Midlands Business Journal April 2, 2021 Vol. 47 No. 14 issue

APRIL 2, 2021

THE BUSINESS NEWSPAPER OF GREATER OMAHA, LINCOLN AND COUNCIL BLUFFS

THIS WEEK ’S ISSUE:

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VOL. 47 NO. 14

Thiele Geotech expands services in 25th year

by Richard D. Brown

Helping startups reach long-term success, Beeso Studio secures consistent growth.

– Page 2

40 er d Un 40 Kiewit’s Alyson Manning driven to provide opportunity for all.

– Page 3

ll ma S o s e t es lut sin Sa Bu

Organizations enjoy renewed vigor, seize upon new opportunities through pandemic. – Page 4

Omaha-based Thiele Geotech, which offers geotechnical, material and environmental engineering services to about 500 clients in 15 states, has added monitoring instrumentation to its growing list of services. CEO Daniel J. Thiele said such an initiative is a continuation of a philosophy that has directed expansion of the firm for 25 years.

“We adapt to the needs of our customers,” Thiele said.

Projects include regional work at smaller airports, landfills, and demolition and construction of large projects ranging from the Crossroads, the city of Omaha’s combined sewer overflow work, Heartwood Preserve, and for Offutt Air Force Base. Work for numerous sanitary and improvement districts that involves testing of sewers and streets is on the increase.

Thiele has seen the firm’s employee ranks increase from 45 to 60 over the past nine years. The growth opportunities offered by instrumentation have created two Continued on page 27.

From left, EVP Michael Gerdes, President Bob Lapke and CEO Daniel Thiele … Reaching milestone year, the firm has grown its services with monitoring instrumentation. (Photo by MBJ / Becky McCarville)

Online stores, virtual challenges among winning combinations for Fleet Feet

by Michelle Leach

Lori Borer’s running stores were experiencing such fleet-footed growth that, at the dawn of 2020, she was on track to post one of her most profitable years since launching a Lincoln store in 2014, with an Omaha location to follow three years later. With the adoption of Fleet Feet Sports’ online store and a wave of runners (and their

families) who are embracing the joys of the sport for the first time, or the first time in a long time, Borer is excited about what the rest of 2021 holds.

“I really think it will come back in the fall,” said Borer. “The race directors know how to do everything now, and how to put on a race — and now, people Continued on page 27.

Owner Travis Liebig … The area near 35th and Center streets is becoming a neighborhood destination spot with new and existing businesses drawing in more customers.

Sunnyside on Center serves up fun, fresh, ‘basic’ breakfast fare

by Becky McCarville

Owner Lori Borer … Quality shoe-fitting, service put running store on good footing going into the pandemic and the ensuing need to pivot.

“Keep it simple” seems to be the mantra of Sunnyside on Center owner Travis Liebig, from the new restaurant’s basic breakfast sandwich, to the hand-picked ingredients and menu options, to the fashionable décor and tagline that will be painted on the wall: “The friendly breakfast spot.”

Business has been brisk for

the startup that opened to the public in February 2021. Situated in a standalone building at 35th and Center streets, Sunnyside has focused on curbside and takeout and is easing into a dine-in option as more people get vaccinated to fend off the year-plus long pandemic. The main priority is keeping its workers and Continued on page 26.

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• APRIL 2, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

Helping startups reach long-term success, Beeso Studio secures consistent growth Typically, the studio looks for startups

by Gabby Hellbusch After nearly 20 years of working with that are generally in the tech space, and are entrepreneurs and co-founding several start- growing or have some exponential growth.

Right now, the company works with 11 ups, John Bunting founded Beeso Studio, a low-cost startup studio based in Omaha, with startups — eight of which are in the U.S., the intent to transform the startup ecosystem including four in Omaha.

“I think startups are attracted to us in the Midwest.

Unlike traditional incubators, Beeso because the partnership itself is unique,” Studio doesn’t have a defined program he said. “We’re focused on long-term success and growth. that startups must enWith building a startter into and graduate Beeso Studio up, there are so many from. Instead, BunPhone: 814-661-1220 intricacies so experting said the partnerLocation: 8790 F St., Studio 123, tise is important, and ships are long-term, Omaha 68127 we’re able to give usually until liquidity Founded: January 2019 advice and the steps is achieved.

Employees: 18 that are needed.”

“We provide lowService: low-cost startup studio partIn this industry, cost services, operatnering with startups to ensure long term Bunting said the reing at a break-even in success ality is that not all exchange for equity Goal: Invigorate the local startup space. startups will be sucin the startups that Website: www.beeso.io cessful, and Beeso we work with,” he Studio’s model is desaid. “We help with software development, marketing, business pendent on that success.

“There’s always a risk that we have to development and sales, and also help to raise balance, along with that opportunity,” he capital and connect with angel investors.”

Additionally, the company offers overall said. “So, one of our main challenges is secoaching on how to present to investors and lecting the right startups with good founders how to determine what type of investing is to help them accelerate and get to market.”

At the end of the day, Bunting said it’s needed at different stages.

Business Minute

From left, Innovation Manager Jake Burklund, VP of Tech Joshua Burden, Founder and CEO John Bunting, VP of Marketing Craig Inzana and VP of Startup Development Shane Sullivan … Using long-term partnership model to help local startups grow in the Midwest. the interaction with startups that is most The pandemic has forced the Studio to gratifying. rethink business development strategies.

“Building companies is what we love “Before COVID, we were able to send doing,” he said. “We’re able to give strategic a lot of email marketing and get plenty of input and work with great founders who have response,” Bunting said. “With COVID, we amazing vision.” stopped getting a response. So, we had to look at different avenues to engage and connect with startups. In terms of other trends, I think a lot of people are back to one-on-one Paid Content meetings instead of hosting webinars.”

Additionally, prior to the pandemic, there was more flexibility in regard to the type of startups Beeso Studio worked with because the economy was growing in a stable environment.

“People were more willing to take a risk Representative, then,” he said. “We’ve had to become a lot more selective with the types of startups we Continued on page 16.

Michaela Rasmussen Business Relationship Union Bank & Trust

Hometown: Utica, Nebraska Education: Evangel University in Springfield, Missouri

Midlands Business Journal Established in 1975

FOUNDER, Robert Hoig

How I got into the business: I was looking for a career change and a friend of mine worked for UBT. He spoke so highly of the organization that when the right opportunity presented itself to join the UBT team, I jumped! It has been a great career move and I enjoy what I do, my co-workers and our customers.

Accomplishments or milestones: Being a part of the first round of the Small Business Administration backed COVID-19 relief Payment Protection Program was an extremely rewarding experience.

First job: Aside from babysitting, I worked at Utica Lanes serving up Shirley Temples and cinnamon rolls during Saturday morning youth bowling league. I worked there through junior high and high

school.

Biggest career break: Being hired by UBT initially four years ago without any banking experience has proven to provide great new opportunities for me.

The toughest part of the job: My role at UBT is a new position with exciting possibilities. However, our current pandemic climate has proven to be a bit of a challenge for networking and getting connected to our customers. I also want to make sure we continue to meet the needs of every generation of our customer base.

The best advice I have received: Strive to be interested rather than interesting.

About my family: My husband Nate and I have three beautiful girls. We are living out our dream raising our family on our acreage near Malcolm, Nebraska.

Something else I’d like to accomplish: I would like to attend grad school to further my education in the banking industry.

How my business will change in the next decade: At UBT, I work with our business customers to help put the proper banking tools in their hands to be efficient.

As businesses evolve, we need to evolve with them. 2020 had such a huge impact on the way our society does business and we need

to continue to build on and improve our offerings to provide the best solutions for our customers in the years to come.

Mentor who has helped the most in my career: I’ve had many amazing people on my path but my previous manager, Sara Hernandez, has taught me so much about the industry and leadership in general. She does a great job of celebrating accomplishments and recognizing growth in those she manages.

Outside interests: Baking & gardening.

Favorite vacation spot: I love visiting anywhere there are mountains.

Other careers I would like to try: It would be fun to make my love of baking a career. I sometimes dream of opening a coffee shop or brunch spot but then remember I’m not a morning person . . .

Favorite cause or charity: Teen Reach Lincoln. This local non-profit is part of a national organization serving at-risk youth through summer camps and year-long mentoring. I’m part of the local director team and proud of our work in the community!

Favorite app: Marco Polo has become a fun way for me to stay connected with friends and family.

Interested in being featured in the Business Minute? Email news@mbj.com for more information.

ADMINISTRATION PUBLISHER, Andrea “Andee” Hoig

EDITORIAL EDITOR & VICE PRESIDENT OF NEWS, Tiffany Brazda EDITORIAL ASSISTANT, Savannah Behrends STAFF WRITER, Becky McCarville

ADVERTISING ADVERTISING CONSULTANT, Julie Whitehead OFFICE OFFICE ASSISTANT, Rosemary Gregurich (402) 330-1760 Zane D. Randall (1925-2006) Co-founder LeAnne M. Iwan (1932-1986) First News Editor

The Midlands Business Journal (ISSN 0194-4525) is published weekly plus one by MBJ Inc. and is available for $2.00 per individual copy or $75 per year. Editorial offices are 1308 S. 119th St., Omaha, NE 68144. Periodical postage paid at Omaha NE POSTMASTER; Send address changes to Midlands Business Journal, 1308 S. 119th St., Omaha, NE 68144. All submissions to the Midlands Business Journal become the property of the Midlands Business Journal and will not be returned.

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-The Publisher.

Midlands Business Journal • APRIL 2, 2021 •

Employee Relations Director Alyson Manning … Leading initiatives for equality within the corporation.

Kiewit’s Alyson Manning driven to provide opportunity for all

by Dwain Hebda “Bringing employee relations and AffirmaDuring her final year at Creighton Univer- tive Action under one business unit about five sity School of Law, Alyson Manning took an years ago was a huge win for the company,” internship with Conagra that changed the course she said. “Before that time, there were different of her professional life. business sectors within the Kiewit organization “I didn’t really get involved in the employ- handling Affirmative Action and employee-rement law space until my last semester of law lated investigations. Bringing that under one school and that internship,” said the Omaha business unit ensures we are providing consisnative. “At Conagra, I really took a liking to tent recommendations and application across that area of law. And from there that launched the board.” my career.”

Manning has been similarly passionate After a brief detour to a law firm in Kansas about keeping Kiewit’s offerings to employees City, Manning realized her dream on the cutting edge. She notes with of returning to her hometown. She particular pride a recent expansion of joined Kiewit in 2011 and spent the the company’s already robust benefits next decade building a culture of package to benefit new parents. inclusiveness and opportunity, a mis“I co-lead the Women in Kiewit sion she continues today as employee initiative to help further the retention relations director. and advancement of women,” she “In my role, I am head of our said. “That programming helped lead Affirmative Action and EEO (Equal up to our paid parental and paid maEmployment Opportunity) proternity leave programs that launched 2020 grams,” she said. “The first prong about three years ago. Through that, under the EEO umbrella is making sure all we now offer additional paid time off for parents individuals are provided equal employment who are baby bonding and for women who are opportunities within the company. And then recovering. That’s been a huge win and very the second prong, I lead our Affirmative Action well received within the company.” program to assist in the promotion, retention Manning said maintaining an inclusive and employment of minorities, women and environment that respects the dignity of all and individuals with disabilities. I also I serve as provides equal opportunity is more than just adviser to the business to help managers resolve the right thing to do. It is also a sound business workplace issues. practice, helping the firm attract and retain help “As a department, we’re responsible for, No. in an extremely competitive labor market. It’s an 1, making sure everyone behaves appropriately ever-evolving challenge for the future, she said. and two, are treated the same. We also are the “There’s always room for growth and conprimary source for looking into employee com- tinuous improvement,” she said. “What we’re plaints about potentially inappropriate conduct continuing to work on as a company is our and we provide recommendations to leadership outreach program. We’re communicating out on how they should best be resolved.” into the community, and not only in Omaha but Under Manning’s leadership, the business beyond, that Kiewit is a great place to work and unit expanded the functions under its jurisdic- we welcome all individuals into our industry. tion. She was instrumental in the development We’re working with local community colleges of a centralized Employee Relations Department and nonprofits to help spread the word and where multiple teams ride herd over employee show that Kiewit provides a wonderful place relations, Affirmative Action, leave administra- of opportunity for all.” tion programming and unemployment adminisIn addition to her law degree, Manning has tration for approximately 30,000 employees in a Bachelor of Science in Communication and the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

Marketing from Saint Louis University.

Proud Sponsors of the 2020 40 Under 40:

Nominations Now Open!

Go to MBJ.com today!

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• APRIL 2, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

Salute to Small Business A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands Business Journal

April 2, 2021

Organizations enjoy renewed vigor, seize upon new opportunities through pandemic

by Michelle Leach

From the continued rollout of vaccines to lifts on some of the restrictions placed earlier into the pandemic, leadership throughout the region are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel for those roughly 170,500 small businesses that represent 99.1% of all Nebraska businesses, and around 47% of private workforce employment (at just north of 400,500 workers), according to the Small Business Administration’s Office of Advocacy.

“I have been impressed with all the new businesses popGibler ping up,” said Karen Gibler, president of the Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce. “In July, we had already dropped off 20 welcome bags to new businesses. We continue to see new businesses opening on a regular basis. Many are restaurants. We may not have been able to do as many ribbon-cuttings as we like, but the entrepreneurial spirit stayed strong in Sarpy.”

Construction also stayed strong, with office build-outs and commercial and residential projects keeping skilled tradespeople

Michael Johnson, senior director, brand and image at Greater Omaha Chamber. busy, she said. lists of available products.”

“Many of our IT companies took on new Restaurants began to do deliveries, and clients as businesses needed good IT support increased take-out ordering. as ‘the new way of doing business’ changed “A few had said that their sales were how we communicated and connected with down, but the front of the house costs were each other,” Gibler added. “We also saw busi- down, too, and made them more profitable,” nesses fulfilling the need for masks, cleaning she said. supplies and sanitizer by adding these to their All that being said, Gibler noted many

industries will take years to get back where they were a year ago.

“It will take a concentrated effort on each community to help support these types of businesses get back on track,” she said.

“Sarpy County is very social and loves to have gatherings and events. It’s only a matter of time until we will start seeing these activities back in full force.”

SCORE Marketing Chair and Volunteer Allan Hale noted how the effects of coronavirus in the metro are “much more pronounced due to the Omaha manHale dates regarding face coverings and occupancy levels in various business.”

“The Greater Nebraska area has had a lesser effect because they are following the state guidelines and are generally less concerned about the pandemic,” he said.

“With that in mind, I believe the impact on business volumes are much less in the rural communities in all sectors, with restaurants and hotels being affected the most.”

Hale, who doubles as executive director with the Nebraska Chapter of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), said that restaurants and bars “are making a comeback” with fewer occupancy restrictions.

“And traditional retail sectors are beginning to show some promise,” he said.

“Some of the smaller bars and restaurants are struggling with staffing.”

SCORE has also seen “significant interest” from would-be entrepreneurs.

“People are looking for other opportunities when they are at home,” he said. “Some have lost their jobs and are looking for another career. We have seen more innovative ideas in the tech, manufacturing and service sector.”

Manufacturers who moved into the Plexiglass, sanitizer and mask markets, for instance, have seen tremendous growth.

In a Feb. 25 announcement provided by the Greater Omaha Chamber, President and CEO David G. Brown cited The World Bank’s projections that the global economy will expand 4% this year, assuming an initial COVID-19 vaccine rollout becomes widespread throughout Continued on page 9.

Salute to Small Business • Midlands Business Journal • APRIL 2, 2021 •

Starting a small business: financial and legal advice

by Gabby Hellbusch

For many, the beginning stages of starting a business are the most exciting and the most daunting. Local experts say it’s important to embrace both ends of that spectrum to keep everything in perspective.

“Get excited about your prospects, but keep a strategic eye on how you will get there,” said Melissa Glenn, SBA relationship manager at Core Bank.

Glenn said aspiring business owners should work on their plan as much as possible, then ask a group of trusted advisors to Glenn provide feedback.

“The biggest mistake many new business owners make is the assumption they need to know every aspect of the business or carry the burden themselves,” she said. “Seek advice and be open to a new way of thinking.”

Funding is a critical component of any new business and an honest assessment of the numbers is essential no matter what source of funding is utilized.

“Overstating or underestimating funding needs can be equally detrimental to the business, so I recommend mapping out the process/timeframe of opening the business and accounting for your needs as you would for any personal project,” Glenn said. “If utilizing a small business loan is determined to be your best course of action, make sure you are prepared. You will need to clearly and

Warren J. Ford III, senior associate attorney at Goosmann Law Firm. concisely explain your business and funding ness’ contracts and financial obligations,” needs and be ready to present your business Ford said. “About 50% of businesses fail by plan, projections, personal and business fi- the fifth year and the business owner needs nancials and a multitude of other documents. to be thinking strategically about how best The process isn’t always fast and requires to protect him/herself in this worst case scemany steps and rounds of paperwork.” nario. Therefore, an inspiring business owner When setting up a small business, War- should first hire a business law attorney that ren J. Ford III, senior associate attorney at can advise the owner on the best suitable Goosmann Law Firm, said the most import- business structure to meet the owner’s goals.” ant initial step is to decide how the business An attorney can prepare and file the should be structured. business formation with the state and taxing “Choosing the correct formal business authorities, as well as advise and assist the structure is vital to protecting the business owner with every other aspect of the busiowner from personal liability for the busi- ness formation from local, state and federal

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regulation/compliance to assisting the owner with obtaining startup financing.

“To launch a small business and have a chance at success, the owner needs to do things correctly from the beginning, as that sets the foundation for the business as a whole,” he said.

Stefanie Wientjes, CPA and manager at OFWF, said it’s best to start off by generally determining where one is at as a business.

“Identifying your position involves preparing the balance sheet, income/profit and loss statement and cash flow statement,” Wientjes said.

“These three pieces of information serve as a basis for decision-making. They provide at-a-glance Wientjes insight into ‘where’ the money went, the profitability of your business and comprehensive assets, liabilities and equity. Current ratio, debt ratio and profit margins can also further inform the total health of your business at present.”

Additionally, she said starting with the end in mind and visualizing “who” will want to buy the product and why is extremely important.

“This will help you differentiate your product and/or service and make you more competitive to the marketplace,” Wientjes said. “A major priority for all businesses is sales and forecasting. Most businesses fail because they lack sales. Understanding your sales process and wants of the buyer are key to success. Communicate what problem you solve or need you fulfill.”

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• APRIL 2, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal • Salute to Small Business

Plentiful resources for organizations struggling to adapt in new environment

by Michelle Leach

Regardless of just how one’s industry or respective business has been affected in the past year, all organizations could likely benefit from investments in, and guidance related to, new ways of working and the management of new risks due to the unique nature of the pandemic. A wealth of diverse professionals in the metro have been busy doing just that, guiding businesses Danon through the onslaught of changes that characterized 2020 and continue to color our day to day.

Steve Danon and some of his clients were “steps ahead” due to their pandemic preparedness effort that can be traced back to 2005 and 2009 — the Novel H1N1 and H5N1 strains. Back then, Danon was part on a team

Nicole M. Bianchi, partner and co-founder of Bravium HD. (Courtesy of Bravium HD) tasked with providing business preparedness for an infectious disease that impacted a workshops throughout the Midwest. company’s ability to operate was most likely “Prior to this COVID-19 event, planning at a very low level of priority, if at all,” said

Danon, regional risk control consultant with USI Insurance Services – Mountain/Central Region. “Certainly all business operations in the U.S. and beyond have now been impacted. Those businesses that survived and are now returning to some degree of normalcy have been shaken out of complacency and realized that this is a threat.”

Businesses have the opportunity, he said, to enhance many of their contingenOdenthal cy operational plans based on the experiences that have occurred over the last year.

“On a national level the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has been directed by Presidential executive order to enhance their response and enforcement activities,” Danon said. “OSHA recently created a National Emphasis Program with specific guidelines for OSHA field offices to directly respond to employee COVID-19 concerns.”

Danon also authored USI’s Business Pandemic Preparedness Guide, which was shared by public health and emergency preparedness organizations throughout Nebraska (Danon is a member of the Douglas County Pandemic Preparedness Committee).

“The past year has been extremely painful for many businesses,” he said. “We have all seen businesses that have closed never to return. As a society, unusual occurrences can and will happen. FEMA has estimated, prior to COVID-19, that many businesses fail after a disaster due to failing to plan and being underinsured.”

Danon continued that, with the increasing distribution of vaccines and herd immunity, as a country we’re in recovery; one can see it, he indicated, from the wait times at restaurants and the busy parking lots at retail centers.

“COVID-19 will most likely be with us for the rest of our lives,” he said. “Similar to the continuing Influenza variants that occur each season, as a population a COVID-19 vaccine could become an annual occurrence. Our country’s response to vaccine development and the government’s WARP Speed program will shorten the overall impact on business operations and will provide an environment for businesses to recover.”

Co-founder and Partner Jeff Shannon of Bravium HD noted, as teams wrestle with recovery of their culture and processes, what falls through the cracks is “clarity” and “alignment” to achieve goals.

Shannon and fellow founder and Partner Nicole M. Bianchi have been asking clients, “What’s in and out of scope now?”

“Teams often lose sight of the goal and begin saying ‘yes’ to lots of little initiatives and trivial activities,” Shannon said. “If they were clearer on what's in and out of scope, they could more easily say no to the trivial. We’ve helped many clients sit down and complete a rescoping exercise that better matches the current circumstances so they can achieve meaningful results.”

In fact, one “forward-thinking” client has conducted a complete overhaul of their ways in working — twice.

“As a team, they set clear goals and then Continued on page 9.

Salute to Small Business • Midlands Business Journal • APRIL 2, 2021 •

Restaurants emerge from pandemic to face new challenges

by Dwain Hebda

As diners get back to their favorite haunts, restaurants are still coping with ripple effects from COVID-19, namely personnel issues hamstringing recovery.

“The new crisis is not from sales, it’s on the labor side,” said John Wade of Restaurants Inc., which owns Stokes, Twisted Fork, Taxi’s and Stokin’ Goat.

“Sales in the last three weeks are bouncing back disproportionately to the number of staff we have. This is truWade ly a crisis.”

Wade, who’s also president of the Nebraska Restaurant Association, said labor was an issue before the pandemic.

“Data put out from the National Restaurant Association and IRS showed the normal workforce in the U.S. is a bell curve,” he said. “Five years ago, the IRS showed the curve starts at age 15-16, then hits the early 20s and goes down. It takes a big dip until, say, 26-27, then starts going back up. That’s a hole in America’s workforce.”

Zoe Olson, NRA executive director, said the industry’s inability to attract staff boils down to several factors.

“Early on [in COVID-19] we worked very closely with grocers who said, ‘Hey, if your people need a job, we need bod-

Nina Sodji, owner of Okra African Grill near 72nd and Pacific streets. ies.’ They were just inundated,” she said. she said.

David Brezack, co-owner of Bagel Bin, “Long-term care facilities were also calling for help. Well, some of that labor didn’t has felt the problem firsthand.

“Hiring people right now when we’re come back.

“I have one restaurateur, there’s a fac- starting to pick up, you can’t find employtory opening in their town and they offered ees because there’s no reason for them huge signing bonuses, thousands of dol- to work,” he said. “Even if you do have lars. She lost most of her staff in one day.” them, they’re only there for a little bit The upshot of these challenges is also and then they’re gone because they want to get back on unemployment. And I don’t detrimental to consumers, Olson said.

“Restaurateurs are forced to consider blame them, because they’re making twice closing early or maybe not being open as much money as working. That’s the big seven days a week, but being open six or problem.”

Aside from finding staffers, Brezack five days because they just can’t staff,”

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said there are other lingering challenges from the pandemic with which his restaurant must contend.

“Getting ingredients wasn’t big deal for us, but with these big wholesalers, if they send you the wrong stuff or send you more than you ordered, they weren’t taking it back,” he said. “To this day, there’s some companies that still won’t take it back because it’s a benefit to never have to give credit on anything. If you get brown sugar that’s hard as cement and you want to get $500 back, it’s yours.”

Nina Sodji opened her restauOlson rant Okra African Grill two days before eateries were shut down and spent the remainder of the year hustling to stay solvent. She said she is still struggling to secure a loan.

“We are in a model now of just staying alive long enough to get some type of boost,” she said. “In January my hope came crashing down when I found out that because I opened in March 2020, they were all asking for sales from 2019 to compare with for PPP. “I need a big boost because now rent is in full where in 2020 they kind of let me pay whatever I had. It’s kind a catch-22 because now I need that stimulus money that I didn’t get to pay full rent and I don’t have it. It’s like, what does a person do now?”

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• APRIL 2, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal • Salute to Small Business

Omaha niche businesses share importance of shopping local

by Gabby Hellbusch

Omaha is home to many unique shops and boutiques that enhance the community.

According to Abby Massey, owner of Dusk Goods & Gifts, this past year has been a real testament to the power of shopping and supporting local.

“Support comes in many ways for small business owners,” Massey said.

“Whether it be by commenting and sharing a social media post or making a small purchase online and in the store.

Or, sending positive messages on hard days or kind words about their experiMassey ences online and in the store. It does not go unnoticed. It’s a driving force that keeps us going. I love seeing the faces of customers when they walk in. The whispers and squeals of delight truly makes my day and reassures this dream.”

She said shopping local at Dusk Goods & Gifts means customers are investing in small woman-owned businesses, as 98% of the shop includes woman-owned indie brands and 40% of those are Black, indigenous or person of color owned.

“Shoppers and supporters are making it possible for me to continue to buy from these amazing women,” she said. “It’s a wonderful cycle.”

Mike Ewoldt, owner of Peak Performance - The Running Store, said the store has been in business and locally owned since 1994.

“We have four Omaha locations that cater to the runners, walkers and exercise enthusiasts of the world,” Ewoldt said. “We specialize in the proper fitting of running and walking shoes. We use a five point standing gait process to put Neary an individual in the right shoe with the proper amount of stability and arch support. We have found that the better the shoes fit, the better they perform and the less chance of experiencing exercise related aches, pains and injuries.”

Leigh Neary, owner/founder of Exist Green, a zero-waste market and eco-boutique located in Dundee, said the shop offers a unique and educational shopping experience.

“The Zero Waste Market not only serves as a year-round farmers market,

Exist Green, a zero-waste market and eco-boutique in Dundee. (Courtesy of Joshua Foo Photography) but also contains items such as local wild waste at home.” rice, organic heirloom beans, loose-leaf Additionally, the eco-boutique has teas, spices and gluten-free pantry mixes, specialty items to reduce waste footprint, offered by weight, entirely plastic-free,” such as package-free deodorant, reusable she said. “The customer can buy ‘just food wraps, zero waste razors and plantwhat they need’ for a recipe, avoiding food based cleaning tools.

Customers can refill containers with naturally-formulated personal care products and cleaning supplies all strictly vetted by Neary, an environmental engineer, to be safe for both the body and the environment.

“With all products meeting these standards, the consumer can easily avoid ‘green-washing’ traps present in so many big-box stores,” she said. “Customers are incentivized to bring their own containers, reuse free donated jars or return store containers for refill with a 5% discount given on any product inside a reused container.”

Neary said supporting local businesses not only directly supports the business’ team, but also helps support local food growers and sustainability education in Omaha.

Salute to Small Business • Midlands Business Journal • APRIL 2, 2021 •

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Plentiful resources for organizations struggling to adapt in new environment Continued from page 6. developed strategies and processes to ensure they were delivering the most value to the organization,” he said. “They prototyped a way of working, and then after a couple of months, used what they learned to tweak the plan. It was a classic build, measure, learn to improve results.”

Bianchi encourages giving oneself permission to experience and try one new thing — one small, brave move.

“I often ask the question to those who feel overwhelmed right now, ‘What is the bravest thing you need to do right now?’ It creates

immediacy and action,” she said.

Feeling helpless at times herself, Bianchi set out to interview leaders at their best during the pandemic, exploring the mindsets, behaviors and habits of being brave.

Those interviews informed her book, due out May 10, “Small Brave Moves: Learn Why Little Acts of Bravery Are the Key to Life-Changing Leadership.”

Bianchi further described how its client, Macy’s, had to furlough more than 100,000 “non-essential” employees.

“They have struggled significantly, and I will tell you the moves they made during this

Organizations enjoy renewed vigor, seize upon new opportunities through pandemic Continued from page 4. the year.

He noted how, with The World Bank’s earlier projections (from a Jan. 5 press release) in mind, the rollout could “mean a potential of $2.2 billion in economic growth — based on pre-pandemic GDP for the Omaha CSA of $63 billion; however, that projection comes with a host of assumptions and no shortage of possible additional considerations.”

For instance, the Chamber noted, when the final data is analyzed, The World Bank predicts the U.S. economy will contract 3.6% — while still predicting a 3.5% increase in 2021 (this activity is reflected in the $2.2 billion projection).

The World Bank also noted how recovery will likely be “subdued,” unless policymakers are decisive in taming the pandemic and implementing “investment-enhancing reforms.”

“People are always very focused on supporting small, local businesses,” said Michael Johnson, senior director, brand and image at the Greater Omaha Chamber. “Much of our programming is geared to those leaders — to support and connect them through networking, professional development and other resources.

More than two-thirds of our members have 25 or fewer employees, and more than half have fewer than 10.”

Gibler noted the Sarpy Chamber leveraged relationships with marketing and social media companies to support training sessions on

marketing one’s business, and with banks and government agencies to provide info on loans and other programs.

“Having your businesses doors closed, but still working, it was imperative to stay connected not only for your business but for each of personally,” she said.

At the time of this writing, classes, meetings and events except for ribbon-cutting, Coffee and Contacts, TIPS group and executive dialogue and larger events remain virtual.

“All of our marketing options are open and have been all year,” she said. “The Chamber continues to navigate the changes in the community, we stay connected with the businesses and lay out plans that businesses need and want.”

Hale said SCORE’s 75 volunteers with various backgrounds provide services that are needed, whether we are dealing with a pandemic or not.

“Small businesses have many challenges and pressures that are relieved by a listening ear and good business advice,” he said.

Workshops are offered regularly, he noted, and can meet most training needs.

“We have chapters in Omaha and Lincoln and several in Greater Nebraska,” Hale added.

“Even if we do not have a chapter in your area, we can mentor you by phone, Zoom and email, regardless of your location.”

In most cases, services are free or for very little cost.

time and ‘how’ they handled tough decisions with bravery and grace positioned them to create higher engagement and retention with their employees,” she said. “Businesses like this are coming out the other end of a pandemic well-positioned.”

Bianchi indicated businesses must understand there is no going back to the “normal” that was before; what they knew is gone.

“The businesses that aren’t investing in their people and a new way of working will struggle with success,” she said. “We are already seeing it.”

Heartland Workforce Solutions’ clients, particularly those in the health care and advanced manufacturing spaces, have an immense need for skilled workers.

“We are working to create focused initiatives that help support the growth in the health care industry, and encourage more individuals to consider career pathways in health care occupations or health care-adjacent occupations,” said Director of Business Relations Stan Odenthal. “Advanced manufacturers have many open jobs, often with wages starting at much higher than most people think.”

Transcending specific industries, Odenthal referred to the general, common concern about the lack of “soft skills” in areas such as communication.

“We are actively trying to increase our resources and services to small- and midsized businesses,” he said. “In the month of April, we will be launching a Better Business Workshop series.”

These monthly workshops are available via Zoom and on demand, and cover topics from hiring and retaining individuals with disabilities, to employment discrimination updates, and worker training grants.

Its programs for job-seekers aid in shortterm training opportunities to quickly enhance their skills, and to expand the opportunities they qualify for.

“Ideally, we seek to help get ready for careers in high wage, high skill, and high demand (H3) occupations and career pathways,” Odenthal said.

Resources for job-seekers and employers are available at its job center and online, and Odenthal welcomes hearing from readers directly.

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• APRIL 2, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal • Salute to Small Business

Small home services companies adapt and grow during pandemic

by David Kubicek

Despite the economic slowdown over the past year, many small businesses were able to adapt and grow.

A1 Garage Door Service & Repair owner Tommy Mello said that when he first took ownership of the firm in 2007, in the middle of an economic downturn, it was a struggling garage door repair company that was more than $50,000 in the hole.

“By focusing on reinvesting profits, hiring highly skilled personnel and paying employees 20% more than our industry competitors, we were able to develop a loyal workforce and an equally loyal customer base,” Mello said.

Today the firm has operations in 12 states and brings in more than $30 million

in annual revenue. “[Last year] when the COVID-19 pandemic first hit, about 10 (of our) employees came forward and offered to take pay cuts to help the company stay afloat,” Mello said. “That was huge. It meant that we had built something pretty special here if our people cared about the greater good of the company, rather than about themselves.

It’s the toughest times that reveal the most about people.”

A1 still has several staff members working from home. The firm has implemented a new touchless billing option, and its staff wears masks and maintains physical distance from customers as much as possible.

Andy’s Appliance Repair, which repairs

appliances and sells parts for appliances, has three locations — in Omaha, Lincoln, and Chesterfield, Missouri, according to President Tim Brockhouse. The firm, which opened in 1971, has 24 employees.

“Due to COVID we now wear masks, gloves and shoe coverings in every home that we are in every day,” Bockhouse said. “We are in [about] 130 homes per day. We have closed our lobby to walkin customers in all locations.”

Because the lobby is closed, the firm no longer accepts walk-in repair work and has discontinued foot traffic for customers purchasing parts.

Mello “Currently we take parts orders and payment over phone, and then we have curbside part delivery where we walk the parts out to the customer’s car when they arrive,” Brockhouse said. “We also screen all customers for COVID before we set up an appointment in an effort to keep our customers and our technicians safe.

“We use job rate pricing from the blue book instead of charging by the hour. In this way we are able to give the customer an accurate estimate for repair, regardless of which technician does the work. Generally, more experienced techs are faster, and newer techs tend to take longer to do the job, but

by using job rate pricing we charge the same amount.”

When the pandemic started, The Bath and Tile Company — which has been in downtown Omaha for 10 years — stopped making appointments, owner Charles Gifford said.

“We hung out in the store, which is a very pleasant place to hang out,” he said.

“Fortunately, we had some bigger projects already lined up and ready to roll. We kept our heads down and went at it.”

Also bolstering business during the past year were returning customers who were taking this time to make new Gifford home improvements.

“They wanted to have things fixed up,” Gifford said. “I would say that our average job is smaller, but we perhaps make up for that by having more jobs.”

The firm is also doing things it hadn’t done before, like basements or outdoor spaces. Gifford’s wife, Michele van Deventer, is a landscape architect.

“I’m seriously concerned about what’s happening to downtown Omaha,” Gifford said.

“There are a lot of empty retail storefronts, not just because of (COVID-19) but other factors, such as the internet. So we’re wondering what will drive downtown Omaha when the city tries to return to something like normal.”

Advertise in MBJ! Contact us to advertise in the Midlands Business Journal or one of our special sections today!

To advertise your company’s products or services in one of our upcoming sections, contact our Director of Advertising at karla@mbj.com

Salute to Small Business • Midlands Business Journal • APRIL 2, 2021 •

Financial relief still available for small businesses

by Jasmine Heimgartner

While hope may be on the horizon, some small businesses continue to struggle and feel the financial impact of the pandemic. Luckily, small businesses don’t have to go it alone.

Along with the extension of the Paycheck Protection Program through May 31, the Economic Injury Disaster Loan and other programs can provide some relief.

“Some business owners think that because they received assistance last spring or summer, that they are not eligible for the latest rounds of relief, or that because they received a PPP loan, they are disqualified from utilizing other programs, such as the Employee Retention Credit,” said Jim Sousley, Seim Johnson partner and CPA. “Businesses that did not apply for PPP loans last summer may think it’s too late to get any assistance under the Economic Aid Act. That act gives an opportunity for first-time PPP applicants to apply for a potentially forgivable loan under the broader qualifications of the first round PPP program. Finally, don’t forget that independent contractors — Uber drivers, photographers, hairstylists, etc. — may be eligible for these PPP loans as well.”

With the second round of PPP, there has been a larger focus on the hardest hit businesses, especially the hospitality industry.

Restaurants and other hospitality businesses are eligible for larger loans in this round.

The maximum loan amount is smaller than the 2020 PPP loans, at $2 million, and the business can have only 300 or fewer employees per location. This go around, while a business must still use at least 60% of the loan against qualified payroll costs to meet full forgiveness, the remaining 40% of the

loan can be used for expenses such as operations, property damage, supplier costs and worker protection.

most recent census data. In Omaha, many of those areas are east of 72nd Street. We are sending letters, and there is no application

Sousley Wise “The other changes with the PPP were all about access to the program,” said Dave Wise, TS Bank senior vice president of business banking. “Many businesses were able to get smaller loans or found out they were eligible. For us, the changes with this act vastly impacted farmers. They got access because they could use the gross number if they didn’t have employees. The same applies for sole proprietors that don’t have employees and don’t show big profit numbers.”

Lessons learned from the first round of assistance showed a need to be more targeted. The new Targeted EIDL Advance is for businesses located in federally identified low-income communities that can demonstrate a reduction in revenue of more than 30% during an eight-week period beginning on March 2 or later.

“There are additional EIDL funds, up to $10,000 if in a targeted geographic area,” said Leon Milobar, SBA district director. “It is for low-income individuals based on the

Milobar Sassaman process. EIDL will run through December.

This is a low-interest loan. This year, they are allowing 18 months for deferral to give business owners time for their business to recover.”

The SBA is currently working on additional programs to roll out. The Navigator Program will be a yearlong grant program for minorities and underserved markets that may not have the technology available to apply for loans. It will include using community-based organizations to reach out to smaller microbusinesses. In April, the Shuttered Venues Grant program will be available for nonprofits and businesses including concert halls, zoos and movie theaters. The recent stimulus package also has $28 billion set aside for bars and restaurants.

No matter the type of small business, staying afloat requires a clear understanding of the where the business is sitting and strong communication with lenders.

“The people that call in that aren’t neces-

11

sarily to the point where their doors are going to close, but their savings are running out,” said Nick Sassaman, Cornhusker Bank vice president. “They know business is reduced because people have less money. The first thing we suggest is that if there are any signs of depleting cash assets or reduced customer traffic, that will ultimately lead to making it harder to pay back a loan. Seek advice as soon as possible. Also remember that we have seen an equal number of good Huerter stories as sad stories.

We have seen businesses that have closed down, even some that received help, but we have also seen small and large businesses flourish.”

A key to getting a business back on its feet is not hesitating to seek help. While some business owners may think others need more help than they do, the SBA, government and treasury established the 2021 program with a model so that they have enough money to support all eligible businesses.

“Our biggest piece of advice is for businesses is to be forthcoming about their situation because there are bankers ready to help,” said Jim Huerter, Security National Bank senior vice president business banking team lead. “It is tough for them because they are so proud of the businesses they’ve built, but these are not normal times. For us, as a family-owned business, we understand and are looking for ways to help them. If you are struggling, look for help from bankers or suppliers who can help find solutions.”

12

• APRIL 2, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal • Salute to Small Business

Special Advertising Section

SALUTE TO SMALL BUSINESS

"WHAT WE DO IS PRETTY SPECIALIZED AND WE FOCUS ON THE CRAFTSMANSHIP OF WHAT WE DO."

~ KIMBERLY REMMEREID, FOUNDER

CONTOUR CONSTRUCTION CONTOUR CONSTRUCTION, owned by Kimberly Remmereid, was founded in 2015 and began with just two employees. Contour has since grown to employ about 45 highly skilled and talented individuals.

They provide installation services for finish trim and carpentry, select rough carpentry, casework, all types of washroom accessories, specialty items, all types of frames, doors, and hardware. Contour Construction is a certified WOSB (Woman Owned Small Business), a City of Omaha Certified Tier II Emerging Small Business, and is currently AWI – QCP

(Architectural Wood Work Institute – Quality Certification Program) Certified.

While there have been many challenges, Remmereid has navigated the male-dominated industry by building solid relationships, not being afraid to stand out, and learning not to take things too personally. One of the biggest challenges, due to the skills gap in the construction industry, is hiring and retaining quality employees. We are turning to local trade schools to recruit talent with skills and knowledge.

She’s also learned to take advantages of community

resources to increase the success of her business. For example, being a certified WOSB helps to level the playing field with exclusive bidding rights and increased visibility through government marketplace.

CONTOUR-CONSTRUCT.COM • (402) 238-2362

Salute to Small Business • Midlands Business Journal • APRIL 2, 2021 •

Special Advertising Section

SALUTE TO SMALL BUSINESS "OUR CLIENTS HAD TO QUICKLY ADAPT TO NEW WAYS OF OPERATING IN THE PANDEMIC. WE KNEW THAT DEPLOYING OUR RAPID RESPONSE TEAM TO ACT SWIFTLY ON THEIR BEHALF WAS ESSENTIAL TO HELPING THEM NAVIGATE THE UNPRECEDENTED CHALLENGES. GOING FORWARD, THIS TEAM WILL REMAIN AS A UNIQUE DIVISION OF OUR FIRM AS WE SERVE CLIENTS AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL POSSIBLE." ~ SCOTT A. BECKER, CPA, CVA, CFP, CGMA, MANAGING PARTNER

HBE LLP | RAPID RESPONSE TEAM HELPS BUSINESSES RECOVER FROM COVID-19 HBE IS A LEADING PROVIDER of professional accounting and consulting services throughout Nebraska.

With nearly 120 team members, operating from office locations in Lincoln, Norfolk, and Omaha, the firm offers a complete range of financial management services for businesses, not-for-profit and governmental organizations, niche industries, and individuals. These services include specialized advisory, tax, audit, data analytics, outsourced accounting and CFO solutions, personal financial planning, and wealth management.

In hospital settings, a Rapid Response Team (RRT) is a group of highly-trained, multi-disciplinary professionals who are called upon to prevent a medical emergency when a patient begins to show signs

of immediate distress. When this team is called upon, the patient becomes the center of attention, with the only goal being to determine the most appropriate course of action to help them recover.

In early 2020, when it became apparent that businesses in our communities were beginning to suffer from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, HBE created their own Rapid Response Team to support their clients through the significant economic strain of the crisis. Like a healthcare RRT, which includes a variety of clinicians, HBE’s Rapid Response Team is comprised of specialized advisors from across the firm with expert-level knowledge in the areas of advisory, tax, accounting, assurance, and wealth management.

The team’s holistic approach to

helping clients navigate the complexities of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, the Employee Retention Credit, and other economic relief measures has helped over 500 businesses survive the pandemic. Through frequent communications, webinars, and direct client outreach efforts, HBE’s Rapid Response Team continues to provide businesses with the information they need in order to take advantage of economic relief opportunities and recover from COVID-19.

HBECPA.COM • (402) 423-4343

13

14

• APRIL 2, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands Business Journal

Diversity & Inclusion A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands Business Journal

Topics may include: State of diversity & inclusion in Omaha • D&I programs for businesses Tips for HR professionals on addressing issues in workplace Highlight of D&I champions in Omaha business community Increased demand for D&I leadership roles in companies

Issue Date: April 16 • Ad Deadline: April 8

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE Lincoln Business Journal Pages

Topics may include: Construction overview • Growth at local firms Project highlights • Safety a top priority Lincoln construction careers in demand Issue Date: April 16 • Ad Deadline: April 8

Invest for Retirement

Technology A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands Business Journal

A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands Business Journal

Topics may include:

Topics may include:

Omaha’s growing tech community • App development Equity in access to technology • Health tech in the Heartland How small businesses can stay relevant in fast-paced digital world

Industry outlook • Investing in a healthy retirement Creating a legacy plan • Alternatives to 401(k)s Investing in real estate post-retirement

Issue Date: April 23 • Ad Deadline: April 15

Issue Date: April 30 • Ad Deadline: April 22

To advertise your company’s products or services in one of our upcoming sections, contact our Director of Advertising at karla@mbj.com.

Midlands Business Journal • APRIL 2, 2021 •

15

A big wave of pandemic bankruptcies never happened. Here’s why

by Laurence Darmiento

The pandemic produced the kind of fallout that gives economists nightmares.

An initial drop in economic output that exceeded the Great DepresFinances sion. Sudden job losses that outpaced modern records.

But there’s one economic bellwether that has seemingly painted an even rosy picture: bankruptcies, which have so far lagged behind their total in the year before the pandemic.

Yes, the number of personal and business bankruptcies filed last year in the country fell by nearly 30% from 2019 despite COVID-19. The decline was largely driven by a roughly 31% fall in personal bankruptcies but also a nearly 5% slide in filings due to business debts, according to U.S. Bankruptcy Court statistics.

The court’s Central District of California — which includes Los Angeles, Orange and five other counties — has been no exception, experiencing a 27% decline in all cases, including a 15% decline in POWER USERS

Answers on page 16.

business-related filings.

Filings are still down so far this year, and to get an understanding of how that might be possible considering two restaurants that closed after the pandemic hit: the popular Souplantation buffet chain and Olive Tree Restaurant, a standalone Middle Eastern eatery in Anaheim, California.

With more than 4,000 employees and 97 restaurants operating under two names in 10 states, Souplantation’s parent, Garden Fresh Restaurant Corp., decided to file for federal bankruptcy protection, selling off its assets and handling its creditors in court.

The owner of Olive Tree, however, simply worked out a deal with his landlord to get out of his lease and shut the doors of the restaurant. He figures he could’ve sold the eatery for $500,000 in normal times.

“I left that on the table. I don’t have any debt, but I have nothing,” former owner Alan Abdo said. “This coronavirus thing changed the world.”

The different outcomes are hardly atypical: Big companies that died have tended to go to Bankruptcy Court, while an unknown number of smaller businesses simply shut down.

Business filings would have been even lower if not for a rise in Chapter 11 cases, which allow companies to reorganize.

And many of those cases were filed in a handful of courts favored by large corporations with complicated businesses that required separate filings for individual subsidiaries. Two-thirds of U.S. Bankruptcy Court districts saw no increase in Chapter 11 filings.

The biggest bankruptcy last year was Hertz, which had amassed some $23 billion in debt after business and personal travel screeched to a halt early on in the pandemic. Other notable bankruptcies included retailers J.C. Penney and Neiman Marcus — two retailers already struggling because of online rivals — and Chesapeake Energy, a victim of depressed demand for oil and gas.

There was one record set last year, which was by the 62 public and private companies that had assets of $1 billion or more before filing for bankruptcy. That topped the 58 in 2009, according to New Generation Research, a Boston firm that operates the BankruptcyData website.

However, a broader measure of corporate distress was less dire: There were only 110 publicly traded companies — including smaller ones not traded on major exchanges — that filed for bankruptcy.

That was more than the 64 in 2019 but well under the 211 in 2009 amid the Great Recession or the 263 in 2001 after the tech bust, the BankruptcyData numbers show.

“For a while, I was very convinced that [filings] were going to pop down the line, but 12 months into this they haven’t,” said Ed Flynn, a consultant with the American Bankruptcy Institute, who notes national filings were still down in the middle of March by some 45% compared with the same period last year when the pandemic-related shutdowns started.

“They are down to levels we haven’t seen since the mid-1980s,” he said.

There are some obvious reasons that

help explain the counterintuitive trend, especially the deluge of cash the U.S. government has pumped into the economy to help keep entire industries and businesses afloat — and put money directly into consumers’ pockets through higher unemployment benefits, as well as stimulus checks showered on even middle-class families, including the $1,400 that landed this month.

Other measures to protect individuals from the pandemic turmoil also have probably lowered the rate of personal bankruptcies, including eviction bans, foreclosure moratoriums and federal student-loan payment freezes — which were extended by the Biden administration but are still set to expire this year.

“Clearly people, mainly through government actions, have not yet felt the pain, and have not had the type of event that would precipitate a bankruptcy. They may not be paying their rent or their mortgage, but they are not being foreclosed on yet,” Flynn said.

And for those debts not subject to any governmental restraint on collections there have been practical considerations, including a pandemic-related backlog in California state courts that have made it challenging for creditors to get judgments, L.A.-area bankruptcy attorneys say.

Unless debtors are facing an immediate threat — such as a seizure of assets or garnishment of a wage — they will often avoid bankruptcy, which is costly and time-consuming in itself.

“It’s a trustee looking into every transaction in your economic sock drawer. It’s just not a pleasant or good thing,” said L.A. bankruptcy attorney J. Scott Bovitz.

“Individuals don’t tend to file bankruptcy unless they really, really need to. As long as there are a couple of dollars coming in the door from somewhere they tend to put it off.”

Still, that doesn’t mean there hasn’t been economic pain that has stretched for months.

Weekly jobless claims rose nationwide in mid-March, and a recent report by the state Employment Development Department found that California shed more than 145,000 payroll jobs in December and January, recovering just 39% of the 2.7 million jobs lost to the pandemic. The national recovery is further along with 56% of jobs recovered by January, but that still meant millions of lost jobs.

However, the damage was mostly felt at the lower end of the labor market, as 80% of 9.6 million net jobs lost were occupied by workers in the bottom quartile of wage earners, according to a report by the Economic Policy Institute.

Those are the kinds of jobs offered by the hard-hit hospitality and restaurant industries, where workers typically don’t file for bankruptcy. Flynn notes that personal bankruptcy filings are often made by middle-class people seeking to protect homes and other assets, as opposed to those with less wealth, who may have few assets to protect and less ability to cover the costs of the process.

The National Restaurant Association estimated in December that more than 110,000 restaurants had closed either Continued on next page.

16

• APRIL 2, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

A big wave of pandemic bankruptcies never happened. Here’s why Continued from preceding page. temporarily or permanently. Coresight Research reports there were 8,736 announced store closures last year and only 3,300 announced openings — with about 1,500 of the new stores in the dollar store category.

Yet, there has been a well-documented boom in online sales, and new business formation dropped only 14% during the first year of the pandemic, according to Yelp, with about 487,500 new business openings from March 11, 2020, through March 1 of this year. About 76,000 were restaurant and food businesses, while nearly 287,000 were professional, local, home and auto businesses, down only 1%.

Comprehensive numbers on total business closures, either permanent or temporary, are hard to come by for some of the same reasons that Bankruptcy Court filings may not reflect the true extent of

the damage suffered by business owners.

Similar to Olive Tree owner Abdo, Kay Osario, owner of Awesome Playground, a Los Angeles indoor playground and party space for young children, simply shut the business’ doors when the pandemic arrived.

“My husband and I were pretty conservative investors, so we were never in a situation where we were in a lot of debt that would put us in a position even with COVID where we would have to declare bankruptcy,” she said.

Even Garden Fresh Restaurants flirted with the idea of liquidating its assets before settling on a Chapter 7 filing in court as the best way to handle its situation, including for its employees who may have claims, said John Haywood, the San Diego company’s chief executive at the time.

“It just brought it to a very firm con-

clusion and an organized one,” he said.

“Some of these other forms you literally just liquidate the company. There’s not an organized venue for people to work with.”

Economist Chris Thornberg, founder of Beacon Economics in L.A., thinks a key reason there has been no bankruptcy tsunami is simply that the extent of the economic damage has been overstated.

Unlike the lead-up to the Great Recession, when the housing market collapsed amid unsustainable debt loads, he notes that personal debt loads were at historic lows early last year, even for low-income workers. He estimates that perhaps 7 million people have been absorbing the brunt of the economic pain during the pandemic, while the huge stimulus has thrown off so much cash that better-off Americans have paid down debts or dumped it into the stock and housing markets, which have

Restaurants fighting to rebound are encountering a new challenge

by Amber Randall

As restaurants reopen in South Florida after a difficult year marked by hundreds of thousands of laid-off or furloughed workers, they are facing a new — and surprising — problem: A shortage Restaurants of staff.

It’s a mystery restaurant owners are struggling to understand: In an economy where unemployment is still high, especially in the restaurant and hospitality industry, why can’t they find enough kitchen workers, servers and hosts to staff their establishments?

“This is definitely a crisis,” Carlos Gazitua owner of the restaurant chain Sergio’s Cuban Cafe & Grill. “We can’t find people and we don’t know where the candidates are.”

Gazitua said that in his years working in the restaurant industry, he’s never had such a

Beeso Studio secures Continued from page 2. work with now.”

Although still relatively new to the scene, Beeso Studio hasn’t lost out on any success, even during the pandemic. In 2020, the company doubled in size with revenue boosting seven times more than the previous year.

“Looking at our growth trajectory right now, we’re probably going to double again this year, and our revenue will be five to nine times more,” Bunting said. “Right now, we’re really focused on figuring out how to scale and keep doing what we’re doing. As we progress, the startups we work with will also reap the benefits.”

This year, the goal is to move into the corporate innovation space.

“We want to work with corporations by essentially taking our model and applying some of the same principles and infrastructure to help them innovate and capture new streams of revenue and get into new markets,” he said. “Eventually, after some of our startups get to an exit, we also want to be able to take some of the capital we receive and reinvest that in our own investment fund for early-stage startups. With that, we want to help grow and launch startups in Omaha.

The plan is to invigorate and rejuvenate the entire startup space as a whole in the next couple of years.”

problem. Applicants aren’t calling him back and as many as eight in 10 new hires simply don’t show up for their first shifts.

The shortage is hitting his franchises hard, he said. His Brickell location can only do takeout and delivery. His Coral Way location can only do outdoor seating because there isn’t enough staff to also serve the indoor dining room. He is short about 25% of staff in some locations.

“We are even putting fliers on our Uber deliveries saying that we are looking for workers,” said Gazitua, who also serves as the restaurant director on executive committee of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association.

As restaurants crawl back from the darkest days of the pandemic shutdowns, employment in the industry still hasn’t returned to where it was before COVID-19 struck. Employment for leisure and hospitality workers plummeted last spring as much of the state went into lockdowns and businesses were under capacity restrictions. The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association estimates that a total of 600,000 workers were laid off during the pandemic and about 10,000 restaurants were forced to close in the state.

Statistics released by the U.S. Department of Labor on Friday show that less than half of the lost jobs have returned.

Despite the statistics, restaurants are hiring. At least they’re trying to.

Dr. Peter Ricci, associate professor and director of the hospitality management program at Florida Atlantic University, said there are more job opportunities available now than there were a year ago but restaurants still struggle to find qualified workers for their kitchens and dining rooms.

That shortage is forcing restaurants to make tough decisions about how to operate.

Some restaurants in South Florida have had to shut down early, limit seating areas or pay workers overtime, Gazitua said.

“Some of our current workers are working six or seven days a week. Managers and the corporate teams are jumping into the kitchen,” Gazitua said. “With no one to work, it’s going to impact potential sales and it’s going to force them to close down dining rooms and stick to just take-out and delivery.”

Cuba Libre, a restaurant on Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale has been seeking workers in time for their grand opening

festivities. The plan was to open for brunch and lunch but late next month, but the plans are in jeopardy because of a lack of staffing.

“The problem will be exacerbated when we are adding lunch and brunch. We are going to have to throttle back the number of guests we take if we don’t have the appropriate number of staff,” said. Barry Gutin, co-founder.

In order to be fully operational, they need a total of 60 workers and still need 20 more.

Erik Pettersen, chef at EVO Italian in Jupiter and Robert Egert with Catering with Robert out of Miami have run into Continued on page 25.

taken off.

“The vast majority of people who are screaming ‘End of the world,’ ‘Sky is falling’ were using the lens of the Great Recession,” he said, noting that slowdown dragged on for years.

By contrast, 12 months after the pandemic started, the forecast this year is for strong economic growth, with the Federal Reserve this month boosting its estimate to 6.5%, up from its 4.2% forecast in December.

In December, Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics, figured that the government’s support to the economy was simply kicking the problem down the road. He went so far as to say it was like “morphine that will wear off at some point” and that “there will be pain.”

He changed his outlook once Democrats won the two Georgia Senate seats and the party was able to jam through its latest $1.9-trillion stimulus measure, which brought the government’s total support to the economy to $5.3 trillion since the pandemic began — a huge inflow of money that amounts to about a quarter of GDP. He expects bankruptcies will rise and credit problems will emerge once the moratoriums are lifted and the government support is depleted, but strong economic growth should return bankruptcies to normal levels.

“It will be very modest in the grand scheme of things,” Zandi said. ©2021 Los Angeles Times Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC

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IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF DOUGLAS COUNTY, NEBRASKA Case D 01 CI 21 0002023 IN THE MATTER OF THE NAME CHANGE OF KATHERINE ANN WILLIAMS to KATHERINE ANN MEIER NOTICe OF PETITION FOR NAME CHANGE pursuant to RRS § 2521,270 And Notice of Hearing Judge Dougherty – 4/22/2021 @ 9:00AM Notice is hereby given that on March 4, 2021, Katherine Ann Williams filed a Petition for Name Change in this Court. The object and prayer of said Petition is to change Petitioner’s name from Katherine Ann Williams to Katherine Ann Meier. An (in person) hearing will be held on such Petition for Name Change before the Honorable Judge Duane Dougherty in Courtroom #503, 5th Floor of the Douglas County Nebraska Hall of Justice (or, if a Courtroom change, in the Courtroom # as posted on #503 door or advised by the then current bailiff in #503), 17th & Farnam Streets, Omaha, Nebraska 68102 on Thursday, April 22, 2021 at 9:00 AM, or as soon thereafter as said hearing can be convened. Unless sufficient cause is shown to the contrary, at that hearing Petitioner’s name will be changed from Katherine Ann Williams to Katherine Ann Meier, as prayed for. Dated: March 4, 2021 KATHERINE ANN WILLIAMS, Petitioner By /s/ Joseph J. Skudlarek Joseph J. Skudlarek #13869 1055 North 115 Street #301 Omaha NE 68154 402 522 6001 jjskudlarek@jjskudlarek.com Petitioner’s Attorney First publication March 12, 2021, final April 2, 2021

BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103 Omaha, Nebraska 68164 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF JRB REALTY, LLC Notice is hereby given that a professional limited liability company has been formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the company is JRB Realty, LLC. The company, its members, managers and professional employees are authorized to render the following professional service: Sale of Real Estate. The name and street address of the company’s initial registered agent is Law Offices of Barbara Medbery-Prchal, P.C., L.L.O., 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103, Omaha, NE 68164. The designated office is located at 2938 Bridgeford Road, Omaha, NE 68124. The John Begley, Member First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

GROSS & WELCH, P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 2120 South 72 Street, Suite 1500 Omaha, Nebraska 68124 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF ADRIAN ENZASTIGA & ASSOC. LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company Notice is hereby given that ADRIAN ENZASTIGA & ASSOC. LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with its designated office located at 13304 West Center Road, Omaha, Nebraska 68144, its registered agent is Frederick D. Stehlik, and its registered office located at 2120 South 72 Street, Suite 1500, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The general nature of its business is to engage in and do any lawful act concerning any and all lawful business, other than banking or insurance, for which a limited liability company may be organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Certificate of Organization was filed in the office of the Nebraska Secretary of State on October 16, 2020, the Company commenced business thereon, and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the Company are to be conducted by the Managing Member.

Frederick D. Stehlik, Organizer First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

BENJAMIN J. PICK, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF STOIC PARTNERS LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of Stoic Partners LLC: 1. The name of the limited liability company is Stoic Partners LLC; and 2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is Benjamin Pick, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

BENJAMIN J. PICK, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF PARK AVE CAPITAL LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of Park Ave Capital LLC: 1. The name of the limited liability company is Park Ave Capital LLC; and 2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is Benjamin Pick, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

BENJAMIN J. PICK, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF PARK AVE CAPITAL DR LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of Park Ave Capital DR LLC: 1. The name of the limited liability company is Park Ave Capital DR LLC; and 2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is Benjamin Pick, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

BENJAMIN J. PICK, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF 4813 UNDERWOOD PARTNERS LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of 4813 Underwood Partners LLC: 1. The name of the limited liability company is 4813 Underwood Partners LLC; and 2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is Benjamin Pick, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

BENJAMIN J. PICK, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF STOIC PRESERVE MANAGEMENT LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of Stoic Preserve Management LLC: 1. The name of the limited liability company is Stoic Preserve Management LLC; and 2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is Benjamin Pick, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION of a Limited Liability Company Notice is hereby given the registration with the Nebraska Secretary of state’s office of PDT Construction, LLC under the laws of the State of Nebraska as follows: The name of the company is PDT Construction, LLC. Registered agent and office of PDT Construction, LLC is Santiago Reyna Salinas at PDT Construction, LLC. The designated address is 5313 A Street, Omaha, NE 68106. Initial members: Santiago Reyna Salinas. General nature of the business is to transact any and all lawful business for which limited liability companies are allowed by statute. The LLC was organized in March 2021 for the perpetual duration and is managed by its members.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

17

Darren R Carlson, Attorney CARLSON & BURNETT, LLP 17525 Arbor Street Omaha, Nebraska 68130 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF PANEL COLD STORAGE, LLC Notice is hereby given that PANEL COLD STORAGE, LLC is organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The initial designated office is 17525 Arbor Street, Omaha, NE 68130. The Company’s initial registered agent in the State of Nebraska is: Darren R Carlson, whose address is 17525 Arbor Street, Omaha, NE 68130. The purpose of the Company is to engage in any lawful business and activity, as may be mutually agreed upon by the Members from time to time, and which are not prohibited by the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The Company commenced with filing its Certificate of Organization on March 11, 2021, and shall have a perpetual period of duration. The Company is a Manager Managed Limited Liability Company. The initial Manager of the Company is Tom Erickson whose address is 15018 Wirt Circle, Omaha, NE 68116.

Darren R Carlson, Organizer First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

BENJAMIN J. PICK, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF 3 BOUCHONS, LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of 3 Bouchons, LLC: 1. The name of the limited liability company is 3 Bouchons, LLC; and 2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 17527 Adams Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68135, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is Benjamin J. Pick, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

Notice is hereby given that Eccker Sports Group, LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 14301 FNB Parkway, Suite 100, Omaha, NE 68154. The initial agent for service of process of the Company is Kelsey M. Weiler, 14301 FNB Parkway, Suite 100, Omaha, NE 68154.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF DOMESTICATION OF RD SOLES AND ASSOCIATES, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that RD Soles and Associates, LLC has domesticated to the State of Nebraska from the State of Virginia.

The Designated Office of the Company is 15821 Jackson Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68118. The Registered Office of the Company is: 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124, and the Registered Agent at such address is Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O. The domestication was accomplished by the filing of Articles of Domestication and Certificate of Organization with the Nebraska Secretary of State on March 11, 2021.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

Julia K. Palzer, Attorney at Law KELLOGG & PALZER, P.C. 10828 Old Mill Road, Suite 6 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION 1. The name of the Company is CHAOS & CAS CO., LLC. 2. The street address of the initial designated office is 1056 N. Pine Street, Wahoo, Nebraska, 68066. The registered agent is Autumn Gerrish and the Registered Agent's address is 1056 N. Pine Street, Wahoo, Nebraska, 68066.

3. The general nature of the Company is fashion design and retail.

4. The Company commenced on March 11, 2021, and shall have perpetual existence.

5. The affairs of the Company are to be conducted by Members, the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and such other officers as the Members shall determine.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

BURNES LAW OFFICE 5017 Leavenworth Street, Suite 103 Omaha, Nebraska 68106-1438 In the District Court of Douglas County Nebraska: To: WHOM IT MAY CONCERN You are hereby notified that on March 9, 2021, Rose Marie Teeters as PLaintiff filed her Petition for Name Change in the District Court of Douglas County Nebraska at Case No: CI21-2205. The object of the Petition is for the Plaintiff to change her name from Rose Marie Teeters to Romi Anna Frances Spicka.

You must file an Answer/responsive pleading with the Douglas County District Court on or before May 9, 2021 or said Petition will be granted.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 9, 2021

18

• APRIL 2, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

Legal notices LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES CATHERINE E. FRENCH, Attorney LAMSON, DUGAN and MURRAY, LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3743 NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF GUAC N ROLL, LLC Notice is hereby given of the formation of a limited liability company under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the limited liability company is GUAC N ROLL, LLC. The address of the company’s initial designated office is 8610 Brentwood Drive, #3, LaVista, NE 68128.

The name and address of the registered agent and office is LDM Business Services, Inc, 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business.

The company commenced existence on March 17, 2021 and shall have perpetual duration. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by the Members, as prescribed by the Operating Agreement.

LDM Business Services, Inc., Organizer First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103 Omaha, Nebraska 68164 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF MICROBLASTERS, LLC Notice is hereby given that a limited liability company has been formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the company is Microblasters, LLC The name and street address of the company’s initial registered agent is Law Offices of Barbara Medbery-Prchal, P.C., L.L.O., 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103, Omaha, NE 68164. The designated office is located at 12513 Pheasant Run Circle, Papillion, NE 68046.

Robert Niles, Members First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

Anne K. Burnett, Attorney CARLSON & BURNETT, LLP 17525 Arbor Street Omaha, Nebraska 68130 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF GUYNAN WEALTH MANAGEMENT, LLC Notice is hereby given that GUYNAN WEALTH MANAGEMENT, LLC is organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The initial designated office is 17525 Arbor Street, Omaha, Nebraska, 68130. The Company’s initial registered agent in the State of Nebraska is: Anne K. Burnett, whose address is 17525 Arbor Street, Omaha, Nebraska, 68130.

The purpose of the Company is to engage in any lawful business and activity, as may be mutually agreed upon by the Members from time to time, and which are not prohibited by the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The Company commenced with filing its Certificate of Organization on March 17, 2021, and shall have a perpetual period of duration. The Company is a Member Managed Limited Liability Company.

Anne K. Burnett, Organizer First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that JA ARTHUR, LLC, has been organized as a professional limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The designated office of the Company is 13804 Cuming Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68154. The registered agent of the Company is Thomas E. Whitmore, 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The Company's members, managers and professional employees are licensed or otherwise legally authorized to engage in the practice of medicine in the State of Nebraska. The Company was formed on March 17, 2021.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

Thomas H. Penke, Attorney for Applicant 12030 Shamrock Plaza, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 LEGAL NOTICE In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR20-1769 ESTATE OF LORI M. POLEN, Deceased.

Notice is hereby given that on the 17 day of November, 2020, in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, the Registrar issued a written statement of Informal Probate of the Will of said Deceased person, and that GAIL M. BUCHANAN, whose address is 51221 South 176th Avenue Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68136, has been appointed Personal Representative of this estate.

Creditors of this estate must file their claims with this Court, located at Courtroom No. 330, Third Floor, Probate Division, Douglas County Hall of Justice, 17th & Farnam Streets, Omaha, NE 68183, on or before May 26, 2021 or be forever barred.

CARROL L. MILLS Registrar First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that The Security Company, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The Designated Office of the Company is 14104 Edna Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68138. The Registered Agent of the Company is Thomas E. Whitmore, 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The Company was formed on March 10, 2021.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is Hereby Given that NUR TRANSPORTS, LLC, has been Organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska on 03/12/2020. The Designated Office: 10104 Grand Plz, Omaha, NE 68134. Registered Agent: Nebraska Registered Agents Inc., 530 S. 13th Street, STE 100, Lincoln, NE 68508. The General nature of business is Transports Service. The Company shall be manager-managed by: Tyrell M. Donald.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103 Omaha, Nebraska 68164 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF POOLS, INC. Notice is hereby given that a corporation has been formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the corporation is POOLS, INC. The corporation is authorized to issue 10,000 shares of common stock. The name of the corporation’s initial registered agent is Law Offices of Barbara Medbery-Prchal, P.C., L.L.O., and the registered office address is 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103, Omaha, NE 68164, The corporation’s incorporator is Brad Meck, 27801 Jones Street, Waterloo, NE 68069.

Brad Meck, Incorporator First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103 Omaha, Nebraska 68164 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF MVMT PROPERTIES, LLC Notice is hereby given that a professional limited liability company has been formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the company is MVMT PROPERTIES, LLC. The company, its members, managers and professional employees are authorized to render the following professional service: Sale of Real Estate. The name and street address of the company’s initial registered agent is Law Offices of Barbara MedberyPrchal, P.C., L.L.O., 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103, Omaha, NE 68164.

The designated office is located at 4328 N. 143rd Street, Omaha, NE 68164.

Tonya Moore, Member First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that Zhouse Investmentz, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The address of the Company’s designated office is 1910 S 44th Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68105, and the name of the registered agent at such address is Tran & Associates Law, LLC. The general nature of the business is any legal and lawful activity allowed pursuant to the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act and the laws of the State of Nebraska and elsewhere. The Company commenced business on 10/01/2021 and shall have perpetual existence unless dissolved in accordance with its Certificate of Organization, its Operating Agreement or the Limited Liability Company Act. Unless otherwise provided in the Company’s Operating Agreement, the affairs of the Company are to be managed by its managers.

Khanh NgocLuu Tran, Organizer/Member First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that Amazing Four, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The address of the Company’s designated office is 1910 S. 44th Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68105, and the name of the registered agent at such address is Tran & Associates Law, LLC. The general nature of the business is any legal and lawful activity allowed pursuant to the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act and the laws of the State of Nebraska and elsewhere. The Company commenced business on 11/23/2020 and shall have perpetual existence unless dissolved in accordance with its Certificate of Organization, its Operating Agreement or the Limited Liability Company Act. Unless otherwise provided in the Company’s Operating Agreement, the affairs of the Company are to be managed by its members.

Khanh NgocLuu Tran, Organizer/Member First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF GLEN OAKS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Glen Oaks, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 4510 Primrose Lane, Omaha, Nebraska 68157. The registered agent and office of the limited liability company is Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O., 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124.

The limited liability company commenced business on March 16, 2021.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

HUSCH BLACKWELL LLP, Attorneys 13330 California Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF SFF NE PPP, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that SFF NE PPP, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska on March 10, 2021 (the “Company”). The Company has designated its registered agent as Sower Farmland Managers, LLC, with registered office at 13575 Lynam Drive, Omaha, NE 68138. The Company’s initial designated office is at 13575 Lynam Drive, Omaha, NE 68138. The Company shall be governed by one or more managers. The general nature of business is any lawful purpose.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

ADAMS & SULLIVAN, P.C., Attorneys 1246 Golden Gate Drive, Suite 1 Papillion, Nebraska 68046-2843 NOTICE OF AMENDMENT TO THE CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION OF DONE RIGHT INVESTMENTS, L.L.C. Designated Office: 2627 N. 90th Street, Omaha, NE 68134 Registered Agent: Adams & Sullivan, P.C., L.L.O. The limited liability company has amended its Certificate of Organization. The amendment was filed to amend the name of the Company to DRI, LLC. In all other respects the Certificate is the same and ratified and reconfirmed.

Thomas A. Shaw, Member First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

JAMES D. BUSER, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF TRACE MILLER HAIR, LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of Trace Miller Hair, LLC. 1. The name of the limited liability company is Trace Miller Hair, LLC. 2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 10958 Marcy Plaza, Omaha, Nebraska 68154, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is James D. Buser, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that LLG Business Services, LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 14301 FNB PKWY, STE 100, Omaha, NE 68154. The initial agent for service of process of the Company is Aimee L. Lowe at 14301 FNB PKWY, STE 100, Omaha, NE 68154.

Aimee L. Lowe, Organizer First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that Essential Breastfeeding Support, LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 16410 Fowler Ave, Omaha, NE 68116. The initial agent for service of process of the Company is Aimee L. Lowe at 14301 FNB PKWY, STE 100, Omaha, NE 68154.

Aimee L. Lowe, Organizer First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

ERICKSON l SEDERSTROM, P.C., Attorneys 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF 3803 KRUG, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that 3803 Krug, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company has been duly organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with its designated office located at 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114 and designating its registered agent as Erickson & Sederstrom, P.C., a limited liability organization with its registered office at 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

Midlands Business Journal • APRIL 2, 2021 • Legal notices LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES Robert J. Kmiecik STINSON 1299 Farnam Street, Suite 1500 Omaha, Nebraska 68102 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF BattleBuds, LLC Notice is hereby given that a Nebraska limited liability company named BattleBuds, LLC (the “Company”) was formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office of the Company is 3508 N. 47th St., Omaha, Nebraska 68104 and the Company’s initial agent for service of process at such address is Kyle Keener, 3508 N. 47th St., Omaha, Nebraska 68104.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

ERICKSON l SEDERSTROM, P.C., Attorneys 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF KRITZER6, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Kritzer6, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company has been duly organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with its designated office located at 4221 North 203rd Street, Suite 200, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022 and designating its registered agent as Erickson & Sederstrom, P.C. a limited liability organization with its registered office at 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

THOMAS H. PENKE, Attorney 12020 Shamrock Plaza, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 LEGAL NOTICE In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR21-404 ESTATE OF LORI J. MONJAREZ-HILL, Deceased Notice is hereby given that on 10 day of March, 2021 in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, DEREK HILL, whose address is 2701 South 60th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68106, has been appointed Personal Representative of this estate.

Creditors of this estate must file their claims with this Court, located at Courtroom No. 330, Third Floor, Probate Division, Douglas County Hall of Justice, 17th & Farnam Streets, Omaha, NE 68183, on or before May 19, 2021 or be forever barred.

CARROL L. MILLS Registrar First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF LTC PHARMACY SOLUTIONS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that LTC Pharmacy Solutions, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 18807 Sahler Street, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022. The registered agent and office of the limited liability company is Kenneth W. Klaasmeyer, 18807 Sahler Street, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022. The limited liability company commenced business on March 11, 2021.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF DISCOVERY OPPORTUNITIES, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Discovery Opportunities, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 13030 Pierce Street, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68144. The registered agent and office of the limited liability company is Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O., 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The limited liability company commenced business on March 11, 2021.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

ABRAHAMS KASLOW & CASSMAN LLP, Attorneys 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Lebens Pearl District, LLC has been organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The address of the initial designated office of the company is 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The name and street and mailing address of the initial registered agent of the company for service of process are Thomas J. Malicki, Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman LLP, 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

19

ABRAHAMS KASLOW & CASSMAN LLP, Attorneys 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION RAWR Investments, LLC has been organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The address of the initial designated office of the company is 2219 North 186th Street, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022. The name and street and mailing address of the initial registered agent of the company for service of process are Thomas J. Malicki, Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman LLP, 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

ABRAHAMS KASLOW & CASSMAN LLP, Attorneys 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION MG Promotions LLC has been organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office of the company is 5113 NW Radial Hwy, Omaha, Nebraska 68104. The name and street and mailing address of the initial registered agent of the company for service of process are M. Tyler Johnson, Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman LLP, 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

LAMSON DUGAN & MURRAY LLP, Attorneys 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3743 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: You are hereby notified that the following described property will be sold by Daniel C. Pauley, Trustee, at public auction to the highest bidder at the Farnam Street Level of the Douglas County City County Building, 1819 Farnam Street, Omaha, Nebraska, 68183 on May 12, 2021 at 9:00 a.m.

6518 Sprague Street, Omaha, NE 68104 Legally described as: All of Lot 20, Block 4 and that part of Lot 8, block 5, Camenzind Heights, an Addition to the City of Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska, more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point 105 feet North of the Southeast corner of Lot 8, Block 5; thence in a Northwesterly direction, 40 feet to a point on the South side of Sahler Street Cul-De-Sac; thence 8 feet in a straight line to the extreme Northeast corner of Lot 8; thence South along the East line of Lot 8, Block 5, 43.5 feet to the point of beginning.

The highest bidder will deposit with the Trustee on the day and time of the sale, a cashier’s check in the amount of $10,000.00 with the remainder to be received by 5:00 p.m. on the day of the sale, except this requirement is waived when the highest bidder is the beneficiary. The purchaser shall be responsible for all applicable fees or taxes, including the documentary stamp tax. This sale is made without any warranties as to title or condition of the property.

Daniel C. Pauley By: Jackson E. Stokes, #27102 LAMSON DUGAN & MURRAY LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, NE 68114 First publication March 19, 2021, final April 23, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF AMENDMENT TO THE ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION OF THE TAGGE*RUTHERFORD GROUP INC. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Articles of Incorporation of The Tagge*Rutherford Group Inc., a Nebraska corporation, have been amended to change the name of the corporation to: TF Financial Group, Inc. The Articles of Amendment were filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on January 21, 2021.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF BACH, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that BACH, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The limited liability company shall provide real estate services. The designated office of the limited liability company is 17838 Burke Street, Suite 102, Nebraska 68118. The registered agent and office of the limited liability company is Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O., 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The limited liability company commenced business on March 12, 2021.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION [RESTATED] Notice is hereby given that Sarah Nies, L.L.C. (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office of the Company is 18805 Polk Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68135. The Registered Agent of the Company is Sarah Nies, 18805 Polk Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68135. The Company was formed on February 22, 2021.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

NICK R TAYLOR, Attorney of FITZGERALD, SCHORR, BARMETTLER & BRENNAN, P.C., L.L.O 200 Regency One, 10050 Regency Circle Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3794 NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR21-377 Estate of JEFFREY T. GARVEY, Deceased.

Notice is hereby given that on March 9, 2021, in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, the Registrar issued a written statement of Informal Probate of the Will of said Decedent and that Shelia A. Garvey, whose address is 8811 Western Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska 68114, was informally appointed by the Registrar as Personal Representative of the Estate.

Creditors of this estate must file their claims with this Court, located at Courtroom No. 330, Third Floor, Probate Division, Douglas County Hall of Justice, 17th & Farnam Streets, Omaha, NE 68183, on or before May 19, 2021 or be forever barred.

CARROL L. MILLS Registrar First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION [RESTATED] Notice is hereby given that Divinely Loved, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office of the Company is 4723 N. 175th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68116.

The Registered Agent of the Company is Thomas E. Whitmore, 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The Company was Amended on February 4, 2021.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF VENTURE DISTRIBUYING, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Venture Distributing, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the company is 1219 N. 207th Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68022.

The registered agent of the company is Jody K. Frink and the registered address of the company is 1219 N. 207th Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68022.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF ELISA DAVIES LAW, LLC: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Elisa Davies Law, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 506 North Elmwood Road, Omaha, Nebraska, 68132. The registered agent and address of the limited liability company is Elisa Davies, 506 North Elmwood Road, Omaha, Nebraska, 68132.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

STEVEN G. RANUM, Attorney CROKER, HUCK LAW FIRM 2120 South 72nd Street, Suite 1200 Omaha, Nebraska 68124 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF SOLVENTUS, LLC The name of the limited liability company is Solventus, LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 3017 Saint Mary's Avenue #406, Omaha, NE 68046. The name and address of the initial agent for service of process is Steven G. Ranum, 2120 South 72nd Street, Suite 1200, Omaha, NE 68124.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

MATTHEW WURSTNER, Attorney CARLSON & BURNETT, LLP, Attorneys 17525 Arbor Street Omaha, Nebraska 68130 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF 4R4 ENTERPRISES, LLC Notice is hereby given that 4R4 ENTERPRISES, LLC is organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The initial designated office is 17525 Arbor Street, Omaha, NE 68130. The Company’s initial registered agent in the State of Nebraska is: Darren R. Carlson, whose address is 17525 Arbor Street, Omaha, NE 68130. The purpose of the Company is to engage in any lawful business and activity, as may be mutually agreed upon by the Members from time to time, and which are not prohibited by the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The Company commenced with filing its Certificate of Organization on March 12, 2021, and shall have a perpetual period of duration. The Company is a Manager Managed Limited Liability Company.

Matthew Wurstner, Organizer First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

20

• APRIL 2, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

Legal notices LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF ALPINE STABLES, LLC Notice is hereby given that ALPINE STABLES, LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska. The Company’s initial designated office is located at 10410 S. 144th Street, STE 2A, Omaha, NE 68138. The name and street mailing address of the initial agent for service of process is Justin Larsen, the initial registered office located at 10410 S. 144th Street, STE 2A, Omaha, NE 68138. The general nature of its business is to engage in and do any lawful act concerning any and all lawful business, other than banking or insurance, for which a limited liability company may be organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska. The Certificate of Organization was filed in the office of the Nebraska Secretary of State on March 16, 2021, the Company commenced business thereon, and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the Company are to be conducted by its members.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

BROWN & WOLFF, LLC 1925 North 120th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF FIGHTING BUNNIES YOUTH FOOTBALL PROGRAM, INC. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Fighting Bunnies Youth Football Program, Inc., a Nebraska nonprofit corporation, is incorporated under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The address of the registered office is 1925 North 120th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68154 and the registered agent of said corporation is Paul M. Brown. The corporation is a public benefit corporation, and the general nature of its business is any and all business which is lawful under the Nebraska Nonprofit Corporation Act. The corporation commenced its existence on March 12, 2021. The affairs of the corporation are be conducted by a Board of Directors, and by the officers which shall be a President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer and such other officers as shall be designated in the Bylaws.

INCORPORATOR: Paul M. Brown First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF JL RACING, LLC Notice is hereby given that JL RACING, LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska. The Company’s initial designated office is located at 10410 S. 144th Street, STE 2A, Omaha, NE 68138. The name and street mailing address of the initial agent for service of process is Justin Larsen, the initial registered office located at 10410 S. 144th Street, STE 2A, Omaha, NE 68138. The general nature of its business is to engage in and do any lawful act concerning any and all lawful business, other than banking or insurance, for which a limited liability company may be organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska. The Certificate of Organization was filed in the office of the Nebraska Secretary of State on March 16, 2021, the Company commenced business thereon, and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the Company are to be conducted by its members.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF ECH 365, LLC Notice is hereby given that ECH365, LLC has been organized as a limited liability company under Nebraska laws, with its designated office at 3477 Ruggles Street, Omaha, NE 68111. It is organized to transact any lawful business for which a Limited Liability Company may be organized under Nebraska laws and its duration is perpetual commencing from January 1, 2021. Its affairs are to be conducted by the manager is Christopher Shelly.

Its registered agent is Christopher Shelly and his office is located at 3477 Ruggles Street, Omaha, NE 68111.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF NAY’S KITCHEN, LLC Notice is hereby given that Nay’s Kitchen LLC has been organized as a limited liability company under Nebraska laws, with its designated office at 4103 Izard Street, Apt 1, Omaha, NE 68131. It is organized to transact any lawful business for which a Limited Liability Company may be organized under Nebraska laws and its duration is perpetual commencing from January 1, 2021. Its affairs are to be conducted by the manager is ReNay Kellogg.

Its registered agent is ReNay Kellogg and her office is located at 4103 Izard Street, Apt 1, Omaha, NE 68131.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF ROYALTY BOUTIQUE BY ERIKA LASHAY LLC Notice is hereby given that ROYALTY BOUTIQUE BY ERIKA LASHAY LLC has been organized as a limited liability company under Nebraska laws, with its designated office at 5536 N 61st Street Omaha, NE 68104. It is organized to transact any lawful business for which a Limited Liability Company may be organized under Nebraska laws and its duration is perpetual commencing from January 22, 2021. Its affairs are to be conducted by the manager is Erika King-Davis. Its registered agent is Erika King-Davis and her office is located at 5536 N 61st Street Omaha, NE 68104.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF CANNON CONCEAL & CARRY TRAINING LLC Notice is hereby given that Cannon Conceal & Carry Training LLC has been organized as a limited liability company under Nebraska laws, with its designated office at 6236 N 75th Street, Omaha, NE 68134. It is organized to transact any lawful business for which a Limited Liability Company may be organized under Nebraska laws and its duration is perpetual commencing from January 7, 2021. Its affairs are to be conducted by the manager is Joseph Cannon. Its registered agent is Joseph Cannon and his office is located at 6236 N 75th Street, Omaha, NE 68134.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

ABRAHAMS KASLOW & CASSMAN LLP, Attorneys 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION JLH, LLC has been organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office of the company is 5113 NW Radial Hwy, Omaha, Nebraska 68104. The name and street and mailing address of the initial registered agent of the company for service of process are M. Tyler Johnson, Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman LLP, 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF AMENDMENT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Articles of Organization of Wide Awake, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company (the “Company”), have been amended and restated as follows: The name of the Company is Wide Awake, LLC. The Designated Office of the Company is 24344 Leavenworth Circle, Waterloo, Nebraska 68069. The Registered Agent and Office of the Company is Bret C. Griess, 24344 Leavenworth Circle, Waterloo, Nebraska 68069. The Amended and Restated Certificate of Organization was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on March 15, 2021.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

ABRAHAMS KASLOW & CASSMAN LLP, Attorneys 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION MixedCompany LLC has been organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The street and mailing addresses of the initial designated office of the company are 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The name and street and mailing addresses of the initial registered agent of the company for service of process are Kathryn A. Glissman, Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman LLP, 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

ABRAHAMS KASLOW & CASSMAN LLP, Attorneys 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Hawkins HomeAway, LLC has been organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office of the company is 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The name and street and mailing address of the initial registered agent of the company for service of process are Robert M. Schartz, Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman LLP, 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that Maureen Dangelo, LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 14301 FNB PKWY, STE. 100, Omaha, NE 68154. The initial agent for service of process of the Company is Aimee L. Lowe at 14301 FNB PKWY, STE. 100, Omaha, NE 68154.

Aimee L. Lowe, Organizer First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that Elder Resource Strategies, LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 5623 Cedar St. Omaha, NE 68106. The initial agent for service of process of the Company is Aimee L. Lowe at 14301 FNB PKWY, STE 100, Omaha, NE 68154.

Aimee L. Lowe, Organizer First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

Diane Stewart-Ferro Attorney at Law 7207 Frontier Road La Vista, NE 68128 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF SABBY’S SERVICES, LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of Sabby’s Services, LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 1721 South 10th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68108 and the initial agent for service of process is Luke Sabaliauskas, whose address is 1721 South 10th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68108. Luke Sabaliauskas is the sole member and the affairs of the company will be conducted by the sole member. Perpetual existence commenced on the 25th day of January 2021.

Dated this 22nd day of March 2021.

Sabby’s Services, LLC By: Luke Sabaliauskas Manager and Sole Member First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

CATHERINE E. FRENCH, Attorney LAMSON, DUGAN and MURRAY, LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3743 NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF RENEE HOERSCHELMANN, LLC Notice is hereby given of the formation of a limited liability company under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the limited liability company is RENEE HOERSCHELMANN, LLC. The address of the company’s initial designated office is 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114. The name and address of the registered agent is LDM Business Services, Inc., 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114.

The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business.

The company commenced existence on February 4, 2021 and shall have perpetual duration. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by the manager as prescribed by the Operating Agreement.

LDM Business Services, Inc., Organizer First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF BROOKE WAGNER, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN on February 1, 2021, Brooke Wagner, LLC was organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act, with a designated office at 2022 Queen Drive, Papillion, NE 68046. The Company’s initial agent for service of process is Brooke Wagner, whose address is 2022 Queen Drive, Papillion, NE 68046.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF DLW INSURANCE, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN on March 16, 2021, DLW INSURANCE, LLC was organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act, with a designated office at 8969 North 79th Avenue, Omaha, NE 68122. The Company’s initial agent for service of process is Deborah Williams, whose address is 8969 North 79th Avenue, Omaha, NE 68122.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

BENJAMIN J. PICK, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF PATRICK PLACE PARTNERS, LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of Patrick Place Partners, LLC: 1. The name of the limited liability company is Patrick Place Partners, LLC; and 2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is Benjamin J. Pick, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADE NAME Trade Name to be registered is: Acreage Fences Name of Applicant: T627, Inc. Address:2514 South 119th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68144 Applicant is a Corporation If other than an Individual, state under whose laws entity was formed: Nebraska Date of first use of name in Nebraska: Upon filing General nature of business: retail and wholesale fencing contractor TROY TRUMM Signature of Applicant or Legal Representative April 2, 2021

Midlands Business Journal • APRIL 2, 2021 • Legal notices LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES KENDRA RINGENBERG, Attorney RINGENBERG & RATTNER LAW 14301 FNB Parkway, Suite 204 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF MANAWA CENTER CARWASH RE, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Manawa Center Carwash RE, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 222 S. 15th Street, Suite 1404S, Omaha, Nebraska 68102. The Registered Agent of the Company is Kendra Ringenberg, 14301 FNB Parkway, Suite 204, Omaha, Nebraska 68154.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

BENJAMIN J. PICK, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF CASCADE COMMERCIAL, LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of Cascade Commercial, LLC. 1. The name of the limited liability company is Cascade Commercial, LLC. 2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADE NAME Trade Name to be registered is: Phones Plus Name of Applicant: Chevalier, LLC Address:4802 S 235th Street, Elkhorn, NE 68022 Applicant is a Limited Liability Company If other than an Individual, state under whose laws entity was formed: Nebraska Date of first use of name in Nebraska: October 27, 1994 General nature of business: Cellular Phone Solutions WILLIAM T. FOLEY Signature of Applicant or Legal Representative April 2, 2021

MATTHEW T. PAYNE, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF RVG, LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of RVG, LLC. 1. The name of the limited liability company is RVG, LLC. 2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 18142 Wright Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68130, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is Joanne C. Gaines, DVM, 18142 Wright Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68130.

First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103 Omaha, Nebraska 68164 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF GUSTAFSON INVESTMENTS, LLC Notice is hereby given that a limited liability company has been formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the company is Gustafson Investments, LLC. The name and street address of the company’s initial agent for service of process is Law Offices of Barbara MedberyPrchal, P.C., L.L.O., 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103, Omaha, NE 68164.

The designated office is located at 15638 Polk Circle, Omaha, NE 68135.

Isaac Gustafson and Shelbi Gustafson, Members First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF EMPIRE CAPITAL REAL ESTATE, LLC The name of the Company is Empire Capital Real Estate, LLC. The Designated Office of the Company is: 6601 Rainwood Road, Omaha, Nebraska 68152. The Registered Agent and Office of the Company is: Tristan T. Warrick, 601 Rainwood Road, Omaha, Nebraska 68152. This limited liability company commenced business on March 18, 2021.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

WALENTINE O'TOOLE, LLP 11240 Davenport Street P.O. Box 540125 Omaha, Nebraska 68154-0125 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF CINGHIALE, LLC Cinghiale, LLC, with its initial designated office at 10304 Prairie Road, Omaha, Nebraska 68134, gives notice that it filed its Certificate of Organization with the Nebraska Secretary of State on March 23, 2021, and that it has been organized as a Nebraska limited liability company under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The initial agent for service of process is Jonathan M. Brown and his initial mailing address is 11240 Davenport Street, P.O. Box 540125, Omaha, Nebraska 68154. The company’s period of duration is perpetual, and the general nature of its business is to engage in any and all lawful business for which a limited liability company may be organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

Jamie M. Hurst, Organizer First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that The Three Musketeers, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The address of the Company’s designated office is 1910 S. 44th Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68105, and the name of the registered agent at such address is Tran & Associates Law, LLC. The general nature of the business is any legal and lawful activity allowed pursuant to the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act and the laws of the State of Nebraska and elsewhere.

The Company commenced business on 01/01/2021 and shall have perpetual existence unless dissolved in accordance with its Certificate of Organization, its Operating Agreement or the Limited Liability Company Act. Unless otherwise provided in the Company’s Operating Agreement, the affairs of the Company are to be managed by its managers.

Khanh NgocLuu Tran, Organizer/Member First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that V Connections Home Services, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The address of the Company’s designated office is 1910 S. 44th Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68105, and the name of the registered agent at such address is Tran & Associates Law, LLC. The general nature of the business is any legal and lawful activity allowed pursuant to the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act and the laws of the State of Nebraska and elsewhere.

The Company commenced business on 01/01/2021 and shall have perpetual existence unless dissolved in accordance with its Certificate of Organization, its Operating Agreement or the Limited Liability Company Act. Unless otherwise provided in the Company’s Operating Agreement, the affairs of the Company are to be managed by its managers.

Khanh NgocLuu Tran, Organizer/Member First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

MATTHEW WURSTNER, Attorney CARLSON & BURNETT, LLP, Attorneys 17525 Arbor Street Omaha, Nebraska 68130 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF HAMILTON DEEP WATER, LLC Notice is hereby given that HAMILTON DEEP WATER, LLC is organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The initial designated office is 17525 Arbor Street, Omaha, NE 68130. The Company’s initial registered agent in the State of Nebraska is: Darren R. Carlson, whose address is 17525 Arbor Street, Omaha, NE 68130. The purpose of the Company is to engage in any lawful business and activity, as may be mutually agreed upon by the Members from time to time, and which are not prohibited by the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The Company commenced with filing its Certificate of Organization on March 18, 2021 and shall have a perpetual period of duration. The Company is a Member Managed Limited Liability Company.

Darren R. Carlson, Organizer First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that DHT Rental, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The address of the Company’s designated office is 1910 S. 44th Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68105, and the name of the registered agent at such address is Tran & Associates Law, LLC. The general nature of the business is any legal and lawful activity allowed pursuant to the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act and the laws of the State of Nebraska and elsewhere. The Company commenced business on 01/01/2021 and shall have perpetual existence unless dissolved in accordance with its Certificate of Organization, its Operating Agreement or the Limited Liability Company Act. Unless otherwise provided in the Company’s Operating Agreement, the affairs of the Company are to be managed by its members.

Khanh NgocLuu Tran, Organizer/Member First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

21

APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADE NAME Trade Name to be registered is: Heartland Ag Systems Name of Applicant: HA Equipment, LLC Address: 2310 230th Street, Ames, IA 50014 Applicant is a Limited Liability Company If other than an Individual, state under whose laws entity was formed: Iowa Date of first use of name in Nebraska: March 1, 2021 General nature of business: Sale of commercial application units and parts.

GORDON GLADE Signature of Applicant or Legal Representative April 2, 2021

Julia K. Palzer Attorney at Law 10828 Old Mill Road, Suite 6 Omaha, Nebraska 68154-2647 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION 1. The name of the Company is SHRIKE SOLUTIONS, LLC. 2. The street address of the initial designated office is 18615 Oak Plaza, #510, Omaha, Nebraska, 68130. The registered agent is Matthew M. Shurtliff and the Registered Agent's address is 18615 Oak Plaza, #510, Omaha, Nebraska, 68130.

3. The general nature of the Company is safety, health and environmental regulation compliance and injury assessment consulting.

4. The Company commenced on March 23, 2021, and shall have perpetual existence.

5. The affairs of the Company are to be conducted by Members, the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and such other officers as the Members shall determine.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF EOTN, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN on March 17, 2021, EOTN, LLC was organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act, with a designated office at 7618 County Road P32, Fort Calhoun, NE 68023. The Company’s initial agent for service of process is Kiely Sindelar, whose address is 7620 County Road P32, Fort Calhoun, NE 68023.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF AMENDMENT OF GCP III VAN ZANDTS, LLC. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN the Articles of Incorporation of GCP III Van Zandts, LLC, a Nebraska corporation, has been amended to change the name of the company to GCP III Van Zandt, LLC. The Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation were filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on March 23, 2021.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

ERIN K. ARTZ, Attorney LAMSON, DUGAN and MURRAY, LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3743 NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF SASQUATCH UNLIMITED, LLC Notice is hereby given of the formation of a limited liability company under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the limited liability company is Sasquatch Unlimited, LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 10814 S. 231st Street, Gretna, Nebraska 68208. The name and address of the registered agent and office is LDM Business Services, Inc, 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The general nature of the business is any or all lawful business. The company commenced existence on March 23, 2021 and shall have a perpetual duration.

The affairs of the company shall be conducted by the Members, as prescribed by the Operating Agreement.

LDM Business Services, Inc., Organizer First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

KENDRA RINGENBERG, Attorney RINGENBERG & RATTNER LAW 14301 FNB Parkway, Suite 204 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF SLT VENTURES, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that SLT Ventures, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The Designated Office Address of the Company is 14301 FNB Parkway, Suite 204, Omaha, Nebraska 68154. The Registered Agent of the Company is Kendra J. Ringenberg, whose mailing address is 14301 FNB Parkway, Suite 204, Omaha, Nebraska 68154.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

22

• APRIL 2, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

Legal notices LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES SMITH SLUSKY POHREN & ROGERS LLP 8712 W DODGE RD, #400 OMAHA NE 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION LONG DOG FAT CAT V LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company, with its initial designated office at 16909 Burke Street, Bat 126, Omaha, Nebraska 68118, has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The registered agent is Shaun M. James, 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400, Omaha, NE 68114. The Limited Liability Company shall engage in any lawful business for which a limited liability company may be formed under the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act. The perpetual existence commenced October 13, 2020. Its affairs are to be conducted by its Members pursuant to an Operating Agreement duly adopted by the Company.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that Teresa Lenzen Psychotherapy, LLC, has been organized as a professional limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The designated office of the Company is 638 N 109th Plaza, Omaha, Nebraska 68154. The registered agent of the Company is Teresa Lenzen, 638 N 109th Plaza, Omaha, Nebraska 68154. The Company's members, managers, professional employees and agents are licensed or otherwise legally authorized to engage in the sale of real estate in this state. The Company was formed on January 8, 2021.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

BENJAMIN J. PICK, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF COPPERLEAF INVESTMENTS, LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of Copperleaf Investments, LLC: 1. The name of the limited liability company is Copperleaf Investments, LLC; and 2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is Benjamin J. Pick, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

LAW OFFICES OF EVELYN N. BABCOCK 16264 Rolling Ridge Road Omaha, Nebraska 68135 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that HBHC, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska on March 18, 2021. The street and mailing address for the initial designated office is 16264 Rolling Ridge Rd, Omaha, NE. The street and mailing address for the initial agent for service of process is 16264 Rolling Ridge Rd, Omaha, NE 68135. The name of the initial agent for service of process is George T. Babcock. The general nature of the business is any and all business which is lawful under the Uniform Limited Liability Act of the State of Nebraska. The business of limited liability company will be conducted by its Members.

George T. Babcock, Organizer First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF TOTAL RECOVERY SERVICES, INC., A NEBRASKA NONPROFIT CORPORATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned have formed a corporation under the Nebraska Nonprofit Corporation Act. The name of the corporation is TOTAL RECOVERY SERVICES, INC, A NEBRASKA NONPROFIT CORPORATION, with a registered office at 5206 South 166th Avenue Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68135, and the registered agent is LOREN DEXTER. The general nature of the business is a public benefit corporation and shall have for its additional purpose to provide counseling services; providing for managing any benevolent, charitable, civic, educational, fraternal, athletic, patriotic, social and labor organization or society, as well as the making of donations to the public welfare or for charitable or educational purposes, and to perform services of every kind and nature whatsoever, which are not inconsistent with law. The corporation became a corporate body on January 19, 2021, and upon its Articles being filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on March 2, 2021, and shall have perpetual existence. The corporation will have no members.

ANTHONY L. GROSS, Incorporator CATHERINE L. WHITE, Incorporator 3018 South 87th Street, Omaha, NE 68124 First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF PROVASOURCE, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that ProvaSource, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 1406 Veterans Drive, Suite 215, Omaha, Nebraska 68022. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 9500 W. Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF SHANNY’S PET CARE, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Shanny’s Pet Care, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The Designated Office Address of the Company is 2319 N. 51st Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68104. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 9500 W. Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

ADAMS & SULLIVAN, P.C., Attorneys at Law 1246 Golden Gate Drive, Suite 1 Papillion, Nebraska 68046-2843 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF MTT INVESTMENTS, LLC The name of the limited liability company is MTT Investments, LLC. The address of the designated office in Nebraska is: 5617 S. 161st Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68135. It is organized to transact any lawful business.

Perpetual existence commenced March 3, 2021. The affairs of the limited liability company are to be conducted by the manager, Thomas Shaw.

DATED this 18th day of March 2021.

Agent for Service:

Adams & Sullivan, P.C., L.L.O.

1246 Golden Gate Drive, Suite 1

Papillion, NE 68046 First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF LJM CUSTOM CARPENTRY, INC. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that LJM CUSTOM CARPENTRY, INC., is incorporated under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with a registered office at 14517 Grand Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska 68116. The registered agent is AARON MOSBY. The general nature of the business is to operate a general carpentry business, to own, operate and perform services of every kind and nature whatsoever, which are not inconsistent with law, which are necessary, suitable, proper, convenient or expedient to the operation of a general carpentry business. The authorized capital stock is $10,000.00, consisting of 10,000 shares of stock having a par value of $1.00 each, which stock shall be paid for wholly or partly by cash, by labor, by personal property and by real property. The corporation became a corporate body on February 4, 2021, and upon its Articles being filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on March 5, 2021, and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the corporation are to be conducted by a Board of Directors, the number of directors to be provided in the By-Laws, and the officers shall be a President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer, and such other officers as shall be designated in the By-Laws.

ANTHONY L. GROSS, Incorporator CATHERINE L. WHITE, Incorporator 3018 South 87th Street, Omaha, NE 68124 First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF DNP-FNP, INC. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that DNP-FNP, INC., is incorporated under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with a registered office at 3018 South 87th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The registered agent is ANTHONY L. GROSS. The general nature of the business is to operate a general counseling services business, to own, operate and perform services of every kind and nature whatsoever, which are not inconsistent with law, which are necessary, suitable, proper, convenient or expedient to the operation of a general counseling services business. The authorized capital stock is $10,000.00, consisting of 10,000 shares of stock having a par value of $1.00 each, which stock shall be paid for wholly or partly by cash, by labor, by personal property and by real property. The corporation became a corporate body on January 26, 2021, and upon its Articles being filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on February 24, 2021, and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the corporation are to be conducted by a Board of Directors, the number of directors to be provided in the ByLaws, and the officers shall be a President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer, and such other officers as shall be designated in the By-Laws.

ANTHONY L. GROSS, Incorporator CATHERINE L. WHITE, Incorporator 3018 South 87th Street, Omaha, NE 68124 First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF SANDZA WELLNESS, L.L.C. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that SANDZA WELLNESS, L.L.C., is organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with a designated and registered office at 3018 South 87th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68124.

The affairs of the company are to be conducted by manager and registered officer, SUZANNE F. PIOTROWSKI. The Limited Liability Company is organized to transact any and all business, and perform services of every kind and nature whatsoever, which are not inconsistent with law. The Limited Liability Company commenced doing business on January 18, 2021, and filed Certificate of Organization with the Nebraska Secretary of State on February 16, 2021, and shall have perpetual existence.

SUZANNE F. PIOTROWSKI, Organizational Member 3018 South 87th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68124 First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF TC HOME IMPROVEMENTS, INC. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that TC HOME IMPROVEMENTS, INC., is incorporated under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with a registered office at 3010 Pedersen Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68144. The registered agent is THOMAS COLLINS. The general nature of the business is to operate a general home improvement and construction business, to own, operate and perform services of every kind and nature whatsoever, which are not inconsistent with law, which are necessary, suitable, proper, convenient or expedient to the operation of a general home improvement and construction business. The authorized capital stock is $10,000.00, consisting of 10,000 shares of stock having a par value of $1.00 each, which stock shall be paid for wholly or partly by cash, by labor, by personal property and by real property. The corporation became a corporate body on January 6, 2021, and upon its Articles being filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on March 5, 2021, and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the corporation are to be conducted by a Board of Directors, the number of directors to be provided in the By-Laws, and the officers shall be a President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer, and such other officers as shall be designated in the By-Laws.

ANTHONY L. GROSS, Incorporator CATHERINE L. WHITE, Incorporator 3018 South 87th Street, Omaha, NE 68124 First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF MARY LOFTIS COUNSELING SERVICES, INC. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that MARY LOFTIS COUNSELING SERVICES, INC., is incorporated under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with a registered office at 4724 North 111th Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68164. The registered agent is MARY E. LOFTIS. The general nature of the business is to operate a general mental health counseling business, to own, operate and perform services of every kind and nature whatsoever, which are not inconsistent with law, which are necessary, suitable, proper, convenient or expedient to the operation of a general mental health counseling business.

The authorized capital stock is $10,000.00, consisting of 10,000 shares of stock having a par value of $1.00 each, which stock shall be paid for wholly or partly by cash, by labor, by personal property and by real property. The corporation became a corporate body on February 4, 2021, and upon its Articles being filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on March 5, 2021, and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the corporation are to be conducted by a Board of Directors, the number of directors to be provided in the By-Laws, and the officers shall be a President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer, and such other officers as shall be designated in the By-Laws.

ANTHONY L. GROSS, Incorporator CATHERINE L. WHITE, Incorporator 3018 South 87th Street, Omaha, NE 68124 First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

HUSCH BLACKWELL LLP, Attorneys 13330 California Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF JASPER STONE HOLDINGS II LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Jasper Stone Holdings II LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska on March 19, 2021 (the “Company”). The Company has designated its registered agent as Curt Hofer with registered office at 16820 Frances Street, Suite 206, Omaha, Nebraska 68130. The Company’s initial designated office is at 16820 Frances Street, Suite 206, Omaha, Nebraska 68130. The Company shall be governed by one or more managers. The general nature of business is any lawful purpose.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

Notice Of Organization Of Porta Potty Solutions, LLC Notice is hereby given that Porta Potty Solutions, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The designated office address of the Company is 5514 N 154th St, Omaha, NE 68116. The registered agent of the Company is Philip S. Murante, whose mailing address is 1101 S 119th St, Omaha, NE 68144.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

Midlands Business Journal • APRIL 2, 2021 • Legal notices LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES HUSCH BLACKWELL LLP, Attorneys 13330 California Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF JAMH FAMILY HOLDINGS LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that JAMH Family Holdings LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska on March 19, 2021 (the “Company”). The Company has designated its registered agent as Jeffrey Hofer with registered office at 16820 Frances Street, Suite 206, Omaha, Nebraska 68130. The Company’s initial designated office is at 16820 Frances Street, Suite 206, Omaha, Nebraska 68130. The Company shall be governed by one or more managers. The general nature of business is any lawful purpose.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

ERIN K. ARTZ, Attorney LAMSON, DUGAN and MURRAY, LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3743 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF DISTINCT WINDOW AND DOOR, INC. Notice is hereby given that a corporation has been formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the corporation is Distinct Window and Door, Inc. The corporation is authorized to issue 1,000 shares of common stock. The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business. The company commenced existence on March 2021 and shall have perpetual duration. The name and street address of the corporation's initial registered agent and office is LDM Business Services, Inc., 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

The name and address of the incorporator is LDM Business Services, Inc., 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114.

LDM Business Services, Inc., Incorporator First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF THE HEADSTRAT LLC The name of the Company is The HeadStrat LLC. The Designated Office of the Company is: 1008 Dodge Street, #302, Omaha, Nebraska 68102. The Registered Agent and Office of the Company is: Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O., 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124.

This limited liability company commenced business on March 22, 2021.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

KATHRYN J. DERR PC LLO 1301 South 75th Street, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68124 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF FUR REAL CUSTOM GOODS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that FUR REAL CUSTOM GOODS, LLC has been organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The address of the initial designated office of the company is 5616 South 139th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68137. The registered office of the Company is 5616 South 139th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68137, and the agent at such office is Katie Ann Pillen. The general nature of the business to be transacted by the company is any lawful business which may be carried on by a limited liability company organized under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The company commenced operations on March 9, 2021, and shall have a perpetual duration.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Braided Stream Recreation, LLC a Nebraska limited liability company, filed its Statement of Dissolution with the Nebraska Secretary of State on March 22, 2021, and the company is in the process of voluntary dissolution. The terms and conditions of such dissolution are, in general, that all debts and obligations of the company are to be fully paid and satisfied or adequate provision is to be made therefore, and that the balance of any remaining assets are to be distributed to its Members. Steven M. Stangl, Manager, will wind up and liquidate the company’s business and affairs. If you have a claim against Braided Stream Recreation, please provide the following information with respect to your claim: 1) your name or the name of your entity; 2) the nature of your claim; 3) the amount of your claim; and 4) the date your claim arose. All claims shall be mailed to DDLG Business Services, Inc., 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. A claim against Braided Stream Recreation, LLC is barred unless an action to enforce the claim is commenced within five (5) years after the publication date of the third required notice.

First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103 Omaha, Nebraska 68164 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF KARI WITT, LLC Notice is hereby given that a professional limited liability company has been formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the company is KARI WITT, LLC. The company, its members, managers and professional employees are authorized to render the following professional service: Sale of Real Estate. The name and street address of the company’s initial registered agent is Law Offices of Barbara Medbery-Prchal, P.C., L.L.O., 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103, Omaha, NE 68164. The designated office is located at 16008 S. 63rd Street, Papillion, NE 68133.

Kari Witt, Member First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

ERICKSON l SEDERSTROM, P.C. 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION Corporate Name: Friends of Roatan, Inc. Type of Corporation: Public Benefit Registered Agent: Erickson & Sederstrom, P.C., a limited liability organization Registered Office: 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 Members: Corporation will not have Members Incorporator: Daniel I. Dittman 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

BENJAMIN J. PICK, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF TRAIL RIDGE HOMES, LLC, LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of Trail Ridge Homes, LLC. 1. The name of the limited liability company is Trail Ridge Homes, LLC. 2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 8717 Pinkney St. Omaha, NE 68134.

3. The name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is Benjamin J. Pick, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF BOUNCING OFF THE WALLS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Bouncing off the Walls, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska on March 22, 2021 (the “Company”). The Company has designated its registered agent as Joshua Wall, with registered office at 18232 Dewey Ave. Elkhorn, NE 68022. The Company’s initial designated office is at 18232 Dewey Ave. Elkhorn, NE 68022. The Company shall be governed by one or more managers. The general nature of the business is any lawful purpose.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

23

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that AVK Properties, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The address of the Company’s designated office is 1910 S 44th Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68105, and the name of the registered agent at such address is Tran & Associates Law, LLC. The general nature of the business is any legal and lawful activity allowed pursuant to the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act and the laws of the State of Nebraska and elsewhere. The Company commenced business on 01/01/2021 and shall have perpetual existence unless dissolved in accordance with its Certificate of Organization, its Operating Agreement or the Limited Liability Company Act. Unless otherwise provided in the Company’s Operating Agreement, the affairs of the Company are to be managed by its managers.

Khanh NgocLuu Tran, Organizer/Member First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION Cunningham Emergency Care, PC was formed on March 24, 2021 for the purpose of conducting the practice of medicine and medical consulting.

The Registered Office is located at 10914 Prairie Village Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68144, and the name of the Registered Agent at said address is Brian H. Cunningham. The professional corporation has authorized and issued 100 shares of common stock at a value of $1.00 per share. The affairs of this professional corporation, which shall exist in perpetuity, shall be conducted by a Board of Directors and such Officers as it shall appoint.

The name and address of the incorporator is Brian H. Cunningham, 10914 Prairie Village Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68144.

Brian H. Cunningham, MD, Incorporator First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION OF WARREN WILKIE INVESTMENTS, LTD Notice is hereby given that Warren Wilkie Investments, Ltd, a Nebraska limited partnership, has filed its Certificate of Cancellation with the Nebraska Secretary of State; the affairs for the partnership dissolution are to be managed and its assets are to be distributed by its general partner, Julie A. Stephens; all of the assets and liabilities of the limited partnership shall be paid and distributed among its creditors and partners according to their respective rights and interests. The limited partnership had no assets or liabilities as of December 31, 2020.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF CLARDEVCO DEVELOPER, LLC The name of the Company is Clardevco Developer, LLC. The Designated Office of the Company is 3814 Farnam Street, Suite 201, Omaha, Nebraska 68131. The Registered Agent and Office of the Company is Thomas H. McLeay, 3814 Farnam Street, Suite 201, Omaha, Nebraska 68131. This limited liability company commenced business on March 25, 2021.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103 Omaha, Nebraska 68164 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF PRIMO’S 2, LLC Notice is hereby given that a limited liability company has been formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the company is Primo’s 2, LLC The name and street address of the company’s initial agent for service of process is Barbara Taylor, 2221 S. 60th Street, Omaha, NE 68106. The designated office is located at 5914 Center Street, Omaha, NE 68106.

Travis Taylor, Member First publication March 19, 2021, final April 2, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF CLARDEVCO FUND 3, LLC The name of the Company is Clardevco Fund 3, LLC. The Designated Office of the Company is 3814 Farnam Street, Suite 201, Omaha, Nebraska 68131. The Registered Agent and Office of the Company is Thomas H. McLeay, 3814 Farnam Street, Suite 201, Omaha, Nebraska 68131. This limited liability company commenced business on March 25, 2021.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION Vapes & Tobacco 3, Inc., whose Registered Agent is Dennis Guinn, and whose Registered Office is located at 9341 Davenport Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68114, was formed on March 24, 2021 to engage in any lawful business in the State of Nebraska. The corporation has authorized and issued 10,000 shares of common stock at a value of $1.00 per share. The name and address of the incorporator is Thomas E. Whitmore, 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

Thomas E. Whitmore, Incorporator First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADE NAME Trade Name to be registered is: Circo Gardens Name of Applicant: Skyline Woods Revitalization II, LLC Address: 4611 South 96th Street Omaha NE 68127 Applicant is a Limited Liability Company If other than an Individual, state under whose laws entity was formed: NE Date of first use of name in Nebraska: 02/25/2021 General nature of business: any and all lawful business including but not limited to: garden, greenhouse, and general landscaping related acitivities.

TIFFANY THOMPSON Signature of Applicant or Legal Representative April 2, 2021

24

• APRIL 2, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

Legal notices LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LIKES MEYERSON HATCH LLC 444 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF TMR HOLDINGS, LLC Notice is hereby given that TMR Holdings, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company (the “Company”), has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The street and mailing address of the Company’s initial designated office is 444 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The street and mailing address of the Company’s initial agent for service of process is 444 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114, and the Company’s initial agent for service of process at such address is Robert J. Likes.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O. 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103 Omaha, Nebraska 68164 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF JULIAN YOUNG AND COMPANY, LLC Notice is hereby given that a limited liability company has been formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the company is JULIAN YOUNG AND COMPANY, LLC. The name and street address of the company’s initial registered agent is Brittany Young, 10606 Monroe Street, Omaha, NE 68127. The designated office is located at 2922 Ames Avenue, Omaha, NE 68111.

Brittany Young, Organizer First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

SCOTT A. MEYERSON, Esq. LIKES MEYERSON HATCH LLC 444 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION OF ERMANCO LLC ErmanCo LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company (the “Company”), filed its STATEMENT OF DISSOLUTION with the Nebraska Secretary of State on March 24, 2021. Persons with claims against the Company must present such claim to: ErmanCo LLC, c/o Steve Bloch, 444 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. Claims against the Company must include the following information: (i) claimant’s name, address and telephone number during business hours; (ii) any facts, which may support the claim, and (iii) any amounts allegedly owed by the Company under the claim. Claims not including this information will not be reviewed.

Any claims against this Company will be barred unless a proceeding to enforce such claims is commenced within five (5) years after the date this Notice is last published.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that Dunwoody Automation, L.L.C. (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The designated office of the Company is 12142 Iva Street, Gretna, Nebraska 68028. The registered agent of the Company is Craig Dunwoody, 12142 Iva Street, Gretna, Nebraska 68028. The Company was formed on March 23, 2021.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF GUNNELS & BURTIN, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Gunnels & Burtin, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The Designated Office Address of the Company is 3410 N. 73rd St., Lincoln1299 Farnam Street, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68102. The Registered Agent of the Company is Angela Schmit, 1246 Golden Gate Dr., Ste. 3, Papillion, Nebraska 68046.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF MJSJ1, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that MJSJ1, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 7903 Heritage Circle, Ralston, Nebraska 68127. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

BENJAMIN J. PICK, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF AMENDMENT TO THE CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION OF 3 BOUCHONS, LLC Notice is hereby given that pursuant to the applicable provisions of the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act, the Certificate of Organization of 3 BOUCHONS, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company (the “Company”), has been amended to change the name of the Company to Barrels & Bouchons, LLC. The Amended Certificate of Organization was filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Nebraska on March 25, 2021.

In all other respects, the Certificate of Organization remains unchanged.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

JAMES D. BUSER, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF PIONEER VIEW HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION 1. The name of the Corporation is Pioneer View Homeowners Association.

2. The Corporation is a mutual benefit corporation.

3. The address of the registered office is 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114, and the name of the registered agent at that office is James D. Buser.

4. The name and street address of each incorporator are as follows: Mr. Michael F. Rogers Rogers Construction, Inc. 8934 “H” Street Omaha, Nebraska 68127 Ms. Betsy Nowatzke Rogers Construction, Inc. 8934 “H” Street Omaha, Nebraska 68127 5. The Corporation will have members.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that DR BUSINESS MANAGER, LLC has been organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The initial designated office’s street address is 8601 Executive Woods Dr Apt 153 Lincoln, NE 68512. The initial designated office’s mailing address is 8601 Executive Woods Dr Apt 153 Lincoln, NE 68512. The Registered Agent is Delia M Gomez Carcamo. The street address of the Registered Agent is 8601 Executive Woods Dr Apt 153 Lincoln, NE 68512 and the mailing address is 8601 Executive Woods Dr Apt 153 Lincoln, NE 68512. The main purpose of the business will be to engage in but not limited to business support such as consultant services, cleaning services, private courier and transportation services, and various business equipment rentals.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that Rainfall Home Rental, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The address of the Company’s designated office is 1910 S 44th Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68105, and the name of the registered agent at such address is Tran & Associates Law, LLC. The general nature of the business is any legal and lawful activity allowed pursuant to the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act and the laws of the State of Nebraska and elsewhere.

The Company commenced business on 01/01/2021 and shall have perpetual existence unless dissolved in accordance with its Certificate of Organization, its Operating Agreement or the Limited Liability Company Act. Unless otherwise provided in the Company’s Operating Agreement, the affairs of the Company are to be managed by its managers.

Khanh NgocLuu Tran, Organizer/Member First publication March 26, 2021, final April 9, 2021

Thomas H. Penke, Attorney for Applicant 12020 Shamrock Plaza, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR21-450 ESTATE OF WILLIAM DOYLE GRESHAM, Deceased.

Notice is hereby given that on 24th day of March, 2021, in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, the Registrar issued a written statement of Informal Probate of the Will of said Decedent, and that Jane A. Jensen, 5015 South 149th Court, Omaha, Nebraska 68137, has been appointed Personal Representative of this estate..

Creditors of this estate must file their claims with this Court, located at Courtroom No. 330, Third Floor, Probate Division, Douglas County Hall of Justice, 17th & Farnam Streets, Omaha, NE 68183, on or before June 1, 2021 or be forever barred.

CARROL L. MILLS Registrar First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION TO: NATALIA BELL You are hereby notified that on 12/08/20, the Plaintiff, Credit Management Services, Inc., filed a Complaint in the COUNTY Court of DOUGLAS County, Nebraska against you shown as Case Number CI20 21765. The object and prayer of which is a judgment in the amount of $500.00, plus court costs and prejudgment interest and attorney fees, if applicable.

The Complaint prays that judgment be entered against you. You are hereby notified that you must answer the petition on or before 05/16/21 at the COUNTY Court of DOUGLAS County, OMAHA, Nebraska.

BY: Steven J Morrison, #24708 P.O. Box 1512 Grand Island, Nebraska 68802 308 398-3801 Attorney for the Plaintiff First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION of a Limited Liability Company Notice is hereby given the registration with the Nebraska Secretary of state’s office of MEC Construction, LLC under the laws of the State of Nebraska as follows: The name of the company is MEC Construction, LLC. Registered agent and office of MEC Construction, LLC is Miguel Esteban Cruz at MEC Construction, LLC. The designated address is 2110 Castelar Street, Omaha, NE 68108. Initial members: Miguel Esteban Cruz. General nature of the business is to transact any and all lawful business for which limited liability companies are allowed by statute. The LLC was organized in March 2021 for the perpetual duration and is managed by its members.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF BIG CRAZY BUFFALO, LLC The name of the Company is Big Crazy Buffalo, LLC. The Designated Office of the Company is 1519 South 219th Street, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022.

The Registered Agent and Office of the Company is: Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O., 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. This limited liability company commenced business on March 26, 2021.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF GREENHEAD PROPERTIES, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Greenhead Properties, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The Designated Office Address of the Company is 9406 Grand Ave., Omaha, Nebraska 68134. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

Darren R Carlson, Attorney CARLSON & BURNETT, LLP, 17525 Arbor Street Omaha, Nebraska 68130 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF VASILIOS FINE FOODS, LLC Notice is hereby given that VASILIOS FINE FOODS, LLC is organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The initial designated office is 17525 Arbor Street, Omaha, NE 68130. The Company’s initial registered agent in the State of Nebraska is Darren R Carlson, whose address is Carlson & Burnett, LLP, 17525 Arbor Street, Omaha, NE 68130. The purpose of the Company is to engage in any lawful business and activity, as may be mutually agreed upon by the Members from time to time, and which are not prohibited by the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The Company commenced with filing its Certificate of Organization on March 29, 2021, and shall have a perpetual period of duration. The Company is a Member Managed Limited Liability Company.

Darren R Carlson, Organizer First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

David J. Skalka, Attorney CROCKER HUCK LAW FIRM 2120 South 72nd Street, Suite 1200 Omaha, Nebraska 68124 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF KPI LLC The name of the limited liability company is KPI LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 7166 North 52nd Street, Omaha, NE 68152. The name and address of the initial agent for service of process is Kris Paronto, 7166 North 52nd Street, Omaha, NE 68152.

First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

Midlands Business Journal • APRIL 2, 2021 • Legal notices LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES DENNIS P. LEE, Attorney for the Personal Representatives LEE LAW OFFICE 2433 South 130th Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68145 LEGAL NOTICE In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR21-61 Estate of BONNIE L. BROWN, Decedent Notice is hereby given that on the 12th day of February, 2021, in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, the Registrar issued a written statement of Informal Intestacy of the Estate of Bonnie L. Brown and that the following surviving children were appointed as the Co-Personal Representatives of this estate.

Carolyn K. Bonge, 6640 Hamilton Street, Omaha, NE 68132 Steven S. Brown, 708 Saint Johns Drive, Mansfield, TX 76063 Creditors of this estate must file their claims with this Court, located at Courtroom No. 330, Third Floor, Probate Division, Douglas County Hall of Justice, 17th & Farnam Streets, Omaha, NE 68183, on or before June 1, 2021 or be forever barred.

CARROL L. MILLS Registrar First publication April 2, 2021, final April 16, 2021

Attention Law Firms

25

Restaurants fighting to rebound are encountering a new challenge Continued from page 16. the same issues.

Pettersen said he needs about four more workers to help make serving easier under COVID-19 safety protocols.

Egert said he has been left wondering if new hires will show up for the job. He recently tried hiring 25 people, but only eight of them showed up to work.

Finding workers who are qualified for fine dining has been especially difficult. Many applicants are coming from other industries with little experience working in restaurants, owners said.

“It’s always a challenge getting quality staff but it’s nearly impossible now,” said Gutin of Cuba Libre. “I’ve never seen anything like this in my 45 years in the industry.”

Pettersen said he has a group of seasonal workers from the northeast that he has called on for years to come down to South Florida as winter hits. When he called on them last October, they didn’t come down.

“The people that we relied on, I think they changed career paths,” Pettersen said. “And I think they did it because of the uncertainty of the pandemic. Thirty percent of all restaurants permanently closed in one year. That’s not really a lot of certainty to a line cook or a server.”

It’s not just restaurants who are struggling to hire staff. Hotels across South Florida are facing the same challenge.

Data and theories are still emerging to explain the trend, but restaurant owners and industry experts believe it is a combination of three things: fear of returning to work during a pandemic, former workers leaving the restaurant industry, and the ongoing availability of unemployment benefits.

“We think we have lost about 20 percent for the hospitality reason and temporarily we have lost 50 percent of those workers due to unemployment, the stimulus, taking care of children or have gone into another business,” Dr. Ricci said.

Jeremy Nichols, a recruiter in the hospitality industry, said many workers felt cast aside when shutdowns forced restaurants to furlough their staffs. Now, they are reluctant to return to a sector they feel let them down.

“A lot of the talent was forced out of the industry. You can’t blame the industry, but some of them still feel upset,” Jeremy said. “They’ve had twelve months to figure out ways to survive without that job.”

Wendi Walsh with the labor union UNITE HERE Local 355 also said many workers either transitioned to new jobs or still felt concerned about working in crowded restaurants with the pandemic still going on.

“This is something that we anticipated early on in the pandemic,” Walsh said. “In some cases, there are workers who want to return but are still quite concerned about health and safety with the workplace.”

Cuba Libre’s locations were forced to completely shut down during the pandemic. When they were able to re-open, many of their former employees couldn’t make it back.

“We attempted to recall our previous employees, but they told us they had child care or health care issues or even the stimulus and unemployment,” Gutin explained.

Other restaurant owners believe they are not able to compete with the unemployment benefits former workers are receiving — an issue other industries are facing, as well. On average, Floridians receive about $575 a week on unemployment, which can be more than the average pay for a hospitality job, said Nicole Anderson, chief executive of Mend HR Solutions.

“People of all ages are scared even with hope on the horizon with the vaccines,” Anderson said. “Also, we are getting a huge influx of people from other states who apply for jobs here in Florida that are expecting pay to be at what they were paid in other states.”

The combination of these issues is causing instability for restaurants. Those that want to survive will have to be flexible for the time being, Nichols said.

“This is a great time to be in the industry because with the lack of available talent, there is an opportunity for those who have made it to the finish line,” he said. ©2021 South Florida Sun Sentinel.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

What is a vaccine passport and will you need one to travel?

by Lauren Zumbach

Email your legal notices to legals@mbj.com You will receive a confirmation email stating when it will begin publication.

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When travelers venture back out, many — especially those flying overseas — will need to manage new requirements to prove they’ve tested negative for COVID-19 or received a vaccine.

Travel industry trade groups, airlines and other organizations are developing so-called vaccine passports to Travel make it easier to navigate changing rules. Most are in early stages or only used in certain destinations, though their creators say they are working to expand use. What’s less clear is whether any will emerge as a standard accepted broadly worldwide.

In the mean time, here’s what you need to know.

What is a vaccine passport?

A vaccine passport is a record of a traveler’s COVID-19-related health data, including whether they have been vaccinated or tested negative for the virus that causes it.

Some countries required visitors show proof of certain vaccinations, such as yellow fever, before COVID-19, but the digital systems being developed would be more efficient than the current paper-based system, said Perry Flint, a spokesman for the International Air Transport Association, a trade group for airlines.

The airline group said the app it’s developing is focused on COVID-19 requirements, but it has the potential to cover additional vaccines.

The apps also provide information to help travelers navigate COVID-19 travel restrictions, including the type of test required at their destination.

Who’s making them?

The airline trade group is developing an app called Travel Pass meant to be used by any airline. Another, CommonPass, is a project from Swiss NGO the World Economic Forum and The Commons Project Foundation, a nonprofit that develops technology for public use.

Clear, a service that lets members use biometrics to verify their identity at airport security and started operating at O’Hare International Airport in 2019, has a Health Pass app. Some airlines have their own versions.

How does it work?

That depends on the app. In addition to sharing information on travel requirements and testing sites, some ask users to upload their health records.

Others, including CommonPass, let users connect to lab results and vaccination records through the app, which The Commons Project Foundation CEO Paul Meyer said helps prevent tampering. Users get a QR code they can show the airline before boarding or at customs, if their destination accepts the app as proof they meet the requirements to enter.

Clear uses CommonPass’s technology to link to users’ health records. On certain United Airlines and Delta Air Lines flights from Los Angeles to Hawaii, Clear Health Pass users who meet Hawaii’s negative test requirements get a wristband at the gate that allows faster processing on arrival. There is a fee to use Clear at airport security, but Health Pass is free.

Do I need one to travel?

No. The World Health Organization said last month it does not support making vaccination mandatory for international travel because it’s not yet clear how effective vaccines are at preventing transmission of the virus that causes COVID-19, and because access to vaccines is limited.

Then there’s the question of whether digital vaccination certificates will be widely accepted.

The WHO is working to create a framework for a digital vaccination certificate — something that would help ensure any individual app is widely accepted as proof a traveler meets health requirements, Flint said.

Digital rights nonprofit the Electronic Frontier Foundation has raised concerns about equity, since worldwide access to the vaccine remains limited.

“It’s creating a society of haves and have nots, who can come in and who can’t,” said Alexis Hancock, EFF’s director of engineering.

Where can they be used?

Most vaccine passports are still being developed or only in use at certain destinations.

In addition to flights between Los Angeles and Hawaii using Clear, CommonPass is being used on JetBlue flights from Continued on page 30.

26

• APRIL 2, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

Investors in startups, new companies look to regain momentum

by Dwain Hebda

After a rocky first half of 2020, which saw much of the investment in startups and new businesses dry up, the market rebounded and is looking for a return to form in the new year.

“COVID caused the private equity and debt markets to essentially shut down from midMarch through May,” said David McLeese, managing partner of First Capital Partners.

“Then, deal activity came back strong starting in June and through the rest of 2020.

“From March to May, companies had a tougher time accessing capital because business owners and investors were still trying to assess what impact COVID may have on the economy. Starting in June, companies began to have more visibility and investor interest returned as a result. So, while there was a short freezing of deal markets, we believe this subsided quickly and capital remains available for good businesses.”

McLeese said his company stayed the course last year and is optimistic about investment opportunities in 2021.

“Our focus has not changed since we started our firm 15 years ago, which is to invest in privately-owned businesses with at least $10 million in annual revenues and $2 million in annual operating profits,” he said. “We invest in a range of businesses, but tend to focus on family-owned companies in the manufacturing, business services and value-added distribution sectors. We continue to be interested in partnering with Nebraska-based businesses to help them solve the capital needs they may have.”

Stephanie Luebbe, executive director of Nebraska Angels, said there was a lot to feel good about coming out of the unprecedented

conditions of 2020.

“Startup activity continues to grow and strengthen in Nebraska,” she said. “Acquisitions are happening, structured programs are providing support and access to capital increased with Nebraska Angels deploying $3 million in 2020 on the heels of a record year of $6.5 million deployed in 2019. Most importantly, entrepreneurs continue to start companies.”

Luebbe added that McLeese this continued pace of entrepreneurism covers a spectrum of businesses and she echoed the optimism for continued deal flow in the new year.

“Our organization is fairly industry agnostic with investors looking to fund companies

and founding teams that have large potential to scale. Innovation in tech and life sciences has wide appeal, with limited interest for retail and consumer goods businesses,” she said. “I'm extremely confident and inspired by where the Nebraska startup ecosystem is headed. It takes a village to make a difference and we're lucky to have so many passionate supporters for driving continuous improvement.”

Such is not to say there aren’t still inLuebbe stitutional challenges facing the startup community when it comes to attracting investment.

“The biggest challenge facing Nebraska from a funding perspective boils down to deal flow,” said Justin Krug, a member of the Mav-

erick Venture Fund at University of Nebraska at Omaha. “According to Mug.News, the only Nebraska-based startups that received funding in 2021 include Omaha-based Swishboom and DriverDoc. Compare that to states such as Illinois or Ohio, which accounted for 12 fundings between February 21-27 alone.

“Another problem plaguing Nebraska from the funding side is the average deal size, which is significantly smaller than other cities throughout the Midwest.”

Krug said increasing media attention could help the state’s startup ecosystem by drawing attention to the activity that is occurring as well as gaps in resources.

“We need to get more people to care about what’s happening in Nebraska from a local and regional level,” he said. “Not only do we need to better identify the entrepreneurs in the state, but we also need to make it a priority to ask them how we can better help them be successful.”

Sunnyside on Center serves up fun, fresh, ‘basic’ breakfast fare Continued from page 1. customers safe.

“We opened up with takeout and curbside and it’s been [going] really, really well.”

Liebig said. “The community around here has been really supportive. We’ve had people coming from West O and Fremont, and somehow we’re kind of taking off.”

A sales background might not be the typical background for a restaurateur, but Liebig’s culinary travels (in conjunction with traveling for his sales job) and love of In-NOut Burger influenced his passion for simple

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offerings that are accessible to everyone. In I want to be ‘in the community,’” Liebig fact, he initially had plans for a burger joint, said of hiring Crane. “I want to support my but his business partner convinced him to neighbors, the people here as much as we consider serving breakfast in a neighborhood can, any artists/people that can help and just that was lacking in breakfast options, espebe community driven as well.” cially after 11-Worth Café closed.

New and existing businesses are once “I think fine dining has a great place but again drawing in more customers to the it’s not something that area. Vis Major BrewI feel is accessible for Sunnyside on Center ing Co., Abelardo’s everybody all the time Phone: 531-444-5135 Mexican Restaurant, and for me, it’s like, I Address: 3528 Center St., Omaha 68105 and Will Style Bridal love strip mall restau- Founded: open to the public February 2021 Boutique have been rants, hole-in-the-wall Industry trends: Restaurants have by and joined by Sunnyside, places that really fo- large adapted to the pandemic by offering Carter & Rye bakcus on just putting out curbside and to-go options, learning along ery and Sheelytown good, simple plates,” the way what foods fare better after being Market houseplant he said. “I think about transported. and nursery. He said a lot of the meals I’ve Website: www.sunnysideomaha.com there’s talk of people had, both very expenand businesses wantsive and very cheap and a lot of times the ing Center Street narrowed down to two lanes cheaper ones stand out to me because they instead of four to slow traffic, but that’s a were just so much more flavorful.” “wish list” right now.

Liebig has been cooking at home since In addition to Sunnyside’s supportive he was about 11 years old. neighbors, Liebig views the nearby Hanscom “I grew up in a small town that didn’t Park as a benefit that provides an outdoor have a lot of great restaurants,” he said. “Then seating option. when I moved here it opened my eyes …

“If we’re full inside and people want, we and traveling has opened them more. And I can give [their order] to go — the park is right just like the idea of food being delicious and there,” he said. “There’s a great gazebo to sit affordable and accessible to people. I think in, picnic tables. It kind of allows you to have everybody should have access to really good breakfast in a park.” food — if they’re dining in or at home.”

And, as people wait for their food, they Liebig brought on seasoned cook Eric can go check out Sheelytown Market, he said.

Shew to help open the restaurant and develThe future might bring more locations, op its fast casual menu, which consists of but for now, Liebig is focused on the menu “quick, good and basic” breakfast items that and customers’ experiences and making sure travel well, like “Your Basic B.S.” breakfast that the restaurant is “running like a wellsandwiches, breakfast burritos, biscuits oiled machine.” and scratch-made gravy with house-made “As we grow, we want to expand and sausage, hash brown patties with house seaoffer more lunch options,” he said. “We’re soning, stroopwafels, shakshuka, and weekly just going to grow naturally, just go with it. specials like the TikTok quesadilla, corned Hopefully people are patient with us. I’m beef burrito or garlic bread grilled cheese. really big on focusing on trying to get the The restaurant gets its Sunnyside blend food good. And with a sales background, coffee from Archetype Coffee and partners I’m big on customer service — it’s just being with other businesses for offerings like Hardy friendly and having good food and I think that Coffee Co.’s cinnamon rolls and indoor plants takes you a long way. I think we don’t need from neighbor Sheelytown Market. a massive menu; it doesn’t need to be really Local artist and neighborhood resident fancy — that’s sort of where I come from. I Dan Crane created the logo, a reference to just love basic, really good food and a good sunnyside eggs and the restaurant’s name, atmosphere and friendly people. Those are which features alliteration and a destination kind of the things I think about as I’ve travpoint. eled and gone places and those are the things “If we’re going to be in this community I go back to.”

Midlands Business Journal • APRIL 2, 2021 •

27

Online stores, virtual challenges among winning combinations for Fleet Feet Continued from page 1. on virtual challenges; for instance, “Fleet recalled. “Honestly, it was people that understand the power of being social. Peo- Feet to Fleet Feet” supported charities, in- didn’t have the time before. Life was busy. ple need to be with other people.” cluding Team Jack. In all, donations raised Running takes a back seat.”

She has also noticed more families who It was the desire to build that sense through both run sign-up and social fundof community withraising with Team want to do running events together.

“I pray that will be something that conin a local running Jack totaled almost Fleet Feet Sports Lincoln products retailer that $36,500, according tinues, to see kids working out and to see inspired Borer to em- and Omaha to Borer. Participants running as a family activity,” Borer added. bark on what would Phone: 402-904-4648 (Lincoln); 402hailed from around “I think it’s a big movement and a big shift.”

Unique to the Fleet Feet “family,” eventually become 884-8800 (Omaha) 17 states.

Fleet Feet Stores at Address: 7701 Pioneers Blvd., Lincoln B o r e r, f o r h e r Borer’s stores remained open throughout 7701 Pioneers Blvd. 68506; 11760 Wright St., Omaha 68130 part, has a long his- the pandemic.

“The Midwest was quite different from and 11760 Wright Services: locally-owned and -operated tory of hosting sevSt. in Lincoln and store within network of specialty running, eral charity races; the rest of the country,” she said. “Most Omaha, respectively. walking and fitness stores over the course of stores were closed for some time. Only five “I always had a Website: www.fleetfeet.com 15 years, those rac- Fleet Feets in the U.S. remained open and passion for people es have raised more I owned two of them.”

She noted how, as mandates lifted for and for running,” Borer said. “There are than $100,000. great running stores in Lincoln and Oma“I knew I loved the reward of it and other states and municipalities, they fieldha, but I wanted more community — and knew that was going to be a piece of my ed questions from other owners related to things like, “How is curbside pickup goto reach out to different types of people.” store,” she said.

It took a few years of convincing for In these not-so-precedented times, such ing?” and “What do your cleaning measures Borer and her husband, who owns another races also provide an outlet for people — look like?”

“Things were really slow, but I still had business, to get off of the blocks. rather than being home all the time.

“The biggest hurdle for me was the “Through the summer, we did get busy customers coming in,” she said.

Generally, Borer’s stores had been business side of it,” she said. “But I knew and we did see some new customers,” she I had my husband and our circle of friends to help. With any small business, you need to be passionate; work really, really hard; and learn to pivot quickly. And you have to be forward-thinking; I have always been Continued from page 1. tion monitoring was used during construcnew positions as Thiele Geotech has di- tion to measure any impact pile driving and that person.”

These characteristics and network versified its service menu to become one concrete breakup equipment would have on served her well; in the beginning, she of the area’s two largest such providers in a nearby house. teamed up with leadership with Kan- market share.

A current project involves making a “We first dabbled in monitoring in- road on 180th Street north of West Dodge sas-based Manhattan Running Co., who had introduced Red Dirt Running Co. to strumentation about two years ago, but Road to West Maple Road. A bridge over it has grown to become about 2% of our Lincoln Highway, Union Pacific tracks the Nebraska market.

“They took me under their wing … and revenues,” Thiele and a creek involves I did a lot of training under them,” Borer re- said. “It’s an area Thiele Geotech a big embankment called. “They taught me, ‘People buy shoes we intend to grow Phone: 402-556-2171 with very precise retwice a year. So, you can’t just sell shoes. and in five years I’d Address: 13478 Chandler Road, Omaha quirements for conThat better not be ‘why’ you’re opening a like to see it at 5% of 68138 struction design and revenues.” running store.’” erection.

Services: geotechnical, material and enviT h i e l e s t a r t e d ronmental engineering, instrumentation and Eventually, when Red Dirt’s owners “Our inclinomedecided to sell the company (the brand ex- working in the geo- earth retention design ter is being used to ists as Red Dirt Race Management), Borer tech field while still Founded: 1996 by Daniel J. Thiele, Mark make sure it is not opted to transition the stores to Fleet Feet in college. He said Ehrhart and Bob Griffin pushing lateral into Sports, a California-founded retailer that monitoring instru- Employees: 60 the creek,” Thiele has expanded to 180-plus stores over its mentation is a grow- One-year goal: Grow instrumentation sersaid. ing discipline that is vices division of the business.

46-year history.

Lapke, a Dunlap, “I had no idea who they were until I applied in pre-con- Industry outlook: There’s more clarity as to Iowa native with both went to running conferences,” she said. s t r u c t i o n d e s i g n , where the industry is going as it recovers from undergraduate and “I’m under an umbrella of stores. It gives during construction, COVID-19. graduate civil engime more marketing power. So, if Brooks and post construc- Website: www.thielegeotech.com neering degrees from has a big initiative, the name is out there tion — among other Iowa State, came to more. The brands value you more, and situations. Such work as construction mon- Thiele Geotech in 2006 with field exitoring and geotechnical instrumentation perience. He said an upswing by land really, they’re a small, small company.”

In fact, Borer is on a first-name basis include common methods such as photo- developers in in-fill projects is finding graphic assessments, borehold inclinome- additional use ground-penetrating radar, with Fleet Feet’s CEO, Joey Pointer.

“He has been in my stores, and he ters, piezometers, vibrometers, settlement which enables project planners and workcalls and checks in on me,” Borer said last gauges and plates, structural monitoring ers to see “void space” below ground. month, noting that shortly beforehand they points, ground water loggers and borehold Examples detected might include buried had FaceTimed. “And, right before COVID extensometers. storage tanks.

Joined by President Bob Lapke and Exdid hit, they started their own online com“We can see through concrete walls and ecutive Vice President Michael F. Gerdes, floors to find utilities and reinforcing steel, pany. That saved a lot of us.”

They also launched a loyalty program, Thiele said the technology investment of among other things,” he said. which rewards customers the more that they $500,000 to $800,000 annually enables Gerdes, an Omaha native with an assoThiele Geotech to have a variety of the lat- ciate degree in civil engineering technology shop with discounts.

“We want to have so many options est solutions available at its 26,000-square- from Iowa Western and an MBA from for [customers] to shop and to bring them foot headquarters at 13478 Chandler Rd. Bellevue University, said his 21 years of The firm’s expanding testing laboratory has industry experience with Thiele Geotech back,” Borer said.

As Borer pivoted last March and April, grown to a point where it has been moved has convinced him of the competitive adshe recalled how her marketing manager, to a nearby quarters. vantage the firm gets from instrumentation About $750,000 is being spent on a ma- technology.

Kalan Dahir, recommended doing Easter jor remodeling of Thiele Geotech’s office baskets and curbside pickup.

“As it has improved, it offers us more “It was a way to do something in a time headquarters. opportunities for use and it is more affordThe management trio cited a midtown able,” he said. “The monitoring can be read of unknown circumstances,” she said.

Additionally, the local stores embarked Council Bluffs sewer project where vibra- via either phone or computer.”

keeping a swift pace; for instance, Lincoln traffic has prompted the addition of 12 team members — from two to 14 employees.

“And it keeps getting busier,” she said.

Borer references the likes of the 80-year-old customer, who appreciates the care they take to fit her shoes (like the “old-fashioned” shoe store’s level of service).

A native of Primrose, Borer said expanding into the Omaha market has been a challenge. She has risen to it by adjusting how they market.

“Lincoln is different, they will drive to my store,” she said. “In Omaha, people are used to not having to go too far.”

While Borer acknowledged Omaha was growing every year, it wasn’t the rate she would have liked. So, she took a step back.

“I’m marketing more to my area,” she said, referring to the likes of runners from Gretna, Elkhorn and Millard who frequent Lake Zorinsky or Chalco.

“After I realized that, it got a lot easier,” Borer said. “My goal is to grow more stores.”

Thiele Geotech expands services in 25th year For example, piezometer technology is being used to measure ground water, elevation, and other factors.

“Data can be sent to us daily that will measure ground water and that data is important to decisions as to how we will respond,” Thiele said.

About 40% of Thiele Geotech’s revenues are generated from infrastructure projects, often for architects, engineers, and construction firms. For example, an addition to an office building or warehouse may include testing of construction materials, concrete and asphalt — among other things — and whether the material meets project specifications.

When asked his appraisal of why the firm that bares his name has enjoyed such growth over the past 25 years, Thiele is quick to cite “partnering with good people” and making sure that “customer service” continues to permeate all operations.

Thiele and about two dozen employees own the business.

While some positions require degrees — especially in the engineering area — for hiring, Thiele said in-service development of employees has been important to the success of the firm.

“Wages of $60,000 to $80,000 a year attract good people if they are willing and want to learn,” he said. “The most important thing to me in hiring is a stable work history.”

Thiele has taken the CEO title and turned the day-to-day operations over to Lapke, now president.

“Much of our growth and diversification has been opportunity-driven,” Thiele told Midlands Business Journal in a 2012 interview.

In celebrating the 25th anniversary of the company, he said that philosophy continues, although he’s spending time thinking about his eventual retirement and the importance of developing younger talent in the firm.

“It’s important to sell highly qualified staff to the clients,” he concluded.

28

• APRIL 2, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

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REGIONAL LANDSCAPES

Briefs…

Integrity Marketing Group, LLC, an independent distributor of life and health insurance products, has acquired Access Capital Group, LLC, a financing company for insurance agents and agencies. As part of the transaction, Principals and co-founders Bryan Neary and Dave Emerton will also serve as managing partners with Integrity. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Over its 13-year history, Access Capital has provided more than $125 million of capital to thousands of agents nationwide. Access Capital’s transactions span more than 500,000 policyholders and over 200 different insurance carriers that offer a broad range of products.

Kids Can Community Center is constructing a new facility, breaking ground this summer. With a mission to educate, engage and inspire kids through early childhood care and out-of-school programs, Kids Can has served Omaha residents for over 113 years.

It has been at its current building at 49th and Q streets since 1964. The new facility will be built one block away at the corner of 48th and Q streets. The new building will include several early childhood classrooms, a STEM learning room, community room and full gymnasium.

Coldwell Banker NHS Real Estate is a winner of the Platinum Award for outstanding performance, presented by Realogy Leads Group. Realogy Leads Group is a dedicated organization within Realogy Holdings Corp, a full-service residential real estate company in the United States. Platinum is the highest level of the Excellence Awards presented.

Excellence Award recognition is based on performance results related to a wide variety of metrics including customer service, cost management, and effective analysis and marketing of homes.

FNTS now offers managed Microsoft Azure Sentinel. The offering provides a modern approach to security analytics and automation through a single solution for alert detection, threat visibility, proactive hunting and threat response across entire infrastructures. Azure Sentinel is the first cloud-native security information and event management (SIEM) platform from a major cloud provider that collects and analyzes activity from all applications and devices to detect threats, identify trends and take proactive and immediate action.

Blueprint Nebraska made a case for a plan to modernize the State’s aging tax code and explained why such an effort is essential for the health and competitiveness of Nebraska’s economy. A combination of economic analysis and academic and tax think tank recommendations helped inform a list of potential strategies that state legislative leaders could consider, including long-term funding for property tax relief, simplifying income taxes to stimulate growth, and aligning economic incentive programs with Blueprint Nebraska initiatives. Recommendations also include the use of regional economic modeling to study and determine the best modernization tactics, including elements of broadening the state’s sales tax base.

Two local nonprofits, The 712 Initiative and Habitat for Humanity of Council Bluffs, have formed a partnership to take action on stabilizing and revitalizing housing in the community. By partnering, these two organizations are able to reduce costs and create efficiencies in delivery of their respective programs,

including 712’s Housing Revitalization Program, Habitat’s home builds, and the shared Rock the Block program. Both organizations are working to create safe and affordable housing within our community. This partnership will help see seven owner-occupied homes added to Council Bluffs each year.

Best Burger has relocated from its Florence location to the Dining Room at Seventy Five North. To celebrate nearly one year in business and a new location, Best Burger will offer new breakfast items and specialty burgers for take-out and curbside pick-up starting at 7 a.m. Seating is open inside and outside of the Dining Room. Seating capacity is limited and patrons of the restaurant will be required to wear masks when not seated or eating.

Education notes…

The Workforce Innovation Division at Metropolitan Community College has introduced the CompTIA Certified Technical Trainer (CTT+) certification course, giving education and training professionals a chance to improve their résumé at a time when virtual learning is becoming more popular. The certification provides training standards to validate skills in a traditional or virtual classroom environment, ensuring students can speak to a class with confidence. The certificate is an industry-accepted standard of excellence to teaching in a virtual or traditional classroom.

Registration is now open. The course is from July 13-17. More information is online.

The Department of Management at the University of Nebraska at Omaha is the recipient of the 2021 university-wide Departmental Teaching Award. The UDTA, one of the President’s Excellence Awards, is the NU system’s most prestigious honor for departmental excellence in teaching. Honored departments are selected by a committee of faculty members from across the university system. The Department of Management will be honored at an event hosted by President Ted Carter this spring.

University of Nebraska researchers are aiming to build on an already established toehold in Rwanda to study and support irrigation ecosystems elsewhere in sub-Saharan Africa.

Earlier this year, researchers affiliated with the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute received a three-year, $1 million grant from the United Nations International Fund for Agricultural Development to advance access and education around smallholder farmer irrigation in the region. Expanding sustainable irrigated agriculture is an important pathway to improved food and nutritional security and resilient rural economies, which are critical in light of the need to feed a growing world population amid climate change.

Health care notes…

Dr. Thomas Kay, M.D., ABFM of New Braunfels, Texas, has joined Strada Healthcare’s network of direct primary care providers. Kay is a board-certified family medicine physician who completed medical school at the University of Texas Medical School and family medicine residency at McLennan County Medical Education and Research Foundation. He also practices emergency medicine. Kay joins Strada Healthcare as the founder of Direct Primary Care New Braunfels.

Children’s Hospital & Medical Center has received the National Guard’s Homeland Defense Service Ribbon and a Statement of Support from the Employer Continued on next page.

Midlands Business Journal • APRIL 2, 2021 • REGIONAL LANDSCAPES Continued from preceding page.

Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a program of the U.S. Department of Defense.

These recognitions are given to organizations and businesses that provide a supportive work environment and culture for service members, ultimately helping to strengthen and ready the U.S. military. Almost half of the U.S. military is comprised of the Guard and Reserve.

Activities of nonprofits…

Local McDonald’s owner-operators of the McDonald’s Great Plains Business Unit are donating $47,703 to Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha. RMHC keeps sick children close to their families and the care they need. This donation was the result of the Round Up for RMHC fundraiser that was held Oct. 1-Dec. 31, 2020. Due to the pandemic, RMHC is down in funds that are needed to continue to provide services to sick children and their families in the community.

Throughout COVID-19, RMHC has kept its doors open to continue to support these families. While it costs RMHC $120 a night to house a family, they ask guests to make a donation of only $20 per night, requiring RMHC to rely heavily on donations. However, no family is ever turned away due to inability to pay.

United Way of the Midland has been awarded a grant of $255,500 from the Iowa West Foundation. The grant will support programs that serve the Council Bluffs metro through UWM’s Community Care Fund.

Prior to COVID-19, more than 100,000 people were living below the poverty line in the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro. Now, thousands of individuals have experienced the physical, mental and financial impacts

of COVID-19, and more people are in need than ever before. Through the Community Care Fund, UWM funds local nonprofit programs that provide basic needs, education and financial stability supports to those who are struggling.

Arts & events…

The Joslyn Art Museum recognizes the potential of interpretation to highlight the diverse histories, beliefs, and practices embodied in works of art. Omaha Speaks seeks to broaden the conventional interpretation of objects in the permanent collection by introducing commentary from leaders in our community. The first six contributors include: Barber, Beaufield Berry-Fisher, Zanna George (Mistress Mynx), Dawaune Lamont Hayes, Diana Martinez, and Erin Poor. Free timed tickets and masks are required; reserve in advance at www.joslyn.org.

MEETINGS AND SEMINARS Thursday, April 8 Mutual of Omaha will host its first-ever conference catered to women in the financial services sales industry. The half-day event, Win in 202Won!, will take place virtually on April 8, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Registration is free and open to all. Attendees will hear from a variety of speakers on a range of topics, including: Life Lessons from Jessica Korda, LPGA professional; Love What You Do from Dana Spinola, motivational speaker and philanthropist; and Run Like a Girl/Allyship Workshop from Angela Cooper, vice president of diversity and inclusion at Mutual of Omaha. Those interested in attending the free virtual event can register online.

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West Gate Bank to build new branch at 177th & Maple Street West Gate Bank has announced plans to expand its presence in the Omaha market with the building of a fourth location at 177th & Maple Street. The 7,000 square foot branch will begin construction in the spring with an opening in mid-2022. The location will include a full-service retail branch and drive-thru with Interactive Teller Machines (ITMs), as well as commercial lending, mortgage lending and business banking solutions. “The

addition of our Maple branch at 177th & Maple Street gives us a dynamic presence to serve the fast-growing area of northwest Omaha and Elkhorn,” said Carl Sjulin, President & CEO of West Gate Bank. Currently with ten locations in Lincoln and Omaha, West Gate Bank is committed to providing its customers with all the services a large bank can offer with the outstanding, personal customer service that only a community bank can provide.

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• APRIL 2, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

Tips for hiring the ‘right’ wedding planner

by Brooke Strickland

Wedding and event planners are in the business of helping people from all walks of life celebrate and capture life’s special moments, milestones, and memories. If you are considering hiring a wedding or event planner this year, here are some important things to keep in mind.

This Year’s Trends Last year brought many changes to how events and weddings were conducted. Thankfully, wedding and event planners in Omaha and the surrounding area were able to do what they do best: adapt and keep the creative vision flowing. This year, planners are continuing to see a transition to smaller, more intimate weddings and events.

“There’s definitely a shift towards what we call ‘micro weddings,’” said Alison Smith, director and event planner at Lust for Life Event Planning + Wedding Design. “These are smaller, more intimate dinner style parties. The guest lists are scaled back, but this leaves more time to select the finer details and have room in the budget to allocate towards splurge items. I think we’re seeing a lot more customization which gives the events a more personal feel.”

Sarah McMahon, wedding planner at S. Lukas & Company, said, “Now that we are seeing smaller and more intimate gatherings, there is a more individualized approach for each guest. For these [events], couples focus more on the details and individualize the experience, which allows the couple’s personality to shine.”

Reasons to Hire a Planner Planning and throwing a special event requires the successful management of many moving parts. Wedding and event planners play a key role in organizing all these details — before and during the event. A good planner gives everyone the confidence they need to relax and enjoy, knowing that everything is taken care of.

“Event planners are well worth the money invested and the right planner can end up saving

money for their clients during the process,” said Kimmylea Konsel-Taylor, owner and designer

Smith McMahon at LimeLight Expressions. “They help guide you through the planning process, give you peace of mind, and eliminate the stress for bride, client, parents, friends and family during the day of the event. Having someone manage your vendors, make the event look professional, and smooth out the process is the key to any event

match yours.”

You will be spending a lot of time with the planner you hire, so making sure you get along and communicate well is essential.

“Scheduling a consultation and talking to a wedding or event planner never hurts,” Smith said. “It’s a good way to see if what they offer is what you need and to get a general sense of if you’d get along. This person is going to be with you throughout your entire wedding day and/or basically attending your event. So, you want someone you feel comfortable with and can easily work with.”

Your event is something that you want to remember for the rest of your life. Finding the right planner to walk alongside you from start to finish will help make your vision a reality.

“Make sure the planner is going to be responsive when you need them to be,” Konsel-Taylor said. “Make sure they will be attentive to the needs of you, your friends, and your family the day of your wedding or event. Being assertive, professional, personable and organized are key elements of a professional event planner.”

Local businesses gearing up to hire as post-pandemic growth looms

by David Kubicek

With the COVID-19 pandemic all but behind us, many firms are hiring again.

The Farnam Autograph Collection began hiring for Ambassador positions in February, according to General Manager Tony Moody.

“We have about 40 positions to fill as we prepare for opening day of The Farnam in April,” he said.

Some Ambassadors are already on the job and are going through the unique Marriott Autograph Collection training with a concierge focus on the customer experience. Most of the hotel’s ambassadors began work and training on March 29.

“There are numerous roles based on each position, but we work very hard to empower each employee to serve as a concierge no matter

What is a vaccine passport and will you need one to travel?

Continued from page 25.

Boston to Aruba, which requires a negative COVID-19 test. The Commons Project Foundation is working with other airlines, including United Airlines, and is in talks with about 30 countries, in hopes of broadening access, Meyer said.

The International Air Transport Association has been testing its app and expects it to be available by late March or early April. Airlines could also integrate portions of the association’s app into their own, Flint said.

Some currently only accept COVID-19 test records. Clear said it will begin validating vaccine records soon, and United plans to start letting customers flying to eligible destinations upload and store vaccination records using its app in early April.

Do you still need other records?

Yes. United Airlines and American Airlines encourage passengers to bring additional documentation of negative tests even if their results have been verified through the airlines’ apps, since international destinations may require additional proof their requirements have been met.

Should I be worried about privacy?

Vaccine passport creators haven’t shared many details on how they will protect users’ information, Hancock said, raising concerns about privacy and data breaches.

or wedding.”

Small details are often what cause the most stress.

“Planners ensure that anything and everything has been accounted for and they have backup plans in case anything happens,” Smith said. “They will use their best judgment and expertise to make decisions on the fly so that you don’t have to stress over any of that.”

What to Look For Konsel-Taylor Personality, online reviews, and style are some of the most important things to consider when interviewing potential planners.

“Research your local area wedding planners,” McMahon recommended. “Look at their websites, check out their reviews and make sure that the ‘style’ of weddings they have planned

The International Air Transport Association and CommonPass said apps won’t store data in a central place and will let users choose when to share it.

Consumers may decide it’s worth sharing vaccine status or test results with airlines, which already have a lot of their personal information, said Matthew Kugler, an associate professor at Northwestern University’s Pritzker School of Law. Can they be used for anything besides travel?

Chicago-based Hyatt is exploring using VeriFLY, the same app American Airlines uses, to let people planning events set up criteria for meeting participants, such as a negative COVID-19 test. The Commons Project Foundation is working with hotels, cruises and schools to potentially use CommonPass to verify test or vaccine records, Meyer said.

Clear has partnered with companies that use its app to conduct health questionnaires, temperature checks or require COVID-19 tests for employees or customers. The Buffalo Sabres, for instance, are using Health Pass to have fans get tested and take a screening questionnaire before attending hockey games. ©2021 Chicago Tribune.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

what the position,” Moody said.

Immanuel Communities gives compensation to employees who complete its education

pre-pandemic levels,” Odenthal said. “We work closely with businesses to help promote job openings, conduct job fairs, and help identify

Moody Knecht assistance programs, Vice President of Sales Jennifer Knecht said.

The Executive Director in Training (EDIT) program has been a cornerstone at Immanuel for employee development. In the year-long program participants receive a hands-on, comprehensive orientation in all areas of Immanuel’s business in preparation for becoming an executive director.

Participants spend extensive time with all existing executive directors, home office leadership staff, and receive mentoring with an executive coach.

“Graduates receive comprehensive training into leadership skills and styles of leadership which helps them to hone their own unique style,” Knecht said. “The collaborative nature of the EDIT program enables participants to develop close relationships with peer leaders whose knowledge and experience becomes a tool belt of support as they further their careers at Immanuel.”

Heartland Workforce Solutions’ (HWS) American Job Center is a one-stop career hub that supports, trains and educates career-seekers and helps businesses find qualified candidates, according to Director of Business Relations Stan Odenthal.

The self-service resource center’s tools include online access to job opportunities, online resume-building tools, resume critiquing, job-related copying and faxing, assistance with NEworks.Nebraska.gov registration and job search, books, videos and printed information related to the job search, and information on HWS’s partners and community resources that can help job seekers.

“Omaha’s unemployment levels continue to trend downward but are still not quite at

Scott Olinger talent acquisition solutions.”

Clarence Scott, talent acquisition specialist for maintenance and engineering at Smithfield Foods, said the firm has partnered with Metropolitan Community College in Omaha to offer a U.S. Department of Labor registered maintenance mechanic apprenticeship program.

Ten apprentices signed up for the four-year program on March 12 and will train at Smithfield’s Lincoln, Crete, Des Moines or Sioux City facilities.

Apprentices receive salary and benefits, and will earn a Federal U.S. Department of Labor Completion of Registered Apprenticeship certificate, a journeyman’s license, and free college credit toward a certificate or degree at MCC. “We plan to launch another program in Iowa this fall and are planning another new program to launch in spring 2022,” Scott said.

“Our goal is to have 75 to 80 active apprentices across the company by the end of 2021.”

Spreetail has 300 posted positions and expects to add at least 200 to 300 more throughout the year, depending on growth, according to Chief People Person Emily Olinger. Many of the posted positions are at the Omaha location, where about 40% of Spreetail’s workforce lives.

The shift from in-store to online buying during the pandemic is driving the firm’s growth.

The company has a week-long onboarding program where new team members learn about retail and the ecommerce industry. Spreetail also has a talent development team that focuses not only on training, but also on career growth and personal development.

“We have several different leadership programs and courses to help them hone their skill sets,” Olinger said.

Midlands Business Journal • APRIL 2, 2021 •

In the Spotlight Paid Content

WORKPLACE HEALTH

ACCESSIBILITY Appointed

Hired

Melinda Sorenson Director of Workplace Wellbeing and Member Services The Wellbeing Partners

The Wellbeing Partners is proud to welcome Melinda Sorenson, M.S., as the Director of Workplace Wellbeing and Member Services. In this role, Melinda will work to build a culture of health within workplaces by advancing the integration of the social determinants of health and mental wellbeing into the way businesses care for their teams. Melinda has a

Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Nebraska – Omaha and Master’s Degree in Strategic Industrial Organizational Psychology from Bellevue University. Melinda is a member of Leadership Omaha Class 43, and serves on the board for Blackstone FarnamFest, SkateFest, and the Omaha Network, and is an ambassador for QLI and BFF Omaha (formerly Benson First Friday). The Wellbeing Partners is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that seeks to build wellbeing into the way communities grow and do business by supporting the growth of a culture of wellbeing within organizations as well as acting as a convener to address local community health challenges.

BUSINESS ETHICS

Diana Criser Member Outlook Business Solutions Accessibility Advisory Council

Outlook Business Solutions recently appointed Diana Criser, a product and field technology specialist with Securities America, to its new Accessibility Advisory Council for its digital accessibility testing service offering, Ally Support. This subscription-based service provides accessibility expertise for development teams and content creators, allowing them to troubleshoot and remove accessibility issues without having to add full-time staff.

BANKING Added

Elected

Steve Koesters Treasurer Business Ethics Alliance Governing Board

Steve Koesters, the CEO of Fusion Medical Staffing, will serve in the role of Treasurer and as a member of the Business Ethics Alliance Governing Board.

Steve joined Fusion in 2018 as CFO. He is a graduate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha, specializing in accounting and economics, and has a strong background in finance and accounting, with over 15 years of experience in public accounting.

He has a commitment to the community and volunteering, previously serving on the board for two nonprofits and championing Fusion’s Be the Change efforts to impact the Omaha area community. He prioritizes his family and focuses on maintaining the strong workplace culture at Fusion.

Carson Wealth

Abby Mack, CeXP, Business Development Officer at Carson Wealth, has completed the Certified Exit Planner designation from the Business Enterprise Institute. As part of the Carson Private Client team, Mack specializes in helping families with multigenerational wealth and closely held business owners in need of complex family office solutions.

Through BEI CExP training, rigorous testing and in-depth Exit Plan Creation

Bank of Bennington

Bank of Bennington is excited to announce the promotion of Christopher Reiner to Chief Credit Officer.

Chris leads our team of lenders and credit administrators and manages our actively growing commercial loan portfolio. Chris is an accomplished banker and portfolio manager with 19 years of expertise in credit administration, relationship development, and financial structuring.

Hired

Business Exit Planning Certification

Business Development Officer

Chief Credit Officer

ENGINEERING

ACHIEVEMENT

Abby Mack, CeXP

Christopher Reiner

coursework, Mack has demonstrated that she is qualified to provide comprehensive, professionally executed Exit Planning services to Nebraska business owners. “The BEI Seven Step Exit Planning Process perfectly positions Mack to counsel business owners and their advisors on a wide array of business issues ranging from building value within a business to identifying exit objectives, addressing key employee incentive planning and retention issues, incorporating business continuity planning, and establishing wealth preservation,” said John Brown, President of Business Enterprise Institute. Mack is active in the Omaha community, serving on guilds for Project Harmony and Child Saving Institute. She is also involved in QLI Ambassadorship and was part of the Leadership Omaha Class 42.

Travis Figard Project Manager E & A Consulting Group, Inc.

Travis Figard, PE, joined E&A as a project manager with a focus on water resources for both their Omaha and Lincoln markets. His experience includes 20 years of water resources and roadway design. Travis is licensed in Nebraska, Kansas and Iowa, and graduated from the University of NE - Lincoln. E&A is an engineering, planning and field services firm.

Submit your company’s employee announcements to Spotlight@mbj.com

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• APRIL 2, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal