Midlands Business Journal February 22, 2019 Vol. 45 No. 8 issue

ENGINEERING PROFESSION

A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands Business Journal

FEBRUARY 22, 2019

Innovative delivery methods present opportunities for better project outcomes

by Michelle Leach

Challenges and opportunities abound amid old infrastructure and new technologies.

Olsson Associates President Ryan Beckman referred to growth driven by tech and cost-efficient solutions in energy, water, transportation, telecom, government and facilities markets.

“The connectivity from design to completion of construction is an area that we constantly monitor,” he said.

“With changing technology and new design software occurBeckman ring at a rapid pace, the interface between all the parties involved — owners, contractors, engineers, architects — is even more critical to make sure the project is a success.”

Beckman referred to maintaining professional integrity while remaining open to new and innovative design and construction ideas.

Alvine Engineering Associate Principal Richard A. Woodson said there are $3 billion-plus projects in various stages of plan-

Associate Principal Richard Woodson at Alvine Engineering. ning and design that will require engineering He highlighted “traditional” designover the coming years. bid-build methods, as well as design-build “Our clients continually challenge us to delivery, construction manager-at-risk and deliver innovative projects faster, cheaper project management-led, which are effective and better,” he said. when aligned with program requirements

Reaanddit

and owner expectations; for example, design-build via health care projects and Eppley Airfield terminal expansion and project management-led Omaha Public Schools’ 2014 and 2018 bond issue projects.

While the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED program continues to be a standard for sustainability, Woodson said many LEED principles are now “code-required minimums.”

Therefore, Alvine is defining and driving energy efficiency through net-zero principles, whereby the building’s annual delivered energy is Tondl less than (or equal to) the onsite renewable exported energy (plus acquired Renewable Energy Certificates).

With record low unemployment nationally, especially in Nebraska, Woodson also noted how clients are asking engineers to explore how new buildings and enhancements can be used as a recruiting tool, including performance-based WELL Building principles. Set by the International WELL Building Institute, it measures the built environment’s impact on human health and Continued on next page.

Reap!

Engineering Profession — inside FEBRUARY 22, 2019

THE BUSINESS NEWSPAPER OF GREATER OMAHA, LINCOLN AND COUNCIL BLUFFS

THIS WEEK 'S ISSUE:

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VOL. 45 NO. 8

Lockton expands with new staff and retirement plans

by Richard D. Brown

Big Brothers Big Sisters launches rebrand, targets volunteer recruitment.

– Page 2

Pinecone Partners branches out with individual, senior-focused services.

– Page 4

0 r4 de n U 40 Barry plays instrumental role in shaping future technical workforce at MCC. – Page 5

Nebraska’s Lockton Cos. office, opened in 2011, is banking on a growth in staff as it continues to increase its market share with the rollout of retirement products.

Jack H. Struyk, Jr., president of Lockton Cos.-Nebraska, said the Omaha-based office of the privately-held Kansas City-based firm has grown by at least 10 employees in the past two years as part of his strategic initiative to enhance the firm’s presence with the products and services it offers Cornhusker state businesses.

Part of the staffing increase is intended to facilitate a move into retirement plan products, which came last year.

“We’re developing a great mix of business clients in Nebraska that include contractors, large retailers, medical firms including nursing homes and other skilled health care providers, distribution businesses and manufacturing firms,” Struyk said.

Struyk, an Omaha native and Continued on page 9.

President Jack Struyk, front center, with Senior Vice President Brad Smith, front left, Vice President Cody Beguin, back left, and Vice President of Employee Benefits Colleen Block, right … Expansion in (Photo by MBJ / Becky McCarville) retirement plans has boosted the Nebraska operations.

Midwest Right of Way Services leverages relocation expertise

by Michelle Leach

Family-owned and -operated Midwest Right of Way Services is building upon its history of negotiating acquisition-related deals and the relocation assistance that has distinguished it from other firms over the past two decades.

“I’ve seen my parents grow the business from what my dad previously did, and it earned him a

lot of respect and admiration from his peers over the years,” said second-generation leadership John E. Borgmeyer, named chief operating officer in early January. “I’ve got to see the inner workings of how acquisitions were settled and the way agents handled themselves …

Being a part of it made me realize it was honorable; we have a positive Continued on page 9.

Principal and Creative Director Greg Daake … Problem-solving and transforming brands for local and national clients in the dynamic, 10,000-square-foot space.

Daake’s move to new space propels branding company to greater growth

by Becky McCarville

From left, COO John E. Borgmeyer, Vice President Laura Borgmeyer and President Jack Borgmeyer … Second-generation family business announces leadership change to pave way for further growth in right of way niche.

“Sometimes you have to get out of your surroundings — there’s something metaphysical about it,” said Daake Design’s Principal and Creative Director Greg Daake. “You shouldn’t have to go to Chicago for an aha moment.”

That’s why the branding strategy and design firm’s new 10,000-square-foot home, located

one building east of its previous location in the Pacific Springs Vista Development near 168th and Pacific streets, was intentionally designed for growth, creativity and collaboration. The standalone building is three times bigger than Daake’s previous location and was formerly occupied by Sojern.

“We have goals of tripling the size of our business and thus the Continued on page 25.

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• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal

Big Brothers Big Sisters launches rebrand, targets volunteer recruitment

by Savannah Behrends

Celebrating its 60th anniversary serving youth in the Midlands, Big Brothers Big Sisters is looking to cut its youth wait list through engaging the community in partnerships.

BBBS specializes in community-based youth mentoring, allowing screened and trained volunteers to pick up matched “littles” and do various activities in the community.

“The kids in our program are facing some

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands Phone: 402-330-2449 Address: 10831 Old Mill Road, Suite 400, Omaha 68154 Services: connecting volunteer mentors with at-risk youth in seven counties.

Employees: 36 Goal: Reduce wait list by partnering with local companies for recruitment sessions and discounts; determine the next physical location for BBBS of the Midlands; increase brand recognition among young professionals.

Website: bbbsomaha.org

kind of adversity and just need another caring adult to defend their potential,” said CEO Nichole Turgeon.

Turgeon, who has led Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands since 2011, said most

Correction

FNTS was established in 1995. In the Feb. 8 issue of Midlands Business Journal an article inadvertently stated the organization was established in 1996.

CEO Nichole Turgeon … Nonprofit aims to empower at-risk youth through consistent community-based mentoring. of the enrolled youth come from single-parent Partnership, of 50 percent. households or foster care.

“When we first started measuring we were Research shows enrolled youth do better at 59 percent,” Turgeon said. “[We] made inin school, have better relationships and are less vestments by making the activities coordinator likely to engage in risky behaviors. position full time.”

In 2018, BBBS of the Midlands served Turgeon also credits the retention rate to the 1,070 youth, and about 86 percent are expect13 staff members who work to create lasting ed to continue for another year. The Midlands matches and support those matches. This deretention rate outpaces BBBS’ national rate of partment grows the most to keep caseloads low.

71 percent and all mentoring organizations, Staff specializing in the challenges of foster reported by Mentor: The National Mentorship care have even fewer cases. The average child

The Midlands Business Journal's

Business Minute Name: Sarah Miller.

Age: 41.

Title: Director of medical services.

Place of employment : One World Community Health Centers.

Hometown: Billings, Montana.

Education: Master of Science in Nursing; Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Bachelor of Science in Biology; FoundaSarah Miller, tions in Effective Supervision Certificate. director of medical services How I got into the business: Since OneWorld CommuI was in junior year nity Health Centers of high school, I dreamed of working with children as a pediatrician. I wanted to go to Creighton University Medical School, however, I missed the guaranteed admission by 0.01 of a GPA. I decided to go to the Dominican Republic and start the accelerated nursing program. After completing the intensive nursing program, I decided to become a pediatric nurse practitioner. I came to OneWorld in April 2002 after starting as a nurse on the pediatric in-patient floor and pediatric intensive care unit at The Nebraska Medical Center. In May 2007, I earned my Master of Science in Nursing and was hired as the first pediatric nurse practitioner for

Sarah Miller, director of medical services OneWorld Community Health Centers

OneWorld.

First job: Val’s Radiator Repair.

The toughest part of the job: Balancing compassion fatigue. When I am working in patient care, I empathize with patients through their joys and struggles. I want my patients to know I am here on this journey with them and grateful they have chosen me.

The best advice I have received: Focus on what you know is true — Jaynye Emsick.

About my family: Derek, my husband; Hannah, my 11-year-old daughter; Eli, my 9-year-old son; and Jackson, who will be 4 in March.

Something else I’d like to accomplish: Perhaps a Ph.D. in public health or CEO of a nonprofit.

How my business will change in the next decade: I think that OneWorld will continue to need to find balance between staff development and strategic growth, considering staff and patients may or may not have a lot of practice in interpersonal and professional skills while embracing technology. We need to work on the work balance of first generation Hispanic-Americans and second and third generation Hispanic-Americans.

Mentor who has helped the most in my career: Dr. Kristine McVea. McVea has given me opportunities I didn’t think were possible.

She hired me as a nurse practitioner when I didn’t think anyone in Omaha would and encouraged me to be her right hand. Andrea Skolkin believed in me to take on projects and child-serving community opportunities.

Outside interests: I have served on the Countryside Community Church Board of Christian Outreach for five years. I love coaching girls’ softball and am the vice president for the Westgate/Westside Softball Association. I love college sports of any kind.

Favorite vacation spot: Anywhere my husband, three children along with my mother, brother, sister-in-law and two nieces are.

Other careers I would like to try: I would love to advocate and legally advise immigrant families at an immigrant legal center. CEO of any nonprofit advocating for those in poverty or underserved.

Favorite movie: “Top Gun” and “Love Actually.”

Favorite cause or charity: Tri-Faith Initiative. I believe that no matter where people are in this journey we call life, that all are welcome. It is more important to find our similarities and embrace our differences.

Favorite app: Facebook.

(Editor’s note: To nominate an interesting businessman or woman for the Business Minute, please e-mail information about the person to news@mbj.com.)

in the Nebraska foster care system changes placements five times by the age of 18, and agencies aren’t required to notify BBBS. Consistency is incredibly important for at-risk youth who experience loss frequently.

“We partner with almost all of the foster care organizations in Omaha so that case workers know BBBS is important and that [the youth are] expected to continue,” Turgeon said.

This year, the team of 36 hopes to break the 1,100 mark, with at least 10 percent coming from foster care. She said the main limiting factor is finding volunteers, especially men.

While BBBS of the Midlands has been able to consistently maintain and grow its numbers, across the nation BBBS has seen a decline in brand recognition with young adults.

“Young people in their 20s and 30s are most likely to volunteer with us, so if they don’t know who we are that makes it incredibly hard,” Turgeon said.

BBBS headquarters launched a national rebranding last year that included changes to logo, colors and messaging.

Local efforts include marketing that targets males, since finding mentors for boys tends to be more difficult.

“We serve an equal amount of boys and girls (littles) but the wait list is probably 75 percent boys,” Turgeon said. “[Men] tend to stay longer, it’s just taking that first step.”

Its overall wait list was hovering around 130 in January, and the team is hoping to find more volunteers through partnerships.

Partnerships can include discounts from local businesses; for example eCreamery offers a free cone to a little when a big buys one.

Partnerships also include hosting recruitment sessions.

Recently, the Greater Omaha YMCA and BBBS announced a recruitment partnership in which mentors previously volunteering through Continued on page 5.

Midlands Business Journal Established in 1975

PUBLISHER & FOUNDER, Robert Hoig

ADMINISTRATION VP OF OPERATIONS, Andrea “Andee” Hoig

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

ADVERTISING ADVERTISING CONSULTANT, Catie Kirby ADVERTISING CONSULTANT, Julie Whitehead OFFICE OFFICE ASSISTANT, Rosemary Gregurich BOOKKEEPING/LEGAL NOTICES, Beth Grube

(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 1324 S. 119th St., Omaha, NE 68144. Periodical postage paid at Omaha NE POSTMASTER; Send address changes to Midlands Business Journal, 1324 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 • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 •

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• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal

Pinecone Partners branches out with individual, senior-focused services

by Michelle Leach CPA Karen Wanek-Voien, Anderson said the Six-year-old Pinecone Partners has branched Omaha-based firm works with individuals out from business and nonprofit work to individwho need expertise on the “business of life;” ual resources, identifying employer needs and for instance, insurance claims and questions, negotiating affordable and estate-related aclegal expertise, and fa- Pinecone Partners count changes. Goals cilitating “difficult con- Phone: 402-968-5981 are two-fold: Prevent versations” that might Services: connects businesses and/ fraud and maintain an assure an older relative or individuals with expert advice; legal, individual’s independoesn’t fall prey to a financial and marketing services, special dence by helping them projects, and planning and insurance costly scam alike. with tasks like paying T h e s e e f f o r t s banking for business and nonprofit bills and taxes and restared in 2017 when clients; services for individuals, families, viewing mail. co-founder/Consul- guardians and conservators including Anderson said tant Marcia Anderson bill pay and mail review, asset inventory, many companies prosaid Pinecone was ap- assessment of Activities of Daily Living, vide companion care, proached about provid- and long-term care insurance benefits meal prep and help with ing services to an indi- discovery and claims processing physical care. vidual. Adjustments Founded: 2013 “Not many are adto the business model Goals: Launch speaker series to dressing these other address “business of aging” amid the followed. areas that make an in“ We a t t e n d e d “aging boom.” dividual safe and are a a class given by the Website: pineconepartners.com buffer against fraud,” Office of the Public she said.

Guardian and became familiar with the requireThe Pinecone team likes the term “conments set by the Nebraska Supreme Court for cierge;” they’ve arranged for everything from individuals appointed in a guardianship capaca handyman and computer repair, to shredding ity,” Anderson said. “Our providers have backold paperwork and even home exercise to proground checks and abuse registry clearances. mote balance.

Additionally, we have a special insurance policy Anderson, whose expertise and experience that protects our clients against theft. Pinecone has spanned finance, securities, compliance, does not want to be appointed as a guardian, but governance and software licensing, indicated its it is our goal to provide support for appointed initial focus was to get “professional” services guardians, families, friends … who take on this to businesses and nonprofits that didn’t know role for another.” how to access or find legal, accounting, finanJoined by lawyer Jenna VonAhsen and cial modeling, bookkeeping, marketing and/or

From left, co-founders Jenna VonAhsen, Marcia Anderson and Karen Wanek-Voien at their client’s office, ActionCOACH Training Center … Unique array of “concierge” services includes goal of preventing victimization of aging population, bringing large organizations’ professional services to smaller businesses and nonprofits. web services.

“Pinecone sees a serious need in our comFor example, Anderson said Pinecone helps munity for all of us to be aware of our aging the owner define the legal expertise that is need- family members and neighbors,” she said. ed (such as a lease review), and then identifies When appropriate, she said Pinecone will the lawyer to negotiate a flat fee or one with a partner with subject matter experts. Anderson cap so they don’t “break the bank.” referred to how University of Nebraska at As to the brand, Anderson said the pinecone Omaha Department of Gerontology’s Janelle represents the corporate symbol for the company Beadle, Ph.D. and Methodist Geriatric Clinic’s where the founding members formerly worked Dr. Rebecca Reilly speak about the healthy — and met each other. The “Omaha orange” aging brain and how, with age, impulse concolor elicits caution signs, traffic cones and their trol and executive function decision-making ilk — a nod to its “warning” clients to proceed becomes more difficult. These changes make with caution on the rocky road of business and, seniors more susceptible to fraud via phone, when in doubt, to call Pinecone. mail, computer, or at their door.

According to Anderson, Pinecone is akin Topics might include the importance of to have all of a large corporation’s in-house health care and financial power of attorney, departments — making professional services hospice, and the advantages and disadvantages accessible to smaller entities. of Medicare supplement versus Medicare AdMany times, a client’s needs require multi- vantage plans — starting conversations on hard ple disciplines. She said they point this out, so it subjects, especially financial security. can be communicated to a provider or a provider “We get a lot of our business from financial can be identified for them; for instance, legal and advisers, and I like to ask them about the Equifax accounting or tax impacts must be coordinated. data breach,” she said.

“We really hate mistakes and a waste of Anderson recalled how a financial advismoney, especially when that can be prevented er’s father took care of his 91-year-old grandwith a little expert help,” she said. mother’s business.

Anderson said in January that Pinecone is “I asked him if the father put a hold or froze developing a series of talks to educate children, her credit reports,” she said. “Identity theft is a neighbors, HR departments, churches and others big concern. If we can get folks informed before about the “business” of aging and preparing for there is a crisis, so that an informed decision can the “aging boom.” be made, it’s a home run.”

Securing capital just the beginning of starting business the operational cycle of the business is also

by Lee Nelson key.”

Getting a loan for a startup business can The amount of money it will take for be complex and requires a lot of research, a startup is unique for every patience, a savings account and situation. But the amount may projections. be affected by how much the However, recent trends include company can afford to pay, the entrepreneurial zones or startup availability of collateral, personal hubs where small business startups credit history, and the timing of can share space and resources, said the need for capital, Piercy said.

Gary Piercy, director of commer“Startups fail at a much cial banking at Arbor Bank. higher rate than other business“This may include access to es,” he said. “Banks need to be potential funding sources,” he said. good stewards of the deposits “Loans are requested most often, in their bank by making good but that is only part of the picture Piercy lending decisions. The result to become a successful startup. A is that banks will look very closely at evbusiness plan is crucial, especially one that ery request to fund a startup that comes clearly states the value proposition of your their way. Not all banks have the same company — what makes you unique? A firm understanding of how money flows through Continued on page 10.

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 •

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Barry plays instrumental role in shaping future technical workforce at MCC Editor’s Note: This is one of a series of profiles featuring Midlands Business Journal 40 Under 40 award winners — entrepreneurs, business owners, managers and professionals under 40 years of age.

by Dwain Hebda

Dr. Nathan Barry joined Metropolitan Community College to help lead programming and creation of the Construction Education Center, a facility completed in 2017. Under his guidance, the new center has more than fulfilled its promise of attracting more students to the technical and construction trades.

“We have seven academic programs that serve the construction industry all the way from construction management to civil engineering, architecture and then the specialties in HVAC, electrical, plumbing and welding,” he said.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Continued from page 2. the YMCA could opt into BBBS. “If we could get 1 percent of their adult membership to volunteer, it would take care of our wait list,” Turgeon said.

As an incentive, the YMCA encourages volunteering members to add their mentee to their membership at no cost. But even if every YMCA member signed up to volunteer, she said there will probably always be a wait list.

“We know there are 40,000 kids in the community that could benefit from the program,” she said. “We need volunteers.”

“Since we’ve moved to the new facility, we’ve redeveloped how we teach. As a result, we’ve seen record growth, almost 40 percent enrollment increase in most of our programs across the board in just the year and a half since we’ve been open.”

The success of the program goes hand in hand with the involvement of local industry, something Barry called instrumental to the program’s success.

“What’s exciting is that industry is coming and working with our students like never before,” he said. “We really have a collaborative approach where students may be starting their degree and they’re not currently employed, but by the time they end they’ve done an internship with a company here in town.

They’ve got a career path they can jump right into.”

Barry boasts a diverse background in construction that makes him an effective bridge between classroom and industry.

Prior to joining MCC, he was an assistant professor and lecturer in the construction management program at University of Nebraska-Kearney. He also spent seven years as president of Advantage Business Services and has been vice president of operations with Homework, LLC., project manager at Rodrock Homes, LLC., and construction superintendent with Pulte Homes of Greater Kansas City.

“I moved to Omaha because I heard what the Omaha community was doing in the career technical area,” he said. “Now

Dr. Nathan Barry, dean of career and technical education … Leading efforts to attract students to technical and construction trades. that I’ve been here almost three years, I whether it’s nonprofit or industry or K-12 can tell you it’s more fun and more exciting or the universities or us at the community Continued on page 8. than I thought it would be. The community,

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• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal

UPCOMING

SECTIONS

IN THE MIDLANDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

MARCH 1

AVIATION IN THE MIDLANDS

HIGHER EDUCATION MARCH 8

INVESTMENTS

MARCH 15

EMPLOYMENT AND STAFFING To advertise your company’s products or services in one of our upcoming sections, contact one of our MBJ advertising representatives at (402) 330-1760 or at the email addresses below.

Julie Whitehead - Julie@mbj.com • Catie Kirby - ads@mbj.com Space and materials deadline is the Friday prior to the publication date.

You may email us your insertion orders directly, or fax them to us at (402) 758-9315. We will acknowledge receiving your instructions.

REGIONAL LANDSCAPES

Greater Omaha Chamber names 2019 Omaha Business Hall of Fame recipients

Eight Omaha community members will be honored on April 17 at the Omaha Business Hall of Fame gala celebration at the Holland Performing Arts Center. Hosted by the Greater Omaha Chamber, the evening will begin at 6 p.m. with hors d’oeruves. The 2019 Omaha Business Hall of Fame inductees are: Daniel J. Bishop, founder and chairman of the board, The Maids International; Gail DeBoer, president & CEO, Cobalt Credit Union; John W. Estabrook, president and CEO (retired), Methodist Health System; Gale L. Wickersham, chairman & founder, Wick’s Truck Trailers, Inc.; The Kavich Family, All Makes: Jeff Kavich, president/CEO; Larry Kavich, chairman (retired); Lazier Kavich, second generation owner; and Amee Zetzman, executive vice president/chief financial officer.

Briefs…

United Distributors has been in business for 40 years, offering water purification solutions for residential properties, food service, commercial properties, industrial properties, high-purity, and medical. Now known as Clean Water Guys, this family-run, local business officially rebranded Feb. 1. Its corporate name will remain United Distributors, Inc. to ease the transition for existing clients. The rebrand will include a total refresh of its online presence highlighting the new Clean Water Guys logo and color palette.

The 712 Initiative has added Tom Hanafan and Pete Petersen as new board members.

Hanafan and Petersen joined the board in January for three-year terms. Hanafan served as mayor of Council Bluffs from 1988 to 2013 and has since remained active with affiliations to nearly 20 community organizations. Petersen had been an original member of the Bluffs Downtown board. Along with being a business and property owner in the Haymarket District, Petersen is on the board for the Pottawattamie Conservation Foundation, a volunteer for Western Iowa Honor Flight and has various other community volunteer roles.

AARP endorsed legislation to help provide Nebraskans with the workplace flexibility they need to care for their loved ones without putting their jobs and finances in jeopardy. LB 311, the Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Act, offers paid leave to Nebraska workers to care for themselves or a family member with a serious health condition, a new child, or a military family member preparing for or returning from deployment. Nearly two in three family caregivers in the workforce are caring for a relative age 65 or older, and that number is expected to grow as the state’s population ages.

The Greater Omaha Chamber Young Professionals announced the organization’s 2019 YP Council members. YP Council members apply and are selected for threeyear terms. New 2019 Members: Armando Becerril, senior audit associate, KPMG; Chris Humphries, trainer, First National Bank of Omaha; Assan Manneh, branch manager, Cobalt Credit Union; Rebecca Martinez, academic and career advisor, University of Nebraska at Omaha; Megan Moslander, development director and national advocacy leader, College Possible; Gunhee Park, founder of Populum; Alysia Radicia, designer, RDG Planning & Design; Zach Reinhardt, financial analyst, Burlington Capital; and Gil Shalmon, public adjuster and building consultant, Premier Claims.

The Harry A. Koch Co. has acquired Williams-Deras & Associates. Williams-Deras & Associates was founded in 1979 by Michael R. Williams and Keith Deras to provide clients with employee benefits & life insurance solutions. The employee benefits division now consists of 21 employee benefit professionals, serving nearly 1000 employers across the region.

The acquisition was based on the alignment of values between Williams-Deras & Associates and The Harry A. Koch Co., especially in the areas of exceptional client service and delivery of real-world solutions.

FNTS has formed a technology partnership with Folding@home, a computing project committed to identifying new ways to treat diseases. Folding@home was created at Standford University in 2000 and now consists of teams from 11 universities around the world that research protein dynamics. Folding@home is analyzing diseases that result from protein misfolding and utilizing computing strategies to fight them. FNTS is providing Folding@home with high-performing operating systems and cloud services that will augment the computing resources of volunteers who have donated computing power.

Developers Mike Moylan and Brian McKenna celebrated the grand opening of art-jazz club The Jewell on Feb. 6. The club, named in honor of north Omaha music promoter Jimmy Jewell, Jr., aims to pay homage to north Omaha’s jazz history and to make Omaha a regular stop for nationally-known jazz artists.

The Jewell will offer two shows nightly at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

Gary Green, Alliance Baseball LLC chief executive officer and managing owner of the Omaha Storm Chasers, was awarded the M. Anthony Fisher Humanitarian Award at the 39th Annual Thurman Munson Awards Dinner. The award recognizes leadership in business and philanthropy. Green has been managing owner of the Omaha Storm Chasers since Alliance Baseball LLC purchased the organization in 2012, the ownership group’s second club after the Double-A Richmond Flying Squirrels. Alliance Baseball also purchased the baseball publication Baseball America in 2017, in addition to the Double-A Montgomery Biscuits.

Health care notes…

The National Pancreas Foundation has recognized Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center as an approved Pancreatic Cancer Center. An NPF Pancreatic Cancer Center designation is awarded after a rigorous audit review to determine that an institution’s focus is on multidisciplinary treatment of pancreatic cancer, treating the “whole patient” with a focus on the best possible outcomes and an improved quality of life. The NPF criteria includes having an expert physician in specialties such as pancreatic surgery, medical oncologists, gastroenterologists and interventional radiologists along with more patient-focused programs like pain management service and psychosocial support.

RTG Medical, a veteran-owned health care staffing agency, has added five new hires: Kati Fletcher, Nathel Newby, Jr., Andrew Miszuk, Travis Sasse, and Marc Roode. Fletcher is a former health care recruiting housing coordinator and a Metropolitan Community College graduate. Newby is a retired Marine with a background in inventory distribution, training, and quality assurance. Miszuk has worked as a painter and rental maintenance worker. Sasse Continued on next page.

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 •

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REGIONAL LANDSCAPES Continued from preceding page. brings six years of experience to the recruiting team. Roode is from Fairbury, Nebraska.

Education notes…

Bellevue University and EducationQuest are hosting a free FAFSA Completion Workshop on Feb. 28. The workshop, which includes dinner, will be held as an open house between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. The event will take place in the Educational Services Building on the Bellevue University campus. Pre-registration for the event is required online by Feb. 22. Attendees are encouraged to fill out an EducationQuest checklist prior to attending the workshop. Professionals from EducationQuest Foundation will help students with their 2019-2020 FAFSA. Representatives from the University Scholarships & Grants team will also be available to provide information and answer questions.

The winners of the 19th African-American History Challenge were Beveridge Magnet Middle School in the junior division and Northwest High Magnet School in the senior division. The national competition will be held at the 100 Black Men of America Annual Conference in Las Vegas. Morton Middle School and Monroe Middle School earned second and third place in the junior division. Central High School and Benson High School earned second and third place in the senior division. This education reading program is used to enhance the study of African-American history and culture among middle and high school students.

College of Saint Mary’s occupational therapy program will now offer a degree at the doctoral level. CSM will transition to offering an Occupational Therapy Doctorate program in August. This will be CSM’s second doctoral program. The new doctoral degree focuses

on the development of clinical practice skills, research skills, administration, leadership, advocacy, and policy development. As part of the program, students complete two 12-week fieldwork experiences along with a 14-week doctoral experiential component that culminates in a scholarly project. The university has submitted a candidacy application to the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education and the American Occupational Therapy Association.

The University of Nebraska Medical Center leads the nation in four-year public institutions with the highest five-year repayment rates of student loans by Pell Grant recipients, according to a recent list compiled by the Chronicle of Higher Education. In fact, 90.2 percent of UNMC Pell Grant recipients in UNMC’s bachelor’s-level programs have paid into the principal of their student loans after five years. The University of Nebraska’s Collegebound Nebraska program guarantees Nebraska-resident Pell Grant recipient’s full tuition costs in grants and aid.

The Nebraska Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers has awarded College of Saint Mary student Susan Reay with the 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award. Reay is the assistant practicum coordinator at the Grace Abbott School of Social Work at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. She is also the training and technical assistance coordinator for the Nebraska System of Care and serves on several boards, including participating as the chair of the Nebraska Board of Mental Health Practice.

Reay represents the State of Nebraska at the National Association of Social Workers board meetings and is the Nebraska voting member on issues of social work model practice, regulation and licensure.

MEETINGS AND SEMINARS Tuesday, Feb. 26 Nebraska Public Relations Society of America is hosting its February Luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Anthony’s Steakhouse. Members of the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s PRSSA chapter will present their entry into the annual Bateman Case Study Competition. This year’s challenge revolves around diversity in public relations.

They will present findings of current awareness levels of diversity and inclusion issues at UNO and within Omaha. A portion of their campaign will be devoted to promoting the book “Diverse Voices: Profiles in Leadership.” Diverse Voices is the latest initiative of the PRSA Foundation to help advance, attract and retain young adults entering the communications profession.

Wednesday, Feb. 27 The Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce is hosting a luncheon for an update on the Blueprint of Nebraska from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Bellevue Firefighters Hall. The project began in the spring of 2018 with a goal of creating an actionable plan that transforms Nebraska. Registration is available online.

The AIM Interface Web School will host a Foundation of Web Development class. This course takes participants from zero-knowledge of how a web page is implemented to being able to code their own site using HTML, CSS and JavaScript/jQuery.

The class will run until May 6 with classes every Monday and Wednesday from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Applications are available online.

Thursday, Feb. 28 The National Safety Council, Nebraska will host the February Safe at Work Breakfast from 7:20 a.m. to 9 a.m. at the Holiday Day Inn at 3650 S. 72nd Street. Jeff Funke, area director for the Omaha office of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration will be discussing the causes of fatalities in region seven and provide examples of fatalities/injuries and review which OSHA standards are applied and why. Registration is available online.

Friday, March 1 The Nonprofit Association of the Midlands is hosting another Federal Tax Law Changes workshop starting at 9 a.m.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that became effective on January 1, 2018 created significant tax law changes that affect tax-exempt organizations. The IRS has not yet provided much guidance on many facets of these new changes. Workshop presenters are Brandon Dickerson of Like Meyer Hatch LLC and Lorraine Egger of KPMG. Registration is available online.

The Omaha Jaycees are hosting a Tax Education Luncheon at the Scott Conference Center. With all of the uncertainly circling the new tax code, it’s a great opportunity to have a Q&A with one of Omaha’s most respected tax and accounting experts, Dr. Thomas J. Purcell, chair of the Department of Accounting at Creighton University. Lunch will be provided and the event will run 90 minutes or so, starting at 11:30 a.m. Tickets are available online.

College of Saint Mary is one 25 Council of Independent Colleges member institutions selected to participate in the second annual Diversity, Civility, and the Liberal Arts Institute, to be held in Atlanta on June 2–5. CSM will send a team of two faculty leaders and two senior administrators. Each participating college also will develop plans to incorporate the institute content into specific courses, advising and counseling services, and co-curricular activities at their institutions.

Activities of nonprofits…

Midlands Community Foundation’s 2019 Reflection Ball raised more than $143,000 with the help of 450 guests. Net proceeds from the event will support the needs of nonprofit organizations that provide programs and services to children in Sarpy and Cass counties in the areas of art, community, economic development, education, health and human services. At the event, the 2019 Reflection Award was presented to Terri and Tim Burke for their dedication to community service and their countless hours of volunteerism.

Hy-Vee, Inc. launched a campaign called “Feed the Need” to help replenish local food banks across its eight-state region. Starting Feb. 1, Hy-Vee will hold a “Feed the Need” campaign at all of its Hy-Vee stores to help replenish local food banks. Customers can participate by simply “rounding up” their purchases to the next dollar — or a desired dollar amount — at the checkout. Hy-Vee will then match customer donations, up to $100,000, to help restock food banks. The money raised at Hy-Vee stores will assist local food banks in their area.

Verizon made a $10,000 investment to the First Responders Foundation that will help expand and grow the foundation, serving more first responders. Based in Omaha, the First Responder Foundation partners directly with police and fire departments to serve and honor first responders and their families, build appreciation and respect for their work and enhance public safety. The First Responder Foundation provides support to police and fire departments by helping provide tools to help them save lives. Recognizing the stress and trauma associated with being a first responder, the Foundation is expanding services to include programs that focus on mental, emotional and physical health.

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is partnering with World Gorilla Day for Gorillas on the Line ... Answer the Call, a cell phone recycling campaign beginning on February 1 through April 30. For gorilla conservation, guests will have the option to leave old mobile phones, iPads, iPods, cameras and chargers in secure locations for recycling. With taking the small step of recycling old electronics, the public can help protect gorilla habitat in Africa by reducing the need for coltan. Coltan is a rare mineral compound used in cell phones and other small electronics to increase their speed and battery life.

United Way of the Midlands has been awarded a grant of $250,000 from Peter Kiewit Foundation. The grant will support the basic needs investment area of UWM’s Community Care Fund. Through the Community Care Fund, UWM funds 110 programs that work together to provide basic needs, education and financial stability supports to those in need. In the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area, more than 104,000 people are living in poverty. An additional 308,000 metro area residents, over one-third of the total population, are struggling to make ends meet.

Arts and Events…

The Kitchen Council is hosting An Evening with Autumn Pruitt on Feb. 27 from 6 p.m. to 9 pm. at the Kitchen Council. Pruitt, baker-turned-entrepreneur and owner of Hardy Coffee Co., will share the 10-year evolution of her organization. Pruitt and her husband, Luke, currently own and operate three brick and mortar locations that consist of bakery, coffee house, roasting and wholesale. Most recently, they brought all layers of the business under one unified brand. Tickets are limited and available online.

In collaboration with Omaha employer Applied Underwriters, KANEKO will present a creative discussion with nationally famed scholar, Steve Everett, and internationally celebrated Steinway musician, Stefano Miceli, as part of the Great Minds Series on Feb. 28th from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at KANEKO. Everett and Miceli will uncover the impact of sound on the human experience through a concert duet of words, images, and instrumental accompaniment. Admission to this event is $15 general admission & $10 for KANEKO members.

The Omaha Municipal Land Bank and Restoration Exchange Omaha are hosting Coffee with Contractors and Funders on March 1 from 9 a.m. to noon at Metropolitan Community College’s Fort Omaha Campus.

The event is for those who are interested in purchasing and restoring an underutilized property, but are unsure where to start or for contractors or funders who want to meet some potential new clients. This event is a part of Restoration Exchange Omaha’s 2019 Restore Nebraska Conference. While there is admission for the remainder of the conference, the event is free and open to the public.

The 12th annual Heat the Streets Run & Walk for Warmth fundraiser event will take place March 2. This year the race has moved to Stinson Park at Aksarben Village. This timed 5K race and family-friendly one-mile walk help those in our community who are struggling to pay utility bills. The event benefits the Common Fund of the Heartland, a 501(c)3 created to provide utility assistance to those in need.

The run starts at 9 a.m., followed by the walk.

Online registration is available through Feb. 26. Children under 12 may participate for free, with a registered adult.

The President and CEO of the Historic Savannah Foundation Daniel Carey will be the keynote speaker at the March 1-2 Restore Nebraska Conference. The conference will be held at the Metropolitan Community College Fort Omaha campus. Carey has led the Historic Savannah Foundation since 2008 where he continues the nationally recognized Revolving Fund. The conference unites home owners, restoration experts, preservation lovers, government officials, and others in an interactive and educational forum, focused on preserving, restoring and renovating older properties. Additional details and tickets are available online.

The Omaha Storm Chasers will host the sixth annual free Taste, Tour & Tickets event at Werner Park on March 2 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. The Storm Chasers will partner with the American Red Cross for a blood drive at the ballpark at 10 a.m. Those who donate will receive a voucher good for two Baseline Box tickets to a 2019 Storm Chasers contest.

For $5 fans will have the chance to taste new ballpark concession items. Attendees can tour new additions to Werner Park. All fans will also have the opportunity to purchase Baseline Box tickets to Opening Day for $5.

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• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal

Options for disaster recovery services

by Lee Nelson

No one wants to think about a disaster when it comes to their business, but a variety of disaster recovery services are available to give business leaders peace of mind.

“In general, most companies are getting away from manual or physical backups and moving to some form of offsite, managed backup solutions,” said Steve Johnson, CEO of InfiNet Solutions. “There are different solutions that will vary in reliability and how fast your infrastructure can be back up and running. This has been way nicer than 10-15 years ago when disaster would take you completely down for at least 24 hours and be costly for recreating a working environment.”

InfiNet offers full backup and disaster recovery solutions protecting clients from minor disasters to major disasters such as fire or tornado, he said.

“The solution offers onsite and offsite replication,” Johnson said. “This will allow for easy data recovery while also providing the ability to spin up an environment in the

Barry plays instrumental role Continued from page 5. college, everybody sits at the same table. We might have some debates but at the end of the day we all know the end goal and we’re working together.”

Despite the momentum the MCC program has generated, Barry is quick to point out the barriers that exist for students looking to enter the trades — primarily those of perception — are hard to overcome.

“Rebranding of the industry is a fight we have to fight every single day,” he said. “As soon as we think we’ve done a good job, we walk into another meeting and they’re telling us again about how plumbing is a dirty job and you don’t want to go into construction because your knees will be shot by the time you’re 40. That’s just not the case.

“It’s still an uphill battle but I think we’re close to the tipping point where in high school it’s no longer university or bust.

Now it’s career readiness or bust and some of that has been driven by parents being knowledgeable about the student debt crisis that we have in this country. They’re really taking a look and saying ‘Is my kid really prepared to go to a four-year university or do they even want to do that? Where is my kid’s passion and how can they best get there?’”

After receiving his undergraduate degree in construction management and political science from UNK in 2004, Barry earned an MBA from MidAmerica Nazarene University in 2007 and his Ph.D. in Engineering: Construction from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2011.

Johnson Koopmans cloud in the event of a larger disaster.”

Dave Koopmans, solutions engineering manager at Scantron Technology Solutions, said the company offers a full image cloud backup allowing them to restore an entire system, not just the data files.

“Our most complete solution, Cloud Recovery Service, provides a backup appliance onsite that enables immediate restores,” he said. “The application can fall over to a virtual service either on the appliance or in the cloud. This allows for recovery in minutes rather than hours or a day.”

In order to have an effective disaster recovery plan, businesses first have to know what downtime looks like in terms of cost, lost business, lost customers and liability, he said.

Vilim Hatting “Of course, this varies widely depending on the business type,” he said. “The starting point to creating a sound DR strategy is outside the building,” he said. “Unless you have an IT team of heavy hitters, you owe it to your company to get a fresh set of expert eyes on your total IT environment as well as on your short- and long-term business roadmap.”

Chris Vilim, president of CoreTech, said when disaster strikes, the costs will be significant and come from numerous directions.

“A disaster recovery plan is about more than just getting your IT back up and running,” he said. “There are even larger costs to consider such as staff productivity loss, lost revenue, damage to your company’s reputation and potential lost clients.”

The actual IT part of a business continuity and disaster recovery plan is a relatively small port of the whole, he said.

“There is a lot that needs to be decided in advance regarding business interruptions and workflow continuity,” Vilim said. “Let’s say your business generates a calling-tree list for notifying IT, your attorney, accounting and more, but you don’t have printed copies available for when disaster strikes. How are you going to get to the information you need when you’re stuck with an infected or damaged system?”

Matt Hatting, technology sales manager at BerganKDV, said the company offers various levels of recovery services from basic file recovery to business continuity.

Other options include forensic data recovery, incident response plans and services that have a company’s environment ready to bring onsite for use.

“I think the first step is understanding how much data you can lose and how much time you can lose in your business,” he said. “The future of your business could depend on a good plan. Find a good partner to work through this and make sure you have the security blanket of a good continuity plan.”

A disaster can be anything from hacking to tornadoes to a pipe bursting to employee theft, he said.

“It goes on and on,” Hatting said. “The risks are everywhere.”

Technology streamlines health care into the virtual world

by Jasmine Heimgartner

The way people access the health care they need is being reshaped by technological advances. At a time when there is a large portion of the population aging and a potential shortage of providers, as well as a reliance on electronics to simplify all aspects of life, maximizing time and efficiency while still providing optimal care at an affordable price is essential.

“Increased access through technology, whether email, voice, text or through their Gorman patient portal, is simply a means to an end for providing our patients more choices in how they wish to interact with and further deepen their relationships with our providers and care teams,” said John Gorman, director of information technology at Think Whole Person Healthcare. “Technology also enables our care teams to proactively reach their patients on a more frequent and consistent basis, which ensures their health care needs are being met.”

Under the umbrella of telemedicine,

such as virtual health care, the transformation of how care is provided and communicated is creating a new era in which health care is on an individual’s timeframe.

“People are looking at affordable health care options that are innovative, economical and relevant,” said Mark Schlange, owner and president of Marketplace Nebraska. “Telemedicine gives people access to a doctor 24/7 to talk about symptoms.

It’s part of the solution of where health care is going. People want something they Schlange can experience and benefit from on their day-to-day care needs.”

The concept of virtual health care at its basic level is harnessing technology — video, mobile apps, messaging, sensors, etc.

— to provide health care services whenever and wherever in real time. This could mean video conferencing or using a video app on a smartphone to consult with a non-local specialist. Some providers have apps that allow patients to input symptoms and images. This gives them a better understanding of their situation instead of relying on questionable internet searches or making a long trek and waiting on answers that could have been addressed with a discussion instead of a physical visit.

Most of the technology available is for ongoing or common illnesses and questions that don’t necessarily require an in-person exam, such as bladder infections, acne, certain rashes, refills or medication questions.

Patients can get the expert help they need without having to make an appointment, drive to the office and wait for their turn. On the flip side, virtual options allow providers

to better allocate time to urgent or serious health situations.

Technology also has streamlined physical appointments, providing a better understanding of all aspects of a person’s health care. Data collection continues to be one of the most time-consuming elements of health care. The ability to provide patient information, symptoms, family medical history and other concerns prior to a visit gives a doctor time to review the information before the visit even happens.

“IT also plays a large part in the patient experience when it comes to the distribution of information,” Gorman said. “For example, we do labs just before a doctor’s visit and have the results posted through the electronic health record to the doctor for that visit. Having all providers and health care professionals using the same electronic health record means a patient’s care is genuinely integrated, so even if they visit our urgent care, ThinkQuick, out of hours, the providers there have access to all their information.”

For patients with ongoing health issues, especially those outside of a city, the ability to monitor issues from afar, such as diabetes or hypertension, can help keep people out of the hospital or from making numerous time-consuming trips. Technologies continue to evolve that include wearable sensors or biometric devices with analytics that automatically track and analyze certain long-term conditions.

“The future of health care for the consumer is going to be more active, just like when they shop for a car, house or clothes,” Schlange said. “There are more and more tools out there that will tell you the true cost of medical services. People can kind of shop around to be more informed consumers and reduce out-of-pocket costs for medical care.”

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 •

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Midwest Right of Way Services leverages relocation expertise Continued from page 1. impact on the community when we deal with difficult negotiations.”

Husband-wife team John M. “Jack” and Laura Borgmeyer started the business based out of 13425 A St. in Omaha in 2000 after identifying a need for independent Right of Way (ROW) service for public and private sector clients. Comprehensive solutions include appraisal, reviews, audit compliance, and consulting on projects ranging from roads and airports to pipeline, transmission line and conservation/environmental mitigation.

“I describe what we do as the real estate side of an engineering project,” said Laura

Borgmeyer. “People often never give thought to that aspect of big engineering projects, like an airport expansion or the widening of 144th Street — unless they’re affected by it.”

With 30-plus years of real estate and ROW experience, Jack Borgmeyer said agents are trained to read and explain exactly how plans will impact stakeholders and to answer questions they may have.

He said most of the time engineers do a really good job as it relates to impacting private property.

Most agents have “numerous designations,” the firm is active in the International Right Way of Association

and he, too, emphasized its leadership in relocation assistance.

“Those are the projects that displace people from their homes and businesses,” he said. “It’s a very labor-intensive task, very expensive to do, and also mandated by the federal government for projects that involve federal aid.”

Midwest Right of Way Services has done relocations in markets such as Texas and Las Vegas.

“We know people there that are willing to pay the freight to get it done,” he said.

“Generally, we don’t go that far for that work. But John has done a lot more with

Continued from page 1. ment, how to get employees more engaged 1979 University of Nebraska at Omaha on retiring on their own terms,” Smith said.

The educational curve toward health graduate who is marking his 40th year in the business, said positioning the savings accounts continues to offer chal17,000-square-foot office at 13710 FNB lenges and more costs are being shifted to Parkway, Suite 400, for growth of 15 the employee. Automatic enrollment and planned escalators to 18 percent this are more frequent. year has been a fore- Lockton Cos. - Nebraska Smith said for a most priority as he Phone: 402-970-6100 large manufacturseeks to strengthen Address: 13710 FNB Parkway, Suite 400, ing company client Lockton-Nebraska’s Omaha 68154 in the Omaha area b e n c h e x p e r t i s e . Services: insurance, risk management, Lockton’s campaign The new group, he employee benefits and retirement plans to increase participasaid, is indicative of Founded: 1966 in Kansas City, Mo.; tion resulted in a 30 initiatives by many Nebraska office opened in 2011. percent increase in industry executives Employees: 50 in Omaha; 7,500 worldthose enrolled. to build leadership wide.

Demographics, skills in younger tal- Goal for 2019: Grow Nebraska revenues when analyzed, tell ent as current leaders by 15-18 percent. coverage professionapproach retirement Industry outlook: Property casualty market is tightening due to stock market als that millennials age.

— as a generation “I’m continually volatility.

— are the best savamazed at the bench Website: www.lockton.com ers when compared strength that we’re assembling,” Struyk said. “By being a to prior generations. Their mobility has privately-held company, when we see shortened the average job tenure to 2.5 opportunity we can evaluate the need and years and when they leave an employer they will frequently leave their 401(k) fill that niche quickly.”

Struyk is one of 57 shareholders of money in the plan.

For Cody Beguin, a producer and vice the firm.

The nimbleness in the staffing deci- president with specialties in property/ sion-making — whether a hire is stationed casualty coverage and employee benefits, in Omaha or in Kansas City, New York perhaps the biggest differentiating factor City or perhaps even London — enables at Lockton is the firm’s “specialties within Lockton Cos., with 95 offices and more industry verticals” which have provided than 7,500 employees worldwide, to move the growth map for the increased staffing quickly, when for example, about six years in Omaha.

The Rushville native has an underago when cyber liability issues arose with graduate degree from Chadron State and a clients seeking advice and coverage.

“What emerges is coverage more ap- Master of Social Work degree from UNO. He cites the six agri-business spepropriate to a client and driven by better cialists that serve Nebraska clients, three terms and price,” he said.

Lockton’s client retention rate over producers that specialize in the needs of the past two years has increased from 95 restaurants and staffing companies, and the to 96 percent — a figure Struyk said is hiked interests being applied to health care.

“It’s the experience of our team that about 10 percent over the industry average.

When tough decisions have to be made, the separates us,” Beguin said. “Cyber secucompany invests in the local people facing rity and management liability has become a big topic.” clients and less on corporate staff.

That has been important in work beHe cites the hiring last year of Jason M. Smith as lead consultant and vice president ing done for a large Nebraska ag-sector of retirement services. Smith, a McCook corporation.

“We took over their property and casunative and 1995 University of Nebraska-Lincoln international affairs and busi- alty program and enhanced their coverage ness administration graduate, said his 25 greatly — especially on cyber liability,” he years of industry experience has enabled said. “Their coverage terms improved and him to see the 401(k) start as an add-on we provided better coverage and rates.”

Colleen Block, who was born in Sioux and over a couple of decades become the Falls, but was raised in Omaha and atprimary tool of retirement saving.

“Now we’re looking at the forensics tended UNO, said the data analytics and of the plan, the true cost of delayed retire- Lockton’s new data collection and storage

system is giving the firm a cutting-edge advantage.

“We’re taking data from employee census, health insurance and pharmacy claims, workers compensation and coming up with integrated risk solutions,” the new assistant vice president said.

For example, Lockton had a Nebraska food industry client with significant workers’ compensation and diabetes-related claims. The Lockton strategy involved putting in an education program with regular follow-up to make sure patients were following through on care responsibilities.

InfoLock, a program developed by Lockton more than 10 years ago, enables a patient’s chronic conditions to be identified along with suggested preventive treatment that in the long run can help lower costs.

Lockton has three Omaha-based nurses on staff.

Kirt V. McAlpine, a Carroll, Iowa native with a business degree from the University of South Dakota and an MBA from Creighton University, is a producer and vice president of property and casualty benefits.

“Private equity is making a bigger impact on more businesses today,” he said. “With so much capital available for acquisitions we’re being asked to work at the faster speeds at which clients are being acquired in completing insurance, employee benefits and compliance diligence before the acquisition.”

McAlpine said the talent available locally as well as Lockton’s national resources at its Kansas City headquarters were important in work done for a Nebraska freight transportation broker.

“The challenge for us is to fully understand and address trends such as those in employee benefits,” said Brad J. Smith, who joined Lockton three weeks ago.

The Nebraska native and ’89 Peru State College graduate said the impact of hospitals with ownership interest in pharmacies has had a dramatic impact on the marketplace.

“The challenge is to find a cost-saving solution for our client,” he said.

A Lockton tool is an in-house auditor, formerly with the Department of Labor, who does mock audits for clients.

Lockton-Nebraska’s revenues grew by 10 percent in 2018.

“With the added expertise we’ve brought in and with the overall strength of our bench we expect additional growth this year,” Struyk said.

Lockton expands with new staff and retirement plans

relocation than I did over the years, and we expect to build that even more.”

The team walks a fine line of federal regulations and respecting displacees.

“You have to be compassionate to the displacees and responsible to the taxpayer,”

Midwest Right of Way Services Inc. Phone: 402-955-2900 Address: 13425 A St., Omaha 68144 Services: comprehensive right of way solutions including acquisition, relocation assistance, title services, appraisals and reviews, audit compliance and consulting for federal, state, county and municipal governments; and utility and energy companies.

Founded: 2000 by Jack and Laura Borgmeyer Website: www.midwestrow.com

John Borgmeyer said. “We have a proven track record of successfully handling those projects with positive outcomes. People are going to be upset when they’re displaced from their homes. We make it as seamless as possible, and that’s a long, somewhat difficult road that can be very controversial.”

Jack Borgmeyer noted relocation business can flow from its myriad acquisition projects. “[Clients] don’t realize they also need to offer relocation,” he said. “Sometimes they don’t know until the appraisals are done.”

Depending on the damage that may be incurred, one may be better off “buying someone out entirely.”

“Circumstances can change and everybody has to be able to adapt as they’re going through a project,” he said.

John Borgmeyer, who joined the firm in 2014, is also working on how to best leverage technology that is changing the industry to benefit clients; for instance, the Borgmeyers mentioned how GIS/GPS has transformed how plans are read and interpreted (requiring skills adaptation).

The co-founder said he will advise John on an as-needed basis.

“I’ll be here to help out if we’re busy or if we’re on a little bit of a reduced time,” he said.

Laura Borgmeyer will also remain active in operations for the business, which also includes input from son, Chris, who works at a real estate-related firm in Chicago.

John Borgmeyer noted their ability to work together well as a family team goes back to the listening at the heart of what they do as a firm.

“One of the most important things when we work on negotiations is to think about what we say before we react,” he said.

It’s a philosophy Jack Borgmeyer describes to new agents as: “You have two ears and one mouth. Listen at least twice as much as you talk.”

Laura Borgmeyer also said they respect each other’s “specialty area,” as they each handle slightly different aspects of the business.

“Too much togetherness is not always a good thing,” she added. “But we take a lot of pride that we’ve been able to develop a business over 20 years where we can include John … To share that as a family has been very rewarding. It’s a unique situation that a lot of people don’t get to experience.”

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• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal

California’s ‘dry farmers’ grow crops without irrigation

by Priyanka Runwal

Jim Leap fondly recalls the first Early Girl tomatoes he grew at UC Santa Cruz’s farm in 1990. Sweet and bursting with flavor, they were raised without a single drop of irrigated water.

Nearly three decades later, he remains deeply committed to “dry farming” — forsaking modern irrigation and relying on seasonal rainfall to grow tomatoes, winter squash, potatoes, dry beans and corn on the 4-acre San Juan Bautista farm that Leap and his wife, Polly Goldman, have owned for eight years.

“What motivated us to dry farm was the environmental ethic,” Goldman said. “We are not using city water or groundwater.”

As California gets Agriculture hotter and drier because of climate change, Leap, Goldman and other members of this small but brave band of farmers predict that dry farming and other water-sparing techniques will become more popular in the Golden State.

While unfamiliar to many consumers, dry farming is an age-old practice that entails carefully managing soils to lock winter rainfall into the top layers until it’s time to begin growing crops during the spring and summer.

As little as 20 inches of rain — roughly the same amount that the Central Coast receives each winter on average — can sustain crops in the months without rainfall, with no need to add any extra water.

The strategy has been used for generations by grape and olive growers in Mediterranean countries such as Italy and Spain. It was also common in coastal California through most of the 19th and early 20th centuries.

But practices changed as farmers got better at extracting water from under the ground.

Yields boomed, and our food supply became more reliable. And so did our reliance on groundwater.

Today, many of the state’s water basins — particularly in the Central Valley, the state’s agricultural hub — are so overdrawn that they’re unable to replenish themselves.

California’s 2014 Sustainable Groundwater Management Act is aimed at ensuring that local and regional agencies better manage the amount of water pumped from wells. This means that groundwater supplies in the future are likely to be limited for farmers, who account for about 80 percent of California’s water consumption.

And scientists predict that intense and frequent droughts caused by global warming will likely tighten water supplies further.

In some parts of California, growers such as Stan Devoto already see dry farming as a necessity.

“It is the way we have to farm in western Sonoma County if we’re going to grow apples,” said Devoto, a dry farmer who owns a 25-acre apple orchard in Sebastopol.

“I can literally count on one hand the growers that have adequate water to irrigate the orchards,” he said of the area, where farmers have long dealt with declining water levels and salt water creeping into freshwater basins.

Not for everyone But not everyone can dry farm, and not all crops can be dry farmed. It works best in certain climates and soil types.

The best-suited regions are those with clayey subsoil that experience morning fog and mild summer afternoons, with temperatures that rarely exceed 90 degrees.

“In the Central Valley, it’s really challenging,” said Rachel Long, a farm adviser at the University of California Cooperative Extension. “It doesn’t rain enough, and the temperatures are in the 90s and 100s.”

Also, fewer plants can be grown per acre, making dry farming less lucrative than conventional farming.

“It’s tricky and takes a lot of experience,” said Leap, 63.

The growing season for Leap and his wife usually starts in October, when they plant a mix of legumes, vegetables and cereal crops. If the rains don’t arrive, the couple has to wait until later in the fall.

Over the winter, these “cover crops” will flourish and mature. As they grow, the crops’ roots acquire nutrients from the soil. And any weeds that try to establish themselves will get shaded out by the thick canopy formed by these crops.

In March, as the rains ease, Leap will mow the green leafy matter and let it enrich the soil.

In early April, he will till the topsoil, creating mulch that will lock in the soil moisture.

“You can almost think of it as though you’ve laid out a plastic tarp on the soil,” Leap said. The water that gets trapped, he said, will support the vegetables grown in the summer.

As the summer progresses, however, plant roots must go deeper and wider to meet their water needs. That means dry-farmed tomato plants must be spaced much further apart, reducing the total number of plants from 5,400 an acre with irrigation to 1,210 per acre when dry farmed, Leap said.

The upside is that the water savings are substantial. At UC Santa Cruz’s farm, every acre of dry-farmed tomatoes saves an acre-foot of water — enough to flood three-quarters of a football field one foot deep.

And dry-farmed tomatoes, apples, grapes and almonds also have more character, according to supporters of the practice. They say that unlike irrigated fruits with diluted flavor profiles, dry-farmed fruits are smaller and have a dense, concentrated flavor.

A triple-win situation Paul Cocking, owner of the Gabriella Cafe in Santa Cruz, uses dry-farmed tomatoes as much as he can at his restaurant. “The tomatoes have better flavor, and they are better for the soil and better for the environment,” he said. “It’s a triple-win situation.”

But because yields are lower, the prices are higher. A consumer must be willing to pay at least 30 percent more for a pound of dry-farmed tomatoes.

“That’s the only way to make it profitable,” Leap said.

Mark Bartle, who has been growing dryfarmed tomatoes on his 19-acre Two Dog Farm near Davenport since 2001, said he has no trouble selling them.

He sells 60 percent of his Early Girl tomatoes at farmers’ markets and three independent grocery stores in San Francisco, as well as at the Whole Foods and New Leaf stores in Santa Cruz.

“There is a big demand,” he said.

The New Leaf store on the west side of Santa Cruz sells an average of 1,000 pounds of dry-farmed tomatoes each week from August to November, when the tomatoes are in season, Bartle said.

“We sell dry-farmed tomatoes more than any other kind when they are available,” said Bartle, who also works part-time in the produce department at the store.

Less than 1 percent Still, Leap and Bartle acknowledge that dryfarmed fruits and vegetables are niche crops.

Indeed, agricultural experts estimate that dry farming is practiced at less than 1 percent of California’s 77,000 farms.

Jay Lund, director of UC Davis’ Center for Watershed Sciences, is more blunt.

“Dry farming for most of the state will be a recipe for royal poverty,” he said. “The reason people don’t do as much dry farming is you don’t make enough money.”

There’s also the unpredictability: Without irrigation, crops are at the mercy of variations in seasonal rainfall. In 2014, when San Juan Bautista barely got 10 inches of rain, Leap resorted to a hybrid form of dry farming. He irrigated his winter cover crops, but his spring and summer vegetables were still produced without water.

“Usually you get people dry farming when they don’t have access to irrigated water,” said David Runsten, policy director at the Davis-based California Agricultural Water Stewardship Initiative, which aims to raise awareness about approaches to water conservation techniques.

But as Devoto and his fellow growers in western Sonoma County and other parts of an increasingly thirsty state have found out, sometimes there’s just no choice.

“If you don’t have the water,” Runsten said, “then it becomes more appealing.” ©2019 Santa Cruz Sentinel (Scotts Valley, Calif.)

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Securing capital just the beginning of starting business Continued from page 4. appetite for risk.”

For those with a dream of creating a startup but who don’t have a lot of capital, there is help. Midlands Latino Community Development Corp. (MLCDC) offers funds for low-income individuals who live in urban and rural areas, primarily located in Douglas, Dodge, Sarpy, Pottawattamie and Lancaster counties, said Marta Sonia Londoño Mejia, executive director.

“Micro-lending extends small Londoño Mejia loans to people who don’t currently have access to capital,” she said. “Micro-loan systems help a low-income person to become financially independent, which helps them become more resilient and better able to provide for their families in times of economic difficulty.”

MLCDC offers different loan products

including HELP-Self Lending for very small businesses that need small amounts of credit — $1,000 to $25,000. Interest rates range from 7.5 to 10 percent depending on loan risks, type and value of collateral, and credit history with the corporation.

Loan terms range from six months to three years.

There are also direct loans up to $50,000 for microbusinesses of five or fewer employees. It can be used for working capital, inventory, materials, furniture, equipment and more.

Kohl Interest rates range from 6.5 to 10 percent, Mejia said.

In 2020, MLCDC is planning to offer to the community direct loans of $50,000 to $100,000 for small business of six or more employees, she said.

“The comprehensive educational training approach provided by MLCDC supports the creation of low income and minori-

ty-owned businesses, that, in turn, create new employment opportunities,” she said.

Cassie Kohl, director of enterprise banking at First National Bank, said with the popularity of television shows such as “Shark Tank,” there has been a rise in the number of startup loans within the past decade.

“Unfortunately, there hasn’t been the same increase in financing options for startups in the traditional bank model,” she said.

“Non-traditional banks are where the real rise in startup financing has occurred. For instance, there are several funding websites out there that can approve you online for small business loans.”

They have more lenient underwriting terms than a traditional bank and generally require less upfront information, Kohl said.

“Obtaining a loan for a new business is more difficult than financing an existing business,” she said. “There is no history to support the claim that the potential customer will be successful. For these reasons, many entrepreneurs choose to purchase an existing business rather than starting one from scratch.”

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 •

11

San Diego neuroscientist says brain-buzzing device causes weight loss

by Brittany Meiling

A San Diego entrepreneur just took first place in a big startup competition put on by all the University of California schools, winning judges over with its brain-manipulating technology wearable device used for weight loss.

Neurovalens makes a headset (worn like headphones) that stimulates a region of the brain tied to appetite. Wearing the device for an hour per day is SUPER CROSSWORD

Answers on page 12.

resulting in a 5 percent reduction in body fat for its users over three to four months, said the company’s founder Jason McKeown, a visiting scholar at UC San Diego.

It sounds like science fiction — or at least a late-night infomercial — right?

Well, the device actually has some interesting science behind it, and the company’s founder is seeking approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat obesity.

“SO THERE!”

Neurovalens competed alongside 150 entrepreneurs across 10 campuses in the annual UC Entrepreneur Pitch Competition. McKeown was the winner of the later-stage category, earning $15,000.

How does it work?

The brain controls weight loss and weight gain by managing appetite, hormones, metabolism and more. That’s why the newest anti-obesity drugs target the brain, rather than older methods like stomach staples and balloons.

The company’s device, called Modius, targets a region of the brain called the hypothalamus, which regulates appetite by picking up messages about fullness and satiation from hormones like leptin and insulin. The brain gleans information from these signals to control hunger.

McKeown, a neuroscientist at UC San Diego’s Center for Brain and Cognition, said the Modius headset stimulates the vestibular nerve through the back of the head, which then sends a message to the hypothalamus to dial down appetite and cravings.

Helping to curb hunger is especially hard for people trying to lose weight, McKeown said, because their brains want to cling to the fat for survival.

“You can lose weight through diet and exercise, but the process is difficult,” McKeown said. “The more you exercise, the hungrier you get. Your hypothalamus makes you want to eat more. The desire increases and increases. People feel like they’re never full, their mood is low, and they have strong drive for sugary foods.”

Modius is meant to help with the painful process of weight loss, not replace a healthy diet and exercise. The goal, McKeown said, is slow and maintainable weight loss. Not overnight success.

Is it legit?

Obviously, Neurovalens has had its fair share of skepticism since launching a public crowdfunding campaign in 2017, in which it raised over $2 million.

After all, the science is very new and the company hasn’t yet earned the FDA’s stamp of approval proving that it works.

And let’s be honest, probing the brain while sitting on the couch seems too good to be true. But McKeown said the company is currently enrolling over 100 patients for a pivotal trial, the last stage of clinical testing before asking the FDA for approval.

The U-T reached out to several unaffiliated experts in weight loss to see what they thought about Neurovalens’ device.

Most declined to comment on the company’s technology, saying they weren’t familiar enough with neurostimulation to offer perspective. But one researcher at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies weighed in: neuroscientist Sung Han, who studies neural circuits underlying brain disorders.

“Yes, there is emerging evidence that hypothalamic appetite neurons can be manipulated by neurostimulation,” he wrote in an email. “We stop eating when our stomach feels full. The stomach uses two ways to send a satiety signal to the brain when it’s full. It secretes satiety

hormones into the bloodstream so the hormone gets into the brain’s satiety center, the hypothalamus. Alternatively, the stomach can directly communicate with the brain via the vagus nerve, which directly connects the stomach and the brain. This company uses a way to hijack and manipulate satiety signals from the gut using a neurostimulation device. The vagus nerve goes up to the brain through our neck, so we can non-invasively manipulate the vagus nerve fiber passages in our neck. Although we still don’t fully understand how it works, preclinical studies shows convincing evidence that vagus nerve stimulation can reduce appetite, relieve depressive symptoms, and even alleviate seizure frequency in some form of epilepsy.”

How long does it take?

McKeown said the company hoped to see 5 percent fat reduction over the course of one year. However, early data collected from Neurovalens’ mobile app suggests people are meeting that goal within four to five months. That data isn’t as trustworthy as clinical data, mind you. Customers log their own information through the app, leaving a margin for error. And there’s no way to know what other factors are influencing their weight loss.

McKeown said the Modius device shouldn’t be pegged as a “quick fix” for weight loss, when anti-obesity drugs try to achieve much faster results. His device, by comparison, is a very slow fix.

“Some weight loss drugs promise people 10 pounds of weight loss in seven days,” McKeown said.

But he said he understands the suspicion people have.

“In the weight loss sector, there’s a healthy degree of skepticism, and that’s a good thing,” McKeown said. “People are always seeking the next quick fix.

But this is the opposite of that. We’re looking for long-term health and a way to manage fat levels over a long period of time.”

While it remains to be seen if Modius works or not, Han said he’s optimistic that this kind of technology could offer an alternative to traditional weight loss drugs. Anti-obesity drugs can cause depression and other unfavorable side effects due to how they manipulate t he brain.

“Due to the side effects, there are currently no tolerable anti-obesity drugs available,” Han said. “Therefore, in my opinion, interrogating the braingut wired system (vagus nerve), instead of a wireless system (satiety hormones) may provide us with a more specific and side-effect-free anti-obesity therapeutic intervention.”

Based on older neurostimulation technology, Modius is considered a safe device and can therefore already be sold in the U.S. and elsewhere. The device costs $500. But remember: just because it’s safe doesn’t mean it’s effective. Waiting to see if an FDA approval comes through might be wise. ©2019 The San Diego Union-Tribune Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

12

• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal

Robot mail delivery trucks developed in Detroit ready for China, US

by Mark Phelan

Looking like a delegation of toasters from space, a generation of electrically powered, self-driving mail trucks will roll out of a suburban Detroit industrial park later this year. Their mission: revolutionize mail and package delivery.

About 2,000 of the boxy, shiny Quadrobot U1 four-wheel-drive, four-wheel-steer delivery vans will begin service with the Chinese postal service late this year delivering packages in technology cities along the populous South Coast.

The startup company aims to have another 30 in trial service delivering goods in downtown Detroit and suburban downtowns including Birmingham and Royal Oak, Mich. Quadrobot CEO and chairman Mike Wang outlined the plans during an interview in the modest Madison Heights building where the company he founded will begin assembling Quadrobots for U.S. service later this year.

A native of Hangzhou, China, Wang came to Detroit to study automotive design

A Quadrobot U1 (Urban 1) autonomous electric concept vehicle at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan on Jan. 14, 2019. (NAIAS/Dreamstime/TNS). at the College for Creative Studies, one industrial design. of the world’s top schools for auto and Detroit’s ‘brand value’

Would you let your auto insurer track your driving habits via your smartphone?

by Ron Hurtibise

The auto insurance arm of travel club AAA wants customers to download a smartphone app and let the company track their driving habits.

The app will rate drivers based on smoothness, speed, distraction, time of day and fatigue by capturing the start and end times of each journey, acceleration rates, and GPS location information, according to the company, which markets insurance in Florida under the name insurAnce Auto Club South Insurance Company.

Highest-rated drivers can earn discounts of up to 30 percent off of their auto insurance premiums, the company says.

AAA says its program, called AAADrive, is one of the first smartphone-based driver monitoring products approved by the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation.

Other major insurers have been rolling out similar programs in recent years.

Progressive, State Farm and Allstate advertise mobile driver tracking apps. Some companies require participants to plug tracking devices into their cars’ diagnostic ports and allow drivers to see the collected data via an app.

AAADrive lets drivers monitor their scores through the app and use the information to improve their habits, the company said.

Parents can also use the app to monitor habits of their teen children, AAA suggests on a frequently-asked-questions page on its website.

A feature in the app will send alerts to parents when “their teen or senior drivers” exceed thresholds set “for when they can drive, where they can drive and how fast they can drive,” it said.

Use of the app requires an iPhone 5S or higher or a GPS-enabled Android smartphone. Location tracking services must be kept on.

Participants wouldn’t have to keep their apps on indefinitely to qualify for discounts, but the largest discounts go to drivers who

score highest while logging large numbers of trips and miles.

Drivers are required to log two journeys and 10 miles with the app to qualify for an initial discount. Upon renewal, AAA will rescind the discount for drivers who have not recorded at least 1,000 miles and 25 journeys.

Drivers with more than one major traffic violation or more than two at-fault accidents are not eligible to participate.

Use of the app is not limited to AAA’s insurance customers. Auto Club members can also use the app for fun or to help improve their driving by downloading the AAA Mobile app and creating a user account.

How many policyholders will find the promise of a premium discount enticing enough to allow AAA to track their driving behavior remains to be seen.

In a statement, the company says 27 percent of policyholders are using the program in all of the states where it’s currently offered. “We have seen very favorable participation among our members and insureds and see a 4 percent month-over-month participation growth,” spokesman Mark Jenkins said in an email.

Yet a 2016 report by the Pew Research Center, based on a national survey and online focus groups, found that 45 percent of respondents considered trading a discount for surveillance of their driving habits “unacceptable.”

Just 37 percent said such a tradeoff would be acceptable while 16 percent said their decision would depend on the circumstances.

Respondents who opposed the idea said they felt uncomfortable letting their insurance company know where they were going. Others worried companies will eventually use tracking data to punish them with higher rates.

Some said they wouldn’t mind participating if insurers tracked only speed and kept destination information private.

AAADrive’s terms and conditions state

that drivers’ information “will remain confidential at all times to (AAA) and vendor partners that support operations” for the program and will not be sold to third parties or shared “in any way unless required by law or regulation.” ©2019 Sun Sentinel (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.) Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

“I was skeptical at first, but I’m all in,” said John Manoogian, a longtime auto industry executive and adjunct professor of auto design at CCS. Manoogian met Wang as a CCS student. He’s now a Quadrobot investor and a board member. Quadrobot is based in the Detroit area and funded by investors in the United States and China.

“Mike showed me his prototype and I realized it was a totally unique vision,” Manoogian said. “The car business is undergoing dramatic change. This has the opportunity to make a big difference.”

Most of the U1’s engineering and all its design took place in southeast Michigan. The U1 has 35 kilowatts of power, about 47 horsepower. That’s enough for a neighborhood delivery vehicle, but 350-kw power is in development for bigger vehicles that could go farther and faster. Wang worked with local engineers to develop the vehicles.

“Detroit has the best reputation in the world for automotive engineering and design,” said Wang, 32, who worked in design and brand strategy at Fiat Chrysler after graduating from CCS. “We wanted the U1 to look like a Detroit vehicle,” Wang said. “There’s a lot of brand value in the city of Detroit.”

‘Last mile’ delivery The U1 is what’s called a “last mile” vehicle, designed to handle delivery in neighborhoods and downtowns. The best comparison is the mail truck your postal carrier uses, but smaller, with electric power and varying amounts of self-driving ability. It’s not a substitute for highway and Continued on next page.

SUPER CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS

Puzzle on page 11.

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 •

13

Spectacular skylines can also be bird killers. Here’s how a proposed Chicago ordinance is trying to help

by Blair Kamin

Glass-sheathed modern buildings make for spectacular skylines, but they’re also bird killers, especially in Chicago.

Each year, thousands of birds die when they smash into large glass windows they can’t see. Lights from skyscrapers can also confuse migrating birds, causing them to circle buildings reAl estAte repeatedly and die from exhaustion.

Legislation introduced in the Chicago City Council by Ald. Brian Hopkins and reintroduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Rep. Mike Quigley, D-Ill., seeks to prevent such deaths by encouraging — and, in some cases, mandating — bird-friendly design.

Proponents say the measures won’t add significantly to construction costs. But the Chicago proposal could face opposition from real estate developers, especially those who rely on glass walls and panoramic views to help sell or rent commercial and residential space.

“I think we’re all interested in doing what we can to protect the birds during their migration season,” said Michael Cornicelli, executive vice president of the Building Owners and Managers Association of Chicago, which represents most downtown commercial buildings. “I think it’s a matter of determining what are the most cost-effective measures to do that.”

Veteran Chicago developer J. Paul Beitler had a more pointed response to the proposed legislation, saying Monday that there’s “a rush to judgment and the assumption that buildings, especially all glass buildings, and birds don’t mix.”

The proposed Bird Friendly Design ordinance, introduced Jan. 23, is backed by a coalition of groups, including the Chicago Audubon Society, that calls itself Bird Friendly Chicago. Chicago architect Jeanne Gang, long a leader in bird-friendly design, is supporting the effort.

“If we keep environmental impact in mind from the start of the design process, we can create buildings that are functional and aesthetically pleasing, and also bird-friendly,” Gang said in a news release issued by the group.

The idea is “stop birds from dying with building collisions in Chicago,” Chicago landscape architect Ted Wolff, a member of Bird Friendly Chicago, said in an interview. The legislation would apply to large-scale new construction and renovated buildings that require permits. It would not apply to detached homes, townhouses, two-flats or residential buildings with up to six units.

One of its measures would mandate that at least 95 percent of a building’s facade, from the ground to a height of 36 feet, not be sheathed in glass or have bird-safe glass with etching, frosting or mounted elements like screens.

Another item in the proposed ordinance would require that nonessential exterior lighting be automatically shut off between 11 p.m. and sunrise. Interior landscaping should “always” be placed behind bird-friendly exterior glass, the proposal says.

Applying the proposed rules to renovations of existing buildings is a potential sticking point, said Cornicelli, from the

Construction at the Milwaukee Bucks' brand new arena on June 26, 2018. The building has been called the world's first bird-friendly sports arena. The arena uses a thin ceramic coating on glass, known as fritting, to signal to birds that the wall should be avoided. (Erin Hooley/Chicago Tribune/TNS) building owners group. Typically, it’s eas“We have a pretty high rate of compliier and less expensive to incorporate such ance,” Cornicelli said. measures into new construction, he said.

The Chicago Aubudon Society managSince 1995, the group has cooperated es the program, which has saved thousands with the Lights Out Chicago program, of birds’ lives and reduced building energy a city-backed initiative that encourages and maintenance costs, according to a city owners and managers of high-rises to website. turn off or dim exterior lights during bird Hopkins did not return a phone call remigration seasons. questing comment on why he’s backing the

proposal, which has been assigned to the City Council’s Health and Environmental Protection Committee.

Other U.S. cities, like San Francisco, already have bird-safety design rules on the books.

Advocates also point to examples like the new Milwaukee Bucks arena, which has been called the world’s first bird-friendly sports arena.

The arena, designed by the global firm Populous, uses a thin ceramic coating on glass, known as fritting, to signal to birds that the glass is a wall to be avoided.

Quigley’s legislation, the Bird-Safe Buildings Act, would apply to public buildings constructed, significantly renovated or bought by the U.S. General Services Administration, the federal government’s landlord.

It would require that these buildings use bird-safe building materials and design features “to the maximum extent possible,” according to a news release.

“By using materials that conceal indoor lighting to the outside, we can dramatically reduce the frequency of birds colliding with glass buildings,” Quigley said in the release.

This is the fifth time Quigley has introduced such legislation, his staff said. The first time was in 2010.

Aides said the bill’s prospects are improved because Democrats now control the House. The bill’s co-sponsor is Rep. Morgan Griffith, a Virginia Republican. ©2019 Chicago Tribune Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Robot mail delivery trucks developed in Detroit ready for China, US Continued from preceding page. intercity delivery vehicles, but rather for delivery from local businesses — and in China, the local post office.

“Last-mile solutions are particularly critical for urban areas, where traffic congestion makes this type of service increasingly time- and labor-intensive,” said Bill Visnic, editorial director of the Society of Automotive Engineers’ Autonomous Vehicle Engineering magazine.

“Last-mile service is expected to be a viable early laboratory for automated vehicles because these trips often will be on defined and easily mapped routes. There’s also potential for increased efficiency from autonomous delivery and ride-hailing, which at least in theory might help to reduce congestion.”

The U1 has a windshield, driver’s seat and controls. At least the first couple of thousand will be driver-operated as Quadrobot gathers data about how they’re used. An autonomous system will oversee the driver, braking if the U1 enters a turn too fast and steering if the driver makes a wrong turn.

‘Like a pet’ A human attendant will handle package pickup and delivery, but the U1 will be able to autonomously trail its operator down a street or around a parking lot while the person delivers multiple packages.

“It’s like a pet following you,” Wang said.

Delivery will be easier to automate in China, where standardized lockers have

replaced individual mailboxes. Wang also foresees using the U1 as a mobile locker for people to drop off objects for pickup.

It could also house vending machines, including food that’s freshly cooked and positioned around town or in neighborhoods for easy meal pickup at the end of the day.

Wang foresees some of those stationary uses taking place while the U1 charges its lithium-ion batteries. Quadrobot is working with a supplier on a fast-charge 300-volt system that could deliver a full charge for a 12-hour delivery shift in 40 minutes or so.

Wang worked on the design and brand strategy of the SRT Viper at FCA after graduating from CCS in 2012. He spent a lot of time at FCA’s low-volume Conner Avenue assembly plant in Detroit. That work influenced U1 development, because FCA relied on suppliers to assemble many of the sports car’s modules, the same system Quadrobot uses.

Hiring begins in 2nd quarter The U1 is modular. The running gear, batteries, electric motors, steering, etc. are packaged in a lower portion that resembles a mattress with wheels. Suppliers will ship those modules to Quadrobot facilities for assembly and attachment to bodies for cargo, vending machines, etc. The modules and body are put together with bolts and glue, making assembly inexpensive and low-cost.

Three assembly facilities in China will employ about 200 people, Wang said. The one planned for Madison Heights should

need about 50 by the end of the year. He expects to begin hiring late in the second quarter. The company will hold a job fair.

You can get information at www.4-bot.com and info@4-bot.com.

The flexible platform lends itself to making other electric vehicles, including a possible SUV, Wang said. He’s working with the Michigan Economic Development Corp and Detroit Economic Growth Corp. on local development and employment. ©2019 Detroit Free Press Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal

Progressives are emulating Trump — and reality is leaking from American life In 1994, the Clinton administration decreed a bright shining future for education. Its Goals 2000 legislation proclaimed that, by that year, the United States’ high school graduation rate would be 90 percent and American students would lead the world in EORGE math and science achievements.

Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan ILL (D-N.Y.) was unimpressed: “That will not happen.” It didn’t, to the surprise of no one with an inkling of reality’s viscosity.

President Bill Clinton’s (then Congress’s) goals, which Moynihan compared to the Soviet Union’s penchant for delusional grain quotas, illustrated what the senator called the “leakage of reality from American life.” Speaking of which: Democrats, including many presidential candidates, have endorsed something that makes Goals 2000 look like the soul of sobriety. The Green New Deal’s FAQ sheet says: In 10 years, America will have only non-carbon renewable energy. (ExxonMobil plans to produce 25 percent more oil and gas in 2025 than in 2017.) By then, “every building in America” will be environmentally retrofitted, “farting cows” (methane gas; say goodbye to hamburgers) will be on the way out, fast electric opinion trains will make airplanes unnecessary, “every combustion-engine vehicle” will be gone. (But relax: Charging stations will be “everywhere.”)

In 1994, the Clinton administration decreed a bright shining future for education. Its Goals 2000 legislation proclaimed that, by that year, the United States’ high school graduation rate would be 90 percent and American students would lead the world in math and science achievements. Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan (D-N.Y.) was unimpressed: “That will not happen.” It didn’t, to the surprise of no one with an inkling of reality’s viscosity.

President Bill Clinton’s (then Congress’s) goals, which Moynihan compared to the Soviet Union’s penchant for delusional grain quotas, illustrated what the senator called the “leakage of reality from American life.” Speaking of which: Democrats, including many presidential candidates, have endorsed something that makes Goals 2000 look like the soul of sobriety. The Green New Deal’s FAQ sheet says: In 10 years, America will have only non-carbon renewable energy. (ExxonMobil plans to produce 25 percent more oil and gas in 2025 than in 2017.) By then, “every building in America” will be environmentally retrofitted, “farting cows” (methane gas; say goodbye to hamburgers) will be on the way out, fast electric trains will make airplanes unnecessary, “every combustion-engine vehicle” will be gone. (But relax: Charging stations will be “everywhere.”)

The GND has no practical importance but much significance. First, it underscores the rise of the politics of gestures that are as flamboyant as they are empty: President Trump has his wall, the left has its GND. Second, it reprises the progressive desire to militarize everything but the military, to conscript everyone into vast collective undertakings that supposedly justify vast excisions from personal liberty and the setting aside of pesky constitutional impediments. See President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s call in his first inaugural address for power “as great as the power that would be given to me if we were in fact invaded by a foreign foe.”

Third, the GND reveals progressives’ embrace of Trump’s political style, a stew of frivolity and mendacity.

Remember his campaign boast that he would erase the national debt — not just the budget deficit, the then$19 trillion debt — in eight years, meaning by more than $2 trillion a year? This was ludicrous, but not more so than

G W

A monument to presidential power Mitch McConnell seems to have found a way to allow President Donald Trump to eat his cake (Mar-a-Lago chocolate, no doubt) and keep it, too. On Thursday, the Senate majority leader announced INDA that the president would sign compromise legislation hamHAVEZ mered out in the wake of the 35-day government shutdown over funding for additional barriers along our southern border. In return, McConnell will support the president's declaration of a "national emergency" that will allow the administration to use military dollars to build more fencing than Congress has appropriated for that purpose.

Expect much of the country, including many in Congress, to choke on McConnell's appeasement.

No matter how many times or in how loud a voice the president says it, there is no emergency at the border requiring flouting the separation of powers, which gives Congress control over the purse strings. The United States is not being flooded with dangerous criminals and

job-stealing immigrants from south of the border. Immigrants, including those who have come here illegally, are less likely to commit crimes than people born here.

El Paso, Texas — where the president visited recently to show off what happens when you build a wall — was safe long before the wall was built and is one of the safest cities its size in America today even with a large population of immigrants, documented and undocumented.

And even the president has now admitted that we need more immigrants — not fewer, which is what he had been proposing since his campaign — to fill jobs that no one else is taking.

But truth doesn't matter to this opinion administration. There is no military emergency at the border that justifies reallocating funds, especially at a time when there are emergencies requiring U.S. support in Syria and Afghanistan, where Trump is drawing down troops. Maybe Trump hopes no one will make the connection.

What is surprising — and more than a little disheartContinued on next page.

the GND, which is not the only example of the Trumpification of the left. The Wall Street Journal’s James Freeman notes that, last year, Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) said this on NBC: “My mother and daddy were born and raised in Oklahoma. My daddy first saw my mother when they were both teenagers. He fell in love with this tall, quiet girl who played the piano. Head over heels. But his family was bitterly opposed to their relationship because she was part Native American. They eventually eloped.”

“Bitterly”? Because of the mother’s Native American “part”? Which could not have been much more than Warren’s still-hypothetical minuscule part? As Freeman writes: “If Native American ancestry was so distant on

her mother’s side that the senator has never been able to name any native relatives — and even now her own DNA expert cannot rule out the possibility that she has no such relatives at all — how would her father’s family have known enough to object?”

What a tangled web we weave. It is now reasonable to conclude that Warren has made “birther” claims for self-serving reasons that remain opaque, claims that are no more factual or unimportant than the birther fabrications Trump concocted for use against Barack Obama.

What explains Trump and his progressive emulators? No doubt many things, but begin with the leakage of reality from American life.

The Washington Post

L C

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 •

15

Ex-FBI deputy director has history of misleading statements Former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe was on "60 Minutes" Sunday night, and you can expect to see stories on him and his new book for days. You can also expect McCabe to portray himself as an upright lawman who stood up to President Donald Trump out of fear that the Russians DEBRA may have helped carry Trump all the way to the White House. SAUNDERS There is one thing you should know about McCabe.

The Department of Justice inspector general found that McCabe was involved in an unauthorized leak and that he misled federal investigators who questioned him about it.

The IG report doesn't say that McCabe lied to the feds but concludes he engaged in a "lack of candor under oath."

That's why former Attorney General Jeff Sessions fired McCabe.

While Trump had been pushing for McCabe's exit, FBI disciplinary officials recommended he be canned.

Remember that as you watch McCabe assert that he became a target because he called for the obstruction of justice investigation after Trump fired opinion FBI Director James Comey.

"That's obviously the problem he has as he's doing his book tour and describing various situations with the president," said Gregory A. Brower, Nevada's former U.S. attorney and a former FBI congressional liaison who worked with McCabe.

McCabe's interview with "60 Minutes" comes ahead of the release of his memoir, "The Threat: How the FBI Protects America in the Age of Terror and Trump."

At the time of his own firing, McCabe said in a statement, "I am being singled out and treated this way because

of the role I played, the actions I took and the events I witnessed in the aftermath of the firing of James Comey."

Trump first set his sights on McCabe because the FBI deputy director oversaw the FBI probe into former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's private email server, despite what Trump saw as a conflict of interest.

(McCabe's wife, Jill McCabe, ran for the Virginia state Senate in 2015. She lost, but a PAC run by the Virginia Democratic Party and then-Gov. Terry McAuliffe, a supersize figure in Clinton's world, gave her campaign hundreds of thousands of dollars. When the FBI began the investigation into the Clinton emails, McCabe did not recuse himself because the campaign was in the past and he was not involved in it. On Nov. 1, 2016, after The Wall Street Journal reported on McCabe's role, he recused himself from the Clinton probe.)

As The Wall Street Journal started looking into McCabe's role, he decided to leak information about a Justice Department higher-up having pushed him to back off on the Clinton probe because it was happening close to the 2016 election. Like so many leakers, McCabe was behind a leak that made him look good.

And when federal investigators started to probe the leak, McCabe told them a lot of information seemed to be coming out of the New York FBI office, according to the IG report.

The report also cited two New York FBI officials who said McCabe admonished them for the leaks. One wrote that McCabe told him there would be "consequences" if New York didn't get to the bottom of it, and sent the message "Need leaks to stop. Damaging to org."

When officials with the FBI Inspection Division questioned McCabe, they saw him as the "victim" of the leak

and sent him a statement that stipulated he didn't know the source of The Wall Street Journal leak or authorize anyone to share information with the paper. He didn't sign.

Later, after McCabe decided to set the record straight and admit he was the source, an agent testified that he told McCabe: "Sir, you understand that we put a lot of work into this based on what you told us. I mean, and I even said, long nights and weekends working on this, trying to find out who amongst your ranks of trusted people would, would do something like that."

McCabe said he was sorry but there was a lot going on at the time. Because there's not much of a problem with federal investigators making innocent people nervous, is there?

On "60 Minutes," McCabe will talk about meetings at which Department of Justice officials discussed whether there were enough officials -- the vice president and a majority of the Cabinet — to remove Trump under the 25th Amendment, as if they have authority to stage a coup of sorts.

Clearly miffed, Trump retaliated on Twitter Thursday, calling McCabe "A big part of the Crooked Hillary Scandal & Russia Hoax — a puppet for Leakin' James Comey."

Brower objects to the way Trump talks about the FBI probe as stacked against him. If there were conversations about the 25th Amendment, he added, "Obviously nothing ever happened."

Got it. But when you see McCabe on television talking about his fears about Russia having gotten Trump into the Oval Office, remember that the inspector general concluded that he misled federal authorities — and he was so good at it; they believed him.

Copyright 2019 Creators.com

A monument to presidential power

Plunder: It is now an American way of life

Continued from preceding page. ening — is when someone as smart as McConnell plays along. McConnell could have delivered an important message to the White House: "This is the best you are going to get. Accept it, and don't try to tread on congressional turf by usurping our authority to appropriate funds. If you veto the bill, I will allow a vote to override your veto and I will get all of the Democrats and enough Republicans to pass it without your signature."

Now that would have delivered an important conservative message. Congress is not only a coequal branch of government but the first branch as defined in Article 1 of the Constitution.

For too long, the executive branch has encroached on the prerogatives of the legislative branch. President Trump has followed in the footsteps of his immediate predecessor, Barack Obama, in using executive authority to accomplish what he couldn't win approval for in Congress.

When Trump doesn't get his way, he simply issues orders to do what he wants anyway, which is what he will do if he declares an emergency at the border. It will be up to the third branch, the judicial branch, to stop the president from ignoring the legitimate limits the Constitution places on his power. But whether that will happen may depend on whether the conservatives on the Supreme Court live up to the principles of limited government they espouse.

If they cave as McConnell has, maybe Trump's wall will get built after all.

In the end, Trump's power grab and theatrics can only be stopped by the American people. Polls suggest that most Americans don't want a wall and don't want to pay for it. Whether enough of them will rally to oppose him in the next election is anyone's guess -- and will depend largely on the options before them. But one thing is for sure. If Democrats do win the White House in the next election, you can expect a Democrat to follow Trump's lead. Congress will become ever less important as the imperial presidency expands the power of one man — or woman — with fewer checks and balances than our Founding Fathers envisioned. Our American republic will be the worse for it.

Copyright 2019 Creators.com

Frederic Bastiat, a French economist and member of the French National Assembly, lived from 1801 to 1850.

He had great admiration for our country, except for our two faults — slavery and tariffs.

He said: "Look at the United States. There is no country in ALTER the world where the law is kept more within its proper domain: ILLIAMS the protection of every person's liberty and property." If Bastiat were alive today, he would not have that same level of admiration. The U.S. has become what he fought against for most of his short life.

Bastiat observed that "when plunder becomes a way of life for a group of men in a society, over the course of time they create for themselves a legal system that authorizes it and a moral code that glorifies it." You might ask, "What did Bastiat mean by 'plunder'?" Plunder is when someone forcibly takes the property of another. That's private plunder. What opinion he truly railed against was legalized plunder, and he told us how to identify it. He said: "See if the law takes from some persons what belongs to them, and gives it to other persons to whom it does not belong.

See if the law benefits one citizen at the expense of another by doing what the citizen himself cannot do without committing a crime."

That could describe today's American laws. We enthusiastically demand that the U.S. Congress forcibly use one American to serve the purposes of another American. You say: "Williams, that's insulting. It's no less than saying that we Americans support a form of slavery!" What then should we call it when two-thirds to three-quarters of a $4 trillion-plus federal budget can be described as Congress taking the property of one American and giving it to another to whom it does not belong? Where do you think Congress gets the billions upon billions of dollars for business and farmer handouts?

What about the billions handed out for Medicare, Medicaid, food stamps, housing allowances and thousands of other handouts? There's no Santa Claus or tooth fairy giving Congress the money, and members of Congress

W W

are not spending their own money. The only way Congress can give one American $1 is to first take it from another American.

What if I privately took the property of one American to give to another American to help him out? I'm guessing and hoping you'd call it theft and seek to jail me. When Congress does the same thing, it's still theft. The only difference is that it's legalized theft. However, legality alone does not establish morality. Slavery was legal; was it moral? Nazi, Stalinist and Maoist purges were legal, but were they moral?

Some argue that Congress gets its authority to bypass its enumerated powers from the general welfare clause.

There are a host of proofs that the Framers had no such intention. James Madison, the "Father of the Constitution," wrote, "If Congress can do whatever in their discretion can be done by money, and will promote the general welfare, the Government is no longer a limited one possessing enumerated powers, but an indefinite one." Thomas Jefferson wrote, "Our tenet ever was ... that Congress had not unlimited powers to provide for the general welfare, but were restrained to those specifically enumerated."

Rep. William Drayton of South Carolina asked in 1828, "If Congress can determine what constitutes the general welfare and can appropriate money for its advancement, where is the limitation to carrying into execution whatever can be effected by money?"

What about our nation's future? Alexis de Tocqueville is said to have predicted, "The American republic will endure until the day Congress discovers that it can bribe the public with the public's money." We long ago began ignoring Bastiat's warning when the federal government was just a tiny fraction of gross domestic product — 3 percent, as opposed to today's 20 percent: "If you don't take care, what begins by being an exception tends to become general, to multiply itself, and to develop into a veritable system."

Moral Americans are increasingly confronted with Bastiat's dilemma: "When law and morality contradict each other, the citizen has the cruel alternative of either losing his moral sense or losing his respect for the law."

Copyright 2019 Creators.com

16

• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal

LEGAL NOTICES MBJ legal notice instructions The following are some guidelines to consider when posting legal notices with the Midlands Business Journal: 1. Submit a written notice in either Microsoft Word or as a PDF document to Beth Grube at legals@mbj.com, fax to 402-758-9315 or mail: 1324 S. 119th St. Omaha, NE 68144.

For trade names, submit a copy of approved (bar code in upper right hand corner) Application For Registration of Trade Name from the Secretary of State to the same email address. Please include your billing address and the desired duration you’d like your notice to run (trade names run for only one week).

2. You will receive a confirmation and price quote. Legal notices, except for trade names, are charged per line. The flat fee for a trade name is $50.

Payment options are cash or check.

3. Deadline is 5 p.m. Tuesday for a notice to start publishing that Friday.

4. All costs include fees to file the notice with the Secretary of State and/or any appropriate courts.

5. You will receive a paid invoice copy and a courtesy proof of the notice the first week it runs and a copy of the affidavit filed with the courts the last week.

THOMAS H. PENKE, Attorney 12020 Shamrock Plaza, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68106-1046 LEGAL NOTICE In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR19-146 Estate of DEAN G. TRAUDT, Deceased Notice is hereby given that on February 1, 2019, 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 Susan M. Traudt, whose address is 7571 Seward Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68114, has been appointed Personal Representative of this estate.

Creditors of this estate must file their claims with this Court, located at Courtroom No. 30, Third Floor, Probate Division, Douglas County Hall of Justice, 17th & Farnam Streets, Omaha, NE 68183, on or before April 8, 2019 or be forever barred.

CARROL L. MILLS Registrar First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF ANAYA ABID, LLC Notice is hereby given that a Limited Liability Company has been formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The initial Registered Agent is:Abid Aziz The address of the initial Registered Office is: 3874 Hamilton Street Omaha, NE 68131 The Certificate of Organization was filed with the Secretary of State on January 18, 2019.

The Company has perpetual existence; the general nature of its business is operation of convenience store(s). Company business will be conducted by its Manager as described in the Company’s Operating Agreement.

Alton E. Mitchell, Authorized Representative First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 WALENTINE O'TOOLE McQUILLAN & GORDON, Attorneys 11240 Davenport Street P.O. Box 540125 Omaha, Nebraska 68154-0125 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF TPLH Farms, LLC TPLH Farms, LLC, with its initial designated office at 12414 Pinewood Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68144, gives notice that it filed its Certificate of Organization with the Nebraska Secretary of State on January 30, 2019, 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 Lori S. Hook, and her initial mailing address is 12414 Pinewood Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68144. 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.

Lori S. Hook, Manager First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF NETWAR NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that NETWAR has been incorporated under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The principal office of the nonprofit public benefit corporation is 17119 Sherwood Ave, Omaha, Nebraska 68116.

The registered agent and office is Travis Kreikemeier, 17119 Sherwood Ave, Omaha, Nebraska 68116. The effective date of the incorporation was October 8, 2018 for the perpetual duration and the organization is managed by its board of directors. The purpose of the nonprofit corporation is to organize video gaming events with the proceeds benefiting various charitable organizations that qualify as exempt organizations under section 501(c)(3) of the internal revenue code.

First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF HG HOLDINGS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that HG Holdings, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 16636 Leavenworth Street, Omaha, NE 68118. The Registered Agent of the Company is Yongmin Gui, her office is located at 16636 Leavenworth Street, Omaha, NE 68118.

First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019

DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 13625 California Street, Suite 110 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF FELICITATEM IN CIVITATEM, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Felicitatem in Civitatem, 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 DDLG Business Services, Inc., 13625 California Street, Suite 110, Omaha, Nebraska 68154.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 13625 California Street, Suite 110 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF VIAND GROUP, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Viand Group, 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 DDLG Business Services, Inc., 13625 California Street, Suite 110, Omaha, Nebraska 68154.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 13625 California Street, Suite 110 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF OHA FARMS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that OHA Farms, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 9339 Road 108, Bridgeport, Nebraska 69336. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 13625 California Street, Suite 110, Omaha, Nebraska 68154.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 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 CLAIRLIND, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Clairlind, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 16572 Crestfield Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68136. 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 January 29, 2019.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF AMENDED AND RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION OF B-H-L, L.L.C. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Certificate of Organization of B-H-L, L.L.C. has been amended and restated. The designated office of the limited liability company is 1120 S. 101st Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68124.

The registered agent and office of the limited liability company is 1125 S. 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The Amended and Restated Certificate of Organization was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on January 30, 2019.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 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 KCH, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that KCH, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 12015 Jefferson Plaza, Omaha, Nebraska 68137. 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 January 30, 2019.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 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 INVEST OMAHA IV, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Invest Omaha IV, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 1065 North 115th Street, Suite 200, Omaha, Nebraska 68154. The registered agent and office of the limited liability company is Mark D. Jepson, 1065 North 115th Street, Suite 200, Omaha, Nebraska 68154. The limited liability company commenced business on January 30, 2019.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 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 LIFESTYLE FITNESS OF WATERLOO, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Lifestyle Fitness of Waterloo, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. 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 January 30, 2019.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019

HALEY REAL ESTATE GROUP, LLC 10703 J Street, Suite 101 Omaha, NE 68127 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION FOR AMBERWOOD HC4, LLC A Certificate of Organization was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State for Amberwood HC4, LLC (the “Company”) on October 12, 2018.

The address of the Company’s designated office is 10703 J Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68127. The name and address for the Company’s registered agent is Carl J. Troia, Jr., 10703 J Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68127.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 HALEY REAL ESTATE GROUP, LLC 10703 J Street, Suite 101 Omaha, NE 68127 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION FOR ARBOR CREEK HC4, LLC A Certificate of Organization was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State for Arbor Creek HC4, LLC (the “Company”) on December 28, 2018.

The address of the Company’s designated office is 10703 J Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68127. The name and address for the Company’s registered agent is Carl J. Troia, Jr., 10703 J Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68127.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 HALEY REAL ESTATE GROUP, LLC 10703 J Street, Suite 101 Omaha, NE 68127 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION FOR CAMBRIDGE HC4, LLC A Certificate of Organization was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State for Cambridge HC4, LLC (the “Company”) on May 14, 2018. The addressof the Company’s designated office is 10703 J Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68127. The name and address for the Company’s registered agent is Carl J. Troia, Jr., 10703 J Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68127.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 HALEY REAL ESTATE GROUP, LLC 10703 J Street, Suite 101 Omaha, NE 68127 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION FOR COTTONWOOD HC4, LLC A Certificate of Organization was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State for Cottonwood HC4, LLC (the “Company”) on May 14, 2018. The address of the Company’s designated office is 10703 J Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68127. The name and address for the Company’s registered agent is Carl J. Troia, Jr., 10703 J Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68127.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 HALEY REAL ESTATE GROUP, LLC 10703 J Street, Suite 101 Omaha, NE 68127 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION FOR NORTHWOOD HC4, LLC A Certificate of Organization was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State for Northwood HC4, LLC (the “Company”) on May 14, 2018. The address of the Company’s designated office is 10703 J Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68127. The name and address for the Company’s registered agent is Carl J. Troia, Jr., 10703 J Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68127.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 HALEY REAL ESTATE GROUP, LLC 10703 J Street, Suite 101 Omaha, NE 68127 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION FOR WESTBROOK HC4, LLC A Certificate of Organization was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State for Westbrook HC4, LLC (the “Company”) on August 15, 2018. The address of the Company’s designated office is 10703 J Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68127. The name and address for the Company’s registered agent is Carl J. Troia, Jr., 10703 J Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68127.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 13625 California Street, Suite 110 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF PAROD FAMILY, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Parod Family, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The Designated Office Address of the Company is 13625 California Street, Suite 110, Omaha, Nebraska 68154. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 13625 California Street, Suite 110, Omaha, Nebraska 68154.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 LEGACY DESIGN STRATEGIES 9859 South 168th Avenue Omaha, NE 68136 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION 1. The name of the Limited Liability Company is KGL, LLC 2. The address of the designated office of the company is 17323 South Creek Circle, Omaha, NE 68136.

3. The purpose for which the company is organized is to engage in any and all business which is lawful under the Uniform Limited Liability Company Act of the State of Nebraska.

4. The company commenced its existence on February 27, 2018, and the period of duration of the Company shall be perpetual.

5. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by its Members in accordance with the company’s operating agreement.

Ross M. Berg Andrew C. Sigerson, P.C., L.L.O. First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • LEGAL NOTICES DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 13625 California Street, Suite 110 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF NE CITY BOUTIQUE, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that NE City Boutique, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the company is 17303 Samantha Road, Gretna, Nebraska 68028. The registered agent of the company is DDLG Business Services, Inc. and the registered address of the company is 13625 California Street, Suite 110, Omaha, NE 68154.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 13625 California Street, Suite 110 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF AMENDMENT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Certificate of Organization of Christiansen Construction Co., LLC has been amended to change the name of the limited liability company to TGC Holding Company, LLC. First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 13625 California Street, Suite 110 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF AMENDMENT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Certificate of Organization of Robin Hill Plate, LLC has been amended to change the name of the limited liability company to Robin Hill Place, LLC. First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019

DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 13625 California Street, Suite 110 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF PHASE 3 AG, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Phase 3 Ag, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 9339 Road 108, Bridgeport, Nebraska 69336. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 13625 California Street, Suite 110, Omaha, Nebraska 68154.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF FOREVER FOR YOU CORP NOTICE IF HEREBY GIVEN that a non-profit Incorporation has been formed under the law of the State of Nebraska , and the name of the Incorporation is FOREVER FOR YOU CORP. The corporation will have members. The name and street of the Incorporator, initial registered agent and office is Jesamari Rodriguez, 2308 Bancroft Street Omaha, Nebraska 68108. The name and address of the corporation is FOREVER FOR YOU CORP, 2308 Bancroft Street Omaha, Nebraska 68108. The general nature of the business to be transacted is nonprofit leadership development, civic engagement, combating community deterioration and juvenile delinquency, for charitable and educational purposes.

Jesamari Rodriguez, Applicant First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF Ono Pinay Kitchen, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Ono Pinay Kitchen, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 2221 Madison Street, Bellevue, Nebraska 68005. Its affairs are to be conducted by the two managers Maria L. Villegas and Leomar Y. Villegas. The registered agent and office of the limited liability company is Maria Villegas, 6633 Elmhurst Drive, Papillion, Nebraska 68133. The limited liability company commenced business on January 9, 2019.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF JSMS INVESTMENTS, LLC Notice is hereby given that a Limited Liability Company has been formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The initial Registered Agent is: Jay Senanayaka The address of the initial Registered Office is: 16048 Fowler Avenue, Omaha NE, 68116 The Certificate of Organization was filed with the Secretary of State on January 23, 2019.

The Company has perpetual existence; the general nature of its business is operation of rental property. Company business will be conducted by its Manager as described in the Company’s Operating Agreement.

Alton E. Mitchell, Authorized Representative First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that Asher Valley Farms, L.L.C. (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the Company is 7926 Miami Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68134. The registered agent of the Company is Marilyn Asher, 7926 Miami Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68134. The Company was formed on January 30, 2019.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019

ROBERT J. KMIECIK, Attorney STINSON LEONARD STREET LLP 1299 Farnam Street, Suite 1500 Omaha, Nebraska 68102-1818 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF Milan Laser Jenkintown, LLC Notice is hereby given that a Nebraska limited liability company named Milan Laser Jenkintown, 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 17645 Wright Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68130 and the Company’s initial agent for service of process at such address is Abe Schumacher.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 ROBERT J. KMIECIK, Attorney STINSON LEONARD STREET LLP 1299 Farnam Street, Suite 1500 Omaha, Nebraska 68102-1818 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF Milan Laser Maple Grove, LLC Notice is hereby given that a Nebraska limited liability company named Milan Laser Maple Grove, 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 17645 Wright Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68130 and the Company’s initial agent for service of process at such address is Abe Schumacher.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 ROBERT J. KMIECIK, Attorney STINSON LEONARD STREET LLP 1299 Farnam Street, Suite 1500 Omaha, Nebraska 68102-1818 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF Milan Laser Newtown, LLC Notice is hereby given that a Nebraska limited liability company named Milan Laser Newtown, 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 17645 Wright Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68130 and the Company’s initial agent for service of process at such address is Abe Schumacher.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 ROBERT J. KMIECIK, Attorney STINSON LEONARD STREET LLP 1299 Farnam Street, Suite 1500 Omaha, Nebraska 68102-1818 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF Milan Laser King of Prussia, LLC Notice is hereby given that a Nebraska limited liability company named Milan Laser King of Prussia, 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 17645 Wright Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68130 and the Company’s initial agent for service of process at such address is Abe Schumacher.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 ROBERT J. KMIECIK, Attorney STINSON LEONARD STREET LLP 1299 Farnam Street, Suite 1500 Omaha, Nebraska 68102-1818 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF Milan Laser Edina, LLC Notice is hereby given that a Nebraska limited liability company named Milan Laser Edina, 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 17645 Wright Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68130 and the Company’s initial agent for service of process at such address is Abe Schumacher.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 ROBERT J. KMIECIK, Attorney STINSON LEONARD STREET LLP 1299 Farnam Street, Suite 1500 Omaha, Nebraska 68102-1818 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF Milan Laser Woodbury, LLC Notice is hereby given that a Nebraska limited liability company named Milan Laser Woodbury, 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 17645 Wright Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68130 and the Company’s initial agent for service of process at such address is Abe Schumacher.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019

DANIEL J. WATERS, Attorney LAMSON, DUGAN and MURRAY, LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3743 NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF RAMIKINS, 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 Ramikins, LLC. The name and address of the registered agent and office is LDM Business Services, Inc, 10306 Regency Park-way Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The general nature of the business to be transacted is all law-ful business. The company commenced existence on January 16, 2019 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 February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019

17

STATE OF NEBRASKA PAROLE BOARD HEARINGS NOTICE A total of 140 cases will be heard by the Board in February, 2019.

The following case(s) sentenced in Douglas County will be seen by the Board of Parole.

February 19, 2019 – 9:30 a.m. Tecumseh State Correctional Institution, Tecumseh, Nebraska Russell, Billy 78949 Burglary, Poss Deadly Weap by Felon/Fug, Poss/Receive Stolen Firearm, Theft by Unlwfl Taking or Disp (2 counts) Haynie, Jerell 80234 Manu/Dist/Del/Disp or Poss W/I (2 counts), Pos Cntrl Sub Except Marijuana Briggs, Emerson 80994 Burglary, Escape Carlson, Eric 85930 Robbery February 20, 2019 – 8:30 a.m. Community Correctional Center Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska Gunter, William 55874 Sexual Assault of Child 1st Deg Hudson, Christopher 67089 Child Abuse Wolfe, Travis 73192 Manslaughter Wallace, Jesse 78806 Assault 2nd Degree (2 counts), Driving While Intoxicated, Manu/Dist/Del/Disp or Poss W/I, Poss Deadly Weap by Felong/Fug Peterson, Amber 98642 Viol of Financial Trans Device Lambert, Daniel 88464 Poss Deadly Weap by Felon/Fug, Theft by Receiving Stolen Prop Brooks, Tyrone 82048 Assault 2nd Degree, Possession of Defaced Firearm, Use Deadly Weap to Commit Fel February 22, 2019 – 9:30 a.m. Omaha Correctional Center, Omaha, Nebraska Dufour, Jethro 78306 Poss Deadly Weap by Felon/Fug Johnson, Kevin 84198 Manu/Dist/Del/Disp or Poss W/I, Tampering Rose, Eric 86660 Operate Motor Veh/Avoid Arrest, Theft by Receiving Stolen Prop, Theft by Shoplifting Harlow, Kenneth 87662 Assault 2nd Degree, Burglary Garcia, Jose 88135 Manu/Dist/Del/Disp or Poss W/I (2 counts) Shaw, Donavan 88122 Robbery Leggett, Larry 84822 Robbery February 25, 2019 – 8:30 a.m. Nebraska State Penitentiary, Lincoln, Nebraska Door, Duop 75432 Robbery Newte, Johnathan 79262 Terroristic Threats, Use Deadly Weap to Commit Fel Reynolds, Clayton 79570 Robbery, Tampering, Theft by Receiving Stolen Prop Holmes, John 84762 Visl Depict Sexl Explicit Cond Phipps, James 87643 Manu/Dist/Del/Disp or Poss W/I Gonzales, Mark 87900 Accessory to a Felony, Pos Cntrl Sub Except Marijuana, Theft by Receiving Stolen Prop (2 counts) Valentine, Justin 87940 Robbery Brockmoller, Alex 86618 Theft by Receiving Stolen Prop Ingram, John 86495 Poss Deadly Weap by Felon/Fug February 26, 2019 – 1:00 p.m. Lincoln Correctional Center, Lincoln, Nebraska Barnes, Gary 78209 Robbery (4 counts), Use Deadly Weap to Commit Fel Richard, Trondell 80817 Poss Deadly Weap by Felon/Fug Brown, Dylan 88712 Manu/Dist/Del/Disp or Poss W/I Calderon, Luis 88769 Manu/Dist/Del/Disp or Poss W/I Marshall, Terrance 88520 Assault 3rd Degree, Poss Deadly Weap

by Felon/Fug Marion, Raymond 46531 Murder 2nd Degree February 27, 2019 – 9:30 a.m. Nebraska Correctional Center for Women, York, Nebraska Jacobsen, Patricia 96697 Manu/Dist/Del/Disp or Poss W/I Moore, Tina 98821 Forgery 2nd Degree, Theft by Receiving Stolen Prop, Theft by Unlwfl Taking or Disp (2 counts), Viol of Financial Trans Device (3 counts) Kanger, Sara 99042 Operate Motor Veh/Avoid, Theft By Receiving Stolen Prop, Theft By Unlwfl Taking or Disp February 28, 2018 – 9:30 a.m. Community Correctional Center Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska Nelson, Demetrius 59800 Murder 2nd Degree, Use Deadly Weap to Commit Fel Burr, Ezekiel 61929 Sexual Assault 1st Degree Mason, Andrew 75620 Burglary, Robbery Tang, Buom 75646 Burglary, Robbery Bush, William 80329 Poss Deadly Weap by Felon/Fug Vanschoiack, Trenton 84420 Burglary, Pos Cntrl Sub Except Marijuana, Robbery Edwards, Jefferey 87422 Poss Deadly Weap by Felon/Fug, Poss Receive Stolen Firearm Martin, Christine 98796 Theft by Deception (3 counts) ROSALYN COTTON, CHAIR NEBRASKA BOARD OF PAROLE February 22, 2019 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Make Ready Cleaning LLC (the "Company") has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The Designated Office Address of the Company is 4811 Burt Street, Omaha, NE 68132. The Registered Agent of the Company is Michael A Pekas, 4811 Burt Street, Omaha, NE 68132.

First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF JILL CARSON PHOTOGRAPHY, LLC Notice is hereby given that Jill Carson Photography, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. Its initial agent and designated office is Jillian Carson, 17319 Sharp Street, Omaha, NE 68135.

The LLC was organized on January 16, 2019.

First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019

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• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal

LEGAL NOTICES JOHN Q. BACHMAN, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF HEARTWOOD PRESERVE MASTER PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION Notice is hereby given of the incorporation of Heartwood Preserve Master Property Owners Association under the laws of the State of Nebraska as follows: 1. The name of the Corporation is Heartwood Preserve Master Property Owners Association.

2. The Corporation is a mutual benefit corporation.

3. The name of the Corporation’s initial registered agent is John Q. Bachman and the address of the initial registered office is 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

4. The name and street address of the incorporator is: John Q. Bachman, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114 5. The Corporation will have members.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 DEAN F. SUING, Attorney GOVIER, KATSKEE, SUING & MAXELL, PC, LLO 10404 Essex Court, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF PATRICIA ANNE, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has formed a limited liability company under the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act, as follows: The name of the company is Patricia Anne, LLC. The address of the designated office is 8901 F Street, Omaha, Nebraska, 68127 and the initial registered agent is Dean F. Suing, 10404 Essex Court, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The company is organized to engage in and do any lawful act concerning any and all lawful business, other than banking and insurance, for which a limited liability company may be organized under the laws of Nebraska. The limited liability company commenced existence on the filing and recording of its Certificate of Organization with the Secretary of State on January 31, 2019, and shall have a perpetual period of duration from the date the Certificate of Organization was filed with the Secretary of State. Management of the Company shall be vested in an initial board of one manager who shall serve until successors are appointed or elected.

Dean F. Suing, Registered Agent First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 ABRAHAMS KASLOW & CASSMAN LLP, Attorneys 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION MadJac Realty & Property Management, 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 9716 Parker Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The name and street and mailing address of the initial registered agent of the company for service of process are Timothy M. Kenny, Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman LLP, 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Virtual Tour Omaha, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company, was organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska, as of November 19, 2018, and filed a Statement of Correction to note the name as Virtual Tours Omaha, LLC on January 8, 2019. The company’s registered office is located at 14714 Girard Street, Bennington, NE 68007, and Tiffany E. Thompson will serve as its initial agent for service of process at 4611 South 96th Street, Suite 250, Omaha, NE 68127. The general nature of its business is to engage in and to do any lawful act and any and all lawful business for which a limited liability company may be organized under the laws of Nebraska.

First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 13625 California Street, Suite 110 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF WOODCHUCKERS TREE SERVICE, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Woodchuckers Tree Service, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 912 Lakeview Drive, Eagle, Nebraska 68347. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 13625 California Street, Suite 110, Omaha, Nebraska 68154.

First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 13625 California Street, Suite 110 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF SOWER FARM MANAGEMENT, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Sower Farm Management, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The Designated Office Address of the Company is 1303 S 72nd Street, Suite 209, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 13625 California Street, Suite 110, Omaha, Nebraska 68154.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019

ERICKSON l SEDERSTROM, P.C., Attorneys 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF COLLABORATIVE NP, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Collaborative NP, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company (the “Company”), has been duly organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska, designating its registered agent as Erickson & Sederstrom, P.C. with its registered office at 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

The Company was organized for the purpose of engaging in the transaction of any lawful business and the performance of any lawful activities that a limited liability company may engage in under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Company 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.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 ABRAHAMS KASLOW & CASSMAN LLP, Attorneys 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF AMENDMENT The Articles of Incorporation of Nebraska-Iowa Wireless Association, Inc., a Nebraska nonprofit corporation, have been amended and restated in their entirety to clarify (1) the purpose of the corporation, which is a business league within the meaning of Section 501(c)(6) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 as amended, or corresponding section of any future federal tax code, of individuals and businesses involved in the wireless telecommunications industry devoted to improving business conditions and promoting the general advancement of the wireless telecommunications industry in Nebraska and Iowa and (2) the role of its members. The corporation is a public benefit corporation. The street address of the corporation’s registered office is 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska, 68114-3419; and the name of the registered agent of the corporation at that office is Harvey B. Cooper. The corporation does not have members as such term is defined in the Nebraska Nonprofit Corporation Act. First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 LEGACY DESIGN STRATEGIES 9859 South 168th Avenue Omaha, NE 68136 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION 1. The name of the Limited Liability Company is CHERNICH, LLC 2. The address of the designated office of the company is 17323 South Creek Circle, Omaha, NE 68136.

3. The purpose for which the company is organized is to engage in any and all business which is lawful under the Uniform Limited Liability Company Act of the State of Nebraska.

4. The company commenced its existence on March 5, 2018, and the period of duration of the Company shall be perpetual.

5. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by its Members in accordance with the company’s operating agreement.

Ross M. Berg Andrew C. Sigerson, P.C., L.L.O. First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 LEGACY DESIGN STRATEGIES 9859 South 168th Avenue Omaha, NE 68136 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION 1. The name of the Limited Liability Company is EASE PET SITTING, LLC 2. The address of the designated office of the company is 18974 Pratt Street, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022.

3. The name of the initial agent for service of the Company at such address is Robert P. Fritz. The initial mailing address of the initial agent for service is 18974 Pratt Street, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022.

4. The purpose for which the company is organized is to engage in any and all business which is lawful under the Uniform Limited Liability Company Act of the State of Nebraska.

5. The company commenced its existence on February 4, 2019, and the period of duration of the Company shall be perpetual.

6. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by its Members in accordance with the company’s operating agreement.

Ross M. Berg Andrew C. Sigerson, P.C., L.L.O. First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 TIEDEMAN, LYNCH, KAMPFE, McVAY & RESPELIERS, Attorneys 6910 Pacific Street, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68106-1045 LEGAL NOTICE In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR19-100 Estate of Robert J. Wolff, Deceased Notice is hereby given that on January 30, 2019, in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, the Registrar issued a written statement of Informal Probate of the Will of said Deceased and that James L. Wolff, whose address is 1234 Daytona Avenue, Holly Hill, Florida 32117, has been appointed Personal Representative of this estate.

Creditors of this estate must file their claims with this Court, located at Courtroom No. 30, Third Floor, Probate Division, Douglas County Hall of Justice, 17th & Farnam Streets, Omaha, NE 68183, on or before April 22, 2019 or be forever barred.

CARROL L. MILLS Registrar First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION All Access Brokerage, 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 8420 West Dodge Road, Suite 510, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The name and street and mailing address of the initial registered agent of the company for service of process are Gregory P. Bolton, 8420 West Dodge Road, Suite 510, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF DONN RAYMOND CONSULTING L.L.C. 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 Donn Raymond Consulting L.L.C. The name and address of the registered agent is Donn Raymond, 19105 Frances Circle, Omaha, NE 68130. The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business. The company commenced existence on February 7, 2019 and shall have perpetual duration. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by the Managers as prescribed by the Operating Agreement.

First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 KELLOGG & PALZER, P.C. 10828 Old Mill Road, Suite 6 Omaha, Nebraska 68154-2647 NOTICE OFAMENDMENT TO CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION CHANGE OF NAME The Certificate of Organization of Mitchell Masker Landscape Management, LLC has been amended, changing the name of the company from Mitchell Masker Landscape Management, LLC to ENLIGHTEN LAWN AND LANDSCAPING, LLC, effective February 12, 2019. All other provisions of the Certificate of Organization remain unchanged.

First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 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 SNOWMASS AIR LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Snowmass Air LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 15750 West Dodge Road, Omaha, Nebraska 68154. 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 68154. The limited liability company commenced business on February 13, 2019.

First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 CHARLES E. DORWART, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney GOVIER, KATSKEE, SUING & MAXELL, PC, LLO 10404 Essex Court, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that be Epictetus Cato, L.L.C. has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with its registered office located at 1805 North 18th Street, Apt 101, Omaha, NE 68110. The general nature of the business is to transact all lawful business for which a limited liability company may be organized under the Nebraska law. The company was organized on December 27, 2018 and shall have a perpetual existence.

Its purpose is to provide services to the elderly.

The affairs of the company are to be conducted by Member Managers as designated in the operating agreement.

Autumn Golonka, Member Manager First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 CHARLES E. DORWART, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney GOVIER, KATSKEE, SUING & MAXELL, PC, LLO 10404 Essex Court, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that be Neil & Steve Real Estate L.L.C. has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with its registered office located at 12116 South 214th Street, Gretna, NE 68028.

The general nature of the business is to transact all lawful business for which a limited liability company may be organized under the Nebraska law. The company was organized on January 24, 2019 and shall have a perpetual existence. Its purpose is to own, manage, and invest in real estate.

The affairs of the company are to be conducted by Member Managers as designated in the operating agreement.

Neil Hoebelheinrich, Member Manager First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 KATHRYN M. HEMENWAY, Attorney 5310 S. 139th Plaza, Suite 301 Omaha, Nebraska 68137 APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADE NAME Trade Name to be registered is: Precision Door Service Franchise Name of Applicant: R & D Group Inc. Address: 5523 S. 173rd Avenue, Omaha, NE 68135 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: February 9, 2006 General nature of business: Servicing and Repairing Garage Doors DEBRA J. ROSS Signature of Applicant or Legal Representative February 22, 2019

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • LEGAL NOTICES 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 BRIDGE HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Bridge Healthcare Solutions, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 4841 South 165th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68135. 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 February 5, 2019.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION OF LAMP RYNEARSON, INC. F/K/A LAMP, RYNEARSON & ASSOCIATES, INC. Notice is hereby given that the Articles of Incorporation of Lamp, Rynearson & Associates, Inc. have been amended and restated in their entirety as follow: Article 1 states the name of the Corporation as Lamp Rynearson, Inc. Article 2 states the Registered Office of the Corporation as 14710 West Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68154, and the Registered Agent as Brett J. Wawers.

Article 3 states the purpose.

Article 4 states the number of shares the Corporation is authorized to issue as 100,000 shares having a par value of $1.00 per share.

Article 5 states the Corporation shall have perpetual existence.

Article 6 states the provisions relating to amending the Articles.

Article 7 states that provisions relating to director liability.

Article 8 states the shareholders shall not have a preemptive right to acquire the unissued shares.

The Second Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation were filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on January 31, 2019.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Fulcrum I Carry, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company, filed its Statement of Dissolution with the Nebraska Secretary of State on February 11, 2019, 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 Member. Teri Mercer will wind up and liquidate the company’s business and affairs. If you have a claim against Fulcrum I Carry, LLC, 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 1601 Dodge Street, Suite 3800, Omaha, Nebraska 68102. A claim against Fulcrum I Carry, 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 February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 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 DKH CONSULTING, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that DKH Consulting, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 12015 Jefferson Plaza, Omaha, Nebraska 68137. 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 February 11, 2019.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 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 SPORTS HALL, LLC The name of the Company is The Sports Hall, LLC. The Designated Office of the Company is: 108 South 84th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68124.

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 February 7, 2019.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 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 NINETY-SIXTH MERIDIAN II, LLC The name of the Company is Ninety-Sixth Meridian II, LLC. The Designated Office of the Company is: 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. 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 February 8, 2019.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019

C R O K E R , H U C K , K A S H E R , D e W I T T, A N D E R S O N & GONDERINGER, L.L.C. 2120 South 72nd Street, Suite 1200 Omaha, Nebraska 68124 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF VERNON INDUSTRIES, LLC The name of the limited liability company is Vernon Industries, LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 23612 Berry Street, Elkhorn, NE 68022. The name and address of the initial agent for service of process is Timothy J. Vernon, 23612 Berry Street, Elkhorn, NE 68022.

By: Steven G. Ranum First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 C R O K E R , H U C K , K A S H E R , D e W I T T, A N D E R S O N & GONDERINGER, L.L.C. 2120 South 72nd Street, Suite 1200 Omaha, Nebraska 68124 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF BUTLER COUNTY SOLAR, LLC The name of the limited liability company is Butler County Solar, LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 2120 South 72nd Street, Suite 1200, Omaha, NE 68124. The name and address of the initial agent for service of process is Richard A. DeWitt, 2120 South 72nd Street, Suite 1200, Omaha, NE 68124.

By: Richard A. DeWitt First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 C R O K E R , H U C K , K A S H E R , D e W I T T, A N D E R S O N & GONDERINGER, L.L.C. 2120 South 72nd Street, Suite 1200 Omaha, Nebraska 68124 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF CROWN ROOFING, LLC The name of the limited liability company is Crown Roofing, LLC.The address of the initial designated office is 5050 South 162nd Street, Omaha, NE 68135. 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.

By: Steven G. Ranum First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 MATTHEW T. PAYNE, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF KYLE D. ROSE, D.O., P.C. Notice is hereby given of incorporation of KYLE D. ROSE, D.O., P.C. under the laws of the State of Nebraska as follows: 1. The name of the professional corporation is KYLE D. ROSE, D.O., P.C. 2. The number of shares that the professional corporation is authorized to issue is 10,000 shares of voting common stock.

3. The name of the initial registered agent is Thomas Waldron, and the address of the initial registered office is 8901 Indian Hills Drive, Suite 200, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

4. The name and address of the incorporator is KYLE D. ROSE, D.O., 19920 Dewey Ave, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022.

5. The general nature of the profession to be practiced by the Corporation is medicine and surgery.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 DANIEL J. WATERS, Attorney LAMSON, DUGAN and MURRAY, LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3743 NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF FRISKOPP HOLDINGS, 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 Friskopp Holdings, LLC. 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 February 8, 2019 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 February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 AMANDA M. BARRON, Attorney P.O. Box 597 Fremont, Nebraska 68026 LEGAL NOTICE TO THE DEFENDANT(s), SARA OMARA You are hereby notified that Credit Bureau Services, Inc., a corporation, filed its complaint in the County Court of DOUGLAS County, Nebraska on 11/08/2018 on Case Number CI18-24204, the object and prayer of which is to recover the sum of $1,741.44, plus interest, attorney fees and court costs. You are required to answer the complaint of the Plaintiff on or before 04/01/2019 or the allegations in said complaint will be taken as true and judgment entered accordingly.

CREDIT BUREAU SERVICES, INC., A CORPORATION First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 13625 California Street, Suite 110 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF AMENDMENT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Certificate of Organization of Phase 3 Ag, LLC has been amended to change the name of the limited liability company to Phase3 Ag, LLC. First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019

19

DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 13625 California Street, Suite 110 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF NKC CAFFEINE, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that NKC Caffeine, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The Designated Office Address of the Company is 17007 Marcy Street, Suite 2, Omaha, Nebraska 68118. The Registered Agent of the Company is Andrew A. Snyder, 17007 Marcy Street, Suite 2, Omaha, Nebraska 68118.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 ERICKSON l SEDERSTROM, P.C., Attorneys 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF EHG COMPANIES, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that EHG Companies, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company (the “Company”), has been duly organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska, 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.

The Company was organized for the purpose of engaging in the transaction of any lawful business and the performance of any lawful activities that a limited liability company may engage in under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Company 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 managing member.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 DENNIS P. LEE, Attorney LEE LAW OFFICE 2433 South 130th Circle, Suite 300 P.O. Box 45947 Omaha, Nebraska 68145 NOTICE OF SUIT TO: BRYAN P O'NEILL, 2419 Pierce St, Omaha NE 68105, you are hereby notified that on De-cember 26, 2018, DWORAK FAMILY PROPERTIES filed a suit against you in the Douglas County Court at docket CI18-26888, the object in prayer of which was to secure a judgment against you in the amount of $7,290.00, together with court costs, interest and attorney's fees as allowed by law. Unless you file your Answer with the Douglas County Court on or before the 8th day of April, 2019, the Petition against you will be considered as true and judgment will be entered against you accordingly.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 8, 2019 JAMES R. SACOMAN, Attorney 2580 South 90th Street Omaha, Nebraska 68124-2092 LEGAL NOTICE In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR19-152 Estate of Violet Cunnignham Duree, Deceased Notice is hereby given that on February 8, 2019, in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, the Clerk-Magistrate issued a written statement of Informal Probate of the Will of said Deceased and that MARGARET M. CUNNINGHAM, whose address is 8767 Larimore Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska 68134, has been appointed Personal Representative of this estate.

Creditors of this estate must file their claims with this Court, located at Courtroom No. 30, Third Floor, Probate Division, Douglas County Hall of Justice, 17th & Farnam Streets, Omaha, NE 68183, on or before April 15, 2019 or be forever barred.

CARROL L. MILLS Registrar First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019

THOMAS H. PENKE, Attorney 12020 Shamrock Plaza, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68106-1046 LEGAL NOTICE In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR19-166 Estate of Richard Edward Postert, Deceased Notice is hereby given that on February 11, 2019, 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 Paul T Marron, whose address is 11206 Smithfield Road, Manassas, Virginia 20112 has been appointed Personal Representative of this estate.

Creditors of this estate must file their claims with this Court, located at Courtroom No. 30, Third Floor, Probate Division, Douglas County Hall of Justice, 17th & Farnam Streets, Omaha, NE 68183, on or before April 15, 2019 or be forever barred.

CARROL L. MILLS Registrar First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 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 1026 N 33rd, LLC The name of the Company is 1026 N 33rd, LLC. The Designated Office of the Company is: 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. 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 February 8, 2019.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019

20

• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal

LEGAL NOTICES KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF AMENDED CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION OF LUNCHBUNCH, L.L.C. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Certificate of Organization of Lunchbunch, L.L.C. has been amended to change the name of the limited liability company to Wonder Bunch, LLC and to change the registered agent and office to Koley Jessen, P.C., L.L.O., 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The Amended Certificate of Organization was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on February 5, 2019.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 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 SOLID ROOFING & EXTERIORS LLC The name of the Company is Solid Roofing & Exteriors LLC. The Designated Office of the Company is: 503 South 36th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68105. 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 February 1, 2019.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION Kirat Rai Yayokha of Nebraska, Inc., a public benefit non-profit corporation with members, with its registered agent and office as Buddha Rai, 9206 Summit Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68122, has been formed on January 25, 2019 by the incorporators: Shreeman Rai, 9168 Scott Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68122; Jag Rai, 8414 Hanover Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68122; Dil Rai, 9109 Black Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68122; Santa Rai, 9146 Summit Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68122; and Dhan Rai, 9109 Black Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68122.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that Ohana Pools, L.L.C. (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the Company is 9603 Emmet Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68134. The registered agent of the Company is Julie McCoy, 3015 N. 90th Street, Ste. 7, Omaha, Nebraska 68134. The Company was formed on February 1, 2019.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 BRANDON K. DICKERSON, Attorney LIKES MEYERSON HATCH LLC 444 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OFAMENDMENT TO CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION CHANGE OF NAME The Certificate of Organization of SKY IS THE LIMIT INVESTMENT LLC has been amended, changing the name of the company from SKY IS THE LIMIT INVESTMENT LLC to SKIES THE LIMIT INVESTMENT LLC, effective January 29, 2019. All other provisions of the Certificate of Organization remain unchanged.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 BRANDON K. DICKERSON, Attorney LIKES MEYERSON HATCH LLC 444 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF CDIGNE LLC Notice is hereby given that CDIGNE 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 initial designated office and registered office of the Company is 444 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114, and the Company’s initial agent for service of process at such address is Brandon K. Dickerson.

First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019 TIEDEMAN, LYNCH, KAMPFE, McVAY & RESPELIERS, Attorneys 6910 Pacific Street, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68106-1045 LEGAL NOTICE In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR19-80 Estate of Susan M. Carroll, Deceased Notice is hereby given that on February 1, 2019, in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, the Registrar issued a written statement of Informal Probate of the Will of said Deceased and that Dorothy S. McNamara, whose address is 15214 Redwood Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68138, has been appointed Personal Representative of this estate.

Creditors of this estate must file their claims with this Court, located at Courtroom No. 30, Third Floor, Probate Division, Douglas County Hall of Justice, 17th & Farnam Streets, Omaha, NE 68183, on or before April 8, 2019 or be forever barred.

CARROL L. MILLS Registrar First publication February 8, 2019, final February 22, 2019

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that MVL Enterprises, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company, is organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska, as of January 24, 2019, with its registered office at 3948 V Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68107, and with Tiffany E. Thompson as its initial agent for service of process at 4611 S. 96th Street, Suite 250, Omaha, NE 68127.

The general nature of its business is to engage in and to do any lawful act and any and all lawful business for which a limited liability company may be organized under the laws of Nebraska.

First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 ALLAN M. ZIEBARTH, Attorney 1702 South 10 Street, Suite 2 Omaha, Nebraska 68108 NOTICE OF AMENDMENT TO THE CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION On 02/06/2019, GREAT PLAINS ALTERNATIVE MEDICAL SOLUTIONS, LLC filed an AMENDMENT TO THE CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION changing its name to : GREAT PLAINS SEED CO., LLC First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 ALLAN M. ZIEBARTH, Attorney 1702 South 10 Street, Suite 2 Omaha, Nebraska 68108 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF DAHL FAMILY FARM LLC Designated Office: 1702 S. 10 St., Suite 2, Omaha, NE 68108 Initial Agent/Address For Service: Allan M. Ziebarth/1702 S. 10 St., Suite 2, Omaha, NE 68108 First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 ALLAN M. ZIEBARTH, Attorney 1702 South 10 Street, Suite 2 Omaha, Nebraska 68108 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF R & J HOLDINGS, LLC Designated Office: 1702 S. 10 St., Suite 2, Omaha, NE 68108 Initial Agent/Address For Service: Allan M. Ziebarth/1702 S. 10 St., Suite 2, Omaha, NE 68108 First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 ALLAN M. ZIEBARTH, Attorney 1702 South 10 Street, Suite 2 Omaha, Nebraska 68108 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF PAULLY SK8, LLC Designated Office: 1702 S. 10 St., Suite 2, Omaha, NE 68108 Initial Agent/Address For Service: Allan M. Ziebarth/1702 S. 10 St., Suite 2, Omaha, NE 68108 First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 ALLAN M. ZIEBARTH, Attorney 1702 South 10 Street, Suite 2 Omaha, Nebraska 68108 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF HEMP WHOLESALERS DIRECT, LLC Designated Office: 1702 S. 10 St., Suite 2, Omaha, NE 68108 Initial Agent/Address For Service: Allan M. Ziebarth/1702 S. 10 St., Suite 2, Omaha, NE 68108 First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 RUSSELL S. DAUB, Attorney 2800 South 110th Court, Suite 1 Omaha, Nebraska 68144-4818 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION FOR INCONTRO HOLDINGS, L.L.C. Notice is hereby given that a Company has been formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The name of the Company is INCONTRO HOLDINGS, L.L.C. The address of the registered office is 16325 Grover Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68130 and the name of the company’s initial registered agent is CYNTHIA INCONTRO. The Company shall engage in any lawful business for which a Company may be formed under the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act. The Company commenced busi-ness on February 12, 2019, and its duration shall be perpetual. The affairs of the Company are to be conducted by its Members.

First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF THE NIGHT WRITER, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that The Night Writer, LLC, has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address is 1410 N. 160th Street, Omaha, NE 68118, and the registered agent is Phillip V. Clark. The general nature of the business is to write and edit articles for businesses in any industry.

First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF GBR ADVISORS, LLC Notice is hereby given that GBR Advisors, LLC has been organized as a limited liability company under Nebraska laws, with its designated office at 640 N 156th Ave, Omaha, NE 68118. 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 November 29, 2018. Its affairs are to be conducted by Brian Christensen. Its registered agent is Brian Christensen and his office is located at 640 N 156th Ave, Omaha, NE 68118.

First publication February 15, 2019, final March 1, 2019 BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 10305 Joseph Circle La Vista, Nebraska 68128 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF BRANDED PROPERTIES, 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 Branded Properties, 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., 10305 Joseph Circle, La Vista, NE 68128. The designated office is located at 15605 Parker Circle, Omaha, NE 68118.

Trevor Brandenburgh, Member First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 10305 Joseph Circle La Vista, Nebraska 68128 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF BRANDED HOLDING, 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 BRANDED HOLDING, INC. The corporation is authorizied to issue 10,000 shares of common stock. The name and street address of the corporation’s initial registered agent is Law Offices of Barbara Medbery-Prchal, P.C., L.L.O., 10305 Joseph Circle, La Vista, NE 68128, and its incorporator is Trevor Brandenburgh, 15605 Parker Circle, Lincoln, NE 68037.

Trevor Brandenburgh, Incorporator First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 10305 Joseph Circle La Vista, Nebraska 68128 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF YGG, 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 YGG, 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., 10305 Joseph Circle, La Vista, NE 68128. The designated office is located at 17117 Burt Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68118.

Yelena Ginzburg, Member First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 10305 Joseph Circle La Vista, Nebraska 68128 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF SHELTON HOME SERVICES, 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 SHELTON HOME SERVICES, 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., 10305 Joseph Circle, La Vista, NE 68128.

The designated office is located at 2514 S. 119 Street, Omaha, NE 68144.

Mackenzie Shelton, Member First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019

NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF FANTASY DRIVE, INC. Registered Office: 7914 West Dodge Road, Omaha, Nebraska, 68114 The Corporation shall engage in any lawful business for which a corporation may be formed under the Nebraska Model Business Corporation Act. Authorized capital stock is $10,000 to be fully paid and non-assessable on issue. Perpetual existence commenced January 3, 2018, when articles were filed with the Secretary of State. Affairs are to be conducted by the Board of Directors and Officers authorized by the Bylaws and the Board.

Alvin C. Okereke, Incorporator First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019

BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 10305 Joseph Circle La Vista, Nebraska 68128 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF MAGNI STONE, 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 Magni Stone, 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., 10305 Joseph Circle, La Vista, NE 68128. The designated office is located at 13353 A Street, Omaha, Nebraska.

Brandon Magni, Member First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019

BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 10305 Joseph Circle La Vista, Nebraska 68128 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF PALMER SCHOOL OF MASSAGE, 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 Palmer School of Massage, 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., 10305 Joseph Circle, La Vista, NE 68128.

The designated office is located at 15555 Walnut Drive, Omaha, NE 68144.

Deborah J. Palmer, Members First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019

BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 10305 Joseph Circle La Vista, Nebraska 68128 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF JEN CONGER MARKETING, 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 Jen Conger Marketing, 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., 10305 Joseph Circle, La Vista, NE 68128. The designated office is located at 19905 Blondo Parkway, Elkhorn, NE 68022.

Jennifer Conger, Member First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • LEGAL NOTICES BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 10305 Joseph Circle La Vista, Nebraska 68128 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF ANGELA J TURNER, 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 ANGELA J TURNER, 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., 10305 Joseph Circle, La Vista, NE 68128.

The designated office is located at 8217 N. 172nd Street, Bennington, Nebraska 68007.

Angela J. Turner, Member First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 10305 Joseph Circle La Vista, Nebraska 68128 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF LYN ECHTER REAL ESTATE, 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 LYN ECHTER REAL ESTATE, LLC. The company is organized to render real estate sales services. The name and street address of the company’s initial registered agent is Law Offices of Barbara Medbery-Prchal, P.C., L.L.O., 10305 Joseph Circle, La Vista, NE 68128.

The designated office is located at 2541 N. 159th Street, Omaha, NE 68116.

Lynn Echter, Member First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 13625 California Street, Suite 110 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF CV BUILDING GROUP, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that CV Building Group, 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 98102. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 13625 California Street, Suite 110, Omaha, Nebraska 68154.

First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 13625 California Street, Suite 110 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF CVC INVESTMENTS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that CVC Investments, 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 98102. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 13625 California Street, Suite 110, Omaha, Nebraska 68154.

First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 DANIEL J. WATERS, Attorney LAMSON, DUGAN and MURRAY, LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3743 NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF MARISSA FRICKE, 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 Marissa Fricke, LLC. 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 February 19, 2019 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 February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 PATRICK M. FLOOD, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF cozyElegance, LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of cozyElegance, LLC. 1. The name of the limited liability company is cozyElegance, LLC. 2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 1013 Howard Street, #2, Omaha, Nebraska 68102, and the name and street address of the registered agent for service of process is Patrick M. Flood, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska, 68114.

First publication February 22, 2019, final March 8, 2019 APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADE NAME Trade Name to be registered is: CONTENT EQUALS MONEY Name of Applicant: CONTENT EQUALS MONEY NE, LLC Address: 1309 S. 204TH ST, STE 287 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 1, 2018 General nature of business: CONTENT DEVELOPMENT SERVICES ANGELA SCHMIT Signature of Applicant or Legal Representative February 22, 2019

BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 10305 Joseph Circle La Vista, Nebraska 68128 APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADE NAME Trade Name to be registered is: JP LAWN & LANDSCAPE Name of Applicant: JORDAN PECHAR Address: 9606 LINDEN AVENUE, BELLEVUE, NE 68147 Applicant is an Individual If other than an Individual, state under whose laws entity was formed: Date of first use of name in Nebraska: FEBRUARY 1, 2019 General nature of business: LAWN AND LANDSCAPE JORDAN PECHAR Signature of Applicant or Legal Representative February 22, 2019 KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADE NAME Trade Name to be registered is: Lamp Rynearson Name of Applicant: Lamp Rynearson, Inc. Address: 14710 West Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha, NE 68154 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: January 31, 2019 General nature of business: consulting, civil engineering and land surveying RICHARD D. VROMAN Signature of Applicant or Legal Representative February 22, 2019

21

New post-retirement job: making the world a better place

by Janet Kidd Stewart

Retirement experts often recommend working longer as a way to make savings outlive the saver, but it isn’t always easy.

Burnout, age discrimination, health issues and new technologies that eliminate jobs or make veteran workers’skills outdated conspire against those who try.

There is a growing wave of hope, however, that saving the world — or at least taking a shot at making it a retirement better place — may be the answer.

“Are people working well into their retirement years because they want to or need to? I think it’s both,” said Chris Farrell, senior economics commentator for American Public Media radio and author of “Purpose and a Paycheck: Finding Meaning, Money and Happiness in the Second Half of Life.” “They don’t necessarily want to do the same thing they’ve been doing for 30 years, but they do want to do something they believe in.”

Farrell’s new book highlights several late-career changers who were motivated by some notion of finding a new value, or purpose, to their work. That didn’t necessarily mean jobs in the non-profit sector. Often, they were entrepreneurial. The trick is finding work that engages the brain or the heart in some fundamental way, and often that means doing some good as we do well, he said.

Another recent book by Encore.org President Marc Freedman, “How to Live Forever: The Enduring Power of Connecting the Generations,” calls on the 50-plus demographic to connect with younger generations, or as the Greek proverb says to “plant trees under whose shade they will never sit.”

Meanwhile, several university-based programs are creating learning communities for late-career professionals transitioning to new ventures, paid or unpaid. They all differ in cost, content and aim, but they encourage the notion of older workers redeploying skills or giving back in some way. Among them: Harvard (advancedleadership.harvard.edu), Stanford (dci.stanford.edu), University of Minnesota (umn.edu/umac), Notre Dame (ili.nd.edu) and University of Texas at Austin (towerfellows.utexas.edu). Stanford’s application process has closed for this year, but the others are open.

Full disclosure: I’m participating in Minnesota’s Advanced Careers Initiative this academic year, along with 15 others. The program’s signature is an internship-type volunteer experience with a local organization.

“For many people these encore careers are a chance to do something meaningful with today’s longer, healthier lifespans,” said Phyllis Moen, founding director of the Minnesota program, which charges $15,000 for the academic year. Harvard’s program, which costs $68,000, takes a full year.

Like any endeavor, there are challenges. Among them: designing curriculum and time schedules that appeal to both retirees and those still working, and getting campus communities used to dealing with older students.

Our Minnesota group includes Jeff Buchanan, 67, a former business consultant who in November won a seat on the Wayzata, Minn., city council. He’s using the fellowship experience to inform the transition, studying ways to elevate environmental sustainability issues in his new role.

Sarah Meek, 60, is volunteering as a consultant to Be The Match, operated by the National Marrow Donor Program. The assignment is personal; four years ago, the veteran marketing executive was a stem cell donor for a family member.

After a long career in human resources with a large medical devices company, Anne Colombo, 60, is volunteering with Prepare + Prosper, a Minneapolis organization that offers free tax preparation for low- and moderate-income filers.

Meanwhile, at Harvard, Meredith Callanan is researching ways to improve early childhood education. Previously, the 55-year-old worked in leadership and marketing roles for a large financial services firm.

“We’ve now been doing this long enough to have created a global leadership force,” said Meredith Rosenthal, who recently took over as director of Harvard’s Advanced Leadership Institute.

With nearly 300 program alumni who have participated in individual projects since 2008, she’s exploring ways to re-engage them as a group around major social problems.

As Moen put it, “With these new time horizons in life, we’re recognizing that at age 60 we might just be getting started, and we can take a risk on something that will bring personal renewal through something that also has a strong social mission.” ©2019 Tribune Content Agency Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

22

• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal

If your co-workers act like you are a bully, you probably are

by Liz Reyer

Q: I don’t think I’m a work bully. But my team is treating me like I am. They don’t tell me what they really think when we discuss strategies at work and seem to avoid me a bit. Overall, I’d say I don’t have many very satisfying personal relationships at the office. What should I do?

-Greg, 42, VP of WorkplAce strategic planning A: It’s mirror time.

Be honest with yourself. Start with this question: If you don’t behave like a bully, why would people treat you as if you do?

That’s a serious question, because your team’s behavior is coming from somewhere. If you want to have better work relationships, you need to understand what’s driving their interactions with you.

Take a close look at the ways you engage with people. Describe the most recent time you were in a meeting and someone disagreed with you. How did you react?

Pretend you are describing someone else’s behavior or watching it in a movie to help you focus on the actions and not on your feelings and motivations.

Do you yell? Insult? Just shut them down? If any of these things happen, people will stop offering opinions to avoid your wrath. If you are unpredictable in your reactions to things, you are creating a volatile environment in which it’s just safer to stay away.

I’m wondering if you read this and immediately started making excuses to justify your behavior. This would be another indication that you are, in fact, a bully.

It doesn’t matter that you just have a

bad temper, you had a hard childhood, or that your past bosses were difficult so you don’t know better. You are responsible.

It also doesn’t matter how high your position is. From CEO to senator, manager to president, everyone has a responsibility to behave respectfully and kindly to others, even as they hold extremely high standards for work performance.

There’s no coddling for you here.

So what are you going to do? If you want to be real with yourself, own your behavior, and find new ways to interact, keep reading.

A leaner Sears emerges from bankruptcy, but can it survive?

by Lauren Zumbach

In some ways, the “new” Sears has a lot in common with the company that filed for bankruptcy protection in October.

Its largest shareholder is now its owner. The U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York approved a $5.2 billion bid by Sears Chairman Edward Lampert to buy the company through his hedge fund, ESL Investments, recently. retAil Plans outlined by ESL, including smaller stores and a focus on the retailer’s strengths like appliances, sound like initiatives Sears has pitched before, as losses mounted in the years leading up to the company’s bankruptcy.

But early attempts to put the strategy in place were hampered by Sears’ past financial challenges, said Mohsin Meghji, Sears’ chief restructuring officer and managing partner at M-III Partners, an advisory firm hired by Sears.

“It is a high-quality management team but all

Weddings

Omaha Business Journal Pages

A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands Business Journal

Topics may include: • • • • • • •

Figure out the first, most damaging, behavior you need to change.

If you have a habit of haranguing, notice when and why. Then figure out different ways to handle the situation.

Get to the root causes. If you holler when people fall short of your expectations, consider if you were actually clear on what you wanted (often expectations are unintentionally murky).

Also make sure they have the knowledge to achieve what you need done. And imagine how much more successful they’d be with training and mentoring.

Be transparent about the change you are trying to make. It’s an act of extreme vulnerability to look your team in the eye and admit you need to change.

While they may be skeptical and it may take time for them to see the change, the courage you show may help win them over.

Finally, don’t change because of the results you want to achieve.

Change because you want to be a better person. Benefits at work and the other parts of your life will follow, and you will be glad you did. ©2019 Star Tribune (Minneapolis) Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

2019 Weddings Overview Venues Catering/Cakes Technology and social media Fashion/bouquet/accessories trend Honeymoons and Destination Weddings Preserving Wedding Memories

Issue Date: March 8 • Ad Deadline: February 28 To advertise your company in this section, contact one of our MBJ advertising representatives at (402) 330-1760 or at the email addresses below.

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of their horsepower was largely focused around legacy issues related to contractual obligations, debt leverage and liquidity management,” Meghji said.

“Is there a place for a niche, appliance-focused retailer called Sears? Sure. But it has to be executed really well, and previously it wasn’t done as well as it could have been,” he said.

Now, Hoffman Estates-based Sears has another chance, this time with healthier finances after shedding debt, pension obligations and unprofitable stores in bankruptcy.

“As we embark on this new chapter, we look forward to continuing to build meaningful relationships with our members and customers, who rely on us for our trusted brands, services and convenience,” Sears said in a statement.

Experts who have watched the company’s struggles say it still has a tough battle ahead.

“There is a viable path, but it’s still a long shot,” said Craig Johnson, president of Customer Growth Partners, a retail consultant.

The new Sears will have 223 Sears and 202 Kmart stores, nearly half of which are in California, Florida, Pennsylvania, New York and Puerto Rico, according to court filings. That’s down from 687 when the retailer sought bankruptcy protection four months ago and 1,672 stores in January 2016.

Closing locations that don’t make money will help, but shrinking means giving up some of the economies of scale and power to negotiate with suppliers that bigger players enjoy, said Ray Wimer, assistant professor of retail practice at Syracuse University. Rivals like J.C. Penney and Kohl’s have more than 860 and 1,100 stores, respectively.

But even a smaller Sears is big enough to get some of those benefits, said Paula Rosenblum, co-founder and managing partner of RSR Research, a retail technology research firm.

“Vendors still want to see a healthy Sears,” Rosenblum said.

Lampert told The Wall Street Journal that he intends to sell or sublease some of Sears’ remaining 425 stores. Some of those stores are not profitable, and in financial forecasts ESL said it expected to bring in about $200 million a year through real estate sales over the next three years, according to court filings.

That means Sears could close more stores, though it’s also possible the company could continue leasing space in properties it sold or offset closures with new, smaller store openings.

In a business plan prepared as part of its proposal to buy the company, ESL said it sees an opportunity to invest in smaller stores like the new appliance-focused stores Sears opened in Texas, Colorado, Hawaii and Pennsylvania.

Those stores are between 7,000 and 20,000 square feet, while a typical Sears averages 138,000 square feet. The smaller stores special-

ize in selling appliances, but customers can also order other Sears products.

While Sears rival J.C. Penney recently announced it would stop selling items like refrigerators, washers and dryers, the strategy makes sense for Sears, which customers still see as a destination for those goods, Johnson said. He thinks Sears has a shot to pull off a turnaround if it can scale back and focus on its strong suits, like selling appliances, tools, exercise equipment and mattresses and its home services business.

Rosenblum said that path would have been easier if Sears had acted sooner. It now faces competition from retailers like Home Depot and Lowe’s, which have been attracting a growing share of consumers’ appliance dollars. According to ESL’s business plan, Sears is still the U.S.’ third-largest appliance retailer, behind those chains.

“Do I want to buy a big-ticket item I know is going to last a long time from a company that I don’t know is going to last a long time?

That’s the battle they’re going to be fighting,” Rosenblum said.

One of the most critical tasks the restructured company faces will be finding someone to lead it.

‘Retail isn’t for amateurs’ Lampert was Sears’ CEO from 2013 until its bankruptcy filing in October. Since then, Chief Financial Officer Robert Riecker, Chief Digital Officer Leena Munjal and soft lines President Greg Ladley have collectively led the company.

ESL said it intends to conduct a search for a CEO “with a record of success in managing platform businesses and effectuating large-scale dynamic transformation” in a news release Monday.

That means someone other than Lampert, with strong merchandising and turnaround credentials, retail experts said.

“Retail isn’t for amateurs,” Rosenblum said.

“To me, the best hope is he finds somebody he can bring in to run the chain, come up with a plan he can support and he gets out of the way.”

Lampert told The Wall Street Journal he would remain Sears’ chairman but intends to bring in a new CEO. “For long-term success, they don’t need a smart operator who can cut costs,” Meghji said.

“The key to is to find the right blend of marketing and merchandising skills. It needs to be somebody who knows how to connect with a group of customers who want a long-term relationship with the Sears ecosystem with both the retail network and the services platform.”

Despite the uphill battle, “I wouldn’t bet against these guys,” Meghji said. “I think there is a big segment of America who would like to see Sears rise again.” ©2019 Chicago Tribune Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 •

A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands BusinessJournal

Higher Education A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands Business Journal

Topics may include:

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Aviation in the Midlands A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands Business Journal

Topics may include:

Higher Education in the Midlands overview • Online learning MBA programs, other graduate degree programs • Self-directed learning Advanced certificate programs • Career development trends

Aviation in the Midlands overview • Improvements, upgrades Amenities/technology • Career/education outlook Corporations/business travelers

Issue Date: March 1 • Ad Deadline: February 21

Issue Date: March 1 • Ad Deadline: February 21

INVESTMENTS EMPLOYMENT & STAFFING 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:

Investments overview/outlook • Financial tips for baby boomers • Diversifying is key Retirement plan trends • Choosing an investment broker/financial adviser • Popular investing sectors Fountain of Youth: Financial advisers seek to connect with younger investors

Employment & Staffing overview • Job market outlook • Employee development Training trends • Attracting, retaining and rewarding • Temporary professionals Technology and social media • Negotiating a job offer/salary

Issue Date: March 8 • Ad Deadline: February 28

Issue Date: March 15 • Ad Deadline: March 7

To advertise your company’s products or services in one of our upcoming sections, contact one of our MBJ advertising representatives at (402) 330-1760 or at the email addresses below.

Julie Whitehead - Julie@mbj.com • Catie Kirby - ads@mbj.com

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• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal

Matt Kinsella

Robson

Shawn Kinsella

White

Omaha’s Securities America promotes Matt Kinsella, Robson, Shawn Kinsella, White, Homecillo, Weed and Beiting to new posts Securities America has promoted three employees to officer positions and four employees to director positions.

Matt Kinsella has been promoted to vice president and chief compliance officer. Kinsella joined Securities America in 2006. He received his bachelor ’s degree and MBA from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. He holds Series 7, 24 and 66 licenses and the Nebraska Life Homecillo and Annuity insurance license. Kinsella received the Accredited Investment Fiduciary designation, along with his Certified Regulatory and Compliance Professional designation from the FINRA Institute at Wharton.

Jeremy Robson has been promoted to vice president, advisory services, SAA. Robson joined Securities America in 2000. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and holds Series 7, 24 and 66 licenses and received the Behavioral Financial Advisor designation.

Shawn Kinsella has been promoted to first vice president, risk management. Kinsella joined Securities America in 2010.

He received his bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University and holds Series 7, 24 and 66 licenses.

Laura White has been promoted to director, registered investment advisor compliance. White joined Securities America in 2008. She received a bachelor’s degree from UNO. She holds Series 7, 24 and 66 licenses and the Investment Advis-

Werner selects Gibson as VP of operations in van network

Werner Enterprises has promoted Angelo Gibson to vice president of operations in the van network.

With more than 14 years of experience at Werner, Gibson began his career as an after-hours fleet coordinator. He has been integral in key initiatives, including technology strategies, improving the Gibson professional driver experience and strengthening the company’s owner operator and truck leasing programs.

er Certified Compliance Professional designation.

Theresa Homecillo has been promoted to director, licensing and registration. Ho-

Weed

Beiting

mecillo joined Securities America in 2008.

She received her bachelor’s degree from Creighton University and holds Series 7 and 24 licenses.

Mary Frances Weed has been promoted to director, compliance communication review. Weed joined Securities America in 2010. She received a bachelor’s degree from Missouri Western State University and holds Series 4, 7, 24, 53, 63 and 66 licenses.

Alex Beiting has been promoted to director, financial investigations unit.

Beiting joined Securities America in 2008. He received his bachelor’s degree from UNO and is a former Marine. He holds Series 7 and 24 licenses, in addition to Nebraska Life, Health and Annuity insurance licenses.

Mutual of Omaha selects Stevens as VP, Information Services team

Mutual of Omaha has promoted Cindy Stevens to vice president, Information Services Applications.

Stevens provides strategic technology direction and leadership to Mutual of Omaha’s Information Services Enterprise Applications Division.

Stevens joined Mutual of OmaStevens ha as a programmer analyst in 1986. She received several promotions in Information Services, with more than 19 years of experience in an Information Technology leadership role. Before assuming her current position, she served as director, Information Services, a position she held since 2015. Stevens received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska at Kearney.

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 •

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Daake’s move to new space propels branding company to greater growth Continued from page 1. impact of our work, and so we’re building out our strategy practice more fully and growing our implementation practice more fully,” he said.

The firm specializes in helping guide companies through brand development, strategy and design, rebranding, websites and marketing campaigns, and incorporates experiential design that aligns with the brand and culture using wall graphics, colors, fabrics and lighting.

“Just think about when you walk into a

place, you almost understand it in about five seconds,” he said. “You can smell the culture, which is a piece of this. You can tell what matters to them.”

When people walk through Daake’s doors, the feeling is “kinetic” — from its signature Burberry-inspired wallpaper to the delineation of space using a diagonal half wall, to bright pops of orange and sky blue to the sit/stand desks and tables — with areas where designers and clients can collaborate, private spaces for meetings and fleshing out ideas, and smaller rooms devoted to specific

projects. The design was intentionally created for movement — a “nomadic work environment” — which in turn can help generate ideas.

With 10 employees currently, the firm has room for up to 36 people.

“There’s a little bit of a fishbowl effect where a little fish is in a little fishbowl and it can’t grow, even if it’s psychological, not necessarily physiological,” he said. “I like that now we have a place to put people.”

With an 8,000-square-foot patio that overlooks a golf course, large conference

Gross & Welch promotes Wachal

Deaver

O’Keefe

Estwick

Langdon

Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman appoints Deaver to partner, adds O’Keefe, Estwick, Langdon and Johnson as law firm associates

Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman LLP progree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln moted Andrew P. Deaver partner of the firm and and his J.D. from the Creighton University added Kevin J. O'Keefe, Christopher School of Law. During law school, O. Estwick, Peter M. Langdon and he served as the executive editor M. Tyler Johnson as associates. of the Creighton Law Review.

Deaver focuses his practice on Langdon is currently pursuing his estate planning, probate and trust LL.M. in taxation from Villanova administration, guardianships and University and will graduate in the conservatorships, and business fall of 2019. organizational and contractual matJohnson assists clients in a ters. He is an active volunteer in the variety of matters, including entity U.S. Small Business Association’s formation, corporate governance, SCORE, assisting future business intellectual property, real estate, owners with startup considerations. general business law matters, and Johnson Deaver received his bachelor’s deestate planning. Johnson graduated gree in chemistry from Dordt College and his from Wayne State College and earned his J.D. J.D. from the Creighton University School of from Creighton University School of Law, Law. Deaver joined the firm as an associate. He where he was a member of the National Moot is admitted to practice in Nebraska and Iowa.

Court Team.

O'Keefe brings more than 10 years of exScoular selects Bailey as director of perience to the firm’s litigation team. He will focus on insurance defense, insurance coverage brand marketing, communications opinions, commercial litigation, estate litigation The Scoular Co. has hired Amy Bailey and criminal defense. Prior to joining the firm, as director of brand marketing & corporate O’Keefe worked in private practice as a civil communications. litigator and spent two years as an assistant Bailey recently Ford County attorney in Dodge City, Kansas, served as senior diwhere he gained trial experience. O’Keefe rector of brand, buzz received his bachelor’s degree from Rutgers and insights marketUniversity and his J.D. from Washburn. He’s ing for Blue Cross admitted to practice in Nebraska, Kansas, Ohio and Blue Shield of and New Jersey.

Nebraska, where she Estwick has joined the firm’s business oversaw all marketdepartment. Estwick focuses his practice on ing, corporate combusiness and corporate law with an emphasis munications, brandin intellectual property and technology law, ing and corporate Bailey corporate structuring, commercial lending, social responsibility franchising, and real estate matters. He received activities. In addition to her experience at his bachelor’s degree from Creighton UniverBCBSNE, Bailey worked as a strategic sity and his J.D. from the University of Iowa business consultant for Right Management, College of Law, where he served as a note and held a variety of marketing positions with comment editor for the Journal of Corporation Applebee’s International and Kraft Foods, Law and received the Willard L. Boyd Public and ran her own executive coaching and Service Award. marketing business. She is an adjunct Langdon focuses his practice on corporate professor at the College of Business Admatters, commercial transactions, and employministration at the University of Nebraska ment law. Langdon received his bachelor’s deat Omaha.

The Omaha law firm of Gross & Welch has elected Adam J. Wachal to shareholder.

Wachal received his law degree from Creighton University in 2010, where he graduated with honors. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Neb r a s k a . Wa c h a l ’s practice has been primarily focused on civil litigation, insurance defense, Wachal insurance coverage litigation and appellate practice. Wachal is a member of the Nebraska State Bar Association, Iowa State Bar Association and the Omaha Bar Association.

He is licensed to practice in Nebraska and Iowa.

Okerlund

Millage

American National Bank adds Okerlund and Millage to staff

American National Bank has added Melissa Okerlund and Laura Millage.

Okerlund has joined American National Bank as vice president of treasury management. She has more than 22 years of experience in the financial industry, focusing on the collection, handling and practice of cash management. She works to deliver customized financial solutions for her clients. Okerlund’s product and industry knowledge, along with customer service experience, offers a personalized approach.

Millage has been named vice president of treasury management. Millage joins American National Bank with more than 19 years of industry knowledge. She works to enhance businesses earnings and efficiencies. She received a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Iowa State University.

She currently serves as the board secretary of Nebraska Association of Financial Professionals.

rooms, a kitchen/café area, shuffleboard and a Kegerator, Daake said he envisions hosting meetings for nonprofits, inviting guest speakers and facilitating conferences, and possibly serving as an alternate workspace for area marketers and designers.

The firm works closely with clients when they’re at pivotal moments and strives

Daake Design Phone: 402-933-2959 Address: 801 S. 169th St., Omaha 68118 Services: brand strategy and design, focusing on rebranding at pivotal moments Founded: 2001 Employees: 10 Goals: Developing the firm’s strategy and implementation practices more fully, adding to the team and attracting more local and national clients.

Industry outlook: There will be more of a focus on creating a balance between technology and human beings.

Website: daake.com

for a “grassroots understanding” to guide companies and company leaders through the branding/rebranding process.

“We’ve been able to waltz with [our clients] in those scary moments and say, ‘it’s going to be fine, rest assured we’ve done our homework,’” he said.

Major clients with ongoing work include Children’s Hospital & Medical Center, First National Bank and Iowa Western Community College. A few notable rebranding projects include Buildertrend, OrthoNebraska, Delasco, Mag 1 motor oil and Polar winter automotive products.

Generally, the firm averages 75 to 125 open projects at any one time, Daake said.

About 10 clients have consistent, ongoing work.

He said that after the rebranding of Council Bluffs-based Delasco, the company experienced 10 percent growth after six years of flat sales, indicating a healthy return on investment.

“I don’t think there’s a more powerful way to signal change than [rebranding],” he said.

“You can send out a memo, you can hire a new CEO. But when there’s a new flag to salute, when you can put a punctuation mark on the past and signal a new era, I think it’s one of the most powerful things to do for organizations.”

The 18-year-old firm’s growth has been organic over the years, depending on its clients — with major growth spurts along the way followed by incremental growth, Daake said.

Daake founded his eponymous design firm in 2001 after stints as an art director for a corporation post-graduation, then working for a design firm. He realized his drive was in understanding the root of the problem.

Coupled with the existential shock after the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, he decided to start his own company.

“I wanted to get closer to the problem — I’ve always fell in love with the problem, that’s when time goes by,” he said. “Being closer to the problem meant something to me, and that was getting closer to the client. That was walking the halls of the organization. That was hearing about leadership’s intentions, not just taking orders off a sheet and making something pretty or cool or interesting … that was the driving force.”

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• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal

ENGINEERING PROFESSION

A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands Business Journal

FEBRUARY 22, 2019

Innovative delivery methods present opportunities for better project outcomes

by Michelle Leach

Challenges and opportunities abound amid old infrastructure and new technologies.

Olsson Associates President Ryan Beckman referred to growth driven by tech and cost-efficient solutions in energy, water, transportation, telecom, government and facilities markets.

“The connectivity from design to completion of construction is an area that we constantly monitor,” he said.

“With changing technology and new design software occurBeckman ring at a rapid pace, the interface between all the parties involved — owners, contractors, engineers, architects — is even more critical to make sure the project is a success.”

Beckman referred to maintaining professional integrity while remaining open to new and innovative design and construction ideas.

Alvine Engineering Associate Principal Richard A. Woodson said there are $3 billion-plus projects in various stages of plan-

Associate Principal Richard Woodson at Alvine Engineering. ning and design that will require engineering He highlighted “traditional” designover the coming years. bid-build methods, as well as design-build “Our clients continually challenge us to delivery, construction manager-at-risk and deliver innovative projects faster, cheaper project management-led, which are effective and better,” he said. when aligned with program requirements

and owner expectations; for example, design-build via health care projects and Eppley Airfield terminal expansion and project management-led Omaha Public Schools’ 2014 and 2018 bond issue projects.

While the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED program continues to be a standard for sustainability, Woodson said many LEED principles are now “code-required minimums.”

Therefore, Alvine is defining and driving energy efficiency through net-zero principles, whereby the building’s annual delivered energy is Tondl less than (or equal to) the onsite renewable exported energy (plus acquired Renewable Energy Certificates).

With record low unemployment nationally, especially in Nebraska, Woodson also noted how clients are asking engineers to explore how new buildings and enhancements can be used as a recruiting tool, including performance-based WELL Building principles. Set by the International WELL Building Institute, it measures the built environment’s impact on human health and Continued on next page.

Engineering Profession •

The new Creighton School of Dentistry.

(Courtesy of Alvine Engineering)

Delivery methods Continued from preceding page. provides a model of human health features for structures — like a “nutrition label” for a building, Woodson said, measuring the likes of light and comfort.

Alvine’s new corporate headquarters within a 90,000-square-foot mixed-use building at 1207 Cass St. is reportedly awaiting final approval to become the state’s first WELL Building-certified space.

HDR Senior Vice President Matt Tondl said the local industry is changing as dramatically as the industries served; for example, society-wide electrification will transform

the transportation sector while simultaneously requiring power industry reinvention.

“A top-of-mind challenge for the industry is how we replace aging infrastructure with solutions that stay relevant,” he said.

Tondl underscored how infrastructure can deliver shared value to the community; for instance, transit projects revitalize neighborhoods and wastewater treatment facilities also generate electricity. As more people take interest in the source of water and power, Tondl said the dynamics of how they plan and design infrastructure for the future is changing.

Lamp Rynearson CEO/President Nancy Continued on next page.

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 •

27

28

• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal • Engineering Profession

University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Business Administration.

(Courtesy of Energy Studio)

Innovative delivery methods present opportunities Continued from preceding page. constraints, much of the infrastructure fundPridal said all of the firm’s market areas are ing is going towards maintenance and not for expecting growth in 2019, albeit overall slower growth.” growth than in 2018.

She referred to the industry as “Despite strong current ecoan advocate to not only maintain, nomic conditions, we know they but also improve infrastructure. can’t last forever,” she said. “We Additionally, Pridal put a spothave the highest levels of debt ever light on Woodhouse Place Nissan, in the country at both public and Hyundai, Mazda and Lincoln car personal levels. With these rising dealerships at 144th Street and debt levels, the widening economic Giles Road, which incorporated disparity, rising health care costs, natural features preservation and and the increasing numbers of onsite stormwater management.

Americans living in poverty, the Other projects include the former economic growth we have been “West Farm” project, now HeartPridal experiencing does not seem to be wood Preserve, a 500-acre mixedsustainable.” use development at 144th and Pacific featuring In fact, she referred to how economists public trails, greenspaces, parkway and roundare predicting a potential recession in 2020 abouts and a 176-lot residential subdivision amid continued infrastructure, research and northeast of 180th Street and Cornhusker Road, development, and education spending needs.

Palisades West.

“One of the things that keeps us up at night Woodson highlighted Alvine’s work on is the lack of funding sources for infrastructure Creighton University’s 267,000-square-foot projects,” she said. “Because of the high cost School of Dentistry, served by Clearway Enand longevity of infrastructure, municipalities ergy’s district energy steam and chilled water must plan for the long view and, with budget to efficiently serve multiple building system needs; the new high school at 156th and Ida streets incorporating 21st-century educational delivery approaches and energy-efficiency; and Landmark Building redevelopment that presents a pedestrian connection to elements of riverfront redevelopment.

Tondl said HDR and partners are connecting walkable areas around Gene Leahy Mall, Heartland of America Park, and Lewis and Clark Landing as part of riverfront revitalization; its role in developing a detailed plan for connecting and guiding automated vehicles on Iowa’s interstate system; MUD’s historic Minne Lusa pump station upgrades; and HDR’s new Aksarben Village headquarters spanning almost 255,000 square feet and SidePlate technology.

Using only bolted steel connections, the system reportedly saved 67 tons of steel over traditional structural methods — a The recently completed HDR headquarters.

(Courtesy of HDR) first for Nebraska.

Engineering Profession •

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 •

Labor, material costs challenge engineering projects

by Dwain Hebda

Labor shortages and material costs are significant issues affecting construction in Omaha, say executives from area engineering firms.

“Labor is having an impact on projects,” said Kim Cowman, senior mechanical project engineer with Leo A Daly. “The market’s busy right now in the Omaha area [and] there’s a lack of skilled labor — electrical, plumbing, sheet metal. That is impacting meeting completion dates.”

The labor market and abundant work has allowed many contractors and subcontractors to be highly selective, deepening the problem.

“Lots of contracCowman tors are busy. You’re not seeing as many competitive bids on projects because of that,” Cowman said. “You’ll see contractors and subcontractors pass on projects if they don’t really need the work or if a project is perceived as being difficult.”

Despite these challenges, Cowman said commercial development is likely to dominate the construction landscape in the near term.

“There’s a lot of commercial development going on around the city right now, a lot of large developer-led projects for commercial construction as well as more commercial tenant improvement, renovating existing buildings,” she said. “The continuation of

Civil Engineer and Principal Lana Bayless at DLR Group. school bonds being approved [means] K-12 costs have shown increases, but interest rates would continue to stay busy.” have remained relatively low to help offset.

Given market conditions, firms are being Project owners and design teams are also very more creative in operational areas to keep resourceful in funding mechanisms to help projects on time and on budget. fund projects.”

“All design professionals and members Some of ETI’s signature projects of late of the construction teams have been work- include the seven-story, 61,000-square-foot ing hard to keep schedules and timelines Peregrine Hotel at 203 South 18th St., comon normal pace,” said Justin Veik, principal pleted last year at a cost of between $8 million with Engineering Technologies Inc. “Project and $10 million. Another, the just-completed

29

Ashton Building at 13th and Nicholas streets, encompasses 188,000 square feet and came in between $16 million and $18 million.

A four-story office building with future lease space, The Ashton is the home of web hosting powerhouse Flywheel. Veik said similar projects are likely to dominate future development in the Omaha metro.

“The fastest growing category [of projects] right now is probably office,” he said.

“Mixed-use buildings continue to be built across the metro, now stretching into districts other than downtown.

I do not see Omaha’s construction and development market slowing down any time soon.”

Lana Bayless, principal with DLR Group, said technology is also helping firms be more efficient and effective when Veik managing projects.

“We have been utilizing virtual reality in our offices across the country to make better-informed decisions across teams and enhance our collaborations,” she said. “We are also using VR to assist our clients in visualizing the spaces we are designing for them. We recently hosted the Nebraska Department of Corrections in our Lincoln office to walk them through the BIM model of an in-design building addition to their Lincoln facility.”

Other technology at work includes reality capture, or 3D laser scanning, that gathers building and site topographic data, a crucial Continued on next page.

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• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal • Engineering Profession

Jerry McNerney, commissioning agent at Morrissey Engineering.

Building automation systems help make buildings smart, more efficient

by Jasmine Heimgartner functions, such as temperature, humidity, In an age of connectivity and access to pressurization, carbon dioxide and carbon information with one touch of a screen, along monoxide, mechanical, security and lighting. with increased focus on efficient energy con“Property owners can benefit from sumption and cost savings, enabling physical building controls since the equipment being structures with the technology to simplify controlled can be changed to fit and adapt to operational controls is becoming the needs of the owner,” said Jerry an important element of the engiMcNerney, commissioning agent, neering process.

Morrissey Engineering. “The ma“We live in an era where jority of new control systems will today’s buildings of any size allow the user to create schedules, and shape can become intelliadjust setpoints and monitor the gent buildings,” said Pat Killeen, conditions of the building onsite or president of Engineered Controls. even remotely. Controls also add “With open protocol technology, flexibility to remotely diagnose they can connect multiple subproblems with trend history and systems together, on one network, can generate energy savings by rather than operating them all adapting to conditions.”

Killeen independently — maximizing As energy costs continue to energy efficiency, lowering mainsoar, this kind of investment offers a longtenance costs and providing centralized term solution that can be adapted to changing building control.” needs. The ability to analyze a building’s Building automation systems (BAS) serve data and incorporate beneficial changes as a way to autonomously control energy-us- greatly impacts energy savings and provides ing systems in a building, whether a commer- a better assessment of equipment. Instead of cial property, school or other institution. At its unoccupied areas in the building using energy, core, a BAS provides control of a building’s owners can control where energy is needed.

“Building systems that are properly maintained and controlled will enable you to focus on the core of your business while ensuring Continued from preceding page. that everything is running efficiently,” Killeen advantage in complicated projects. said. “This also promotes longevity of equip“The data is extremely helpful as it paints ment, protection of employees and equipment a more accurate picture of existing conditions, due to proper security measures, and energy making the coordination between architec- efficiency, which will result in minimizing tural and engineering disciplines smoother operating costs and future unplanned capital and resulting in fewer unknown conditions,” expenditures.”

Bayless said.

For new construction, including a control DLR’s recent signature projects include system is becoming the norm. As technology a new $74 million high school slated for evolves, these enhanced tools for measure5616 L St., to be completed in 2022. Another ment and control can eliminate potential is the Nebraska Department of Corrections’ issues from becoming a problem.

NDCS Reception & Treatment Center in “Incorporating controls into the building Lincoln, a 124,000-square-foot, $75 million design, construction and planning are very project. The 20,000-square-foot Nebraska important,” McNerney said. “Newer equipOrgan Recovery (Live On Nebraska) Head- ment has more controllable points, and it is quarters was also completed in January at critical the process or sequence is defined or Continued on next page.

3867 Leavenworth St.

Labor, materials costs

Engineering Profession •

Smart, efficient buildings Continued from preceding page. it is possible the building owner will battle issues from discomfort to wasted energy use.

In this day and age with the complexity of systems, commissioning these projects can resolve many issues prior to owner occupancy.”

While a BAS is becoming a new factor in design and new construction, the technology makes it possible to turn an old building into a smart one.

“Existing buildings can be upgraded to control systems as the majority of equipment being controlled needs an input whether from a thermostat or control system,” McNerney said. “Every building will be different depending on the extent of the systems being controlled, but existing buildings would definitely benefit from this upgrade.”

As the world enters the age of the internet of things — in which devices in vehicles, homes, offices, etc. connect, interact and exchange data — the future of control systems will likely be an integral part of that future. While becoming a necessity, these systems are an investment, so it’s imperative to understand the need and everything it entails.

“Since the new construction industry consists of architects, consulting engineers, general contractors, mechanical contractors, etc., many of the basic decisions that are being made regarding system type, configuration, manufacturer, functionality, etc. are all being made by everyone except the customer,” Killeen said. “Get involved, ask questions, know what you want, and know what you are getting before the decision is made by everyone but you, the customer.”

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 •

31

Nebraska organizations spearhead E-Week activities

by David Kubicek

A variety of engineering organizations planned awards and activities for Engineers Week, taking place Feb. 17-23.

The primary goal of the Nebraska section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), which has over 750 members across the state, is to educate the public about the civil engineering profession.

“Much of this effort is geared toward students,” ASCE Nebraska resident Greg Seib said. “Our outreach events during E-Week range from engineering-related competitions for high school students to fun and educational activities in classrooms for elementary school students.”

Seib On Feb. 25 at the Peter Kiewit Institute on University of Nebraska at Omaha’s campus, ASCE Nebraska will host its annual Truss Bustin’ competition. High school students design and construct balsa wood trusses and then load test the truss to failure.

This competition educates students on the engineering design process and provides a hands-on approach to learning the basics of structural design.

The Omaha-based Engineers Roundtable focuses on providing information about engineering activities in and around the metro, especially around E-Week, according to Chair

Mark Walker, who is a manager of engineering at Zachry Engineering.

The Roundtable, which has 12 members, is formed through various organizations and clubs, those of which each send a representative to help plan the events for E-Week, the E-Week banquet in particular.

“This year’s E-Week banquet’s guest speaker is the VP and project director from HDR who oversaw HDR’s new headquarters

Walker Hunter project in Aksarben Village,” Walker said.

“The banquet also is an opportunity to bring together different engineering professionals who normally don’t get to see one another to do some networking and just talk.”

This year the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) hosted the annual banquet, which took place Feb. 15. Elizabeth Hunter, a civil engineer and planner with Snyder & Associates, said SWE provided an emcee for the event and shared some information about the organization with all attendees.

The other active organizations this year are American Society of Mechanical Engi-

neers (ASME), Society of American Military Engineers (SAME), National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC), Grenville M. Dodge Chapter of Iowa Engineering Society (IES), Structural Engineers Association of Nebraska (SEAoN), National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE), Construction Specifications Institute (CSI), American Society of Heating Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), and National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC).

McClure The Roundtable has proclamations for Omaha, Council Bluffs, and Lincoln as well as at the state level.

The NAWIC also holds its Block Kids event around E-Week, using creations from the competition as centerpieces for the banquet.

“We want as many people as possible to attend the activities where different areas of engineering can co-mingle with one another,” Hunter said. “When you’re a civil or mechanical engineer, most of the people you encounter at organization meetings are the same discipline as you are. It’s nice for us to know people in other disciplines and from Continued on next page.

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• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal • Engineering Profession

ACEC honors engineering profession with annual Excellence in Engineering Awards

by Gabby Christensen

The 2019 Excellence in Engineering Awards gala — the “Academy Awards” of the consulting engineering industry — hosted by the American Council of Engineering Companies, is held annually each February during E-Week, as a celebration intended to honor Nebraska member firms for design achievements of superior skill and ingenuity, according to Jeanne McClure, executive director of the American Council of Engineering Cos. “This year 27 projects were submitted that were then judged on a rigorous set of criteria, which includes complexity, innovation and value Thiele to society,” McClure said. “In addition to celebrating among peers, the EEA helps to publicize the many significant contributions consulting engineers make to the built environment not only in Nebraska but, throughout the nation.”

Dan Thiele, chairman/CEO of Thiele Geotech, is this year’s Charles Durham Achievement Award winner.

Thiele said he is truly honored to receive the recognition.

“I am grateful to be recognized for my efforts to better our community and the profession,” Thiele said. “This is really a recognition of the work of the entire Thiele Geotech team, as well as the many professional partners that we have collaborated with on both business and community projects. It is somewhat humbling to be recognized for your work by your peers who are most knowledgeable in the field.”

Ross Barron, bridge engineer-technical leader at Olsson, was named the Young Professional of the Year.

“This recognition affirms that the fulfillment I receive out of serving our local communities is appreciated and impactful,” Barron said. “It can be challenging in our industry to

balance what we can do from an engineering standpoint with the realities of the world. This recognition gives me further confidence to face the daunting challenges of the future.”

Barron said the ACEC Nebraska awards provide greater exposure for the role engineering plays in the community.

“Engineers are a group of highly skilled individuals who really advocate for the com-

Barron Neeman munity and who work hard to find solutions that improve our collective infrastructure,” Barron said. “Successful engineering takes a strong team of professionals that both challenge and support one another. At Olsson, I’m surrounded by fantastic people daily, and I am forever grateful for their passion and dedication toward our common mission in engineering.”

Alvine Engineering was another firm recognized during the annual event.

Gene Neemann, associate principal and electrical designer at Alvine Engineering, said the awards provide another opportunity for the company to gage its success beyond the number of proposals submitted or projects completed.

“Through this award, our peers throughout the industry communicate how we surpass expectations to truly lead engineering innovation,” Neemann said. “The purpose of the awards, and ACEC overall, is to highlight the level of innovation achieved by our firm, as well as, neighboring engineering firms.

We are creating awareness of the technical resources and expertise right here in Nebraska that are then used to improve projects all across the region.”

E-Week activities Continued from preceding page. other companies for knowledge-sharing and learning about things each of us might not encounter in our everyday careers.”

The nonprofit American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) has 52 chapters nationwide, according to Jeanne McClure, executive director of the Nebraska chapter, which has 47 members.

“Our main E-Week function is our engineering awards and banquet on Thursday evening [Feb. 21,]” McClure said. “Firms submit projects they have done.”

That evening ACEC Nebraska also celebrated its emerging leader class, which is made up of 15 to 20 individuals who have participated in a leadership class geared toward engineering.

The organization also celebrated the Durham Award winner, who this year is Dan Thiele, chairman and CEO of Thiele Geotech, and its young professional 35 or under, who this year is Ross Barron, technical leader at Olsson.

Engineering Profession •

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 •

33

As trends dictate industry needs engineering specialities expand

by Lee Nelson

Every profession has niches and specialties. Engineering is no different. These days, all types of new specializations in engineering are being created to help clients with specific needs.

For instance, the role of forensic engineer is steadily evolving with the growth of insurance claims and litigations, said Brad Lauritsen, forensic department manager and associate principal at KPE Engineers.

Research indiLauritsen cates insurance claims now exceed $100 billion annually in the U.S. You may rely on forensic engineers to reconstruct events that result in property, casualty or liability claims, to mitigate the cost of such claims and to recommend rapid, cost-effective repairs, he said. KPE is hired to investigate hundreds of insurance claims each year.

“One of the reasons for the steady business is ‘They don’t build them like they used to,’” he said. “As technology and building construction practices have evolved over the last 50 years, buildings, machines and components are not designed to last as long.

Building codes lack the innovation in construction by several years.”

Students interested in the field need to have an engineering degree first and should plan on becoming professionally licensed as minimum requirements. There are no degrees offered specifically in forensic engineering, he said.

Dave Moeller, president at Snyder & Associates, said the 100-year flood event in 2018 in central Iowa put Fourmile Creek in jeopardy, which put his engineering experts on streambank restoration to the test.

Prior to the flood, the creek experienced severe streambank erosion that left sanitary sewer infrastructures at risk for exposure, he said.

“Using natural channel design concepts and integrating ecological lift techniques, Snyder’s design team transformed an environmental liability into a community asset,” he said. “Mother Nature cannot be controlled, which is why we work in tandem with her to provide sustainable engineering through a mix of hard and green infrastructure improvements.”

Anna Grimes, civil engineering department manager at E&A Consulting Group, said civil engineering as a whole is evolving.

“We have learned that it is essential for

us to be involved at the planning stage,” she said. “Designing for those with limited mobility or cognitive impairments in medical and senior living facilities, for example, requires particular care in planning and layout.

ADA requirements cannot be an afterthought.”

Architects and land planners are trained to consider this bigger purpose, but engineers tend to focus primarily on details of functionality, she said. So learning both sides is the wave Burnham of the future.

“I anticipate we will start finding a way to incorporate virtual reality into our work,” Grimes said. “Our clients want to see a finished product, not imagine it. I imagine construction documents in virtual reality instead of paper drawings.”

Kris Burnham, associate principal at Specialized Engineering Solutions, said in the world of building design and construc-

Anna Grimes, civil engineering department manager at E & A Consulting. tion, the adoption of changing technology der to stay ahead of tailoring our solutions in has been accelerated by today’s abundance the building environment to the ever-changof communication. ing needs of the businesses that use them,” “These continual changes and advance- he said. “By becoming an inside advocate in ments reinforce a need for engineers to focus their market sector, we are able to continually Continued on next page. and specialize in certain market sectors in or-

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• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal • Engineering Profession

Renewables offer opportunities for engineers in energy sector

by Gabby Christensen

Opportunities continue to arise in the energy sector for engineers.

Michael Miller, vice president/project director at SCS Engineers, said renewables continue to be at the forefront of developer-led projects, with significant activity and interest in wind turbine and solar panel project development.

He said these projects involve traditional engineering disciplines when constructed, but also require significant environmental engineering efforts at the outset to assess and minimize environmental impacts.

According to Miller, one recent development creating opportunities in the energy sector is the Environmental Protection Agency’s Renewable Fuel Standard for 2019, issued as final rule on Nov. 30, 2018, which set the total U.S. renewable fuel volume at 19.92 billion gallons — approximately 3 percent higher than the 2018 mandate.

“This will continue to drive interest and investment in renewable energy such as ethanol and biogas related projects,” he said.

Additionally, Miller said the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, signed by President Trump Dec. 20, 2018, included annual funding of $25 million for the USDA to develop and test strategies for planning and implementing municipal compost plans and food waste reduction plans with a stated goal to divert waste from landfills.

President and CEO Michael Wallace at Farris Engineering.

“SCS Engineers, as a perennial No. 1 or Biogas Opportunities Task Force that will No. 2 solid waste engineering firm, believes focus on policies, programs and research to this current farm bill will lead to renewed and accelerate the growth of biogas systems and additional interest in anaerobic digester (AD) includes $1 million in annual funding for a gas projects,” he said. “We also noted the bill Carbon Utilization and Biogas Education includes plans to establish an Interagency Program, focused in part on identifying

opportunities to aggregate multiple organic waste streams into single biogas systems.”

Michael Wallace, president/CEO and electrical engineer at Farris Engineering, said distributed generation is a trend that is starting to gain traction in Nebraska.

“LES [Lincoln Electric System] has historically led the state in this arena but many of the smaller municipalities are starting to embrace solar or wind systems, and we are starting to see communities put together the funding to do these types of projects,” he said. “Solar systems continue to decrease in cost and while they are still not as cost effective as large-scale power plants, they are fairly simple to do on a small scale.”

Bogner Another benefit, according to Wallace, is that they can be installed near the areas they serve.

“They are relatively easy to maintain and that seems to be a big attraction to them over other renewable types of energy,” he said.

Alexander Skillman, director of internal operations at Energy Studio, said big data is a hot topic right now.

“We’re using large datasets from building management systems and analysis techniques that are more sophisticated than manipulating an Excel file to understand how a building operates and discover opportunities for energy savings,” Skillman said. “Programming languages like Python are making it easier for engineers to analyze and visualize big datasets to draw meaningful conclusions that lead to actionable recommendations.”

According to Amanda Bogner, president of Energy Studio, energy codes and standards for energy performance are continually driving down the energy intensity of buildings.

“Energy codes are evolving to encourage design teams to evaluate the total energy performance of a building instead of using prescriptive compliance checklists,” Bogner said. “This allows design teams to have more flexibility while meeting or exceeding the energy code.”

For example, she said to prescriptively comply with International Energy Conservation Code 2018 (IECC 2018), buildings are limited to 30 percent glass on the facade, therefore if a design team chooses to comply with IECC 2018 using the performance pathway, they can balance the energy deficit created by having a higher percentage of glass with improvements to walls, roofs, lighting and HVAC systems.

“Nebraska Legislative Bill LB 405 has been introduced and would update Nebraska’s energy code from IECC 2009 to IECC 2018,” Bogner said. “Our state is one of the last to consider adopting a more robust energy code.”

Engineering specialties Continued from preceding page. bring them the latest and greatest solutions for their industry,” he said.

The current pressures of workforce shortages generate a temptation to specialize degree programs for industry-specific tasks and potentially create quick-start graduates, he said.

“Specializing can be attractive to potential employees, as it gives them an opportunity to focus and become an expert in their own right,” Burnham said.

Engineering Profession •

Michael Hromanik, mechanical engineer at Prochaska & Associates.

Higher education institutions keep pace with changes in engineering profession

by Lee Nelson

Like most professions, engineering is changing to keep up with the world, technology and client demands.

“Technology is rapidly changing, and we are looking for engineers that are able to understand and process new sources of data,” said Mark Meisinger, senior traffic engineer at Felsburg Holt & Ullevig. “This has changed our business as many new data sources are available and we need to be able to identify and understand their use.”

Just a few years ago, self-driving vehicles were a thing of the future; they are now here, he said.

“We have to keep up with and in front of technology and be able to predict its impact on the things we design,” he said.

Meisinger “Technology advances require a new level of sophistication by younger engineers. In some cases, the technology was taught at the university level, and professionals in the industry need to catch up to younger engineers.”

Not much has changed with the licensing of engineers, Meisinger said, other than engineers can theoretically reach farther out geographically, so licenses may be needed in additional states.

Michael Hromanik, mechanical engineer at Prochaska & Associates, said ideally, a new hire would be able to hit the ground running and complete a complex task with minimal supervision.

“But that ability requires experience,” he said. “Work study programs and internships are a huge value to a recent college graduate because it shows they understand the fundamental processes of engineered systems and they have an understanding of designing, assembling and integrating those systems.

A resume that includes work study and internships is a great way to be fought over by employers.”

The strongest current trend he sees in the engineering profession is complexity.

“Over my 30 years, major mechanical components; boilers, chillers, air handlers,

VAV boxes, etc., in a broad sense haven’t changed much except for energy efficiency,” he said. “But a major factor in those efficiency gains has been how that equipment is controlled. Equipment control has become very complex, whether you are talking about the myriad of points that are monitored on an individual heat pump, or the control of the integrated HVAC systems of a large commercial building.”

This increase in complexity conflicts with the real needs of the building owner. There has been a decline in the ability of an owner to staff for that complexity, Hromanik said.

“The level of system complexity needs to be set to what the owner will be able to handle over the long Skidmore term,” he said. “Simplicity has to become a central design consideration.”

Jen Skidmore, director of student development in the College of Engineering at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, said she has seen the hiring timeline move earlier each year, with offers for the most competitive jobs and internships for summer start dates occurring in September and October.

“The best time for employers to get on campus to recruit our students is late August and early September the year before they want to hire,” she said. “Career fairs are still an excellent way to meet a high volume of the best and brightest students in just one day. We offer several career fairs throughout the year, and we work hard to prepare our students to stand out at the fairs.”

Degrees in all our engineering disciplines remain competitive to industry, Skidmore said. UNL’s career fairs keep growing each year, and the university is connected with employers trying to hire its students almost every day.

“Over 2,500 engineering positions have been advertised on our jobs site for University of Nebraska-Lincoln students since last summer,” she said. “It’s a great time to be an engineer.”

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 •

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• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal • Engineering Profession

2019 Engineering Excellence Awards A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands Business Journal

Grand Award Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center | HDR

A collaboration of the University of Nebraska Medical Center and Nebraska Medicine, the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center consists of two major components: a cancer research tower and an inpatient cancer facility.

With seven of the 10 floors dedicated to different types of cancer, the center’s research tower brings hundreds of cancer scientists into one place to search for new cancer treatments. For patients receiving care, the new center makes what is often a painful experience a little easier, because a new 108-bed inpatient cancer facility sits adjacent to a multidisciplinary outpatient center where patients go for their diagnosis, plan of care and treatment.

Ultimately, the center simplifies the cancer care journey for patients.

The Cancer Center achieved the highest designation possible from the National Cancer Institute — as a Comprehensive Cancer Center, one of only 41 in the U.S. HDR provided a fully integrated team to help the client in achieving their project goals.

Honor Awards River Point Tower | Alvine Engineering Category B: Technology Systems, Category Winner

The first commercial office high-rise constructed in Chicago in almost seven years, River Point sets the standard for ultramodern office space for some of the most well-known and demanding tenants in one of America’s largest cities. An initially challenging location, the 52-story LEED Gold office tower is located in Chicago’s compact downtown West Loop on the edge of the Chicago River where Amtrak already had an operating train line. Rather than attempting to relocate the train route, the River Point project incorporated the tracks, providing the opportunity to create a 1.5-acre plaza and river walk as an added benefit. With the flexibility to adapt to a wide range of tenants, River Point creates exceptional Class A office space with added benefits such as an advanced fitness center, a formal restaurant, and five levels of parking. From the soaring exterior to the inviting lobby, the architectural highlights are a true marvel of interdisciplinary integration as essential systems, such as mechanical and electrical, were installed with very little impact on the aesthetics of building.

Central Nebraska Veterans Home | Morrissey Engineering Category B: Building/Technology Systems

The new Central Nebraska Veterans Home was constructed to replace the 126-year-old Veterans Home.

The campus is comprised of 11 buildings on a 67-acre site in north-east Kearney. The Veteran’s Home Center (VHC) is the main building and is 75,000 square feet. On each side of the VHC is a HUB building at 13,000 square feet each, which primarily supports physical therapy needs. Six Neighborhood buildings, 202,200 square feet, provide living quarters for the Members (Veterans). Each Neighborhood has three homes, each Home has 12-15 Member Bedrooms for a total of 225 units. Morrissey Engineering designed an extremely efficient water cooled, geothermal, variable refrigerant flow HVAC system, 100% back-up emergency generator electrical system, tunable white LED lighting to promote improved circadian rhythm, and a robust technology system with wireless phone-based nurse call, real time locating system, and in-floor hearing loops. All systems integrated with architectural designs to provide skilled nursing health care facility with a home atmosphere.

The Breakers | Thompson, Dreessen & Dorner Category C: Structural Systems, Category Winner

“The Breakers” has been a transformational project. The intent to create a profitable, cohesive, and modern urban-living oasis out of an abandoned power plant’s three historically relevant but derelict masonry structures have changed the place and the people. “The Breakers” is now 217 apartments filled with tenants who enjoy the many tenant amenities including Omaha’s downtown and river views. An experienced project team including TD2 structural and geotechnical engineers have pieced the puzzle together one challenge at a time.

Called “The Breakers,” the name alludes to the project’s former life as Omaha Public Power District Jones Street Station. These three structures are the lonely survivors of Omaha’s first coal-fired power station that began in 1889. The best way to describe this project is “Adaptive Reuse” which takes an existing structure that has aged out of its original purpose/function and making it modern again. However, modern with historical echoes.

The transformation was tough and took four years, but what resulted after the countless hours of research, planning, design, and problem-solving was essentially constructing buildings inside of buildings to solve the many issues of marrying an existing historic shell with a new interior core. Buildings without traditional floors have become multi-stories of apartments. Basements were reconfigured for underground parking. Uncovered trusses reveal an industrial courtyard. And, a penthouse pool and fly-out decks offer tenants a spectacular perch. It has been an exhausting process but well worth it to see the lights on at “The Breakers.”

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• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal • ACEC Awards

Honor Awards Minne Lusa Pump Station Renovations | HDR Category F: Water and Waste Water, Category Winner

Part of a 20-year comprehensive capital improvement project, Metropolitan Utilities District (MUD) sought to renovate and upgrade its 130-year-old Minne Lusa Pump Station. Designated a Water Landmark by the American Water Works Association, the plant has sustained five major renovations since its inception.

Undergoing an amazing, $9.5 million transformation, the project restored original brickwork and arched windows and removed interior stucco. In addition to cosmetic renovations, the team tore out the station’s entrance, installed an ADA-compliant ramp, and replaced electrical wiring, controls and pumps. By upgrading inefficient equipment and structural systems, the team constructed an energy-efficient, weather-resistant facility that reduces operating and maintenance costs.

A top-to-bottom review of each space, code requirements, and staff access and maintenance identified potential issues and mitigation.

The Minne Lusa Pump Station project was challenged by the significant architectural, structural and site modifications; HVAC overhaul; and electrical system replacement. Open and operable throughout construction, the station maintained 100 MGD production during the summer and 30 MGD the rest of the year.

Completed on budget and ahead of schedule, with less than 1 percent in change orders, the revitalized Minne Lusa Pump Station is a remarkable achievement for MUD, the design and construction teams, and the community.

Flanagan Lake | HDR Category G: Water Resources, Category Winner

To alleviate flooding concerns that have loomed large over Nebraska’s largest metro area, the Papio-Missouri River Natural Resources District partnered with HDR to design a $44 million, one-of-a-kind park and dam in Omaha’s northwest suburbs.

The nearly 1,500-foot-long dam will create a 220-acre lake, capable of holding 1.3 billion gallons of flood water.

The dam structure will not only provide safety during heavy rains and storms, but spurred development in the area.

Combatting poor subsurface conditions and slope stability concerns at the dam and roadway embankments, the team built each structure in multiple phases, allowing successive compression and settlement to occur prior to reaching their final heights.

The project did more than transform the space aesthetically — it created a new, sustainable ecosystem.

The 475 acres of green space and nearly 100 acres of wetlands offer a home for migratory birds and fish.

Seeded with native plants and grasses while incorporating an upstream water quality basin and reusing materials throughout construction allowed the team to save money and minimize environmental effects.

Johnston High School | Alvine Engineering Category K: Energy, Category Winner

Currently the largest high school in Iowa, capable of serving up to 1,800 students, Johnston High School offers 21st century enriched classrooms with retractable walls that allow classrooms to combine, fostering cross-discipline learning and collaboration; a gymnasium; and a 1,200-seat auditorium for the performing arts. However, not all of the facility’s most impressive features are front-and-center. Hidden throughout the building are systems that make this a top example of energy-efficiency in the learning environment. Beneath the large parking lot and football field is a geothermal field that allows for heat rejection and absorption.

Inside, the main air conditioning system is displacement ventilation, which has lower initial energy consumption and is more energy efficient overall.

Likewise, a “lumen maintenance system” provides energy savings while maintaining desired lighting levels in each classroom. These systems helped the project earn a rebate from MidAmerican Energy of $843,642 for the efficient design and operation of the building.

WHAT IS THE AMERICAN COUNCIL OF ENGINEERING COMPANIES?

American Council of Engineering Companies Nebraska (ACEC NE), with headquarters in Lincoln, is a nonprofit association of 50 consulting engineering firms located throughout the state, serving the public and private sectors. As the only organization devoted exclusively to exclusively to the business and advocacy interests of engineering companies, ACEC Nebraska member firms employ more than 3,000 individuals across Nebraska who are engaged in a wide range of engineering projects that propel our economy, and enhance and safeguard our quality of life. ACEC NE is one of 52 member organizations, representing more than 7,000 firms nationwide, making up the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC), headquartered in Washington , D.C. ACEC Nebraska is delighted to celebrate and honor outstanding engineering projects and engineers from Nebraska. Our state is home to engineering firms whose work touches a broad range of construction and renovation projects, from public schools, universities, and community healthcare facilities to water purification plants and energy generation and distribution systems. They design and construct the components of our “built environment” such as roads, bridges, tunnels, buildings, sewers, water-treatment systems, hazardous-waste disposal systems, and so much more. Many of these projects are right here in Nebraska – but as you can see from the award descriptions – Nebraska’s engineers are working on amazing projects across the country!

Each February we celebrate engineering and its impact on our lives. Our Engineering Excellence Awards recognize the exceptional innovation, complexity, achievement, value, and creativity that keep our communities not only working but also thriving.

Engineers are problem-solvers. They investigate a challenge, then develop the most innovative and effective solutions possible for their clients. Engineering makes all the difference in our world.

Jeanne McClure is executive director of ACEC Nebraska.

Merit Award Recipients Category A: Studies, Research and Consulting Engineering Services

Category B: Building/Technology Systems

Lincoln Autonomous Microtransit Study HDR Category Winner

Warren Distribution Headquarters Technology Integration IP Design Group

Category B: Building/Technology Systems

Category B: Building/Technology Systems

Parrish School Relocation and Renovation Farris Engineering

Innovative HVAC System Design KPE Engineers - Architects

ACEC Awards • Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 22, 2019 •

Merit Award Recipients

Young Professional of the Year Award

Category C: Structural Systems

Category C: Structural Systems

Category C: Structural Systems

Kaneko Entrance Addition HDR

Creighton University Pedestrian Bridge HDR

Norfolk Avenue Bridge Replacement Olsson

Category E: Environmental

Category F: Water and Waste Water

County Road G76 Over I-35 Schemmer

Cleanup Program Support for Magnus Bronze Bearing Foundry Olsson

OPW 53048 Missouri River Water Resource Recovery Facility Schemmer

Category G: Water Resources

Category H: Transportation

Category H: Transportation

Category C: Structural Systems

Category Winner

Category Winner

Jenny Newman Lake Improvements at Platte River State Park JEO Consulting

Eppley Airfield Terminal Ramp Reconstruction Lamp Rynearson

Kearney Regional Airport Runway 18/36 Reconstruction Alfred Benesch & Company

Category H: Transportation

Category H: Transportation

Category I: Special Projects Category Winner

Yankee Hill Road Improvements Olsson and WSP

Nebraska City Southeast Interchange Olsson

West Central Nebraska Traffic Incident Management Program HDR

Category K: Energy

Category: Small Firms Projects

Category: Small Firms Projects

Category Winner

City Campus Thermal Energy Storage Olsson

Scottsbluff High School Baker & Associates, Inc.

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Highlander Ehrhart Griffin & Associates

Ross Barron, a professional engineer with Olsson, has been named the 2019 Young Professional of the Year by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Nebraska.

Barron, a technical leader and bridge engineer, holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and is working toward completing his master’s degree in engineering manageBarron ment this spring. In his 10-year career, his work has included the Norfolk Avenue bridge reconstruction in Norfolk; more recently, the Tri-Faith Campus circular pedestrian bridge in Omaha; numerous highway bridge reconstruction and repairs throughout the state for the Nebraska Department of Transportation; and various concrete spillways and environmental structures for the Flood Control District of Maricopa County in Arizona.

“Although I’ve worked on several engineering projects throughout the country, I still maintain a strong desire to deliver successful engineering solutions to friends and neighbors in my community,” he said. “The recent completion of the Rosa Parks bridge repairs solved a dangerous issue for many Lincoln drivers. People I know in my community got excited about this project. Through these interactions, I can feel my purpose in the community as it supports my passions in life.”

Barron’s industry involvement includes serving as a board member and vice president for the Lincoln Engineers Club and on the NDOT subcommittee for ACEC Nebraska. He serves as a director of the board for the Lincoln Parks Foundation and volunteers with student outreach for the UNL College of Engineering.

Charles Durham Achievement Award

The ACEC Board of Directors is honored to present the 2019 Charles Durham Award to Dan Thiele, founder and CEO of Thiele Geotech, Inc. in Omaha.

He has more than 35 years of experience in geotechnical, material, and environmental engineering, and is recognized as an expert on various types of earth retaining systems across North America. Dan received Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Civil Engineering from the University of Nebraska.

He is a licensed Professional Engineer in Nebraska and 24 other states.

Dan founded Thiele Geotech, Inc. in 1996 with offices at 40th and Cuming streets. It quickly grew from one person to eight employees in the first year, and Thiele over the next four years, the firm moved into its new facility located at 13478 Chandler Road.

In 2001, the Greater Omaha Chamber recognized the firm as the 10th fastest growing company in Omaha.

In 2006, the firm received the Golden Spike Award from Sarpy County Economic Development Corporation.

Thiele Geotech recently completed a second building, expanding its drilling operations and adding geophysical engineering and instrumentation services.

And, today, 23 years after opening its doors, Thiele Geotech has a family of 65 engineers, geologists, and technical and support staff.

Throughout his career, Dan has served on numerous civic and professional boards and committees.

He currently serves on the Nebraska Board of Engineers and Architects. He actively participates in Omaha’s Commercial Real Estate Summit every year, serving as both a member of the organizing committee and as a panel guest. He is a board trustee and past president of the Nebraska Society of Professional Engineers Education Foundation. Dan has served as president for the Sarpy County Economic Development Corporation, president of ACEC Nebraska/PAC, president of the Professional Engineers Coalition, and is the former chairman of the board of V.J. & Angela Skutt Catholic High School. And, for the last 30 years, Dan has had the extraordinary pleasure serving as the emcee for the Nebraska Eastern Chapter of Math Counts.

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• FEBRUARY 22, 2019 • Midlands Business Journal • ACEC Awards