Strictly Business Omaha - June 2021

OMAHA • JUNE 2021 TM

STRICTLYBUSINESSOMAHA.COM

JASON KUSLER TIM VANDERVORT

Inside Sales Rep/Marketing

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JEFF KILLEEN

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JASON KREIKEMEIER Inside Sales Manager

KEN CARLSON

Lead Systems Engineer/Trainer

• Senior Health • Commercial Remodeling

CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS

• Midwest Geriatrics • AOI Corporation • Energy Studio

AGO

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IN THIS ISSUE

Industry Leading Training.

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SHELLY SPENCER West Gate Bank

KRISTI BENNING Right at Home

JAMES MANN APRIL CAMPBELL Big BirgeStrictly Plumbing HOTWORX - Omaha JUNE 2021 Northwest

ALICIA STOERMER CLARK Seldin Company

TWILEA FLETCHER

Stonebrook Exterior 1 Business

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Call (402) 934-3891 or visit coxbusiness.com to switch today *Offer ends 8/31/21. Available to new commercial data subscribers (excluding gov’t agencies and schools) in Cox service areas. $59/mo includes Cox Business InternetSM 25 and IPC Select for months 1-6 and free self-install; $10 step-up in month 7. Rates subject to change after month 7 or if you cancel Auto Pay or Paperless Bill. Offer requires Auto Pay and Paperless Bill. Price excludes equipment, professional installation, construction, inside wiring, taxes, surcharges and other fees, unless indicated. Offer is nontransferable to a new service address. “No term agreement” means no specific term period requirement and no early termination fees. All Cox services are provided subject to Cox Business General Terms (including mandatory arbitration provisions), Acceptable Use Policy (including Cox’s right to terminate service for abuse of network), and other policies, which may be found at www.cox.com/aboutus/ policies.html. CB Internet: 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 or higher modem may be required, unless indicated. See www.cox.com/internetdisclosures for complete Cox Internet Disclosures. Voice: 15-seat maximum. IPC Select is limited to direct-dialed domestic calls and is not available for use with non-switched-circuit calling. Desktop app included; physical handsets may be purchased separately from Cox. Access to E911 may not be available during equipment or extended power outage. 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. 30-day satisfaction guarantee limited to refund of standard installation/activation fees and the first month’s recurring service and equipment fees (and equipment purchase fees if purchased from Cox) for the newly subscribed services only. Excludes all other costs and charges. Refund must be claimed within 30 days of service activation. Other restrictions apply. © 2021 Cox Communications Inc. All rights reserved.

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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

The Power of a Press Release When you open up Strictly Business, you'll likely flip to a page of our news section as it takes up the majority of the magazine. If you're a business owner or in a leadership position within your organization and you're NOT utilizing press releases for when you have an exciting announcement to share, I'm addressing this month's Letter from the President to you. It's time to stop missing out on such an easy and effective way to promote your company!

When I say exciting announcement, I mean everything from a milestone anniversary to bringing someone new onto your team. Other great examples of a newsworthy announcement include:

make an employee feel valued. It's something they can take to friends and family, point to, and say, "Hey, that's me!" A great example of one of our clients in Lincoln that does a wonderful job of this is Luxury Landscape (shout out to Ken and Jackie!). Whenever they bring on a new crew member, they tell us about it so we can run a press release to welcome them to the team. These are individuals who have probably never been featured in a magazine before, so it's a really cool opportunity to put them in the limelight. We also often hear from our clients that when they run a press release in Strictly Business, they'll get texts and calls from their loved ones and colleagues expressing congratulations. I can't tell you how many parents and grandparents have stopped by the office to pick up extra copies of the magazine.

I know that not every organization has someone on the team to carry out press writing. Many business “Press releases allow you to owners either don't have the time or they don't leverage the moves your business have the skill set. This is why so many businesses their partnership with us. We help them makes, big or small, to keep your appreciate turn their little things into big things by writing about audience captivated.” it and sharing it in our news section—in print and online. Our team touches base with all our clients each month to see if they have anything they could announce. Even if we don't hear back via email, we do our best to keep up with our clients online and on social media to see if they are posting about anything that could qualify as a newsworthy press release. If needed, our goal is to do as much of the legwork as possible before final approval from the client to make it an easy process on them.

• New website • Rebranding • Expansion • New location • New community partnership • Upcoming event/event recap • Receiving an award or recognition • Being selected to speak at an event • Completing a training/workshop • Introducing a new product or service • and much more!

If your business or organization did any of these things in the past year, ask yourself what you did to let the community know. These are significant events, and they should be celebrated as such! That's what a press release helps accomplish. Even if you don't feel like something is that big of a deal, you can still leverage most of the moves you make to keep your audience captivated.

In my opinion, personnel announcements especially bring value to a company. Not only do they connect faces with company names, they

When you partner with Strictly Business, you are partnering with a team that makes it our job to celebrate you and your team. I think that makes us pretty unique as an advertising tool. Our advertisers get a free press release each month as a part of their campaign, and the professional writing is free as well. We publish press releases for our clients in print, online on our website, and on the major social media channels. This is how we take our client's marketing dollar as far as it can go.

Let Strictly Business 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

27 Nonprofit 32 Health

SPOTLIGHTS 1 Midwest Geriatrics 38 AOI Corporation 48 Energy Studio

FEATURE STORIES 33 Senior Health 39 Commercial Remodeling 4

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Hannah

Diane

Dillon

PRODUCTION TEAM: Editor/Operations Hannah Hundley - Editor@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Writer Diane Gumaer - Office@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Art Director Dillon Crawford - Design@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com SALES TEAM: President/Sales Paige Zutavern - Paige@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.

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It’s been 15 years since Control Depot (controldepotinc.com) opened its doors as the first dedicated building automation controls distributor in our area. Since that time, we’ve grown and evolved into the premier controls distributor in the Midwest and a leader in building technology solutions. You may ask…”What is building automation?” Simply put, a building automation system provides control of the HVAC, lighting, and safety systems in a building.

The more familiar terms for many are “Smart Building” or “Smart Home” and it is also synonymous with the term Internet of Things (IoT). Control Depot provides innovative, cost-effective solutions and designs across the entire spectrum of building types in both the commercial and residential markets. Whether your needs are basic replacement components or a fully-integrated solution, our team provides the expertise, technologies, and support you need to get the job done right. Our overall goal is to provide you with systems that ensure comfort, provide safety, enhance your overall productivity, and save you energy and money through efficiency.

That is what you can expect when working with Control Depot.

Control Depot partners with the leading suppliers of building technologies in order to provide our customers the best products available. As a Honeywell Authorized Systems Distributor, Control Depot offers a full line of Honeywell commercial and residential products to fulfill any HVAC controls or security needs. From a simple residential thermostat to a complex web-based building automation system, we support and stock the Honeywell parts you need. As a Belimo Platinum Distributor, Control Depot carries a complete line of Belimo actuators, valves, and sensors. Belimo is a global leader in the commercial HVAC components market with a strong commitment to quality and value in all of their product offerings. In 2017, Control Depot was named the Honeywell Analytics “Manning” Refrigeration gas detection National Master Distributor.

This distinction comes as a result of Control Depot’s position in the refrigeration gas detection market on a national level due to the addition of experts in this particular area. The large amount of on-hand stock, training, and service offerings, along with 40+ years of industry experience, are all reasons why Control Depot is excelling in the refrigeration gas detection market. In addition, Control Depot offers top quality products from suppliers such as EasyIO, Viconics, Tridium, Honeywell Analytics (including BW and Rae), Lutron, ACI, Siemens, eGauge, Millenial Net, and many, many more.

In 2016, Control Depot University was launched with the focused intent of providing high-quality HVAC controls education. We understand that in the controls industry, a company’s employees are its greatest asset. As such, we offer many distinctive and specialized training classes that allow our contractor partners to create a technically strong and more productive group of employees. Control Depot has partnered with Tridium, Honeywell Analytics, and EasyIO to become authorized training centers for their specific products. We also host a wide range of product-specific classes, from controllers to VFDs, and have several general HVAC classes available as well.

At Control Depot, our customer base consists of Controls contractors, Mechanical and Electrical contractors, and Institutional end-users. Control Depot’s overriding purpose is to help our clients create comfortable, efficient, and safe building environments. Our team of qualified and experienced employees strives to provide a personal touch to each customer by combining a friendly and knowledgeable store experience with an inventory that rivals the largest retailers. At Control Depot, we don’t just sell you products, we sell you solutions. Our customer base is constantly growing and diversifying as customers locally, regionally, and nationally experience the high level of personalized service our customers receive at Control Depot.

ControlDepotInc.com | 402.934.0078 9304 G Ct, Omaha, NE 68127

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BUSINESS NEWS

Locations: Menard's Parking Lot 3600 24th Street Fremont NE, 68025

Stalnaker Becker & Buresh Join McGill Gotsdiner Workman & Lepp, P.C., L.L.O.

Casey's Parking Lot 2028 Kellie Drive Blair, NE 68008

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Michelle Luschen 402-917-2375 sweetpfreshmarket@gmail.com

Charter Title & Escrow Creates a Hispanic Division to Better Serve Customers in Omaha Charter Title & E s c row, a p ro u d Nebraska real estate title company with multiple locations in the state, is excited to announce the formation of a Hispanic Division to further assist Spanish-speaking customers, as well as the Realtors and loan officers who often work with this population.

“Omaha and communities across the state continue to become more diverse, and we are happy to invest in the people and the resources it takes to best serve all our customers now and in the future,” said Angela Miller of Charter Title. “We’re excited to be the ones to offer this great resource to the community.”

Hispanics make up the fastest growing demographic in the Omaha area, which is one of the drivers of this new service offering. While it is being introduced in the Omaha market first, the plan is to grow the division into a multi-person effort throughout the Charter Title footprint to help reach more customers.

Leading this division is Itzel Gonzalez, who joined the Charter Title team in November. Gonzalez moved to Omaha as a teenager so her understanding of many of her Hispanic customers goes beyond simply being able to speak and write the language.

“I can do more than just translate. I lived in Mexico for much of my early life. I know the culture and how a lot of these customers and families will be feeling as they go through the process of buying or selling a home,” Gonzalez said. “I take pride in working with people to make sure they understand the title and closing process so it can be part of a joyous milestone for them.”

Gonzalez has reached out to area real estate professionals during the last few months about what is on the horizon and shared the excitement about the new Charter Title Division. Though Gonzalez works out of the company’s Omaha office, she will be traveling to other offices as she works to market and grow her team in the near future.

“I love building these relationships and getting to know the local real estate community,” she said. “It’s my favorite part of the job. My two messages to people are that I’m excited to officially launch this new venture and my future team will always do what it takes to provide excellent service as part of the mission of Charter Title.”

Charter Title & Escrow is a member of the American Land Title Association and the Nebraska Land Title Association. It is a locallyowned title company with two offices in Lincoln, as well as locations in Omaha, Beatrice, Columbus, Hastings, Plattsmouth, and Nebraska City.

Its experienced team takes pride in having their customers’ backs when it comes to residential, commercial, or new construction transactions.

To learn more about Charter Title, visit www.charter-title.net.

6 Strictly Business JUNE 2021

Effective May 3, 2021, Stalnaker Becker & Buresh has integrated their practice with McGill Gotsdiner Wor kman & Lepp, P.C., L.L.O. Aimee Cizek and John Stalnaker will be joining McGill as Shareholders, and Tom Stalnaker and Bob Becker Pictured (L-R): John Stalnaker, Tom will be joining as Of Counsel. Stalnaker Becker Stalnaker, Aimee Cizek, and Bob Becker. & Buresh is a long-standing and highly regarded Omaha law firm. The firm was founded in 1921 and will continue its tradition of excellence and personal service at McGill. The integration will provide a broader range and depth of legal services to clients.

Tom Stalnaker served as a Nebraska Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Trustee for over 30 years. In addition to his substantial bankruptcy experience, Tom has significant experience in business law, real estate, construction and estate planning. Tom graduated from Stanford University in 1968 and immediately joined Stalnaker, Becker & Buresh, which at the time was Swarr, May, Royce, Smith, Andersen & Ross.

Bob Becker has served as legal counsel to clients in business, construction, and real estate for nearly 50 years. After graduating from Creighton University School of Law in 1969 and then serving four years as an Assistant U.S. Attorney, Bob joined Stalnaker, Becker & Buresh. Aimee Cizek graduated from Creighton University School of Law in 2003 and is a member of the Nebraska State Bar Association, Iowa State Bar Association, and Omaha Bar Association. Before joining Stalnaker, Becker & Buresh in 2007, Aimee served as a prosecutor in the Douglas County Attorney’s Office. In addition to her current civil litigation practice, Aimee advises construction companies and individual clients in real estate disputes and litigation. Aimee also represents clients in general corporate matters, sales and acquisitions of businesses, real estate, estate planning, and probate. These diverse practice areas enable her to work with clients to develop multigenerational business and estate plans.

John Stalnaker graduated from Chicago Kent College of Law in 2003 and is a member of the Nebraska State Bar Association and Omaha Bar Association. He was appointed in 2018 as a Nebraska Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Trustee. In addition to bankruptcy trustee work, John has substantial experience in real estate law, including title insurance, land development, purchase agreements, and construction. He also practices in general corporate law and particularly enjoys helping clients grow and build their businesses.

McGill focuses on the practice areas of corporate and business law; real estate; estate planning, trusts, and probate; banking and finance; employment; health care law; mergers and acquisitions; nonprofit and tax-exempt entities and creditors’ rights. McGill also has a sophisticated commercial litigation practice with significant experience in mediation and arbitration. The attorneys’ experience of Stalnaker Becker will add depth in corporate and business law, real estate, title insurance, and construction law. Based out of Omaha, McGill, Gotsdiner, Workman & Lepp, P.C., L.L.O. has been serving commercial enterprises and individual clients in a broad civil practice in the Midwest since 1975. The keystones of the firm’s culture, integrity, expertise, and compassion, form the foundation for long-term client relationships and drive high-quality professional services. More information about the firm can be found at www.mgwl.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Christenson Cleaning & Restoration Hosts Ribbon Cutting with Omaha Chamber Christenson Cleaning & Restoration celebrated their recently formed partnership with the Greater Omaha Chamber with a ribboncutting ceremony on April 22. With plans to open up a physical location in Omaha in the near future, Christenson Cleaning is currently operating out of their Hastings office. Owner Charlie Christenson was joined by his team—Mark Omtvedt, sales; Jose Reyes, account manager in Omaha; and Jennifer Suminski, accounting specialist—as he proudly cut the ribbon.

Christenson Cleaning & Restoration is a family owned and operated business that serves clients all over Central Nebraska. Eric and Cindy Christenson founded the company in 1983, and Charlie too, was handed over the reins six years ago. The company currently staffs about 75 employees. Services include carpet cleaning, furniture cleaning, pet odor and stain removal, rug cleaning, water damage repair, mold remediation, and commercial janitorial cleaning. To book services, call Christenson Cleaning at (402) 463-7622 or visit www.christensonclean.com.

B & K’s ExSeptional Ones Academy Enjoys Growth of Family, Team, and Reputation

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B & K’s ExSeptional Ones Academy, a family-owned childhood education center at 12717 S 28th Ave. in Bellevue, is celebrating personal and professional growth in every direction. Founders Brian and Keana SeptMatthews, were recently blessed with the arrival of a new grandbaby and are also growing their B & K’s team. The couple is looking to bring eager instructors into their coteaching environment, where each teacher’s ideas are in the room collectively, as opposed to just one person carrying out a lesson plan.

This maximizes the benefit of having different personalities in the classroom. B & K's is linking up with Bellevue East and Bellevue West high schools to reach students interested in coming on part-time or for the summer to get them experience in the field.

FCC Environmental Services Announces $15M Expansion of Contracts in Omaha and Dallas

What’s more, B & K’s ExSeptional Ones Academy is becoming a household name in the community. They have received their Better Business Bureau (BBB) certification and just became a trusted partner of the military with mybaseguide.com. They will now be listed as a childcare resource for military families or individuals moving to the Offutt Air Force Base, thanks to a successful vetting process for qualification. B & K’s ExSeptional Ones Academy is already just a couple stars away from a 5-star rating online—two to three more reviews will get them there.

“FCC Environmental Services continues to provide exceptional service to our communities, as evidenced by not only these contract extensions but expansions,” said CEO Inigo Sanz. “We’re proud of our top-notch workforce and its service record.”

B & K’s ExSeptional Ones Academy is still accepting kids for summer classes. There are a few spots left for children ages 6 weeks to 13 years. They teach both Montessori practical application and traditional early childhood learning through play. Brian and Keana are passionate about making a difference in the lives of children in lower socioeconomic sectors of the community. To get your child signed up, visit Facebook (@ExSeptionalones) or contact (531) 365-6806 / exseptionalconsultingbiz@gmail.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

FCC Environmental Services announced the renewal and expansion of three key municipal contracts in the Omaha and Dallas areas, totaling $15 million. The agreements have been extended through 2024. Contracts were signed for both Omaha, solid waste collection and disposal, and the City of Mesquite, TX extended the recycling services contract, totaling $500,000. The contract for transportation and processing of recyclables for the City of Garland, TX expanded to now include recycling collection and processing, worth about $14.5 million.

Recyclable materials collected and bundled in Mesquite sell as source material to local companies, such as Smurfit Kappa, WestRock, Georgia-Pacific Corp., or International Paper.

“Our recyclable materials continue to have strong market value,” said Andrea Rodriguez-Pinero, director of U.S. recycling.

FCC Environmental Services offers award-winning solid waste solutions with proven investments in clean technologies. The company provides trash and recycling services for more than 8.5 million Americans. With a majority of CNG-fueled fleet, they service more than 25 municipal contracts and thousands of commercial accounts.

Their story of sustainable innovations began more than 120 years ago. Learn more at www.fccenvironmental.com.

JUNE 2021 Strictly Business 7

BUSINESS NEWS United Services Design + Build Celebrates 55 Years in Business, Offers Discount

Dreamy Displays Offers First Champagne Wall Available to Rent in Nebraska

United Services Design + Build is proud to be celebrating 55 years in business. As a way to thank their customers, United Services is taking $550 off of a purchase of a full house siding replacement through August 31.

Allen Passer founded United Ser vices in 1966 as a Founder Allen Passer and replacement siding company.

Owner Mark Passer Mark Passer, Allen’s son, took over the family business in 2008 and is proud to have his sister Sheri Dietrich also on staff today.

As a longstanding member of the Omaha community, United Services Design + Build is committed to providing homeowners quality home improvements. They help Omaha-area homeowners keep their homes beautiful and well-maintained. Their exterior services, such as roofing, painting, siding, and windows, improve curb appeal while keeping the home protected from the elements.

On the interior, United Services creates kitchens and bathrooms that are functional and beautiful to live in. Their goal on every project is to provide homeowners peace of mind service, and they are proud of their A+ BBB rating, five star reviews, and Best of Omaha recognition. To learn more, visit unitedservicesohi.com or contact Mark at (402) 572-1144 / info@unitedservicesohi.com.

Dreamy Displays, a full-ser vice creative design studio that specializes in elevating events through upscale displays and backdrops, is excited to offer the first champagne wall in Nebraska that is available to rent. Not only does this feature piece provide guests with delicious, easy-to-grab bubbly, but it is also an amazing photo op! Other unique rentables by Dreamy Displays include a flower wall, donut wall, and shimmering sequin wall. They also have escort card displays, dessert displays, beautiful photo backdrops, Photo by The Mullers Photo Co. and much more. All of these products can be customized with signage, florals, and other materials to maintain a cohesive look with event branding.

Owner Brittany Thomas has always had a creative mind, doing DIY projects in her free time. This is why she founded Dreamy Displays in February 2020. Her team includes a designer and two fabricators. Their expertise combined allows the business to come alongside clients to turn their dreamy details into an exceptional display. There is nothing else like Dreamy Displays in Omaha. In the future, Brittany hopes to find a space with enough square footage to utilize as a showroom and host fun events.

Partner with Dreamy Designs to doll up your next wedding, birthday, corporate event, or celebration of any sort. To see the full inventory, go online to www.dreamydisplays.com or check out the Facebook and Instagram pages (@dreamydisplays). Questions can be directed to info@dreamydisplays.com.

Sarpy Chamber Launches Small Business Support Program to Help Local Companies The Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the creation of its Small Business Support Program. Having been in constant connection with the businesses in the community, the Sarpy Chamber knows the past year has been a struggle for many small businesses, and they were fortunate enough to give hundreds of thousands of dollars in grants to small businesses in 2020. Today, businesses need resources beyond money, as the challenges of 2020 left many with limited marketing funds and distance in their relationships to their customers and peers. The Small Business Support Program is designed to provide access to the many marketing, education, and networking opportunities that come with Sarpy Chamber membership.

Sponsors of this program will give Sarpy County small businesses a one-year Sarpy Chamber membership to boost them through this pandemic until business is back on track. The Chamber is grateful to PayPal and Facebook for stepping up as sponsors to help small businesses build back their networking, education, and advocacy resources as Sarpy Chamber members.

Applications for small businesses interested in taking advantage of Sarpy Chamber memberships through this program are open and can be found at sarpychamber.org/small-business-support. Eligible businesses must be based in Sarpy County and have 25 or fewer employees. Businesses interested in joining the Small Business Support program as a sponsor can contact Sarpy Chamber President Karen Gibler at president@sarpychamber.org.

For more information about the Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce, visit sarpychamber.org or call (402) 339-3050.

8 Strictly Business JUNE 2021

Smokin’ Oak Wood-Fired Pizza & Taproom Opens First Nebraska Location in Midtown Smokin’ Oak Wood-Fired Pizza & Taproom—the fastest growing wood-fired pizza franchise in the U.S.—has opened its first Nebraska location at 220 S 31st Ave. in Midtown Crossing. A grand opening celebration took place the week of May 24 with a ribbon cutting conducted by the Greater Omaha Chamber.

Smokin’ Oak is owned and operated by Franchise Owners Dan and Maribeth Yaksich, Matt Jaksha, and John and Deb Schneider. The restaurant features a full menu of wood-fired pizzas, sandwiches, salads, starters, and even desserts. The oven, fueled by oak wood, gets to about 900 degrees and cooks pizzas in about two minutes. The brand delivers an enjoyable pizza experience through the use of its open-plan kitchen, which allows customers to be able to customize and watch their pizzas being made right in front of them. The Taproom features a self-serve tap wall featuring beer, wine, and mixed drinks. To use the taproom, a guest will give a credit card to the cashier, be provided with an RFID enabled bracelet, and then be free to explore the tap wall.

Smokin’ Oak Wood-Fired Pizza & Taproom is perfect for those that need a quick lunch, but with the addition of the Taproom, it’s great for those that want to linger and take advantage of all that the self-serve tap wall has to offer. For more information, please visit www.smokinoakpizza.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Cornhusker Bank Celebrates One-Year at Omaha Location Cornhusker Bank celebrated the first anniversary of the 11102 Blondo St. branch in Omaha on April 29, 2021.

Since the COVID pandemic had delayed a grand opening celebration a year ago, the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce performed a ribbon cutting for Cornhusker Bank and Prchal Petersen Group, LLC, who owns the building the bank is in. Bank President/CEO, Barry Lockard, expressed the bank’s commitment to serving the Omaha community; and Allen Chaffee, Omaha Market President, cited the importance of having a trusted relationship with a local bank than understands the market thoroughly. Mr. Chaffee remarked, “No matter what your needs, Cornhusker Bank’s team is here to react and deliver quality solutions you can count on.”

The celebration featured The Stephen Center being on hand to collect shoes for the Bank’s One Day Without Shoes event. One Day Without Shoes collects used and new shoes annually for the benefit of the Stephen Center. Over 3,000 pairs of shoes and $450 in monetary donations have been given to the Center in the last two years to help provide footwear to those who need it in the Omaha community.

Cornhusker Bank has served the local community for 117 years displaying Nebraska values, stability, soundness and a commitment to its customers, associates and community. For more information, visit www.CornhuskerBank.com.

Millard Business Association Presents 8th Annual Ribstock BBQ Festival on July 24 The annual Ribstock BBQ Festival was created as a fundraising event to support charitable projects in our community, and Millard Business Association (MBA) announced that this year’s event will be on July 24, from noon to 10 p.m. at Stinson Park, 2232 S 64th St. Admission is $5 for adults 21 and over (kids free), with 100% of the admission going to the Food Bank for the Heartland. Twelve local BBQ vendors, beer, soda, water, and other beverages will be available for purchase at the event, plus entertainment including music

by Lemon Fresh Day, a photo booth by FotoFunSpot, and a cornhole tournament sponsored by MBA’s Young Professionals.

Ribstock continues the theme of business, community, and BBQ. Many people in the community and Millard Business Association that have contributed to this event, and every year it continues to grow. At the same time, more children, families, seniors, and veterans than ever before are experiencing food insecurity—some for the first time, due to the pandemic. In 2020, the Food Bank distributed over 32 million meals—10 million more than in 2019.

Funds raised from Ribstock will enable the Food Bank to provide critical meals to families facing hunger in Nebraska and western Iowa. Ribstock has also generated thousands of dollars for Project Wee Care and The MBA Scholarship Fund.

For more information about the Millard Business Association, visit millardbusinessassociation.org. For details about Ribstock, go to ribstockbbq.com or Facebook (@ribstockbbq). Stay tuned for the launch of their web series, The Saucy Details, with MoValley Productions, which launches on Facebook June 2. For sponsorship or vending opportunities, email Ribstock2018@gmail.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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AOI Celebrates Return of Nelson Coconut Lounge Chairs, Updated by Herman Miller Even as some of the vintage Coconut chairs designed by George Nelson in 1955 remain artistic delights in the homes of perceptive collectors, AOI Corporation is celebrating Herman Miller’s relaunch of the original Nelson Coconut lounge chairs in a more sustainable shell material and more extensive upholstery options. As a certified Herman Miller dealer, AOI is offering the iconic midcentury chairs in a selection of leather or fabric solid colors, as well as sophisticated patterns, and a frame of white or chrome. Whatever combination you choose, you and your friends and family will love these eye-catching conversation pieces, which also allow for effortless comfort and repositioning.

The Coconut Chair is completely true to George Nelson's original design, materials, and detailing. With the unique shell design, he accomplished his goal of providing comfortable and attractive lounge seating that provides freedom of movement so that people can sit in just about any position they choose. This midcentury furniture icon has a simple, striking shape, and it is also a wonderfully comfortable place to unwind at home or in your private office or lounge. While simple, it provides a fluidity that delivers a sense of eloquence, even amid its unique angularity.

AOI Corporation works with clients that include everything from small start-ups to Fortune 500 corporations. They provide solutions for construction, furniture, and prefabricated interiors. For more information, visit aoicorp.com or contact Becky Costello at (402) 896-5520 or rcostello@aoicorp.com.

JUNE 2021 Strictly Business 9

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BUSINESS NEWS Kros Strain Brewing Company to Open New Taproom in Millwork Commons Owners of Kros Strain Brewing Company, Bobby Kros and Scott Strain, a n n o u n c e d t h ey w i l l open a second taproom in the Millwork Commons neighborhood this summer.

Kros Strain will join Archetype Coffee, Clean Slate Food Co., and hutch, all of which are building out spaces on the first floor of the historic Ashton building located at 1229 Millwork Ave. The space will also feature a colorful mural by local artist norm4eva. norm4eva painted a large-scale mural in Kros Strain’s La Vista location, and she was also a collaborator on The Keeper of Stories shipping container mural at 12th and Izard St. in Millwork Commons. In addition to the retail spaces on the first floor of the Ashton building, construction is also underway on the HELLO Apartments building in partnership with Bluestone Development, and crews have started working on a 1.2-acre park between the Ashton and Mastercraft buildings. The park will be completed later this year, and the apartments in the fall of 2022.

Headquartered in La Vista, Kros Strain Brewing Company believes beer should never be boring. Known for its Fairy Nectar IPA, Kros Strain is always looking for new beers to brew while paying respect and homage to familiar styles that past generations have fallen in love with. Kros Strain products are available in bars and grocery stores across Nebraska, Iowa, and South Dakota and at their La Vista taproom. Kros Strain is a certified independent craft brewer by the Brewers Association and has won numerous awards for its beers. For more information, please visit www.krosstrainbrewing.com.

Meza Gardens and Design to Celebrate Fifth Anniversary with Giveaway July 5

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This July, Meza Gardens and Design will begin its fifth year of service to metro area customers by giving away a free residential consultation with onsite recommendations. Owneroperators Chris and Marcelino Meza, who are also husband and wife, opened their landscape design-build business in 2016. Chris received her degree in landscape architecture from Iowa State University and has more than 20 years of design-build experience in the Omaha metro. Marcelino, who’s been working in the landscape industry for two decades, specializes in installing hardscapes and water features.

“We’re small enough to give our customers the attention they deserve and large enough to handle complex projects,” Chris said. “We consider what you like, what you want, and what your budget is, then come up with a plan to make it happen. If you love purple, we’ll make sure your design reflects it.”

The company also offers professional landscape maintenance services if you like what you have but don’t want to or don’t know how to maintain it.

To enter the giveaway for a free residential consultation, send an email to hello@mezagardensanddesign.com before July 1. Use “bring joy to my outdoors” in the subject line, and briefly describe your landscaping dilemma. All emails will be entered in the drawing.

The winner will be announced on Facebook (@mezagardens) July 5.

Meza Gardens and Design is a female and minority owned landscape design-build company. For more information, visit www. mezagardensanddesign.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Ribbon Cutting Held for Heirloom Fine Foods to Celebrate Grand Opening On April 27—which was very fittingly also Earth Day—Heirloom Fine Foods hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony in conjunction with the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the grand opening of their commercial kitchen and tasting room at 325 N 72nd St., STE 200. Owners Shelley ElsonRoza and Tony Roza had opened the event space last August but had to postpone festivities due to COVID. This served as the Chamber’s first in-person ribbon cutting since the start of the pandemic. Shelley and Tony look forward to continuing to use their catering menu and hosting events such as cooking classes and holiday parties. The space can hold dinner parties and small events up to 40 people inside and 50 people in the garden, which is an area in the back that offers beautiful outdoor dining and a glimpse at the Roza’s homegrown edible flowers and heirloom vegetation. Holiday parties are already booking up fast so don't dillydally—reserve Heriloom today!

Heirloom Fine Foods is a values-based organization that believes in supporting healthy lifestyles, supporting the local food system and environment, and celebrating love and passion for food with clients and community. Their mission is to reconnect the Omaha community with healthy locally sourced, organic foods alongside a professional service, positive attitude, and old-fashioned integrity that creates a thoughtful and warm experience for all their guests. Book your event today! Call (402) 378-2784, email Shelley@heirloomff.com, or go online to www.heirloomff.com for more details.

Spreetail Offers New Remote Work Options, Expands Office, Brings 200+ Jobs to Omaha Spreetail's growth is another economic development success story for Nebraska—helping the region attract and retain talent while contributing to the area's vibrant economy. The company will continue to hire and bring talent to Nebraska in 2021, estimating 50+ families will relocate to Nebraska this year for Spreetail's 200+ open Omaha jobs. Spreetail offers flexible and remote work from home options on Fridays and Monday and supplies its growing talent pool with home office equipment. Tech employees can be 100% remote. In addition, the Omaha office will expand by 35,000 square feet.

The rapid growth of Spreetail is due, in part, to shifting online buying habits, accelerating the e-commerce industry's growth. Spreetail was fortunate to experience a 90% increase in sales last year and expects another 50% increase this year.

Spreetail is an online super-seller of durable home goods. It partners with national, regional and local retailers to sells thousands of products online, filling and shipping nearly 10 million orders annually from its warehouses. It owns six warehouses, called Fulfillment Centers, which occupy the space of 40 football fields in a half-dozen states, from Nevada to Pennsylvania. It sells more than 25,000 products from more than 1,000 retailers. Learn more about the company and job openings at wearespreetail.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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MCC Partners with NeighborWorks to Address Local Housing Needs Metropolitan Comm unity College (MCC) has partnered with NeighborWorks Home Solutions for the College’s 2022 capstone project, an effor t that brings students into the lab to build a house that will be placed in the community after completion. The partnership is an opportunity to provide funding resources and community development through service learning to help address affordable housing needs.

NeighborWorks® Home Solutions will furnish direct funding support for MCC’s Capstone service-learning project on and off campus, supply administrative project management, select and obtain a parcel for the final project designation, sale of the single-family dwelling, and cultivate the significance of nonprofit work with affordable housing development through interactions with students and staff.

“The purpose of our partnership is to enhance the community college’s mission of providing pathways to postsecondary credentials and innovative instructional models that have a labor market value for learners,” said David Hazelwood, COO of NeighborWorks Home Solutions. “This partnership allows MCC to focus on what it does best, educate and prepare students for the job market as lifelong learners. The students are perhaps the partnership’s biggest beneficiaries. This experience will cultivate our future construction industry workforce and leaders. We are excited to take part in this opportunity and look forward to our engagement. Further, NWHS finds significant value with this collaboration to assist in filling the labor shortage in the construction industry.”

MCC construction and trade students have completed previous homes through the capstone project, placing homes in the North Omaha community. The capstone project uses a large two-story tall lab inside the Construction Education Center on the College’s Fort Omaha Campus.

Metropolitan Community College, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is a comprehensive, public community college that offers affordable, quality education to all residents of Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy, and Washington counties. Founded in 1974, MCC has the largest enrollment out of six community colleges in Nebraska and is the second largest postsecondary institution in the state. MCC serves more than 40,000 unique credit and noncredit students. To learn more, visit www.mccneb.edu.

JUNE 2021 Strictly Business 11

BUSINESS NEWS Sugar P’s Produce Open for the Season, Second Location in Fremont is Added

Ribbon Cutting Held to Welcome redbox+, New Roll-Off Company to Omaha

If you love farm-to-table fresh fruits and vegetables, you’ll be thrilled to know that Sugar P’s Produce stand in the Casey’s parking lot at 2028 Kellie Drive in Blair is open for the season! What’s more, they have added a second location in Fremont, in the Menard’s parking lot at 3600 24th St. Open as of May 29 through November 1, you’ll find everything from Black Diamond watermelons to juicy sweet corn, farm-fresh tomatoes, jalapenos, green, orange, and red bell peppers, green beans, potatoes, avocados, strawberries, custom-crafted botanical High Teas, All About Bee’s flavored and creamed honeys, and so much more!

Regaled for fantastic customer service including sharing information about where their products come from, exceptional produce, and tremendous value, Sugar P’s reviews give the business five out of five stars. Sugar P’s Produce stands are open from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Mondays and from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays. For more information, visit Sugar P’s Produce Stand on Facebook (@MichelleLuschens – Farmers Market) or call Michelle at (402) 917-2375.

On May 13, redbox+ of Omaha was joined by the Greater Omaha Chamber for an official ribbon cutting to celebrate the launch of services in the metropolitan area. The new premier roll-off container company—with the only combination portable toilet and dumpster roll-off boxes available—is a franchise that is locally owned by Mark Fredrickson. He plans to serve the Omaha, Lincoln, and Council Bluffs area at both commercial and residential construction sites. Mark was joined at the event by Manager Steve Caffery, who helped him cut the ribbon, along with friends, family, and Chamber representatives.

The redbox+ team will work with homeowners, roofers, commercial contractors, and fire and water remediation contractors. There is also easy rental scheduling with redbox+. Make a simple call, send a quick text, or use the contractors’ app. The routing component of the company’s software lets them control scheduling to ensure a 24-hour turnaround time. redbox+ of Omaha's bright red powder-coated containers are manufactured in the U.S. and are meticulously designed for durability.

They come in 20- and 30-yard sizes, both standard and elite, which are ideal for larger projects. The elite containers include two porta potties, securely mounted onto the front of the container, ensuring they can’t be tipped over or stolen. Learn more at www.redboxplus.com/omaha or contact Mark at (402) 205-3105 / mfredrickson@redboxplus.com.

365DailyHustle Owner Karissa Adkins Airs Her Story to Help Other Women Boss Up 365DailyHustle Founder and Health and Fitness Expert Karissa Adkins was inspired by life experiences—including c hildhood trauma, toxic relationships, obesity, divorce, and a crippling autoimmune disease—to launch her own coaching business three years ago. In 2021, she has helped her 87th client lose weight and “BossUp” her life, and recently reflected on her growth, her clients’ growth, and the growth of her business to encourage other women to ditch the excuses, BossUp, lose weight, and take control of their lives.

Karissa is a mother, wife, community supporter, and a champion for women's health! After BossingUp in her own life, Karissa uses her master-level life, health, and mindset coaching and personal-training certifications to help professional women lose weight, create work/life balance, and achieve their dreams. Her system clearly works, given that she has helped nearly 90 clients reach their goals, co-authored two Amazon bestseller books, launched and hosts a weekly radio podcast, hired two employees, was a motivational speaker for the International Global Speaker Conference, hit her first $15,000 month as a paid coach, and was featured on major networks including ABC, NBC, CBS, News Digest, USA Today, Fox News, and the Women’s Innovators Radio Show, among others! In the June 2021 Entrepreneurs Herald, she is listed among the Top 20 Life Coaches for the year.

The stories of Karissa’s journey to happy and healthy now are the model for other women who want to Reclaim Your Best Life, the title of her flagship 10-week program to success. She is also competing for the title of Ms. Health and Fitness 2021 for HERS magazine (vote on her Facebook page @365DailyHustle). For more information about 365DailyHustle or Karissa’s coaching programs, speaking opportunities, free weight-loss training video, and how she can help you BossUp, get healthy, and thrive in all areas of your life, visit her brand-new website at 365DailyHustle. com or call her at (402) 880-2142!

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NHTSA and NESC: Get Up to Speed on Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) partnered with the Nebraska Safety Council (NESC) to remind all motorists to “Get Up to Speed on Motorcycles” during Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. NHTSA has designed this campaign to help motorists understand standard motorcycle driving behaviors and learn how to drive safely around motorcycles on our roadways. The campaign brings drivers up to speed by highlighting simple things drivers can do to increase the safety of their two-wheeled friends who have very little protection in the event of a crash.

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month coincides with the early summer months, as motorcyclists begin to ride more frequently. Unfortunately, motorcyclists are significantly overrepresented in traffic crashes and fatalities each year. In fact, per vehicle mile traveled, motorcyclists are about 29 times more likely than passenger-vehicle occupants to die in a motor vehicle crash and are four times more likely to be injured. It is essential that vehicle drivers pay complete attention on the roads because even the smallest momentary lapse in a vehicle driver’s awareness can result in the death of an unseen motorcyclist.

The Nebraska Safety Council offers a three-day motorcycle training course to give motorcyclists the classroom education and skills practice on an outdoor motorcycle range to prepare them for the road. Upon completion of this course, the rider will receive the “M” endorsement on their driver’s license. Courses are available for registration JuneSeptember, so sign up today! For more information on motorcycle safety, visit www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/motorcycles. To register for the NESC Basic Motorcycle Training Course, visit nesafetycouncil.org/index.php/ driving/motorcycle-training. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Heartland International Holds Metal Roofing and Advanced Roofing Systems Trainings Heartland International invites current and aspiring roofing contractors to learn more about Conklin Roofing Systems at the upcoming Metal Roofing and Advanced Roofing Systems Training seminars on tap in Kansas City in June. The one-day Metal Roofing System Training will cover not only the application process of a Conklin MR® System but also will provide an overview about how to get started as a Conklin contractor and introduce strategies for making sales calls, quoting a roof, presenting proposals, and working with building owners.

The next Metal Roofing System Training program takes place on June 10.

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The three-day Advanced Roofing Systems Training provides a more in-depth coverage of Conklin Roofing Systems and gives contractors a chance to participate in a hands-on construction of the systems using industry-standard tools and materials. Participants in this training must have completed a one-day Metal Roofing System Training program as a pre-qualification for this advanced program. Check out the next Advanced Roofing Systems Training program June 2-4.

For more information about the Heartland International, Inc. training programs, please visit thesecureroof.com.

NDOL Offers Support for Businesses Trying to Hire, Via Statewide Job-Center Network Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL) is supporting businesses in need of qualified employees via a statewide network of job centers available to assist employers in a variety of areas. Business service representatives are connected to local workforce development partners including government agencies such as the Department of Economic Development, local community colleges, and area nonprofits. NEworks. nebraska.gov is the state’s largest, most comprehensive online job database. Nebraska businesses of every size and industry use NEworks to connect with thousands of highly qualified job seekers, including a large bank of professionals, high-skilled individuals, and veterans.

If you are an employer looking to make direct connections with the local talent pool, NDOL’s business services representatives can work with you to coordinate job fairs and hiring events. The Nebraska Workforce System also has several programs to diversify and upskill an employer’s workforce. Businesses can receive a substantial wage subsidy for hiring and training individuals from a variety of targeted populations. Worker Training Grants can help upskill the current workforce in any area or program that increases retention, upward mobility, and productivity.

NDOL, in partnership with the United States Department of Labor (USDOL), works to expand a variety of Registered Apprenticeship opportunities throughout the state. In addition, employers can develop a pre-apprenticeship with NDOL to engage and excite students through career exploration. What’s more, NDOL assists employers with using layoff aversion and response strategies, including Short-Time Compensation and the Rapid Response program.

Business services solutions are customizable and unique to every employer.

For more information about the Nebraska Department of Labor’s services for employers, visit dol.nebraska.gov/Home/ContactUs to contact your local job center today and discover your workforce solution! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Teams.Coach Brings in Rave Reviews for ‘Blue Sky Day’ Intensive Coaching Program Te a m s . C o a c h O w n e r Michael King is drawing rave reviews for his threeto four-hour “Blue Sky Day” intensive coaching program for business leaders, which allows clients to meet with him and erase everything they know—including obstacles. He says the sky is the limit on our dreams and vision and participating in a Blue Sky Day will always net a significant step toward a significant idea. It could include fixing something that already exists or thinking up something brand new. Here’s an excerpt of feedback from a Teams.Coach client who recently completed a Blue Sky Day session with Michael: “We held our blue-sky day with Michael after a few months of talking about messaging and social media strategy to put our heads together (at Michael’s direction) and come up with next steps to get started…We needed a catalyst and some direction and mapping to move from concept to reality. Michael does a great job of asking the right kind of questions to get us thinking in ways we haven’t before, which is critical when something different needs to happen to get different results. His energy and excitement are contagious and help to make difficult changes seem achievable. We left with some clear next steps and a roadmap to achieving success. If you have an idea of something that you know you need to do, but feel stuck and unsure of what next steps to take, I would encourage you to schedule a blue-sky day with Michael.”

For more information about working with Teams.Coach to make your business vision flourish or schedule a Blue Sky Day, visit teams.coach or email Michael@teams.coach.

JUNE 2021 Strictly Business 13

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BUSINESS NEWS Innovative Sani Solutions Provides HassleFree Curbside Trash Can Cleaning Services Innovative Sani Solutions is excited to provide a hassle-free and eco-friendly curbside trash can cleaning service for residential and commercial properties throughout the Greater Omaha area.

This new service coincides with the homeowner’s trash service pick-up day. Trash cans are left on the curb after trash collection and the Innovative Sani Solutions trucks perform the cleaning service on-site. A combination of high-pressure, hot water, and biodegradable products are used to disinfect and deodorize trash cans in a fully contained and environmentally friendly washing system.

Thank you to these businesses who recently joined the Chamber and invested in the community Angels Share

No Shame Ministries

BigIron Auctions

NuSpine Legacy West

Carlson & Burnett

Okra African Grill

CEG Global Solutions

Omaha Insomnia and Psychiatric Services

Continental Siding Manufacturing

Omaha’s Rug Cleaning and Restoration

Dreamy Displays Dundee Venture Capital Edward Jones - Kara O’Connor

Precision Lighting and Electric Principal Financial Group ReliabilityWeb.com

Electric Express

Right at Home

EverGreen Capital Management

Rooted Synergy Gallery Scott Data Center

Hello Garage

Spreetail

Husker Law

Stratum Productions

Integrated Prescription Management

The McFarland Group

Kaleb Duncan Photography

Thrivent - Rachael Sikes

Keller Williams Realty - Jim and Jim Marriott

Triple J Cleaning of Omaha

Key Home Care

Wilhelm Mortgage

Meza Gardens and Landscaping

Yale Enforcement Services

Verdure Elements

Midwest Medical Billing

Zeal

Nebraska Realty - Tim Traudt

Join today at

OmahaChamber.org

402-346-5000 14

Strictly Business JUNE 2021

“Dirty trash cans can contain harmful bacteria and organisms that can be easily transferred back into your home or business,” said Co-owner Dave Blamble. “Even after your trash is picked up, there is still dirt, leftover debris, bacteria, at times maggots, and a terrible smell left behind—until now.”

A variety of service plans are available, including monthly, quarterly, biannual, and annual cleanings, and each residential plan includes up to three trash cans per visit. Discounts are available for Homeowner Associations, entire neighborhoods, and managed properties.

Commercials plans and power-washing services are also available.

Innovative Sani Solutions is locally owned and operated and provides service throughout Omaha, Elkhorn, Gretna, Papillion, Bellevue, and the surrounding areas. For more information, visit innovativesanisolutions.com.

Glassman Recycling & Repurposing Resumes Curbside Collection Services Glassman Recycling & Repurposing is once again offering residential curbside, apartment, condo, and business glass collection services. The company was founded in July 2020. At its nine-month mark, Glassman served 250 homes, 339 apartments/condos, and a growing list of businesses. Residential and commercial properties in Douglas and Sarpy counties can reach out for curbside pick-up.

Glass is the simplest of products to recycle and yet municipalities are unable to offer curbside collection. The free glass dump locations are a good option but, for many, they are inconvenient and the glass and jobs get shipped to Kansas City. Glassman Recycling & Repurposing provides curbside glass collection and processes it back into sand right here in the Omaha Metro. Sand from crushed glass is sorted by size with specialized equipment.

The varying sizes can be used for new glass, golf course sand traps or top dressing greens, landscaping, pool filters, colored glass and resin countertops, decorative art sand, road/parking lot repairs via glassphalt, sandblasting grit, and more. For those who wonder what they can recycle, the rule is pretty simple: yes - empty bottles, jars, etc.; no - caps, lids, jars with food or sauce, window glass, and pyrex.

Contact Glassman Recycling & Repurposing if you’re interested in Glassman’s sand from glass product or you want to request collection services! The website is www.glassmanrandr.com and the number is (402) 578-4204. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS See The Trainer® Midwest Becomes Proud Sponsor for Omaha Beef Football Team As of 2021, See The Trainer® Midwest, Inc. is one of the proud sponsors of the Omaha Beef Football team! As a sponsor for the Omaha Beef, See The Trainer is responsible for supplying all of the Beef’s athletic training supplies, bracing, and protective equipment for players, as well as anything else that they need to help them play their best during their season and off-season. To show their support, the whole See The Trainer Omaha team went out for the rivalry game on April 17. Although the game didn’t end as well as hoped for the Beef, the See The Trainer staff could not have had a better time. Team member Emma Maher was actually brought down to the field during halftime for some fun activities!

If you or a program you know of could benefit from a See The Trainer® Midwest, Inc. sponsorship like with Omaha Beef, call (402) 493-4747. See The Trainer has in-stock products for orthopedic, sports medicine, rehabilitation, home health, and patient education.

For more information, visit seethetrainer.com/location/omaha-ne.

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402.916.1700 • LifetimeStone.com AKRS Announces Partnership with Alumni Association for Naming of Champions Club

Center Sphere Emphasizing Philanthropic Impact with New Strategic Best Practices

On April 29, AKRS Equipment announced a partnership with the Nebraska Alumni Association for exclusive naming rights for the Nebraska Champions C l u b, t h e p r e m i e r Nebraska football tailgating and private-event space across the street from Memorial Stadium. The agreement, which runs through the 2026 football season, created the AKRS Champions Club just in time for the May 1 Husker Red-White Spring Game.

Center Sphere has always encouraged their members and chapters to support local nonprofits in their comm unities, but the organization recently took that a step further by incorporating new strategic best practices into their chapter structures. In January, Center Sphere chapters were asked to come together and select a common philanthropic cause that is deeply rooted in the community and be involved with it on a consistent basis. The idea spread like wildfire and the organization is excited for the local impact these members are set to make.

In addition to the naming rights partnership, AKRS President Kevin Clark, a 1993 Nebraska graduate and former student-athlete on the Husker cross-country and track-and-field teams, indicated AKRS would make a commitment toward creating new opportunities for agriculture education by supporting scholarships for students across the University of Nebraska system.

“The partnership with the Nebraska Alumni Association to create the AKRS Champions Club aligns us with an institution with a shared commitment to success and excellence,” Clark said. “In addition, our scholarship program will deepen our relationships with the communities we serve and the University of Nebraska.”

AKRS Equipment Solutions, based in Lincoln with locations across the state, is the Midwest’s premier John Deere dealership with 27 locations. It formed in 2020 when Plains Equipment Group, Stutheit Implement, and Greenline Equipment joined forces to create the most innovative and forward-thinking dealership in the Midwest. For more information, visit akrs.com or call (402) 269-2241. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

“Doing good together is incredibly powerful,” said Center Sphere’s Director of National Growth Ben LeGrow. “Creating an impact on a local level binds our membership together in a way that simple business transactions just can’t replicate. We are excited members are getting behind this movement and can’t wait to see how it influences our communities.”

Center Sphere recommends that their members get involved in these philanthropic missions in a variety of ways, including physical service opportunities, donations, and services that involve their friends and families.

Center Sphere is an established network of business professionals whose mission is to share referrals, ideas, and resources through genuine relationships. The Omaha Network is currently made up of nearly 50 chapters that have access to members nationwide. For more information about Center Sphere or to inquire about attending a complimentary meeting or event, visit www.CenterSphere.com or connect with Omaha Market President Martina Niemeyer at Martina@CenterSphere.com or (402) 536-0289.

JUNE 2021 Strictly Business 15

BUSINESS NEWS Pasta Amore in Rockbrook Village Announces New Ownership

Hello Garage of Omaha Aims to Redefine the Garage Renovation Category

Pasta Amore, located in Rockbrook Village, has announced new ownership after 35 years in business. Lillo “Leo” Fascianella is retiring and transferring ownership to restauranteurs Jared Clarke and Matt Burbach, both Nebraska natives and co-owners of Railcar and Timber.

Jared, who will also be executive chef of Pasta Amore, is a 21-year veteran of the restaurant industry. He graduated as a certified chef with the American Culinary Federation and continued his education at the University of Nebraska, where he received his bachelor’s degree in Culinology (food science). From there, he traveled to Chicago honing his skills in American, French, and Asian techniques with upscale restaurants. After six years in Chicago, Jared returned to Omaha where he took a position as an executive chef for Blue Sushi Sake Grill before developing and opening Railcar Modern American Kitchen. Jared is currently on the board of the Omaha Restaurant Association. Matt is a graduate of UNL and a former insurance executive. As with Railcar and Timber, he will handle all accounting, finance, and payroll. Matt will also focus on wine selection and enjoy helping with pasta making.

Fortunately for Pasta Amore fans, the new ownership pledged to honor established traditions including current recipes, tablecloths, and the Pasta Amore name. They will continue to pride themselves on mouthwatering pastas made ‘old school’ on pasta machines imported from Italy. Current staff will remain, including General Manager Robyn Davis. Updates include the making of all pasta, bread, ricotta, and mozzarella in house and eventually returning to lunch services. They anticipate opening for Happy Hour Monday–Saturday, 3–5:30 p.m.

Reservations are now available through Open Table. The website (www. pastaamore.com) has also been updated to include online ordering.

Call the restaurant at (402) 391-2585 with questions.

Hello Garage of Omaha is off to a roaring start as it embarks on its mission to get Omaha area homeowners to elevate their garages from their home’s cluttered junk drawer to its true front door. A corporate store of Omaha-based Hello Garage Franchising and backed by more than 45 years’ industry experience, Hello Garage of Omaha transforms peoples’ homes by upgrading the things that most make an impact on their garages: flooring, storage, and organization.

The company’s primary offering is its polyaspartic garage floor coating. Compared with epoxy and polyurethane coatings, polyaspartic coatings offer superior strength and extended durability.

In addition, Hello Garage offers a highly customizable storage system, including industrial-strength steel cabinets and shelving manufactured right here in Omaha. They also offer organizational accessories such as slatwall, lighting and other products that can help homeowners declutter just about any garage space.

While there are other offerings to choose from in the garage renovation segment, Hello Garage differentiates itself from its competitors by endeavoring to redefine the entire contractorhomeowner experience. In fact, they want the process to be so remarkable, their customers will tell their friends about it.

Hello Garage of Omaha is a Supportworks company, which was founded by the Thrasher family in Omaha in 2008. To learn more, visit www.hellogarageofomaha.com or call (402) 265-8039.

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BUSINESS NEWS uBreakiFix Grows Franchise Footprint in Omaha Area

ActionCOACH Invites you to Attend Omaha Empowerment Breakfast on Friday, June 4

Electronics repair shop uBreakiFix is now open at 14919 West Maple Rd., STE 105, in the West Greyhawk shopping center next to Panera Bread, Rusty Taco, and Firehouse Subs. The store offers repairs on smartphones, tablets, computers, and more to help the community stay connected. uBreakiFix Northwest Omaha is owned by Dustin Pfeifer and Gene Chevalier. The owners operate three stores in the Omaha area and are looking to expand in the future.

“We love this new location because of its close proximity to great shopping and restaurants in the area, so our customers don’t have to go out of their way to fix their electronics,” said Pfeifer. “More than anything, we want our customers to experience the difference with uBreakiFix, making it the most high-quality, convenient, and expert customer care around.” uBreakiFix was founded in 2009 by millennial entrepreneurs Justin Wetherill and David Reiff to fill a gap in the market for affordable, high-quality phone repair. The duo soon partnered with Eddie Trujillo to transition their Internet-based repair brand to a brick-andmortar model. uBreakiFix began franchising in 2013 and currently operates more than 600 locations across the U.S. and Canada. For more information and to view a service menu, visit ubreakifix.com/ locations/northwestomaha.

A c t i o n C O AC H i s t h e presenting sponsor for the Omaha Empowerment Breakfast (OEB) on Friday, June 4, from 7 to 8:30 a.m. at Charlie’s on the Lake, with featured guest speaker Ric k Bettger, owner of Omaha Car Care. Rick will be speaking about what he learned when rebranding his business, including tales of leadership, advertising, patience, and culture building.

Greater Omaha Chamber EDP Praises Facebook's Expansion into Springfield The Greater Omaha Chamber Economic Development Partnership (EDP) congratulated Facebook on their Sarpy County expansion. The social-networking and connection-technology giant announced on March 24 they will expand into Springfield, adding nearly 1 million square feet to their data center operations.

“This is an exciting development in Facebook’s continued growth, and we are pleased to join them in celebrating their ongoing presence in Sarpy County,” said Andrew Rainbolt, executive director, Sarpy County Economic Development Corporation. “Their level of commitment to our community is unprecedented, and their ongoing support of this region’s local organizations has seen more than $2 million in donations. Congratulations, Facebook!"

W. Todd Johnson, senior vice president, economic development, Greater Omaha Chamber, echoed Rainbolt’s remarks, adding Facebook’s growth is “welcome and well-deserved.”

“We are proud of the commitment Facebook has to communities, and commend everyone who will continue to work together to move this important development forward,” Johnson said.

Facebook officials said the expansion will potentially add $400 million in capital investment to Sarpy County, and is expected to create 100 new “operational jobs.”

The Greater Omaha Chamber Economic Development Partnership represents a seven-county area from two states (Nebraska and Iowa) that includes Cass, Dodge, Douglas, Otoe, Pottawattamie, Sarpy, and Washington Counties. The regionalized partnership operates as a comprehensive resource, driving growth and championing collaboration. To learn more, visit www.omahachamber.org/ economic-development. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

OEB is a non-membership event held on the first Friday of each month. It is a way for small business owners and operators to network with each other and connect with larger businesses and agencies in the community.

Each month, in addition to the featured speaker, several attendees are given a chance to speak about their businesses. There is also plenty of time allotted for participants to network with each other.

OEB is presented by ActionCOACH of Omaha (jimbarger.actioncoach. com), a business coaching company offering results-driven solutions to help businesses increase profits and improve operating efficacies.

For more information or to become a sponsor, contact Michael McKee at Michael@omahaempowermentbreakfast.org. Tickets are $20 and available for purchase at omahaempowermentbreakfast.org.

NAWIC Greater Omaha Chapter 116 Brings Home 4 Awards from Midwest Spring Forum The Greater Omaha Chapter 116 of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) was honored to be recognized with four awards during the NAWIC Midwest Region (MWR) Spring Forum in St. Louis April 30 – May 1. Those included Wheeler Elementary fifth grader Cheyanne Richardson’s winning of the MWR Block Kids Award, qualifying her project for the NAWIC national competition; and the Phoenix Rising Award being presented to NAWIC member Nanci Borg of United Rentals to recognize her leadership efforts at the chapter and regional levels during a very trying year.

Greater Omaha Chapter 116 also won two Women in Construction Week awards, including the award for “Creativity and Resourcefulness” for the chapter’s food-drive event, which gathered 4,700 pounds of food to benefit the Food Bank for the Heartland; and a second award for “Collaboration” for their NAWIC Tailgate, which brings companies together to celebrate women in construction.

This was the first time the Midwest Region Spring Forum was a highbred event, with both in-person and virtual participation, drawing 113 members from 17 chapters in the Midwest Region. Next up, the NAWIC national organization is hosting its 66th Annual Conference in Charlotte, NC, August 11-14.

NAWIC Chapter 116 in Omaha encompasses Lincoln, Omaha, Council Bluffs, and the surrounding areas. For more information, visit nawicomaha.com and follow them on Facebook (@nawicomaha). To inquire about becoming a member or attending a monthly meeting, email nawicomaha@gmail.com or call (402) 617-0961.

JUNE 2021 Strictly Business 17

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Meet Shelly Spencer, vice president/branch manager at West Gate Bank in Bellevue.

Tell us a little about your business. - West Gate Bank is a locally owned, customer- and employee-focused community bank. We were founded over 50 years ago and in July 2018, expanded into the Omaha/Bellevue market. We just recently broke ground on our fourth Omaha location at 177th and Maple to open in the summer of 2022.

How did you get started in the business? - I got a job at a small Colorado mountain bank immediately after graduating high school as a new accounts representative. I moved back to Nebraska several months later and was offered a teller job at a savings and loan where I was a customer and built my career in banking.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Trying to learn, grow, and advance in my career while raising my two sons. As a mom and a woman in banking, I have always strived to set an example for my sons.

Tell us a little about your family. - My oldest son Alex, his wife Cami, and my first grandson Liam live here in Omaha. My youngest son Nikolas is also here. I’m very fortunate to have them all close by!

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

- About six years ago, I had a very random rapid bone loss disease that really affected every aspect of my life. It got to the point where just walking was a major struggle. That definitely helped to give me some much needed perspective on having a work/life balance and being okay with asking for help.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Taking road trips or spending time on the golf course with my boyfriend.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I am a huge music fan and have attended over 50 concerts. My favorite concert venue is Red Rocks.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Ask yourself this question: Will this matter a year from now?”

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

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - "Three Little Birds"

by Bob Marley.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - An interior designer or travel agent.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I am on the Executive Board for the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce. I really enjoy meeting people in the community and being able to support local businesses.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon.

What is your favorite movie? - Dangerous Beauty.

What is your favorite TV show? - Outlander.

What is your favorite local Omaha restaurant? - Malara’s or Brother Sebastian’s.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Bob Marley. I think he’d be very real and authentic, super chill with a great vibe, and have some great stories.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? (402) 291-2000; sspencer@westgate.bank; westgate.bank. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

KRISTI

Kristi Benning

RIGHT AT HOME Meet Kristi Benning, the agency owner of Right at Home Omaha/Council Bluffs.

Tell us a little about your business. - Right at Home offers in-home care and assistance for seniors and adults with disabilities. We provide many services, from light housekeeping and companionship to personal care and administering medication. We help people stay at home and independent for as long as they wish.

How did you get started in the business? - I started with Right at Home corporate office 15 years ago and worked in franchise development. Over the last 11 years, I’ve worked for two different Right at Home franchises in Omaha.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- In 2016, I was given the opportunity to purchase the flagship operation of Right at Home. Looking back over the years, I realized what amazing opportunities I had to learn the business inside and out. We are able to help so many people every day!

Tell us a little about your family. - My kids and grandkids are the biggest joy in my life! I have two adult children and one who’s in middle school. We are all very close and spend a lot of time together. My oldest son and daughter-in-law have given me three beautiful grandkids. I have a Mini-Aussie named Gregor and my sweet grandpup, a Goldendoodle named Lewis.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Not answer my phone and spend time with my fam!

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I went to the University of Nebraska– Lincoln on a vocal music scholarship.

Who inspires you? - I went on a mission trip to North Vietnam a couple of years ago through Right at Home Corporate and the nonprofit organization Free Wheelchair Mission. We spent seven days meeting and providing wheelchairs for some of the most generous, loving, appreciative people I’ve ever met—people who live in poverty like I’ve never seen. They changed my life.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Not my circus, not my monkeys!

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

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - "I Will Not Be Moved"

by Natalie Grant.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Invisibility.

So I could play jokes on people!

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - There was the coolest coffee shop in Vietnam. I would love to copy it here someday. It'd also be cool to do something that all my kids could be involved in.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - We are involved with the Alzheimer’s Association and Parkinson’s Association.

We work with so many people affected by these diseases, it’s important to us to help as much as possible. My great uncle had Alzheimer’s, so it’s close to my heart.

What is your favorite TV show? - The Office. I think Michael Scott is the greatest.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 697-7536; kristi@rahomahametro.com; Rightathome.net/Omaha-metro. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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ALICIA

Alicia Stoermer Clark SELDIN COMPANY

Meet Alicia Stoermer Clark, CEO/president of Seldin Company.

Tell us a little about your business. Seldin Company is a family-owned property management group, operating throughout the central Midwest. We oversee the operations, compliance, and asset preservation of 20,000 units, with a diverse portfolio of Conventional and Affordable housing.

How did you get started in the business? - My entry into property management came through a required internship while completing my BS of Housing and the Near Environment at Iowa State University.

I joined a professional management company as a leasing agent in 1999 and immediately saw the opportunities available in the industry.

I advanced through the ranks by seeking educational opportunities, trainings, certifications, and just about anything I could enroll or participate in to learn more and add value to my organization.

Tell us a little about your family. - Steven, my husband, is a Senior Specialist for Safety and Environmental for Merck Animal Health.

We have five amazing children: Noah (19), Colton (13), Macie (12), Charlie (9), and Brantley (8). With the current ages of the kids, we're usually providing transportation to or from something. We enjoy all the activities and interactions our kids bring to our daily lives, and we spend most of our free time at sporting events, camping, fishing, or just about any other activity outdoors.

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

- While completing my MBA, I received an informational brochure on a PhD program. On a whim, and with great hesitation, I applied and was accepted. This five-year endeavor of coursework, residency, and completing the dissertation brought to my life a tremendous challenge and the resulting immense sense of accomplishment when I received my doctorate degree.

Who inspires you? - My parents! They have faced many difficult situations but through faith, love, and dedication, they used the experiences to become stronger. Growing up, I watched both my mom and dad work two or three jobs at a time to make ends meet. In the midst of their own trials, they would be the first to help a neighbor, friend, relative, or even stranger.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Don’t accept criticism from someone you wouldn’t accept advice from.”

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I had a longstanding interest in teaching at the university level. In the last two years, I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to become an Adjunct Professor for both Bellevue University and the University of Nebraska Omaha. It has been a great experience after 20+ years focused solely in one industry to expand my reach professionally to the academic world.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Carole’s House of Hope (CHH). I had the great pleasure of working with Carole Kinlow early in my property management career. She spoke for years of her desire to develop a program to help young mothers and she did it! CHH offers a transitional living program for young women and mothers who have aged out of foster care or become homeless.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Mike Krzyzewski, coach of the Duke Blue Devils basketball team. I am a lifelong Duke basketball fan, impressed by his leadership abilities and the way he runs the program.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 333-7373; alicia.clark@seldin.com; www.seldin.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

APRIL

April Campbell

Helping to create an inclusive Omaha Community for individuals with disabilities.

HOTWORX - OMAHA NORTHWEST Meet April Campbell, owner at HOTWORX - Omaha Northwest.

Tell us a little about your business. HOTWORX is the first of its kind—a fitness studio that combines three elements: infrared energy, heat, and exercise. The combination of these elements cause your core body temperate to rise and causes you to sweat. You will burn an increased amount of calories during your workout and for up to 60-minutes after!

There are so many benefits of working out in an infrared sauna but to name a few: detoxification, weight loss, decreased blood pressure, increased circulation, skin rejuvenation, decreased cellulite, muscle recovery, and stress reduction.

How did you get started in the business? - As a busy mom, I had been on the search for something I could do on my own so I could be my own boss. One day, I came across the HOTWORX concept and as a nurse, the concept made complete sense to me. During the discovery process with HOTWORX, I became so excited learning even more about the concept and how it helps so many people in many different ways, that I couldn’t wait to get started!

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What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?

- One of my biggest challenges professionally is learning that I should not take things personally. In the nursing world, a caring quality makes you a good nurse. In the business world, it can cause additional stress.

W h a t h a s b e e n y o u r m o s t i m p o r t a n t a c h i ev e m e n t professionally? - Obtaining my master’s degree is my most important professional achievement. After graduating with my nursing diploma years ago, I set a goal to get my Masters. I was able to complete my bachelor’s degree and then began focusing on my master’s degree. My master’s degree was much more difficult compared to my nursing diploma or bachelor’s degree because I had to juggle a family, work, and schoolwork.

It was a long two years, but once I graduated, I could not believe how fast it went.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Anything with my family. Movies, boating, swimming, sports…you name it as long as I am with family.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I have double jointed thumbs. If we ever meet, be sure to ask me to show you my thumbs!

Which talent would you most like to have? - I am not sure if this is considered a talent per say, but I do wish I could be a long distance runner. I am so jealous of those that compete in and complete marathons. I am sure it is such a great feeling of accomplishment once you sign up for a run, set the goal, train for it, and step over that finish line.

What is your favorite movie? - It’s kind of silly, but my alltime favorite movie is The Santa Clause. I am obsessed with this movie and watch it year round. It reminds me of my childhood and that things were magical as a child. “Seeing isn’t believing, believing is seeing.”

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 315-3368; studio.ne0005@hotworx.net; hotworx. net/studio/omaha-northwest. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BIG BIRGE PLUMBING Meet James Mann, journeyman plumber at Big Birge Plumbling.

Tell us a little about your business. - At Big Birge, our goal is to bring you highly trained plumbers who take pride in their work, treat you and your home with respect, interact with you politely and honestly, are prompt and efficient, and leave your home or business as clean as we found it. I can honestly say this is something our team stays true to. We have a great team and the owners, Brad and Lallenia Birge, make it feel like a family.

How did you get started in the business? - My friend’s father owned a plumbing company in Chadron, NE, where I was going to college, and needed help. I needed the money to pay for college, so it just made sense.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?

- Finding a plumbing job in Omaha after being a journeyman plumber in Lincoln for six years. I applied to a number of different plumbing companies but, at the time, no one was hiring unless you were certified in Omaha...but I had to work in Omaha in order to be certified, so it was difficult! I got lucky and found an Omaha company that happened to need a Lincoln journeyman, so it worked out well.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Being able to get my journeyman license in Omaha because it's one of the toughest tests.

Tell us a little about your family. - My wife Kelly owns two businesses and wears the pants in the family. We have three children: Tatum (9), Hendrix (5), and Merrick (3). We also have two dogs, a three-legged cat, a hamster, and too many fish.

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What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Spend time with family going to the zoo, camping, or exploring outside. I’ll also take a day to watch baseball or football non-stop when the family lets me.

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Who inspires you? - My dad, Ed Mann. He’s such a hard worker.

He teaches during the school year in Wyoming, while still running a farm and ranch back here in Nebraska. You will never hear him complain, and he always has a smile on his face.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Drawing. I make some pretty awesome driveway chalk art.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - A professional athlete in baseball or basketball because those are the sports I had the most fun playing.

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What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - The Dragon Lance Chronicles are the books that got me into reading.

They’re still my favorite.

What is your favorite TV show? - Family Guy. What is your favorite local Omaha restaurant? - DJ’s Dugout.

We love DJ’s because it’s a great place to take all three children with their game room. They also have amazing wings.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 575-0102; www.bigbirgeplumbing.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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How did you get started in the business? - I joined the Stonebrook team just about a year ago. Previous positions have allowed me to focus2020AquaSystems_3_68x2_41.indd on 1 3/19/20 10:58 AM customer relationships and building professional partnerships.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? – I’ve gained experience and learned so much from a variety of industries throughout my career. Knowledge is so important when you are working to build relationships. I feel you don’t need to be an expert in every subject but being able to talk to and relate to an individual on a personal and professional level can help to create a base to move forward.

Tell us a little about your family. - I was raised in Ainsworth, Nebraska.

I’m the oldest of five children. Our parents still reside in the area so it’s always fun when we all get back home to spend time with one another.

402.680.7838 Those that know me best know my cat Scrappy is part of my family. I mrouw@the-office-cleaners.com am a proud purr-mom! www.the-office-cleaners.com What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - In the fall of 2015, I had a major life change happen in my career. I accepted a job implementing a CRM for a company, which is where I met Neal Ferry. We became good friends and that friendship formed into a business relationship. Neal has been instrumental in discovering potential in me that I didn’t know existed. He started to get me involved in his consulting business, Ferry Business Consulting, which I continue to work with him on today. Neal has helped me see how existing businesses are run and how to help a potential startup. I cherish the day we met and will always be grateful to him for taking a chance on me. + Home, Auto, & Life What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I have a solid group of + MFG Home Communities & Retailers girlfriends, and we get together frequently to do brunch, drinks, dinner; and sometimes we let the other halves tag along. Riding my Harley with + Contractors my boyfriend is another favorite thing. + RV Dealerships Who inspires you? - My parents, Val and Rosalie. Dad is always + Manufactured Homes there to help someone out and my mom has the kindest smile and most loving nature. + RVS & Travel Trailers Committed to a high What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever + And more... standard in all t hat we do received? - “Once in a while you get shown the light, in the strangest of and establishing a firm places if you look at it right.” – Jerry Garcia relationship of trust and What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work service wit h our clients.

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If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – The saving and preserving of big cats.

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If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 934-5559; twilea@stonebrookexterior.com; 11326 Q St. Omaha, NE 68137 | 402.597.5224 | kingins.com stonebrookexterior.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart JUNE 2021 Strictly Business 23

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PERSONNEL NEWS Nebraska Sports Council Honors Dave Mlnarik for 30 Years of Service

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Executive Director Dave Mlnarik was recognized for his 30 years of service with the Nebraska Sports Council (NSC). The tribute to Dave took place at the Council’s Board meeting on April 29. Board President Rob Trebilcock and long-time Board member JoAnne Owens-Nausler commented on Dave’s leadership and service with NSC, remarking on the tremendous growth he has been a part of and the countless lives he has positively impacted.

“Dave Mlnarik, we honor you as the someone and we acknowledge the something as the biggest, best, and wellrun State Games in the United States. You and our amazing staff have done a tremendous job maintaining, sustaining, and ensuring the longevity of The Cornhusker State Games,” Owens-Nauslar said.

Dave started with the Nebraska Sports Council in 1991 as the Cornhusker State Games torch-run coordinator. He later became promotions director in 1992, assistant director in 1998, and began his current position as executive director in 2004.

The Nebraska Sports Council is a nonprofit organization with a mission to provide quality competition for athletes of all ages and abilities while promoting healthy and active lifestyle choices. NSC directs the Cornhusker State Games, the WellPower Movement, the Pumpkin Run, and the Lincoln and Omaha Corporate Games. For more information, visit NebraskaSportsCouncil.com or contact Ashley Kramer at (402) 471-2544 / Ashley@nebraskasportscouncil.com.

Thrivent is pleased to announce the addition of new financial advisor, Rachael Sikes.

Rachael previously served as a financial services representative for TD Ameritrade.

She worked there for two years and took on roles of a broker, worked the trading desk, and handled more complex strategies with clients. Rachael is committed to helping individuals and families achieve their financial goals. At Thrivent, she provides financial guidance so her clients can plan for their future with confidence and develop a strategy for protecting themselves against possible financial risks. She will office at the 11602 West Center Rd. location.

“I am in this field because of my passion to help people succeed financially, emotionally, and spiritually. This is more than a J-O-B for me.

It’s a calling, and I want to help people develop a healthy relationship with money,” said Rachael.

Thrivent and its subsidiary and affiliate companies serve more than 2.3 million clients, offering advice, insurance, investments, banking, and generosity products and programs over the phone, online, as well as through financial professionals and independent agents nationwide.

For more information, visit Thrivent.com. To contact Rachael directly, call (318) 540-2425 or email rachael.sikes@thrivent.com.

Berry Law Hires Chad Collins as New COO Berry Law recently announced the hiring of Army Veteran Chad Collins as its new Chief Operating Officer after a nationwide talent search. In filling the executive role, Mr. Collins will work closely with CEO John S. Berry, Jr. to drive operational efficiency and align firm operations to enable an aggressive growth strategy. As a former Army Major and legal operations leader, Chad has extensive experience in organizational leadership, strategy, and operations management.

“The work at Berry Law is centered around an amazing mission and is often life-changing for our clients,” Collins said. “I couldn’t be more excited to join this dynamic team.”

Leveraging more than a decade of experience in professional services administration—most recently as director of administration for Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman’s Austin, Houston, and Nashville offices—Collins will oversee finance, operations, and human resources functions for Berry Law. He holds an MBA from the University of San Diego and a Juris Doctor from the University of Oklahoma College of Law. Before beginning a career in professional services administration, Collins spent more than seven years as an officer with the United States Army, serving with the 101st Airborne as a platoon leader in Iraq and company commander in Afghanistan. He left active duty as a Major in 2011.

Berry Law was founded in 1965 by legendary attorney John S. Berry, Sr. With more than 250 years of combined legal experience and 300 years of combined military service, the team at Berry Law is well equipped to handle the most serious legal needs. For more information, visit berrylawfirm.com or contact Emily Schweitzer at (402) 466-8444 / marketing@jsberrylaw.com.

24 Strictly Business JUNE 2021

Jessica Steele-Codr, Tremale Berger Named Top Winners of Toastmasters Speech Contest Jessica Steele-Codr of Omaha and Tremale Berger of Los Angeles, CA placed first in their respective speech categories during the District 24 Speech Contest, held over Zoom and livestreamed to YouTube for public viewers on April 17. Jessica won the Humorous speech category with “Zoom It Up a Notch,” a priceless “informative” speech filled with the best Zoom tips that an excessively upbeat social-media influencer could offer. The Humorous contest category ends at the District level.

Jessica Steele-Codr Meanwhile, Tremale finished first in the International speech category, captivating the audience with his speech, “A Warm Place,” an emotional account of the struggles he faced on his journey to find love—and a reminder that love heals all.

Tremale will advance to the Regional Quarterfinals for the next round, where a video recording of his presentation will be judged against other speeches from across the Midwest and central Canada.

The first- and second-place winners of that Tremale Berger contest will advance to the International Speech Contest Semifinals. Other District 24 contestants in the International category featured Mitchell Nickerson of Grand Island (second), Kristin Malek of Lincoln (third), and Ash Banaszek of Omaha. Humorous category contestants also included Carol Sullivan of Norfolk (second), Debra Morton-Chale of Auburn (third), and Rebecca Fegan of Bellevue.

Toastmasters International empowers individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. Toastmasters District 24 includes more than 60 clubs and 1,000 members across Nebraska and Council Bluffs, IA. Learn more at d24tm.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

PERSONNEL NEWS RENZE Announces Promotion of John Kestner and Hire of Tim Grutsch RENZE of Omaha has announced a promotion and new hire to join their company. John Kestner has been promoted as the new graphics department manager with Tim Grutsch joining the team as preflight designer.

John previously worked as senior preflight technician for RENZE and has been with the company for six years. In his new position as the graphics department manager, he will be in charge of all in-house graphics production.

John earned his degree in commercial art and electronic imaging and graphics from John Kestner Metropolitan Community College.

Tim will work with graphic design, Photoshop retouching, and prepare files for printing in his position as preflight designer. He has a wide range of experience in design, as he previously worked as senior designer at Dotzler Creative Arts and was an instructor at The Creative Center for 32 years. Tim earned his degree in commercial art from the Fashion and Art Institute.

RENZE is a 126-year-old leading provider of exhibits, branded environments, event Tim Grutsch graphics, and point-of-purchase solutions. Find out more online at www.renze.com or contact Mike Compton with further questions at mcompton@renze.com / (402) 690-7733.

Monthei Named Outlook Enrichment’s First Visually Impaired Executive Director Paulette Monthei has been named the new executive director of Outlook Enrichment, a nonprofit providing resources and support to those with vision loss so they can remain independent. Born legally blind, Monthei marks the first executive director in the organization’s history who is visually impaired, as is each member of the nonprofit’s staff.

Monthei joined the Outlook Enrichment team as program manager in July 2020. She led the execution of Outlook Enrichment’s cultural, recreational, adaptive technology training and education programs. She also implemented new, inclusive programs to help people with limited vision live more fulfilled lives. In her new role, Monthei will continue leading programs, in addition to fostering relationships with Outlook Enrichment’s many participants, collaborators, and supporters, inviting them to empower their blind and visually impaired neighbors in their journeys beyond vision.

Monthei holds a bachelor’s degree in social work, specializing in disability law, from the University of Iowa. She also earned a master’s degree in public administration from Bellevue University.

She has participated on numerous boards and committees serving the disabled. Currently, Monthei serves on the Nebraska State Independent Living Council, the Aging & Vision Loss National Coalition’s Public Policy and Funding Committee, and the Aging & Vision Loss National Coalition’s Access to Quality Services Committee.

For more information about Outlook Enrichment’s programs or resources, please visit outlooken.org or call (531) 365-5051. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

JOAN KURTENBACH - HEARTLAND PAYROLL SOLUTIONS It’s about time payroll was made easy. Our platform is intuitive and our personal service is exceptional. Gain access to employee management tools including employee paperless onboarding, tax credit screening, time & attendance, human resources and a full payroll and tax service.

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Center Sphere Welcomes New Omaha Market President, New Director of Network Support Center Sphere recently welcomed two new members to their team—Martina Miemeyer as Omaha market president and Jen Monjaras as director of network support. In her new role, Martina will be taking over from the previous Omaha area director Lona Anderson (who moved into a corporate role) and will be the local resource for Omaha members to ensure they see success with their time in The Network! Jen brings a wealth of knowledge to her role and provides a critical link to helping members with their Center Sphere experiences, answering questions, helping plan events, and handling communications materials.

Martina Miemeyer

Martina’s prior experience comes from various roles that involved developing the next generation of leaders and helping individuals, businesses, and organizations to grow. She is passionate about coming alongside people to help them achieve their goals both in life and in business.

Martina grew up in Stromsburg and Jen Monjaras now calls Papillion home. She earned a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. After more than 12 years of teaching high school and sponsoring various student leadership organizations, Martina transitioned out of the classroom and turned her focus to personal/professional development through strengths-based coaching. Her greatest passion and mission is partnering with her husband, Todd, to raise their four amazing children, Audriana, Evan, Lillian, and Brielle.

Jen’s background includes sales, business development, client services, and marketing, all of which have enriched her impact in her past professional roles. Her business acumen, combined with obsessive attention to detail and a passionate, client-centered approach, allow her to consistently exceed expectations. A native of North Platte, Jen holds a bachelor’s degree in communication arts from Bellevue University, where she also played softball. She and her husband live in Omaha and enjoy spending time with their adorable children, Larsen and Camila, and their friends and family.

For more infor mation about Center Sphere, visit www.

CenterSphere.com or call (402) 536-0289.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Gumaer Marks 1 Year with Strictly Business May 1 marked Diane Gumaer’s one-year anniversary as a writer for Strictly Business.

Diane’s role includes communicating with clients and writing more than 100 press releases and several feature stories for the publication each month. Coming from a 35-year background in writing and communications, she enjoys putting her skills to work for a company that she believes truly makes a difference to businesses in the Lincoln and Omaha communities. Diane recently moved to McCook to follow a new job opportunity for her husband but continues her role on the Strictly Business team as a remote employee.

“Working for Strictly Business to partner with local businesses in content marketing is a super-rewarding job,” Diane said. “I have worked in a variety of communications roles throughout my lengthy career, and none have made me feel more like I am making a real difference.”

Strictly Business is a reliable news source and effective advertising tool, publishing original content in print, online, and on social media. To learn more, visit strictlybusinessomaha.com. To contact Diane, call her directly at (308) 655-1056 or email office@ strictlybusinessomaha.com.

NBA Elects 2021-22 Board of Directors At its May 5 annual meeting, the Nebraska Bankers Association (NBA) elected its 202122 Board of Directors, chairman, and chairman-elect. Kirk Riley, president, CEO, and chairman of the board of Waypoint Bank in Cozad, was selected to serve as chairman for the coming year. Riley has more than 40 years of experience in banking, has served in leadership roles in various banks and joined Waypoint as executive vice president in 2004. He succeeds Chris Hove, president and CEO of Nebraska Bank of Commerce in Lincoln, as NBA president.

Selected as chairman-elect for the coming year is Stephen Stull, president and CEO of Farmers State Bank in Dodge. Stull received his degree in administration and finance from the University of Nebraska Lincoln and served at various banks in the state before he and his father and brother organized an investment group to purchase Farmers State Bank in 2011. Stull will assume the chairmanship of the NBA in May 2022.

Wesley Siebert Joins Principal Financial, Approaches 15 Years in the Industry Wesley Siebert, BSP has joined Principal Financial Network of Nebraska as a financial representative, principal securities registered representative, and financial advisor.

Throughout his 14 years in the industry, Wesley has focused his career on two primary groups: Closely held business owners and their employees and individuals looking to prepare for retirement. For his business owners and employees, this work often focuses on 401(k) Plan, Group, and Voluntary Benefits. He understands that often, the topic of finances is a stressor for individuals, families, and businesses. Wesley wants to help his clients ease that stress and establish well thought out goals and a path towards achieving them. For his pre-retirees, these conversations usually focus on how to prepare for when “Every day is a Saturday.”

He utilizes a process-based approach that is not driven by products but rather a series of conversations and clear communications to create goals while establishing the strategies, paths, and resources needed to accomplish them. Wesley holds his FINRA 7 & 66 securities registrations as well as his Life & Health Insurance License. He attended the University of Nebraska Omaha where he studied French. Wesley was a LILI (Life In Leadership Institute) in 2019.

Principal® Financial Network of Nebraska is a group of local offices representing Principal. To learn more, go online to www.principal. com/nebraska or contact Wesley at (402) 401-2411 (direct) / (402) 214-8698 (mobile) / Siebert.Wesley@Principal.com.

Open Door Mission Honors Pat McKernan at Special Retirement Luncheon, Celebration

Kirk Riley

Stephen Stull

Curtis Heapy of Western Nebraska Bank in Curtis and Ryne Seaman of Cattle Bank & Trust in Seward were elected to serve in at-large positions on the 2021-22 NBA Board.

Appointed to represent their respective institutions—the eight largest Nebraska financial institutions as of June 30, 2020—are Nicholas Baxter, First National Bank of Omaha in Omaha; Cory Bergt, Wells Fargo Bank in Lincoln; John Kotouc, American National Bank in Omaha; Kim Hammes, Bank of the West in Omaha; Zachary Holoch, Cornerstone Bank in York; Joseph Sullivan, U.S. Bank in Omaha; Dan Svehla, Union Bank & Trust in Lincoln; and Chris Wiedenfeld, Great Western Bank in Omaha.

For more information about the Nebraska Bankers Association, visit nebankders.org or call (402) 474-1555.

26 Strictly Business JUNE 2021

Open Door Mission held a special luncheon on May 26 to honor long-time volunteer, advocate, and Mission team leader Pat McKernan. Past graduates, staff, and community members stopped by to wish Pat well and swap favorite memories. Pat had the chance to say a few words. When asked what he wanted his legacy to be, he said: “I’ve always believed you can teach a person to rise up and live the purpose God has for you. I hope the people who have come through our doors felt like we came alongside them and showed them God-given talents they didn’t know they had.”

It was back in 2006 when Candace Gregory, president/CEO of Open Door Mission, presented Pat McKernan the Volunteer of the Year Award.

Pat was a well-known businessman in the community giving his time and rallying other men to volunteer their time, talent, and financial support for the Mission. Pat then joined the Board of Directors, continuing to advocate within his circles of influence. Gregory approached McKernan in 2010 about doing more for the Mission if he would join Open Door Mission’s team as the Men’s Ministry Director.

“Pat brought not only a professional skillset to the team but a complete understanding of the 12 Steps due to his own life experiences," Candace said. "Pat has become a father figure to many who have been fatherless with his compassion and tough love."

Open Door Mission offers 917 safe shelter beds to those experiencing homelessness, serves 4,747 meals to feed the hungry, and empowers more than 1,000 people living in poverty to remain in their own homes through homeless prevention resources. Learn more at opendoormission.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

PERSONNEL NEWS BBB Honors Students of Integrity in Region via 2021 Scott Mecham Scholarship Awards On April 26, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) announced the winners of the 2021 Scott Mecham Student of Integrity Award Scholarships in BBB’s Metro Omaha/Southwest Iowa service region—including Justine Buman of Harlan, IA, Ciara Noelle Stueve of Bellevue, and Spencer Gordman of Elkhorn.

The scholarships aim to promote ethics and integrity among young people and motivate them to continue incorporating moral values into every aspect of their lives, with decisions based mainly on the content of a required Justine Buman essay about a situation in which the students were personally involved that tested their ethical philosophy. Each of these graduating students won a $2,000 post-secondary scholarship from BBB’s Education Foundation.

“These Students of Integrity personify all of the best aspects of ethical behavior and fine character in their personal choices and actions,” said BBB President and CEO Jim Hegarty. “Unlike many other scholarships; grades, financial need, and ethnicity are not factors in selecting the recipients. Justine, Ciara Noelle Stueve Ciara, and Spencer are receiving these scholarships because of their commitment to honesty and accountability inside and outside of the classroom.”

Justine will be graduating from Harlan Community High School and will attend the University of Iowa College of Nursing, “not for the potential salary, but for the possibility of helping people.” She wants to be responsible for doing service as noble as keeping hope alive and providing physical and emotional comfort for the people in their most considerable time of need. Ciara Spencer Gordman is graduating from Bellevue East High School and will attend the University of Nebraska Lincoln for a degree in emerging media arts to pursue a career in game design and animation.

She wants to be a creator that can “bring stories to life so that someone will find meaning in them.” Spencer is graduating from Elkhorn High School and will study business at the University of Kansas Lawrence, as part of the KU Honors program. He plans to pursue a career in business but in “an unorthodox way,” as he sees himself creating a business or joining a startup that revolutionizes an industry.

Better Business Bureau provides objective advice, free BBB Business Profiles on more than 5.3 million companies, 11,000 charity reviews, dispute resolution services, alerts, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. Please visit BBB.org for more information.

It’s Not What You Know, It’s Who You Know and Who Knows You! At Strictly B u s i n e s s, we strive to recognize local professionals 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, email editor@strictlybusinessomaha.com, or submit your news online via strictlybusinessomaha.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Carmen Tapio of North End Teleservices Named Enterprising Woman of the Year North End Teleservices, LLC, is proud to announce that President and CEO Carmen Tapio has been selected as a winner of the 2021 Enterprising Women of the Year Awards, an annual tribute to the world's top women entrepreneurs. Widely considered one of the most prestigious recognition programs for women business owners in the U.S. and globally, awardees all must demonstrate that they have fastgrowth businesses, mentor or actively support other women and girls involved in entrepreneurship and stand out as leaders in their communities. The awards are held by Enterprising Women magazine, the only national and global magazine for women entrepreneurs.

Tapio represents North End Teleservices in the "over $5 million and up to $10 million in annual revenues" category. Her current role as CEO of North End Teleservices (NET) is the culmination of her passion for business and community by creating jobs and changing lives in Northeast Omaha. Tapio believes that a rising tide lifts all boats, focusing her energy and efforts on advancing the lives of others by creating pathways to fully participate in the economy, enabling choice and legacy building. Her leadership approach has translated into numerous personal and business accolades including NET being named Small Business of the Month, Business Excellence Small Business of the Year, Business Excellence in Innovation and Business Excellence in Leadership by the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, and Best Corporate Culture by the Urban League of Nebraska Young Professionals. In 2020, NET was named #677 on the Inc. 5000's list of fastest-growing privately-owned companies. It is currently the largest African American owned business in Nebraska.

A champion of diversity, equity, and inclusion in business and her community, Tapio currently sits on the board of directors for the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, Lending Link, and Spark CDI. She is also an Executive Committee member of the Chamber board, council chair of the Council for Opportunity, Diversity, and Equity (CODE); co-chair of the CEOs for CODE cohort; and council chair of the Diversity Subcommittee for the economic recovery Thrive initiative. She is the 2023 incoming chair of the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce and the first African American woman to serve in this leadership capacity.

North End Teleservices, LLC is an omnichannel global provider of outsourced contact center services to government and commercial sectors. NET is a certified woman-owned, minority-owned, HubZone business that serves as an extension of their clients' brands and their service delivery model. Working with small and large B2B, B2C, and government agencies, NET customizes contact center operations to meet every client's specific needs. To learn more, visit www. northendteleservices.com.

JUNE 2021 Strictly Business 27

PERSONNEL NEWS MOWBC Welcomes Three Board Members, Appoints Reynolds to Shadow Board VP

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Isn’t it time you start seeing them?

CALL TODAY. 402-817-3929 • ARSOLUTIONSINC.COM

Centris Federal Credit Union Promotes Diane Cruz, Rick Seamann, Heidi Weeks Centris Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce the promotion of Diane Cruz to assistant vice president, Retail Financial Services; Rick Seamann to vice president of Indirect Lending; and Heidi Weeks to vice president of Mortgage Services.

Diane Cruz began her career with Centris in 2012 as a vault teller at the credit union’s 36th and L Street branch. She has been progressively promoted through several retail positions, including branch services representative, financial services Diane Cruz representative, lead services representative, and financial sales manager. In 2020, Cruz was promoted to financial sales manager II, overseeing the Centris corporate headquarters branch and eCommerce teams. In her new role as an AVP, Cruz will manage the contact center and eCommerce teams. Cruz is an Army veteran and currently represents Centris on the Nebraska Credit Union League’s Credit Unions for Kids Advisory Cabinet.

Rick Seamann joined Centris in September Rick Seamann 2014. He brought with him a wealth of knowledge about auto lending, having used the same indirect platform vender that Centris worked with. He also brought experience from the dealer side of the business, having worked in dealerships and being part of lending teams in the dealer space for many years. This expertise allowed him to excel in the roles for the Centris Indirect Lending area. Since December of 2015, Seamann has been assistant vice president of Indirect Lending.

Heidi Weeks Heidi Weeks joined Centris Federal Credit Union in 2010 as a mortgage service representative. She has since held the positions of lead mortgage service representative and mortgage production manager. In October 2017, she was promoted to assistant vice president and led the Mortgage Department’s production team, managing all aspects of its day-to-day business.

Centris Federal Credit Union, founded in 1934, is one of Nebraska’s largest federally chartered community credit unions. Centris serves Douglas, Sarpy, Lincoln, McPherson, and Pottawattamie counties and has 15 offices in Omaha, Grand Island, North Platte, and Tryon, NE and Council Bluffs, IA. Their mission is to be a trusted life-long financial partner. Learn more online at centrisfcu.org.

28 Strictly Business JUNE 2021

The Metro Omaha Women’s Business Center (MOWBC) recently welcomed three new members—Desiree Nguessan, Theresa Bradley, and Charlene Pierce—to its Board of Directors and announced that board member Sheena Reynolds has been selected to shadow the board’s vice president, in preparation for taking on that leadership role in two years.

Desiree owns Women Are Rubies Boutique and is founder of the nonprofit Small & Anointed Christian Entrepreneurs, and now is serving as cochair of events for MOWBC. Theresa owns Lady Bradley’s Salon and will serve as the membership chair on the Board. Charlene Pierce is a business banking officer for CharterWest Bank in Elkhorn and will serve as an Adhoc member working with several committees. Finally, Sheena is a long-time board member and owns Reynolds Business Consulting.

She will shadow the board’s vice president for the coming two years before serving in that role herself. Sheena brings extensive experience on the MOWBC board and in leadership, business consulting, policy writing, programming, event planning, motivational speaking, and more.

MOWBC Board members help to direct the mission of the organization: to empower women to become economically self-sufficient.

The Metro Omaha Women’s Business Center provides targeted education, workshops, job training, strong relationships, and resources to provide opportunities for women to ac hieve business, professionalism, and personal growth toward becoming economically self-sufficient. For more information, visit mowbcf.org, call (402) 763-0540, or email info@mowbcf.org.

Sarpy Chamber Congratulates Annisa Visty on Position at La Vista Community Foundation Annisa Visty said a bittersweet goodbye to the Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce at the end of May to pursue her dream job as the new executive director of the La Vista Community Foundation.

Annisa has become well known to Sarpy Chamber members for her pragmatic, no-fuss attitude. So, while she would like to make this announcement with as little fanfare as possible, the Chamber staff feels compelled to engage in just a little bit of fussing to recognize Annisa for being a valuable, hardworking, and respected member of the team.

Annisa began her career at the Sarpy Chamber 11 and half years ago. Since joining them in 2009, she has served the organization with a strong dedication to their mission of providing education, advocacy, and leadership to the local business community. She began her tenure with the Sarpy Chamber as an office manager and grew into the roles of director of special events and left as vice president.

“We will miss having Annisa in the office every day but, at the same time, we are so excited to see her take on her dream position at the La Vista Community Foundation. We know firsthand what an asset she is to the community, so we are excited to see all she’ll accomplish as a long-time employee of this organization,” said Sarpy Chamber President Karen Gibler.

Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce proudly serves the communities of Bellevue, Gretna, La Vista, Offutt, Papillion, Springfield, and Greater Sarpy County as the primary business resource. To learn more, visit sarpychamber.org or call (402) 339-3050. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS OHB Announces Keynote Speaker Michael Oher for 100 Year Anniversary Celebration

Angels Among Us Opens Registration for 15-Year Anniversary Celebratory Event

In 2020, Omaha Home for Boys (OHB) turned 100 years old and is excited to announce that former Baltimore Ravens offensive tackle and author Michael Oher will be the keynote speaker for their big anniversary celebration on September 9. After having to postpone last year’s inperson festivities due to the pandemic, OHB is excited to finally get to celebrate its milestone anniversary!

The celebratory luncheon will be at CHI Health Center Omaha, and the public is invited to attend to hear Oher’s inspiring message.

Angels Among Us has opened registration for its 15-year anniversary celebration, scheduled for Friday, October 15th at Embassy Suites in La Vista. “An Evening Among Angels Crystal Ball” will celebrate 15 years of positively impacting families whose children are battling pediatric cancer in Nebraska. Sponsorships and registration are open to the public a t mya n ge l s a m o n g u s. o r g, a n d t h e organization sends out a special thank you to presenting sponsor Aflac and to Honorary Chairs Shirley Young Armitage and Dr. James Armitage.

Other key sponsors include The Brian Duensing Foundation, Feltz Wealthplan Partners, Firepsrint, and Fusion Medical Staffing.

This milestone event will include various activities beginning at 5:30 p.m., including cocktail hour, large silent action, interactive cocktail games, a plated meal, live auction, and a short program—all to help the pediatric cancer families Angels Among Us serves.

Angels Among Us is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide financial and emotional support to any family whose child is battling pediatric cancer living in or being treated in the state of Nebraska. For more information about ways to make a difference and get involved in the Angels Among Us mission, please contact Aly Theilen at alyssa@myangelsamongus.org.

Oher’s journey from the streets of Memphis to the NFL is portrayed in the Academy Award nominated movie The Blind Side. Oher was a first-round NFL Draft pick and a 2013 Super Bowl Champion with the Baltimore Ravens. He is also the author of the New York Times Bestseller I Beat the Odds: From Homelessness to the Blind Side and Beyond.

Tickets for the event now are on sale at OHB.org. Proceeds from the 100 Year Anniversary Celebration will benefit the youth, young adults, children, and families served by Omaha Home for Boys. For more information or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, contact Lori Bechtold at lbechtold@OHB.org or (402) 457-7014.

Stephen Center Seeking Bike Helmets, Locks As the temperature increases, so do outdoor activities! Thanks to a new partnership with Team Bike Rescue of Omaha, Stephen Center is requesting donations of bike locks and new bike helmets for men, women, and children. Team Bike Rescue of Omaha—a local nonprofit that recycles used bikes for giving to people in need—is providing Stephen Center with bikes for people experiencing homelessness, addiction, and poverty.

“Transportation is a frequent barrier for individuals and families experiencing homelessness,” Stephen Center Executive Director Michael Wehling said. “Having bicycles available to kids and adults alike is both practical, healthy and fun! We are grateful to Team Bike Rescue for their partnership.”

To provide the best bike-riding experience, donations of new bike helmets for men, women, and children, as well as bike locks, are being accepted at Stephen Center, 2723 Q St. The items are also available to purchase and ship directly to Stephen Center on the organization’s Amazon Smile Wishlist.

Located in South Omaha, Stephen Center serves the homeless, addicted, and those in poverty. The campus includes a homeless emergency shelter, inpatient/outpatient co-occurring treatment and permanent supportive housing for disabled and low-income individuals. In 2020, Stephen Center provided services to 1,278 men, women, and children and served more than 200,000 meals to people experiencing homelessness, addiction, and poverty. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Bags of Fun Omaha Announces First FamilyFocused Cornhole Tournament Fundraiser Mark your family calendars for August 1 from noon to 5 p.m. for Bags of Fun Omaha’s first family-fun Cor nhole Tournament fundraiser! The event will be at The Barn at the Ackerhurst Dairy Farm (The Barn) and promises an afternoon of fun for the entire family—at the same time providing support for children and families facing the most challenging of medical diagnoses. Join in the fun to help raise funds so Bags of Fun can deliver more bags to children needing joy, laughter, and relief while they battle life-threatening illnesses in the Omaha community.

Enter the adult tournament for a serious competition or the family tournament for a little fun competition against other families. All ages are welcome to attend, and children 12 and under are free. Team tickets are $125, and individual registrations for the tournament are $75. Spectator tickets are just $35, and sponsorship packages are available and appreciated.

The Bags of Fun program impacts the children, families and medical providers who are facing devastating medical diagnoses. A Bag of Fun allows children fighting for their lives a little playful distraction instead of fear, gives families a chance to laugh together, and provides medical providers with a tool that allows them to see their patients as playful children instead of a crushing diagnosis. Laughter is a powerful form of healing and medicine. For more information about the nonprofit, visit bagsoffun.org. To register for the Bags of Fun Cornhole Tournament at The Barn, visit bagsoffun.org/events/ omaha-2021-bags-for-bags-event or contact Amy Krause at (402) 651-3587 / Amyk@bagsoffun.org.

JUNE 2021 Strictly Business 29

NONPROFIT NEWS Best Care EAP to Host Next Quarterly HR Insight Series Session, Monthly Training

Habitat Omaha and Aflac to Host Charity Golf Tournament at Tiburon on July 8

On Tuesday, June 8 at 9 a.m., Best Care EAP will present a free virtual session on Workplace Safety.

Guest speaker will be Doug Fletcher, former area director of OSHA and now independent consultant of Fletcher Safety Consulting, Inc. With more than 30 years of experience in health and safety, Doug will talk to HR and leadership professionals on how Workplace Safety and Health Affects Everyone!

Additionally, please join Best Care EAP for their next free virtual training session on Wednesday, June 16 at 9 a.m. for Connecting with Counseling: Get to Know Your EAP. Best Care EAP Manager and Licensed Mental Health Practitioner Robyn Burnett and Training Consultant Kim Hurst will dive into the most common challenges and barriers that prevent so many in seeking professional mental-health support. This session will help normalize the everyday issues that so many are experiencing (especially since the onset of the pandemic), how/where to turn to help when in need, and how to point others in the right direction to appropriate resources.

Best Care EAP offers emotional/mental health support to your employees, helping them focus on their jobs when problems in their personal lives get overwhelming. Best Care also offers a number of professionaldevelopment options, performance coaching, and leadership training to help your organization be the best that it can be. To register for either of the upcoming programs, please email Best Care at EAP@ BestCareEAP.org, call (402) 354-8000, or visit www.bestcareeap.org and view upcoming training and events under the Services tab.

Get your teams ready for a Charity Golf Tournament hosted by Habitat for Humanity of Omaha and Aflac at Tiburon Golf Club on July 8! The tournament will be held in a four-person scramble format. The cost is $600 for a foursome or $1,000 for a foursome and hole sponsorship, with all proceeds benefiting Habitat Omaha. The tournament will begin with a shotgun start at 11:30 a.m.

Registration can be completed by visiting bit.ly/tgc-hfh-golf.

Habitat for Humanity of Omaha was founded in 1984 and is a grassroots organization that specializes in building and renovating homes, forging community partnerships, and breaking down barriers.

The organization takes pride in the growth and maintenance of the quality, affordable housing stock in Burt County, Omaha, Sarpy County, Washington County, and Waterloo, while increasing homeownership opportunities throughout the area. Habitat Omaha has partnered with about 2,150 families since their beginnings. For more information about the Charity Golf Tournament or Habitat Omaha, visit habitatomaha.org or contact Development Associate Kathy Wells at (402) 884-5957 / kwells@habitatomaha.org.

NAM Grant Writing and Fundraising Palooza to Provide Critical Skills, Tips, Best Practices If you are part of a nonprofit organization with fundraising needs, the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) is hosting a two-day Grant Writing and Fundraising Palooza that can help you achieve your goals. On Tuesday, June 15 and Wednesday, June 16, NAM will lead two days of webinars on all things grant writing and fundraising. Participants will learn critical skills from experts, hear from local funders, and network with peers to share ideas about grant writing and fundraising best practices. The nine hours of content will include breakout sessions on topics, including The Psychology of Giving, Online Fundraising Performance, Utilizing the Logic Model in Grant Writing, Fundraising Events, Demystifying Reporting, and Evaluation.

The Grant Writing and Fundraising Palooza will include a keynote presentation, “Asking thru Adversity,” from Matt Lehrman of Social Prosperity Partners. He will talk about being more caring, creative, and compelling with donors, members, sponsors, and other stakeholders. Participants will emerge with 12 specific actions to weave strength into their nonprofits’ fundraising efforts in the face of disruption and uncertainty. The cost to attend is $150 for NAM members and $300 for not-yet members.

The Nonprofit Association of the Midlands is a state association that represents more than 700 nonprofit organizations in Nebraska and southwest Iowa. NAM strengthens the collective voice, leadership, and capacity of nonprofits to enrich the quality of community life throughout Nebraska and Western Iowa. NAM also is recognized as the State Association for Nebraska by the National Council of Nonprofits, the nation’s largest network of nonprofits. Register for the Grant Writing and Fundraising Palooza at nonprofitam.org/events or contact Rosey Higgs at Rosey@nonprofitam.org for more information.

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Midlands Community Foundation Awards Grants Totaling Over $115K Midlands Community Foundation ( M C F ) h a s a wa r d e d g ra n t s totaling $115,654 to 36 nonprofit organizations serving Sarpy and Cass counties. MCF hosted a Zoom grant reception where the recipients were able to share their stories, including: Angels Among Us - $3,000; Arts for All - $2,200; Assure Women’s Center - $4,000; Autism Action Partnership - $3,000; Banister’s Leadership Academy - $2,500; Bellevue Little Theatre - $3,260; Bike Walk Nebraska - $4,000; Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands - $1,500; Cass County CASA - $3,000; Dragon Football Booster Club - $1,425; Elmwood Senior Center - $3,500; First Responders Foundation - $5,000; Fontenelle Forest - $3,000; Gretna Band Parents - $1,200; Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy $5,535; Justice for Our Neighbors dba Immigrant Legal Center - $2,500; The Life House - $3,000; Lift Up Sarpy County - $2,500; Little Giants Foundation - $1,000; The Lofte Association - $4,000; Martin Graves, Bellevue American Legion Post 339 - $4,000; Mercy Housing Midwest $3,000; Merrymakers Association - $2,500; Mosaic in Omaha - $4,000; Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries - $5,300; Omaha Conservatory of Music - $2,500; Papillion LaVista Community Theatre - $1,500; Papillion LaVista Schools Foundation - $5,000; Plattsmouth Conservancy, Inc. $1,500; Plattsmouth Police Department - $5,234; Project Pink’d - $5,000 ($2,500 MCF; $2,500 match from Auntie Em’s Angels Fund); Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office Foundation - $2,000; Share A Fare - $2,500; Special Olympics Nebraska - $3,000; TeamMates Mentoring Program of Bellevue - $2,500; and Tri City Food Pantry - $7,000.

This is the second of two grant distributions for Midlands Community Foundation’s fiscal year. The next grant deadline will be August 1, 2021, with funds distributed in October. Through its grants program, Midlands Community Foundation places an emphasis on prevention and education.

The Foundation has a strong commitment toward programs benefiting health, art, culture, community, economic development, education, and human services. Learn more at www.midlandscommunity.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS First Responders Foundation to Host First Responders & Military Appreciation Night The First Responders Foundation (FRF) invites the public to the First Responders & Military Appreciation Night at I-80 Speedway on July 2. This special night will honor first responders and veterans across the state of Nebraska. The night will begin with a reverse tribute lap where first responder vehicles representing police and fire agencies will circle the track backward to honor all who serve and protect the citizens of our great state, as well as those who have given their lives. During intermission of the racing, a Guns & Hoses Competition will feature police officers racing firefighters to see who can handle a race car with the most precision! Come see who will take home the gold—Red or Blue? There will be a 50/50 raffle with proceeds going to support the FRF Behavioral Health Services for first responders and their families.

The First Responders Foundation has a race team with three race cars that compete in racing events in Nebraska and Iowa. These cars are raced by local first responders, and on each car is a picture of one or more local fallen police and firefighters. The cars are raced to honor those officers, to build appreciation and respect for first responders, and to raise funds and bring awareness for needed behavioral health services.

For more information on the First Responders Foundation and tickets to the I-80 event, visit www.firstrespondersfoundation.org, email contact@ firstrespondersfoundation.org, or call (402) 218-1234.

Goodwill Omaha Celebrates Relocation, Opening of Two Stores at Canfield’s Plaza I n M ay 2 0 2 0 , G o o dw i l l Industries, Inc., Serving Eastern Nebraska and Southwest Iowa (Goodwill Omaha), relocated two of its stores—the retail store and donation center at 83rd and Spring Streets and the GoodBytes recycled computer store—to Canfield’s Plaza, 8457 West Center Rd. Due to COVID-19, the original grand opening plans were canceled, so Goodwill celebrated this year with a first-anniversary grand opening event on May 14. A ribbon cutting with the Greater Omaha Chamber kicked off the celebration, followed by an iHeartRadio remote hosted by Steve Lundy from the KAT 103.7.

There was face-painting and balloon animals with Loli Pop dah Clown and lunch served in the parking lot. The retail store also held hourly raffle drawings, and the human resources team was on site to accept applications and conduct on-the-spot interviews for available positions at Goodwill Omaha. Job seekers also had the chance to chat with representatives from Goodwill's Employment Solutions program to learn about their free job training, certification, and placement program.

In December 2019, Goodwill Omaha purchased the building where Canfield’s Sporting Goods resided for 71 years, intending to make a new home for its store and build out a larger space for its GoodBytes store, previously located at 72nd and F Streets. Today, the Canfield’s Plaza also houses a training room for Goodwill’s Work Experience program, which helps high-school students with disabilities gain exposure to work situations in a supportive environment and prepare them for the transition from an educational setting to the working world.

For more information about Goodwill Industries, Inc. Serving Eastern Nebraska and Southwest Iowa or their 18 regional locations, visit goodwillomaha.org or follow them on Facebook and Twitter (@ goodwillomaha) and YouTube (@goodwillomahatv). #PrintProudDigitalSmart

YMCA Community Classic Golf Tourney Tees off June 11 at the Dodge Riverside Golf Club The public is invited to join in the fun at the YMCA Community Classic golf tournament, hosted by YMCA of Greater Omaha, at Dodge Riverside Golf Club on Friday, June 11.

The event will benefit the YMCA’s Strong Communities Campaign. Check-in for players begins at 10 a.m., and the tournament tees off at 11 a.m. An entry fee of $100 per individual or $400 per foursome covers a golf cart, boxed lunch, post-play Snack & Sip, and prizes. Best ball, mulligan, and raffle tickets are available at check-in.

The YMCA Strong Communities Campaign is a community-based fundraising effort to strengthen the quality of life for our children, families, and neighbors. Funds raised provide scholarships & free programs to those in need to ensure EVERYONE has access to high quality, affordable programs that will enhance their life & community. If you can’t play but would like to donate to the campaign, visit metroymca.org/give.

To learn more about YMCA of Greater Omaha or to become a sponsor, contact John Monson at (402) 977-4312 or jmonson@metroymca.org.

Child Saving Institute Raises Nearly $477K for Kids During Cabaret 2021 Child Saving Institute’s (CSI) Board of Directors and Guild Board hosted the agency’s largest fundraiser of the year, Cabaret 2021, on May 8 at the Embassy Suites Omaha La Vista Hotel & Conference Center. The event raised nearly $477,000 to help (L-R), Event chairs David and Melanie Omaha-area children and Hecker, comedian Pat McGann and cofamilies. Funds raised during chairs Adrienne and Patrick Fay the evening support CSI’s quality programs, including parenting workshops, an emergency shelter for youth, therapy, older child adoption, foster care, independent living skills for youth transitioning to adulthood, pediatric social work, and developmental early childhood education. Event chairs were Melanie and David Hecker; co-chairs were Adrienne and Patrick Fay. The event’s honorary chairs were Carrie and John Jenkins.

Participants enjoyed a performance by nationally touring comedian, Pat McGann, who is quickly rising as one of the sharpest stand-ups in the comedy world. While touring with Sebastian Maniscalco, McGann found his niche connecting with crowds on everyday topics. As a husband and father of three young children, McGann’s appeal stems from his quick wit and relatable take on family life and marriage.

This event was made possible by generous supporters. A special thank you to: Melanie and David Hecker, Carrie and John Jenkins, the Patterson Family, Diventures, the Heider Family Foundation, Kiewit Corporation, Henry Davis and Christina Fazzone, Wanda and Mike Gottschalk, Sue and George Haddix, Melissa and Abe Schumacher, Lindsay Corporation, the Shikhar and Kristin Saxena Family Foundation, and Valmont Industries.

Child Saving Institute is dedicated to the prevention, intervention, and healing of child abuse, neglect, and trauma. For 129 years, CSI has been “Responding to the cry of a child” and meeting the changing needs of metro area children. CSI served more than 2,300 children and families in 2020. To learn more about CSI and the programs and services offered, please visit www.childsaving.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS The Hope Center Unveils Schenzel Community Center, Seeks Sponsorships for Annual Gala

Heartland Hope Mission to Hold 2nd Annual Red, White, & Blue Block Party on June 26

The Hope Center for Kids is hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new Schenzel Community Center, 2220 N 20th St., on Wednesday, June 9 at 1 p.m. Space for the ribbon cutting is limited, so reservations are required at hopecenterforkids.org. The former “Hope Skate” indoor roller-skating rink is relaunching as a space for North Omaha community members to enjoy activities, learning opportunities, recreation, rental spaces and more—all within a supportive and healthy environment.

Named in honor of the late Ty and Terri Schenzel, founders of The Hope Center, the community center has daily hours of operation, offering activities for children, youth, families, adults, and seniors, as well as community events. The center exists to support both The Hope Center for Kids and the North Omaha community with low-cost community-centric programs (and of course, roller-skating!).

In addition, the 2021 “Return to Hope” Gala will be Thursday, October 7 at the Omaha Marriott Downtown Capitol District and will feature comedic thought leader Michael Jr.—who shares encouragement all around the world using comedy and dynamic storytelling. The Hope Center is looking for sponsors for this event, which is in its 14th year. For sponsorships or to purchase a table for 10, contact Emily Gerhardt at egerhardt@hopecenterforkids.com.

To learn more about The Hope Center’s after-school and summer programs, or its nearly 23-year history in North Omaha, go to hopecenterforkids.org. For more information about the new community center, visit schenzelcommunitycenter.org.

Heartland Hope Mission is excited to announce that they will be holding their 2nd Annual Red, White, & Blue Block Party on Saturday, June 26 at their South Omaha location, 2021 U St. This is a free, family-friendly event for all ages. Enjoy live music, free food, waterslides, yard games, and more! They also have a great opportunity for businesses, churches, and other organizations to rent a booth at this event and share their stories.

Saving Grace Presents Food for Thought Event on Reducing Household Food Waste Saving Grace Perishable Food Rescue has announced a Food for Thought event on Thursday, June 3 at 4:30 p.m. via Zoom to offer tips on how to reduce food waste. Anna Curry, a registered dietitian and director of culinary and nutrition programming at Whispering Roots, will talk about the best ways to store foods to keep them edible longer. She will also help demystify the many food labels terms. The event is free, and you can register at tinyurl.com/95rhenzk.

Raising awareness and educating the community about wasted food also is an important part of Saving Grace’s work. Reduction of household food waste has economic and environmental benefits: • A Penn State study notes food waste could be costing the average U.S. household about $1,866 per year. This wasted food has an estimated aggregate value of $240 billion annually.

• More food reaches landfills than any other single material in everyday trash, according to the EPA. ReFED estimates Nebraska generated 404,000 tons of surplus food in 2019. The largest portion of this—40.1%—was from residential sources. The top four causes of surplus food in Nebraska are trimmings and byproducts, excess food, spoiled food, and date label concerns, according to ReFED’s Insights report. More information and tips, along with a recap of the presentation, will be available after the event on Saving Grace’s website at savinggracefoodrescue. org. If you are a food vendor interested in learning how you can donate excess perishable food, call (402) 913-6776.

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Heartland Hope Mission operates one of the largest food pantries in the state, but they are "More Than a Pantry" since they help families work toward self-sufficiency. They primarily serve working poor families and those facing a crisis by providing a week’s supply of food, as well as clothing, diapers, job resources, and community referrals. Like and follow Heartland Hope Mission on Facebook (@HeartlandHopeMission), LinkedIn (@heartlandhope-mission), and Instagram (@heartlandhopemission) to stay upto-date on all the important work they are doing in the community.

For more information about booth rental, please email Amanda@ HeartlandHopeMission.org. To learn more about the Red, White, & Blue Block Party, visit HeartlandHopeMission.org.

NICU Specialist Nancy Novotny Leads New NALA Program for Tiny, Fragile Rescue Pets Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Specialist Nancy Novotny is leading an exciting new NICU program at Nebraska Animal Loving Advocates (NALA) to care for the nonprofit’s tiniest, most fragile rescue animals. Nancy is a pro in areas ranging from bottle feeding, fluid therapy, and feeding tubes, and while she would love to share her craft with other NALA volunteers, be forewarned that this is not for everyone. NALA’s premature and motherless animals need people who can tend to them every two to three hours. If you have a schedule that fits a NICU lifestyle, please let Nancy know and she will train you along the way. NALA is extremely excited to add this special and unique program to help care for the pets they rescue!

NALA's mission is to revolutionize the way people think about animals and animal rescue. NALA educates people about the dangers of puppy mills and the realities of backyard breeders, in their effort to provide loving homes to all the dogs and cats they encounter, including the feral, the unwanted, the damaged, and the lost. NALA believes that every living creature not only deserves love but also has so much love to offer. NALA approaches this mission through their core values of love for all living things and faith that our culture can change, and together we can create a world where rescues are no longer needed.

If you are interested in adopting, fostering, volunteering, or donating, visit nalarescue.org. NALA is now also on Tiktok (@nalarescue), where you’ll find captivating videos of their rescued animals—and can watch several of them participate in a recent wedding! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS Vision Maker Media Celebrates 4 New Films by, about Native Americans, Alaska Natives

Assistance League Invites Community to Grand Reopening of Thrift Shop, June 2-5

Vision Maker Media is celebrating four new films in its library, continuing their tradition as the premier source of public media by and about Native Americans and Alaska Natives for 45 years. Without a Whisper explores the untold story of how Indigenous women influenced the early suffragists in their fight for freedom and equality. Blood Memory follows the untold history of America’s Indian Adoption Era when nearly one-third of children were removed from tribal communities nationwide. As political scrutiny over Indian child welfare intensifies, a survivor of the Adoption Era helps others find their way home through song and ceremony.

Also added recently was Sisters Rising, which is the story of six Native women fighting to heal their society crippled for far too long by violence against Indigenous women in the United States. Finally, Vision Maker Media has added Chasing Voices to its library. It is the extraordinary life’s journey of controversial ethnographer John Peabody Harrington, who compiled well over 1 million pages of notes about more than 100 different Native American languages during his 50-year career.

Vision Maker Media is a nonprofit established in 1976 with support from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and Nebraska Educational Television (NET). Find airings of these four films in your area by checking your local PBS listings, or visiting pbs.org/ tv_schedules/. Learn about Vision Make Media’s full collection of high-quality films by visiting visionmakermedia.org.

A f t e r t h e i r N o ve m b e r 2 0 2 0 move to their fabulous new and expanded Thrift Shop at 8502 West Center Rd., Assistance League of Omaha (ALO) has been open on an abbreviated, COVID-conscious schedule. Then, on May 26, ALO was able to go back to their normal four days a week sc hedule of Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

To celebrate this return, ALO will host a Grand Reopening week of daily specials and a drawing for a gift certificate June 2 through June 5. The Thrift Shop will also now be accepting donations from the public. Donations can be dropped off any time the shop is open, in addition to Mondays from 9 a.m. to noon.

Stop by and check out the great selection of women’s and men’s clothing, shoes, accessories, and jewelry at ALO's Thrift Shop, plus a huge selection of decorator and household items—and lots of books.

They also have small furniture items, at times. In-store specials run every day, with normal clearance items for as low as $2. There are a lot of fun things to browse, and every dollar spent at the shop goes to the philanthropic programs that ALO supports, which make a real difference in the community.

Assistance League of Omaha has operated in Omaha since 1976. Their signature programs are Operation School Bell®, Assault Survivor Kits, Operation Recovery, Operation Bear Hug, Operation Literacy, and ACT/ PSAT Review Sessions. To learn more about ALO, visit ALOmaha.org.

FAMILY Inc.'s Oral Health Team Coordinates ‘Give Kids a Smile Day’ with Local Dentists FAMILY Inc.'s oral health team, I-Smile, worked with the Iowa Department of Public Health to coordinate Give Kids a Smile Day on February 5. In its 14th year, local dentists provided free preventive dental care and necessary treatments to more than 100 children from the Council Bluffs Community School District. According to Liz Addison, I-Smile coordinator at FAMILY Inc. and organizer of Give Kids a Smile Day, each student had their teeth cleaned by a dental hygienist and got an exam and an X-ray. Participating dental groups included My Pediatric Dentist Bayliss Park, Broadway Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, New Image Dentistry, Omni Dental Centre, Stuntz Family Dentistry, and Children’s Dentistry of Council Bluffs.

“There were extractions, some fillings, and one child who needed a root canal,” Liz said. "Since it’s a pretty involved procedure, the provider will perform the root canal during a follow-up visit—but still at no cost to the student’s family."

Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic diseases of childhood, affecting nearly half of U.S. children ages 2-19. Rates are highest in children from low-income and racial/ethnic minority backgrounds.

Untreated decay can cause chronic infections, abscesses, mouth pain, problems eating and sleeping, growth delay, school absence, and poor wellbeing. In rare cases, it can cause sepsis and death.

The FAMILY Inc.'s I-Smile dental home project includes infrastructure building within the community of stakeholders, population-based activities such as oral health education presentations and promotions, enabling services (including outreach, informing, and care coordination), and gap-filling direct services (including oral health screenings, fluoride varnishes, and sealants). To learn more, visit www.familyia.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Spirit of Courage Golf Tournament, Gala to Benefit Jennie Edmundson Hospital The Jennie Edmundson Foundation is excited to present Spirit of Courage Weekend, a benefit to raise funds for the Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital – Cancer Center Charitable Patient Care Fund. The first event on Saturday, August 7, is a golf tournament at Dodge Riverside Golf Club in Council Bluffs.

Registration begins at 8 a.m. with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. This event includes continental breakfast, green fees with cart, beverages, snacks, and lunch. Sponsorships are also available by purchasing a “Business Card” sign for a golf cart. There are also Tee Box Sponsorships, which include a two-sided A-Frame sign placed on a tee box. The weekend continues with the Spirit of Courage Gala the same evening, at the Mid-America Center, starting with cocktails and a silent auction at 6 p.m. To follow, there will be dinner and the recognition program of the 2021 Spirit of Courage recipients. These cancer survivors will leave no dry eye in the room.

Since 2003, Spirit of Courage events have raised nearly $2 million, 100% of which has been donated to the Cancer Center Charitable Patient Care Fund. It helps to ease the financial burdens of Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital cancer patients in the areas of medications, treatments, and deductibles, as well as everyday living expenses.

Support the Jennie Edmundson Foundation by participating or sponsoring these Spirit of Courage events. Registration forms can be found at jehfoundation.org/events/spirit-of-courage. If you have questions, call (712) 396-6040.

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HEALTH NEWS Female Sexual Arousal Disorder Study Underway at Quality Clinical Research

Clearwater Counseling Highlights Importance of Mental Health During Men’s Health Month

Quality Clinical Research (QCR) is now enrolling for a sexual dysfunction study among women. Rarely do we hear much about women struggling with arousal, but it is far more common than one might like to think. Nearly 40% of premenopausal women experience some form of sexual dysfunction in their lives and may not even realize it.

That’s why QCR's new study is focusing on bringing to light the struggles that many women have, but aren’t always willing to talk about. If you believe you may have some form of sexual dysfunction, contact QCR for more information about the study.

Quality Clinical Research is a multi-specialty clinical research site based in Omaha. Since 2003, they have had the pleasure of working with and assisting the great people of Omaha, and with their team of dedicated physicians and staff, they hope to continue being a part of your community for many years to come. With over 700 studies under their belt, QCR is confident in their ability to safely and appropriately conduct clinical trials for any and all that sign up. If you’re interested in the Female Sexual Arousal Disorder trial or would like to know more about some of the other studies, you can find more information at www.QCRomaha.com or by calling (402) 934-0044.

Throughout the month of June, Clearwater Counseling is celebrating Men's Health Month by bringing important information and insight to the forefront. Recognizing this annual observance once again makes it evident how important mental health is to overall wellness. Suicide, one of the top 10 causes of death, is more than three times as likely to be a cause of death for men than women. Instead of seeking help, some men may attempt to "selfmedicate" through substance use and alcohol, which only deepens depression and encourages impulsive tendencies.

One major reason that men do not seek help for their depression is the stigma surrounding mental health, while another is the lack of communication or expressing feelings. Clearwater Counseling encourages parents to start talking to their sons about this behavior early on so that male youth know it is completely acceptable to express their feelings and admit when they need help.

Clearwater Counseling works with clients who are struggling with a variety of mental health diagnoses including depression, relationship issues, stress, grief/loss/trauma, addiction and recovery, co-dependency, anxiety and phobias, parenting problems, sexual abuse and incest, physical abuse and violence, and more. To learn more about staff, services, or resources, visit clearwatercounselingpc. org. To schedule an appointment with Clearwater Counseling, or for more information about mental health services, please call (308) 210-8487 or email info@clearwatercounselingne.org.

Heart Association Highlights Unique Risks Women Face for High Blood Pressure, Stroke The American Heart Association is putting increased emphasis on women’s health this summer, including education efforts to teach women about the unique risks they face for high blood pressure and stroke. Women have a lot on their plates, and sometimes important self-care can take a back seat to work, family, and other obligations.

In fact, nearly 50% of adult women have high blood pressure, and nearly three-quarters of those with high blood pressure don’t have it under control. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can significantly increase a woman’s risk for a stroke, but a few important steps can help reduce that risk and give women (and their loved ones) one less thing to worry about.

“While high blood pressure isn’t directly linked to gender, different health issues throughout a woman’s life, such as birth control, pregnancy, and menopause, can increase the risk of developing high blood pressure, which can increase the risk of stroke if left uncontrolled,” according to Dr. Monik Jiménez, a volunteer with the American Heart Association / American Stroke Association, associate epidemiologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and assistant professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Fortunately, 80% of strokes may be prevented and lowering high blood pressures reduces stroke risk. Women can measure their blood pressure at home regularly and let their doctors know if it’s normally above 120/80.

In addition, lifestyle adjustments such as getting enough exercise, eating healthfully, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking can go a long way to reduce women’s disease risk from high blood pressure.

The American Heart Association and its American Stroke Association division represent a relentless force for a world with fewer strokes and longer, healthier lives. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-888-4STROKE or visit stroke.org. For more information and tips about women’s health and stroke prevention at all stages of life, visit GoRedForWomen.org/Risk.

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Red Cross Sound the Alarm Program Focuses on Preparing Families for Home Fires In the middle of their Sound the Alarm campaign to heighten awareness about fire safety in homes, volunteers for the American Red Cross found themselves tending to the needs of residents affected by nine single-home fires in Nebraska during just the first weekend in May. The busy weekend of helping households recover from the fires sounded the alarm, indeed, about the need for fire-safety education in the state. Through its Sound the Alarm campaign, the American Red Cross is employing targeted outreach with community partners to connect—mostly virtually—with families to provide education about fire safety.

For starters, the Red Cross finds that most people don’t realize that they have just two minutes to escape a home fire. The Red Cross recommends that families take two simple steps to be safe: Create an escape plan; and regularly test smoke alarms. Escape plans should include two ways out of each room of the home to outside. Plans should also include a meeting point that is a safe distance from the home. Smoke alarms should be located on each level of your home and tested by pressing the test button. If you hear three beeps, the alarm is working. If not, it is time to change the batteries. If your smoke alarm is more than 10 years old, it is time to get a new alarm, and if you do not have working smoke alarms currently installed, request free smoke alarms and installation via redcross.org/smokealarmNE. The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. For more information about their fire safety program, visit redcross.org/sound-the-alarm or follow them on Facebook and Twitter (@NEIARedCross). #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Senior Health Senior health and wellness have always been priorities for the seniorliving industry, but maybe no more so than they have since the advent of COVID-19 into all of our lives. In fact, you would be challenged to find a single senior-living company or community that is operating just as it did before March 2020. As the senior population has received COVID vaccinations and some restrictions have begun to loosen, senior communities and in-home services and activities are coming back and brightening the hearts of seniors across the region.

See The Trainer® Midwest is a great place to go for all the medical supplies and assists our bodies need as we age. They are a medicalsupply company that specializes in the sale of orthopedic bracing, sports medicine, rehabilitation, and home-health products, and they work with insurance companies to help defray associated costs.

“See The Trainer is in-network with most private insurances and is able to file Medicare and Medicaid,” said Owner Kristie Egan. “Just ask your health care provider to call us and ask for more details regarding coverage or product details.”

Many of the products that See The Trainer Midwest carries include things that are highly beneficial to seniors, whether they are living at home or in a care facility or community.

“Folding walkers, compression stockings, back Kristie Egan braces, posture supports, and various canes See The Trainer® Midwest are just some of the products that we carry in house,” Kristie said. “We also have a number of vendors that carry valuable products for seniors that we can always order. These products include seated walkers, compression gloves, or virtually any other product that is found useful. If you have any other questions or you want to learn more about See The Trainer, visit us at seethetrainer.com/location/omaha-ne or call us at (402) 493-4747!”

Small and Mighty Many seniors will do all they can to continue living in their own homes, where they may have lived their entire lives. Even if the time comes that they need a little help getting around or completing everyday tasks on their own, Key Home Care will do everything they can to help them stay where they want to be. Theirs is not a huge corporation, but a mighty one. Founder and Owner Sandra Miller built the company with the mission to ensure seniors can maintain their independence by providing compassionate and experienced care.

“For most of my adult life, I’ve worked with seniors, and over the years I have found that we can learn so much from them, and we owe them so much for everything they’ve done,” Sandra Miller Sandra said. “Being able to serve them is truly Key Home Care #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Everyone Has A Story Make Us A Part of Yours...

Trusted non-medical home care provider

402.506.9368

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www.Omahaseniorcare.org 402.827.6000 JUNE 2021 Strictly Business

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an honor. They are treasures and being able to help them stay wherever they call home, that’s what we strive to do.”

Key Home Care provides personal caregivers for all your specific needs, as well as 24-hour support, free in-home consultations, and even compassionate and attentive bedside sitters. Being a smaller company allows them to provide uniquely personalized care by on-staff caregivers and basically build an extended family with clients and their loved ones.

“We treat every client as an individual,” Sandra said. “There is no blanket care plan, answer, or way to provide treatment for clients. Everyone has their unique experiences and unique wants and needs, and we try to meet them there. I am the owner and have met just about every client.

We are small, and we take a lot of time in matching up our caregivers with our clients. All of my clients, their families, and my employees have my cell phone number. I maintain an open-door policy with all of them.”

Navigating Your Journey Oasis Senior Advisors Omaha is another phenomenal option to guide you in your search for senior care and make sure your loved one feels safe, comfortable, and happy while living somewhere affordable and a place that feels like home. Oasis understands that with all the senior-living options available for families to choose from, finding the right one with your loved one can be overwhelming. That’s why they offer FREE housing services for you and your family. Owned by Kyle Johnson, Oasis Senior Advisors is there to walk you through it and help you find the community or living option that is exactly right for your loved one’s needs, likes, and budget.

Kyle Johnson “We currently partner with over 65 retirement communities to help find a perfect forever Oasis Senior Advisors Omaha and CCA home,” Kyle said. “Each community offers Home Care different services and amenities, so it’s best

to work with an advisor to navigate that process rather than take hours and do all of the homework on your own. We will only recommend communities that fit your financial, medical, and geographical preferences in the Omaha Metro area. An Oasis Senior Advisor will stay with you from the start to finish, even joining you on tours of communities to ensure your questions are being answered and concerns are being addressed.”

Oasis Senior Advisors is part of a national franchise and is an equal opportunity partner in searching for your forever home. Whether you are 100% independent and just want to downsize your home or your loved one needs high-level memory care, they are able to find the perfect fit right here in Omaha.

Affordable At-Home Care If you or a loved one is not ready to move into a senior-living community but needs a little help to stay safely at home, CCA Home Care is there for you. Also owned by Kyle Johnson, CCA Home Care is the area’s most affordable home-care solution and screens and refers certified nurse assistant (CNA) level caregivers who work privately for clients in their own homes. CCA caregivers are available to help with things like morning and evening routines, companionship throughout the day, medication reminders and administration, and transportation to and from personal appointments. Throughout the pandemic, CCA Home Care has helped seniors adapt to change and thrive.

“The pandemic has changed everything we were once used to,” said Kyle said. “This industry has stayed true to serving our elderly population and has made the appropriate adjustments required to reduce the stresses of change. Many caregivers are receiving the COVID-19 vaccination, which should reduce the concerns of transmitting the virus as we begin to return to normal. CCA Home Care is recording all caregivers who have received their vaccinations and can provide that information to any client prior to allowing a visitor in your home.”

Cognitive Caregivers If your loved one is experiencing memory issues due to Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia and the time has come that it is

You’re Ready.

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Signature Communities: Lakeside & Pacific Springs Arboretum Village, Immanuel Village, Trinity Village Affiliated with the Nebraska Synod, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

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safest for them to move to senior living, your options are multitudinous, but one of the top-notch facilities to consider is Prairie Meadows Alzheimer’s Care Center. It is a specialized Memory Care community that provides exceptional person-centered holistic care to residents with cognitive impairment. They take your loved one’s health and happiness seriously and offer unique programming for residents that helps stimulate the brain.

“We do a lot of psychosocial programming for residents,” said Prairie Meadows Community Resource Director Don Woods. It is important to challenge our residents. We also do daily exercises with our seniors in our community as well as have a walking club that takes walks around our community every afternoon.

Our residents are 100% vaccinated, as are most of our team members. We are offering ongoing vaccination options to help in doing our part, and we have provided a host of education opportunities for our team Don Woods members, families, and residents to help in Prairie Meadows making their decisions about vaccination.”

Alzheimer’s Care Center While going through the pandemic has been challenging for everyone, Prairie Meadows is finding a bright side: They are finding that families of residents treasure their visits with their loved ones more than ever before. It seems that distance truly did make their hearts grow fonder—and the residents, their families, and the Prairie Meadows staff are all beneficiaries! In more exciting news, if you’re ready to see Prairie Meadows live and in-person, they’re ready for you again!

Thrive!

If you’re looking for a senior-living community that focuses on providing whole body-and-mind health, be certain to consider Immanuel Communities. Their Thrive by Immanuel program offers comprehensive life enrichment support for Immanuel residents. The approach was created by their senior-living experts and incorporates nine elements of whole-person wellness: music, wellness, connection, faith, recreation, community, creativity, service, and lifelong learning. “ T h r i ve p ro g ra m m i n g h a s b e e n a foundation to resident wellbeing as we responded to a global pandemic,” said Immanuel Vice President Marketing, Sales and Communication Jennifer Knecht.

“Our dedicated employees were able to reimagine our guiding elements to remain focused on overall wellbeing and safety for those we serve. During the last year, we have helped residents learn how to use Zoom, FaceTime, Facebook and other social media to connect with Jennifer Knecht their families; we’ve created broadcast Immanuel Communities fitness resources that residents could view from their apartments; and we organized phone clubs, balcony exercises, courtyard concerts, and more.

Plus, our resident portals, or touchscreen devices available at many Immanuel Communities, helped residents stay connected with community employees and services.”

In non-pandemic times, Immanuel’s state-of-the-art wellness centers include indoor pools, spas, wellness classes, and one-on-one training opportunities that help residents achieve goals like managing a chronic condition or getting ready for a trip or special event.

Following their vaccination clinics and successful ongoing infectioncontrol practices, residents are excited to see many of these services reopen in limited capacity.

“Spiritual support is another key aspect to life at Immanuel,” Jennifer said. “As a mission-driven, faith-based organization, we’re thrilled to offer onsite pastoral support for residents of all faiths. Whether that’s help after a life-changing event or a supportive hand during uncertain times, our onsite pastors provide phenomenal benefit across our campuses.” #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Cornerstone of Care Established in 1906, Midwest Geriatrics, Inc.’s Florence Home Healthcare Center has long been a cornerstone of senior care in Omaha. Located in the heart of Florence, it is a skilled nursing community renowned for treating their residents and families with care, respect, confidence, support, and respite. While the pandemic definitely served up its challenges, Midwest Geriatrics provided quality care for residents throughout, going above and beyond to keep them happy and healthy.

Now they are excited to be returning to more normal activities.

“Our staff and residents started receiving the vaccinations as soon as they were available to us in January,” said Midwest Geriatrics CEO Lois Jordan. “Since then, our residents have been able to resume dining and activities together while maintaining safe distances as the CDC and CMS recommends. There are still some individuals concerned about the safety of the vaccine and the length of effectiveness, but our pharmacy team is consistently educating staff and residents and offers new information as soon as it is available.”

Lois Jordan Midwest Geriatrics, Inc. One of the most exciting changes, Lois said, is that residents and family members now are able to have more frequent in-person visits, while using proper personal protective equipment (PPE). Isolation from friends and family as a result of the pandemic was hard on everyone. With the high vaccination rate, the CDC has lifted some of the restrictions, and people are feeling a sense of relief.

Aging in Place If your loved one wants to remain at home but needs some level of assistance to stay there, you’ll also want to consider Right at Home In Home Care & Assistance. They offer top-shelf caregiving services for almost any family and situation in southeast Omaha and southwest Iowa.

Their in-home care lets loved ones enjoy health lives in the comfort of a familiar environment.

“We believe in the mission, principles, and values that Right at Home was built on and try to live up to those standards in all we do,” said Right at Home Franchise Owner Kristi Benning. “We try every day to be of service to both groups. We take seriously our responsibility to those who are in need by either providing the Right Care with our wonderful care-team members, or by being a resource for them while they figure out what’s best for their future. We are excited to offer consistent, high-quality standards and Kristi Benning care across Omaha, Council Bluffs, and the Right at Home In Home surrounding areas!”

Care & Associates Right at Home tailors their care to your unique situation through a Custom Care Plan that includes whatever your loved one needs from any of their care categories, including companion care, personal care, and specialty services like Alzheimer’s or other dementia care, skilled nursing, couples care, and transitions from hospitals, nursing facilities, outpatient clinics, or surgery centers.

Another terrific option for seniors who want to continue to live at home is CareBuilders at Home. They provide in-home, nonmedical services—not just for seniors but for people of all ages. They are dedicated to helping clients lead dignified, independent lifestyles in the comfort and safety of their own homes. They provide experience and options that support aging in place and maintaining independence, including safetyalert devices, medication management, Brenda Oullette electronic dispensers, and other assistance.

CareBuilders at Home

“I made the right choice for my parents AND for me!”

Nancy, Daughter of CountryHouse resident Nancy’s parents recently moved into CountryHouse and right away she appreciated the homelike atmosphere and welcoming community. If she has any questions or her parents need accommodations, Nancy knows she can count on the expert staff.

“I feel comfortable and at ease knowing that the staff is caring for my folks with fun, helpfulness, compassion, understanding and expertise.”

Discover care exclusively designed for those with Alzheimer’s or other typesof dementia.

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“You are not alone,” said Executive Director and Owner Brenda Oullette.

“We are here to help care for your loved one at home and give your family the support you need to manage the challenges of the changes you are faced with. CareBuilders at Home understands the struggles families face, and it is our mission to provide as much love and support to not only the clients we serve but also to their families.”

Trained to Serve When your loved one moves into a senior-care community, you want to be sure that the staff not only cares about the residents but is welltrained to serve their needs. You don’t have to worry about that with the assisted-living and memory-care support teams at Ovation by Avamere Heartwood Preserve—Ovation’s newest community opening later this year in Omaha. With the additional stress that the COVID pandemic added to the sometimes-difficult decision to move into and assistedcare community, it’s crucial that you find a place staffed by senior-living professionals who make you feel comfortable. Ovation by Avamere promotes open dialogue and effective communications with each potential resident and their families because there are many nuances to each situation.

“We are here to listen to the specific needs of each resident and their family and create a care plan that puts the family at ease about their loved one’s care,” said General Manager Stephanie Grade. “Ovation not only has the latest technology to support each individual’s independence, but we also have one of the most extensive training programs for our team members. Our team spends two weeks learning our values and 30 days of job Stephanie Grade shadowing before they are allowed to be in Ovation by Avamere Heartwood Preserve their perspective role alone.”

Making the Most of Every Day While we all have people we love and want to take care of, including those with Alzheimer’s and dementia, there may come a time when the needs of a person who has a disease are too much to for a family member to manage alone. That is when Agemark’s CountryHouse Residence for Memory Care can step in. They work with families whose loved one may be in the early stages of memory loss, so they know what resources are available if and when they need them. CountryHouse also sponsors a regular family-support group—to learn about how to cope with cognitive memory loss when it involves someone you love—and participants do not have to know someone living there to participate.

They operate on the philosophy that “So long as a person is living, they are on a journey — and there remains ample opportunity for joy and for wonder.” This philosophy guides everything they do on behalf of their residents and families. In short, they don’t settle for providing a place for people just to stay. Instead, they seek to make every part of every day truly engaging to the residents who live with them — providing them with real joy and fulfillment.

“Our view of those who have memory loss is that, if it comes with physical or cognitive challenges, they’re just challenges,” said COO Marty Hug. “We don’t see age. We don’t see challenges. We just see people. And all people want the same thing: to live a purposeful, welllived life. So we focus on them individually and use our resources to give them a voice that’s heard. We help them to grow, to have Marty Hug CountryHouse Residence fun, and to live the life they always wanted for Memory Care before their diagnosis.”

Our seniors are the very heart and soul of Omaha, and we’re clearly blessed to have such top-notch care facilities and services to keep them safe, healthy, and happy, even in difficult times. Our thanks go out to every person involved in senior care. You are truly heroes! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Offering Solutions for the

Built Environment

Since 1985, AOI has offered solutions for the built environment through their construction, furniture, and pre-manufactured construction groups. Products and services are available individually or combined as part of a holistic approach developed in close collaboration with their clients and design teams. Local leadership includes Christine Hill, President; Mike Fritzinger, VP of Construction; Becky Costello, VP of Furniture Sales; Mick Jensen, VP of Pre-manufactured Interior Solutions; and Patrick Jensen, VP of Marketing and Business Development. While AOI has over 100 employees today, the company was started with a nothing more than a backyard dream of a gazebo, three friends, an orange van, and a kitchen table. These humble roots remain evident in the company’s dedication to creating “win-win” relationships. By checking egos at the door and committing to shared goals, everyone benefits. AOI also prides themselves on their ability to bring order to chaos through effective communication. It’s what makes true collaboration with their colleagues and clients possible.

They create streamlined processes and maintain open lines of communication to keep information flowing and eliminate misunderstandings. This approach guided the company through the challenges of COVID. The pandemic taught people the importance of including adaptability and flexibility into designs from the outset. Doing anything less leaves organizations flat-footed and struggling to adapt or spending large sums to react when it does. Changes in technology, workflow, regulations, staffing, and disasters all highlight the need for environments to flex and adapt to meet current needs. The pre-manufactured interior solutions such as DIRTT and new Herman Miller furnishings sold by AOI are focused on this and will be important elements in creating those dynamic environments into the future.

Upholding Values Remains Highest Achievement

AOI Gives 2020 - Abide

Everyone focuses on the difficulty in managing through the hard times, but it can be equally challenging to manage a business when business is booming. Managing what you take on as you stretch and grow is so important in protecting your responsiveness and the level of service you deliver. It’s also important from a cultural integrity and continuity perspective. Every few years, AOI leadership brings in different people from throughout their organization—some only a few years in—and asks them “Why AOI? What is it that differentiates us from the rest?” Every time, they end up reiterating some version of the principles the company was founded on more than 35 years ago. In their eyes, that’s the highest achievement they can hit because it means they aren’t losing who they are as they continue to grow, adapt, change, and add to the mix along the way.

Committed to Omaha AOI is proud to be involved with the Greater Omaha Chamber and Sarpy County Chamber, AIA Nebraska, AGC Nebraska, CREW, SMPS Nebraska. Community involvement and philanthropic endeavors vary by year and are chosen by the AOI Gives committee—an employee lead philanthropy group. Over the past couple of years, they have been engaged with Food Bank for the Heartland, Ronald McDonald House, Habitat for Humanity, Salvation Army, Farkle Fund, American Heart Association, Breast Cancer Foundation, Douglas County CASA program, and more.

“I personally couldn't be happier with the decision we made to use AOI. They went over and beyond what we expected and delivered a product that was everything we dreamed it to be. They answered every question we had and when we went to them with any concern, they addressed it and made sure it was right. Outstanding company and one I would use again and again. I will always recommend AOI not only because of the quality of work, but also the outstanding personal care they added to the process. It felt like they belonged to the Roncalli Family.” - TJ Orr, Gustafson Media Center – Roncalli Catholic Highschool Project

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commercial Remodeling Over the five years to 2020, the Commercial Property Remodeling industry benefited from strong overall economic growth, according to IBISWorld. As rising commercial construction activity and corporate profit levels rose in the middle of the period, demand for remodeling services trended upward. Businesses responded by expanding or opening new shops altogether, supporting increased demand for the industry's remodeling services.

Overall, IBISWorld estimates that industry revenue rose at an annualized rate of 4.4% to $35.8 billion in the five years to 2020, despite an estimated 11.3% decline in 2020 alone. The pandemic definitely created challenges and did slow remodeling projects for a period, as businesses struggled to survive with existing expenses. Things are picking up for the industry again, and local business owners are starting to look at remodeling projects that can make them stand out.

If the location of your business works well for you but you want to step things up a bit, anything from a new paint job to construction of focus walls, remodeled facilities, new electrical efficiencies, building automation, or a full-on expansion can shine the spotlight on your products and services without the huge headaches and price tags that come with moving or building from scratch. Remodeling can bring new life to your brands, reorganize your spaces to make them operate more effectively, upgrade technologies to remain relevant, instigate more safety measures in light of COVID, or expand to fit more products, services, or space for employees, tenants, or storage. Whatever your needs, remodeling your business can come with big benefits, including improving its visual appeal, boosting its reputation, creating additional space and customers, and lifting morale among employees, to name a few.

the side doubles as a billboard for marketing.”

These redbox+ combo dumpster and porta potties also solve scheduling conflicts for the containers, because all you have to do is to make a simple call or text or use their contractor’s app. The routing component of the company’s software lets the redbox+ team control scheduling to ensure a 24-hour turnaround time.

“At Redbox+ of Omaha, we pride ourselves on great customer service and communication,” Mark Fredrickson Mark said. “Things happen in the construction redbox+ of Omaha industry and timing gets thrown off but with common courtesy and good communication these hurdles can typically be overcome.”

A View from Above Before even getting your remodeling plans on paper, it’s crucial that you know what you’re working with in terms of the structure’s qualities and condition. Mirage Aerial Imaging is the perfect choice for the job. They

Before embarking on a commercial remodeling project, however, it is crucial that you vet your contractors and subcontractors well, to make sure you are choosing companies with integrity, a good reputation, reviews and references for similar work, and a priority for clear and frequent communication with you throughout your remodeling project.

Your workplace is an extension of your brand. It tells your clients who you are as a company. It should be comfortable, clean, and updated in a way that supports optimal productivity, collaboration, and efficiency.

If your business is lacking in any of these areas, it’s probably time for an update. Fortunately, Omaha is a home to a host of impressive remodeling contractors and subcontractors that fit the bill. So, we talked to a few about what they have to offer and some of the hottest trends and products in the commercial remodeling industry.

Hassle-Free Clean-up Whatever your commercial remodeling project is, it is bound to make a mess on the property along the way—but redbox+ of Omaha can help keep things neat and tidy from start to finish. They offer the only roll-off containers on the market that come with porta potties attached!

Serving the Omaha, Lincoln, and Council Bluffs area, their roll-offs are specifically designed with commercial and residential construction sites in mind. The bright red, powder-coated containers, which are manufactured in the U.S., are meticulously designed for durability. ”Our patented combo units come in 20- and 30-yard sizes, both standard and elite, which are ideal for larger projects,” said Franchise Owner Mark Fredrickson. “The elite containers include two porta potties, securely mounted onto the front of the container, ensuring they can’t be tipped over or stolen. An additional perk of redbox+ elite containers is that #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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use 360-degree cameras to give you a up-close-and-personal look at the building, inside and out. It’s a great option for providing detailed before-and-after representations! Mirage Aerial provides virtual tour services for clients to highlight their completed projects. This service enables anyone, anywhere to experience the completed project as a self-guided, self-paced 360-degree tour, as if they were on the site personally—but without leaving the comfort and safety of their office.

“Mirage Aerial Imaging also offers thermal imaging services for accurate commercial roof and solar farm inspections, environmental surveys, and more,” said Tom vonAhlefeld, who owns and operates the business with his wife, Sara. “Mirage’s commercial real-estate services provide baseline and post-damage structural assessments, as well as advertising photography, and our construction imaging can follow your project from a vacant lot or teardown to a completed project, including topographical mapping, 3-D imaging, and site surveys.”

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Tom and Sara are also interested in finding new ways to use aerial imaging, so if you have an idea, just let them know by calling (402) 203-7868, and they’ll make it happen!

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While on his last tour of duty with the United States Air Force, Tom also worked as a professional photographer with a focus on college sports and professional rodeo in the Pacific Northwest. He transitioned into aerial photography in 2012 and was one of the first to obtain a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) 333 Exemption to legally fly remote aircraft for commercial use in Cincinnati. He maintains his certification to fly drones legally for commercial use by maintaining his part 107 certification through the FAA. “Our pilots are all FAA-certified and follow all airspace regulations,” Tom said. “We perform an onsite assessment and make a comprehensive plan with each client, ensuring safety and quality results. When it comes to inspecting a roof, we provide thermal imaging and it helps increase safety, because there is no need for an inspector to take hours to walk the entire roof. Drones are incredible tools and can be used in so many ways. We can provide services to any type of construction project, big or small, at reasonable prices.”

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A popular commercial upgrade in an environmentally conscious world centers around finding ways to save energy. That’s where Energy Studio comes in. They serve a variety of clients, including higher education, office, healthcare, multi-family residential, mixed use, and industrial in both new construction and renovations. Founded in 2010 in Omaha, Energy Studio is an energy modeling and management firm that specializes in helping architects, engineers, developers and building owners maximize energy efficiency and minimize costs.

Whether new construction or a remodel, they help clients understand design factors that impact energy usage and recommend engineering systems that provide optimal building performance.

“Facility managers are looking for utility performance indicators to meet long-term energy usage strategies,” said Owner Amanda Bogner. With Energy Studio specialists on their team, they can be confident that they will have reliable predictions of utility performance that result in attaining long-term energy usage goals.”

Energy Studio provides technical energy modeling and analysis services that are more specialized than what many engineering and architectural firms offer for renovation Amanda Bogner projects. Today’s clients want buildings Energy Studio that are cost-effective and meet code and sustainability standards, and Energy Studio provides the energy analysis tools and expertise, so clients achieve the best energy usage for their #PrintProudDigitalSmart

return on investment. Among recent projects, Energy Studio worked on the renovation of the Landmark Tower from an office building to a boutique hotel.

“First, we developed an energy benchmark by reviewing historic utility bills,” Amanda said. “Then we conducted a site investigation and audit of existing conditions. Finally, we developed an energy model to understand energy usage and capital improvements. We bundled recommendations that helped the client make the best investment decisions for space cooling and heating.”

The COVID-19 Pandemic showed us that building engineering systems are a major factor in people working safely in office settings. Many facility managers have invested in systems that clean recirculated air and use science to mitigate the spread of the airborne virus. Energy Studios helps make facility managers’ jobs easier in addressing changing trends that impact cost-effective and reliable operations.

“Energy Studio models weigh factors that affect utility performance so facility managers can make better design decisions for optimal energyefficient operations, which includes windows, and high-performance heating and cooling systems,” Amanda explained. “We routinely conduct energy audits to identify hidden barriers that may improve a building’s energy performance.”

Adaptability and Flexibility If we’ve learned anything in pandemic times, it is that change is inevitable, and we have to learn to adapt. That includes changing up your business space to meet the requirements of the times. One way to do that is to work with AOI Corporation, which provides construction general contracting, pre-manufactured interior construction solutions, and an impressive selection of functional and attractive office furnishings.

While commercial remodeling business stalled early in the pandemic, as uncertainty reigned, AOI now is seeing an uptick in business with the arrival of a new normal.

Patrick Jensen AOI Corporation

“Now that we are seeing the beginning of reentry, the need to adjust to new norms will be what drives a lot of renovation efforts,” said AOI Vice President of Marketing & Business Development Patrick Jensen. “With over 70% of companies opting for some sort of work from home and in-office hybrid, the role offices play will need to adapt and change.

Office workers reentering the workplace after working from home will have different needs.

Their expectations on what they want out of an office environment and how it should function for them has changed.”

For those who are more productive at home, the focus will be on collaborative spaces, meeting spaces and areas for serendipitous interaction that is in higher demand. Heads-down work of the traditional office may be saved for the home office, where distractions can be more tightly controlled. Those who have more distractions at home will be looking to the office for a space with less interruptions and more productivity.

“What the pandemic taught us about the future of the design and construction for all environments is that adaptability and flexibility need to be built into the design from day one,” Patrick said. “Facilities need to be change-ready. Executing projects without this in mind will ultimately leave an organization flatfooted and struggling to adapt or needing to spend large sums in order to meet future challenges.”

Changes in technology, workflow, regulations, staffing, and disasters all highlight the need for environments to flex and adapt. Premanufactured interior solutions offered by AOI—including DIRTT and the new Herman Miller furnishings like OE1—are keenly focused on solving this issue for businesses. AOI does a fabulous job of helping you create a fully integrated, customized approach to creating far more than an office space for you.

“We provide a complete solution for the built environment through our construction, furniture and pre-manufactured interior construction groups,” #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Patrick said. “Products and services can be utilized individually or combined as part of a holistic approach developed in close collaboration with our clients and their design teams. Business owners considering remodeling should come to us because our various business units make us informed of the latest concepts, technologies, and direction the built environment is moving in. We are consultative in our approach to helping clients solve their problems. We streamline the process and help them maximize their investments while achieving their goals!”

Choose Your Delivery Method Cheever Construction is a 100% employeeowned construction management company that has been in business for 60 years, completed nearly 900 jobs, and operates with a single vision in mind: To build good futures for their clients, employees, and the community.

Cheever Construction President Justin Kurtzer said selecting the correct delivery method can have a direct impact on the outcome of the project. Numerous items will factor into your decision, including the size of the project, complexity of the project, project type, and overall delivery schedule. While there are many delivery methods, the three most often used include design-bid-build, construction management, and design build.

Justin Kurtzer Cheever Construction

“A construction-management approach begins with a business owner hiring a construction manager early in the planning process to provide pre-construction services, working with the architect and/or engineer (under separate contracts with the owner) to establish the project program, constructability, and schedule, and establish benchmark budgets in a team environment,” Kurtzer said.

With a design-bid-build delivery, a business owner hires an architect to design the remodel in full, creating both a plan and specifications to

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fulfill the owner’s program requirements. Because the project design might not be complete when remodeling construction begins, the construction manager typically provides services on a cost-plus-fee basis, sometimes including a guaranteed maximum price. Advantages include the contractor having input during the design; the owner being included in the bid process and selection of subcontractors; the scope being defined during design; the cost and schedule are guaranteed; and design and construction can overlap to accelerate project delivery.

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With a design-build approach, a business hires, under a single contract, the construction manager and design professional, which combine services to provide a single point of accountability for the entire project. The entity is responsible for delivering both the design documents and completing construction according to the owner’s requirements. Some advantages of this approach is that the contractor has input during design; the price is guaranteed; there is a single point of responsibility for construction; and design and construction can overlap to accelerate project delivery.

“Whichever method you choose,” Kurtzer said, “Cheever Construction approaches each project with consistent objectives for success. We utilize an effective schedule coupled with the quality and skill from our subcontractors and combined with our field craftsmen,” he said. “Cheever Construction takes pride in all of the relationships that we have entered into. We strive to make each project the precursor to the next project, while building a lasting relationship with everyone involved.”

Get Noticed, Recognized, and Remembered One way to give your business a fabulous new look—and a lot of attention—is to upgrade the exterior. Stonebrook Exterior can make old look new and boring or tired look revitalized and healthy, which is a much better face for your business!

“Everything that Stonebrook Exterior provides for new commercial buildings in the aspect of exterior elements, we can also provide for the remodeling of existing structures to give your current building a facelift,” said Business Development Manager TwiLea Fletcher. “Most importantly, we can bring your building up to date with masonry, siding, metal wall-panel systems and new gutter systems. This will give your company a fresh look and increase the longevity of the building for years to come.”

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As with so many in the industry, Stonebrook Exterior experienced a shortage of materials throughout the pandemic, but they adjusted to be sure they can complete their jobs on time.

TwiLea Fletcher Stonebrook Exterior

“Adjusting the way we plan over the past year has been instrumental in ensuring we can complete the scope of our projects on time,” TwiLea said. “The pandemic has also played a part in the way customers think.

We find more are leaning toward remodeling their current structure in lieu of new construction. Business owners are wanting more curb appeal when it comes to the brick-and-mortar of their operations. Being noticed, recognized, and remembered is a huge factor.”

Besides their stellar reputation and stunning work, another advantage of working with Stonebrook Exterior for your remodeling project is that they self-perform much of their work instead of subcontracting to others.

“This makes our crews more productive, which saves time overall when working to complete a project within the time allotted or requested,” TwiLea said.

Automating for Efficiency A huge trend for commercial remodel projects is building automation— intelligent, data-enabled automation and related controls. Since the desire to improve efficiency and effectiveness is never-ending, companies like Engineered Controls are in high demand. By providing essential instrumentation, Engineered Controls offers affordable integrated building control and automation systems that make your buildings smarter and more efficient. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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These systems save energy, lower operational costs, and enable productive and secure environments. Building automation platforms can connect your HVAC, lighting, safety, and security systems, enabling them to talk to each other in a single language, on a single platform. This gives business owners information to make better decisions, save money, feel safer, and improve the way their building function.

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"As a technology contractor, our vision is to participate in projects that transform the way buildings are designed, built, and operated, and to create environmentally responsible, profitable, and healthy places to live and work," Pat said. "From the integration of new control technologies into our design, to the contracting work we engage in, Engineered Controls is participating in the service and construction of buildings for now and well into the future."

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"As most building owners know, energy is the single largest expense in a building’s total operating budget," said Engineered Controls President and CEO Pat Killeen. "In fact, 30% of it is used inefficiently or unnecessarily. One of the best ways to keep those costs down is to develop a comprehensive strategy to reduce energy use and integrate a quality control system."

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Engineered Controls offers a comprehensive energy evaluation program to customers in which Energy and Environmental Optimization (EEO)program-certified professionals can quickly assess your building’s current state and consult with you on the goals and objectives of your energy efficiency project.

"You can’t manage what you don’t measure!" Pat exclaimed.

"Evaluating your energy usage and potential waste by metering the current electrical systems you have in place can open up the door to great savings in the long run. You might find it's time to upgrade, and that is where we come in."

Engineered Controls offers many energy-related products, including variable frequency drives (VFDs) designed specifically for commercial buildings. VFDs control the speed of a three-phase AC motor, while resulting in energy savings. They save energy because the motor does not require as much current at lower speeds. VFDs monitor building systems constantly and provide automatic adjustment of fan speeds for optimal energy usage.

“We live in an era in which buildings of any size and shape can become intelligent buildings,” Pat said. “With open-protocol technology, they can connect multiple subsystems together, on one network, rather than operating them all independently— maximizing energy efficiency, lowering maintenance costs, and providing centralized building control.”

Most new construction these days includes some level of building automation, but if you are operating out of an older space, incorporating building automation and control systems into your remodeling goals has the potential to really improve your business.

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Although building automation systems have existed since the 1970s, Pat said recent systems save time and money on internal comfort conditions, individual room control, improved building reliability and life, and quick and effective responses to HVAC and security problems: “The systems also provide information on problems in the building, allow for computerized maintenance scheduling, are easy and effective for employees to use, and easily detect problems,” he said. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Distributing Solutions If automation is the name of your game, Control Depot is another stop you’ll want to consider along your commercial remodeling journey. The company is a premier automation and control distributor of HVAC, lighting, security, and life-safety systems and a leader in technology solutions, facility-system integration, energy management and metering, gas detection, and more. They partner with leading suppliers of building technologies to provide customers with the best products available for their specific needs. In 2020, Control Depot was recognized as one of Honeywell’s Diamond Distributors for the 12th year in a row!

Control Depot’s customers include subcontractors 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.

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“Control Depot’s primary goal is to offer the necessary systems and replacement parts that will provide a safe, comfortable working environment, as well as cut wasteful energy costs,” Jeff said. “We are helping companies become more sustainable and improving their bottom lines.”

In addition to Honeywell, Control Depot also has established partnerships with Belimo, EasyIO, ProLon, Tridium, Viconics, Siemens, ACI, Lutron, eGauge, Functional Devices, Klein tools, and many other high-quality manufacturers. They recently teamed up with Zonex Systems to offer the entire line of Zonex HVAC temperature-control zoning systems. Zonex is a leading manufacturer of HVAC control systems designed specifically for zoning applications in commercial buildings. Zonex develops efficient systems and reliable products that meet the expectations of an increasingly demanding market at a highly competitive price.

Besides offering the necessary products, Jeff 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.”

The Restoration Experts Restoration jobs might be different than the more typical “remodeling” project, but they are crucial components of reworking commercial structures. The family-owned McGill Restoration specializes in large-scale, complex projects in the concrete and masonry segments of the industry, including parking garages, stadiums, and other commercial structures. In 2020, they celebrated 35 years in business, and over the last four consecutive years, Inc. magazine has recognized as one of the 5,000 fastest-growing privately owned businesses in the U.S. Their projects regularly win industry awards for excellence, as well, and all of which are important to the aging infrastructure of our communities and nation.

Ben Russell McGill Restoration

“Restoration requires an in-depth understanding of a structure’s history and details,” said McGill Vice President of Operations Ben Russell.

“Researching the building, the materials, and the best techniques is essential to providing a beautifully restored project. Asking the right questions helps you plan properly: When was it built? What is it going to be used for in the future? These questions will provide a lot of answers to the type of materials that must be used in its restoration. When it comes to the planning and execution of a project, consulting with industry experts alleviates a lot of headaches.”

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Ben said one of the biggest trends in commercial remodeling today is preservation of aging buildings in the area, where business owners are restoring older buildings or converting older spaces into modern designs.

If you are considering restoring an older building, though, you can’t overestimate the importance of research in preparing for a restoration project. That research is the key to how you go about restoring a building and how authentic your end result is.

The shutdowns that came with the COVID-19 pandemic actually made restoration and remodeling projects easier—for McGill and their clients alike. The timing of the closures helped businesses accomplish some crucial work, at a time when they couldn’t run normal operations. Some of the jobs McGill took on included work on the Bergan Mercy Hospital parking garage, Eagle Parking garage, Southbridge Condominiums, and Nebraska Medical Center. Parking structures that normally would have been full of cars (at hospitals, retail outlets, offices, and the like) were mostly empty due to closures, thus allowing McGill Construction to perform their work without having to block off stalls or spend time and staff to redirect traffic.

McGill has achieved excelled growth by investing in new technologies.

That includes investing in and designing custom Business Intelligence (BI) tools that allows them to maintain a holistic and accurate view of their job and workforce capacity in real time for now and in the future. As a result, customers receive more accurate start and completion dates, as this data allows McGill to better align their pipeline of work with sales and project management. They have also invested in integrated accounting and estimation technologies to take the business to the next level, as well as timekeeping and human-resources tools with features such as GPS geofencing and other controls for more accurate time punches.

“These technological advancements have allowed McGill Restoration to significantly invest in our hiring processes and employee development,” Ben said. “One of McGill’s greatest secrets to success if having a reliable and highly knowledgeable workforce.”

Full Life Safety Upgrades When it comes to keeping your property up-to-date, there are a host of factors that are crucial to your business, but none more so than the safety of its inhabitants, and whenever you are working on a remodeling project, it’s important to check and update your safety products. FireGuard, Inc. provides Full Life Safety Services to all commercial businesses and facilities, including but not limited to: healthcare, education, industrial, restaurants, property management, hospitality, retail, construction and more. They inspect, maintain and repair fire-alarm systems, kitchen-hood systems, fire extinguishers, fire-sprinkler systems, backflows, and special hazard systems. FireGuard also has a specialized team dedicated to the design and installation of fire-alarm systems. Many of the maintenance and safety services that they provide are required by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

“In Nebraska, you are required to have your fire alarm, kitchen hood, special hazard, and clean agent systems in your business inspected twice a year,” said FireGuard Owner Lori Sorensen. “Fire sprinkler systems, backflows, and fire extinguishers require an annual inspection. The price of not inspecting? These code-required inspections are imperative to the safety of your facility and the people who occupy them. The cost and detriment of a potential fire in comparison to keeping up to date on these inspections is insurmountable.”

Lori Sorensen

An example of the price of doing nothing FireGuard, Inc. would be the potential of your batteries failing from skipping the semi-annual inspection: “Will the fire-alarm system function as it intended to? Who will call the fire department? These are questions no one should leave to chance,” Lori said.

FireGuard is a local, family-owned, full-service fire protection and life safety company that has been protecting lives and property since 1994.

They are a leader in the healthcare industry, in addition to protecting #PrintProudDigitalSmart

businesses from school districts to processing plants and everything in between. Since its inception, FireGuard has grown to more than 50 employees with 475 combined years of experience in fire protection, servicing the entire Midwest as far as Colorado and Wyoming.

Streamline Your Way to Savings Sometimes, a remodeling project isn’t about construction, but savings.

Streamline Energy Solutions has a team of energy-efficiency specialists who have the goal of saving you money by making changes to your building through air sealing, energy audits, insulation, solar attic fans, and duct sealing. They have a strong reputation for truly listening to clients’ needs and achieving the results they are looking for. Streamline’s qualified team will also ensure that your home or business meets code requirements, all with energy efficiency in mind.

“Planning an energy smart building during the design phase of your project is a strategy that will produce both a long-term return on investment and help ensure a comfortable environment,” said Streamline Co-founder and BPI-Certified Auditor Jen Keller.

“Weatherization measures installed at the building stage will always be worth the investment. Knowing where to insulate during construction will help ensure a more energy efficient building.”

Streamline’s experienced technicians will ensure that all areas of a build—attic, walls, floor, crawl space, etc.—are insulated to the highest standards to ensure that codes are met. They can also help you install smart thermostats that will save an average of 10-12% on heating bills and about 15% on your cooling bills.

Jen Keller Streamline Energy Solutions

With a combined total of 16 years of experience in the industry, Streamline’s co-founders Jen Keller and Nathan Capps came together to provide a holistic approach to energy efficiency. Their energy auditing services, coupled with a variety of weatherization upgrades maximize your savings while minimizing your energy usage. Their core values are excellence, integrity, customer satisfaction, and responsibility, and they show in the host of tremendous reviews and five-star ratings they get from customer after customer.

If you find that your energy bills have increased or your employees or clients are too warm in your building, it’s important to realize that things like insulation codes change over time, and you may be experiencing the need for upgrades. Keeping your insulation updated will mean improved energy efficiency, reduced energy costs, the comfort of your family clients, and employees, and more.

Dependable and Experienced When it comes to selecting a builder for your project, you’ll have a host to choose from, though you may find yourself on a waiting list to get dependable contractors on the job. It’s worth waiting to get reputable contractors that will get the job done right, though. TSR Construction is a Class A general contractor that is licensed, bonded, and fully insured.

Building on a tradition of excellence in remodeling and construction, TSR provides clients with full range of services including roofing, carpentry, electrical, painting, concrete, and flooring. They handle all of your commercial construction, design build, and project management needs and have extensive experience in medical and health facilities, law offices, educational facilities, restaurants and foodservice, retail and recreation facilities, strip malls, office buildings, and more.

Tony Reynolds TSR Construction

“We’re a team of fully-certified professionals who tackle everything from complex large projects to smaller-scale jobs,” said TSR Owner Tony Reynolds. “Fueled by our commitment to excellence, we make sure clients are completely satisfied with our work.”

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TSR is a general contractor and will manage the entire process of your remodel, and they are current on all the latest trends. When you are planning your remodeling project, TSR warns against having plans drafted before checking the current cost of construction. Without proper guidance, people in the early planning stages of putting together a remodeling project tend to skip the fundamental steps of the process.

First-time planners often jump right into having the building designed and get a set of plans drawn up even though they have no accurate guidance as to how much it will ultimately cost.

Comfort Essentials The comfort of your employees, clients, and customers is crucial to your reputation as a business. If you’re planning a commercial remodeling project, be sure to consider upgrading your heating and cooling systems and have a solid maintenance plan in place to keep it running smoothly.

Ideal Heating & Air Conditioning has a reputation of exceeding expectations for their clients in Omaha, Council Bluffs, Bellevue, and the surrounding communities.

Ideal provides the highest quality service for your commercial air conditioner, including educating and informing their customers to make the best decisions possible for their particular business. Their services for commercial remodeling include air conditioner repair and replacement, and sometimes a new air conditioner is more cost-effective and energy efficient than a repair. Ideal will help you figure out which works best for you all-around. The same goes for your furnace. What’s more, they offer preventive maintenance agreements to ensure that your system is serviced on a regular basis, typically quarterly, to avoid problems and breakdowns that will affect your business.

When business growth or changes spur the need for reorganization or redesign of your space, don’t forget to consider remodeling as opposed to new construction. Sometimes, you can accomplish more change than you might think in your existing space.

Fortunately, Omaha is home to the full slate of reputable experts you could possibly need to get the job done—and done right.

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

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Founded in 2010 in Omaha, ENERGY STUDIO is an energy modeling and management firm that specializes in helping architects, engineers, developers and building owners maximize energy efficiency and minimize costs.

When we determine exactly what designers are trying to achieve, we can develop the best approach, so their needs and requirements are met.

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Landmark Tower in Omaha, NE

Challenge — Rockford Construction purchased a former warehouse in a blighted area with designs of converting it into its headquarters.

It had expansive spaces and an exterior envelope that was less than energy efficient. The project’s primary challenge was to reduce the building’s energy use intensity to help achieve an aggressive goal of Platinum LEED certification.

Challenge — The Landmark Ownership Group in Omaha, Nebraska, purchased the iconic Landmark Tower with designs of converting a portion of the building into a boutique hotel.

The project’s primary challenge was to reduce the building’s energy use intensity and evaluate the opportunity to connect to the downtown central utility plant.

Solution — During the schematic design energy modeling exercise, Energy Studio found that the large all-glass south facing atrium was contributing to a significant portion of the building energy use. Working with the architects, they were able to develop a design that reduced the amount of energy used to heat and cool this space while maintaining the ability to daylight the space and still allowing the south facade to define the facility from downtown Grand Rapids. Energy efficiency was achieved through the use an under floor air distribution system that is served by a high-efficiency rooftop unit, reduced installed lighting power, daylight harvesting, and a significantly improved building envelope that included continuous wall insulation, high efficiency glazing, and an R-40 roof. The building realizes an annual energy cost savings of $46,000 per year and is Energy Star certified. Additionally, the project will earn several local utility incentives and full credit under the IRS Section 179d tax deduction. Energy efficiency really does pay off.

Solution — First, the team reviewed historic utility bills to develop an energy benchmark for the building. Then, the team conducted an occupant survey to capture satisfaction levels with indoor environmental quality, such as thermal comfort, lighting level, air quality, and noise. Finally the team developed an energy model that included a prioritized list of probable cost for Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs) and life cycle cost analysis scenarios to support the building owner’s decision-making.

“Energy Studio is easy to work with, open to ideas, willing to push the envelope. They are a good team. I look for opportunities to engage with them.”

- Steph Guy, Alvine Engineering

As a result of ENERGY STUDIO’S analysis, the project moved forward, and “The Farnam,” Omaha’s newest boutique hotel opened in May 2021.

"The most outstanding thing is their ability to build very positive relationships. They have a very direct approach, are very candid, but non-confrontational.

They have an outstanding ability to put project teams at ease. They engage effectively. Ask questions. This builds confidence in the folks they work with."

- Keith Winn, Catalyst Partners

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