structures like fences and decks. “When unprotected wood is exposed to water, it develops mold and begins to rot. Not only is this unappealing, it can be dangerous if the integrity of Casey Hansen the wood is compromised. Stains and Gerst Painting paints are used to waterproof wood and protect it from sun damage and whatever debris may collect on it,” explains Hansen. Generally speaking, vertical surfaces are usually painted, while horizontal surfaces are usually stained. “Think about if #PrintProudDigitalSmart
It’s Time To Start
SPRING CLEANING! What we offer: •The best cleaning experience possible •Cleaning for any size home or business •Services in and surrounding Lincoln •Professional janitors and maids •Friendly, professional approach •Quality assurance and customer satisfaction
Call 402-460-0883 today for an initial consultation!
www.360CleanCompany.com 1845 Pepper Ave., Lincoln, NE 68502 MARCH 2019 Strictly Business
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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT
11011 Q Street, Suite 103C Omaha, NE 68137 www.PTISolutions.com Contact us @ (402) 592-4259 Predictive Technology, Inc. (PTI) provides monitoring, management, asset management systems, design, engineering, and installation service solutions for data centers, colocations, computer rooms, telecom, utilities, government, manufacturing, and many other industries. Some of our solutions include, but are not limited to, battery management, DCiM solutions, power, infrastructure monitoring, Rack PDU’s, energy site assessments, UPS’s, leak detection, and more.
Power
PTI provides a full line of power products. • UPS • Power Distribution (PDU) • Metering • Batteries Big or small solutions for all applications.
Cooling
Meeting all your cooling needs. • Containment • Raised Flooring • Space Cooling • Portable Cooling • Cold/Hot Isle Containment
DCiM
Manage your Data Center space with the most advanced tools available. • Environet • Power IQ • Falcon • Al Infrastructure
Monitoring
Are you protected? Basic monitoring can save thousands of dollars in lost revenue. • Falcon • Seahawk Leak Detect • Wing Wireless • Al Infrastructure
Space
Your rack space is critical. Getting the best solution is a must. Wire management and airflow are necessary for long server life. • Chatsworth Racks • Vertiv Racks • Wire Management • Switch Air
Protecting the Integrity of Mission-Critical Facilities — One Solution at a Time! Predictive Technology, Inc is a highly diversified technology organization with the vision to provide our customers with the equipment, systems, service, and support that they need in order to maintain the integrity and health of their facility, regardless of their industry type or size. Our mission is to build partnerships with our customers, provide them with a peace of mind, and be their trusted advisor. PTI will never sell a customer a system that doesn’t fit their needs and we will always look out for our customer’s best interest.
AND YES...we answer our phone! You will get a real person—of our friendly staff members, prepared to service your solutions. We could speak more about ourselves, but it’s best to let our customers speak for us... “PTI does a great job delivering outstanding customer service. When I first started, they took the time to come in and train me on their software and they are always quick to respond to any questions that I have. I have not experienced any problems with their monitoring platform and they are fast on their installation of new services that I have added. I’m glad I am working with them.” - Infogroup
“We have been dealing with Predictive Technology for about 16 years new and couldn’t be more pleased with the customer service. From the initial system install, upgrades, component replacement, and just general calls for related information, all I have to do is make a quick call and PTI will give me anything I need in a very fast timeframe, usually within minutes. The president of the company, Tim Wilson, gives you the feeling of calling a friend unlike the large corporations that keep just passing you from line to line. Tim is very knowledgeable of the products he represents and he will go out of his way to get you taken care of.”
“PTI Solutions has always provided installed solutions that work and they stand behind their products. They have professional-level technicians that take pride in their work and the way the system is installed. The system has had very few problems over the years, but if anything needed a technician to come out and resolve it in person, they were always ready to send someone to make sure it was fixed properly. PTI Solutions, in my opinion, has been willing to take the extra step to be not only a vendor, but a great partner for battery monitoring systems. I would recommend them to others for any projects that need to use battery monitoring.”
- Data Center Property Management Group
- Fortune 500 Data Center
www.PTISolutions.com | 402-592-4259 | 11011 Q St., STE 103C, Omaha, NE 68137 For more product solutions, visit our ecommerce store: alegnahub.com. 42
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Commercial Construction
Commercial • Residential Call today! (402) 215-1914
Omaha’s Rising Population Creates Opportunities for Commercial Construction In 2018, The Omaha World Herald reported that the population of Omaha is projected to reach one million people by about 2023, citing demographer David Drozd of the University of Omaha. With the steady growth of Omaha’s population has come an increased need for commercial development. We spoke to local professionals who have an ear to the ground of developing technologies within commercial construction to find out what the future holds for the business world of Omaha. There are two related fields which affect the local architecture and cityscape of Omaha: commercial construction of new buildings, and restoration or renovation of older buildings. Because of the growing market for new residents, property management company Perry Reid Properties established Perry Reid Construction (PRC) in 2017, with a vision to create a contracting company that valued its employees, subcontractors, architects, and all owners. After over one year in operation, PRC provides a glimpse into the speed of Omaha’s growth. PRC is responsible for six multi-family construction projects across Nebraska and Iowa in the last year. They broke ground on the Mansions at Tregaron back in January of 2018. PRC has already completed construction of the clubhouse and five of Tregaron’s 13 buildings. “PRC is equipped to take on commercial and residential projects in the Omaha area. We have expertise in the areas of multifamily dwellings, hospitality buildings, and medical facilities,” says Alex Perry, director of operations for Perry Reid Construction. Perry says that the most important thing for a construction project to be completed efficiently is a dedicated staff. “It’s the people...There are times where, when we are building a big project, it’s all hands on deck. We want to treat our people well, make sure they are Alex Perry Perry Reid Construction truly invested in the company’s work, both monetarily and personally,” explains Perry. A firm’s relationship with its sub-contractors is vital because it can affect how efficiently a project can be set into motion. “Every general contractor is going to have subs that they would prefer to use if they can, because they love working with them, but you have to price competitively. On the other hand, because of our relationship with those subs, during the bidding process, we can encourage our subs to get this on the books so we can start as soon as possible.” Perry explains that the benefit of a general contractor is their ability to handle a variety of different issues for a client. “Let’s say you want to build a gas station. You might know an architect, but do they know anything about real estate development? I think we help fill in the gaps. Our experience on the property management side and on the development side really comes into play. A lot of this you might not even pay us for, we just like to do it. A general contractor provides a good combination, for any client who doesn’t do this every day,” advises Perry. Notable contributions have been made to Nebraska’s development by Cheever Construction, an employee-owned construction firm. They
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Thank You Omaha!
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completed the renovation of the Willard Community Center in 2018, expanding on the 100-year-old facility and installing a new roof, windows, HVAC system, handicap accessible restrooms, and elevator. They also completed a design-bid-build for a 16,000 square-foot addition to the UNL College of Law in 2017. As the president of Cheever Construction, Justin Kurtzer takes pride in their tight-knit employeeowner model. “Because employees own 100% of the company, all of us have a stake in the outcome Justin Kurtzer professionally, as well as financially,” Kurtzer Cheever Construction informs. According to Kurtzer, there are three traditional delivery methods that business owners can choose from when contracting a construction firm. • Construction Management (CM) - Owner hires architect/engineer responsible for design and a contractor responsible for establishing a program and schedule, organizing sub-contractors, and preparing a benchmark budget. An advantage of this method is the scope of the project can be clearly laid during the design process. • Design Build - Owner hires a single contractor, responsible for both the design and construction aspects. An advantage of this method is a single firm is responsible for completion of the project. • Design Bid Build - Unlike Design Build, owner hires an architect to design the project in its entirety. Competitors then bid for the contract to complete the building. An advantage of this method is the bidding process establishes the project cost. One aspect of construction which dramatically affects the look of a city is the distinction between new construction and restoration. As a project manager and estimator for McGill Restoration, Jennifer Baldwin has performed extensive research on restoration for older Omaha buildings. “When it comes to construction, generally when new construction is up, restoration or investment in aging infrastructure is down. However, with
the influx of young persons into the metro areas, we are seeing a steady increase in both new construction and restoration projects. The new construction is happening in the suburbs while the restoration is happening in the city centers. The trend of restoring older buildings or converting older spaces into modern designs is contributing to this trend. An excellent example of this is the Blackstone Hotel in midtown Omaha. This turn of the century building is being restored to its former glory,” she points out. Baldwin explains that restoration requires an inJennifer Baldwin depth understanding of a building’s history and McGill Restoration details. “When it comes to restoration, research is key. Researching the building, the materials, and the best techniques, is essential to providing a beautifully restored building/project. When it comes to the planning and execution of a project, we want to offer our expertise. Most companies know the finer points of new construction, but McGill Restoration understands the intricacies of restoration,” she says. Because restoration involves different requirements than new construction, asking questions about the building is vital. “I would say the best advice I have received is ‘ask a lot of questions and never make assumptions.’ In restoration, you can never ask enough questions. The more questions you ask the more you learn the history of a structure, be it a parking garage, a DOT bridge, or a building on the national historic registry. Every structure has a history and that history is important to its restoration. When was it built? What is it going to be used for in the future? These questions will provide answers to the type of material that must be used in its restoration.” Baldwin explains that McGill Restoration specializes in these four market segments: • Industrial. • Department of Transportation (DOT). • Parking Garages and Stadiums. • Masonry Restoration.
It’s More Than A Job...
It’s A Career
When he first started at McGill Restoration during the summer of 2006, Jeff McGill may not have realized that he was beginning down his career path. He only started with McGill Restoration as he recognized a company that valued his skills, hard work, and leadership abilities, all while paying a competitive wage. Jeff’s dedication, commitment, and astute abilities have allowed him to advance and grow into a professional career with a company he loves.
Right now, we are looking to hire the following positions at competitive wages: • • • • •
Estimator / Project Manager Superintendent; Foremen; Mechanics Concrete Finishers; Industrial Painters Pavement Marking Specialists General Laborers
McGill Restoration Offers a Wealth of Opportunities for Professional Growth and Development Please contact Stefanie Phelps at (402) 558-7989 (Omaha office) if you’re interested in working for a company that values your skills, hard work, offers career advancement, and pays a competitive salary. McGill Restoration is a Nebraska-based contractor, specializing in concrete and masonry repair, as well as high performance specialty coatings, offers restoration services for preserving infrastructure such as buildings, parking garages, stadiums, and roads.
Omaha 402.558.7989 | McGillRestoration.com | Lincoln 402.438.4110 44
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“Each of these areas are important to the aging infrastructure of our communities and nation, these are always our main focus of work and will continue to be long into the future,” emphasizes Baldwin. Her most important advice for any construction project to be a success is to build a competent team. “Construction is a team sport. Everyone from the Architect and Design team, all the way down to the project manager and craftsmen are vital to the success of a project,” says Baldwin. For both new buildings being constructed and older buildings being renovated, building control is a vital consideration for any modern space, allowing control over a variety of important systems such as HVAC, security, and lighting. These are often referred to as “smart systems” or “smart home” technology as some allow buildings to sense when they need to be activated to save on energy. “In our 20 years of operation, Engineered Controls has provided innovative and cost effective control solutions to over 3,500 satisfied customers,” explains Pat Pat Killeen Killeen, the president and CEO of Engineered Engineered Controls Controls. Some examples of Nebraska projects completed by Engineered Controls includes the Ameritas Insurance Building, Southeast Community College, The University of Nebraska–Lincoln, and the Lincoln Surgical Hospital. There are five key products offered by Engineered Controls: 1. Building automation to make buildings smarter, reduce energy costs, and provide comfort. 2. Lighting controls to sense wasteful electricity usage in unused rooms and use daylight harvesting to reduce excessive lighting. 3. A range of security products meant to serve a variety of individual security needs, including intrusion detection and surveillance. 4. Gas detection and ventilation to prevent sickness and death caused by vehicle exhaust in parking structures. 5. Parking management solutions, to streamline parking gates for any major private or public entity which provides parking. Energy savings is a consistent emphasis of Engineered Controls, and in addition to improving the bottom line for their clients, Killeen also believes they have promoted sustainability and reduced wasteful energy use for all their major clients. “Our vision is to transform the way buildings are designed, built, and operated,” says Killeen. As a Honeywell-Authorized Systems Distributor, Control Depot offers building control technology to residential and commercial customers. Control Depot’s customers include sub-contractors specializing in building controls, and electrical and mechanical specialists. Because of this, vice president Jeff Killeen says Control Depot has to offer a wide-range of up-to-date products and replacement parts to professional contractors. “Control Depot’s primary goal is to offer the necessary systems and replacement parts that will provide a safe, comfortable working Jeff Killeen environment, as well as cut wasteful energy Control Depot costs. We are helping companies become more sustainable and improving their bottom line,” says Killeen. In addition to offering the necessary products, Killeen says it is important for their staff to be knowledgeable of these technologies to best serve their clients. “We have assembled a team of knowledgeable, qualified individuals whose goal is to assist each customer with personal service rooted in their experience. Because our inventory rivals any of the largest retailers, we can offer comprehensive solutions for building controls,” adds Killeen. “In October 2018, we began offering the complete line of Contemporary Controls offerings. Thanks to this partnership, Control Depot is now able to offer additional technological solutions, which focus on providing reliable networking and communication for control systems. While building controls can provide solutions to the electric and temperature maintenance of a building, certain aspects of the building itself are most subject to wear and tear over time. These are important considerations for both new projects and when restoring older sites.
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Controls
Light Commercial HVAC Control Systems
Cloud based/Web Access • Zoning Applications • Easy To Install & Configure Perfect For Retrofit Projects • Free Software • Easy Mobile Access Prolon Controls is a leading manufacturer of HVAC control systems designed specifically light commercial buildings. STOP IN TODAY AND LET US SHOW YOU HOW CONTROL DEPOT AND PROLON CAN FILL YOUR HVAC CONTROLS NEEDS. (402) 934-0078 • 9304 G Court, Omaha, NE 68127 • controldepotinc.com
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Often, construction firms arrange for sub-contractors to fulfill the variety of responsibilities for construction and restoration projects. For example, roofing, siding, outdoor woodwork and flooring are all examples of individual aspects that generally require specialists as sub-contractors. We spoke to several sub-contractors who are responsible for specific areas of construction and remodeling. One of the most important and difficult aspects of planning new construction is the number of professionals with different areas of expertise who must collaborate. During the construction process, electricians have to work in collaboration with other teams, which requires not only experience in their field, but communication and planning with other professionals. PLUMBING Because the planning process for new construction involves communication, Scott Dai, commercial estimator and project manager for Big Birge Plumbing, says the work has to begin early. “My involvement early in the construction process is to review plans and specifications and bring together all the data we need to put together the best plan, and complete the project in a timely and efficient manner. Work closely with the foreman and journeyman ensuring they are familiar with all aspects of the material take Scott Dai off,” Dai points out. Big Birge Plumbing While working with Big Birge Plumbing, Dai helped complete Blackstone Depot and Dino’s Storage in 2018, and additional projects are already underway for 2019. Perhaps family learning experiences are the perfect preparation for this kind of flexible communication. Dai spoke about how his own background has inspired his work. “My personal source of inspiration would have to be both of my parents. I grew up with five brothers and one sister and looking back and reflecting on how the two of them worked as a team, always with the same common goal, making sure all our needs were met,” says Dai. One of the most important tasks for Dai is understanding plumbing
code requirements. “One aspect of a construction project that may be overlooked by the general public is applicable plumbing code. There are several different plumbing codes in the surrounding metropolitan area. As a certified plumbing instructor in Nebraska and Iowa, I am always reviewing the applicable codes including the OPC (Omaha Plumbing Code), the IPC (International Plumbing Code), and UPC (Universal Plumbing Code) not to mention the different amendments that might be involved with the different areas. The Plumbing code will impact which type of materials to use, fixture requirements, etc. which could have an important effect on the bottom line.” Dai’s most important piece of advice to those preparing to begin a commercial construction project is to do their research and get referrals. “As an owner/investor you are going to have a lot invested in your project, you are going to want to use people that will have your best interest in mind. It all starts with the Architect/Engineer, they are going to formulate your design to a plan format. Next, the general contractor/builder, he is going to bring all the subcontractors together and build your design. Trust that he will build a team of subcontractors that will feel just as responsible for your investment as you do. The old cliché ‘You get what you pay for’ is true. Do not necessarily go with the lowest number, use the best number.” Big Birge Plumbing has multiple construction projects in the works for 2019. Three expected to be completed this year include: 32nd and Burt Street Elementary, the Fitzgerald, and an additional Dino’s Storage location. ELECTRIC As the owner of Langer Electric, Chris Langer has provided repair, maintenance, and installation services to commercial and residential clients, receiving an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Langer says he strives to bring “a level of comfort that feels as though you’re pretty much working with family…I really want to bring a different level Chris Langer of customer satisfaction to the trade which is Langer Electric
Help Building Occupants Stay Alert, Refreshed & Learn More! Honeywell products increase comfort, energy efficiency, and improve indoor air quality.
Call us today to learn more about how Engineered Controls can help improve your building environment.
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hard to find nowadays. 2019 is going to be the year of expansion and hopefully creating an even larger customer base. We really want people to share in the experience of what we bring to the table.” Langer encourages his customers to feel free to give him a quick call or text to discuss anything related to a project. Langer says that while working on electric work for a commercial construction project, preparation and communication are key. “I make sure everything on my end is lined up with materials, labor, and communication between trades. We don’t EVER want to be the ones holding up a project,” explains Langer. This includes establishing a relationship with inspectors for construction projects. “My main concern with any project is making sure everything is completely in line with what the inspector wants. It doesn’t help anyone to butt heads with the one who ultimately calls the shots in the end. You have to be mindful of what exactly the inspector expects because each individual is different.” In Langer’s opinion, one of the best new technologies to save money on energy costs is in lighting. “LED technology has come a long way these last couple years. When I walk through a project nowadays and see the old incandescent bulbs it just makes me shake my head. You literally can take your energy consumption down by 80–90% with LED technology. Why waste the energy and money paying for old lights? What remains the same and what is changing as far as commercial construction goes? Customers are starting to realize when it comes to projects the cheapest isn’t necessarily the best. Quality comes with a price sometimes.” HEATING Approaching their 60th anniversary of service in the Omaha area, Getzschman Heating has been contracted for both the sheet metal fabrication and installation of heating systems, heat pumps, and air conditioners. When conducting a replacement or installation of a furnace or air conditioner system, Getzschman Heating recommends starting with a cost estimate, which they offer for free, and obtaining a written guarantee of performance for all equipment. “We would then offer a firm bid on the electric work using our licensed electrical contractor,” explains Gunnar Guenette, marketing manager for Getzschman Heating. “We also test during installation, and for replacements, we dispose of the junk remaining from the previous system. Respecting our customers’ property is something that we take pride in, whether it’s how our employees wear shoe coverings, or how we use tarps and floor savers to protect your floors while we work. We want our customers to be happy seeing their property left just as clean as we found it when we arrived,” says Guenette. For customers concerned with energy efficiency, Guenette says that diagnostic technology is critical for eliminating waste. “We train our technicians to measure the performance of HVAC systems to diagnose improvements. We call it ‘G-Verify.’ Pretty much, you are testing the combustion efficiency and the air the system is using and compare it to manufacturer specifications. It doesn’t matter if it’s a brand new system. You can waste almost half your energy if you are not testing the actual performance of the HVAC.” Guenette says that as a business with strong roots in family, Getzschmann Heating seeks to build a relationship of trust with their customers, and describe their customers as the G-Force. “We offer G-Force Exclusive offers to our customers like our maintenance program. Maintaining the system prolongs its life, and we offer discounts on any repairs. Our ‘Two-Year-Test Drive’ is a 100% satisfaction guarantee on a new system. If our customer is unhappy with their system’s performance, we will make it right,” explains Guenette. Sub-contractors each contribute their area of expertise to an aspect of a building. Similarly, each building project contributes to the total look and character of Omaha itself. Construction firms, whether they are comprehensive or work in collaboration with architectural firms, are responsible for a range of responsibilities—planning and executing the contract work for new commercial construction.
With the label “Silicon Prairie,” more businesses will continue to pop up in Omaha, resulting in more commercial construction. It’s good to know the friendly faces and names of those behind the progressive transformation our community’s cityscape. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
Call 402-554-1110 Smart Buyers Shop Now!
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JOINING ORGANIZATIONS There are many reasons to get involved in a community organization or association. Not only do they allow you to build your network and take advantage of continued education opportunities, they serve as a platform for giving back to the local community. Omaha is home to a vibrant, thriving business community. As such, there are many professional organizations available to individuals who are striving to stay active within the business community and/or their industry network. Of course, with a busy career and social life, how do you decide which organizations are the right fit? You have to think about your objectives in terms of how your service helps fulfill your own professional development goals, your employer’s desire to bring in and keep business, and the kind of service you want to give. In terms of making connections in the community, professional organizations provide an environment rich with potential. By tapping into a network of professionals, you have access to a wealth of knowledge and solid referrals, whether it’s helpful information a colleague passes along, a great job opportunity, getting connected with the best job candidates, trusted sources to give your business, and a way of populating your own pool of potential clients. Who doesn’t want to help grow their firm, acquire new customers, and even find great staff for their company? In some organizations, the membership will be limited to others in your same profession, or your industry in broader instances, while in others are comprised of like-minded professionals across all industries. When you think of it as a Venn diagram, many will opt for involvement in both types as there are distinct benefits to each as well as the shared ones. Above all, the power of networking is not to be underestimated; in fact, no matter what your career aspirations may be, building these types of relationships and various contacts will be instrumental to your success. Membership and participation in a professional organization is hands-down one of the best investments to make in your future. If you’re an employer, you’ll reap all of the same rewards from supporting your employees who participate in professional organizations and encouraging those who are interested to do so as well. Regardless of your objective, becoming involved in any organization is about developing meaningful relationships from which you will learn and hopefully grow your firm or business. It’s never too early or too late to get involved, but before you leap headfirst into making a commitment, first identify your objectives, do your research, and ask for recommendations. If you’re looking to join a professional organization, we’ve highlighted some wonderful ones right here in our community with membership and professional development opportunities. Passionate about where we are from and where we are going. We do more than live in this community, we imagine what it could be and push it to greater - harnessing vision, expertise, and the power of ‘we’ to raise our quality of life. We know community and business needs are ever-changing. Nothing is permanent. Nothing is guaranteed. Except for this: We’ll be here to connect and catalyze, advocate and lead, creating new opportunities, shouting up our region, strengthening it by helping others succeed. We won’t let up – and we won’t let down – because our work is too important, our pride is too deep and our community is counting on us. We are the Greater Omaha Chamber. Be part of it. OmahaChamber. org/Belong |memberservices@OmahaChamber.org| (402) 346-5000
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Strictly Business MARCH 2019
The Business Ethics Alliance builds leadership, strengthens organizations, and elevates Greater Omaha through positive, practical business ethics. We are committed to illuminating Greater Omaha as a beacon for business ethics excellence for cities around the world. On October 22, 2019, we will host Omaha’s first-ever business ethics conference—EthicSpace. The inaugural event will inspire and equip attendees to build high-trust workplace cultures. Registration and event information can be found at ethicspace.org. As a non-membership, non-profit organization, we invite everyone— from the C-suite to individual contributors and all in between—to join our cause. Attend our signature events or invite us into your business, no matter what industry or size. Learn more at businessethicsalliance.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
The Nebraska Restaurant Association acts as the principal advocate for Nebraska’s hospitality industry and promotes the qualities of strength, unity and excellence in and of its membership. The Association is dedicated to serving Nebraska’s restaurant and retail beverage industries by providing comprehensive industry education, proactive representation, aggressive industry promotion and the highest quality member benefits. Membership is a small investment with big rewards in the health of your business and the entire food service industry. It’s a big world out there and we will do all we can to make it a bit smaller! For membership information and to learn more about the Nebraska Restaurant Association, contact Brandy Nielson at bnielson@nebraska-dining.org or (402) 488-3999. Nebraska Restaurant Association is on the web at www.nebraska-dining. org and facebook.com/NebraskaRestaurantAssociation. The Empowerment Network (empoweromaha. com) works together with the residents and leaders to TRANSFORM the ECONOMIC condition and QUALITY OF LIFE of African Americans, North Omaha residents, and citizens of the Greater Omaha area. The goal is to close long-standing gaps in employment, entrepreneurship, education, housing and other quality of life factors to transform Omaha into a great city, thriving and prosperous, in every zip code and neighborhood. The Network CONNECTS the community on a common vision and mission; consistently COMMUNICATES key issues, solutions and priorities; COLLABORATES with individuals, groups and organizations on strategies, programs, policies and fundraising; and CREATES positive change through facilitation, advocacy, capacity-building and leadership development. The Network also generates and presents research and trends and hosts monthly and annual community meetings, summits and conferences, featuring local, regional and national speakers. The Network model, recognized regionally and nationally, relies on each person and organization doing their part. The Millard Business Association (MBA) was established in 2003 and is comprised of more than 350 area businesses who believe strongly in the free enterprise system. The MBA provides the catalyst for our new members to grow and prosper through a variety of events, opportunities, services, and programs. Joining this thriving organization is great way to GROW Your Business. Members do not need to reside in Millard. The basic requirement is doing business or wanting to do business in the Millard area. Membership is only $130 per year. Some of the benefits include: • Networking and Exposure—“It’s not what you know but who you know.” Make all those important contacts through Networking Lunches, “Bagels & Business” Meetings, Business After Hours, and Ribbon Cuttings. Join one of our many active referral groups. • Government Representation—Attend one of our Government lunches, meet one-on-one with your local, State, and Federal representatives. • Educational Opportunities—Stay competitive, be productive! Our monthly “Lunch and Learns” offer expert advice for today’s economy. • Membership Directory—As a member you receive a free listing in the printed and online directory, which is distributed across the entire Millard area (30,000 copies printed yearly). Apply for membership at www.MillardBusinessAssociation.org. For more information, contact the MBA Admin, Kim Jipp, at (402) 7072827 or email info@millardbusinessassociation.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
For 65 years women in the construction industry have had a place to go for career development, networking, education, and mentoring. That place is the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). NAWIC gives women a place to develop their leadership skills and forge connections with other women in the industry. NAWIC offers women a multitude of opportunities. With NAWIC you can: • Continue your education. • Establish a networking base. • Be a mentor or mentee. • Make a difference in your community. • Embark on a new career. • Invest in great friendships. The Greater Omaha Chapter meets on the second Thursday of each month at various locations in the Omaha area. Visitors are welcome to attend. Current information about upcoming meeting locations, topics and times is available on our website at www.nawicomaha.com.
The Nebraska Society of Certified Public Accountants is a dynamic association of 2,600-plus professionals dedicated to advancing the accounting profession and furthering the knowledge, competence, and performance of its members. The Society offers nearly 100 opportunities each year for CPAs to meet and exchange ideas with fellow professionals and develop leadership skills. Want to prove your abilities to a partner in a CPA firm? Join a Society committee to network with the profession’s leaders. More than 40 Nebraska CPA firms are represented on Society committees. Don’t work in public accounting? Dozens of industries are represented. In addition, the Society provides live and online Continuing Professional Education (CPE), state and federal legislative representation, and technical and professional information to help CPAs better themselves and the profession. We also offer college scholarships and mentoring to help build a better Nebraska. Make your next important career move and join the Society. Visit www.nescpa.org today!
BNI members enjoy unparalleled business growth. As the world’s largest referral network, BNI passed over 8.8 million referrals last year, resulting in more than $11.2 billion in business. More importantly, our area members throughout NE, IA, SD and WY closed over $40 million in tracked business – creating a return of 700 times their investment - with much of that supporting local business. BNI Heartland is proud to say we have surpassed the $250 million mark of closed business locally over the last 10 years! Members also increase their exposure to like-minded professionals, gain referrals from a local and global network, and sharpen their networking skills with exclusive member resources. Belonging to BNI is like having dozens of salespeople working for you. BNI provides a proven structured system of giving and receiving business. It does this through an environment and support structure that cultivates more formal and deeper relationships with other professionals. Our members have the opportunity to substantially increase their business though BNI’s Core Values of Givers Gain, Building Relationships, LifeLong Learning, Traditions + Innovation, Positive Attitude, Accountability, and Recognition For more information about BNI Heartland, please contact our regional office at (402) 880-6311, email info@bniheartland.com, or visit our website, www.bniheartland.com. MARCH 2019 Strictly Business 49
The Cornhusker Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors continually strives to be the leading voice promoting free enterprise within the construction industry in Nebraska. The organization’s main goal is to provide member companies and their employees with an opportunity to succeed, winning work and delivering that work safely, ethically, and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which they work. Whether a large or small company, joining ABC provides value. ABC offers apprenticeship training through the NCCER Curriculum, continuing education courses, and opportunities for networking and showcasing project successes. Our mission affords us the opportunity to share the industry through student events to help build the workforce in Nebraska. For more information or to join ABC Cornhusker Chapter, contact Katie or Anne at (402) 477-4451 or email katieg@abcnebraska.org. You can also visit www.abcnebraska.org to find out more.
The Nebraska Hospital Association (NHA) is a statewide voluntary membership health care trade association representing Nebraska’s hospitals and health systems.
The Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the rebranding of its young professional group to the Sarpy Chamber Modern Professionals. The purpose and vision of the Sarpy Chamber Young Professional group had grown well beyond its original mission of helping young professional establish roots and grow networks in their communities. Professionals of every age have been utilizing the dynamic energy of the group to learn and grow, and the rebranding better reflects the group’s identity. The Sarpy Chamber Modern Professionals group is designed to support and strengthen you at pivotal moments in your professional life. Whether you’re starting a new career, settling into a new place, or beginning your journey, SC Modern Professionals meets you in your present to ignite your future. For more information on joining the SC Modern Professional Group, contact chamber@sarpychamber.org. Visit www.sarpychamber.org/ events to learn more about upcoming Modern Professional events.
Visit nebraskahospitals.org for more information about the NHA.
The Apartment Association of Nebraska (AAN) the local affiliate of the National Apartment Association (NAA). The NAA currently has over 170 affiliates and boasts over 8.7 million apartment homes globally. Founded in 2002, the Apartment Association of Greater Omaha and Lincoln was created by a group of property managers and owners with a vision to help create and maintain a high level of professionalism in the multifamily rental housing industry in the greater Nebraska area. On October 5, 2002, the AAGOL received its charter from the NAA. In 2014, the name was changed to the Apartment Association of Nebraska to better represent their membership. Their members include multifamily owners and management companies, apartment communities, and the supplier members who service this industry. In January of 2019, the AAN launched the Nebraska Maintenance Academy, a hands-on training academy for those wishing to secure a career in the multifamily industry as a maintenance technician. The first of its kind in Nebraska, NMA will offer vocational training to those most in need, including but not limited to non-college bound high school students, veterans, and any individual who desires a meaningful career change. The goal is to train 45 people per year at NO cost to the students and then to immediately place the students into careers. The mission of the Apartment Association of Nebraska is to support, inform, and connect the multifamily community through education, legislation advocacy, and professional networking. For more information about the Apartment Association of Nebraska and their upcoming events, be sure to visit www.aaneb.org. 50 Strictly Business MARCH 2019
The health care industry touches many aspects of public policy. The NHA monitors a broad spectrum of issues on behalf of its members. This year, the NHA was deeply involved with legislation affecting credentialing, provider payment models, workforce development, insurance, taxation and health care program funding. Public policy and advocacy priorities are driven by a vision that every Nebraskan has access to affordable, safe, high-quality health care. Through effective leadership, member participation and collaboration with policymakers and other partners, we seek to develop a unified voice to establish effective health care policy. We also provide members with trend and regulatory information, educational programming, communication, data reports and special services.
In today’s changing real estate industry, the one influential voice for the commercial building professional is the Building Owners and Managers Association of Omaha (BOMA Omaha). Formed on August 14, 1911, BOMA Omaha is a federated member of BOMA International, which was founded in 1907 as the National Association of Building Owners and Managers. BOMA International is a primary source of information on office building development, leasing, building operating costs, energy consumption patterns, local and national building codes, legislation, occupancy statistics, and technological developments. The mission is to help members improve property performance through education and advocacy. Membership in BOMA Omaha provides you with access to timely information, advanced notice of legislative and advocacy issues, extensive research, timely publications through BOMA International, and access to a variety of educational and networking opportunities. Membership dues are paid by calendar year. Local dues include access to the full range of resources offered by BOMA International. If you are interested in attending any of BOMA Omaha’s current events or would like information about membership, please contact bae@bomaomaha. org or go online to bomaomaha.org. The mission of the Papillion Community Foundation is to identify, develop, and support community programs that enhance the quality of life in Papillion. Like many Midwest cities, Papillion is a traditional community—a cozy downtown area, historic building, and hometown high schools with championship sports teams. This community, however, mixes the small town feeling with emerging high-technology and telemarketing jobs and mixes the farming community with the military community at the nearby Offutt Air Force Base. We are currently thrilled to be part of the Veteran’s Park project and Pantry for Our Patriots, both of which are community initiatives to support those who have served in the military. Right now, we are preparing for the 72nd Annual Papillion Days, a weekend-long celebration attended by almost 60,000 people each year. Papillion Days 2019 will be Thursday, June 13 through Sunday, June 16, with opening night on Wednesday, June 12. The Papillion Community Foundation aims to balance the various needs of the community by supporting projects which enhance the quality of life for those living in the community. Learn more online at www. papillionfoundation.org or call Laura Schwartz, executive director, at (402) 331-3917. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
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MARCH 2019 Strictly Business
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Omaha’s IT partner for more than 35 years
scantron.com/omaha scantron.com/omaha We’re a premier sponsor of Future OPS 2019, the We’re a premier sponsor of Future OPS 2019, the25th, tech conference for banking professionals, April th tech conference for banking professionals, April in Council Bluffs, IA. RSVP at futurebankops.com25 , in Council Bluffs, IA. RSVP at futurebankops.com
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I’ve formed a lasting relationship with Allen from Cornhusker Bank, who takes the time to understand my unique personal and business needs, and can help me map out a financial roadmap to get me to my goals. Matthew Klemke, O.D. President and Founder ViewPointe Vision
From left: Allen Chaffee and Matthew Klemke, O.D.
Serving the Omaha/Lincoln metroplex. Allen Chaffee, Omaha Market President Loan Production Office, 13340 California, Omaha CornhuskerBank.com • 402-779-1420
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Strictly Business MARCH 2019
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