Midlands Business Journal February 19, 2021 Vol. 47 No. 8 issue by Midlands Business Journal

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 19, 2021 •

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February 19, 2021

pany is headquartered. “They will then likely expand to a few additional hospital sites,” Farritor said. “The company is also planning to develop a family of specialized MIRA devices. The first robot is designed for colon resection procedures, and the company will develop even smaller devices for operations like hernia repair and gallbladder removal.” Michael Dixon, president and CEO at UNeMed, the technology transfer and commercialization office for the University of Nebraska Medical Center and the University of Nebraska at Omaha, said the main role of UNeMed is to help leverage the research that occurs at the universities. “Our role is to identify ways to protect these discoveries so we can convince companies or startups to invest the money needed to take it to product,” Dixon said. “We’ve found that one of the best ways to commercialize a new technology is to form a startup around it,

while growing and building that technology so when it matures it can be purchased or acquired by a larger company.” Last year, UNeMed had five startups and is projected to help more this coming year. “There’s also that double bottom line of helping the local economy by building more businesses, which we’re really happy to see,” he said. UNeTech, a translational research institute and startup incubator for UNMC and UNO, has also been a great support structure, Dixon said. According to Joe Runge, associate director of UNeTech, there is a lot of risk in early stage technology and there are resources that are necessary to make the chances more successful. “We are graciously supported by state government and federal grants,” Runge said. “We try to provide that support for infrastructure. Our job is to help connect people with the people who can help them accomplish what they need to be successful.”

Ben Williamson, principal and general counsel at Invest Nebraska in Lincoln.

Local startups continue to push new innovations by Gabby Hellbusch

Those who work within the local startup ecosystem say it is thriving in Nebraska. According to Ben Williamson, principal and general counsel at Invest Nebraska, a robust startup ecosystem is a result of a confluence of factors, networks and infrastructure. “This includes a baseline need for availability of capital, mentors, entrepreneurs and human resources, and is reliant on collaborative and intentional participation from service providers, post-secondary institutions, funders, the corporate sector, Dixon state and local government and communities and infrastructure and educational partners,” Williamson said. “To be completely candid, Nebraska has historically lagged behind in most of these areas. But the good news: we’re getting better at every single one of those areas and there has never been a better time to be an innovator and entrepreneur in Nebraska.” At Invest Nebraska, the mission is to promote community and economic development by identifying, supporting and investing in high-growth, high-impact companies

across Nebraska. “Generally speaking, I expect continued growth and improvement of our startup ecosystem,” he said. Shane Farritor, co-founder and chief technology officer at Virtual Incision, said the company is pioneering the use of mini robots for general surgery abdominal procedures with the goal of bringing the benefits of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) to patients everywhere. “It’s widely accepted that MIS is best for patients, resulting in a shorter hospital stay, faster recovery Runge and reduced use of narcotics following surgery,” he said. “Virtual Incision’s MIRA (miniaturized in vivo robotic assistant) is a first-of-its-kind portable platform designed to increase access to MIS for patients, reducing their recovery time and overall cost to the health care system. MIRA weighs just two pounds, is about the size of a person’s hand and can be easily transported from room to room.” Additionally, Virtual Incision will soon start enrolling patients in a clinical study of MIRA in Nebraska, close to where the com-

Only in Nebraska — inside FEBRUARY 19, 2021

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LoCo Omaha satiates hunger for locally-owned food delivery service by Michelle Leach

With robust lumber industry, Sprenger Midwest sees steady growth in near future. – Page 2

40 er d Un 40 Korensky develops winning entrepreneurial strategy with Appsky. – Page 4

ln co state n i L lE a Re

Commitment to startup support system fuels tech sector growth. – Page 24

When LoCo Omaha launched in December, it represented the start of a local alternative to national third-party meal delivery services and threw a lifeline to struggling homegrown restaurants and families facing hunger amid the pandemic, building upon the state’s rich history of co-operatives in other segments of the food system. “From the pilot program, we had 42 local, independent restaurants participating,” said co-founder and General Manager Clay Seaman in early February. “We have almost 20 signed up to be a part of the delivery service going forward. Another 20 to 30 restaurants, some with multiple locations, are close to confirming.” Restaurants don’t have to be members to use the service, whose model was adapted from four-yearold, Iowa-based Chomp.delivery by Co-op attorney Jason Wiener and local counsel Bill Kutilek of Lincoln’s Crosby Guenzel. “This type of co-operative serContinued on page 21.

California Tacos owner Brad Bogard, left, and LoCo Omaha General Manager and co-founder Clay Seaman … Unique co-operative model feeds food insecure families through program partnership; presents a lifeline for local restaurant sector through pandemic. (Photo by MBJ / Becky McCarville)

Omaha-based startup driverDOC poised to accelerate growth after capital raise by Becky McCarville

Targeting transportation and trucking companies with fewer than 20 trucks, which is about 97% of the industry, driverDOC founder and CEO Josh Kolar has focused his SaaS platform to help alleviate the mountains of paperwork piled on truck drivers as they transport goods across the U.S. — bringing document efficiency to a fragment-

ed industry and providing real-time data throughout the supply chain. “The inefficiencies of the trucking industry cannot be solved without first considering the perspective of the driver, analyzing their challenges and then providing them with an effective tech solution they never even imagined,” he said. “Their jobs include the operation of Continued on page 21. CEO Nyeshia Fernandez … Headband wigs support strong start for experienced stylist/entrepreneur’s one-stop for beauty essentials.

Omaha’s J. Monae Beauty Supply gains quick traction as online shop by Michelle Leach

From left, founder and CEO Josh Kolar, CFO Julia Kolar and Head of Product Design Thang Nguyen … With a $400,000 capital raise secured, the logistics startup taps into “opportunity zone” advantages, digitizes supply chain paperwork to help truck drivers.

The pioneering Omaha-based and Black-owned online beauty supply store may have only launched on Small Business Saturday last year, but J. Monae Beauty Supply has already had such demand for its practical, yet fashionable headband wigs that CEO Nyeshia Fernandez has restocked them “several times.” Now the serial entrepreneur-licensed cosmetologist has big plans in store to build upon such early traction.

“Although I’d love to open a brick and mortar at this time, I felt it was best to just launch online until the pandemic is over,” Fernandez said. “By 2022, we’ll have a brick and mortar so that all of our customers can come shop with us in person. We currently have one event lined up where we’re going to educate a group of young ladies on how to properly take care of their hair, as well as give some styling tools and products away. Hopefully we can Continued on page 30.

• FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

With robust lumber industry, Sprenger Midwest sees steady growth in near future by Gabby Hellbusch

ships with customers remain the biggest focus. “We understand the value of customer service, dependability and keeping promises,” he said. “In the end, we supply building materials that help people build dreams. Knowing that we’re part of that process is very rewarding.”

Sprenger Midwest, an independent wholesale lumber distributor located in Lincoln, has seen consistent growth year-over-year, which has been attributed to fiscal responsibility, customer service and team dynamic, according to Josh Ingersoll, facility manager at the Lincoln branch.

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Sprenger Midwest Location: 545 L St., Lincoln 68508 Founded: 1979 Employees: 210 Service: independent wholesale lumber distributor for the Midwest Goal: Remain dominant independent wholesaler, move into new space that will accommodate growth. Website: www.sprengermidwest.com

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Josh Ingersoll, Lincoln branch facility manager … The lumber distributor is poised for continued growth with plans to expand. high and manufacturing and production is at an Sprenger Midwest occupies an entire city block. all-time low,” he said. “This increases prices and However, as the operation continues to grow, there’s more of an urgency for products.” Ingersoll said more space is needed. The lumber market has soared over the Moving forward, the business plans to work course of the past year, but pricing has become with local developers to secure a location where more stable recently. a larger facility can be situated. “I anticipate that this next year will be just as “It’s an exciting time for us,” he said. “We’re strong for the industry,” Ingersoll said. a big yard, and we’ve been a big part of the south Right now, operations for team members Haymarket, and it’s been exciting to be down have changed, including adding more safety here. Now it’s time to find a new home for us. I measures within the office, as well as manufac- would say that we’re looking to move into a new turer drop offs and will-call pickups. spot within the next five years or so.” Located in the south Haymarket area, For now, and always, Ingersoll said relation-

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“We are steadily increasing our customer base, our footprint is getting bigger and we’re stretching boundaries,” Ingersoll said. Sprenger Midwest, which was first established in 1979 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and later expanded into multiple states including the warehouse distribution center in Lincoln, supplies quality building material to both small and large retail lumberyards in Nebraska, North Dakota, Minnesota, South Dakota, Iowa, Kansas and Missouri. Currently, Sprenger Midwest employs over 210 employees with warehouse locations in Nebraska, South Dakota and Minnesota. At the Lincoln location alone, there are roughly 25 employees. Recently, Ingersoll said the industry has seen a tremendous uptick in home improvement projects, which is directly correlated to the COVID-19 pandemic. “COVID has created some supply and demand challenges, as demand has been so

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First job: Lifeguard at a city pool. The toughest part of the job: Staying current with various regulatory requirements. The best advice I have received: Be yourself because everyone else is taken. About my family: Tyler, my wonderful husband. Two grown children and six grandchildren. Something else I’d like to accomplish: Walk at least 500 miles on the Camino Santiago. How my business will change in the next decade: Cybersecurity will be the

focus, not just an add on. Mentor who has helped the most in my career: John Sulja, a former manager in Canada. Outside interests: I am a certified Spiritual Director. I also enjoy cooking and reading. Favorite vacation spot: Somewhere I can immerse myself in local culture and food. Hiking and beaches are great too! Favorite cause or charity: The Nature Conservancy. Favorite app: Goodreads.

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• FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

Korensky develops winning entrepreneurial strategy with Appsky by Dwain Hebda Bar Ticket. Like a lot of success stories, KoTaylor Korensky, CEO of Appsky, has rensky’s was a combination of strategic vision been on the path of entrepreneurship for as and being in the right place at the right time. long as he can remember. “When I was in college, I got to meet “I’ve always kind of been entrepreneurial all these incredible entrepreneurs and I got a in nature. I did lawn mowing as a kid. I did really cool look at that early on,” he said. “It lemonade stands. Those things you do,” he was an interesting period in software where said. “Some of it was modeled from experi- people didn’t really know what apps exactly ences I had with my family. My grandpa has needed to be. When they first came out it was been a barber in Lincoln his entire career and kind of novelty and it took a couple years for always independent, owned his own shop. people to understand that the real money to And my dad was involved in starting be made with apps is on the B2B a few small tech companies and I got side of things and not really the to see that when I was a kid.” consumer-driven stuff.” Beyond his childhood enterKorensky has continued to look prises, Korensky followed in his for new opportunities as he expands family’s footsteps for real when at the company’s brand and extends 19 he started his first development its reach. Among those efforts is company. His time at University Appsky Ventures, which launched of Nebraska at Omaha was evenly in 2020. split between his studies in IT and “The long-term goal with 2020 building his fledgling startup. Appsky was always to work to“I wasn’t actually that interested in tech- wards building our own products or solunology at first. I didn’t think it was going to tions that we’ve identified,” Korensky said. be my career path,” he said. “I don’t know “Appsky Ventures is a ventures studio, which that there a specific spark other than I didn’t is a bit of a newer concept in the venture caplike the idea of having to work for someone ital world. We invest our time and resources for my entire career. and connections and long-term support of a “I started to get more into [entrepreneur- technical product rather than investing dollars ship] as part of my IT innovation degree. It specifically.” gave me a lot of opportunities to meet really “Usually, it’s a partnership with an entrecool people. I started to explore what that kind preneur, or something that we build ourselves of career path looked like and it made sense that allows Appsky’s team to work on it at to pair that with technology in some way.” a discounted rate and trade essentially for a Since launching the company in 2016, vesting schedule of equity for the company as Appsky has developed several winning apps, a minority stake. And throughout that process including My Heart Risk, TransplantU and we have a framework that we’re developing

CEO Taylor Korensky … Entrepreneur aims to improve Omaha community by creating platform for the development of apps. with multiple steps that really helps guide Start Omaha and has judged various business those opportunities through the steps that we and tech competitions including through think will get them to the best opportunity to BuilderTrend, Omaha Children’s Business succeed.” Fair and UNO’s Center for Innovation. Korensky also keeps a hand in community Born in Virgina and raised in Omaha, service. He’s the co-organizer of networking Korensky graduated from UNO with a degree events through Omaha’s One Million Cups in IT innovation with minors in computer and Coffee & Code. He also helped create science and entrepreneurship.

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Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 19, 2021 •

O N L Y

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

February 19, 2021

Ben Williamson, principal and general counsel at Invest Nebraska in Lincoln.

Local startups continue to push new innovations by Gabby Hellbusch

• FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

• Only In Nebraska

Logistical benefits, culture allow Nebraska firms to put marks on respective industries by Michelle Leach

They may not be the new, bright, shiny object, however, numerous studies through the decades support that existing businesses drive the vast majority of net new job growth. In fact, David L. Birch’s 1987 “Job Growth in America” is frequently cited by economic development organizations across the country, what with its assertion that up to 80% of new jobs come from current neighbors. RDG Planning and Design’s commitment to the state is more than a half-century old. “We started our Sova architectural business in this city in 1965 and have continued to grow and expand as an organization alongside Omaha ever since,” said Principal and COO John Sova. “From an industry standpoint, our relationship with the state of Nebraska is incredibly symbiotic. Having a top-notch, well-known and respected College of Architecture just 50 minutes from our doorstep at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, means we’re able to connect with and recruit high-quality, talented designers from within our own state.” Hyper-locally, Sova noted, the firm has called the downtown urban core “home” for almost the entirety of its 55-plus-year experience. “Most recently, we settled into our new offices in the renovated former Greater Omaha Chamber building in the heart of the Old Market,” he said. “Being located physically downtown means we not only have access to many

Pat Kearns, president and CEO of QLI. of the city’s critical services, but we’re also able we’re able to serve these clients seamlessly and to support local businesses, something that’s efficiently, regardless of where they or their become exceptionally important throughout the project might be located,” he said. COVID-19 pandemic.” So, the firm has made a mark not only on For instance, in lieu of the usual holiday Creighton University, University of Nebraska at party, they gave each of its 90 employees a gift Omaha and UNMC, but also on the likes of the card to a locally-owned Old Market restaurant University of Michigan, or by partnering with of their choice. organizations in the early learning market like As a locally-owned company with work Educare System, which boasts facilities in 15 experience in 48 of 50 states, RDG has reportedly states. Same goes for senior living; local clients benefited logistically; in the center of the country, like Immanuel and Vetter Senior Living have they’re able to get more anywhere in a day and been expanding in far-flung states, including back if needed. Florida and Pennsylvania. “This flexibility has been critical to expan“Even though we’re a national presence, sion of several of our key markets, because 50% or so of our revenue comes from doing

business in Nebraska,” Sova said, referencing other partners such as Omaha Steaks and Omaha Public Schools. In doing so, he explained, they strengthen the region’s position as a desirable place to live, work, learn and play. “Our out-of-state work positions us as ambassadors for the ‘can-do’ work ethic synonymous with Nebraska and the Midwest,” he said. “We often hear feedback about our level of commitment and diligence, and also how we’re able to marry these attributes with real design West excellence.” RDG continues to remain in Omaha (growing from around 30 to almost 90 employees in two decades) by offering employees the chance to live in a place that, Sova described, is “at once uniquely homegrown and on the cutting-edge of innovation.” QLI, founded in 1987 Dr. Kim Hoogeveen, community leaders and parents whose loved ones suffered life-altering injuries, has grown tremendously from Omaha in size, scope and reputation, according to Patricia “Pat” Kearns, president and CEO. “QLI serves over 300 survivors of brain injury, spinal cord injury, or other life-altering neurological disability, along with their families, each year,” she said. “Over more than 30 years, our one-of-a-kind clinical operation has steadily Continued on next page.

Only In Nebraska •

Nebraska attractions open, ready for visitors by Dwain Hebda

Many of Nebraska’s attractions have a message to those seeking diversion from pandemic-related isolation: We’re open. “In terms of the exhibits and visiting the museum, we are open,” said Jessica Brummer, director of communications with the Durham Museum. “We are using timed tickets where you go online and reserve your spot ahead of time. That lets us limit the amount of people in the building. We had great success Brummer this fall and Christmas using that system while still getting a lot of people in the building.” The museum and national historic landmark was built in 1931 as Union Station. It opened as Western Heritage Museum in 1975, later changing to honor philanthropists Chuck and Marge Durham whose contribution restored the building’s main level. “Our mission is to teach people about local and regional history; people who want to get to know about their city and state,” Brummer said. “We also bring in nationally known exhibitions covering a broad range of topics.” Brummer said featured exhibits in 2021 include “Guitar, the Instrument that Rocked the World” from the National Guitar Museum in New York, open now. This summer, the museum will host the North American premiere of “James Cameron: Challenging the Deep.” Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is also welcoming natives and tourists alike.

Dennis Pate, president and CEO, said the famed attraction underwent numerous safety enhancements in 2020. “Improvements include automatic door openers, touchless faucets and new air cir-

Pate Howard culation systems in the Desert Dome, Lozier Giant Screen Theater and Lied Jungle,” he said. “Social distancing and masking also continue to be part of the ‘Healthy Zoo, Healthy You’ program, a commitment to the safety and well-being of our guests, animals and employees.” Pate said visitors have enjoyed Owen Sea Lion Shores, which opened Labor Day weekend 2020. New openings for 2021 include the Harper Event Center and updates to Lee G. Simmons Aviary and Hubbard Gorilla Valley. He credited the organization’s staff for helping keep things on track under challenging circumstances. “Whether providing the best care for the animals, finding new and interactive ways to virtually bring the zoo to our community, or simply adding a smile to a face, our zoo employees are unwavering,” he said. Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska City spent Continued on page 9.

Nebraska firms to put marks on respective industries Continued from preceding page. expanded into a 65-acre north Omaha campus. This is our lone location — and for good reason.” Kearns explained how, in part, a centralized location allows the team to effectively serve families from all corners of the country. “QLI proudly provides unrivaled clinical services to Nebraskans who have suffered a catastrophic injury, maximizing recovery after injury and getting individuals back on a meaningful and sustainable path in life,” she said. “QLI also attracts clients from across the country. Survivors of brain or spinal cord injury travel from coast-to-coast to access QLI’s proprietary clinical model, bringing exposure and dollars to Omaha and to Nebraska.” With more than 400 team members, QLI is also a frequent honoree of talent- and culture-oriented awards, such as the Best Place to Work in Omaha and Best Place to Work for the Advancement of Women. “QLI not only invests heavily in its employees, but also invests in the community by engaging young adults in a health care career through context-based training programs,” Kearns said; for instance, partnerships such as with the Avenue Scholars Foundation provide practical skills to at-risk youth, propelling them into healthy and stable careers. The state and community have, she noted, proven to be a rich source of talent, partnerships, and generosity. “There is an attitude of excellence across the community that fuels innovation, allows for tough topics to be tackled, and creates an environment for people to thrive professionally and personally,” she added. “We went from being a dream by a group of families to

a nationally recognized center of excellence. We don’t believe that could have happened anywhere else.” Carson Wealth Managing Partner Paul West, who doubles as a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber’s Economic Development Council, noted there is no better way to illustrate the firm’s commitment than its national headquarters at the new Heartwood Preserve as an anchor tenant. “We’re building this new complex as a generational decision, meaning not just for the current business and leadership team, but for our next generation of leadership to take this over and continue to grow it for multiple generations in the city,” he said. “We expect at some point to have up to 1,000 stakeholders working at our headquarters.” Importantly, the advisory firm started by Ron Carson in 1983, will be open to the community, too. “For example, our coffee shop area will be open to the public so people can come in and enjoy it and have a chance to network and interact,” West explained. “Another commitment is that we would like to have local charities and boards host events and planning meetings there in some of the shared spaces.” With its “heart” in developing next-generation financial advisers, West said Carson will be bringing people across the industry to Omaha to take part in training and development, stay in local hotels, and enjoy local restaurants. “Some of the advantages to being headquartered in Nebraska? Well, we just love the people,” West said. “We love the work ethic, the central location and the energy of a rapidly-growing city.”

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 19, 2021 •

• FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

• Only In Nebraska

Uniquely Nebraskan eateries focus on local by David Kubicek

Want a break from national chain restaurants? Here are a few homegrown options. Dante opened in 2009 in the middle of a recession, owner and Chef Nick Strawhecker said. In the beginning, the restaurant at 168th Street and West Center Road in the Shops of Legacy focused on woodfire pizza, but over the years has evolved with a more varied menu. “Woodfire pizza is still a big part of what we do and accounts for about 20% of sales,” Strawhecker said. “We started focusing on making the wood oven the central focus of the restaurant, roasting vegetables Strawhecker and different kinds of protein such as fish, duck, beef, chicken, and other game.” The restaurant’s menu is hyper seasonal. For instance, every week in July different kinds of produce will be available. Dante’s extensive wine list only focuses on Italian wines, which account for about 20% of sales. The restaurant serves brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, and it has a catering operation with a mobile woodfire oven. “With catering we really focus on pizza and a few other things,” Strawhecker said. Stirnella Bar & Kitchen, located at 3814 Farnam St. in Omaha’s historic Blackstone district, is a gastropub with global influences that serves food inspired by local and seasonal ingredients, according to owner and Executive

Chef Matthew Moser. The restaurant’s dedication to serving internationally inspired dishes with Omaha flavor is also represented in the restaurant’s name. “Stirnella stems from the Nebraska state bird, the Meadowlark genus, and species Sturnella neglecta,” Moser said. “The name represents the desire to create and continue to evolve, while staying true to Nebraska roots. We serve refined comfort food and cook within the seasons while utilizing as many local purveyors as possible.” Stirnella’s menu includes several pasta dishes, pork shank, roasted scallops, fried Mock chicken sandwich and its Blackstone Burger. It also serves cocktails, wines, and beer. “We have learned in the last year that you need to be able to adapt and pivot to survive,” Moser said. “Our goal is to continue to refine our craft and provide the service and food that we are known for. Our industry has changed forever, and forecasting off historical data is not as reliable as it once was. Our goal is to remain positive and continue to give it our all.” Fizzy’s Fountain & Liquors opened last March, one week before COVID-19 shut everything down, but was able to re-open in July, according to Katie Mock, who owns the cocktail bar with her husband, Noah. “We have a diner/soda fountain atmosphere,” Mock said. “The cocktail menu is our Continued on next page.

Only In Nebraska •

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 19, 2021 •

Agribusiness enters 2021 with optimism, headed for growth Nebraskan eateries by Gabby Hellbusch

The field of agribusiness is anything but stagnant right now, local experts say. As agribusiness leaders turn their attention to 2021, Dr. Tom Field, director of Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, said there is still uncertainty and volatility on a number of fronts including COVID-19 challenges, a change in federal administration and weather forecasts predicting drought conditions in key agricultural regions of the United States. However, despite the rocky experiences related to COVID-19 that disrupted manufacturing and processing capability in the spring of 2020, Field said the agricultural sector heads into 2021 with realistic but not unfettered levels of optimism. “As a case in point, beef demand in 2020 reached a 30-year peak, while exports of protein

reached historic levels,” Field said. “Payment to attract, train and retain talent for jobs ranging backstops made by the federal government in from blue collar craftsmanship to development 2020 helped dilute the cash flow crisis that con- of high-tech solutions,” he said. “While many fronted many enterprises across the hurdles line the path forward, agrispectrum of the agricultural supply business is poised to enter into a new chain and with market upturns over and exciting era of entrepreneurship, the past six months; the economic innovation and profitability.” picture has steadied and is poised Jim Powers, chair of the agrifor growth. However, there is a business practice area at McGrath clear need to bring human-enhanced North, said there’s been a welcome automation to a host of agricultural rise in grain prices, which is good production, processing and merchannews for producers. dising processes.” “The upturn in the market brings At the same time, he said the some price volatility and may create rise of at-home food preparation and tension upon existing contracts that Powers consumption coupled with consumer were priced before the upturn,” adoption of online grocery and food shopping Powers said. approaches set the stage for increased direct to Additionally, he said the market is being consumer marketing efforts. impacted by the usual suspects — supply and “The industry must also address its capacity demand and government regulation. “The American farmer continues to be the most efficient and best producer in the world,” he said. “Often, the fact that they do such a good for our guests.” job results in an oversupply and hurts prices. As the home of Arbor Day, today an inter- The key is to continue to make sure all markets national movement, Howard has high hopes Continued on page 11. that conditions will allow the group to mark the springtime event in a big way. “We have hundreds of thousands of members spread throughout the United States and the world. Members will introduce themselves, tell us they’ve heard about our property, seen it through newsletters or heard word of mouth and they want to come and experience it,” he said. “Some of the things we’re looking at are some big projects that will affect the storytelling in a positive way at Arbor Lodge, including, possibly bringing a new immersive experience to that to engage with people.”

Nebraska attractions open, ready for visitors Continued from page 7. much of 2020 closed to the public while officials worked out ways to accommodate visitors safely. Primary among these new measures is an online ticketing system allowing for better crowd control. Adam Howard, director of farm operations, said such measures play a critical role going forward. “The digital ticketing platform allowed us not only to gauge from a metrics standpoint and respond to how many people are coming in, but it allowed us to guide and filter people through, whether that’s a per hour basis or per day basis,” he said. “Controlling the crowd, per se, gave us some neat tools going forward to provide an uninterrupted and safe environment

Continued from preceding page. take on 1950s cocktails made into shakes, floats, and slushies, which are really popular. We also own Nite Owl, and our slushies are very popular there as well.” Fizzies has ice cream cocktails, non-ice cream cocktails, beer on tap, and wine. In addition, it has a small food menu that is the owners’ take on 1950s diner classics. “We have a Frenchie, we have a bologna sandwich, we have a fried chicken dinner,” Mock said. “We always do lots of specials as well. The atmosphere makes Fizzy’s unique. The fact that we’re in the old Bohemian Café [at 1406 S. 13th St.] is pretty fantastic. It has such a rich history. It was a family-owned restaurant that was around for 80 years in south Omaha.” Nite Owl is a bar with a 1970s theme, and the Mocks thought it would be fun to honor something from the 1950s era. “We like anything retro,” Katie Mock said. “Fizzy’s channels the 1950s diner/soda fountain feel we were going for. If you’re in a booth, you can order on a phone just like anyone who’s familiar with King’s back in the day.”

• FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

Marketing Aviation Agencies A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands Business Journal

Topics may include:

A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands Business Journal

Topics may include:

State of aviation in Nebraska • Private jet industry Aviation careers • Travel industry Update on local airports

Marketing outlook • Digital marketing strategy in 2021 Sales growing on social media platforms • Marketing trends Small businesses partnering with agencies

Issue Date: March 5 • Ad Deadline: February 25

Nebraska Higher Education Startups 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:

Education outlook • Growth in virtual learning Popular degree programs • Skilled trades Campus improvements

Issue Date: March 12 • Ad Deadline: March 4

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

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 19, 2021 •

Tax season has begun. What to know before you file by Susan Tompor

What will likely be a challenging tax season kicked off Friday, as the Internal Revenue Service finally began processing 2020 federal income tax returns. Financial The tax season started about two weeks later than last year, reflecting the extra time the IRS said it needed to program and test its systems after last-minute tax law changes in Washington provided a second round of Economic Impact Payments and other pandemic

relief benefits. "We are ready," said IRS Ken Corbin, the new IRS chief taxpayer experience officer, a newly-created position that is designed to better help the agency address taxpayer problems. Corbin also serves as commissioner for the IRS wage and investment division. The IRS is encouraging people to avoid the possible headaches and holdups that can take place when you're filing a paper return during the pandemic. Corbin said choosing to file electronically is the safest way to file BACKUP FUNCTION

a return and the quickest way to get a refund. As for those stimulus payments, the IRS had some thoughts there too. The likelihood of a third stimulus payment of up to $1,400 for individuals is on the table now. If all goes smoothly with passing the necessary legislation, some speculate that payments could be out as early as mid-March. Yet buzz is already building on how one might game that system. If you lost a job and had a sizable drop in income in 2020, some speculate that you'd want to file your 2020 federal income tax return early this year so that the IRS can base the next stimulus payment on your low income last year. It's one way that some might get a bigger stimulus check, possibly. But Corbin cautioned that people don't want to rush into filing a return, just to file as soon as possible. The best bet, he said, is to avoid any mistakes and only file when the correct paperwork and information that you need is available. If you don't have the correct W-2 forms or 1099s, for example, the return is likely to face delays in processing. "We always encourage taxpayers to file the most accurate return they can," Corbin said. The tax filing deadline is April 15 this tax season. Corbin said the IRS is not anticipating extending the deadline as it did last year due the widespread shutdowns early in the pandemic. Last year, the IRS extended the deadline all the way until July 15. Here are a few tips to consider as you prepare to file those returns:

Agribusiness enters 2021

Answers on page 12.

Continued from page 9. both in this country and internationally are fully utilized.” According to Powers, concerns over climate change continue to focus on the agribusiness industry. As an example, there could be new regulations on nitrous oxide impacting the industry. “On the plus side, I see carbon credits as becoming a financial benefit to producers, and I expect interest in these programs to increase in the future,” he said. “Finally, I think plant-based foods will continue to increase as an American food alternative.” Pete Poppert, chair of agribusiness department and assistant professor of practice in agribusiness at Doane University, said Doane University College of Business and College of Arts and Sciences are working collectively to understand the expectations of agricultural employers. “To this end, an Agricultural Advisory board was created in 2020 with 12 members representing a wide variety of agricultural interests,” Poppert said. “This group is the sounding board for educators as we define our curriculum going forward.” Areas of need include better communication, critical thinking, leadership, as well as other soft skills. In addition, these areas are also important: technology, sales effectiveness, mentoring and internships. “Employers that I have visited are looking for well-educated employees who exhibit a desire to continue learning,” he said. “The industry is ever changing, and the ability to adapt is critical. Because the industry is changing, employees who not only can accept change but adapt and embrace change will be valuable to the agribusiness sector.”

—If you collected state unemployment but did not pay enough income taxes into the system last year, you could face a penalty if you owe more than $1,000 in federal income taxes on your 2020 return. The IRS's Corbin said Thursday that the IRS does not have current plans to issue "blanket waivers" to those collected unemployment benefits but did not have enough taxes withheld. But Corbin left open a door that some taxpayers may be able to request a waiver of such penalties individually. He noted that "reasonable cause" waivers can be granted on a case-by-case basis. He said the IRS will be monitoring the situation involving taxable jobless benefits and any possible penalties relating to the lack of withholding enough in taxes throughout 2020. —Triple check your paperwork. While mail service seems to have improved in some areas, some people are still seeing mail delays. So the IRS is reminding taxpayers to make absolutely sure they have all of their tax documents, including Forms W-2 and 1099, before filing a tax return. Review last year's tax return and consider your sources of income in 2020, especially if you did freelance jobs. Some forms may be found online through an employer or bank. "When other options aren't available, taxpayers who haven't received a W-2 or Form 1099 should contact the employer, payer or issuing agency directly to request the missing documents before filing their 2020 federal tax return," the IRS said. Corbin said taxpayers should try to resolve issues first and not contact the IRS until late February if there continue to be problems with these forms, many of which should have been received already. —Crooks are still out to file phony tax returns. As part of a hot scheme in 2021, identity thieves increasingly are targeting tax professionals by sending an email that appears to be from the IRS. The phony email refers to “IRS Tax E-Filing” and verifying key e-file information. Crooks say things like: "In order to help protect both you and your clients from unauthorized/fraudulent activities, the IRS requires that you verify all authorized e-file originators prior to transmitting returns through our system. That means we need your EFIN (e-file identification number) verification and driver's license before you e-file." If tax pros fall for this one, the IRS notes that fraudsters can use information that's disclosed to them to file fraudulent returns by impersonating the tax professional. The email attempts to bait tax preparers into opening a link or attachment. The threat is that if they fail to do so, their ability to e-file would be disabled. Yet these links or attachments are set up to steal information or to download malware onto the tax professional’s computer. Individuals are reminded to be wary of unscrupulous individuals who may offer to prepare your taxes but also steal important ID information from you — or part of your tax refund from you — along the way. ©2021 Detroit Free Press. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

• FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

Researchers say 30 million workers are skilled enough for a 70% raise by Arianne Cohen

If you are among the 71 million Americans in the workforce without a four-year degree, you likely feel topped-out in terms of income and opportunity to expand your role. Companies often allow only degree holders to transition from Careers entry- and mid-level roles into higher-paid occupations. Do those higher paying jobs actually require four years in the hallowed halls of academia? Nope. “We found that 5 million (workers without degrees) are already in high-wage jobs, the very same jobs that many employers say you need a bachelor’s degree to do,” says Byron Auguste, CEO of nonprofit Opportunity@Work. How’s a 70% raise sound? Auguste recently partnered with experts at Harvard University and Cornell University on a study tracking the skills and jobs of non-degree holders. Researchers

overlaid Census data with Department of Labor employment statistics to see which career paths lead to comfortable salaries, also creating a new report that traces the skills and job routes of non-degree holders. “Thirty million are doing jobs that if you really look at their skills, they already have very similar skills to those in jobs that pay at least 50% more — it’s 70% more on average,” Auguste says. “So with a little bit of training and orientation, but mostly opportunity and access, they could do jobs that pay 70% more and beyond.” A whopping 11 million workers are already skilled for work that would pay even more, at roughly double their current pay. Meet your new best friend, the gateway job Your sparkly, vibrant path to one of these financially lucrative careers will appear via a gateway job. A gateway job is the stepping-stone between a lower wage role and a higher wage career, and that transition takes place based on your skills, not your

Bitcoin hits record as Mastercard, BNY Mellon embrace crypto by Olivia Raimonde and Eric Lam

Bitcoin jumped to a record high after Mastercard Inc. and Bank of New York Mellon Corp. moved to make it easier for customers to use cryptocurrencies. Financial The largest digital asset rose as much as 7.4% to $48,364, surpassing the all-time high reached Monday after Tesla Inc. announced it would hold $1.5 billion of the cryptocurrency on its balance sheet. The wider Bloomberg Galaxy Crypto Index also touched a record. “The crypto-asset world is bursting into the realms of traditional finance at a staggering pace,” said Simon Peters, an analyst at investment platform eToro. Mastercard singled out so-called “stablecoins,” which often peg their value to that of another asset, such as the U.S. dollar. Mastercard has already partnered with crypto card providers such as Wirex and BitPay, but has required digital currencies to be converted into fiat before processing payments for transactions on its network. Bank of New York Mellon Corp. said Thursday it will hold, transfer and issue Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies for institutional customers. Interest in cryptocurrencies has accelerated yet again as Tesla CEO Elon Musk, the world’s richest person, emerged as a central figure for the crypto faithful, supporting arguments among proponents that Wall Street and the mainstream are becoming more receptive to the asset class. Detractors maintain speculators are behind Bitcoin’s rise and the bubble will once again burst. Even before announcing Tesla’s bet on Bitcoin, Musk said he was a supporter of Bitcoin on a social audio app and made multiple tongue-in-cheek references on Twitter to Dogecoin — a Shiba Inu-themed crypto started as a joke — sending prices soaring. Mastercard is also “actively engaging” with central banks around the world on their plans to launch new digital currencies, the company said in a blog post on Wednesday.

“Mastercard’s plans to integrate crypto payments represents another indicator of the deep structural shifts taking place in our financial infrastructure,” said John Wu, president of Ava Labs. “Incumbent payment platforms are embracing digital currency solutions that are more equipped for the borderless, internet-enabled economy.” JPMorgan Sees Tesla Bitcoin Bet as Too Bold for Others to Follow Twitter Inc. has also done some “upfront thinking” around how to handle Bitcoin, including if employees and vendors ask to be paid in the cryptocurrency and whether the firm needs to have the digital asset on its balance sheet, CFO Ned Segal said in an interview on CNBC. “These are just the early innings of corporate adoption, as digital currencies are beginning to play a larger role in robust balance sheet management,” said Nathan Cox, chief investment officer at Two Prime, an investment firm specialized in digital asset and derivative strategy management. While Tesla’s investment of $1.5 billion put the focus on whether more companies will buy Bitcoin, the purchase is a drop in the ocean compared to the holdings of America’s blue-chip corporates. The purchase is worth just 0.05% of about $2.79 trillion of cash and cash-equivalents held on the balance sheets of S&P 500 members, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Wall Street Bets, the popular Reddit forum at the center of the retail investor frenzy, is talking about cryptocurrencies as well. The unverified Twitter account “Wallstreetbets mod” posted a call to buy Bitcoin and marijuana stocks. Regulatory scrutiny remains a wild card for crypto investors. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, speaking at a Treasury forum for financial sector innovation, warned misuse of cryptocurrencies was a growing problem. Yellen has previously raised concerns about the use of cryptocurrencies in illicit financing. ©2021 Bloomberg L.P. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC

degrees (or lack thereof). It’s the opposite of a dead-end job. A common example of a gateway job is customer service representative, a job that pays $23 per hour in the U.S. on average. It is commonly preceded by roles like receptionist, bank teller, courier, retail staffer and cashier, which average $13 to $17 per hour. After a few strong years of performance, a customer service representative can then hop into jobs like general manager, operations manager or sales representative (for a wide variety of wholesale or manufacturing fields), all of which average $25 to $26 per hour, and are available in numerous wholesale and manufacturing fields. Choosing a gateway job held by many hundreds of thousands is pivotal: The researchers found that there are only 51 gateway jobs out there that dependably catapult workers into higher salaries, and part of the reason they’re successful is that they open up lots of job opportunities. Other common gateway jobs include project manager, sales worker supervisor, licensed nurse, teacher, telecommunications line installer, bus and truck mechanic, and tax preparer. A full list is available on page 36 of the study. Understand that a gateway job is not your dream job. It’s strategic, and in some cases may be a step down. “It might pay more or less or the same, and might not be as satisfying, but often you have more of an opportunity to show what you can do, and to move up,” Auguste says. Here are four keys to choosing the right gateway. Tip #1: Look for a company with both the gateway and higher-income jobs you seek. Let’s face it: Your biggest hindrance

is the digital application systems that screen out your resume altogether due to lack of college degree. Log two years of high performance in a gateway job, and then walk into the office of your favorite HR staffer and say, “Please consider me for XYZ higher-level position.” If the person you’re speaking to holds a college degree and looks at you blankly, point out the near100% overlap between your current job skills and those required for the new job. Tip #2: Find employers that promote from within. You want a company committed to developing staffers and known for offering internal programs for credentialing and promotion. IBM is known for this. Tip #3: Consider running your own show. If reaching a gateway role proves challenging, consider entrepreneurship, perhaps as a side gig. Once you’ve performed for clients, no one can deny your resourcefulness or skills. “One of the most common job titles for those making more than twice median wages is CEO of their business,” Auguste says. “Many, many (people without college degrees) end up starting businesses on the side.” Tip #4: Keep your eye on your next gateway job. Gateway jobs usually appear at least twice along a career path. After a few years of boosting your company’s profits as a sales representative, the next gateway job could be advertising sales agent, which involves similar skills, but earns substantially larger paychecks. Happy climbing. ©2021 Rate.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

SUPER CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS

Puzzle on page 11.

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • 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 the Legal Department 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). As a publisher and not a legal advisor we print notices exactly as they are submitted and therefor only comp reruns when the notice was rejected or messed up due to a MBJ error. All companies submitting notices are responsible for ensuring the content fits with the State’s requirements and are responsible for the cost of republishing the notice if it is rejected due to misinformation or missing information 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 noon 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 the first week it runs and a copy of the affidavit filed with the courts the last week.

JOHN N. MASSIH, Attorney MASSIH LAW, LLC 226 N. 114th Street Omaha, NE 68154 LEGAL NOTICE In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR 21-69 Estate of TIMOTHY COMPTON, Deceased Notice is hereby given that on January 19th, 2021, in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, the Registrar issued a written statement of Informal Probate of the Intestacy of said Decedent and that TAMMY FLEER, of 5017 s. 93rd st. Omaha, NE 68127 was informally appointed by the Registrar as Personal Representative of the Estate. Creditors of this estate must file their claims with this Court, located at Courtroom No. 30, Third Floor, Probate Division, Douglas County Hall of Justice, 17th & Farnam Streets, Omaha, NE 68183, on or before April 5, 2021 or be forever barred. CARROL L. MILLS Registrar First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

ERIN K. ARTZ, Attorney LAMSON, DUGAN and MURRAY, LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3743 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF SERENE HOLDCO,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 Serene Holdco, Inc. The corporation is authorized to issue 10,417 shares of common stock. The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business. The company commenced existence on January 26,2021 and shall have perpetual duration. The name and street address of the corporation's initial registered agent and office is LDM Business Services, Inc., 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The name and address of the incorporator is LDM Business Services, Inc., 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114. LDM Business Services, Inc., Incorporator First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

ERICKSON l SEDERSTROM, P.C., Attorneys 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATION OF LANPHARRA DENTISTRY, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Lanpharra Dentistry, LLC, a Nebraska professional limited liability company (the “Company”), has been duly organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with its designated office located at 5050 L Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68117 and designating its registered agent as Erickson & Sederstrom, P.C. a limited liability organization with its registered office at 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The company has been organized to render dental services. First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103 Omaha, Nebraska 68164 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF MS JS INVESTMENTS, 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 MS JS Investments, LLC The name and street address of the company’s initial registered agent is Law Offices of Barbara MedberyPrchal, P.C., L.L.O., 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103, Omaha, NE 68164. The designated office is located at 6929 L Street, Omaha, NE 68117. Gerold Schuette and Mark Schuette, Members First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF MVB PROPERTIES, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that MVB Properties, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 102 North 53rd Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68132. 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 27, 2021. First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103 Omaha, Nebraska 68164 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF K HUTCHINSON 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 K Hutchinson Real Estate, LLC The name and street address of the company’s initial registered agent is Law Offices of Barbara Medbery-Prchal, P.C., L.L.O., 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103, Omaha, NE 68164. The designated office is located at 15318 Wycliffe Drive, Apt 7, Omaha, NE 68154. Keaton Hutchinson, Member First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

SCOTT A. MEYERSON, Esq. LIKES MEYERSON HATCH LLC 444 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF RED SHELL LLC Notice is hereby given that Red Shell LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company, has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The street and mailing address of the Company’s initial designated office is 12915 West Dodge Road, Omaha, NE 68154. The street and mailing address of the Company’s initial agent for service of process is 5601 S. 59th Street, Suite C, Lincoln, Nebraska 68516 and the Company’s initial agent for service of process at such address is Registered Agent Solutions, Inc. First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that Teresa Lenzen Psychotherapy, LLC, has been organized as a professional limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The designated office of the Company is 638 N 109th Plaza, Omaha, Nebraska 68154. The registered agent of the Company is Teresa Lenzen, 638 N 109th Plaza, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The Company's members, managers, professional employees and agents are licensed or otherwise legally authorized to engage in the sale of real estate in this state. The Company was formed on January 8, 2021. First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

ERIN K. ARTZ, Attorney LAMSON, DUGAN and MURRAY, LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3743 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF PHYS HOLDCO, 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 Phys Holdco, Inc. The corporation is authorized to issue 5,209 shares of common stock. The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business. The company commenced existence on January 26,202I and shall have perpetual duration. The name and street address of the corporation's initial registered agent and office is LDM Business Services, Inc., 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The name and address of the incorporator is LDM Business Services, Inc., 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114. LDM Business Services, Inc., Incorporator First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103 Omaha, Nebraska 68164 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF S.JAYMES PROPERTIES, LLC Notice is hereby given that a professional limited liability company has been formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the company is S.Jaymes Properties, LLC The name and street address of the company’s initial registered agent is Law Offices of Barbara MedberyPrchal, P.C., L.L.O., 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103, Omaha, NE 68164. The designated office is located at 5743 S. 239th Street, Elkhorn, NE 68022. Rob Henry and Missy Henry, Members First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF BAGS OF FUN OMAHA, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Bags of Fun Omaha, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the limited liability company is 2310 South 220th Avenue, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022. The Registered Agent of the limited liability company is Amy Krause, 2310 South 220th Avenue, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022 First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

HOWARD N. KAPLAN, Attorney K & K Law P.C., L.L.O. 10675 Bedford Ave., Suite 201 Omaha, Nebraska 68134 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION Corporation Name: Cultural Centers of Lincoln Incorporator: Howard N. Kaplan Incorporator Address: 10675 Bedford Avenue Suite 201, Omaha, NE 68134 Registered Agent: Howard N. Kaplan Registered Office/Agent Address: 10675 Bedford Avenue Suite 201, Omaha, NE 68134 Corporation shall engage in any lawful business for which a non-profit corporation may be formed under the Nebraska Non-Profit Corporation Act. Perpetual existence commenced on September 30, 2020, when Articles were filed with the Secretary of State. The Public Benefit affairs of the non-profit corporation are to be conducted by a Board of Directors, the officers authorized by the By-Laws and the Board, and the members of the organization. First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OFAMENDMENT AND RESTATEMENT OFARTICLES OF INCORPORATION OF LAWRENCE RECRUITING SPECIALISTS INC. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Articles of Incorporation of Lawrence Recruiting Specialists Inc., a Nebraska corporation, have been amended and restated in their entirety and were duly filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on December 21, 2020. Included in the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation is an amendment to authorize the Corporation to issue 1,000 shares of common stock having a par value of $1.00 per share, of which 10 shares are in a class designated as voting common stock and 990 shares are in a class designated as nonvoting common stock. First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

MATTHEW T. PAYNE, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF JORDAN D. HOLMES, M.D., P.C. Notice is hereby given of incorporation of JORDAN D. HOLMES, M.D., P.C. under the laws of the State of Nebraska as follows: 1. The name of the professional corporation is JORDAN D. HOLMES, M.D., 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 Michelle Cascio, 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 Jordan D. Holmes, M.D., 3418 S 102nd Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. 5. The general nature of the profession to be practiced by the Corporation is medicine and surgery. First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

• FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

LEGAL NOTICES Engle Investments, LLC 900 South 75th Street, Ste. B Omaha, NE 68134 Notice of Limited Liability Company Notice is hereby given the establishment of Engle Investments, LLC., with its’ registered office address at 900 South 75th Street, Ste. B, Omaha, NE 68134. The general nature of its business is to engage in the business of buying and selling real estate, and to engage in all lawful acts or activities for which Limited Liability Company may be organized under the Nebraska Law. The Limited Liability Company commenced doing business January 21, 2021, and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the Limited Liability Company shall be conducted by its members and managers as provided in the Operating Agreement. First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity Alumni Association of Omaha, NE, INC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity Alumni Association of Omaha, NE, Inc. has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office and the registered office of the Corporation is 9215 Fremont Street, Omaha, NE 68122. The registered agent at such office is Mark W. Slobotski. The Corporation was commenced on January 15, 2021. First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

SHAUN M. JAMES, Attorney SMITH SLUSKY POHREN & ROGERS LLP 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF BAO SALON OMAHA LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on January 29, 2021, BAO SALON OMAHA LLC was organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska, Uniform Limited Liability Company Act with a designated office at 639 N 114 Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68154. The Company’s initial agent for service of process is Shaun M. James, Smith Slusky Law, 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

CATHERINE E. FRENCH, Attorney LAMSON, DUGAN and MURRAY, LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3743 NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF IMAGINE WORKFORCE STRATEGIES, 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 IMAGINE WORKFORCE STRATEGIES, LLC. The address of the company’s initial designated office is 1006 Elk Ridge Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68022. The name and address of the registered agent is LDM Business Services, Inc., 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114. The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business. The company commenced existence on February 2, 2021 and shall have perpetual duration. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by the manager as prescribed by the Operating Agreement. LDM Business Services, Inc., Organizer First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that Lucia Marquez Law, LLC has been organized as a Limited Liability Professional Organization under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The initial designated office’s street address is 3035 Harney Street Suite 101C, Omaha, NE 68131. The initial designated office’s mailing address is 3035 Harney Street Suite 101C, Omaha, NE 68131. The Registered Agent is Lucia Marquez. The street address of the Registered Agent is 3035 Harney Street Suite 101C, Omaha, NE 68131 and the mailing address is 3035 Harney Street Suite 101C, Omaha, NE 68131. The main purpose of the business will be to engage in the practice of law through properly licensed members. First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

NOTICE OF AMENDMENT TO THE CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION FOR TROIA INVESTMENTS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Certificate of Organization of Troia Investments, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company (the “Company”), has been amended as follows: the Company has changed its name to Salix Leaf, LLC; the street and mailing address of the designated office has been changed to 10703 J Street, Suite 103, Omaha, NE 68127; and the street and mailing address of the registered agent has been changed to 10703 J Street, Suite 103, Omaha, NE 68127. The registered agent remains the same: Carl J. Troia, Jr. The Amended Certificate of Organization was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on February 2, 2021. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

JACOB A. ACERS, Attorney SMITH SUSKY POHREN & ROGERS LLP 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF BERAKAH, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on December 9, 2020, Berakah, LLC was organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act, with a designated office at 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400, Omaha, Nebraska 68114 The Company’s initial agent for service of process is Jacob A. Acers, 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

Sean A. Minahan, Attorney LAMSON, DUGAN and MURRAY, LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3743 NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF PLYMOUTH FRAME COMPANY, 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 PLYMOUTH FRAME COMPANY, LLC. The address of the company’s initial designated office is 2023 South 181st Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68130. The name and address of the registered agent is LDM Business Services, Inc., 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114. The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business. The company commenced existence on February 2, 2021 and shall have perpetual duration. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by the manager as prescribed by the Operating Agreement. LDM Business Services, Inc., Organizer First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION FOR PATRIOT POINTE HC5, LLC A Certificate of Organization was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State for Patriot Pointe HC5, LLC (the “Company”) on December 17, 2020. 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 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

ROBERT J. LIKES, Esq. LIKES MEYERSON HATCH LLC 444 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF RLB85, LLC Notice is hereby given that RLB85, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company, has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The street and mailing address of the Company’s initial designated office is 1609 South 193rd Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68130. The street and mailing address of the Company’s initial agent for service of process is 1609 South 193rd Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68130 and the Company’s initial agent for service of process at such address is Laura K. Bertsch. First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

DANIEL J. WATERS, Attorney LAMSON, DUGAN and MURRAY, LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3743 NOTICE OF AMENDMENT TO ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION OF RED BRANCH MEDIA, INC. Notice is hereby given that Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of Red Branch Media, Inc., were filed on January 25, 2021. The corporation is authorized to issue 2,000 shares of common stock. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

ERIN K. ARTZ, Attorney LAMSON, DUGAN and MURRAY, LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3743 NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF NL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, 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 NL Property Management, LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 1311 South 185th Cir., Omaha, NE 68130. The name and address of the registered agent and office is LDM Business Services, Inc, 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The general nature of the business is any or all lawful business. The company commenced existence on December 18, 2020 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 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF LOVETHEGAME, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that LoveTheGame, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 20950 State Street, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022. The registered agent and office of the limited liability company is Sam T. Wageman, 20950 State Street, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022. The limited liability company commenced business on February 3, 2021. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

JACOB A. ACERS, Attorney SMITH SLUSKY POHREN & ROGERS LLP 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF PERIGON WELLNESS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on January 4, 2021, Perigon Wellness, LLC was organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act, with a designated office at 12301 Reynolds Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68142 The Company’s initial agent for service of process is Paul Golwitzer, 12301 Reynolds Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68142. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

JACOB A. ACERS, Attorney SMITH SLUSKY POHREN & ROGERS LLP 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF A ONE GROOMING, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on January 13, 2021, A One Grooming, LLC was organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act, with a designated office at 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400, Omaha, Nebraska 68114 The Company’s initial agent for service of process is Jacob A. Acers, 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF MARY JANE DANCE, INC. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that MARY JANE DANCE, INC., is incorporated under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with a registered office at 3018 South 87th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The registered agent is SUZANNE M. KASSELMAN. The general nature of the business is to operate a general dance instruction business, to own, operate and perform services of every kind and nature whatsoever, which are not inconsistent with law, which are necessary, suitable, proper, convenient or expedient to the operation of a general dance instruction business. The authorized capital stock is $10,000.00, consisting of 10,000 shares of stock having a par value of $1.00 each, which stock shall be paid for wholly or partly by cash, by labor, by personal property and by real property. The corporation became a corporate body on October 6, 2020, and upon its Articles being filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on October 20, 2020, and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the corporation are to be conducted by a Board of Directors, the number of directors to be provided in the By-Laws, and the officers shall be a President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer, and such other officers as shall be designated in the By-Laws. ANTHONY L. GROSS, Incorporator CATHERINE L. WHITE, Incorporator 3018 South 87th Street, Omaha, NE 68124 First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF GCP III VAN ZANDTS, LLC. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that GCP III Van Zandts, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 10340 North 84th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68122. The Registered Agent of the Company is Zachary A. Wiegert, 10340 North 84th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68122. First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

TIEDEMAN, LYNCH, KAMPFE, McVAY & RESPELIERS Attorneys at Law 300 Overland Wolfe Centre 6910 Pacific Street, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68106-1045 NOTICE OF AMENDMENT TO ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION OF 1217 BUILDING, LLC Notice is hereby given that the Articles of Organization of 1217 Building, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company, has been amended to reflect its registered agent as John S. Kampfe, and its registered office as 300 Overland Wolf Centre, 6910 Pacific Street, Omaha, Nebraska 681061045. A Statement of Change of Registered Agent and Registered Agent’s Address was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on January 28, 2021. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • LEGAL NOTICES MATTHEW T. PAYNE, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF JTB TECHNOLOGIES, LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of JTB Technologies, LLC. 1. The name of the limited liability company is JTB Technologies, LLC. 2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 19133 Pinehurst Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska 68130, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is Matthew T. Payne, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

Diane Stewart-Ferro Attorney at Law 7207 South 103rd Street La Vista, NE 68128 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF SABBY’S SERVICES, LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of Sabby’s Services, LLC. The address of the initial registered office is 1721 South 10th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68108, and the initial registered agent at that office is Luke Sabaliauskas. Luke Sabaliauskas is the sole member and the affairs of the company will be conducted by the sole member. Perpetual existence commenced on the 25th day of January 2021. Dated this 4th day of February 2021. Sabby’s Services, LLC By: Luke Sabaliauskas Manager and Sole Member First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF TREATMENT SOLUTIONS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Treatment Solutions, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 14110 Olive Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68138. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

STEVEN G. RANUM, Attorney 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 FLATWATER SOFTWARE, LLC The name of the limited liability company is Flatwater Software, LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 12755 Hamilton Street, Omaha, NE 68154. The name and address of the initial agent for service of process is Steven G. Ranum, 2120 South 72nd Street, Suite 1200, Omaha, NE 68124. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

Timothy J. Buckley, Attorney SMITH, SLUSKY, POHREN & ROGERS, LLP 8712 W. Dodge Road, #400 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 LEGAL NOTICE In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR21-102 Estate of Kimberly J. Dolphin, Deceased Notice is hereby given that on February 3, 2021 in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, the Registrar issued a written statement of Informal Probate of said Decedent and that Michaela M. Dolphin, whose address is 1017 North 33rd Street, Omaha, NE 68124 and Kevin O. Dolphin whose address is 1323 N. 140th Avenue, Omaha, NE 68118, were informally appointed by the Registrar as Co-Personal Representatives of the 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 12, 2021 or be forever barred. CARROL L. MILLS Registrar First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

Notice of Incorporation of Rank the Vote Nebraska. Notice is hereby given that Rank the Vote Nebraska has been incorporated under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Corporation is a public benefit corporation and shall have no members. It’s initial registered agent is Cynthia S. Maxwell-Ostdiek, 16626 Harney St. Omaha, NE 68118. The original incorporator is Cynthia S. Maxwell-Ostdiek, 16626 Harney St. Omaha, NE 68118. The corporate existence began on February 2, 2021 First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

MARK J. LAPUZZA, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF LINCOLN WAY SOUTH HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION Notice is hereby given of incorporation of Lincoln Way South Homeowners Association under the laws of the State of Nebraska as follows: 1. The name of the corporation is Lincoln Way South Homeowners Association. 2. The Lincoln Way South Homeowners Association is a mutual benefit corporation. 3. The street address of the Corporation's initial registered office is 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68116. The name of its initial registered agent at that office is Mark J. LaPuzza. 4. The name and address of the incorporator is as follows: Marc Stodola 3803 N. 153rd Street, Suite 200 Omaha, NE 68116 Mike Freestone 3803 N. 153rd Street, Suite 200 Omaha, NE 68116 5. The Corporation shall engage in any lawful business for which a corporation may be formed under the Nebraska Nonprofit Corporation Act. 6. The Corporation shall have members. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

CARLSON & BURNETT, LLP, Attorneys 17525 Arbor Street Omaha, Nebraska 68130 NOTICE OF AMENDMENT – NEIGHBORS FOR COMMON GOOD Notice is hereby given that on February 5, 2021, NEIGHBORS FOR COMMON GOOD, a Nebraska corporation, filed an Amendment to its Articles of Incorporation. The Amendment stated the Company changed its Articles of Incorporation and will have members. The amendment was approved unanimously by the Board of Directors in accordance with the Bylaws. In all other respects, the Articles of Incorporation remain unchanged. By: Alyssa Preciado, President First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

Notice Of Organization Of Porta Potty Solutions, LLC Notice is hereby given that Porta Potty Solutions, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office address of the Company is 1125 S. 119th St, Omaha, NE 68144. The registered agent of the Company is Philip S. Murante, whose mailing address is 1125 S 119th St, Omaha, NE 68144. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

Darren R. Carlson, Attorney CARLSON & BURNETT, LLP 17525 Arbor Street Omaha, Nebraska 68130 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF LOT 27, LLC Notice is hereby given that LOT 27, LLC is organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The initial designated office is 17525 Arbor Street, Omaha, NE 68130. The Company’s initial registered agent in the State of Nebraska is: Darren R. Carlson, whose address is 17525 Arbor Street, Omaha, NE 68130. The purpose of the Company is to engage in any lawful business and activity, as may be mutually agreed upon by the Members from time to time, and which are not prohibited by the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The Company commenced with filing its Certificate of Organization on February 5, 2021, and shall have a perpetual period of duration. The Company is a Member Managed Limited Liability Company. Darren R. Carlson, Organizer First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

CATHERINE E. FRENCH, Attorney LAMSON, DUGAN and MURRAY, LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3743 NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF RENEE HOERSCHELMANN, LLC Notice is hereby given of the formation of a limited liability company under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the limited liability company is RENEE HOERSCHELMANN, LLC. The address of the company’s initial designated office is, 7012 S 161st Cir, Omaha, NE 68136. The name and address of the registered agent is LDM Business Services, Inc., 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114. The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business. The company commenced existence on February 4, 2021 and shall have perpetual duration. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by the manager as prescribed by the Operating Agreement. LDM Business Services, Inc., Organizer First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

SEAN D. MOYLAN, Attorney 1010 South 120th Street, Suite 320 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF ELKHORN SPORTS PERFORMANCE, LLC The name of the Company is Elkhorn Sports Performance, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company. The initial registered agent is Sean Moylan located at 1010 S. 120th Street, Suite #320, Omaha, Nebraska 68154. The initial designated office of the Company is located at 19111 Mason Plaza, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022. This limited liability company commenced business on February 3, 2021. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that JEWELL PUBLISHING, LLC has organized pursuant to R.R.S. Section 21-101 et seq. The registered office is located at 12020 Shamrock Plaza, Suite 200, Omaha, Nebraska 68154, and the registered agent at that address is THOMAS H. PENKE. The Designated office is: 11597 South 207th Street, Gretna, Nebraska 68028. The nature of the business to be transacted is any lawful business. The business commenced on February 5, 2021 and is perpetual. The affairs of the company are to be conducted by the President, Secretary and Treasurer. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

SHAUN M. JAMES, Attorney SMITH SLUSKY POHREN & ROGERS LLP 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF EIRENE LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on January 19, 2021, Eirene LLC was organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Act, with a designated office at 1325 Lynnwood Lane, Omaha, Nebraska 68152. The Company’s initial agent for service of process is Shaun M. James, 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF PULLED BBQ, INC. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that PULLED BBQ, INC., is incorporated under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with a regis¬tered office at 2202 North 152nd Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68116. The registered agent is KRISTINE R. FULLER. The general nature of the business is to operate a general restaurant and barbeque business, to own, operate and perform services of every kind and nature whatsoever, which are not inconsistent with law, which are necessary, suitable, proper, convenient or expedient to the operation of a general restaurant and barbeque business. The authorized capital stock is $10,000.00, consisting of 10,000 shares of stock having a par value of $1.00 each, which stock shall be paid for wholly or partly by cash, by labor, by personal property and by real property. The corporation became a corporate body on January 6, 2021, and upon its Articles being filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on January 28, 2021, and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the corporation are to be conducted by a Board of Directors, the number of directors to be provided in the By-Laws, and the officers shall be a President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer, and such other officers as shall be designated in the By-Laws. ANTHONY L. GROSS, Incorporator CATHERINE L. WHITE, Incorporator 3018 South 87th Street, Omaha, NE 68124 First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF STIMULADE HEALTH & NUTRITION, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that STIMULADE Health & Nutrition, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 1101 Jackson Street, Unit 307, Omaha, Nebraska 68102. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that SierraLincolnBenni, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office of the Company is 18108 Honeysuckle Drive, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022. The Registered Agent of the Company is Jonathan Jones, 18108 Honeysuckle Drive, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022. The Company was formed on February 2, 2021. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

• FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

LEGAL NOTICES Jeffrey T. Palzer, Attorney KELLOGG & PALZER, P.C. 10828 Old Mill Road, Suite 6 Omaha, Nebraska 68154-2647 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION 1. The name of the Company is SUNSET HOMES & PROPERTIES, LLC. 2. The street address of the initial designated office is 1309 South 204th Street, Suite #314, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022. The registered agent is Tracy A. Ostlund and the Registered Agent's address is 1309 South 204th Street, Suite #314, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022. 3. The general nature of the Company is property construction, remodeling and management. 4. The Company commenced on February 4, 2021, and shall have perpetual existence. 5. The affairs of the Company are to be conducted by Members, the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and such other officers as the Members shall determine. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that KDKLK LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office of the Company is 7956 S 171st Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68136. The Registered Agent of the Company is Steve Sheppard, 1237 S 119th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68144. The Company was formed on February 8, 2021. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF DREAMVESTING PROPERTIES I, LLC The name of the Company is Dreamvesting Properties I, 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 8, 2021. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF DREAMVESTING PROPERTIES III, LLC The name of the Company is Dreamvesting Properties III, 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 8, 2021. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF DREAMVESTING PROPERTIES II, LLC The name of the Company is Dreamvesting Properties II, 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 8, 2021. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF FLAIR FARMS LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Flair Farms LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 16850 Frances Street, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68130. The Registered Agent of the Company is William E. Stevens, 16850 Frances Street, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68130. First publication February 5, 2021, final February 19, 2021

NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that GC Residential Real Estate, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company, filed its Statement of Dissolution with the Nebraska Secretary of State on February 8, 2021, and the company is in the process of voluntary dissolution. The terms and conditions of such dissolution are, in general, that all debts and obligations of the company are to be fully paid and satisfied or adequate provision is to be made therefore, and that the balance of any remaining assets are to be distributed to its Members. Kendra Ringenberg will wind up and liquidate the company’s business and affairs. If you have a claim against the company, 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 GC Residential Real Estate, LLC, c/o Kendra Ringenberg, 14301 FNB Parkway, Suite 204, Omaha, NE 68154. A claim against the company 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 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF AMENDMENT AND RESTATEMENT OF THE ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION OF HOTSHOT DELIVERIES, INC. Notice if hereby given that the Articles of Incorporation of HotShot Deliveries, Inc. have been amended and restated in their entirety as follows: Articles 1 states the name of the Corporation as Cartage Management, Inc. Article 2 states the registered Office of the Corporation is 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska 68124, and the registered agent at such address is Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O. Articles 3 states the purpose. Article 4 states that the Corporation is authorized to issue 10,000 shares of common stock having a par value of $1.00 each. Article 5 states that the Corporation shall have perpetual existence. Article 6 states the provisions relating to amending the Articles and Bylaws. Article 7 states the provisions relating to director liability. The Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation were filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on February 3, 2021. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

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 Faith Baptist Church of Omaha, a Nebraska nonprofit corporation (the "Church"), has filed Articles of Dissolution with the Nebraska Secretary of State on February 4, 2021, and the Church has voluntarily dissolved. The Church’s sole assets are cash reserves held in financial or banking accounts maintained by the Church, and the Church has no liabilities. The terms and conditions of such dissolution are, in general, that all debts and obligations of the Church have been fully paid and satisfied and any remaining assets will be distributed in accordance with the Church’s Articles of Incorporation. The Trustee, Jane Slotemaker, will wind up the Church’s business and affairs. The Church’s remaining assets shall be distributed in accordance with the Plan of Dissolution. First publication February 12, 2021, final February 26, 2021

BENJAMIN J. PICK, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF PARK AVE CAPITAL 2, LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of Park Ave Capital 2, LLC: 1. The name of the limited liability company is Park Ave Capital 2, LLC; and 2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is Benjamin J. Pick, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

BARBARA MEDBERY-PRCHAL, P.C., L.L.O., Attorney 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103 Omaha, Nebraska 68164 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF AFU CUSTOM CONSTRUCTION, 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 AFU Custom Construction, LLC The name and street address of the company’s initial registered agent is Law Offices of Barbara MedberyPrchal, P.C., L.L.O., 11102 Blondo Street, Suite 103, Omaha, NE 68164. The designated office is located at 5030 S. 135th Street, Omaha, NE 68137. Andrew Ullsperger and Sarah Ullsperger, Member First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that My Whiskey Barrel L.L.C. (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office of the Company is 17322 Orchard Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska 68135. The Registered Agent of the Company is Greg P. Schmaderer, 17322 Orchard Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska 68135. The Company was formed on February 10, 2021. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF BlingRing LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that BlingRing LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 11904 Arbor Street, Suite 201, Omaha, Nebraska 68144. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

THOMAS H. PENKE, Attorney 12020 Shamrock Plaza, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 LEGAL NOTICE In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR21-214 Estate of DENISE M. JOHNSON, Deceased. Notice is hereby given that on February 10, 2021, in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, RUSSELL N. JOHNSON, whose address is 3742 Cornhusker Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68124, 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 19, 2021 or be forever barred. CARROL MILLS Registrar First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that 47 Properties LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office of the Company is 8419 N 30th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68112. The Registered Agent of the Company is Caleb Dempsey, 8419 N 30th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68112. The Company was formed on January 7, 2021. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF GCP III VAN ZANDT DEVELOPMENT, LLC. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that GCP III Van Zandt Development, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 10340 North 84th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68122. The Registered Agent of the Company is Zachary A. Wiegert, 10340 North 84th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68122. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

NOTICE OF INCORPORATION Notice is hereby given that the undersigned has formed a corporation under the laws of the State of Nebraska. 1. The name of the corporation is ETERNAL VALUE FINANCIAL CORP. 2. The address of the registered office is 3345 N 107th, Omaha, NE 68134, and the initial registered agent at the address is Mark Munger. 3. The general nature of business is to provide a business, and to do business which is not forbidden by the laws of the State of Nebraska. 4. The authorized capital stock of the corporation is 1,000 shares of common stock with a par value of $1.00 per share, each of which may be issued for any medium permissible under the laws of the State of Nebraska and as is determined from time-to-time by the Board of Directors. 5. The corporation commenced existence on February 2, 2021 and shall have perpetual existence. 6. The affairs of the corporation shall be conducted by a Board of Directors, President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer, and such other officers as may be chosen by the Board of Directors. 7. The incorporator is Mark Munger. The address of incorporator is 3345 N 107th, Omaha, NE 68134 Mark Munger Incorporator First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • LEGAL NOTICES SHAUN M. JAMES, Attorney SMITH SLUSKY POHREN & ROGERS LLP 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION NB ELECTRICAL LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company, with its registered office at 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400, Omaha, Nebraska 68114, has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The registered agent is Shaun M. James, 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400, Omaha, NE 68114. The designated office is 20702 Parker Street, Elkhorn, NE 68022. The Limited Liability Company shall engage in any lawful business for which a limited liability company may be formed under the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act. The perpetual existence commenced October 23, 2020. Its affairs are to be conducted by its Members pursuant to an Operating Agreement duly adopted by the Company. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADE NAME Trade Name to be registered is: Belle Advanced Aesthetics Name of Applicant: Advanced Vascular and Vein Center, LLC Address: 4242 Farnam Street, Suite 490, Omaha, NE 68131 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: upon filing General nature of business: aesthetic services TAYLOR C. DIECKMAN Signature of Applicant or Legal Representative February 19, 2021

MATTHEW T. PAYNE, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF MCK GROUP SERVICES, LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of MCK Group Services, LLC. 1. The name of the limited liability company is MCK Group Services, LLC. 2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 17328 Monroe Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68135, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is Enrique Meraz, 17328 Monroe Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68135. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

SMITH SLUSKY POHREN & ROGERS LLP 8712 West Dodge Road, # 400 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION LONG DOG FAT CAT V LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company, with its registered office at 16909 Burke Street, BAY 126, Omaha, Nebraska 68118, has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The registered agent is Shaun M. James, 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400, Omaha, NE 68114. The Limited Liability Company shall engage in any lawful business for which a limited liability company may be formed under the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act. The perpetual existence commenced October 13, 2020. Its affairs are to be conducted by its Members pursuant to an Operating Agreement duly adopted by the Company. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

JOHN Q. BACHMAN, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF ASHBURY CREEK HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION Notice is hereby given of the incorporation of Ashbury Creek Homeowners Association under the laws of the State of Nebraska as follows: 1. The name of the Corporation is Ashbury Creek Homeowners 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 names and street addresses of the incorporators are: Gerald L. Torczon 11205 South 150th Street, Suite 100 Omaha, NE 68138 Jeffery S. Torczon 11205 South 150th Street, Suite 100 Omaha, NE 68138 5. The Corporation will have members. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

Final Notice and Public Explanation of a Proposed Activity in a Wetland To: All interested Agencies, Groups, and Individuals This is to give notice that the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under 24 CFR Part 50 has conducted an evaluation as required by Executive Order 11990 and in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20, “Procedures for Making Determinations on Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands” to determine the potential affect that its activity in the wetland will have on the human environment for HUD’s Section 221(d)(4) mortgage insurance program. The proposed project is located on the northwest corner or N. 156th Street and State Street in Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska. The scope of the project for Hanover Flats includes HUD-insured financing for the construction of a five (5) building, 205-unit multifamily apartment complex with one (1) office/club house building. The improvements are contained within 9.5 acres of an overall 45 acre mixed-use development (Hanover Falls Center). The remaining ground is available for future development. A wetland delineation following the 1987 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Wetland Delineation Manual and the 2010 USACE Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Midwest Region (Version 2.0) was completed and eight (8) Palustrine Emergent Seasonally Flooded (PEMC) wetlands were identified along the two (2) drainages that cross the site. No difference in the number or amount of wetlands found on site will result from using the 1987 manual as opposed to the 1989 manual. These wetlands provide natural functions such as flood control, wildlife habitat, base flow maintenance, as well as sediment and nutrient removal. The total acreage of wetlands is 0.19 acres. HUD has reevaluated the alternatives to building in the wetlands and has determined that it has no practicable alternative. Environmental files that document compliance with Steps 3 through 6 of Executive Order 11990 are available for public inspection, review, and copying upon request at the times and location delineated in the last paragraph of this notice for receipt of comments. Therefore, HUD will proceed with the preferred alternative based on the following reasons: 1) The need for housing in northwest Omaha, including the need for affordable housing. 2) The request by the city that the road crossing being located in its current planned location. 3) The need to construct an economically feasible project. 4) The ability to mitigate and minimize impacts to wetlands on the property. The impacts to wetlands have been minimized to the maximum extent possible while still meeting design and zoning criteria. The remaining wetlands on site will be protected with erosion control and sediment control best management practices in accordance with the USACE NWP No. 29. There are three primary purposes for this notice. First, people who may be affected by activities in floodplains and those who have an interest in the protection of the natural environment should be given an opportunity to express their concerns and provide information about these areas. Second, an adequate public notice program can be an important public educational tool. The dissemination of information about floodplains can facilitate and enhance Federal efforts to reduce the risks associated with the occupancy and modification of these special areas. Third, as a matter of fairness, when the Federal government determines it will participate in actions taking place in floodplains, it must inform those who may be put at greater or continued risk. Written comments must be received by HUD at the following address on or before February 26, 2021: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 400 State Avenue, Room 200, Kansas City, KS 66101. Attention: Larry Hall, Appraiser. Comments may also be submitted via email to Larry.D.Hall@hud.gov. A full description of the project may also be reviewed by request and HUD will provide suitable opportunity for review during the current Covid-19 pandemic. Contact HUD at Larry.D.Hall@hud. gov or 913-551-5519. February 19, 2021

APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADE NAME Trade Name to be registered is: American Arborist Name of Applicant: LoLoW, LLC Address: 8514 Burt Street Omaha NE 68114 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: January 1, 2009 General nature of business: Tree Services MITCH WAITE Signature of Applicant or Legal Representative February 19, 2021

Jeffrey T. Palzer, Attorney at Law KELLOGG & PALZER, P.C. 10828 Old Mill Road, Suite 6 Omaha, Nebraska 68154-2647 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION 1. The name of the Company is NEBRASKA DISC GOLF COMPANY, LLC. 2. The street address of the initial designated office is 3433 T Street, Omaha, Nebraska, 68107. The registered agent is William Schram and the Registered Agent's address is 3433 T Street, Omaha, Nebraska, 68107. 3. The general nature of the Company is retail sales of disc golf goods, organizing disc golf tournaments and training/education courses. 4. The Company commenced on February 12, 2021, and shall have perpetual existence. 5. The affairs of the Company are to be conducted by Members, the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and such other officers as the Members shall determine. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

Julia K. Palzer, Attorney at Law KELLOGG & PALZER, P.C. 10828 Old Mill Road, Suite 6 Omaha, Nebraska 68154-2647 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION 1. The name of the Company is FORD RENTALS & REHABS, LLC. 2. The street address of the initial designated office is 8213 Keystone Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68134. The registered agent is Brent Ford and the Registered Agent's address is 8213 Keystone Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68134. 3. The general nature of the Company is property real estate holding. 4. The Company commenced on February 12, 2021, and shall have perpetual existence. 5. The affairs of the Company are to be conducted by Members, the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and such other officers as the Members shall determine. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

NOTICE OF INCORPORATION 1. The name of the Corporation is Ground Control Irrigation Company. 2. The Corporation is authorized to issue 1,000 shares of common stock having a par value of $1.00 each. 3. The Registered Office of the Corporation is: 11302 N Hwy 75, Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska 68152, and the Registered Agent at such address is Daniel Newcomer. 4. Articles of Incorporation were filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on January 26,2021. 5. The name and address of the Incorporator is: Daniel Newcomer, 11302 N Hwy 75, Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska 68152. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

The Nebraska limited liability company’s name is Scouting the Unknown, LLC. The name of its initial agent for service of process is Joseph J. Skudlarek. The street and mailing address of its initial designated office and of its initial agent for service of process is 1055 North 115 Street - STE 301, Omaha, NE 68154. The Company is not organized to render a professional service as defined in § 21-117(b). /s/ Ryan Sallans, Organizer. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

MICHAEL J. WEAVER, Attorney VANDENACK WEAVER LLC 17007 Marcy Street, Suite 3 Omaha, Nebraska 68118 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF HERITAGE POINTE MERIDIAN MASTER TENANT LLC Notice is hereby given that HERITAGE POINTE MERIDIAN MASTER TENANT LLC has been organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The address of the initial designated office of the company is 16934 Frances Street, Suite 200, Omaha, NE 68130. The agent for service of process for the Company is VW Agents LLC located at 17007 Marcy Street, Suite 3, Omaha, NE 68118. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

KENDRA RINGENBERG, Attorney RINGENBERG & RATTNER LAW 14301 FNB Parkway, Suite 204 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF 14410 STONY BROOK CARWASH RE, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that 14410 Stony Brook Carwash RE, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 222 S. 15th Street, Suite 1404S, Omaha, Nebraska 68102. The Registered Agent of the Company is Kendra J. Ringenberg, Ringenberg & Rattner Law, LLC, 14301 FNB Parkway, Suite 204, Omaha, Nebraska 68154. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION 1. The name of the Corporation is SammyStrong. 2. The Corporation is a public benefit corporation. 3. The Registered Office of the Corporation is: 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124, and the Registered Agent at such address is Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O. 4. The name and address of the Incorporator is as follows: Dan M. McMahon, 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. 5. The Corporation shall have no members. 6. The corporate existence began on February 11, 2021, when Articles of Incorporation were filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

• FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

LEGAL NOTICES WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that Mardos Auto Transport LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office of the Company is 11717 Ruggles Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68164. The Registered Agent of the Company is Josiel Dos Santos, 11717 Ruggles Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68164. The Company was formed on February 8, 2021. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADE NAME Trade Name to be registered is: Shamrock Development, Inc. Name of Applicant: Michael T. Moylan, P.C. Address: 225 North 12th Street, Unit #318, Omaha, NE 68102 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: July 12, 1996 General nature of business: Real Estate Development and Services MICHAEL MOYLAN Signature of Applicant or Legal Representative February 19, 2021

STEVEN G. RANUM, Attorney 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 HOMES BY J.E.S., LLC The name of the limited liability company is Homes by J.E.S., LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 2011 N 156 Street, Omaha, NE 68116. The name and address of the initial agent for service of process is Travis Freeman, 2011 N 156 Street, Omaha, NE 68116. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

PREMIER CLAIMS OF MINNESOTA, L.L.C. NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that PREMIER CLAIMS OF MINNESOTA, L.L.C., a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The initial agent for service of process is Nicholas R. Andersen, 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

PREMIER CLAIMS OF MISSOURI, L.L.C. NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that PREMIER CLAIMS OF MISSOURI, L.L.C., a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The initial agent for service of process is Nicholas R. Andersen, 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

PREMIER CLAIMS OF OHIO, L.L.C. NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that PREMIER CLAIMS OF OHIO, L.L.C., a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The initial agent for service of process is Nicholas R. Andersen, 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

PREMIER CLAIMS OF OKLAHOMA, L.L.C. NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that PREMIER CLAIMS OF OKLAHOMA, L.L.C., a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The initial agent for service of process is Nicholas R. Andersen, 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

PREMIER CLAIMS OF IOWA, L.L.C. NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that PREMIER CLAIMS OF IOWA, L.L.C., a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The initial agent for service of process is Nicholas R. Andersen, 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

PREMIER CLAIMS OF COLORADO, L.L.C. NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that PREMIER CLAIMS OF COLORADO, L.L.C., a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The initial agent for service of process is Nicholas R. Andersen, 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

PREMIER CLAIMS OF KANSAS, L.L.C. NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that PREMIER CLAIMS OF KANSAS, L.L.C., a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The initial agent for service of process is Nicholas R. Andersen, 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

PREMIER CLAIMS OF FLORIDA, L.L.C. NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that PREMIER CLAIMS OF FLORIDA, L.L.C., a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The initial agent for service of process is Nicholas R. Andersen, 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

PREMIER CLAIMS OF LOUISIANA, L.L.C. NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that PREMIER CLAIMS OF LOUISIANA, L.L.C., a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The initial agent for service of process is Nicholas R. Andersen, 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF THE GOLDEN FIRST RESPONDERS FLAG, LCC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that The Golden First Responders Flag, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office of the Company is 14019 Manderson Plaza, #107 Omaha, NE 68164. Registered Agent of the Company is Robert M. Connely, 14019 Manderson Plaza, #107, Omaha, NE 68164. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

PREMIER CLAIMS OF SOUTH DAKOTA, L.L.C. NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that PREMIER CLAIMS OF SOUTH DAKOTA, L.L.C., a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The initial agent for service of process is Nicholas R. Andersen, 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADE NAME Trade Name to be registered is: Poplar Workshop Name of Applicant: James Holmes Address: 6030 N 105th St Omaha NE 68134 Applicant is a Individual If other than an Individual, state under whose laws entity was formed: Date of first use of name in Nebraska: 01/01/2021 General nature of business: General woodworking products and services JAMES HOLMES Signature of Applicant or Legal Representative February 19, 2021

PREMIER CLAIMS OF TEXAS, L.L.C. NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that PREMIER CLAIMS OF TEXAS, L.L.C., a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The initial agent for service of process is Nicholas R. Andersen, 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

PREMIER CLAIMS OF WYOMING, L.L.C. NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that PREMIER CLAIMS OF WYOMING, L.L.C., a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The initial agent for service of process is Nicholas R. Andersen, 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

PREMIER CLAIMS OF GEORGIA, L.L.C. NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that PREMIER CLAIMS OF GEORGIA, L.L.C., a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The initial agent for service of process is Nicholas R. Andersen, 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

PREMIER CLAIMS OF NEBRASKA, L.L.C. NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that PREMIER CLAIMS OF NEBRASKA, L.L.C., a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The initial agent for service of process is Nicholas R. Andersen, 120 Regency Parkway #115, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADE NAME Trade Name to be registered is: Best Burger. Omaha Name of Applicant: Ay Spivey, LLC Address: 2734 Newport Ave Omaha, NE 68112 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: December 2019 General nature of business: food and beverage service AY SPIVEY Signature of Applicant or Legal Representative February 19, 2021

William E. Olson OLSON ZALEWSKI WYNNER LLP 575 Fallbrook Blvd., Suite 100 Lincoln, NE 68521 NOTICE OF FILING OF ARTICLES OF AMENDMENT TO THE ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION OF TEWS HOLDINGS, INC. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation for Benefit Planning Company of Nebraska, Inc. have been filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State's Office. The Registered Office is location at 9300Underwood Ave, Suite 500, Omaha, Nebraska. The registered agent is Michael F. Tews. The Amended Articles of Incorporation change the name of the Corporation from Benefit Planning Company of Nebraska, Inc. to Tews Holdings, Inc. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF AMENDMENT TO THE CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION OF HELLO SUGAR, LLC Notice is hereby given that the Certificate of Organization of Hello Sugar, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company, has been amended to reflect its designated office as 7012 N. 102nd Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68122 and its registered agent as Nathan Newhouse, 7012 N. 102nd Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68122. The Amended Certificate of Organization was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on January 8, 2021. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • 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 THE HARBOR SENIOR CARE, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that The Harbor Senior Care, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 3101 North 177th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68116. 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 9, 2021. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF GILLE PROPERTIES, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Gille Properties, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 3101 North 177th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68116. 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 9, 2021. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

Retiring early? Tap your 401(k), wait until 70 for Social Security by Carla Fried

For all the advice that working longer is one of the best ways to shore up your retirement plan, it isn’t always practical. Even before the pandemic recession, which hit older workers hard, unemployment and illness caused many workers within a decade or so of 65 to stop working Retirement earlier than planned. If you’re considering retirement earlier than expected, you have the challenge of creating a steady income stream that can support you through what may be a 25- to 30-year retirement. Quite often, people link when they retire with when they “should” start claiming Social Security. Yet, if you retire in your early 60s and start Social Security, you are leaving serious money on the table. Stretch your retirement savings New research gives important guidance on how to stretch your retirement dollars the furthest: In your 60s, lean on withdrawals from your 401(k) and don’t start claiming Social Security. That is, use withdrawals from your 401(k) as a “bridge” during your 60s so you can afford to delay claiming Social Security until age 70. While you can start claiming your Social Security retire-

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF DIAL’S CREATIVE CUSTOMS, LLC Notice is hereby given that Dial’s Creative Customs, LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with initial designated office at 2503 Parker Street, Omaha, NE 68111. The initial agent for service of process of the Company is Registered Agent, Inc. 530 South 13th Street Suite 100 Lincoln, NE 68508. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF CHEESEBURGER’S OMAHA SW, LLC The name of the Company is Cheeseburger’s Omaha SW, LLC. The Designated Office of the Company is: 1108 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 16, 2021. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADE NAME Trade Name to be registered is: Redding Asset Management Name of Applicant: Redding Financial, LLC Address: 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300, Omaha, NE 68114 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: February 9, 2021 General nature of business: The business provides investment advice to individuals and institutions. JOHN P. HEJKAL, Sole Member Signature of Applicant or Legal Representative February 19, 2021

ROBERT J. LIKES, Esq. LIKES MEYERSON HATCH LLC 444 Regency Parkway Drive, # 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF TUCKERED, LLC Notice is hereby given that TUCKERED, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company, has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The street and mailing address of the Company’s initial designated office is 1608 S. 219th Avenue, Elkhorn, NE 68022. The street and mailing address of the Company’s initial agent for service of process is 1608 S. 219th Avenue, Elkhorn, NE 68022 and the Company’s initial agent for service of process at such address is Daniel Wehrmann. First publication February 19, 2021, final March 5, 2021

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ment benefit at age 62, doing so locks in the minimum benefit you are entitled to. Waiting until age 70 to start entitles you the maximum benefit. And the gap is massive: Start at 62 and your benefit will be around 76% less than if you wait until age 70 to start. There is no risk-free investment out there that hands you a guaranteed 76% return over eight years. Only Social Security delivers that in today’s world of limited income options. Yet fewer than 10% of retirees wait until age 70 to begin receiving their Social Security payout. Plan for longevity Unless you have a pre-existing condition that suggests a shorter-than-average life expectancy, waiting for that higher payout will more than pay off assuming you live into your mid 80s. (For the record, if you make it to 65, the odds are that you will indeed live at least that long.) That might seem beside the point if you’re stopping work at 62 or 64 or 66, and need money to live on. You might be thinking you simply don’t have the luxury to wait to claim Social Security. Understood. But if you have money saved in a 401(k), the wonks at the Center for Retirement Studies at Boston College (CRR) have crunched the numbers and found that many retirees will lock in a better long-term retirement income stream if they use a “Social Security Bridge strategy.” Step 1: Don’t start Social Security in your 60s. Wait until age 70. Step 2: Make withdrawals from your 401(k) that are equal to what your Social Security benefit would be if claiming at your “full retirement age.” Your FRA is somewhere between 66 and 67 for anyone born in 1943 or later. You can find yours at the Social Security website, ssa.gov. 401(k) vs. Social Security The CRR researchers created a model using household survey data from 2016 that showed 65-year-old single men who had 401(k) savings had a median account value of $106,000 and were eligible for an annual Social Security benefit around $15,400. Women with 401(k) savings had a median account value of $110,000 and were eligible for an annual Social Security payout of around $14,500. They then calculated how withdrawing money from the 401(k), in place of drawing Social Security, compared to buying an immediate-income annuity or a deferred income annuity. For the record: Both of these types of annuities are solid ways to generate guaranteed retirement income. But as the researchers note, even when they may be a smart strategy, retirees have shown little appetite for handing over a big chunk of their savings to an insurance company. Your Social Security benefit is in effect an annuity that you already own. The researchers set out to see how waiting for the optimal time to claim — age 70 — stacked up against the commercial annuities you could use to generate guaranteed retirement income. The model factored in investment risk (for a diversified retirement portfolio), life expectancy, and the probability of later-life spending “shocks” (see: healthcare expenses). For both a single man and woman, with median 401(k) wealth, drawing down a portion of their retirement savings as a “bridge” that allows them to delay claiming Social Security is the best way to go to generate optimal retirement income. The strategy is also smart for households with above-average 401(k) savings. Full retirement age If you register at the Social Security website you can get an estimate of your Social Security benefits if you were to claim at 62, at your full retirement age or at age 70. Then you can decide if you want to withdraw your FRA amount (or less) from your 401(k) so you wait to claim Social Security as long as possible. Not sure about all the moving pieces? This is where hiring a fiduciary financial planner to work through the numbers with you can be a great investment. Plenty of planners will take on the assignment and charge an hourly or project fee. No need to enter into a long-term ongoing relationship if that’s not what you want. ©2021 Rate.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

• FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

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LoCo Omaha satiates hunger for locally-owned food delivery service Continued from page 1. vice is extremely rare in the food delivery industry,” Seaman said. “LoCo Omaha is the only delivery operation in Nebraska with a co-operative model, allowing restaurants equity opportunities and a share of the profits.” Nebraska does have a longstanding commitment to co-ops elsewhere within the food system, he noted; for instance, in addition to aforementioned grain co-ops, the Nebraska Food Co-op is a year-round, online farmer’s market. “Nebraska LoCo Co-Operative LCA is a multistakeholder co-operative, starting with two member classes: local restaurants and a managing member that holds the LoCo licensee,” Seaman explained. “Omaha LoCo is like the old-school farmer cooperatives Nebraska helped pioneer more than 100 years ago; each local restaurant member has an equal vote on matters that come before the membership. That share does not decrease or increase in value and

cannot be sold without the co-operative’s permission.” By electing its board of directors, members have “collaborative control” over operations. “Every year, the net margins are distributed to members, based primarily on how much they use the co-operative,” he said. A whirlwind went on behind the scenes to make this model a reality, considering drivers such as the stay-at-home economy and related consumer shifts didn’t exist until March at the pandemic’s onset. “When I started hearing about the devastating impact third-party restaurant delivery services were having on local, independent restaurants — spurred in part by social media reports — I began talking about the possibility of local delivery options,” said Seaman, a 20-plus-year veteran in the newspaper delivery space. Readers may be familiar with that Facebook post; the one where a Chicago

food truck operator posted his late April statement from a national provider. The statement revealed that, of 46 orders totaling more than $1,000, his business netted less than $400. The balance went to the provider’s commission and an array of fees. The post went viral. These practices are giving rise to an onslaught of legal action, as well as efforts by municipalities to “cap” the very fees that restaurants have taken issue with for some time. In a pandemic world, persistent issues are highlighted due to elevated reliance on such services. Seaman found an ally in Brian O’Malley, a lifelong local restaurant authority who would go on to be his business partner and serve as the co-op’s president. “Omaha restaurants need our support, especially during COVID-19,” he said, noting that their model keeps profits “in the community, unlike national third-party services, which take as much as a 30% commission from restaurants, while charging

Omaha-based startup driverDOC poised to accelerate growth after capital raise Continued from page 1. heavy machinery, custody of goods that drive our economy, manual labor, separation from family, etc. Other solutions on the market add data entry clerks and phone operators to their resumes. The data entry and administrative part must go away so drivers can focus on what matters most — driving safely.” Organized as a “qualified opportunity zone” startup, the firm and its investors can take advantage of opportunity zone tax breaks. The company recently closed a $400,000 seed round led by The Pearl Fund, with additional investments from angel investors. By focusing on the driver experience, Kolar is building a logistics solution that is simple to use and that runs automatically so that truck drivers can safely focus on driving instead of manually communicating via email, phone calls or texts while on the road. What’s more, it solves a problem for the entire supply chain, from placing orders to shipping and receiving, and to answer the basic question that everyone along the chain wants to know: “Where’s the freight?” When building the software, Kolar, who spent over a decade in logistics while working in the parcel, rail, intermodal and trucking industries, and whose stepdad drives a truck, kept the driver’s experience front and center. “As I reflected on the experiences of being out on the road and the time it took to get paid and things like that, then the more I was exposed to the friction between the drivers and the companies, that the technology wasn’t the right way for the drivers,” he said. “The more we’ve talked with drivers themselves, just the basic necessities of back-and-forth communication and how current technology works, it’s bad for them. And so that’s where we’re saying there’s this experience that’s really missing through the supply chain.” By staying focused on the driver experience, driverDOC takes into account that many truck drivers don’t necessarily have the skills or time to figure out how

to run logistics software — they need a Kolar said. simple, easy-to-use app that runs in the If technology solutions aren’t bringing background. in the small trucking companies that make While the industry marches toward up 97% of the industry, then there’s a good autonomous trucks, that isn’t a reality yet. chance there will be major industry conThe driver is still needed at every step, solidation, similar to what has happened along with a standardized logistics system. in the airline and rail industries, he said. Currently, much of Thang Nguyen, the technology is si- driverDOC head of product deloed, inconsistent or Services: trucking industry logistics and tracksign, works on the too difficult to use. technical side, building SaaS platform, aimed at companies with “For me, [while 20 or fewer trucks ing the app that the at] every company, Founded: 2019 driver uses and also my goal was to get Employees: 2 full time plus development the web-based platas many human be- contractors form for the back ings out of processes Goal: Scale the business by adding more office. as possible to make people, growing its customer base and strate“I oversee all of it efficient,” Kolar gically seeking more investors. that flow between said. “These [driv- Industry outlook: Digitizing paperwork is a multiple systems ers] will talk to you, necessary precursor to a future of autonoand how it comes will tell you about mous fleets transporting goods in the trucking into driverDOC and their frustrations and industry. how it’s going out as honestly, as someone Website: driverdoc.io well,” Nguyen said. that’s going to build Nguyen has product, you want users that tell you what worked for major companies in the finanto build. You don’t want to force something cial and transportation industries in Omaha that they’ll just abandon in a month or two. prior to driverDOC and got into the startup “There’s the need, there’s something sector around eight years ago when he that the industry wants like the data and launched a delivery startup that didn’t get documents, but really it boils down to psy- off the ground. chology of, how do you make that happen, That experience led to some consulting and it’s not just, throw something at them.” jobs in building products and designing Technology needs to provide value systems while working a full-time job, at Day One, he said, in order for it to get which eventually led him to driverDOC. adopted by drivers — it only takes about He said his path was a long detour five minutes to onboard a driver. to get to where he’s at — “it’s what my “And then as we get them into the plat- passions are and [I’m] finally able to do form, it’s hey, we can make this process go it full time.” away, can make this frustration go away Julia Kolar, CFO at driverDOC, is a just by connecting you with other people CPA with experience in industry and pubthrough the platform,” Kolar said. licly traded companies and SEC reporting. Another pain point that driverDOC ad- Currently, she is the executive director dresses is the paperwork required for small of corporate accounting for the North trucking companies to stay compliant — American division of Corporate Travel they don’t always have the back-office Management (CTM), formerly Travel and support needed if there is an audit. Transport. “If you think from the lens of, what do In the next year, driverDOC is looking you need to stay compliant, how do you to scale — adding employees, continuing need to capture documents so that you can to grow the customer base to a “tangido an audit — it really gives them a way ble level,” and securing an additional to be successful in their small business,” $350,000 with the right investors.

consumers additional service fees.” Additionally, he said their lower commissions support restaurants’ ability to employ more workers. At least one restaurant owner, O’Malley recalled, characterized the service as a “lifesaver,” benefiting their business and the community as a whole. A mutual connection introduced the

LoCo Omaha Phone: 531-201-2662 Founded: 2020 Services: locally-owned and locally-operated restaurant delivery Website: omahaloco.delivery

duo to Chomp.delivery’s founder, Jon Sewell this summer, which sparked considerable planning into the fall to sign up members in January for a February launch. Fortuitously, the Douglas County Commissioners were grappling in mid-December with how to use Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds to support the local restaurant sector while addressing unemployment among restaurant workers and food insecurity communitywide. “In its last meeting of 2020, the Douglas County Commissioners authorized $500,000 to fund a meal program through LoCo Omaha to feed 7,000 families,” Seaman said. “Adapting the delivery and ordering process to eliminate any fees to users (delivery, processing and taxes) proved to be a significant effort. But it was completed in a week.” Vouchers were distributed through existing food assistance programs. “LoCo quickly signed on 40 local, independent restaurant pilot members to the co-operative, ranging from Amigo’s to Avoli’s,” he said. “The program evolved to meet its commitment by delivering meals directly to food assistance programs to be distributed directly to consumers.” Seaman said many participating restaurants prepared meals that could feed six to 12 people. In all, the founders estimate that more than 30,000 individuals received meals through the program. Drivers see firsthand how grateful families are for their service. “In one particular case, a driver reported about a mother with three young children who was so grateful for the meals that she was moved to tears,” Seaman said. The drivers themselves may have suffered job losses through the pandemic, and leadership emphasized their “fair pay.” Short-term, O’Malley noted, its LoCo App is supporting the local food system as another consumer option for delivery and pickup, and a source of local business expansion for restauranters. “Over the long term, we want to help restaurants come out of the pandemic stronger than ever,” he said. O’Malley encourages readers to consider giving employees LoCo Omaha gift cards as a show of appreciation during the pandemic, and to remember the local restaurants behind the co-op model. “We offer local customer service and give Omahans the opportunity to support their favorite restaurants for a lower price,” he said.

• FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

UPCOMING

SECTIONS

IN THE MIDLANDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

FEBRUARY 26

ENGINEERING PROFESSION MARCH 5

AVIATION

MARKETING AGENCIES MARCH 12

HIGHER EDUCATION To advertise your company’s products or services in one of our upcoming sections, contact our Director of Advertising Karla Steele - karla@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

Briefs…

The Durham Museum appointed four community leaders to the board of directors. New board members include: Avner M. Applbaum, executive vice president and chief financial officer, Valmont Industries; Timothy R. Crockett, chief operating officer, HDR, Inc.; Beverly Kracher, Ph.D., Robert B. Daugherty endowed chair in business ethics & society, Creighton University; and Rodrigo Lopez, AmeriSphere Companies. In addition, four long-time board members completed their terms at the end of 2020 including: Art Burtscher, chairman (ret.), Westwood Holdings Group, Inc.; Harlan Falk, senior vice president (ret.), Great Western Bank; Rex Fisher, senior VP and director of corporate communications, HDR, Inc.; and Tommie Thompson, Mutual of Omaha (ret.). Swanson Russell received 15 awards at the 2021 Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Nebraska Paper Anvil Awards Gala. It accepted nine Awards of Excellence on behalf of the following clients: Propane Education & Research Council; SiteOne Landscape Supply; Cattlemen’s Beef Board; Profile Products; CBB; Koch Agronomic Services; and AMVAC. The agency also accepted six Awards of Merit for the following clients: Badlands; CBB; PERC; and Koch Agronomic Services. Clark & Enersen plans to share the company’s history throughout 2021 in honor of its 75 anniversary, utilizing its new website and social media channels. In 1946, Architect Kenneth B. Clark, FAIA, and Landscape Architect Lawrence A. Enersen, FAIA, FASLA, established Clark & Enersen in Lincoln. The firm has designed some of the most iconic projects in Lincoln including the North and East Stadium Expansions at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Memorial Stadium, Assurity Center, and the Sunken Gardens. The firm also has smaller satellite locations in the Kansas and Oregon. In 2020, Clark & Enersen was ranked 15th nationally among architecture/engineering firms in Building Design + Construction’s Giants 400 Report of the nation’s best science and technology facility design groups. The Public Relations Society of America Nebraska Chapter has named Mike Hogan its Media Partner of the Year. The Media Partner of the Year Award recognizes a media professional in Nebraska who has made a significant effort to foster connection and community in his or her market. Hogan joined the staff at KIOS, the local NPR station, as the local “Morning Edition” host in November 2017. In August of 2019, he was named the digital media coordinator and local host of the show All Things Considered. In moving to the afternoons, he brought with him the “Live & Local” feature that gives Omaha Metro people making a difference the chance to share their accomplishments and events. BonnaVilla, a division of Chief Industries, has been recognized as a Premier Builder in the 2020 Annual Builder Achievement Awards Program from 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty (2-10 HBW). The Builder Achievement Awards Program from 2-10 HBW acknowledges outstanding performance in the home building industry. Every year, 2-10 HBW selects builders who demonstrate skilled craftsmanship and construct inspired homes, while improving the quality of housing. Given annually, the Builder Achievement Awards Program recognizes

builders in three different tiers. BonnaVilla has been rewarded the Premier Builder Award, which recognizes perceptive builders who respond well and adapt to changing market conditions. Awerkamp, Goodnight, Schwaller and Nelson, P.C., an Omaha accounting and business consulting firm, founded in 1986, in order to provide personal service and knowledgeable advice regarding business and tax issues, has been acquired. With an abbreviated name, a new logo, Steve Drucker, CPA/ ABV, Brian Lodes, CPA and Brent Barnes, CPA will become shareholders in the firm. Thomas Schwaller, CPA, John Pribramsky, CPA and Daniel Gilg, CPA – CFP, will remain with the firm as principals. AGSN is located at 17007 Marcy St. TrustLayer, a collaborative risk management platform, has completed a $6.6 million seed round of financing. Abstract Ventures led the investment along with Propel Venture Partners, NFP Ventures, and Precursor Ventures. Twenty of the top 100 insurance agencies in the U.S., as well as their C-suite executives, also participated in the round. Some of these participating agencies include Holmes Murphy, Heffernan, M3, NFP and Graham Company. BrokerTech Ventures, a group made up of 13 of the most innovative insurance agencies in the U.S. and 11 top-tier insurance companies, is also a participant in the seed round. This represents BTV’s first investment in a cohort member of their accelerator. Fiserv, Inc. has been named as Fortune’s No. 8 “World’s Most Admired Company for 2021.” Fiserv, a $15.8 billion global leader in financial services and payments technology, is Omaha’s No. 5 employer. The finance and insurance industry contributed $10.6 billion to Greater Omaha’s GDP in 2019.

Education notes…

Tyson Foods, Inc. is launching Upward Pathways, an in-plant career development program that provides frontline team members with job skills training and workforce certifications at no cost. The program will be piloted at 10 of the company’s plant locations and is a partnership between Tyson, adult education providers and community colleges to establish a standardized promotional pathway for team members. Classes are currently available to workers at the company’s Council Bluffs caseready beef and pork facility and will be implemented at the remaining nine locations throughout 2021. Industry recognized workforce certifications focusing on safety training and other core curriculum will also be offered. Additional areas of focus include digital fluency and soft skills training, such as time management and leadership skills. On Aug. 10-11, 2020, a derecho swept across the Plains, producing widespread high, straight-line winds; extreme, torrential rain and hail; and an outbreak of weak tornadoes. The storm killed at least four and left behind significant damage in agricultural areas along a 750-mile path, causing an estimated $7.5 billion. Christine Wittich, assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, is studying community resilience — improving infrastructure to make it less susceptible to natural hazards and reducing the impact of damage to communities. Wittich has obtained a one-year, $45,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to focus on Continued on next page.

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 19, 2021 •

REGIONAL LANDSCAPES Continued from preceding page. the derecho’s aftermath. Joel Destino, Ph.D., assistant professor of chemistry at Creighton University, is among 25 outstanding teacher-scholars in chemistry, physics and astronomy named recipients of the $100,000 Research Corporation for Science Advancement’s 2021 Cottrell Scholar Awards. Destino’s award project, “Bottoms Up: Investigating the Growth and Glass-Forming Properties of Germania-Containing Colloids,” focuses on the advancement of fundamental chemistry to design novel, glass-forming particles that can be used to 3D print optical quality glasses. Destino plans to build on his ongoing pedagogical and research mentorship work through the development of remote-flexible or at-home laboratory experiments — course modules that integrate issues at the interface of social justice and science. Nebraska University Regent Paul Kenney of Amherst, representing District 6 on the University of Nebraska Board of Regents, assumed the role of chair of the board for 2021 after serving as vice chair in 2020. Regent Bob Phares of North Platte, representing District 7, was elected vice chair of the board. He will become chair in 2022 in accordance with board policy. Kenney is an agri-businessman, farmer and rancher whose operation has been in his family for more than 100 years. He is a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he studied agricultural economics. Phares is president and owner of Phares Financial Services Inc., a financial planning and services firm in North Platte. He was appointed to the Board of

Regents in 2006, elected in 2010 and served as chairman in 2010 and 2015.

Health care notes…

The Wellbeing Partners annual stair-climbing event, Trek Up the Tower, will be taking place virtually over a multiweek challenge period. Event runners cited best practice and ongoing COVID-19 safety concerns as a reason for the decision. The virtual format provides new opportunities and extended reach, including developing options for whole-family engagement and ensuring ways to make the event accessible for all abilities. The 2021 Trek Up the Tower theme “Wish You Were Here” is a nod to the de-centralized location of this year’s event. The event period will kick off on May 8, 2021, during which registrants can complete challenges related to familiar Tower distances, including the single-climb distance of 40 floors and the more rigorous Vertical Mile.

Activities of nonprofits…

Public voting is open in UScellular’s fourth annual Black History Month Art Contest with the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands. For the first time, voting is available online. In January, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands members created artwork in recognition of influential Black people from around the globe that include historical figures, world leaders, athletes and celebrities. The 10 finalists were chosen by Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands representatives based on creativity, quality, interpretation, clarity of theme and overall impression. Voting is open through Feb. 28. Anyone age 18 or older can vote once. The three submissions with the most votes will be announced in

March. Prizes include gift cards: $250 for first place, $150 for second place, and $100 for third place. The Micah House is inviting Omaha residents to support Girl Scout Troop #64224. All cookie sales will go to support the activities of Micah House Girl Scouts throughout the year. The troop is offering delivery or pick up options and orders can be placed online.

Mozart and Strauss on Feb. 26 at 7:30 p.m. Then, to close the evening, Lincoln’s Ann Chang will join the Lied Center stage for a performance of Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 20 in D Minor. Streaming tickets are available online.

Arts and events…

Thursday, Feb. 25 The Nonprofit Association of the Midlands has teamed up with the Human Resource Association of the Midlands to present a virtual webinar on “Shining the Spotlight on Workplace Technology Policies During These COVID-19 Times.” The webinar, running from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., will feature keynote speaker Gigi O’Hara from Kutak Rock. O’Hara will discuss key considerations, best practices, and legal guidance specific to technology during COVID-19 remote work, including the mechanics of an effective policy, security and confidentiality concerns, and assessing productivity and performance. Registration for the event is online. The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 2021 Annual Meeting virtually from 11:45 a.m. to 1 pm. The featured speaker will be Marc Randolph. Randolph is a veteran Silicon Valley entrepreneur, advisor and investor. He was the co-founder of Netflix, serving as their founding CEO, as the executive producer of their website. His career as an entrepreneur spans more than four decades, founding or co-founding more than a half dozen successful startups. Registration for the event is online.

Explore Opera from a different perspective with an interactive virtual workshop on Feb. 24 that is designed to spark participant’s creativity. Teaching Artist Kate Pomrenke will use music as the starting point to engage all five senses to connect with participants’ creative side. No previous art, music or opera experience required. This event is free and open to anyone. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required. Registration is available through Opera Omaha. The event starts at 7 p.m. Meet the Bemis Spring 2021 residents and learn about their artistic practices and influences in a virtual PechaKucha-style program on Feb. 25, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The eleven artists are participating in their Bemis residency virtually this year. Artists include Rehab El Sadek, Stephanie Germosen, Jonathan Herrera Soto, Molly Joyce, Cathy Lu, Yara Mekawei, Narcissister, Umico Niwa, Jezabeth Roca Gonzalez, Latrelle Maria Rostant, and Gioncarlo Valentine. The 2019–2021 Curator-in-Residence, Sylvie Fortin, will also present her current research and upcoming curatorial projects at Bemis. The Lincoln Symphony Orchestra is hosting guest conductor Delta David Gier for an evening of classic composters, such as

MEETINGS AND SEMINARS

Small Business Investments in Lincoln Lincoln Business Journal Pages

A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands Business Journal

Topics may include:

Small businesses as the lifeblood of the Capital City Businesses adapting to the pandemic, looking to the future Starting a business: some of the basics • Lincoln restaurants

Investment outlook • Likely investment growth out of pandemic Diversifying • Tips for new investors Retirement investment update

Issue Date: March 19 • Ad Deadline: March 11

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• FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

LINCOLN R E A L E S TAT E

Lincoln Business Journal Pages

A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands Business Journal

February 19, 2021

Residential real estate upbeat, while other segments echo uneven recovery by Michelle Leach

Not unlike other industries, the region’s real estate community has leaned on its centralized location and on its stable, plateaus-morethan-peaks, economy through downturns and recessions, geopolitical turmoil and ag crises alike. But how does all of that play out in an environment where no real precedent exists in recent memory? For Tyler Bebout, owner of Modern Real Estate, activity in his company’s space — residential properties and land in Lincoln and other communities throughout Nebraska — has been nothing short of “amazing.” “Amazing for sellEssay ers, buyers and Realtors,” he said. “The market is not going to change anytime soon. I feel we will slow a bit in the next two years, but not a drastic dip.” For Andrew Essay, vice president of mortgage lending at Cornhusker Bank, refinancing represents an active area in the lending universe. “The refinance activity has been very high since last April when rates started to go down,” he said. “The purchase activity was also very strong during 2020. We are currently near alltime lows on mortgage rates. So, it is still a great time to purchase a new home or refinance your existing mortgage.” Generally, such upbeat activity aligns with recent findings coming out of the Bureau of Business Research at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s College of Business. In its most recently available Nebraska

Tyler Bebout, owner of Modern Real Estate. Monthly Economic Indicators Report from “While not all building permits lead to home Jan. 29, Director Dr. Eric Thompson noted that construction, most do and new construction bea component of the real estate industry was one gins over the next few months,” Thompson said. of three Leading Economic Indicators on the “This makes building permits a critical indicator upswing in December. of future activity in the construction sector but “Building permits for single-family homes also of future activity in related components of and airline passenger counts both rose modestly the finance, real estate, and home furnishing during December,” he said. “There also was a sectors.” sharp drop in the value of the U.S. dollar. A deIn fact, Scott Sailors of NEDCO had highclining dollar improves the competitive position lighted projects that support the residential real of agricultural producers, manufacturers, and estate industry as among those that are propelother businesses that export.” ling the strong start of the year for the certified Business expectations (anticipated steady development company, which administers the unemployment amid anticipated sales decreas- U.S. Small Business Administration’s 504 Loan es) and manufacturing-hours worked were Program. on the decline. The aforementioned “modest” These financed projects ranged from paintbuilding permits increase amounted to .02%. ing companies and lawn care, to single-family

home construction and residential remodeling. The president indicated a diverse array of other types of projects (from transportation to health care) are supporting real estate transaction activity and new construction. “At this particular point in time, I would say that if you have somebody who is leasing or renting and is considering building, then this might be the time to make that decision to purchase,” he said, referencing persistent low interest rates. Sailors anecdotally referred to employers who had been on the fence for some time, and are now moving forward with building ownership, especially Thompson as the likes of vaccines drive more confidence among businesses and certainty. And, for those prospective sellers on the sidelines out there, Modern Real Estate’s Bebout assures the company is in a “very strong” position. “The main thing I want sellers to know is that you have to interview agents for the position to list and sell your home,” he said. “With over 80% of licensed agents in Nebraska selling less than 10 homes a year, it is crucial to get the right agent — one that provides value, experience and professionalism to get the homeowner every last dollar.” On the buyer’s side, Bebout described an “exhausting and frustrating” situation. “With low inventory, sellers are getting Continued on page 26.

Lincoln Business Journal Pages • Lincoln Real Estate •

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 19, 2021 •

Low interest rates help housing boom in Lincoln by Gabby Hellbusch

The recent housing boom has greatly impacted the Lincoln real estate market, which industry experts say is ever changing. Matt Murray, president of Murray Custom Homes, said the low mortgage interest rates and a strong economy seem to be the largest factors for homebuilders seeing the boom. “It has been crazy due to the fact that the pandemic has made it difficult to acquire certain supplies and hit specific timelines, yet the supply is higher than ever,” Murray said. When it comes Murray to building custom homes, Murray said lumber prices and supply shortages are the biggest issues on a day-to-day basis. “I wish we knew the answer to that,” Murray said. “From what I hear, it seems like 2021 will still be a strong year for homebuilders and real estate in Lincoln and beyond. Next year will largely be dependent upon the new president and how he handles the economy and COVID-19 vaccine rollout.” Matt Kinning, 2021 president for Home Builders Association of Lincoln, said the pandemic has thrown all kinds of curveballs to the industry this past year, yet

Matt Kirkland, Realtor and owner of The Realty Works Group of Giving Realty. Lincoln has remained a pretty safe place to to build that next home.” be, as it typically isn’t extremely affected Kinning said the short-term forecast is by national crises. still pretty good for the industry, but the “As interest rates became lower in the lumber crisis still looms. summertime, more people were ready to “In the past, we used to be able to get make changes,” Kinning said. “People that European lumber sent over, but we can’t were a little short on a down payment were get ships to bring the lumber at an affordable to make up a ton of ground this year able price right now,” Kinning said. “If because they didn’t take vacations or go interest rates tick up and lumber prices out to dinner and they were saving quite a continue to rise, we may be looking at a bit of money. This means they were able difficult future. However, if we can get

that balanced out, times will still be good.” Additionally, while building permits are up, Kinning said new construction for workforce housing and affordable housing isn’t getting touched right now. Matt Kirkland, Realtor/owner of The Realty Works Group of Giving Realty, said 2020, despite the pandemic, continued to be a hot market for real estate in Lincoln. “We had what I call the ‘perfect storm,’ near historic low supply of houses on the market, or inventory, which makes it a lucrative market for sellers,” Kirkland said. “Then combine that with near historic lows in mortgage rates, and that makes for excellent news for buyers, as they can lock in incredibly low rates on their purchases saving thousands on the life of their mortgage. Lincoln ended up with prices rising, and many multiple offer situations on homes for sale. I expect the same to continue into 2021.” According to Kirkland, more technology influx leads to many great options for sellers and buyers. “New companies are emerging both big and small,” Kirkland said. “But the biggest impact has got to be the low inventory of available homes for sale. This makes it tough on buyers and drives up prices.” Looking to 2021, Kirkland said he predicts mortgage rates will remain low to continue to stimulate the housing market. “We should still have a hot market for sellers in 2021 and buyers, if they can find a house, will lock in fantastic rates,” Kirkland said. “Just make sure you hire a Realtor to help you find the right house and guide you through this crazy market.”

• FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

• Lincoln Real Estate • Lincoln Business Journal Pages

Pandemic will have lasting impact Residential real estate upbeat, while on commercial and retail market other segments echo uneven recovery been affected, some worse than others, by David Kubicek COVID-19 has forced many changes to but all have adapted or modified their commercial and retail real estate, many of business model to work in this new world which are expected to continue long after we seem to now live in and some more successfully than others,” said the pandemic is behind us. Bennie McCombs, president of Fewer transactions were McCombs Commercial Realty. completed during the pandemic, The commercial real estate although there were lots of listmarket is in its most basic form ings and vacancies, according to a service-oriented industry, Susan Kirkpatrick, a commerchanging, adapting, and atcial Realtor with PRISM Real tempting to anticipate the needs Estate. Many lease agreements of its perceived customer base. were negotiated to help both “[The industry’s] approach lessor and lessee survive the will change with such things as tough times. a Zoom meeting becoming an “The pandemic also has afKirkpatrick everyday occurrence it seems fected the overall rent base on particular kinds of property,” Kirkpatrick instead of say office meetings but certain said. “The uptick has been in warehouse, things will never change,” McCombs said. so industrial hasn’t suffered as much as “For example, if [a retailer] is looking to expand and add new stores you can retail or office.” Continued on next page. “Every commercial discipline has

Continued from page 24. he indicated, with investing in technology. multiple offers and going above market value,” “So, when COVID came about, it was a he said. “With low interest rates and the cost of natural transition to take our seller listing aprenting rising, buyers are more eager to get into pointments and buyers walk-throughs virtually,” a position of building equity. Often he said, adding this has helped to times, we see the heartbreak and distinguish them from other firms doubt for buyers writing multiple that do business primarily in southpurchase agreements and getting east Nebraska. beat out time after time.” Echoing some of the aforemenThat being said, opportunities tioned market-wide sentiments, for affordable options on the lending Cornhusker Bank’s Essay boiled side are great. down the biggest challenge in the “Make sure to position yourself Lincoln market to: “inventory,” the with an agent who will get you lack of homes for sale. into homes at the drop of a hat,” “This can create a stressful situhe said, adding that buyers should ation for potential buyers,” he said. Sailors also consider those firms that have “They are having to make a very access to homes “before they are available to quick decision and also compete with multiple the general public.” offers on each property.” At least with regards to operations, Bebout On the flip side, Essay noted, this creates a said COVID-19 hasn’t played a “huge factor” in “great opportunity” for those who are looking what the firm does. They’ve prided themselves, to sell their homes. “They can get their home sold very fast and often times above asking price,” he added. Data from the Great Plains Regional MLS appear to bear this out. In its December 2020 Monthly Indicators Report for the Lincoln Area Region, it was noted that: “December is normally one of the slowest months of the year but strong buyer demand across most segments of the market, buoyed by near-record low interest rates, continue to drive a healthy sales pace in the face of a new wave of COVID-19 infections and a softening jobs market.” This confluence of factors resulted in a median closed price increase of 13.2% for existing homes and 11.3% for new construction. Similarly, days on the market decreased 50% for new construction and 51.7% for new construction and existing construction, respectively. It was further noted that the housing market of early 2021, with strong buyer demand and low rates, looks to continue trends seen in the second half of last year: low inventory, multiple offers on in-demand property and market segments. There was also a reference to the market waiting and hoping for a boost in new construction and a surge in sellers “to help provide more balance to the market.” Even more recently, data released recently noted that the median home price in Lincoln exceeded both the median home prices in the Omaha Area Region and the entire MLS — at $236,000 versus $225,000 and $222,500, respectively. Month prior, the figures were $230,000; $227,500; and $225,000, respectively. To further put this into perspective, this time last year, the median sales prices in Lincoln, Omaha, and the MLS were $195,000; $195,151; and $193,000. Alternately, commercial and office sentiments have largely been characterized by continued uncertainty as employers adjust to hybrid work styles that combine remote arrangements with traditional bricks and mortar spaces. Time will tell just how tenants collectively adjust when their lease is up for renewal. To that end, a JLL report released earlier this month noted that renewals accounted for 70% of all office leasing activity stateside, which represented a considerable uptick from pre-pandemic levels of around 29%. These echo trends that revolve around a “wait and see” approach as COVID-19 continues to mar strategy, and as comparatively small post-pandemic footprints support lackluster demand in the face of people working from home and other flexible work arrangements.

Lincoln Business Journal Pages • Lincoln Real Estate •

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 19, 2021 •

Pandemic will have lasting impact on commercial and retail market

Continued from preceding page. provide that potential user every conceivable bit of information on a particular parcel of land, including drone aerial images, but until a representative from the company makes a physical inspection of the site and either blesses the location or not you will not ever get that particular parcel presented to that company’s real estate committee for approval. Almost any new construction will still require a boots on the ground review Ball of the land prior to any approval.” “One of the bigger changes to daily life as a CRE broker were the limited in-person interactions with clients and other brokers,” said Mike Ball, vice president of sales and leasing at NAI FMA Lincoln. “A lot of our business is done by email and online but to fill the gap of not being able to meet in-person, we transitioned into more conference calls, Zoom meetings, and wider spread use of technology such as virtual property tours to get prospective clients through spaces.” Property managers overseeing office and retail properties have had to express to building owners and tenants what kind of precautions they were doing to address

COVID-19 in the building environment. They implemented more frequent scheduled cleanings of surfaces, moved towards touchless spaces and equipment, required masks, and set up protocols for accessing buildings and spaces safely to make people feel more comfortable in these spaces. “Even once restrictions are lifted, returning to physical spaces will be gradual,” Ball said. “Various industries and sectors will come back differently.

We foresee it to be three to five years for the CRE sectors to fully come out of the pandemic. Retail and the hospitality sector will most likely be hit the hardest while industrial space has been doing well due to the increase in online shopping.” Landlord and tenants have been in a state of flux since the pandemic started. In 2020, many businesses delayed making lease or space decisions but now as leases come to term or as employers bring staff

back into the office, decisions will need to be made. “Lease language will change to include more language to deal with pandemic-related occurrences,” Ball said. “Landlords will need to consider bigger reserves to help safeguard against another outbreak. How the commercial real estate market looks beyond the pandemic depends a lot on the government and what kind of environment and the type of economy they want it to be like.”

students online.” Brabec said as pandemic conditions have levelled off, the school canceled its expanded virtual classes, while limiting class size to teach in person, safely. But the widespread use of digital education offerings in the marketplace has the industry powers that be reconsidering teaching methodology. “The Nebraska Real Estate Commission is working on a proposed change to legislation that would allow the use of synchronous learning. Currently it’s only being allowed as temporary accommodation by the commission,” Brabec said. “We may look to offer synchronous learning in the future, but we find it is challenging on the instructor to focus their time and attention both online and in the classroom at the same time. Classroom is our preferred method.” Additional changes by the Nebraska

Real Estate Commission, including increasing the number of classroom hours needed before someone can sit for their real estate exam, is also expected to force schools to think creatively about content delivery. New required courses include six hours of professional development and 12 hours of real estate practices. Not all educational options have switched back to live instruction. Courses by the Nebraska Investment Finance Authority, for instance are content to wait out the pandemic a while longer before bringing students back to the classroom. “We offer a NIFA Specialist course for real estate agents; we offer this training to both new and existing real estate professionals,” said Jacki Young, chief homeownership officer with NIFA. The designation is good for two years and then you Continued on next page.

Real estate education greatly affected by COVID-19 challenges by Dwain Hebda

The COVID-19 pandemic had a marked impact on the mode and method of real estate primary and continuing education in the Midlands. But there are exceptions, such as Larabee School of Real Estate, which despite the challenges of the pandemic continues to offer a robust slate of classes for the beginner and experienced real estate professional alike. “We offer classes both in person and online for most of our courses,” said Leighun Brabec, director of education for the school. “Our in-person classes are our most popular and we find our students excel when they have the classroom environment to be able to ask questions and learn from each other. “During COVID, we did have a short period where we switched our courses to 100% virtual. These were done via Zoom with an instructor in our classroom and

• FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

• Lincoln Real Estate • Lincoln Business Journal Pages

Industrial space in high demand by Jasmine Heimgartner

While the retail and office side of commercial real estate have been on a decline, people looking for industrial space show no signs of slowing down. Unfortunately, similar to residential real estate, the biggest challenge is a lack of spaces available. “Landlords are hanging on to those good investments, especially warehouse space for manufacturing or storage,” said Ted Eschliman, Eschliman Commercial

Real Estate vice president sales and leasing. “It’s especially hard on auto space, as most landlords were already reluctant to allow the use in their property. The shortage of space out there is amplified by the cost of construction. Sometimes the only option is to build, but it is striking how much that costs. With a house, it is living a lifestyle. With industrial, it is a return on investment.” While inventory will continue to be a

challenge, new developments also aren’t erty is the highly unique needs of each easy to come by. With zoning issues, tenant,” Kubert said. “Some tenants need impact fees, adding sewer lines, building supporting office space while others need roads and other complexities, people look- wide open workspaces. Additional factors ing for the perfect industrial space may may include large sites, expanded power have to wait a few years. Although the sources or space for specialized equipment. Another challenge is finding northeast part of town is seeing contractors that can assist in more space become available, finishing or converting space to as well as west toward Denton meet the needs of each tenant. and east toward Waverly, finding Tenants should be prepared middle ground in the interim to pay for their owner interior may be necessary. For many, finish or may be able to work flex space is a growing solution, the interior finish costs into but it too often has an additional the overall lease rate with the price tag. property owner.” “We are seeing significant Along with having a clear demand for flex space, which picture of how much space is is space that can be converted actually needed, other checklist Eschliman to a variety of user-specific finishes and usually located in a multi- items include what features are needed, tenant complex,” said Thomas Kubert, such as plumbing and heating, docks and Kubert Appraisal Group owner. “Increased doors, proximity to highways, and parking. “It’s important to determine how construction costs mean that the cost of a user-specific interior finish tends to drive important access to I-80, Highway 77 or Highway 2 for regional, or if you only up the overall occupancy costs.” Whether a business or a hobbyist, need arterials for local,” Eschliman said. every facet of how the space will be used “If trucking is involved, you have to take needs to be considered before signing on getting trucks in and out into account. Even the dotted line. things like running water and drainage can Continued on next page. “A unique aspect of industrial prop-

Real estate education greatly affected by COVID-19 challenges

Continued from preceding page. need to renew by taking the course again.” “Previously, we did both online and in-person instruction. We have stopped doing our in-person trainings due to COVID. We plan to resume offering both in-person and online trainings once it becomes safe to do so.” Peggy Bohrer, director of membership & education with the Realtors Association of Lincoln, said that group’s educational programs have also migrated entirely online. “Some of our classes have not translated well to a virtual platform, but most have, she said. “We have not received any negative feedback and most learners have adapted to the current situation.

“We will move forward with live events once it is safe to do so. For the events that translate well to a blend of in-person and remote, we will continue to offer that option.” As for content, Bohrer said the pandemic has provided some new industry-related subject matter for real estate professionals to learn about, be it in person or online. “Indoor air quality has become a new topic for discussion by HVAC companies, especially those offering attachments that act to disinfect the indoor air,” she said. “Most of the new topics for discussion related to the Realtors Association has centered around how to safely show and sell properties during a pandemic, as well.”

Lincoln Business Journal Pages • Lincoln Real Estate •

Industrial space in demand

Continued on preceding page. be an issue. While most have floor drains, some smaller spaces don’t always have them. If you plan on having some type of showroom, more thought needs to go into food traffic or even considering a retail space for that part of the business.” Another similarity with residential is having the financial aspects covered. Establishing a partnership with a banker beforehand is essential for making the process smoother and often provides invaluable advice during the search. “The key steps for prospective buyers/ tenants are to know both the characteristics of the space needed, as well and the budget for the space needed,” Kubert said. “A commercial broker can guide prospective industrial users through the lease/buy decision as well as a detailed site selection process.” Once the perfect, or as close to perfect as possible, space is found, leasing comes with its own unique nuances. For first-time leasers, it can be surprising how much different commercial is from the residential side. “Most landlords don’t like to do less than two or three years and prefer longer terms,” Eschliman said. “When it comes to negotiating to get the space, it can affect the price if you are going to be there a while, especially if you are going to build inside. They may offer an allowance since it will improve the value of space. Longterm usually means better deals, but there may be a reason to keep it at short-term if you are going to be growing.”

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 19, 2021 •

Soaring lumber costs hammer homebuilders by Steve Brown

Homebuilders who are scrambling to meet a swell of buyer demand are hitting a wall. Prices of lumber and other wood products have soared in recent months, eating away at their profits and causing a further rise in new home prices. Trends Builders and industry analysts say that costs of some building materials have doubled and tripled from a year ago, thanks to increased demand and supply constraints. “Lumber is in flux so much right now it may cost you an extra $50,000 to build a house,” Dallas homebuilder Jeff Dworkin said. “A 2-by-10 framing piece that cost me five bucks a year ago is now costing me over $10.” Dworkin said the lumber framing on his latest house is costing him 80% more than a similar home he just sold. “We are trying to lock in our lumber prices for 30 to 60 days, and we are lucky to get that,” he said. “Typically this time of year lumber costs come down because the cold weather slows down construction. “But we have yet to see that.” Robert Dietz, top economist for the National Association of Home Builders, said the surge in lumber costs is affecting builders nationwide. “Pricing is back near the highs of mid-September, which at the time was the result of a 170% spike over the pricing in the spring,” Dietz said. “The industry has faced two surges in lumber pricing in 2020, includ-

ing one that persists here at the start of 2021. “The gains are adding about $16,000 to the price of a typical newly built home,” he said. “Materials are also taking longer to arrive at construction sites.” Dietz said the lumber price volatility is mostly being caused by pandemic-related supply chain disruptions. “The main issue is domestic lumber mills not answering the bell on demand,” said Phil Crone, executive officer of the Dallas Builders Association. “Many are running two shifts when the market dictates they run all three. “The lack of a long-term lumber deal with Canada curtails competition from abroad and allows producers to enjoy the profits of high prices at consumers’ expense,” Crone said. “One custom builder reported today that (wood panel) sheathing went from $7.20 a sheet early last year to $32 a sheet.” With home starts in many parts of the country at their highest level in more than a decade, it’s not just lumber prices that are hammering builders. Costs of all types of building materials, land and labor are rising in North Texas, said Ted Wilson, principal with Dallas-based housing analyst Residential Strategies. “It’s really not just lumber but the entire supply chain,” Wilson said. “Some of it is COVID-related — these plants have had to shut down temporally when there are outbreaks. “Appliances coming from out of the country have also been disrupted.” The increase in construction costs can put a pinch on builders who sell a house before

starting work and see costs soar during the build. “You want to try to lock in prices as much as you can, but it is hard,” Wilson said. “Some of the builders have a six- to nine-month backlog of orders. “They want to price up the houses to anticipate some price increases,” he said. “A lot of builders have definitely increased prices to improve their margins, but those profits have eroded because of building cost issues.” With a shortage of preowned houses on the market, thousands of buyers are turning to the new home market. North Texas home starts were up 33% in 2020, and the Dallas-Fort Worth area leads the country in single-family building. “We may be setting a record in 2021 with respect to starts because the sales backlogs are so huge,” Wilson said. “The construction capacity is as stretched as it has been in some time.” ©2021 The Dallas Morning News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

• FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal

Omaha’s J. Monae Beauty Supply gains quick traction as online shop Continued from page 1. continue to do more events like this throughout the year.” Fernandez, who also owns Testimony Beauty Bar at 3610 Dodge St., emphasized such types of outreach. “We all know when we look better, we feel better,” she said. “So, this is definitely something I see as being a need in our community.” With an active community on Facebook and Instagram, Fernandez indicated that more engagement is on the horizon in the form of pop-up shops and vendor events. This exposure builds upon demand illustrated, partly, by its best seller to date: headband wigs. “The wigs are beginner-friendly, great for protective styling, secure and stylish for everyday wear,” she said. “This item we’ve had to restock several times since we’ve launched. Our customers love it because it’s a convenient, affordable wig. And, since it’s human hair, the styling and coloring options are endless.” At this writing, its website features such

As a stylist, she shares such information, wigs in 24 body wave, jerry curl, straight and curly hair textures. These products share as well as styling techniques, with her clients. “I also make sure I’m available to do the an online space with numerous combs and brushes, crochet hair, hair oils, braiding, color same for my J. Monae Beauty Supply customers as well,” Fernandez said. “I’ve discussed and lightener, bonnets, scarves and durags hair care with custommerchandise. ers over the phone, Fernandez ac - J. Monae Beauty Supply social media, video knowledged that, since Founded: 2020 message — even when the store started off so Services: hair care products, tools and I’m out at the stores.” strongly with a “trendy extensions supplied by and for Black women She encourages item,” they’ve been and girls; guidance on hair care products and customers to contact challenged to get cus- styling techniques from an experienced stylist her with questions tomers to transition to Goals: Open a brick-and-mortar location by before applying unthe other items on the 2022. Shorter-term, launch of educational known chemicals to website. sessions, pop-up shops and vendor events. their crowning glories. “The customers Website: jmonaebeautysupply.com And she takes pride in who do explore the website love that we have almost everything responding to email queries within 24 hours. Fernandez also indicated local delivery available that they’ll find in their local supply and pickup options have resonated for convestore,” she said. “Also, it’s great that I’m knowledgeable about the beauty industry and nience sake. “[Customers] don’t have to wait to have can steer them to the perfect products to suit their items shipped out,” she said. their needs.”

Tech industry continuing to grow at rapid pace by Jasmine Heimgartner

Fast and furious may be a term associated with sleek cars and a movie franchise, but it is the essence of the technology sector. While big enhancement and jumps in technology may have slowed, things are only getting faster and better. “The big change is the pace of the change,” said Ken Marr, FNTS chief technology officer. “Companies have to be truly agile and innovative to survive. That is a big driver of the technology and technical environments. They have to adopt newer technologies and processes far faster than ever. Companies born in the cloud have amazing agility as opposed to some companies that have been around for decades and don’t have as much technical data or processes in place, which slows them down.” Two factors driving some of the tech are greater public cloud adoption, which remains extremely high and has a rapid growth rate. Many companies are adopting a hybrid strategy, allowing them to determine which applications should be public and private. COVID-19 was another major influence on how technology can completely change how companies operate. “Most businesses have now proven that (most of) their employees can be just as productive or more working remotely,” said Brent Brummer, Sojern vice president of business strategy and operations. “This presents opportunities for companies to optimize how they spend on things like business travel and office space. It also enables them to consider recruiting in new locations. This could be a powerful tool in helping companies achieve their diversity goals. This also presents opportunities for employees. The ability to work remotely helps people achieve the work-life balance they desire. It also allows them to live, and work remotely, in new cities, states and countries even temporarily or permanently.” As the new year unfolds, previous buzzwords — 5G, machine learning, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, edge computing, blockchain — will become more prevalent. “5G wireless is going to change the

way technology is provided,” Marr said. “It’s really going to speed up the wireless environment to the point where to leverage that you have to change the way your

Marr Korensky technologies work. Computing on the edge means that you are actually taking the computing process, which used to be done in data center, and putting it in the device. The more computing you can do on a smartphone or other device, the faster the experience is.” These technologies have the potential for massive change in various industries. “There has been a natural development of growing interest in ag technology, as well as unique technology around the medical space,” said Taylor Korensky, Appsky CEO. “Machine learning is an absolute highlight for 2021, especially around employee retention and COVID-19 and cancer research. Blockchain is another one of those mythical techs that people don’t fully understand. We will start to see more. Cryptocurrency is exploding right now. It is attracting a lot more people than it used to. There are a few startups in the Midwest related to trucking and logistics using that.” With more cloud-based offerings, and people in general using the internet more, security will continue to be a major focus. “There is a big push around cybersecurity,” said Emily Matis, AIM Code School director. “It is a big field both in private and public sectors. For all walks of government, there is a push to get people trained in security. People working from home has also changed dynamics. How do you keep employee data secure safe from home?” The rapid growth of technology has also

changed other ways businesses do business. “One thing we have seen is that marketing has changed, both physical and digital ad,” Korensky said. “As a repercussion of COVID-19, people have more money to invest since they are not attending trade shows. A lot are looking at digital marketing. We are seeing more increased focus on providing a good web experience for customers and end users, having a better website and web presence. Those are all things we have seeing a need to increase. It has forced us to adapt very quickly since a lot of frameworks being used are only a few years old.” While the growth may be an exciting time for developers and end users, maintaining a skilled workforce will continue to be a challenge. “Tech always grows, and it even has through pandemic,” Matis said. “It is a growing and booming field, but there are barriers when it comes to hiring. There are often expectations that you have a certain amount of experience and education. Our big trend in 2021 is to help more people get into tech. Because we are small, we can create new curriculum based on what we are hearing from the industry.”

The current environment supports such options. “Many people aren’t ready to return to in-person shopping,” she added. “So, being able to order your items and have them available on your doorstep is a benefit for most.” In fact, these delivery and pick-up services will remain a permanent fixture of the business even after the pandemic is in the rearview, according to Fernandez. And, although J. Monae had products to suit “just about anybody,” she said, its current customer base is the working woman, the woman of color, the busy mom and the fitness enthusiast. “We’d love to expand our customer base this year and get everyone to come experience ‘the Monae way,’” she said. “We spend too much money on our beauty essentials to continue to be treated poorly.” In fact, it was these experiences that took ownership of a beauty supply store from an idea that had long been at the back of Fernandez’s mind to a feasible reality. “It wasn’t until I really sat down and researched the industry more, that I realized that my dream to own a beauty supply was attainable,” she said. “Our current state of crisis is what gave me that extra push I needed.” Hair and discriminatory practices in business collided last year in the unicameral when Omaha Sen. Michaela Cavanaugh introduced a bill (LB1060) to add specific hair textures and protective styles (such as braids, twists and locs) to the definition of race, in turn, offering protection from discrimination in the likes of hiring or promotions under the Nebraska Fair Employment Practice Act. A search for related bans on such discriminatory practices at various stages in the law-making process produces millions of results, and news coverage related to bills in states from coast-to-coast — New Mexico to Connecticut, Washington to Ohio. Fernandez doesn’t take her role as a pioneering Black-owned business lightly; in the Oct. 30 press release announcing the store’s launch, she noted: “It’s important to have the option to support people who look like you.” The time is also now, she indicated, to “get creative” — pivoting operations as an entrepreneur or taking the leap like Fernandez did. “To anyone that’s on the fence about starting a business during this pandemic, just do it,” she said. “As long as you have a solid business plan and faith, you can’t lose.”

US home prices rocketed higher in fourth quarter by Steve Brown

U.S. home prices were up by 14.9% year-over-year in the final months of 2020, according to the latest survey by the National Association of Realtors. “The fourth quarter of 2020 presented Real Estate circumstances ripe for home price increases,” Realtors chief economist Lawrence Yun said in the report. “Mortgage rates reached record lows, thereby driving up the demand. “At the same time, inventory levels also reached record lows, leading to grim inventory conditions of insufficient supply in the fourth quarter.” More than half of the 161 major metro areas the Realtors track each quarter saw double-digit percentage home price increases. The greatest percentage price gains

in the nation were in Bridgeport, Connecticut (39.2%); Pittsfield, Massachusetts (32.2%); Atlantic City, New Jersey (30.0%) and Naples, Florida (29.9%). While near record low mortgage rates are driving a surge in home purchases, price jumps are putting the pinch on buyers. “The average, working family is struggling to contend with home prices that are rising much faster than income,” Yun said. “This sidelines a consumer from becoming an actual buyer, causing them to miss out on accumulating wealth from homeownership.” None of the U.S. metro areas that the Realtors surveyed saw a decline in home prices in the fourth quarter. ©2021 The Dallas Morning News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 19, 2021 •

In the Spotlight Paid Content

SENIOR SERVICES

BANKING

Promoted

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Mandi Dilling Learning & Development Director Home Instead, Inc.

Home Instead, Inc. is pleased to announce the promotion of Mandi Dilling to Learning & Development Director. In this role, she’ll lead the team responsible for delivering learning experiences focused on operational excellence. As a member of the Leadership Team, she’s responsible for implementation and execution of strategy. Mandi joined Home Instead in 2019 as Learning & Development Strategy Manager.

The Home Instead network provides personalized care, support and education to help enhance the lives of aging adults and their families. Today, this network is the world’s leading provider of inhome care services for seniors, with over 1,100 independently owned and operated franchises that annually provide more than 80 million hours of care throughout the United States and 12 other countries.

Keli Wragge Chief Operations Officer Cobalt Credit Union

Cobalt Credit Union is pleased to announce the appointment of Keli Wragge to the role of chief operations officer. Wragge will lead all retail banking operations, including the credit union’s 24 branch locations, contact center and video and digital banking channels. Wragge has more than 21 years of experience in the banking industry, the last 12 at Cobalt. During her tenure, she has served in various roles, including branch manager and vice president of operations. Wragge

received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from Wayne State College, and is pursuing a Master of Arts degree in Business and Professional Communication from Bellevue University. Additionally, she has completed coursework through Lending Solutions Inc. and the University of Lending. Wragge currently serves on the SAC Foundation board of directors.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

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Hired

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Jodi Longmeyer Ike It Award Borsheims

Longmeyer, Sr. Employment and Benefit Specialist at Borsheims, was presented the company’s Ike It Award after being nominated and selected by her co-workers. Jodi establishes the procedures that guide Borsheims’ recruiting efforts, oversees the luxury jeweler’s employment benefits and is responsible for growing the company’s service-oriented culture. Borsheims’ CEO and President, Karen Goracke, applauded Jodi’s

commitment and contributions over the past 13 years. “Jodi exemplifies the core values and spirit of Borsheims. Her compassion and dedication to improving our employee experience, combined with her enthusiasm and positivity, represent what the Ike It Award stands for.” The Ike It Award is named for long-time Borsheims owner Ike Friedman, who passed away in 1991. The award is a tribute to Ike’s legacy, honoring someone who demonstrates exceptional customer service, a willingness to help, and an enthusiasm for Borsheims.

Cara Kirsch Area Vice President, Health and Welfare Consulting

innovate in the employer sponsored healthcare coverage market.

Gallagher

Gallagher is pleased to announce Cara Kirsch as its new Area Vice President for its Health and Welfare Consulting Practice

in Nebraska. Her passion is helping employers of all sizes build employee benefit plans while adhering to the company’s bottom line. In her new role, Kirsch will continue to find ways to

FINANCIAL SERVICES Hired

ss Journal Midlands Busine

Sean Lynch Chief Investment Officer Harrison Financial Services

Harrison Financial Services is pleased to announce Sean Lynch, CFA, has joined our team as the Chief Investment Officer! In his role, Sean is responsible for developing global investment strategies and oversees the investment committee at HFS Investments. He is also responsible for the creation and implementation of investment models and

strategies to be used in client accounts. Prior to joining Harrison Financial Services, Sean spent 20+ years at Wells Fargo where he was Managing Director of equity strategies and Co-head of Global equity strategy. He has spent over 30 years in the investment management and research business and traveled extensively internationally — from Asia to South America to Europe — to gather firsthand knowledge and information about global economies and markets. Throughout his career, Sean has written extensively about global capital markets and the implications on client portfolios, appearing in Bloomberg The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and on CNBC. He is a CFA Charterholder and is past president of the CFA Society of Nebraska.

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In the Spotlight

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• FEBRUARY 19, 2021 • Midlands Business Journal