Midlands Business Journal February 7, 2020 Vol. 46 No. 6 issue

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 7, 2020 •

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Technology A section prepared by the staff of the midlands business journal • FEBRUARY 7, 2020

Likes of hybrid multicloud, phishing scams represent evolving technologies

by Michelle Leach

Sophisticated phishing emails masked as legitimate legal documents and hybrid cloud-based solutions embody how technology can be leveraged for malevolent and benevolent purposes, hindering or helping one’s enterprise.

“In the past, phishing emails would come in and the typical email would consist of an alleged vendor claiming that a payment failed or an account was locked out with links allegedly directing the user to resolve the issue,” said Scantron Technology Solutions Omaha Senior Security Engineer Arturo Romero. “We all know now those links lead to a spoofed site where they would steal your credentials. Now, they have changed those emails and tactics in general.

“They also now send attachments that you can download that may give them direct access to your system, malware that keeps your system captive, or another application that tracks all your keystrokes,” he said.

“They can also pretend to be official documents, pertainRomero ing to legal cases that scare you into going to their sites or downloading their attachments.”

Still other times they pretend to be official Microsoft application emails, asking to share documentation with the user.

“As always, as technology changes, so do the delivery methods and tactics of adversaries,” he said.

Romero said one should resist the temptation to think once threats, assets and vulnerabilities are analyzed, that the business will never have to do that again.

“Quite the contrary — it is a constant cycle as the organization’s operations continue to grow and mature,” he said. “So do those threats, assets and vulnerabilities.”

And, the biggest vulnerability of all, Romero said, continues to be the perception that a business isn’t a “big enough” target to worry about any threat.

“And that is if they are compliant with regulatory assessments, they are secure,” he said of further pitfalls to avoid.

Evolving Solutions Vice President of Sales, Services and Marketing Bo Gebbie spoke to the opportunities and challenges that have opened up for organizations of all sizes, courtesy of cloud computing.

“What many said was a fad has grown into a multibillion-dollar technology shift that has upended how technologists perform their work, how organizations operate and innovate, and how companies of all sizes are challenging the status quo,” he said. “Because it offers many deployment choices, the cloud has evolved to become an essential tool for businesses. Cloud configurations can be combined in many ways to suit an enterprise’s needs.”

Key types of deployments include private, public and hybrid cloud, and the hybrid multicloud.

“As cloud technologies have matured and evolved, many organizations have opted to take a hybrid multicloud approach,” Gebbie said. “Flexibility, investment protection and fluid movement of applications and data are the hallmarks of this approach. Over the Wade past several years, we have seen clients in Omaha and throughout the region implement strategies around a hybrid multicloud methodology.”

He said the urgent nature to make this change is driven by both IT and C-suite.

“Hybrid multicloud solutions help organizations deploy applications where they make the most sense for their organization, move more quickly to change and be flexible to the ever-changing needs of the business,” he said; citing an IBM Institute for Business (IBV) study: “Currently, 85% of companies use a multicloud environment … IBV forecasts that, in three years, 98% of enterprises will use hybrid multiclouds.”

Flexibility and offerings in the market, Gebbie noted, make it easier than ever to find a technology solution that aligns with an organization’s business objectives.

“We are fortunate to be an adviser that helps business clients across industries reach their goals or tackle their biggest Continued on next page.

Reaanddit

Bo Gebbie, vice president at Evolving Solutions in Omaha.

Reap!

Technology — inside FEBRUARY 7, 2020

THE BUSINESS NEWSPAPER OF GREATER OMAHA, LINCOLN AND COUNCIL BLUFFS

THIS WEEK 'S ISSUE:

$2.00

VOL. 46 NO. 6

Security Equipment Inc. grows market share with larger accounts

by Richard D. Brown

Reliant Studios tells nonprofits’ stories through film.

– Page 2

40 er d Un 40 Harley works to bring opportunity, diversity to the workplace at Greater Omaha Chamber. – Page 4

nd sam l e t is Ho our T

Omaha tourism on the rise in 2020.

– Page 25

Security Equipment Inc., a provider of commercial and residential security solutions, is growing both its market share in Omaha, Lincoln, Kansas City and Des Moines markets en route to hitting $30 million in annual revenues. Revenues were up 15% last year, partially reflecting the Omaha headquartered firm’s purchase of a former competitor in central Iowa.

“We’re the largest business of our type in Nebraska and now we’re among the top tier in Des Moines,” said Chief Operating Officer Matt Vellek. “Our branch in Kansas City continues to develop and companywide we’re actively looking for additional acquisition opportunities.”

SEi, founded in Omaha in 1969, purchased Strauss Security Solutions last year — a 92-year-old Des Moines firm that had been family-owned for three decades.

“Growth organically is what we plan for but we’re going to be continually looking at acquisition opportunities, and especially those that can expand our efforts to acquire Continued on page 10.

Chief Operating Officer Matt Vellek … The firm has expanded geographically and has added new tech for enhanced security.

(Photo by MBJ / Becky McCarville)

Per user licensing model helps to fuel 40% annual growth for H4 Technology

by Michelle Leach

Leveraging its per user fee pricing model, H4 Technology has secured year-to-year growth of 40% since entering the product space five years ago, as its health care data solutions resonates with organizations of varied sizes in an accountable care and value-based care environment.

“What we’ve found with this per user and modular approach is that organizations can implement and

pick and choose projects to provide immediate [return on investment] to the organization, and they’re more apt to come on board and then evolve into other data and add more data down the road,” said Chief Sales and Marketing Officer and co-founder Craig Christenson. “We’ve made it easier to sell because it’s not a huge ticket item. We could fit into their operational budget more effectively, Continued on page 12.

Owner Holly Wiest … Sharing a passion for mindful, healthy eating with a dash of fun.

Holly’s Healthy Holes balances fun, flavor and nutritious treats

by Becky McCarville

Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, Co-founder Craig Christenson … With five of its seven years in the products space, the firm has secured double-digit year-over-year growth among users in new value-based care space.

A passion for food and fitness spurred Holly Wiest to start Holly’s Healthy Holes, an e-commerce baking company that delivers gluten-free protein donuts made with minimal ingredients.

What started as a hobby — sharing healthy baked goods with her clients while working as a personal trainer at a fitness

club — has turned into a fulltime business with commercial kitchen space and customer pickup spot at 2215 Leavenworth St., completed the summer of 2019.

Founded in 2018, the company has grown organically through its authentic social media presence and word of mouth.

December was the company’s biggest month to date, with 5,358 Continued on page 11.

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• FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • Midlands Business Journal

Reliant Studios tells nonprofits’ stories through film

by David Kubicek

A couple of years ago, film production company Reliant Studios launched an online film school for nonprofit organizations that want to start doing some or all of their own in-house videos. CEO Mike Sukraw’s goal is to expand the program.

“We’re looking for a chief operating officer to help take that to the next level,” he said.

The firm has blossomed since its founding in 2004. Starting with two owner/ operators in a small room at Turbine Flats in Lincoln, it moved to a larger built-out space, and finally to its current suite, which is one of the largest in the building. Today the company has nine employees and works with an extensive list of subcontractors, including grips, gaffers, and outside directors who can be brought in to work on a film.

Sukraw and Josh Brokering founded the firm when Sukraw was in the business program at University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Brokering was in the film program.

Their first big job was a recruitment project for UNL’s College of Engineering, which Sukraw used as a sample to land more work.

Seven years ago Brokering got married and left the firm to be a stay at home dad, although he still works freelance with Reliant. About that time, Kristin Sukraw — Mike’s wife and Reliant’s current president — joined the firm.

“We started speaking at a lot of nonprofit conferences,” Sukraw said. “Now we

industry.

“I love how much passion and effort goes into producing a movie, a TV show, and even a commercial,” he said.

In the beginning, everyone working with the firm wore many hats — pitching in to do the shooting, editing and other jobs — but now the company has a dedicated producer, director, and editors.

Reliant Studios Phone: 402-467-1500 Address: 2124 Y St., Ste. 129, Lincoln 68503 Service: produces films, primarily for nonprofit organizations Founded: 2004 Employees: 9 Goal: To grow its online film school.

Website: https://www.reliantstudios.com

CEO Mike Sukraw … Aiming to share stories in a meaningful way with film. work with various types of organizations, stories in a meaningful way. The Sukraws but most of our work is with nonprofits, speak at conferences related to nonprofits telling their stories to move donors to par- and higher education, which is the firm’s ticipate through giving or volunteering.” biggest marketing channel.

Kristin Sukraw, who has a master’s About half of the firm’s clients are in degree in counseling, brought in her coun- Nebraska, but as the company has grown, seling background and techniques, which more and more of them are out of state. help to empower people to share their Sukraw is enamored with the movie

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“We’re working to hire people really specialized in one thing, which I think enables us to do things at another level,” Sukraw said. “One of the challenges of running a film production company in the Midwest is that it can be hard to find people when we’re hiring. About half of our team has lived and worked in LA at some point because people graduate from film school then move to LA where the film industry is.”

The firm looks for individuals who have a high degree of empathy.

“We’ve worked hard to create a culture of people who are really dedicated to caring for our customers and the people we put on camera,” Sukraw said. “Many people we put on camera might have a difficult story they need to share. Almost all of our team has empathy at some level.”

Mike and Kristin Sukraw are parents to a 1-year-old girl they adopted as an infant last January. The child was born with a condition that left her in the neonatal intensive care unit for 30 days.

Midlands Business Journal Established in 1975

Founded by Robert Hoig

ADMINISTRATION VP OF OPERATIONS, Andrea “Andee” Hoig

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

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The Midlands Business Journal (ISSN 0194-4525) is published weekly plus one by MBJ Inc. and is available for $2.00 per individual copy or $75 per year. Editorial offices are 1324 S. 119th St., Omaha, NE 68144. Periodical postage paid at Omaha NE POSTMASTER; Send address changes to Midlands Business Journal, 1324 S. 119th St., Omaha, NE 68144. All submissions to the Midlands Business Journal become the property of the Midlands Business Journal and will not be returned.

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Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 7, 2020 •

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• FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • Midlands Business Journal

Harley works to bring opportunity, diversity to the workplace at Greater Omaha Chamber

by Dwain Hebda

With everything that’s been said about bringing diversity and opportunity to the workplace in recent years, it might seem surprising that Bianca Harley’s job at the Greater Omaha Chamber has only been around for 18 months.

But according to the Alabama native and University of Nebraska-Lincoln grad, that’s actually much more progressive than many communities.

“I don’t know that chambers really have operated in this space before. Actually, I think chambers are pretty new to the world of diversity and inclusion,” she said. “This is kind of an epiphany that I think a lot of the chambers are having with their talent.

And we’re not unique in that.

“We have these conversations about brain drain or lack of diversity within our organization or our ability to retain diverse talent. I don’t think that’s necessarily, ‘Why did we take so long?’ I don’t think Omaha is really even behind the curve on that. In some instances, we’re thought leaders and have been called quite a bit to talk about the work that we are doing and

2019

Proud Sponsors of the 2019

Bianca Harley, director, community diversity and inclusion at the Greater Omaha Chamber … Leading the charge in implementing diversity initiatives for employers. even about this particular role.”

CODE (Coalition for Opportunity, Diversity Harley comes to the role of director, com- and Equity), which channelizes the broad topic munity diversity and inclusion with the cham- of diversity into various business applications ber from University of Nebraska at Omaha pursuant to positive change. where she was director of career development “We approach this initiative as an umbrella; for the College of Business Administration. underneath that, I always say it’s the arch and Her primary calling card is the oversight of pillars and that is our workplace diversity and inclusion and community diversity and inclusion,” she said. “Under workplace you could 40 Under 40: see entrepreneurship, but I think where we have the most reach right now is working with the organizations that are currently up and running.

“Our starting point was to develop what we call the Employer Coalition for CODE and

that is working with companies who say they’re going to make this pledge to make diversity and inclusion a priority within their organization.

The second piece is that they hire or appoint someone who does this work. Then the third piece is the assessment.”

Harley said one of the hardest things for companies to get their arms around is how to make matters of diversity and inclusion less of a box to be checked off a list and more an ongoing aspect of daily operations and company culture.

“This isn’t something that’s kind of on the side; this infiltrates every single aspect of how they do business from your hiring practices to your benefits and your policies, to how you interact with your customers and your marketing,” she said. “Every single aspect of how you do business, diversity and inclusion should be a priority or a filter at least in which you use your strategy.”

Harley said even though the Chamber’s CODE is relatively new, the rate at which companies and community organizations are embracing the concept of diversity in the workplace is encouraging.

“I haven’t really interacted with any organization that is against the work that we’re doing,” she said. “If anything, it is this idea of perhaps we’re not where we want to be right now or looking at their history and saying we haven’t always done things right or maybe haven’t truly done right by the community in which we serve.

“We have a little over 43 companies that are signed on to the employer coalition right now; I think we can do better than that, but it’s also about communicating what CODE is and providing the opportunity for other organizations to be involved.”

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 7, 2020 •

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Technology A section prepared by the staff of the midlands business journal • FEBRUARY 7, 2020

Likes of hybrid multicloud, phishing scams represent evolving technologies

by Michelle Leach

Sophisticated phishing emails masked as legitimate legal documents and hybrid cloud-based solutions embody how technology can be leveraged for malevolent and benevolent purposes, hindering or helping one’s enterprise.

“In the past, phishing emails would come in and the typical email would consist of an alleged vendor claiming that a payment failed or an account was locked out with links allegedly directing the user to resolve the issue,” said Scantron Technology Solutions Omaha Senior Security Engineer Arturo Romero. “We all know now those links lead to a spoofed site where they would steal your credentials. Now, they have changed those emails and tactics in general.

“They also now send attachments that you can download that may give them direct access to your system, malware that keeps your system captive, or another application that tracks all your keystrokes,” he said.

“They can also pretend to be official documents, pertainRomero ing to legal cases that scare you into going to their sites or downloading their attachments.”

Still other times they pretend to be official Microsoft application emails, asking to share documentation with the user.

“As always, as technology changes, so do the delivery methods and tactics of adversaries,” he said.

Romero said one should resist the temptation to think once threats, assets and vulnerabilities are analyzed, that the business will never have to do that again.

“Quite the contrary — it is a constant cycle as the organization’s operations continue to grow and mature,” he said. “So do those threats, assets and vulnerabilities.”

And, the biggest vulnerability of all, Romero said, continues to be the perception that a business isn’t a “big enough” target to worry about any threat.

“And that is if they are compliant with regulatory assessments, they are secure,” he said of further pitfalls to avoid.

Evolving Solutions Vice President of Sales, Services and Marketing Bo Gebbie spoke to the opportunities and challenges that have opened up for organizations of all sizes, courtesy of cloud computing.

“What many said was a fad has grown into a multibillion-dollar technology shift that has upended how technologists perform their work, how organizations operate and innovate, and how companies of all sizes are challenging the status quo,” he said. “Because it offers many deployment choices, the cloud has evolved to become an essential tool for businesses. Cloud configurations can be combined in many ways to suit an enterprise’s needs.”

Key types of deployments include private, public and hybrid cloud, and the hybrid multicloud.

“As cloud technologies have matured and evolved, many organizations have opted to take a hybrid multicloud approach,” Gebbie said. “Flexibility, investment protection and fluid movement of applications and data are the hallmarks of this approach. Over the Wade past several years, we have seen clients in Omaha and throughout the region implement strategies around a hybrid multicloud methodology.”

He said the urgent nature to make this change is driven by both IT and C-suite.

“Hybrid multicloud solutions help organizations deploy applications where they make the most sense for their organization, move more quickly to change and be flexible to the ever-changing needs of the business,” he said; citing an IBM Institute for Business (IBV) study: “Currently, 85% of companies use a multicloud environment … IBV forecasts that, in three years, 98% of enterprises will use hybrid multiclouds.”

Flexibility and offerings in the market, Gebbie noted, make it easier than ever to find a technology solution that aligns with an organization’s business objectives.

“We are fortunate to be an adviser that helps business clients across industries reach their goals or tackle their biggest Continued on next page.

Bo Gebbie, vice president at Evolving Solutions in Omaha.

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• FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • Midlands Business Journal

• Technology

A company’s website is about connecting with its customers

Andrew Boehm, owner and brand strategist at Elevated SEO & Web Design.

by David Kubicek focusing on locale, personal attention, and A business website is about connecting ultimately convincing users to ‘come see prospective customers to a firm’s services us’,” Garren said. “An e-commerce weband putting them in touch with someone who site is working to keep people involved in can help them with their needs in the website experience and give a timely manner. them fast and easy ways to find “Your website should immeproducts, learn about products, diately tell a visitor what you do, compare them, save them for who you do it for, and why you do later, and buy them. So much it, and it should show them how to of an e-commerce site is about contact you,” said Raymond Gardirecting the users to what they ren, managing partner of Midwest want based on their choices.”

Cloud Computing.

A website should have a home A website can sell products page with a call to action and online (e-commerce), be only an contact information, according advertisement for the company to Andrew Boehm, owner of EleGarren (brochure), or both. The brochure vated SEO & Web Design. Other website should focus on what the users want common page names are: about us, services, or need and how to connect them with some- gallery, and contact us. one who can help them get it.

“Organize your content ahead of time so “A brick-and-mortar store should be you can give your web developer the best information about you and your company,” Boehm said.

Cameron Ramaekers, owner of Open Caret, said a website should be easy to Continued on next page.

Evolving technologies

Continued from preceding page. problems,” said Ryan Wade, software solution manager with Lutz Tech. “These problems typically revolve around similar themes of ‘we want to run a smarter business’ or ‘we need to be more efficient.’ The specific engagements vary but, in general, running leaner businesses involves improving systems, technology and processes while running smarter businesses requires leveraging data.”

More business applications, Wade said, are using web-based systems for system integration purposes.

“This provides more options to automate workflows without large systems replacements,” he said. “That said, many businesses are trying to decide whether to convert existing systems to new cloudbased applications or to remain with legacy systems.”

In most cases, Wade said the answer is not if they should but rather when they need to convert.

“More businesses are using data analytics platforms such as Microsoft PowerBI, Domo and Tableau to harness data that used to be trapped in spreadsheets or systems,” he added. “Unfortunately, many businesses still have highly valued employees spending time exporting and merging data for basic reporting.”

Companies must be committed to change to take advantage of the benefits associated with these solutions.

“Change is painful and requires an investment of time, energy and money,” he said. “There is a return on investment that should be analyzed prior to taking on these initiatives.”

Often, Wade said businesses need to run “experiments” to determine potential value and costs before making wide-scale changes. And, as most (if not all) businesses rely on technologies and software, they need to be strategic about leveraging tech as an asset versus an expense.

Technology •

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 7, 2020 •

7

Digital engagement can benefit businesses on various levels

by Gabby Christenen

tomer research and insights derived By adapting to new digital through fun quizzes, contests and processes, experts say businesses social engagement. can not only keep up with their “Small businesses that adopt competition, but perhaps outpace digital processes see reductions in it digitally. operational costs, as transaction According to Karie Barrett, costs are reduced through shortened creative development director at turnaround and completion times, QAT Global, some examples of postal and printing costs, customer effective digital processes might service is improved, products and include online reservations and services are commoditized, and appointments, e-commerce stores they gain the ability to scale operBarrett that expand their potential cusations quickly without increasing tomer base internationally, improved internal staffing or space requirements,” Barrett said. collaboration and sharing, better employee “The collection of online payments, signing onboarding and ongoing training and cusContinued on next page.

Company’s website

Continued from preceding page. navigate, contain all of the firm’s contact information, a little history, and an explanation of products or services. Testimonials, case studies, or customer stories help give the business credibility.

“There’s a lot more to consider Ramaekers when selling products online because you must think about

security and logistics — what the process of placing orders looks like from the time customers first interact with the site to the time they receive their products,” Ramaekers said.

Google and the other search engines don’t specifically tell what it takes for a website to rank in the top pages, and the rules often change. Google is looking at site performance and downgrades sites that perform poorly or aren’t mobile friendly.

“Be wary of any company that guarantees they can get you on the front page of Google for a certain fee,” Ramaekers said.

“No one knows for sure Google’s algorithm for listing their results.”

Garren said search engine optimiza-

Jody Stier, sales engineer at TEAM Software. tion (SEO) basics like content, structure, tags, sitemaps, keywords, metadata have to be in place and well-structured, but the businesses that are winning are connecting reviews, referrals, and search engine results together.

“The best thing a person can do is create meaningful content, invest in social media, and constantly maintain the connections,” he said.

Use relevant keywords and content — don’t load the website with buzzwords just for the sake of keywords. Using the company name in the URL, anything that indicates what the firm does, or the firm’s location will help search engines position the business in a geographic location.

(Story at left)

“Content is king,” Ramaekers said. “It’s always better to build a website around that content and make it a good experience rather than choose a pretty looking design and fill it with your content. Find a designer who respects that and is willing to work on the strategy and content piece before even talking about design.”

Delegating tasks to the right people is also key.

“Build a website that matches your business and tells your story correctly,” Garren said. “Hire a social media person and a web person to keep the site updated — do not accept a website that requires you to call a developer to update it — and make sure it’s mobile.”

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• FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • Midlands Business Journal

Digital engagement

• Technology

automatically,” Stier said. “Automating these repetitive business processes frees up humans for tasks that are less mundane and valuable.

Continued from preceding page. contracts with an e-signature, and being able The biggest benefit is the potential to improve to deliver products and services electronically profitability through that added efficiency and is a game-changer for business consultants, better use of time and resources.” lawyers, personal trainers, technical support Essentially, she said business owners need specialists, mental health professionals and to map out their operational processes and others in service businesses.” educate themselves on where the gaps are Barrett said failing to focus on digital en- and what can be more streamlined. Then, they gagement can be particularly devastating for should determine whether their organization small businesses when it comes to marketing is ready to work smarter. efforts, as well as delivering an exceptional “Companies should then identify key playcustomer experience. ers and make them aware of their critical role “Engaging with customers in the process, as well as help build digitally improves their ability to momentum for the implementation collect data and scale their marand adoption,” Stier said. “Lastly, keting messaging quickly and at train employees and always have a relatively low cost,” she said. a human failover option for all “Data is critical for making both business automation processes.” marketing and business decisions Tim Darnall, chief technology that allow businesses to improve officer at Mutual of Omaha, said the customer experience. Digital customers expect to do business engagement with customers on with companies that meet them social channels and owned comwhere they feel most comfortable munities will enable companies to communicating and interacting.

Darnall deliver social proof, increase brand “No matter the communicaawareness, develop customer advocates and tions channel, customers want the interaction brand champions, improve purchase frequen- to be a continuous flow as opposed to starting cy, value, and rate, and cost-effectively expand over with a conversation if they switch from their marketing reach.” one method to another,” Darnall said. “Digital Jody Stier, sales engineer at TEAM processes are key to enabling this continuous Software, said businesses today have many customer conversation.” repetitive and time consuming processes that As interfaces such as Alexa, Siri and are either manual, create dual entry into mul- Google grow in popularity, he said businesses tiple systems, or requires employing a team of should look to implement digital systems that individuals to get the job or task done. can accommodate any channel that customers “Businesses are now looking to stream- use to communicate. line their business functions and tasks by “Businesses — especially those in the deploying software that does the job of many service sector — must continuously work to

empathetically understand their customers by always thinking from a customer’s perspective to determine how their services and solutions can meet needs,” Darnall said. “So many

of our daily activities are becoming more digital. If companies don’t embrace digital engagement and think innovatively, they could eventually face extinction.”

Todd Kirke, account executive at Paragon IT Professionals.

(Story below)

Greater Omaha area holds steady in need for versatile, tech-driven workers

by Jasmine Heimgartner

The early days of the computer age often came with a stereotypical idea of what IT meant and who was behind it. While the early focus was on computers, hardware, servers and software, innovation has turned something helpful into something vital for nearly every business.

That growth and sophistication has created an industry with an increasingly high demand for people with varied skillsets.

“Basically, all sectors are hiring our graduates, and there are often multiple jobs available for each graduate” said Hesham Ali, dean at the Continued on next page.

Technology •

Tech-driven employees

Continued from preceding page.

University of Nebraska at Omaha College of Information Science & Technology. “There is a connection with IT for all areas of business.

Across industries, there is a need to have online presence and some sort of information technology to move their business forward. Areas like cybersecurity and data analysts and scientists continue to grow because businesses need to protect themselves and save, store and manage a vast amount of data.”

Just how great is the need?

“In Nebraska, we need 10,000 new tech workers by 2025,” said Levi Thiele, vice president of Program & Resource Development at AIM Institute. “Growing our tech talent workforce would have Ali tremendous economic impact on our community. Some estimates say that filling open tech jobs in Omaha would provide a $102 million dollar economic boost for the local economy. Hiring challenges hurt businesses with lost revenue, slowed innovation and development, and employee burnout.”

Like other industries, need varies. There are some areas that continue to see a higher demand, especially as technology evolves.

“AIM has been conducting research with IT leaders to identify high demand tech jobs and tech skills,” Thiele said. “IT leaders tell us they are always looking for candidates who can do front-end development, back-end development, data analytic and security. Senior-level tech

positions can be particularly hard to fill. Some of the high-demand tech skills include data analytics, cloud integration, IoT, AI and machine learning, software engineering, and — believe it or not — mainframe and Cobol.”

As the field has integrated itself in nearly all facets of life, it has welcomingly opened the door to people with a range of interests and skills.

“I’ve never seen anything like IT,” said Todd Kirke, account executive at Paragon IT Professionals. “There is always something new to learn and build on. Now that it encompasses what business is, there are so many ways to get into it. You don’t have to be a coder or hands-on looking at screen. You can be a creative person and be in IT. The way people design web pages is all about art. People who Christensen like to plan everything would be great project managers. Some companies may be looking for laser focus in one area, but many others are looking for jacks-ofall trades.”

For many sectors, having highly trained employees with a healthy knowledge of technology is important.

“As it pertains to legal careers in the technology field, we have to be able to understand technology, or a use of technology, well enough to advise clients and represent clients, and this may require a greater degree of self-education, asking questions, etc.,” said Roberta Christensen, attorney at Koley Jessen.

“Further, it is necessary to stay current with the

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 7, 2020 •

laws applicable to the technology and its use.

The law doesn’t always keep up with the pace of innovation, sometimes forcing a ‘thinkingout-of-the-box’ solution.”

The area’s IT community is accessible to all and offers different outlets, experiences and opportunities to stay on the age of changes and learn more. Area schools are focused on educating K-12 students, teachers and professionals on the growing and extensive world of technology, as well as promoting diversity in the industry.

“There is often a lack of understanding,” Ali said. “The more exposure, the more interest you

9

see among a wide range. We try to find different ways to introduce IT disciplines to students and professionals. Many of them don’t realize how much there is to IT. There is something for everybody if they are really interested in it based on their interests and skills.”

Those considering one of those many needed jobs will see a few other perks to finding a technology job. Along with plenty of job opportunities and various types of work, it often means high salaries, being part of a field based in discovery and creation, and helping others solve problems and save time and money.

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• FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • Midlands Business Journal

Security Equipment Inc. grows market share with larger accounts Continued from page 1. additional regional and national accounts,” Vellek said.

Vellek, a Sioux Falls native and 2003 business management graduate of Colorado Technical University, said SEi has several Fortune 100 accounts with companies that have a “local feel.” Telecom and transportation are among the fields served.

Some Nebraska and Iowa customers start with SEi when their enterprises are created and continue and even expand services as they open in additional markets.

Otherwise, SEi’s core market area is Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas and northwest Missouri.

SEi has taken additional space in the 24,000-square-foot building it owns at 2238 S. 156th Circle. There are about 190 employees in Omaha. The Lincoln branch at 8200 Cody Drive was doubled two years ago and now employs 20 in 3,200 square feet.

Overall, SEi serves more than 16,000

homes and businesses.

SEi is headed by President Mike Meridith, whose parents founded the business 51 years ago. His sister Kristin Meridith is senior vice president. Their father, Sid Meridith, is chairman of the board.

A nine-member management team operates the business, which has a 24-seat Five Diamond Certified Monitoring Center at its Omaha headquarters.

Sid Meridith, in a 1984 Midlands Business Journal interview, said a differentiating characteristic for SEi was the decision early on to invest in its own monitoring center — a venture he said helped position the company for growth while sending a strong message of being “customer-oriented.”

He preached with each position filled: “The next sale relies on the satisfaction in our previous work and the record we build can affect us drastically.”

Vellek, who joined SEi five and a half years ago, said the Underwriters Laborato-

ries-listed central station’s trained ambas- tories outside or inside a wide area. sadors who monitor equipment showing “It allows them to be more proactive activity in 43 states — like employees than reactive while reducing risk and liathroughout the company — have a higher bility,” he said. “Insurance companies are than industry average tenure of 14 years. pushing for more video monitoring. It’s “Our staff goes through regular cyber- also a cost-effective for industries that security training in February, plus a couple are being driven by more new regulatory of other sessions throughout the year,” he compliance needs.” said.

Vellek, who spent Signals, emails Security Equipment Inc. the first 10 years of a n d p h o n e c a l l s Phone: 402-333-3233, Omaha; 402-434his career in Calicome into the south- 3233, Lincoln fornia working for a west Omaha center Address: 2238 S. 156th Circle, Omaha technology provider on a 24-hour basis. partner of SEi, said 68130; 8200 Cody Drive, Lincoln 68512 D i s a s t e r r e - Services: commercial and residential that cybersecurity covery software, security solutions interests of larger already in use in Founded: 1969 by Sid & Lois Meridith firms are now filterOmaha, was added Employees: 190 ing down to small and to SEi’s Kansas City One-year goal: Continue to grow monmid-sized businesses. facility last year.

“The smaller itoring and service side of the business; Whereas much expand number of regional and national companies are now of SEi’s growth in accounts. recognizing that the early years was Industry outlook: Video’s role is being while there’s no magin residential fire expanded as part of security services. ic answer, having the a l a r m s , b u s i n e s s Website: www.sei-security.com right diligence and fire and security acequipment protects count for more than half of revenues today. them as they grow their business,” he said.

The approach taken by SEi personnel is Vellek echos the philosophy of two to become a consultant to the customer — generations of the Meridith family: “If especially in an environment where larger there’s a need we’re going to invest.” businesses are looking for one provider to However, he cautions, that sometimes monitor multiple firm sites and with many SEi’s growth opportunities need to be of the same solutions. tempered if it’s too fast and could compro“The challenge is to try to maintain mise the service or customer experience the small-company edge although we’re expectations. growing in a midsize company, and our Sid Meridith’s father ran a fire alarm focus is to provide more information to business in Boone, Iowa, and the younger our customers to help them make better Meridith spent his summers during college decisions more easily,” Mike Meridith told working there. Michael Meridith, whose MBJ in a 2005 interview. parents started SEi in 1969 out of their An initiative in a redesign of call center home, started working in the family vensoftware and responsibilities was to give ture at age 13. ambassadors the tools to handle and reSEi grew by planning projects that solve at least 80% of the calls themselves ranged from $150,000 to $1.8 million at without having to transfer customers to the turn of the century for customers that individual departments such as alarms, included the Union Pacific, Omaha Steaks, billing, service, among others.

Nebraska Furniture Mart and the Omaha “In handling customers we’ve always Airport Authority, among others. The secustood behind what we’ve committed rity provider followed then-Omaha based ourselves to do and our employees are Pepperjax Grill as it added more than 40 empowered to get it resolved,” Vellek said. locations in the Midwest.

Categories of service include resiWork for clients such as the Lincoln dential, business security, life safety and Municipal Airport and the Des Moines medical alerts.

International Airport involved rigorous And new technologies abound. adherence to Transportation Security On the residential side, the increased Administration and Federal Aviation Adfrequency of “porch pirates” has enabled ministration regulations.

SEi to roll out an integrated video doorbell A few years ago “virtual guard” rethat can activate the chime on a customer’s mote monitoring services for the Durham keypad and trigger live video inside SEi’s Museum were used for a special exhibit InTouch mobile app, and can unlock the featuring artifacts of the Abraham Lincoln door for the deliverer. presidency.

Vellek tells of a global manufacturer Remote technology ranging from that uses remote into cameras throughout cameras to intercoms is being used at the world to help reduce disasters such as manufacturing facilities. SEi personnel fire, water leaks, among others. work with clients to write procedures He said cameras are only looked at by which plants can receive after-hour when an event happens. shipments, answer the firm’s phone, “The technology allows us to see in- watch trucks being unloaded and monitor truders, threats that can cause fire, water gate operations. leaks from burst pipes, suspicious behavior For Vellek, a growth area for SEi outside in a parking lot or yard,” Vellek could come with video health monitorsaid. “Inside a building the temperature ing. A customer’s camera can be down and water can be monitored and switched and with SEi’s monitoring, the problem on or off.” is detected at headquarters, the client is Thermo-camera technology is being called, and a service technician is promptly used by car dealerships with large inven- dispatched.

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 7, 2020 •

11

Holly’s Healthy Holes balances fun, flavor and nutritious treats Continued from page 1. donuts sold.

“A lot of that was social media — it’s seriously such a powerful tool,” Wiest said. “I’ve just been dedicated to being really authentic on social media and sharing all the messy parts of this process, and people have laughed at me, laughed with me, enjoyed all those silly mistakes and it’s grown 100% on social media. We didn’t have a budget for advertising, we haven’t sought out to do any of those things — it’s just been people telling their friends.”

SUPER CROSSWORD

Answers on page 12.

Wiest is a certified personal trainer, certified holistic health coach and a former body builder.

She started out making muffins, bars, breads and donuts to share with her clients. People kept coming back for the donuts, which eventually led to so many orders and deliveries that the idea of turning her passion into a business sparked.

“For me personal training was just like access for me to be able to talk to people about food and so I would make them treats that I had invented in my body building years,” she said.

RISING TO THE DEBATE

Maria Dorsey whips up a batch of donuts.

“In my body building years, I would eat donuts are always offered and include Maple Glazed, to reward myself in more of an unhealthy way. Double Chocolate Chocolate and Lemon Chia.

“That’s the fun part because our menu reAnd so to make donuts with whey protein and gluten-free flour blends and with all whole volves and so we always have an original line foods, it felt like a way that I could do all the of donuts that you can buy anytime — those things that I love — take care of my body and are always super popping,” she said. “They’re love on other people and then also be mindful and compassionate towards myself in a balHolly’s Healthy Holes anced way.”

Phone: 515-708-8285 Around the same time, Wiest met her boyAddress: 2215 Leavenworth St., Omaha friend and business partner, John McCardle, 68102 who immediately saw potential in her product, Services: gluten-free, minimal ingredient lent a business perspective and encouraged her protein donuts available through online to pursue her dream. He was the initial investor ordering for direct delivery, pickup at its and came up with the company’s name, Holly’s partner locations or pickup at its LeavenHealthy Holes, and conducted focus groups and worth Street commercial kitchen market research.

Founded: 2018 Even though Wiest doesn’t have a college Website: www.hollyshealthyholes.com degree or business experience, she said that research, networking and a willingness to learn so popular that we keep them around and then has helped her face many business challenges. we rotate really fun limited time only flavors.”

In the summer, Wiest frequents local “Every step of the way I’m literally reading, researching on the internet, I’m taking the re- farmers markets to buy produce to incorporate sources around me … from these relationships into the donut recipes. She also partners with that have been established as I’m asking ques- other local food businesses like The Gourmet tions, and people are so open and willing to help Granola, Tasty Good Toffee and Brickway Brewery to add interesting flavors or toppings. and it’s just a matter of me asking,” she said.

Holly’s Healthy Holes is planning to set up Maria Dorsey, who owned her own pasta company and catering business and has years at the Omaha Farmers Market at Aksarben Vilof experience in the industry, joined full time lage and at events like the High Vibe Festival, Maha Festival and the Winter Farmer’s Market around Thanksgiving.

“It’s been so great to see her take this at Nebraska Brewing Company.

While food diets and trends like Atkins, kitchen and make it her own and put all these processes … in place that are benefiting so paleo or keto come and go, Wiest strives to many things that we do as far as inventory, give people more options when it comes to food choices, knowing that each individual has staffing — it’s monumental,” she said.

Currently, donuts are baked on Mondays, their own definition of what’s healthy for them.

“As a holistic health coach my goal has Wednesdays and Fridays, then delivered to businesses and individuals who placed their always been to listen to people and what they orders online. Donuts are also available in are doing and help empower them on their own journey, not to tell them what’s right and partnering coffee shops and nutrition stores.

A part-time driver was recently hired to wrong,” she said. “[The definition of healthy] is always going to change but being a healthy help with deliveries.

Wiest is looking to expand the company’s donut company, we can look at those definitions partnerships to get into more retail locations and try to check off as many as possible and do and potentially grocery stores. Customers can the best that we can to reach as many people and buy donuts directly at about 20 local retailers, help them out. We’re never going to be perfect including in Lincoln. She’s also working on and we’re never going to be able to do all the improving the website to make it easier for things at once really well, but we can change and grow as those trends change and we can online preordering.

Holly’s Healthy Holes offers two types offer more options.”

Holly’s Healthy Holes has vegan and dairyof donuts: Specialties and Originals. Every month the specialty menu changes with recipes free options and all donuts are gluten-free, low developed by Wiest and Dorsey. The Originals carb and made with natural sugars.

12

• FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • Midlands Business Journal

Per user licensing model helps to fuel 40% annual growth for H4 Technology the resources available like other large sysContinued from page 1. and that model, where you’re scaling a tems. It makes it scalable.”

More to this point, Christenson referred product down to a per user fee, hasn’t been done much in health care. Traditionally, to rural or smaller health care providers who big solutions come with a big price tag and can’t afford or don’t have the staff or systems are costly. So, we are truly changing the in place to implement large solutions.

“Traditionally, model and making it that technology isn’t a valuable return on H4 Technology available to that martheir investment in Phone: 402-819-4441 ket,” he said. “With Address: 14127 Dayton Circle, suite 6, our solutions.” a per user and per From its head- Omaha 68137 provider [model], that quarters in Omaha at Services: cloud-based platform to help critical access hospi14127 Dayton Circle, health care organizations manage, intetal in rural Nebraska H4 Technology pro- grate and analyze their data can have [technolovides data manage- Founded: 2012 gy] delivered to them. ment, integration and Website: www.h4-technology.com “Rural providers analytics to health care organizations through its cloud-based and smaller specialists that aren’t potentially tied to the huge health systems can keep platform: COMPASS. “In the grand scheme of things, orga- their independence, stay viable, and provide nizations need analytic solutions to drive sustainability so they can thrive in the future. behavior change in health care systems if With the change in health care, that is what they are entering into value-based care, and we’re truly trying to do; to help those provalue-based contracts are becoming more viders continue to provide services to these and more prevalent,” Christenson said. “So, areas. They’re a vital part of Nebraska, to there will be opportunities to help other keep people healthy in the community.”

Furthermore, Christenson referenced health systems, and physician networks and independent physicians who may not have how the data integration components allow

Experts expect international stocks to outperform US shares in 2020s

by Carla Fried

When it comes to investing, we’re all prone to home bias, the habit of preferring U.S. stocks over international stocks. It’s an easy habit to pick up — and justify — given that the combined Stocks value of U.S. firms dominates the global marketplace. According to the World Bank, the value of publicly traded U.S. stocks at the end of 2018 was around $30 trillion, which was slightly more than the combined market value of the next 10 countries.

Your recency bias is likely at play, too.

That’s the tendency to make investment decisions based on what we’ve most recently experienced. And U.S. stocks have been much better performers recently. Much, much better. Since the start of the current U.S. bull market in March 2009, an index of U.S. stocks has gained an annualized 16.8%, compared to 9.7% for an index of non-U.S. stocks.

But that large outperformance is one of the big reasons you might want to consider giving over more of your portfolio to international stocks for the years ahead.

Right now, U.S. stocks are not “cheap,” which reduces the likelihood they will be able to repeat their strong returns for the decade ahead.

Each year, the Vanguard Investment Strategy Group, the wonky side of the Vanguard fund group, publishes an outlook that includes forecasts of returns for different types of investments over the next 10 years. In its 2020 outlook, Vanguard expects U.S. stocks will likely produce an annualized return for the decade ahead that ranges between 3.5% and 5.5%. Its forecast for international stocks is a range between 6.5% and 8.5%.

Research Affiliates, a firm that specializes in developing asset allocation strategies for institutional clients, pub-

lishes a monthly update of the returns it expects dozens of different types of investments to produce over the next 10 years. The median nominal annualized return for all global stocks is expected to be 4.9%. Breaking that down, U.S. large cap stocks — think: S&P 500 — have an expected return of 2.5%, U.S. small caps are projected to produce a 3.9% annualized return. An index of stocks from developed international economies has an expected return of 7.1%, and faster-growing emerging-market stocks are expected to return — with a lot higher volatility — a 9.2% annualized return.

All of that suggests now might be a smart time to revisit how much of your portfolio is invested in stocks from companies based outside the U.S. If you’ve been on autopilot during this bull market, chances are international stocks have become an even smaller part of your portfolio. For instance, if back in 2009 you had 75% of your stock portfolio riding on U.S. stocks and the other 25% on international stocks, that mix would now be around 85% U.S. and 15% international. Time for some rebalancing perhaps?

Or if you have yet to dip your toe into international markets, two low-cost index options that earn a gold rating from research firm Morningstar are Vanguard Total International Stock Index fund and iShares Core MSCI Total International Stock ETF (meaning, exchange-traded fund). Both portfolios own stocks in developing and emerging international economies. If you’d prefer to stick with developed-country stocks, a low-cost index option that also gets a top Morningstar rating is the SPDR Portfolio Developed World ex-US ETF. ©2020 Rate.com News Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

for coordinated care across multiple environments, boosting organizations’ capabilities.

“So, we see ourselves as a partner to these organizations — not a vendor,” he said. “We have ongoing feedback from our user base on products, enhancements, we run agile development so we’re upgrading products and product suites every month.”

More to the partnership perspective, put a spotlight on its work with the Nebraska Hospital Association.

“We went out and posted webinars and gathered feedback from provider hospitals themselves before we launched the product, and NHA has a division called NHA Services, which is a partnership with vendors like us to promote products that benefit their members,” Christenson said. “So, we’re the claims management backbone for NHA, and have a direct tie for visualizing hospital data back to their members and for that market analysis. Additionally, we offer a denial management suite as an ‘add-on’ for that membership.”

Christenson said that offering has attracted attention from other hospital associations, laying the groundwork for potentially expanding it to other states.

“Wisconsin and Indiana are two areas where we’re actively working, and hopefully there’s more to come,” he said. “We’re helping to improve the profitability and capturing revenue for these health care organizations.

And the reconciliation piece is a huge value-add, where we can reconcile what you build versus what you’ve captured with health care systems.”

Christenson added that, traditionally, organizations are looking at 9% denial rate of claims.

“Then there is the cost involved with tracking all those claims and making sure they get paid,” he said. “To date, we’re in Nebraska, Colorado, South Dakota and West Virginia. And we’re looking at potential areas to expand our footprint in those, and we have a client base here locally. Since we’re software-as-a-service [SaaS] we can offer this anywhere.”

Its farther afield West Virginia relationship, for instance, originated from picking up a large health system on its claims management side. Christenson further highlighted its recently-announced partnership with Paramount Management Group. According to the Jan. 28 announcement, H4 Technology will provide Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) decision support, analytic and data management solutions paired with management services focused on improved outcomes, lower costs, and minimizing downside risks.

Paramount Management Group is a subsidiary of Clarkson Regional Health Services, which reportedly joined Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska in partnership with Think Whole Person Healthcare at the beginning of the year. The group introduces best practices from their health system to the market.

“That partnership is for us to be the technology backbone, and to help them scale and leverage all the insight they’ve developed caring for patients over the past five, 10 years and to take that out to other organizations,” he said.

In all, via Christenson’s 2019 Year in Review write-up, H4 Technology has grown its user base to more than 2,500 users of the signature COMPASS product.

SUPER CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS

Puzzle on page 11.

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 7, 2020 •

Farm bankruptcies keep rising across the US

by Adam Belz

Farm bankruptcies across the U.S. rose again in 2019, as a prolonged slump in commodity prices, poor weather and the ongoing trade war with China squeezed farmers.

Farm bankruptAgriculture cies rose 20% nationally in 2019 and 16% in the Upper Midwest, according to data released by the federal court system.

While the absolute numbers are small, they have been rising steadily since 2013, a year after the most recent peak in farm profits. Farm bankruptcies in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, South Dakota and North Dakota were three times greater last year than in 2013. Small dairy farms have led the way.

Chapter 12 filings are the tip of the iceberg when it comes to farm financial troubles. Some farmers file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and liquidate their holdings.

Farmers with more than $4.2 million in debt cannot file for Chapter 12, and corporations or partnerships in which no single farmer owns more than 50% of the farm more often file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

The extended downcycle since the 2012 peak has led farmers to take on more debt

and lenders to demand more collateral. Alternative lenders fill some gaps.

“The situation is just kind of dragging out and wearing people down,” said Kevin Klair, director of the Center for Farm Financial Management at the University of Minnesota Extension. “The big difference between this and the 1980s is we’re not falling off a cliff. It’s a slow, painful grind.”

Winter is when row crop farmers go to the bank for a new line of credit to pay for seed, fertilizer and other planting expenses for the year. That requires demonstrating to a lender that they can pay back the money.

More than half of Minnesota bankers surveyed by the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis in the fall.

“Maybe 10% to 15%” of farmers are struggling to find a lender right now, said Aaron Brudelie, a farm business management instructor in Welcome, Minn.

“They’re either needing to put up more collateral to get a renewed operating note, or they’re having to sell something,” Brudelie said.

The first thing a farmer will sell is underused farm equipment, Brudelie said.

Selling land is “the last resort,” he noted, in part because bankers often demand land

as collateral.

Low interest rates, high land prices and the trade war bailout from the U.S. Department of Agriculture helped farmers withstand a poor year in 2019 brought on by the trade war and wet spring. But the downward trend is unmistakable and without an elusive rebound in corn and soybean prices it will continue.

“We have fewer farmers now than we did five years ago that can self-fund their operation,” said Keith Olander, a farm business management instructor in Staples, Minn.

Off-farm jobs have been a financial lifeline for thousands of Minnesota farmers, Olander said.

Median farm income in the state was $26,000 in 2019, and Olander said when family living expenses and debt service are calculated, that median farm came out $31,000 in the hole for the year. This isn’t an abstraction for Olander. He has a database of 2,600 real farm’s financials.

“Average family off-farm income was over $30,000 so that’s how they make it work,” he said.

Farm debt in 2019 was projected to hit $415 billion, a 24% increase since 2012 but not, adjusted for inflation, as much debt as

Donors are a lousy way to gauge political support

By Froma Harrop

To get onstage at the last Democratic debate, a candidate had to have received contributions from at least 225,000 donors. That disqualified Mike Bloomberg.

He has only one donor: Economy himself.

That rule sounded nice and democratic with a small "d," but actually, it is a highly flawed way to measure a candidate's ability to win a national election. The Democratic National Committee has wisely just removed that requirement from the next debate, scheduled for Feb. 19 in Nevada.

This will almost certainly give Bloomberg a place at the podium in Las Vegas. All he has to do is reach 10 percent in four national polls, and he's almost there.

Some believe this change was made to help Bloomberg. They may be right. But there was something odd about keeping a Democrat who is obviously a top contender off the debate stage. Recent polls show Bloomberg -- along with Joe Biden -- best able among Democrats to defeat President Donald Trump.

It's time to stop dismissing Bloomberg as nothing more than a gazillionaire trying to buy the election. He was a three-term mayor of New York City. That's a bigger and harder job than any of the other candidates ever held. The borough of Brooklyn alone has four times the population of Bernie Sanders' state of Vermont. And the differences between New York's and Vermont's ethnic, racial, religious and economic diversity can hardly be compared.

Money is money. If buying the election is the concern, then the sums spent should matter more than where funds came from.

That would also apply to Sanders. He dropped an astounding $50 million in the last three months of 2019 on his campaign -- at least $15 million more than Biden,

Elizabeth Warren and Pete Buttigieg each spent.

Sanders and Warren boast that they take money only from small donors. That seems more democratic but mainly on the surface. Their claims are partly false. Both campaigns have tapped millions obtained from deeper pockets.

The argument that politicians relying on small donations can't be bought by moneyed interests goes only so far. You could say the same of a multibillionaire who isn't taking money from anybody.

Even less valid is the case that legions of small donors reflect electability. Sanders has a core of passionate supporters who have contributed nearly $60 million in donations less than $200 in the 2020 cycle. But passion does not necessarily win elections. Votes do. How come Biden, whose fundraising has been pathetic, still does better than Sanders in most national polls -- among Democratic voters as well as the general electorate?

Like Sanders, Trump has a cultlike following and has amassed his own mountain of small checks. According to OpenSecrets, in the 2020 cycle, he has raised over $44 million from small donors. Warren raised slightly less.

But now the question must be asked: What about voters who (SET ITAL) don't (END ITAL) give money to any candidates? If you're poor, you may have higher priorities for that $25 than a politician's campaign.

And if you have two jobs and three kids running around, you're probably not online on political websites hours a day.

You're not at rallies. And if you're not engaged that way, you probably aren't being solicited for campaign contributions. But there's a good chance that you will vote.

Yes, Americans should address the role of big money in their politics. But now is not the time for the Democratic Party to

unilaterally disarm. We don't know how Bloomberg will fare in primaries to come.

But there are reasons he currently belongs front and center among the top candidates -- and they go beyond his vast fortune.

Follow Froma Harrop on Twitter @ FromaHarrop. She can be reached at fharrop@gmail.com. To find out more about Froma Harrop and read features by other Creators writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators webpage at www.creators.com.

Copyright 2020 Creators.com

13

in the early 1980s, and the debt-to-equity ratios for farmers are much more reasonable now than heading into the 1980s farm crisis.

What’s changing is who farmers are borrowing from. Large banks are pulling back from farm lending. The nine banks in the country with more than $250 billion in assets — including Wells Fargo, U.S. Bank and Bank of America — have cut their farm lending portfolios by a combined 14% since 2016, or roughly $2 billion.

“When farming is good, they want to get in, and as soon as it gets tough they want to get out,” said Gary Wertish, president of the Minnesota Farmers Union.

More farmers are turning to alternative lenders — getting loans from equipment dealers or seed companies, or tapping higher-interest financing from new entrants into ag lending.

The Wall Street Journal reported in November.

“I’d describe them as maybe payday lenders,” said Glen Smith, chairman of the Farm Credit Administration, at a Congressional subcommittee meeting.

Not only do they generally charge rates roughly double what traditional lenders charge, loans from alternative lenders and company-financed debt can make the situation more complicated for the local banker who’s been working with the farmer for years, especially if the loan goes sideways.

“It’s a lot tougher to untangle then — who’s got first position, who’s got second, and who might not get paid,” Brudelie said.

All this adds up to an increasingly complicated landscape, said Mary Nell Preisler, director of the farmer-lender mediation program at the University of Minnesota.

“It’s getting more difficult every year and more complex,” she said. “With the economy the way it is, it’s very difficult to make a cash flow work and have a positive bottom line.” ©2020 Star Tribune (Minneapolis) Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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• FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • Midlands Business Journal

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DENNIS P. LEE, Attorney LEE LAW OFFICE 2433 South 130th Circle, Suite 300 P.O. Box 45947 Omaha, Nebraska 68145 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Name: CGLL, LLC Date of Organization: January 24, 2020 State of Organization: Nebraska Registered Agent: Cheri Lee Grossoehme Registered Office: 8116 Grand Avenue, Omaha, NE 68134 Duration: Perpetual Capital Contribution: $5,000.00 First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 DANIEL R. CARNAHAN, Attorney DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF MORGAN-GIRGIS & GEORGE, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Morgan-Girgis & George, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska on January 17, 2020. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 7180 N. 122nd Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska 68142. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 BENJAMIN J. PICK, Attorney PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BACHMAN LLP 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3728 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF JES BROKERAGE SERVICES, P.C. Notice is hereby given of incorporation of JES BROKERAGE SERVICES, P.C. under the laws of the State of Nebraska as follows: 1. The name of the professional corporation is JES BROKERAGE SERVICES, P.C. 2. The number of shares that the professional corporation is authorized to issue is 1,000 shares of voting common stock.

3. The name of the initial registered agent is Benjamin J. Pick, and the address of the initial registered office is 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

4. The name and address of the incorporator is JORGE E. SOTOLONGO, 3504 S. 24th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68108.

5. The general nature of the profession to be practiced by the Corporation is real estate brokerage services.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that STANCO HAMPTON HOLDINGS, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska with the following registered agent and registered office: Joss Jeffery Tuenge, 1272 North 8th Street, Seward, NE 68434. The general nature of the business to be transacted is any or all lawful business. The business commenced on January 21, 2020, and it shall continue in perpetuity.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 AMANDA M. BARRON, Attorney P.O. Box 597 Fremont, Nebraska 68026 LEGAL NOTICE TO THE DEFENDANT(s), GENE H CRAWFORD You are hereby notified that Credit Bureau Services, Inc., a corporation, filed its complaint in the County Court of DOUGLAS County, Nebraska on 10/23/2019 on Case Number CI19-24076, the object and prayer of which is to recover the sum of $118.00, plus interest, attorney fees and court costs.

You are required to answer the complaint of the Plaintiff on or before 03/14/2020 or the allegations in said complaint will be taken as true and judgment entered accordingly.

CREDIT BUREAU SERVICES, INC., A CORPORATION First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020

ROBERT L. FREEMAN, ATTORNEY FRASER STRYKER P.C. L.L.O. 500 Energy Plaza, 409 South 17th Street Omaha, NE 68102-2663 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF VILLAGE POINTE MED, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Village Pointe, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska on November 20, 2019. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 500 Energy Plaza, 409 South 17th Street, Omaha, NE 68102-2663. The Registered Agent of the Company is Robert L. Freeman 500 Energy Plaza, 409 South 17th Street, Omaha, NE 68102-2663 First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 ROBERT E. BURNS, Attorney 11330 Q Street, Suite 220 Omaha, Nebraska 68137 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF TKBRAND, LLC Notice is hereby given of the organization of TKBRAND, LLC. 1. The name of the limited liability Company is TKBRAND, LLC. 2. The company's Initial agent for service of process is Troy A. Brand.

The Initial agent's address and the address of the Initial designated office of the Company is 6320 South 131st Circle, Omaha, NE 68137.

3. The general nature of the business to be transacted by the Company is to engage in and transact in any and all lawful business enterprises for which a Limited Liability Company may be organized under the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act, and specifically to engage in the ownership and management of real estate, and all other related activities, and to own, hold and sell or assign any and all licenses necessary or advisable to conduct said business.

4. The Company commenced on December 27, 2019, and shall have a perpetual duration.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 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 TEK INDUSTRIES HOLDINGS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Tek Industries Holdings, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 8843 South 137th Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68138. The registered agent and office of the limited liability company is Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O. at 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The Certificate of Organization was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on January 14, 2020.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 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 DMSI HOLDINGS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that DMSI Holdings, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 17002 Marcy Street, Suite 200, Omaha, Nebraska 68118. The registered agent and office of the limited liability company is CSC-Lawyers Incorporating Service Company, 233 South 13th Street, Suite 1900, Lincoln, Nebraska 68508. The Certificate of Organization was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on November 26, 2019.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF ATOMIC NINJAS OF OMAHA LLC Notice is hereby given that Atomic Ninjas Of Omaha LLC. (the “Company”) has been organized as a limited liability company under Nebraska laws. The initial designated office of the Company is 18118 Mason St. Elkhorn, NE 68022. The initial registered agent of the Company is LEGALINC CORPORATE SERVICES INC. located at 706 N. 129th St. Suite 121 Omaha, NE 68154.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 KOLEY JESSEN P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, One Pacific Place Omaha, Nebraska 68124-1079 N O T I C E O F A M E N D M E N T T O T H E A RT I C L E S O F INCORPORATION OF THE HUNDRED FOUNDATION Notice is hereby given that the Articles of Incorporation of The Hundred Foundation have been amended to change the name of the corporation to: The Hogan Family Foundation. The Amendment was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on January 14, 2020.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 DENNIS P. LEE, Attorney LEE LAW OFFICE 2433 South 130th Circle, Suite 300 P.O. Box 45947 Omaha, Nebraska 68145 NOTICE OF SUIT TO: CHRIS A. RING, 2805 Angie Dr., Bellevue NE 68005, you are hereby notified that on November 11, 2019, American Family Mutual Ins. Co. filed a suit against you in the Douglas County Court at docket CI1924954, the object in prayer of which was to secure a judgment against you in the amount of $3,926.17, together with court costs, interest and attorney's fees as allowed by law. Unless you file your Answer with the Douglas County Court on or before the 16th day of March, 2020, the Petition against you will be considered as true and judgment will be entered against you accordingly.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 14, 2020

RUSSELL J. KREIKEMEIER, Attorney KREIKEMEIER LAW OFFICES 126 East Grove Street West Point, Nebraska 68788 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given of the organization of Stavas Medical Imaging, LLC, with its registered office address at 126 East Grove, West Point, Nebraska 68788 and its principal office location at 662 North 63rd Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68138. The purpose or purposes for which this Company is formed is to specialize in diagnosing injuries and diseases using medical imaging procedures such as X-Ray, Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), nuclear medicine, Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and ultrasound; from body imaging to diagnostic radiology, mammography, to molecular medicine/imaging, interventional radiology procedures and medical consulting. The Company will conduct any other matter(s) including the transaction of all or any lawful business or engagement in any commercial venture permitted by the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act, as amended, and all other applicable law. The initial capital of the Company has been contributed and evidence of membership in the Company will be issued by the Management Board. The Company commenced doing business on November 6, 2019, and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the Company shall be conducted by a Management Board and such other Officers and Managers as may be provided for in the Operating Agreement of the Company.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION Ginkgo Naturals, Inc., whose registered agent is Jeffrey H. Ferris and registered office is 659 N. 63rd Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68132, was formed on January 23, 2020 to engage in any lawful business. The corporation has authorized 10,000 shares of capital stock.

Thomas E. Whitmore, Incorporator First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 ERICKSON l SEDERSTROM, P.C., Attorneys 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF MERGER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Nox-Crete Properties, Inc., a Nebraska corporation (the “Merging Corporation), and Nox-Crete, Inc., a Nebraska corporation (the “Surviving Corporation), have adopted and filed Articles of Merger with the Secretary of State, wherein the Merging Corporation will merge with and into the Surviving Corporation effective as of January 1, 2020.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 MARY E. VANDENACK, Attorney VANDENACK WEAVER LLC 17007 Marcy Street, Suite 3 Omaha, Nebraska 68118 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF TLG PROPERTIES LLC Notice is hereby given that TLG PROPERTIES 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 17007 Marcy Street, Suite 3, Omaha, NE 68118. The agent for service of process for the Company is VW Agents LLC located at 17007 Marcy Street, Suite 3, Omaha, NE 68118-3121.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF AMENDMENT TO THE CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION OF AE SCHMIDT SERVICES, LLC Notice is hereby given that the Certificate of Organization of AE Schmidt Services, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company, has been amended to reflect that the company renders professional services. The Amended Certificate of Organization was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on January 16, 2020.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 ERICKSON l SEDERSTROM, P.C., Attorneys 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 N O T I C E O F A M E N D M E N T T O T H E A RT I C L E S O F INCORPORATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that NCI, Inc., a Nebraska corporation, has adopted and filed Articles of Amendment with the Secretary of State changing the name of the company to Nox-Crete, Inc. effective as of January 1, 2020.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 HUSCH BLACKWELL LLP, Attorneys 13330 California Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF FOREST RIVER LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Forest River LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska on January 23, 2020 (the “Company”). The Company has designated its registered agent as Marc Johnson, with registered office at 7307 N. 151st Circle, Bennington, NE 68007. The Company’s initial designated office is at 7307 N. 151st Circle, Bennington, NE 68007. The Company shall be governed by one or more managers. The general nature of business is any lawful purpose.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • LEGAL NOTICES SEAN D. MOYLAN, Attorney 1010 South 120th Street, Suite 320 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF 2127 VALENTINE STREET, LLC Notice is hereby given that 2127 Valentine Street, LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, is organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with its registered agent Sean D. Moylan and designated office both located at 1010 South 120th Street, Suite 320, Omaha, Nebraska 68154.

The purpose for which 2127 Valentine Street, LLC has been established is real estate management, and any and all lawful businesses for which a limited liability company may be organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

Perpetual existence commenced on January 15, 2020. Management of the company shall be vested in its Members.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 ERICKSON l SEDERSTROM, P.C., Attorneys 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION Corporate Name: MDtelehealth, P.C. Registered Agent: Erickson & Sederstrom P.C. a limited liability organization Registered Office: 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114 Authorized Number of Shares: 10,000 Incorporators: John Horne, MD, 2111 South 67th Street, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68106 Renuga Vivekanandan, MD, 2111 South 67th Street, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68106 First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 KATHRYN J. DERR, Attorney BERKSHIRE & BURMEISTER 1301 South 75th Street, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68124 NOTICE OFAMENDMENT TO CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION OF ROYAL TERRACE, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION OF ROYAL TERRACE, LLC has been amended so as to change the name of the company to LENA PROPERTIES II, LLC as of January 6, 2020.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF 4863 SOUTH 121ST STREET, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that 4863 South 121st Street, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The Designated Office Address of the Company is 2357 South 183rd Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68130. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 9500 W. Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF 3717 NORTH 70TH AVENUE, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that 3717 North 70th Avenue, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The Designated Office Address of the Company is 2357 South 183rd Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68130. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 9500 W. Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 SAMUEL J. TURCO, SR., Attorney 2580 South 90th Street Omaha, Nebraska 68124 LEGAL NOTICE In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR9-1913 Estate of TIMOTHY A. SVACINA, Deceased Notice is hereby given that on December 16, 2019, in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, the Registrar issued a written statement of Informal Probate of the Will of said Deceased, and that Karen Walag, whose address is 1453 North 96th Avenue, Omaha, NE 68114, was informally appointed by the Registrar as 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 March 24, 2020 or be forever barred.

CARROL L. MILLS Registrar First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that PMP Property Management LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The Designated Office Address of the Company is 6515 N 46th Ave, Omaha NE 68152. Its affairs are to be conducted by the manager Kunta Plunkett.

Its registered agent is Irene Tryon and the street address is 5421 N 103rd St, Suite 400, Omaha, NE 68134.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020

ABRAHAMS KASLOW & CASSMAN LLP, Attorneys 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION Steve A. Johnson, CPA, P.C. has been incorporated under the Nebraska Professional Corporation Act of Nebraska. The street address of the corporation's initial registered office is 8305 Davenport Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68114, and the name of the initial registered agent of the corporation at that office is Steve A. Johnson, CPA. The corporation is authorized to issue 10,000 shares of Common Stock. The name and street address of the incorporator of the corporation are Steve A. Johnson, CPA, 8305 Davenport Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that FRY PROPERTY, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The address of the Company’s designated office is 16183 Wakeley St, Omaha, NE 68118.

The name and address of the registered agent is Greg Fry, 16183 Wakeley St, Omaha, NE 68118. The general nature of the business is any legal and lawful activity allowed pursuant to the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act and the laws of the State of Nebraska and elsewhere. The Company commenced business on 1/20/2020 and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the Company are to be managed by its managers.

Greg Fry, Member First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that Bellmark Properties, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The address of the Company’s designated office is 7914 West Dodge Rd, Suite 162, Omaha, NE 68114. The name and address of the registered agent is Khanh Tran of Tran & Associates Law, 1910 S 44th St, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68105. The general nature of the business is any legal and lawful activity allowed pursuant to the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act and the laws of the State of Nebraska and elsewhere. The Company commenced business on 1/20/2020 and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the Company are to be managed by its managers.

John Amiri, Member First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that PG Realty, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The address of the Company’s designated office is 1910 S 44th St, STE 100, Omaha, NE 68105.

The name and address of the registered agent is Andrew Panebianco at 1910 S 44th St, Suite 100, Omaha, NE 68105. The general nature of the business is any legal and lawful activity allowed pursuant to the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act and the laws of the State of Nebraska and elsewhere.

The Company commenced business on 1/23/2020 and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the Company are to be managed by its managers.

Andrew Panebianco, Member First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020

15

ERICKSON l SEDERSTROM, P.C., Attorneys 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION Corporate Name: Downey Law Offices, P.C., L.L.O Registered Agent: Shaun Downey Registered Office: 4939 South 24th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68107 Authorized Number of Shares: 10,000 Incorporator: Shaun Downey, 4939 South 24th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68107 First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Real Estate Sold By Sonia LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The Designated Office Address of the Company is 16063 Frederick Street, Omaha NE 68130. Its affairs are to be conducted by the manager Sonia Herrera. Its registered agent is Sonia Herrera.and the street address is 16063 Frederick Street, Omaha NE 68130.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF BAILOR RENTALS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Bailor Rentals, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 4507 Walnut Street, Omaha, NE 68106.

The registered agent and office of the limited liability company is Jason Michael Bailey, 4507 Walnut Street, Omaha, NE 68106. The limited liability company commenced business on December 10, 2019.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION of a Limited Liability Company Notice is hereby given the registration with the Nebraska Secretary of state’s office of Cisneros Tree Service, LLC under the laws of the State of Nebraska as follows: The name of the company is Cisneros Tree Service, LLC. Registered agent and office of Cisneros Tree Service, LLC is Luis Alberto Cisneros at 1010 S 25th Street, Omaha, NE 68105. The designated address is 1010 S 25th Street, Omaha, NE 68105. Initial members: Luis Alberto Cisneros. General nature of the business is to transact any and all lawful business for which limited liability companies are allowed by statute.

The LLC was organized on November 2019 for the perpetual duration and is managed by its members.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 ABRAHAMS KASLOW & CASSMAN LLP, Attorneys 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Trades Up Technical Academy LLC has been organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office of the company is 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

The name and street and mailing address of the initial registered agent of the company for service of process are Andrew P. Deaver and 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020

DIANE STEFFENS RINGENBERG & RATTNER LAW 14301 FNB Parkway, Suite 204 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF MONTAGE SPECIAL PROJECTS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Montage Special Projects, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 1303 South 72nd Street, Suite 209, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The Registered Agent of the Company is Kendra Ringenberg, 14301 FNB Parkway, Suite 204, Omaha, Nebraska 68154.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020

DANA ROCHE, Attorney RINGENBERG & RATTNER LAW 14301 FNB Parkway, Suite 204 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF WEST MAPLE CAR WASH, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that West Maple Car Wash, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The Designated Office Address of the Company is 222 S. 15th Street, Suite 1404S, Omaha, Nebraska 68102. The Registered Agent of the Company is Kendra Ringenberg, 14301 FNB Parkway, Suite 204, Omaha, Nebraska 68154.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020

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 VIKING RACQUETS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Viking Racquets, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 425, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The registered agent and office of the limited liability company is Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O., 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The limited liability company commenced business on January 23, 2020.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020

AMANDA M. BARRON, Attorney P.O. Box 597 Fremont, Nebraska 68026 LEGAL NOTICE TO THE DEFENDANT(s), JACK N FURNISS & JESSICA E FURNISS You are hereby notified that Credit Bureau Services, Inc., a corporation, filed its complaint in the County Court of DOUGLAS County, Nebraska on 09/10/2019 on Case Number CI19-20732, the object and prayer of which is to recover the sum of $655.50, plus interest, attorney fees and court costs.

You are required to answer the complaint of the Plaintiff on or before 03/14/2020 or the allegations in said complaint will be taken as true and judgment entered accordingly.

CREDIT BUREAU SERVICES, INC., A CORPORATION First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020

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 Matthew P. West, M.D., P.C. 2. The Corporation is authorized to issue 10,000 shares of common stock having a par value of $0.01 each.

3. The Registered Office of the Corporation is: 13616 California Street, Suite 100, Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska 68154, and the Registered Agent at such address is Matthew P. West, M.D..

4. The corporate existence began on January 23, 2020, when Articles of Incorporation were filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State.

5. The name and address of the Incorporator is: Matthew P. West, M.D., 13517 Seward Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68154.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020

SEAN D. MOYLAN, Attorney 1010 South 120th Street, Suite 320 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF ZINC, LLC Notice is hereby given that Zinc, LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, is organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with its registered agent Sean D. Moylan and designated office both located at 1010 South 120th Street, Suite 320, Omaha, Nebraska 68154. The purpose for which Zinc, LLC has been established is real estate management, and any and all lawful businesses for which a limited liability company may be organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. Perpetual existence commenced on December 9, 2019. Management of the company shall be vested in its Members.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020

16

• FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • Midlands Business Journal

LEGAL NOTICES KELLOGG & PALZER, P.C. 10828 Old Mill Road, Suite 6 Omaha, Nebraska 68154-2647 NOTICE OFAMENDMENT TO CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION CHANGE OF NAME The Certificate of Organization of AMR ENTERPRISES, LLC. have been amended, changing the name of the company from AMR ENTERPRISES, LLC to CACR VENTURES, LLC., effective January 14 , 2020. All other provisions of the Certificate of Organization remain unchanged.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 WAYNE S. RASMUSSEN, Attorney SMITH SLUSKY POHREN & ROGERS LLP 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF BUFFALO RIDGE ENTERPRISES, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on January 16, 2020, Buffalo Ridge Enterprises, LLC was organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act, with a designated office at 14914 Buffalo Rd., Springfield, Nebraska 68059. The Company’s initial agent for service of process is Michael J. Schram, 14914 Buffalo Rd., Springfield, Nebraska 68059.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 DENNIS P. LEE, Attorney LEE LAW OFFICE 2433 South 130th Circle, Suite 300 P.O. Box 45947 Omaha, Nebraska 68145 Name: SLCZ, LLC Date of Organization: January 13, 2020 State of Organization: Nebraska Registered Agent: Saul Chavez Registered Office: 6223 N. 150th Street, Omaha, NE 68116 Duration: Perpetual Capital Contribution: $5,000.00 First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 HUSCH BLACKWELL LLP, Attorneys 13330 California Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF PACIFIC MARCY LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that PACIFIC MARCY LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska on January 13, 2020 (the “Company”). The Company has designated its registered agent as Flatwater Development Company LLC, with registered office at 17121 Marcy Street, Attn: Shervin Ansari, Omaha, NE 68118. The Company’s initial designated office is at 17121 Marcy Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68118. The Company shall be governed by one or more managers. The general nature of business is any lawful purpose.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 ALEX B. RAINVILLE, Attorney VANDENACK WILLIAMS LLC 17007 Marcy Street, Suite 3 Omaha, Nebraska 68118-3121 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF ALLAN IMPROVEMENT SERVICES, LLC Notice is hereby given that ALLAN IMPROVEMENT SERVICES, 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 17007 Marcy Street, Suite 3, Omaha, NE 68118. The agent for service of process for the Company is VW Agents LLC located at 17007 Marcy Street, Suite 3, Omaha, NE 68118-3121.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that Goons & Hooligans, L.L.C. (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the Company is 5123 S. 170th Ave, Omaha, Nebraska 68135. The registered agent of the Company is Brian Christiansen, 5123 S. 170th Ave, Omaha, Nebraska 68135. The Company was formed on January 16, 2020.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 NOTICE OF PUBLICATION TO: DEUZ CAMPOS You are hereby notified that on 08/27/19, the Plaintiff Credit Management Services, Inc., filed a Complaint in the COUNTY Court of DOUGLAS County, Nebraska, against you shown as Case Number CI19 19026. The object and prayer of which is a judgment in the amount of 223.00, plus court costs, pre-judgment interest and attorney fees, if applicable.

The Complaint prays that judgment be entered against you. You are hereby notified that you must answer the Complaint on or before 03/08/20 at the COUNTY court of DOUGLAS County, OMAHA Nebraska.

Megal L Bischoff #25206 P.O. Box 1512 Grand Island, NE 68802 (308)398-3801 Attorney for Plaintiff First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020

CHARLES E. DORWART, Attorney MASSIH LAW, LLC 226 N. 114th Street Omaha, NE 68154 LEGAL NOTICE In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR20-71 Estate of Donna M. Brich, Deceased Notice is hereby given that on January 16th, 2020, in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, the Registrar issued a written statement of Informal Probate of the testacy of said Decedent and that Renee M. Cummings, of 1810 North 171st Street, Omaha, NE 68118 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 March 24, 2020 or be forever barred.

CARROL L. MILLS Registrar First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 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 ZEHV’S PLACE, LLC The name of the Company is Zehv’s Place, LLC. The Designated Office of the Company is: 7630 Park Drive, Ralston, Nebraska 68127.

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. The purpose is to invest in qualified opportunity zone property by acquiring qualified opportunity zone partnership interests or qualified opportunity zone stock in one or more first-tier subsidiaries or by directly acquiring qualified opportunity zone business property and to engage in other activities incidental or related thereto. The Company intends to be a qualified opportunity fund and cause any first-tier subsidiaries it invests in to meet the requirements for a qualified opportunity zone business. This limited liability company commenced business on January 16, 2020.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 CAMERON M. RIECKE, Attorney LAMSON, DUGAN and MURRAY, LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3743 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF DIVYAANG Notice is hereby given that a nonprofit corporation has been formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the corporation is Divyaang. The corporation is a public benefit corporation and will have members. The name and street address of the corporation’s initial registered agent and office is Rakesh Srivastava, 3211 W. 12th St., Hastings, NE 68901.

The name and address of the incorporator is Rakesh Srivastava, 3211 W. 12th St., Hastings, NE 68901 Rakesh Srivastava, Incorporator First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF HAULRIGHT-AG, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Haulright-Ag, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The Designated Office Address of the Company is 700 Calvert Street, Lincoln, Nebraska 68502. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 9500 W. Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 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 ELITE REAL ESTATE INVESTORS 2020, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Elite Real Estate Investors 2020, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 20740 Rawhide Road, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022. 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 22, 2020.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 MARK GOODALL, Attorney GOVIER, KATSKEE, SUING & MAXELL, PC, LLO 10404 Essex Court, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 LEGAL NOTICE In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR20-106 Estate of WALDO D. OLSON, Deceased Notice is hereby given that on 24th day of January, 2020, in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, the Registrar issued a written statement of Informal Probate of the Will of said Decedent and that Kenneth D. Olson, whose address is 1515 North 212th Street, Elkhorn, NE 68022, 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 March 31, 2020 or be forever barred.

CARROL L. MILLS Registrar First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020

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 MAXWELL SOLUTIONS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Maxwell Solutions, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 1125 S 103rd Street Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The registered agent and office of the limited liability company is Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O., 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The limited liability company commenced business on January 15, 2020.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 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 KSAD AVIATION, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that KSAD Aviation, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 10340 N 84th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68122. 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 16, 2020.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION of a Limited Liability Company Notice is hereby given the registration with the Nebraska Secretary of state’s office of LFM Construction, LLC under the laws of the State of Nebraska as follows: The name of the company is LFM Construction, LLC. Registered agent and office of LFM Construction, LLC is Luis Fernando Mendez Alvarez at 4161 S 60th Street, Omaha, NE 68117. The designated address is 4161 S 60th Street, Omaha, NE 68117. Initial members: Luis Fernando Mendez Alvarez. General nature of the business is to transact any and all lawful business for which limited liability companies are allowed by statute. The LLC was organized on November 2019 for the perpetual duration and is managed by its members.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 PAUL R. DIETSCH, VICE PRESIDENT NODDLE DEVELOPMENT COMPANY 2285 S 67th Street, Ste. 250 Omaha, NE 68106 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF BONUS DAYS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Bonus Days, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska on November 4, 2019. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 2285 S 67th Street, Ste. 250, Omaha, NE 68106. The Registered Agent of the Company is Paul R. Dietsch, 2285 S 67th Street, Ste. 250, Omaha, NE 68106.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION of a Limited Liability Company Notice is hereby given the registration with the Nebraska Secretary of state’s office of FCM Construction, LLC under the laws of the State of Nebraska as follows: The name of the company is FCM Construction, LLC. Registered agent and office of FCM Construction, LLC is Filogonio Cruz Melchor at 620 N 41st Avenue, Omaha, NE 68131. The designated address is 620 N 41st Avenue, Omaha, NE 68131. Initial members: Filogonio Cruz Melchor. General nature of the business is to transact any and all lawful business for which limited liability companies are allowed by statute. The LLC was organized on January 2020 for the perpetual duration and is managed by its members.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 KELLOGG & PALZER, P.C. 10828 Old Mill Road, Suite 6 Omaha, Nebraska 68154-2647 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION 1. The name of the Company is NICOLE E. CRAWFORD, LLC. 2. The street address of the initial designated office is 6107 Maple Street, Suite B, Omaha, NE, 68104. The registered agent is Julia K. Palzer and the Registered Agent's address is 10828 Old Mill Road, Suite 6, Omaha, NE 68154.

3. The general nature of the Company is clinical mental health counseling.

4. The Company commenced on January 16, 2020, 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 January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 KELLOGG & PALZER, P.C. 10828 Old Mill Road, Suite 6 Omaha, Nebraska 68154-2647 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION 1. The name of the Company is CAREERLINK, LLC. 2. The street address of the initial designated office is 1905 Harney Street, Suite 110, Omaha, NE 68102. The registered agent for the company is Jeffrey T. Palzer and the registered agent's address is 10828 Old Mill Road, Suite 6, Omaha, NE 68154 3. The general nature of the Company is career placement services.

4. The Company commenced on January 15, 2020, 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 January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • 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 AMENDMENT TO THE CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Certificate of Organization of Epic, LLC has been amended to change the name of the company to: Men On The Moon, LLC. The amendment was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on January 28, 2020.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that Eccker Enterprises, LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 14301 FNB Parkway, Suite 100, Omaha, NE 68154. The initial agent for service of process of the Company is Kelsey M. Weiler, 14301 FNB Parkway, Suite 100, Omaha, NE 68154.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF DYNAMIC DENTAL ARTS LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Dynamic Dental Arts LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office is 4815 S. 161st Circle, Omaha, NE 68135. The registered agent is Karen Matychuk, 4815 S. 161st Circle, Omaha, NE 68135. These papers were filed with the Secretary of State 1/17/2019.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 JAMES R. SACOMAN, Attorney 14707 California Street, Suite 5 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 LEGAL NOTICE In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR19-1855 Estate of JAMES M. HEENEY, Deceased Notice is hereby given that on December 5, 2019, in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, the Clerk-Magistrate issued a written statement of Informal Probate of the Will of said Deceased, and that CAROLINE L. CHRISTIANSEN., whose address is 13954 Camden Avenue, Omaha, NE 68164 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 March 31, 2020 or be forever barred.

CARROL L. MILLS Registrar First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 CHARLES E. DORWART, Attorney MASSIH LAW, LLC 226 N. 114th Street Omaha, NE 68154 LEGAL NOTICE In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR19-1963 Estate of Richard J. Lenczowski, Deceased Notice is hereby given that on December 23, 2019, 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 Kim Lucas of 916 Elk Court, Beaver Lake, NE 68048 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 March 31, 2020 or be forever barred.

CARROL L. MILLS Registrar First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 TIEDEMAN, LYNCH, KAMPFE, McVAY & RESPELIERS, Attorneys 6910 Pacific Street, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68106-1045 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that LEELO BUILDING, LLC, has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska with its designated office at 6910 Pacific Street, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68106. The initial registered agent is John S. Kampfe, and the registered agent’s address is 6910 Pacific Street, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68106. The general nature of the business is to engage in any lawful business for which a limited liability company may be organized. The limited liability company was formed on October 29, 2019, and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by its Members.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 APPLICATION FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADE NAME Trade Name to be registered is: SHORELINES DESIGN Name of Applicant: KIMBERLY SHORE Address: 7035 S 164 ST, OMAHA, NE 68136 Applicant is an Individual If other than an Individual, state under whose laws entity was formed: Date of first use of name in Nebraska: 1/1/20 General nature of business: INTERIOR DESIGNS KIMBERLY SHORE Signature of Applicant or Legal Representative February 7, 2020

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that 3MFarm, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 517 S 188th Cir., Elkhorn, NE 68022. The initial agent for service of process of the Company is Jennifer Mulholland, 517 S 188th Cir., Elkhorn, NE 68022.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 PHILLIP G. WRIGHT, Attorney 103 East 4th Street Papillion, Nebraska 68406 NOTICE OF NAME CHANGE OF CORPORATION Notice is hereby given that on January 13, 2020, the name of S Line Motorsports, L.L.C. was changed to SLM Auto Care, L.L.C. On that date, an amended Certificate of Organization was also filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 RINGENBERG & RATTNER LAW 14301 FNB Parkway, Suite 204 Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that 72nd and Poppleton, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company, filed its Statement of Dissolution with the Nebraska Secretary of State on January 29, 2020, 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. Darren Hicks will wind up and liquidate the company’s business and affairs. If you have a claim against 72nd and Poppleton, LLC, please provide the following information with respect to your claim: 1) your name or the name of your entity; 2) the nature of your claim; 3) the amount of your claim; and 4) the date your claim arose. All claims shall be mailed to 72nd and Poppleton, LLC, c/o Darren Hicks, 1303 South 72nd Street, Suite 209, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. A claim against 72nd and Poppleton, LLC is barred unless an action to enforce the claim is commenced within five (5) years after the publication date of the third required notice.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 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 XCANCERAIR, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that XCancerAir, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 17607 Gold Plaza, Omaha, Nebraska 68130. 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 16, 2020.

First publication January 24, 2020, final February 7, 2020 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 EM GENERAL CONTRACTING, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that EM General Contracting, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 5823 Burdette Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68104. The registered agent and office of the limited liability company is Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O., 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The limited liability company commenced business on January 29, 2020.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that Bliss Beauty Bar, L.L.C. (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the Company is 2867 S. 168th Street, Studio 102, Omaha, Nebraska 68130. The registered agent of the Company is Sravanthi Tatikonda, 17282 Sprague Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68116. The Company was formed on January 29, 2020.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 KELLOGG & PALZER, P.C. 10828 Old Mill Road, Suite 6 Omaha, Nebraska 68154-2647 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION 1. The name of the Company is ADAPTIVE THERAPEUTIC SOLUTIONS, LLC. 2. The street address of the initial designated office is 5824 South 142nd Street, Suite A, Omaha, NE, 68137. The registered agent is Daniel J. Stava and the registered agent's address is 5824 South 142nd Street, Suite A, Omaha, NE 68137.

3. The general nature of the Company is mental health therapy.

4. The Company commenced on January 31, 2020 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 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020

17

WHITMORE LAW OFFICE LLC 7602 Pacific Street, Suite 200 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION SVM Health & Wellness Corp., whose registered agent is Stephen Magistro and registered office is 514 S. 85th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68144, was formed on February 3, 2020 to engage in any lawful business.

The corporation has authorized 10,000 shares of capital stock.

Thomas E. Whitmore, Incorporator First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 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 JPB CONSULTING, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that JPB Consulting, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 14260 Ellison Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska 68164. The registered agent and office of the limited liability company is Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O., 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The limited liability company commenced business on January 30, 2020.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 ANDREW J. HUBER, Attorney LAMSON DUGAN & MURRAY LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF CHAD SNOW DDS, 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 CHAD SNOW DDS, LLC. The name and address of the registered agent and office is Chad Snow DDS, 15804 Cary Cir, Omaha, Nebraska 68136. The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business. The company commenced existence on December 7, 2017 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 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 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 C&C Industries, Inc. 2. The Corporation is authorized to issue 10,000 shares of common stock having a par value of $1.00 each.

3. 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. 4. Articles of Incorporation were filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on February 3, 2020.

5. The name and address of the Incorporator is: Taylor C. Dieckman, 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska 68124.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 JERRY W. KATSKEE, Attorney K & K Law P.C., L.L.O. 12815 Franklin Street Omaha, NE 68154-3646 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION Corporation Name: K & K Law P.C., L.L.O., 12815 Franklin Street, Omaha, NE 68154-3646 Registered Office: 12815 Franklin Street, Omaha, NE, 68154-3646 Registered Office: Jerry W. Katskee Corporation shall engage in any lawful business for which a professional corporation may be formed under the Nebraska Professional Corporation Act. Authorized capital stock is $10,000.00 to be fully paid and non-assessable on issue. Perpetual existence commenced on January 10, 2020 when Articles were filed with the Secretary of State. Affairs of the corporation are to be conducted by a Board of Directors and officers authorized by the By-Laws and the Board.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 ERICKSON l SEDERSTROM, P.C., Attorneys 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF MERGER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Nox-Crete Manufacturing, Inc., a Nebraska corporation (the “Merging Corporation), and Nox-Crete, Inc., a Nebraska corporation (the “Surviving Corporation), have adopted and filed Articles of Merger with the Secretary of State, wherein the Merging Corporation will merge with and into the Surviving Corporation effective as of January 1, 2020.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020 ERICKSON l SEDERSTROM, P.C., Attorneys 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF MERGER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Nox-Crete Products Group, Inc., a Nebraska corporation (the “Merging Corporation), and Nox-Crete, Inc., a Nebraska corporation (the “Surviving Corporation), have adopted and filed Articles of Merger with the Secretary of State, wherein the Merging Corporation will merge with and into the Surviving Corporation effective as of January 1, 2020.

First publication January 31, 2020, final February 14, 2020

18

• FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • Midlands Business Journal

LEGAL NOTICES RUSSELL J. KREIKEMEIER, Attorney KREIKEMEIER LAW OFFICES 126 East Grove Street West Point, Nebraska 68788 NOTICE OF INCORPORATION Notice is hereby given of the incorporation of Shoup, Inc., with its registered office address at 222 South 15th Street, Suite 316, Omaha, Nebraska 68012 and its principal office location at 2222 North Main Street, #3104, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022. The purpose or purposes for which this corporation is formed is to own, conduct, operate, maintain and carry on the business of a retail lounge and to prepare and serve alcoholic beverages including beer, wine, liquor, cocktails, and other beverages, and to conduct all things incidental to and necessary to said activities and all related matters, including by not specifically limited to, sales and promotions thereof and including the transaction of all or any lawful business or engagement in any commercial venture permitted by the Nebraska Model Business Corporation Act, as amended, and all other applicable law. The initial authorized capital stock of the corporation is $10,000.00 and such stock shall be issued at such time and under such conditions as the Board of Directors may determine.

The Corporation commenced doing business on January 24, 2020, and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the Corporation shall be conducted by a Board of Directors and such officers as may be provided in the bylaws of the Corporation. The incorporator is Brian Shoup, 2222 North Main Street, #3104, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022.

DATED the 29th day of January, 2020 First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 SMITH SLUSKY POHREN & ROGERS LLP 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF ONE STOP LEASING, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on January 14, 2020, One Stop Leasing, LLC was organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act, with a designated office at 3339 N. 109th Plaza, Omaha, Nebraska 68164. The Company’s initial agent for service of process is Michael Schmidt, 3339 N. 109th Plaza, Omaha, Nebraska 68164.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 SMITH SLUSKY POHREN & ROGERS LLP 8712 West Dodge Road, Suite 400 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF ONE STOP CONSTRUCTION, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on January 14, 2020, One Stop Construction, LLC was organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act, with a designated office at 3339 N. 109th Plaza, Omaha, Nebraska 68164. The Company’s initial agent for service of process is Michael Schmidt, 3339 N. 109th Plaza, Omaha, Nebraska 68164.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF STEINKEMPER INVESTMENTS, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Steinkemper Investments, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska with the following registered agent and registered office: Molly Steinkemper, 1517 S. 152nd Cir., Omaha, NE 68144. Business to be transacted is any lawful business, excluding professional services. The business commenced on December 30, 2019, and is perpetual.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 K2CONCEPTS.COM, INC. 3552 S 193rd St Omaha, NE 68130 NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION OF K2CONCEPTS.COM, INC. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that K2CONCEPTS.COM, INC., a Nebraska corporation (the “Corporation”) has filed Articles of Dissolution with the Nebraska Secretary of State with an effective dissolution date of December 31, 2019. The terms of the dissolution provide for the payment of liabilities of the Corporation and the distribution of any remaining assets to the shareholders of the Corporation. Greg Krieser, President, will manage the Corporation’s affairs and distribute its assets. As of the close of business on December 31, 2019 the Corporation had no liabilities and no assets.

By: Greg Krieser, President First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 NOTICE OF AMENDMENT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Certificate of Organization of Hubb Group, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company, has been amended as follows: the limited liability company has changed its name to Enova Group, LLC. The Amended Certificate of Organization was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on January 13, 2020.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 DVORAK LAW GROUP LLC 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100 Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF AMENDMENT AND RESTATEMENT OF ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION OF VAN KIRK SAND AND GRAVEL, INC. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Articles of Incorporation of Van Kirk Sand and Gravel, Inc., a Nebraska corporation, have been amended and restated in their entirety. Included in the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation is an amendment to authorize the Corporation to issue 100,000 shares of common stock having a par value of $.10 per share.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020

NOTICE OF INCORPORATION OF FARMERS AGENTS CHARITIES OF OMAHA INC Notice is hereby given that Farmers Agents Charities of Omaha Inc, a Nebraska non-profit corporation, is organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with its registered office at 19326 Spencer St, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022. The Corporation is a public benefit corporation, which is organized exclusively for charitable purposes within the meaning of Section 509(a) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1988. The Company commenced its existence on January 8, 2020, and its duration is perpetual. Its affairs are to be conducted by the Board of Directors who shall appoint officers including a President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer.

Jennifer R. Petersen, Incorporator First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 AMANDA M. BARRON, Attorney P.O. Box 597 Fremont, Nebraska 68026 LEGAL NOTICE TO THE DEFENDANT(s), AMALIA D JOHNSON & TYRON JOHNSON You are hereby notified that Credit Bureau Services, Inc., a corporation, filed its complaint in the County Court of DOUGLAS County, Nebraska on 10/09/2019 on Case Number CI19-22993, the object and prayer of which is to recover the sum of $569.14, plus interest, attorney fees and court costs.

You are required to answer the complaint of the Plaintiff on or before 03/21/2020 or the allegations in said complaint will be taken as true and judgment entered accordingly.

CREDIT BUREAU SERVICES, INC., A CORPORATION First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 AMANDA M. BARRON, Attorney P.O. Box 597 Fremont, Nebraska 68026 LEGAL NOTICE TO THE DEFENDANT(s), TERYN BAKER You are hereby notified that Credit Bureau Services, Inc., a corporation, filed its complaint in the County Court of DOUGLAS County, Nebraska on 10/23/2019 on Case Number CI19-24073, the object and prayer of which is to recover the sum of $542.91, plus interest, attorney fees and court costs.

You are required to answer the complaint of the Plaintiff on or before 03/21/2020 or the allegations in said complaint will be taken as true and judgment entered accordingly.

CREDIT BUREAU SERVICES, INC., A CORPORATION First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 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 PWC PROPERTIES, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that PWC Properties, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 4511 South 46th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68117. 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 November 27, 2019.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 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 HIGHWAY SIGNING EQUIPMENT, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Highway Signing Equipment, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 1125 S 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The registered agent and office of the limited liability company is Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O., 1125 S 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The Certificate of Organization was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on November 27, 2019.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 RUSSELL J. KREIKEMEIER, Attorney KREIKEMEIER LAW OFFICES 126 East Grove Street West Point, Nebraska 68788 NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION OF CORPORATION Notice is hereby given of the Dissolution of Stavas Medical Imaging, PC, a Nebraska Professional Corporation, with its principal place of business at 662 North 63rd Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68138. Pursuant to the provisions of the statutes of the State of Nebraska, Stavas Medical Imaging, PC has filed Articles of Dissolution with the Secretary of State. The Articles of Dissolution contain the express will of the sole Shareholder to dissolve the Professional Corporation and to wind up the Professional Corporate business.

It is hereby agreed to by the sole Shareholder and in accordance with the Articles of Dissolution that the proceeds of any assets of the Professional Corporation shall first be paid in discharge of all Professional Corporate liabilities. Creditors of this Professional Corporation should file their claims with Joseph M. Stavas, c/o Russell J. Kreikemeier; 126 East Grove Street; West Point, Nebraska 68788.

EFFECTIVE the 5th day of November, 2019 Russell J. Kreikemeier First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF BDL PROPERTIES, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that BDL Properties, LLC (the "Company") has been has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 16624 Elm Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68130. The Registered Agent of the Company is Dale L. Botkin, 16624 Elm St., Omaha, Nebraska 68130.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020

TIEDEMAN, LYNCH, KAMPFE, McVAY & RESPELIERS, Attorneys 6910 Pacific Street, Suite 300 Omaha, Nebraska 68106-1045 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION Notice is hereby given that Robertson Enterprises, LLC, has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska with its designated office at 6910 Pacific Street, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68106. The initial registered agent is John S. Kampfe, and the registered agent’s address is 6910 Pacific Street, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68106. The general nature of the business is to engage in any lawful business for which a limited liability company may be organized. The limited liability company was formed on September 10, 2019, and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by its Members.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 BROWN & WOLFF, P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 1925 North 120th Street, One Bennington Place Omaha, Nebraska 68154 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF QUANTUM GRETNA, LLC NOTICE is hereby given that Quantum Gretna, LLC is organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The address of the designated office is 1925 North 120th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68154. The purpose of the Company shall be to have such purposes and to engage in such activities with the exception of banking and insurance 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 on the 12th day of December, 2019, and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the Company are to be conducted by its Members and/or Managers as set forth in the terms of the company’s Operating Agreement from time to time. The registered agent for the service of process is Scott Brown at 1925 North 120th Street, Omaha, Nebraska, 68154.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 CAMERON M. RIECKE, Attorney LAMSON DUGAN & MURRAY LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114 NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF CBAHA, 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 CBAHA, LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 150 18th Rd., Emerson, NE 68733. The name and address of the registered agent and office is LDM Business Services, Inc, 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The general nature of the business to be investing in Miller Veterinary Holdings, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, and any or all lawful business. The company commenced existence on November 26, 2019 and shall remain effective until Miller Veterinary Holdings dissolves and liquidates at which time CBAHA, LLC shall dissolve unless unanimous consent by the Members is given to remain in existence in perpetuity. 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 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 NICK R. TAYLOR, Attorney FITZGERALD, SCHORR, BARMETTLER & BRENNAN, P.C., L.L.O. 10050 Regency Circle, 200 Regency One Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3794 LEGAL NOTICE In the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska. PR20-152 Estate of PATRICIA V. SILVA, Deceased Notice is hereby given that on February 3rd, 2020 in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, the Registrar issued a written statement of Informal Probate of the Will of said Decedent and that Chris E. Silva, whose address is 16121 Timberlane, Omaha, Nebraska 68136, 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 7, 2020 or be forever barred.

CARROL L. MILLS Registrar First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF LAURA WIRTH SPEECH AND LANGUAGE THERAPY, LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Laura Wirth Speech and Language Therapy, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska.

The designated office of the limited liability company is 11330 Q Street, Suite 206, Omaha, NE 68137. The registered agent and office of the limited liability company is Laura P. Wirth, 11330 Q Street, Suite 206, Omaha, NE 68137. The limited liability company commenced business on January 3, 2020 and shall have a perpetual duration.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 ROBERT J. KMIECIK, Attorney STINSON LLP 1299 Farnam Street, Suite 1500 Omaha, Nebraska 68102-1818 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF Milan Laser New York, LLC Notice is hereby given that a Nebraska limited liability company named Milan Laser New York, LLC (the “Company”) was formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office of the Company is 17645 Wright Street, Ste. 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68130 and the Company’s initial agent for service of process at such address is Capitol Corporate Services, Inc..

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • LEGAL NOTICES ROBERT J. KMIECIK, Attorney STINSON LLP 1299 Farnam Street, Suite 1500 Omaha, Nebraska 68102-1818 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF Milan Laser Texas, LLC Notice is hereby given that a Nebraska limited liability company named Milan Laser Texas, LLC (the “Company”) was formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office of the Company is 17645 Wright Street, Ste. 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68130 and the Company’s initial agent for service of process at such address is Capitol Corporate Services, Inc. First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 ROBERT J. KMIECIK, Attorney STINSON LLP 1299 Farnam Street, Suite 1500 Omaha, Nebraska 68102-1818 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF Milan Laser North Carolina, LLC Notice is hereby given that a Nebraska limited liability company named Milan Laser North Carolina, LLC (the “Company”) was formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office of the Company is 17645 Wright Street, Ste. 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68130 and the Company’s initial agent for service of process at such address is Capitol Corporate Services, Inc. First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 ROBERT J. KMIECIK, Attorney STINSON LLP 1299 Farnam Street, Suite 1500 Omaha, Nebraska 68102-1818 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF Milan Laser Ohio, LLC Notice is hereby given that a Nebraska limited liability company named Milan Laser Ohio, LLC (the “Company”) was formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office of the Company is 17645 Wright Street, Ste. 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68130 and the Company’s initial agent for service of process at such address is Capitol Corporate Services, Inc. First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 ROBERT J. KMIECIK, Attorney STINSON LLP 1299 Farnam Street, Suite 1500 Omaha, Nebraska 68102-1818 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF Milan Laser Illinois, LLC Notice is hereby given that a Nebraska limited liability company named Milan Laser Illinois, LLC (the “Company”) was formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office of the Company is 17645 Wright Street, Ste. 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68130 and the Company’s initial agent for service of process at such address is Capitol Corporate Services, Inc. First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 ROBERT J. KMIECIK, Attorney STINSON LLP 1299 Farnam Street, Suite 1500 Omaha, Nebraska 68102-1818 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF Milan Laser Connecticut, LLC Notice is hereby given that a Nebraska limited liability company named Milan Laser Connecticut, LLC (the “Company”) was formed under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office of the Company is 17645 Wright Street, Ste. 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68130 and the Company’s initial agent for service of process at such address is Capitol Corporate Services, Inc. First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020 DAVID M. HOHMAN, Attorney FITZGERALD, SCHORR, BARMETTLER & BRENNAN, P.C., L.L.O., Attorneys 10050 Regency Circle, 200 Regency One Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3794 NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION OF ENVISAGE ENTERPRISES INC. Notice is hereby given that Envisage Enterprises Inc., a Nebraska corporation (the “Corporation”), has been dissolved under the laws of the State of Nebraska effective as of December 31, 2019. The Corporation has collected all of its assets and will convey and dispose of those assets as may be necessary to pay, satisfy, discharge or provide for all liabilities and obligations of the Corporation. Any assets remaining after satisfaction of all liabilities and obligations of the Corporation will be transferred and distributed to the shareholders of the Corporation in cancellation and redemption of all shares of stock of the Corporation. At the time of the dissolution, the Corporation had no assets or liabilities, other than the expenses incurred in this dissolution. Josh Malesa, President of the Corporation, is responsible for winding up and liquidating the business and affairs of the Corporation. Any creditors or claimants of the Corporation shall present a detailed claim setting forth all relevant claim information and the amount of the claim in writing to the Corporation at the following address: Envisage Enterprises Inc., 115 S. 204th Street, Elkhorn, NE 68022.

Any claim against the Corporation shall be barred unless a proceeding to enforce such claim is commenced within three years after the publication of this notice.

First publication February 7, 2020, final February 21, 2020

STATE OF NEBRASKA PAROLE BOARD HEARINGS NOTICE A total of 136 cases will be heard by the Board in February, 2020. The following case(s) sentenced in Douglas County will be seen by the Board of Parole.

February 18, 2020 – 8:30 a.m.

Lincoln Correctional Center, Lincoln, Nebraska Hanson, Jacob 87756 Arson 1st Degree, Aslt Peac Ofcr/DCS Emp 2nd Dgr, Assault 2nd Degree Johnston, Gram 88180 Manu/Dist/Del/Disp or Poss W/I Long, James 210619 Manu/Dist/Del/Disp or Poss W/I Martinez, Marlon 210705 Sexual Assault 1st Degree Garcia-Hernandez, Emmanuel 210544 Manu/Dist/Del/Disp or Poss W/I February 19, 2020 – 9:30 a.m.

Nebraska Correctional Center for Women, York, Nebraska Eason, Shantelle 98985 Aslt Peac Ofcr/DCS Emp 3d Dgr, Theft by Deception February 20, 2020 – 8:30 a.m.

Nebraska State Penitentiary, Lincoln, Nebraska Vawser, Edward 81374 Robbery Jackson, Travis 85169 Poss Deadly Weap by Felon/Fug, Robbery Dixon, Michael 88115 Aslt Peac Ofcr/DCS Emp 3rd Dgr, Robbery Poff, Timothy 89048 Manu/Dist/Del/Disp or Poss W/I Battles, Matthew 89090 Poss Deadly Weap by Felon/Fug February 21, 2020 – 8:30 a.m.

Community Correctional Center - Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska Goss, Con 69122 Assault 2nd Degree Bridgeford, Brandon 74614 Theft by Receiving Stolen Prop (2 counts), Theft by Unlwfl Taking or Disp Inman, Robert 84737 Manslaughter Collier, Antonio 87434 Burglary Henderson, Darrell 210179 Assault 1st Degree Costello, Ronald 210562 Pos Cntrl Sub Except Marijuana, Viol of Financial Trans Device Dillard, Dewayne 89274 Poss Deadly Weap by Felon/Fug February 24, 2020 – 9:30 a.m.

Tecumseh State Correctional Institution, Tecumseh, Nebraska Craig, Brandon 86600 Theft by Receiving Stolen Prop, Theft By Unlwfl Taking or Disp, Viol of Financial Trans Device February 26, 2020 – 8:30 a.m.

Community Correctional Center - Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska Tibbs, Charles 61532 Assault 1st Degree, Burglary (2 counts),Poss Deadly Weap by Felon/Fug, Theft by Receiving Stolen Prop, Theft by Unlwfl Taking or Disp Azpeitia, Juan 82759 Burglary (2 counts), Theft by Receiving Stolen Prop Valentine, Allen 83960 Driving While Intoxicated Gee, Brandon 87232 Domestic Assault, Poss Deadly Weap by Felon/ Fug Smith, Corey 87693 Forgery 1st Degree, Operate Motor Veh/Avoid Arrest (2 counts), Theft by Receiving Stolen Prop (2 counts) Rumph, Jarvis 89181 Poss Deadly Weap by Felon/Fug Martinez, Miguel 82885 Poss Deadly Weap by Felon/Fug,Resisting Arrest, Theft by Receiving Stolen Prop Collins, Steven 86316 Poss Deadly Weap by Felon/Fug Wagner, David 86094 Theft by Receiving Stolen Prop (2 counts) February 27, 2020 – 8:30 a.m.

Community Correctional Center - Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska Alford, Cletus 72767 Assault 2nd Degree, Poss Deadly Weap by Felon/ Fug, Use Deadly Weap to Commit Fel, Visl Depict Sexl Explicit Cond Jackson, Quentin 73521 Assault 2nd Degree, Use Deadly Weap to Commit Fel Nelson, Shamar 81916 Manu/Dist/Del/Disp or Poss W/I, Poss Deadly Weap by Felon/Fug Stafford, Michael 83051 Theft by Unlwfl Taking or Disp (2 counts) Ryan, Kevin 83644 Assault 2nd Degree Spencer, Marcus 85731 Robbery Ginn, Patrick 86493 Theft by Receiving Stolen Prop (2 counts), Theft

by Unlwfl Taking or Disp Davis, Guy 87602 Manu/Dist/Del/Disp or Poss W/I, Tax Violation Kildow, Shane 87957 Aslt Peac Ofcr/DCS Emp 1st Dgr, Pos Firearm

by Fugitive/Felon, Theft by Receiving Stolen Prop Benscoter, Shane 88213 Manu/Dist/Del/Disp or Poss W/I Hill, Aaron 88815 Driving While Intoxicated Muhleka, Leonard 75732 Assault 1st Degree February 28, 2020 – 8:30 a.m.

Omaha Correctional Center, Omaha, Nebraska Keever, James 85362 Pos Cntrl Sub Except Marijuana, Theft by Receiving Stolen Prop McCroy, Andrew 87449 Forgery 2nd Degree (2 counts) Lupino, Donald 87628 Poss Deadly Weap by Felon/Fug, Robbery Gadson, Andra 77718 Sexual Assault 1st Degree ROSALYN COTTON, CHAIR NEBRASKA BOARD OF PAROLE February 7, 2020

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New homes in the US are shrinking as builders try to contain costs

by Steve Brown

Builders are putting the squeeze on new homes to lower costs.

The average new home size across the country is declining in response to higher house price tags and more buyers wanting to downsize.

But the typical new home still has plenty of room at about 2,500 square feet last year.

“It peaked at 2,689 square feet in the 2016,” said Rose Quint, a top researcher with the National Association of Home Builders. “In the last four years we have seen the average size of new homes decline every year.

“It’s the smallest house size we have put in the ground since the year 2011 in this country,” Quint said at the building industry’s annual show last weekend in Las Vegas.

Homes being built in the U.S. are Real Estate about the same size as what builders were providing before the Great Recession.

But the price tags are much higher.

In 2005 the median price of new houses in Dallas-Fort Worth was about $176,000. Now a mid-priced single-family home in the area costs around $350,000.

With similar price increases in most states, builders are worried they are pricing buyers out of many markets.

So builders are trimming sizes and reducing frills to rein in costs.

Dallas-Fort Worth new home sizes are still ahead of the national average.

In 2019 the average new home sold in North Texas was 2,774 square foot, according to housing analyst Metrostudy Inc. D-FW home sizes have fallen from a record 2,910 square feet average in 2015.

One way for builders hold down costs is to downsize the number of bedrooms. Less than 45% of homes built nationally in 2019 had four or more bedrooms, according to the National Association of Home Builders’ latest studies.

“It’s been edging down in the years since” the recession, Quint said. “It’s the smallest share since the year 2012.”

Big garages are also starting to shrink in number of stalls and overall size.

“Builders are shifting more and more toward the entry level homes in what they produce,” Quint said. “They are trying to respond to the affordability crisis we have had in the country in the last few years.”

Consumers are also doing their part, turning their noses up at some over-the-top home features.

You’ll find fewer of those grand two-story entries and family rooms in new houses.

“A lot of consumers consider those high spaces difficult to heat and cool so builders are shying away from them,” Quint said.

About 12% of first-time buyers say they want no parking at all.

“What does that tell us—they have no cars,” Quint said.

Buyers still have their lists of must-haves in a new house.

Some of their make-or-break home features include laundry rooms, hardwood floors, energy saving windows and celling fans.

Topping the features that turn them off are elevators, wine cellars, pet washing stations and rooftop plantings.

“People are not going to be willing to pay for these things for the most part,” Quint said. “Nobody wants a roof covered by plants.”

More than 60% of buyers say they want to purchase in the suburbs.

Less that 20% — despite what you hear – say they want to live in the center city.

“Fifty-nine percent of first timers want to buy that home in the suburbs,” Quint said. “Only 15% want the central city.”

More than three-fourths of buyers say they want a traditional single-family home—not a townhouse or condo.

Almost 80% of potential buyers polled said they are looking for open concept kitchen and living areas, instead of the compartmentalized floor plans many of the grew up with. ©2020 The Dallas Morning News Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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• FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • Midlands Business Journal

REGIONAL LANDSCAPES

Briefs…

SpartanNash’s Fast Lane has added GPS location technology to create a seamless online grocery shopping and curbside pickup experience. The technology is available at Family Fare, Forest Hills Foods, VG’s and Dan’s Supermarket and allows Fast Lane shoppers to calculate a customer’s arrival time for curbside pickup orders. Once a customer has placed their Fast Lane curbside pickup order, they will be alerted when their order is ready. Customers can then share their location through mobile apps or a web browser letting their Fast Lane shopper know they are on their way to the store, so their order can be prepared and delivered to their vehicle when they pull up.

Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies has selected CLARA analytics, a provider of artificial intelligence technology in the commercial insurance industry, in order to advance its workers’ compensation claims operations. BHHC will integrate the full suite of CLARA products, including CLARA providers, CLARA litigation and CLARA claims as well as its popular Medicare SetAside solution.

Gateway Mortgage Group, a division of Gateway First Bank, presented a check to Folds of Honor for $12,215 at Patriarch Distillers. Gateway is committed to donating $5 for every mortgage loan closed through its retail locations to Folds of Honor to be used for educational scholarships to the families of military men and women who have fallen or been disabled while on active duty in the United States armed forces. In 2019, Gateway First originated more than $5.5 billion in mortgage loans putting the company on pace to increase from 2018.

Prime Capital Investment Advisors, LLC has named Matthew Eickman as national retirement practice leader for its Qualified Plan Advisors brand. Eickman is an ERISA attorney who currently serves as both the director of ERISA Services for Qualified Plan Advisors, and the managing director of PCIA’s Omaha operations. He provides fiduciary training, Investment Policy Statement oversight and design, and vendor benchmarking. He is also a member of the firm’s Investment Advisory Committee,

serves as co-chair of the Defined Contribution Plan Subcommittee for the American Bar Association’s Tax Section, and holds his FINRA Series 7 and 66 registrations.

Omaha Public Power District board of directors elected new officers for 2020. Craig Moody, who represents Subdivision 5, will serve as the board chair. Rick Yoder, who represents Subdivision 4, will serve as vice chair.

Amanda Bogner, who represents Subdivision 1, will be the board’s treasurer for 2020. Eric Williams, who represents Subdivision 6, will serve as secretary.

Kubat Pharmacy has opened a brand new division, the Mobility Center. The new showroom and service location at 4920 Center Street specializes in complex rehabilitative power wheelchairs and other high-quality mobility products. Complex wheelchairs are individually configured and require a clinical team to provide an evaluation and fitting. Complex rehab has a host of benefits allowing the end user to live a more active and independent life.

Carrie Svendsen has been named the Human Resource Association of the Midlands’ 2020 board president and she intends to grow the organization. Svendsen, the human resources director for the City of Papillion, has been a member of the organization for the past 12 years and has served as board secretary and on the Government Affairs Committee. Development and volunteer opportunities plus a newly launched website with helpful features for members will be key to that growth.

The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce and Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry backed two bills designed to help individuals transition from multiple part-time jobs into full-time employment. The bills seek to minimize the “cliff effect” of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Nebraska’s childcare subsidy. Instead of abruptly ending families’ participation in these programs as soon as earnings exceed federal poverty eligibility requirements, they offer a step program as the need for benefits diminishes.

Orion Advisor Solutions, a provider of financial adviser technology and investment

solutions, is celebrating reaching $1 trillion in assets under administration, powering more than 2,000 advisory firms’ independence and growth. Orion reaches this milestone on its 21st year in business after rising from its roots in 1999, when founder and CEO Eric Clarke made it his mission to develop the best portfolio management software on the market after the hunt for an adequate system for his growing RIA turned up empty.

Author and co-founder of the international dance movement Daybreaker, Radha Agrawal, along with Jon Dorenbos, bestselling author of “Life is Magic,” will keynote the 2020 YP Summit on March 6 at CHI Health Center in Omaha. Agrawal, named one of MTV’s “eight women who will change the world,” is an inventor and investor. In 2018, she published, “Belong,” a book critics call “inspiring and interactive” offering a “blueprint” for building community. Magician and author Dorenbos’ was raised by his aunt following his father’s murder of his mother in 1992. Registration for the event is open.

Health care notes…

A new residency program in the University of Nebraska Medical Center Department of Dermatology has been approved by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education and will welcome its first class of three residents in July. The program is the first residency program to train dermatologists in Nebraska in almost 40 years. A joint UNMC-Creighton dermatology residency was in place from 1975-1983. Under the leadership of chair and program director Ashley Wysong, M.D., the program will begin interviewing potential candidates in the coming months. Dermatology residents will complete a one-year internship prior to beginning their training in dermatology.

Darland Construction completed the CHI Health Valley View Clinic in Council Bluffs, Iowa. The 38,844-square-foot clinic features 56 exam rooms, focusing on primary care with specialties including radiology, ultrasound, pharmacy, behavioral health and physical therapy. The new clinic is part of the organization’s ongoing mission to

provide affordable, accessible, high-quality care for all. Darland delivered the building on time and under budget despite widespread, historic flooding in the area during construction. CHI Health, NexCore Group and Darland are constructing a nearly identical clinic in Millard, scheduled to open spring 2020.

Education notes…

The University of Nebraska Medical Center named Sheritta Strong, M.D., interim director of inclusion. An Omaha native and an 11-year faculty member in the department of psychiatry, Strong is an adult psychiatrist with primary interests in the treatment of chronic and persistent mental illness. She is co-director of medical student education for the department of psychiatry, coordinating all aspects of pre-clinical psychiatry training at UNMC. Strong is the recipient of the Women in Medicine Award from the National Coalition of Negro Women, the UNMC Alumni Early Career Achievement Award, and the American Psychiatric Association’s Nancy C.A. Roeske, M.D. Award.

Corn and wheat growers across Nebraska will be able to gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies that will allow them to more precisely identify the amount of nitrogen fertilizer their crops need, while preventing excess nitrates from ending up in the state’s water supply. This opportunity comes in the form of a $1.2 million On-Farm Conservation Innovation Trials grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resource Conservation Service. The grant was awarded to 14 extension educators and four extension specialists working with Nebraska Extension’s On-Farm Research Network.

The Southeast Community College board of governors unanimously appointed Tim Cerveny of Wilber to fill the vacant atlarge seat on the board. Cerveny graduated from SCC in December 1991 with a degree in electromechanical technology. His term ends in mid-January 2021. The board’s at-large seat was vacated last November upon the death of Steven Ottmann. Cerveny, manager of resources and transmission at NMPP Energy in Lincoln, grew up on a farm outside of Clatonia Continued on next page.

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 7, 2020 •

21

REGIONAL LANDSCAPES Continued from preceding page. and worked as a welder in high school.

Activities of nonprofits…

Omaha Home for the Boys announced the election of Rebecca Atkins to its board of directors. Atkins is a career adviser in the College of Business Administration at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. She received a B.S. and M.P.A. degrees from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Bellevue University, respectively. Atkins is also a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber’s Young Professionals Council where she serves at the talent development chair. She has also volunteered as a mentor through Big Brothers Big Sisters and Bellevue Public Schools.

Cooper Foundation long-time board member Jane Renner Hood is retiring. Hood served for 25 years, having been elected to the board in 1994. She was the third woman elected to the Cooper board, and the first board member who was a nonprofit executive. Hood was the executive director of the Nebraska Humanities Council when she joined the Cooper board and she led the organization for 23 years until 2010. Grants totaling $10,000 were made by the Cooper board to honor her service: $2,500 each to Doane University, Humanities Nebraska, Lincoln Literacy, and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment.

Arts and events…

Best Care EAP (Employee Assistance Program) will host its first of four HR Insight talk series on Feb. 11 from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.

This brand new quarterly series will allow HR professionals the opportunity to discuss candidly ways to combat both major and minor issues HR professionals are faced with on a daily basis. This session will allow participants the opportunity to be a part of an insightful round table discussion on the burning issues keeping them, and their colleagues up at night. To register for the workshop, contact (402) 354-8000/EAP@ BestCareEAP.org. Learn more about Best Care EAP at www.bestcareeap.org.

The Midlands Humane Society is offering its signature Wag-A-Grams, available for purchase through Feb. 11. A Wag-A-Gram in-

cludes the personal delivery of a hand-written Valentine’s Day Card, a frosted sugar cookie and a long-stemmed rose — all delivered by a “Canine Cupid.” Wag-A-Grams can be sent to a home or business in the Council Bluffs/Omaha area on Feb. 13 or 14. Each Wag-A-Gram costs $45. New this year, MHS is offering a Corporate Wag-A-Gram option, where it will deliver Valentine treats along with a special “Paws” play date with ambassador dogs. Accommodations can be made for companies ranging from 10 to 50 employees.

Inspired by Joslyn Art Museum’s recent acquisition of seventeenth-century Dutch masterpiece “Still Life of Flowers in a Glass Vase” by Maria van Oosterwyck, an event on Feb. 13 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. called Music & Masterpieces: Women and Artists of the Baroque will highlight and celebrate the work of women painters and composers in the baroque era of art and music. Featuring a gallery conversation with Joslyn’s Associate Curator of European Art Taylor J. Acosta, Ph.D., and Opera Omaha Head of Music Sean Kelly, followed by a performance by the Holland Community Opera Fellows. The event will be held at Joslyn Art Museum.

The Audubon Society of Omaha and Fontenelle Forest Raptor Recovery are hosting a viewing of “Fragments,” a documentary by Alex Wiles on the epidemic of lead poisoning in raptors. A panel discussion including several local experts will follow. A raptor expert will have two rehabilitated bald eagles on site. The event, on Feb. 13 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Fontenelle Forest Nature Center, is free and open to the public.

OpenSky Policy Institute will provide an update about the state tax and budget debate at a fiscal policy forum on Feb. 14 at The Living Room in the Mastercraft Building. The forum — which is sponsored by the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands — will run from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and is open to the public. At the forum, OpenSky will discuss what is happening in our state fiscal debate. OpenSky will help attendees understand what the tax and budget debate means for our state and for Nebraska’s nonprofits.

Registration is online.

The Alternative Growers Group is hosting the 7th Annual Small Acreage Conference with concurrent talks by local agriculture producers, cooperative extension specialists, and state wide sustainable agriculture experts. Matt and Rod Fritz of Stock Seed Company in Murdock, Nebraska will serve as the keynote speakers in prairie restoration. The conference includes informational and vendor booths and food concessions. The conference is at the Blair Public Library on Feb. 15 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Big Garden, City Sprouts, Omaha

Public Library, and Big Muddy Urban Farm are hosting the 6th Annual Seed Share.

Neighbors sharing seeds is a time-honored tradition that strengthens local food security and can protect local biodiversity. There will be empty seed packets and assistance available. In addition to the seed share tables there will be free handouts on a variety of gardening topics, art projects for kids, live music by Kiwi, healthy drinks & snacks, and an announcement of the 2020 Seed of the Year.

The event is on Feb. 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Gifford Park Elementary School.

MEETINGS AND SEMINARS Tuesday, Feb. 11 Kevin Zoz, relationship manager with LinkedIn, will share expertise on how to build brand awareness, attract followers, drive website traffic and more using LinkedIn Pages from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. This event, organized by the Public Relations Society of America Nebraska Chapter, will be held at Anthony’s Steakhouse, 7220 F Street in Omaha. Tickets can be purchased online at prsanebraska.org.

Lindy Fields, Ph.D., a clinical neuropsychologist and assistant professor in the department of neurological sciences at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, will discuss cognitive function in former football players at the Omaha Science Café at 7 p.m. at the Slowdown. Her primary areas of clinical and research interests include sports-related concussion, traumatic brain injury, memory, aging and dementia. Science Cafés involve a face-to-face conversation with a scientist about current science topics.

They are open to everyone (21 and older).

Steve Bogue and Ruth Horvatich of McGrath North will keynote the Human Resource Association of the Midlands’ February program where they will give an overview of issues, trends, legislation, regulations and court decisions employers need to be aware of in 2020. Bogue and Horvatich will survey recent decisions by the federal courts on the Family and Medical Leave Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and Titles III and VII of the Civil Rights Act

of 1964. They will also provide an analysis of recent decisions by the National Labor Relations Board and the impact of those decisions. Tickets can be purchased online until Feb. 9.

Wednesday, Feb. 12 The American Marketing Association Omaha Chapter is hosting its February 2020 Power Lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Cunningham’s at 10904 West Dodge Road.

Panel experts include Ellie Chater, director of client services at MediaSpark LLC; Chris Gorman, director of sports and entertrainment at Hurrdat, Hail Varsity and The Railyard Entertainment District; Angie Kubicek, chief marketing officer at Firespring; and Lyn Wineman, president and chief strategist at KidGlov.

Friday, Feb. 14 The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Department of Entomology is hosting a seminar featuring Bridget Gross. Gross will be presenting on “Beekeeping in different cultures.” Gross is advised by Drs. Doug Golick and Judy Wu Smart.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is hosting an Agronomy & Horticulture Seminar featuring Tessa Durham Brooks. Brooks, associate professor of biology at Doane University, presents “Connecting Root Exudate Variation in Corn to Microbial Recruitment and Growth.” Durham Brooks will highlight metabolomics and image-based approaches her lab and collaborators are using to begin to decipher these chemical messages.

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• FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • Midlands Business Journal

Traveling nurses continue to be in high demand across country

by Gabby Christenen

The growing need for traveling nurses is immense across the United States, particularly in remote, rural and critical access hospitals. Local staffing firms say this trend is expected to continue into the next decade and beyond, promising a bright future for the industry.

Joshua Johnston, vice president/COO of LRS Healthcare, said remote or rural facilities face competition from larger hospitals, multi-hospital organizations and metro areas with multiple nursing schools or teaching programs.

Due to this competition, Johnston said these facilities are unable to hire enough permanent staff members to meet census.

“The appeal for any RN to take a temporary nursing position is flexibility, travel and income potential,” he said. “While many of these rural and remote hospitals identify their need for contract staff, they also understand the allure of traveling to remote locations. For example, a cold weather state in the middle of winter is going to be financially driven. The appeal for the hospital is cost savings in terms of onboarding, pre-employment, marketing and time to hire. Not to mention increases in staff and caregiver satisfaction, and increases in population health.”

Brian Wilke, CEO of Titan Medical Group, said patient care is the No. 1 priority and travel nurses and allied health care professionals play a vital role in keeping hospitals adequately staffed to care for their patients.

“Rural areas can be especially challenging,” Wilke said. “Small towns struggle to bring in health care professionals because many nurses are looking for the amenities and opportunities a bigger city offers. This is a good example of where we come in. We can bring in temporary help to care for their

patients while they work to resolve their needs long term.”

Typically, he said, assignments are 13-weeks in length and the nurse gets to pick the destination.

“We are continuing to see an increase in the number of open positions for travel nurses as well as an increase in the number of candidates looking to travel, and it’s not expected to slow down any time soon,” Wilke said.

Johnston Right now, Rebecca Jones, CEO of Sharp Medical Staffing, said hospitals are in shortages with health care professionals and the future shows a decline in staff in specialized areas, such as cath lab and electrophysiology (EP).

Furthermore, Jones said the need is

growing each year for qualified traveling professionals in the cath lab, EP and interventional radiology (IR) staffing areas.

“Unfortunately, many remote hospitals do not have a cardiac cath lab,” she said.

“Therefore, if you have a heart attack or stroke you must be transported to the nearest hospital equipped to handle these life threatening situations.”

For this reason, Jones said it’s exWilke tremely important for all facilities to look into starting a cath lab or EP program.

Tracey Duke, division manager at Cariant Health Partners, said the demand for nurses continues for a number of reasons, including the physically demanding aspect

of the job, the high burnout rate and the fact that many nurses don’t stay on the clinical side, but instead move on to management or other positions.

Baby boomers are also getting older, which she said means there are more people in the health care system so more nurses are needed.

According to Duke, the pay for temporary nursing positions is on average 25% more than in permanent positions, making it an appealing option.

Additionally, she said a nurse who is at a location for 13 weeks rarely has to deal with the politics of the facility and any other work-related drama, which can be another big draw for some.

“The future always looks bright in this industry,” Duke said. “There will continue to be many needs. We will continue to see more health care facilities using vendor management system (VMS) models to consolidate their hiring.”

Holiday sales were up, but Pier 1, Papyrus and Express are closing stores

by Lauren Zumbach and Corilyn Shropshire

The 10,800 stores closed by retailers last year wasn’t enough: just one month into 2020, they have announced plans to close 1,000 more.

Retail “It’s sad, there are a lot of things closing,” said Patti Maher, 57, of Orland Park, Ill., browsing liquidation sales at Papyrus’s Water Tower Place store in Chicago on Wednesday. The greeting card chain is closing all 254 stores after seeking bankruptcy protection in mid-January.

Maher blamed shoppers’ growing reliance on Amazon, saying she still prefers shopping in stores.

“I try to support the little guys, not just big companies,” she said.

The news looks grim for bricks-and-mortar stores. But industry experts say it’s more of an evolution than a “retail apocalypse,” and Amazon and Walmart aren’t the only culprits.

Consumers are still spending: Shoppers shelled out $730.2 billion during the 2019 holiday season, according to the National Retail Federation. That’s up 4.1% compared with the same period in 2018. About $167.8 billion of that was spent online, where sales rose 14.6%.

Amid all the closures, retailers have announced plans to open 1,718 stores this year, according to Coresight Research.

Still, with more competition than ever for those dollars, retailers that failed to keep up with changes in the way customers shop or opened too many stores will continue to shrink, industry experts said.

Part of the problem is the U.S. has more stores than it needs, given the popularity of online shopping, said Craig Johnson, president of retail consulting firm Customer Growth Partners.

“There are too many retail square feet chasing too few customer square feet,” Johnson said.

Home furnishings retailer Pier 1 Imports led the way among retailers that announced store closures in January, with up to 450 locations affected, or about half its stores.

Consumer spending on home furnishings has been strong. But that’s attracted a lot of new rivals, like online furniture seller Wayfair, HomeGoods and brands doing better with younger consumers, like West Elm, he said.

Bed Bath & Beyond, which said in late January it has closed or plans to close 40 stores, is another home chain getting its “clock cleaned

by Amazon and Wayfair,” Johnson said.

There aren’t many items customers can find at Bed Bath & Beyond that they can’t get at other chains, he said.

Mara Glad, who was recently checking out a store closing sale at Pier 1 in Chicago’s Goose Island neighborhood, said she likes the retailer but rarely makes a special trip, instead turning to Amazon and Wayfair.

As the parent of a 4-year-old and 2-yearold, “it’s just easier,” said Glad, 38, of Chicago.

She’s not alone, said Candace Corlett, President of WSL Strategic Retail. About 40% of consumers WSL surveyed said they aren’t shopping in stores as frequently as they used to.

Instead, they’re choosing to spend money on things that make life easier, whether that means outsourcing errands to services like Instacart or enjoying experiences like dining out or a facial and massage, Corlett said.

“The goal is to create calm,” she said.

Many of the retailers closing shop in recent years have been department stores and specialty apparel retailers found at the mall.

Express said in January it would close 31 stores this year and 35 more next year. Macy’s has invested in upgrading its stronger stores but said this year it would close 28, and J.C. Penney is closing six.

That’s on top of previously announced closures at chains like Sears, which said last year it plans to close 96 Sears and Kmart stores Continued on page 24.

Local Only in startups

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 7, 2020 •

23

Health Nebraska Insurance

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

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Legacy businesses • Area attractions • Mom and pops Corporations that got their start in Nebraska • Greater Omaha work ethic

Industry overview • Current legislative issues • Controlling costs Health plan options • Preventative care • Payment options

Issue Date: February 14 • Ad Deadline: February 6

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A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands Business Journal

A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands Business Journal

Engineering Lincoln Real Estate Profession Topics may include:

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Engineering Overview • Greater Omaha, Sarpy, Lincoln and Council Bluffs area projects E-Week • Adoption of new tech • Engineering profession/careers/licensing Infrastructure • Engineering in the energy sector • Importance of safety Project types in demand/trends in design

Commercial/Office/Industrial Space Market Overviews • Retail space update Residential market overview • Building renovations • Workspace design Lincoln and Omaha MLS • Mortgage trends/refinancing

Issue Date: February 21 • Ad Deadline: February 13

Issue Date: February 21 • Ad Deadline: February 13

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• FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • Midlands Business Journal

Helpful resources abound in Omaha market for new entrepreneurs

by Dwain Hebda

Whether a new business venture deals in food, art or virtually any other field of endeavor, there’s a program to assist entrepreneurs in getting it off the ground. Organizations large and small are increasingly offering these programs to help people attain self-sufficiency as well as realize the dream of business ownership.

No More Empty Pots, for example, just rolled out a Food Incubator Program in January to help aspiring food entrepreneurs learn the ropes.

“With so much competition in the food industry, it can be a hard market to find success,” said Britney Hansen, manager of the program. “The Food Incubator Program is a four-month program that helps early-stage food entrepreneurs develop their business through workshops, networking events and other opportunities, including an investors pitch.”

Hansen said in addition to giving food entrepreneurs access to a commercial kitchen, the program also helps them avoid common mistakes.

“The biggest challenge I see entrepreneurs facing is trying to do too much right off the bat,” she said. “Rolling out a vast menu with a variety of cuisines or jumping straight into purchasing space for a restaurant without a practical concept go hand-in-hand with the usual challenges of building and pricing a profitable menu and understanding general business finances.

“The incubator is intended to help entrepreneurs avoid these common mistakes by offering one-on-one guidance and workshops that cover topics such as menu planning and pricing, ordering and inventory, financial management, marketing concept development, and much more.”

Amplify Arts offers similar resources for artist-entrepreneurs, said Andy Saladino, executive director.

“Artists are small businesses and Amplify works to bridge the gap between collegiate education and the real world by providing $50,000 in grants, education, and opportunities to grow their network and patron base,” he said. “This comes in the form of direct financial support, like our

Artist Support Grants, practical quarterly information sessions, and one-on-one assistance where artists reach out for advice or guidance.”

Saladino said the organization’s program helps overcome deficiencies in the community that can impede an artist’s commercial success.

“The Omaha metro has a strong arts sector, but it Saladino isn’t built for artist success,” he said. “The biggest issue is access to infrastructure like rehearsal, performance or studio space and access to funding for ambitious projects. “We’re working on solutions of how to address

these infrastructure needs. The arts define the identity of major cities, but you cannot have a strong arts community without strong artists. We’re looking to make Omaha the next big Midwest city for the arts.”

Catholic Charities Omaha takes a broader approach to entrepreneur assistance, said Rita Hamele, director of marketing and comHamele munication.

“Catholic Charities has a microbusiness and asset development program. It offers a variety of services targeted to entrepreneurs who want to start their own business and/ or small business owners seeking develop-

ment and growth opportunities,” she said.

“We also have an array of classes that are offered several days a week over a six- to nine-week course. Other support includes technical assistance, continuous learning and networking. We also offer microloans for up to $5,000 for anyone who completes the program.”

Hamele said most classes are currently offered through the Juan Diego Center in south Omaha but the organization was looking to expand its reach into other areas. She said the goal was not only to serve the entrepreneur, but also the wider community.

“Our end goal is for our students to provide a needed service to the community and at the same time provide for their families,” she said. “If these businesses are successful, then not only does the entrepreneur benefit, but so does the community.”

Continued from page 22. in February, and Gap, which has said it would close 230 stores over the next two years.

All those announcements add up to more than 1,000 stores slated to close, according to real estate research firm CoStar.

“You have a perfect storm where the (retail) landscape changed at the same time a lot of apparel retailers found themselves oversupplied and in too-big spaces,” said Brandon Svec, a CoStar consultant.

Closing or downsizing stores can help retailers get to a more sustainable size. But some still struggle to give shoppers reasons to come back, whether that’s value, convenience or products and experiences they can’t find elsewhere, analysts said.

Department stores used to be a destination because they offered a wide range of goods in one place, but they’ve been losing customers as discount and off-price retailers and specialty stores have expanded, said David Swartz, an analyst in the consumer sector at Morningstar.

T.J. Maxx, Marshalls and Ross, for instance, added 24, 34 and 90 stores in the U.S., respectively, during the 12 months ending Nov. 2. Activewear brand Lululemon added 19 U.S. stores during the same period.

“The retailers doing better are the ones giv-

ing people a reason to go into stores,” he said.

There’s also the challenge of keeping up with shoppers’ ever-shifting tastes and values.

Express, for instance, used to be a destination for “going out, party” apparel, but shoppers are now gravitating to more casual looks, Johnson said.

Once wardrobe must-haves, Gap and J. Crew also have struggled to keep consumers paying attention, though J. Crew’s Madewell brand has fared better. Even Forever 21, a one-time darling of the “fast fashion” trend, is gasping for air. The company filed for bankruptcy in October and said it would shutter 200 stores, including its now-closed Michigan Avenue and State Street locations in downtown Chicago.

“When the consumers think (certain stores and brands) are hot, it’s hard to maintain that,” said David Weiss, a partner at Chicago-based consulting firm McMillanDoolittle.

Cultural changes matter, too, experts say. Lingerie brand Victoria’s Secret closed 53 stores last year and canceled its annual televised fashion show, which has generated controversy in recent years for the way it portrayed women. The show was an important part of building the brand, but “we’re figuring out how to advance the positioning

of the brand and best communicate that to customers,” Stuart Burgdoerfer, chief financial officer of Victoria’s Secret parent company L Brands, said during a call with analysts in November.

Meanwhile, competitor Aerie for American Eagle — with ads that include women of various shapes, sizes, colors and abilities — is growing as it capitalizes on the #MeToo zeitgeist. Sales at Aerie stores open at least a year were up 20% in the most recent quarter, the brand’s 20th consecutive quarter of growth, according to parent company American Eagle Outfitters.

“Body positivity is popping out everywhere and Aerie is the front-runner,” Weiss said.

Papyrus, too, missed the mark by failing to keep in touch with consumers, said WSL/ Strategic Retail’s Corlett. As card prices went up, consumers lost interest, she said.

“Retail stores have to really stay in touch with people — they have to acknowledge the shifting social values,” she said. “The customer mindset is ‘If it doesn’t apply to me,’ you’re already disappointing them.” ©2020 Chicago Tribune Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Holiday sales were up, but Pier 1, Papyrus and Express are closing stores

Hotels & Tourism

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 7, 2020 •

25

A section prepared by the staff of the Midlands Business Journal • February 7, 2020

Donna Dutcher, owner of Celebrate Travel.

Omaha tourism on the rise in 2020

by Gabby Christensen Omaha area tourism has seen growth in recent years, with visitor counts expected to increase again this year with help from various events and attractions.

Josh Todd, executive director of Omaha

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Sports Commission, said the U.S. Olympic Swim Trials will aid in this endeavor.

“2016 set numerous sporting event records for Omaha including economic impact and hotel room night stays,” Todd said. “We are on pace to break, actually shatter, all those numbers in 2020. Not only do we expect 1,500-plus swimmers and their thousands of followers, coaches, Todd teammates, family, friends and fans but hundreds of out of state media, staff, volunteers and crew that will be here for almost two weeks.”

To date, he said there are over 29,000 hotel room nights booked and 97% of tickets have been sold, with over 90% sales coming from out of state.

“In 2016, the Swim Trials left a $74 million economic impact in the Omaha metro in its wake and I wouldn’t be surprised if we approached $100 million in 2020,” Todd said.

“Add in the eight nights of live prime-time TV on NBC Sports and the priceless exposure Omaha receives not just during the Trials, but in the following swimming coverage during the Olympics, it is an unprecedented event for a city of our size.”

He said this event is possible due to fans,

supportive residents of Omaha, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee and USA Swimming, Visit Omaha, city of Omaha, Douglas County, State of Nebraska and Omaha Sports Commission partners and donors.

“This event is the epitome of our mission, ‘Enriching Omaha Through Sport,’” Todd said.

Donna Dutcher, owner of Celebrate Travel, said travel for people in the Midwest has certainly picked up recently, too.

“People are looking for experiences they haven’t had before and wanting to travel to new places,” Dutcher said. “Adventure travel has become very popular. Vacations that include opportunities for biking, hiking, and water sports are in high demand.”

Currently, another trend involves friends and family traveling together in groups.

“Celebrate Travel is often able to offer freebies and incentives for those traveling in groups and the group leaders,” she said.

This year, Keith Backsen, executive director of Visit Omaha, said the city will see a variety of events happening, including the American Bus Association’s (ABA) Marketplace 2020, the largest gathering of motorcoach group travel and tourism professionals in North America.

“This four-day event took place in January with 3,200 attendees, utilized 15 different hotels throughout the city for a total of 7,602 room nights,” Backsen said. “This event brought about $7 million to our local economy.”

I n F e b r u a r y, Backsen said Asics Presidents’ Day Volleyball Classic tournament will bring Backsen about 480 youth volleyball teams, while another 12,000 athletes and their fans will attend Nebraska State Wrestling Championship, all happening at CHI Health Center Arena.

“These events, along with several others happening during the first quarter, a time when we typically have fewer visitors, will bring more than $31 million of economic impact to the city,” he said.

Backsen said Omaha had 13.1 million visitors in 2018, a 6% increase over 2016.

“Visitor spending also increased $80 million in two years,” Backsen said. “That money is being spent at our local hotels, restaurants, retail shops and attractions, which in turn creates jobs for our family, friends and neighbors.

“Omaha continues to grow and hotel

developers are noticing the evolution. Currently, there are more than 15,000 hotel rooms in the Omaha metro area. In the next 12 months, another 1,000 rooms will be added, including new boutique hotels, Autograph Collection by the Marriott, Curio Collection

by Hilton and the restoration and reopening of the historic hotel in Blackstone known as The Cottonwood.”

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• FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • Midlands Business Journal

In the Spotlight Paid Content

EDUCATION

LEGAL SERVICES

LEGAL SERVICES

LEGAL SERVICES

Hired

Named

Named

Named

Dr. Andrea Stapleton

Nick Buda

Leigh Campbell Joyce

AriAnna Goldstein

Vice President, Mission Integration

Partner

Partner

Partner

Baird Holm

Baird Holm

Baird Holm

College of Saint Mary

Dr. Andrea Stapleton has accepted the position of vice president for mission integration at the college. Stapleton began her duties in early January. “Dr. Stapleton brings a great understanding of our Catholic and Mercy identity and will assist us to continue the good work in mission integration our university currently has,” said Dr. Stevens. In her role as vice president for mission integration, Stapleton will ensure that a mission-oriented culture is a vital component of the university and all its activities and be responsible for maintaining a strategic focus on mission priorities. She will also serve as the internal and external consultant regarding mission and identity for the university while overseeing the Office of Multicultural Initiatives and the Inclusive Campus Strategic Initiative.

Stapleton comes to CSM after serving as a theology professor at Loyola University in Chicago, Ill., and Lewis University in Romeoville, Ill. Prior to that, she held the position of director of mission integration and Mercy heritage at Saint Xavier University in Chicago, Ill. “I am pleased to be a part of the College of Saint Mary community,” said Dr. Stapleton. “The mission of the College, particularly its commitment to educating women and helping them to realize their potential and develop as leaders, is unique and so important. I highly respect the core values of the Sisters of Mercy that inform the mission and culture of CSM. It will be a pleasure to serve the College as it continues its excellent work for students and the community.” Stapleton holds her Ph.D. in theology from Loyola University. She received her M.A. in theology from Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa, and her B.S. in Psychology and B.S. in Education from the University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa.

Baird Holm LLP is proud to announce that Nicholas A. Buda has been promoted to Partner with the Firm.

Nick Buda’s practice primarily consists of commercial litigation in the areas of creditors’ rights, business and corporate transactions, and contract disputes. He routinely assists lending and financial institutions work out problematic loans and collect overdue commercial accounts.

Baird Holm LLP is proud to announce that Leigh Campbell Joyce has been promoted to Partner with the Firm. Leigh Campbell Joyce focuses her practice on all areas of employment litigation. Leigh defends employers in a wide range of workplace claims including employment discrimination, harassment, retaliation, wrongful termination, breach of contract, and disability actions.

Baird Holm LLP is proud to announce that AriAnna C. Goldstein has been promoted to Partner with the Firm.

AriAnna Goldstein’s practice focuses on intellectual property and technology law, with an emphasis on patent law. As a registered patent attorney, Ari works with her clients, who range from start-up ventures to established companies, to determine the best and most comprehensive way to protect their intellectual property.

LEGAL SERVICES

LEGAL SERVICES

LEGAL SERVICES

Named

Named

Added

Kara Stockdale

Kevin Tracy

Kelsey Heino

Partner

Partner

Attorney

Baird Holm

Baird Holm

Woods Aitken LLP

Baird Holm LLP is proud to announce that Kara E. Stockdale has been promoted to Partner with the Firm. Kara Stockdale assists employers in various industries with respect to labor and employment matters, including workplace safety, personnel policies and decisions, equal opportunity, discrimination claims, and employmentbased immigration.

Baird Holm LLP is proud to announce that Kevin P. Tracy has been promoted to Partner with the Firm. Kevin Tracy’s practice focuses on corporate transactions and general commercial matters. He counsels business owners and executives at all stages on their business cycle, from matters related to initial entity formation and capitalization to the drafting and negotiation of agreements related to the acquisition, divestiture, and merger of businesses.

LEGAL SERVICES Announced

Shannon E. Fallon Partner Cline Williams Wright Johnson & Oldfather, L.L.P.

Cline Williams Wright Johnson & Oldfather, L.L.P. is pleased to announce that Shannon E. Fallon has become a partner. Shannon Fallon is a graduate of the University of Nebraska (B.S.B.A., with high distinction, 2005 and J.D., with distinction, 2013). Shannon concentrates her practice in corporate and real estate transactions, including mergers, acquisitions and divestitures, public and private stock offerings, real

estate purchase agreements, commercial leasing, and community development projects. She also advises clients on entity selection, corporate governance, stockholder agreements, and securities law issues. She was a member of Leadership Lincoln Class XXXI and currently serves as Secretary of the Nebraska State Bar Association Business Law Section Executive Committee and as a member of the Lincoln Children’s Museum Board of Directors. She is licensed to practice in both Nebraska and Wyoming. Established in 1857, Cline Williams is a full service law firm with 63 attorneys representing and assisting individual and institutional clients.

The firm has offices across Nebraska in Omaha, Lincoln, Aurora and Scottsbluff, and Fort Collins and Holyoke, Colorado.

Submit your company’s employee announcements to Spotlight@mbj.com

Woods Aitken is excited to announce that Kelsey Heino has recently joined the firm, focusing her practice on labor and employment law. Heino represents management on a full range of labor and employment matters.

When problems arise, Heino represents clients in employment litigation in federal and state courts and before federal and state administrative agencies. Her experience includes the representation of clients in a variety of industries, including construction and trades, corporate, banking and financial, HR/staffing, and health care.

“Kelsey is an exceptional attorney and had valuable career experience prior to entering law school,” said Pam Bourne, a managing partner at Woods Aitken. “She brings a real-world approach to understanding, serving, and representing our clients.” Kelsey worked at a Fortune 500 company as a claims professional prior to entering law school. She received her J.D. cum laude from the University of Nebraska College of Law.

Midlands Business Journal • FEBRUARY 7, 2020 •

27

In the Spotlight Paid Content

INSURANCE

INSURANCE

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE ENGINEERING

Promoted

Promoted

Awarded

Joined

Paul Hasenjager

Greg Kizer

Leslie Peterson

Jeff Johnson

Senior Vice President

Senior Vice President

Circle of Excellence Award

RIC

RIC

CREW Omaha

Senior Project Manager, Senior Electrical Engineer

Paul Hasenjager has been promoted to Senior Vice President of RIC Closely Held Services, a subsidiary of RIC. Paul, a graduate of St. Louis University, is an Accredited Senior Appraiser with the American Society of Appraisers (ASA) in the business valuation discipline.

Paul joined RIC in 2013 and has been instrumental in creating and growing the valuation business line over the past 7 years. Due to Paul’s efforts, the Closely Held Division currently partners with over 60 wealth management organizations. Paul has also recruited and developed a credentialed staff to support and service the business unit’s rapid growth.

Greg Kizer has also been promoted to Senior Vice President of RIC. Greg holds an MBA from DePaul University’s Kellstadt Graduate School of Business, a Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst designation with the CAIA Association, and FINRA Series 7, 63 and 79 licenses. Greg will continue to manage all new business development activities and client relationships for RIC. Greg joined RIC in 2011 and has been a key contributor helping RIC become a nation-leading provider for Trust Owned Life Insurance risk management and growing all business lines under the RIC umbrella.

Leslie Peterson was recently honored with the Circle of Excellence Award from CREW Omaha at the 11th annual celebration on January 18. CREW (Commercial Real Estate Women) Network is dedicated to advancing the success of women in commercial real estate. Cornerstones of the award are excellence, integrity and innovation.

Award winners serve as thought leaders, change agents and champions of diversity. Peterson has had a successful career in sales and business development. She has been with Lamp Rynearson for the past 15 years serving as Client Development Manager and Marketing Group Leader. Peterson has been an active volunteer for commercial real estate organizations. She served on the CRE (Commercial Real Estate) Summit planning committee for 10 years and was a member on CREW Omaha’s first Board of Directors and is a past president. She was a past co-chair of ICSC (International Council of Shopping Centers, Heartland Idea Exchange, Peterson was inducted into the CRE (Commercial Real Estate) 2015 Hall of Fame.

will continue to manage a growing commercial portfolio, while also seeking new opportunities for the Bank’s Commercial Team. Outside of work, Drew enjoys spending time with family, hunting, golfing and giving back to his community. He is on the Board of Directors at JDRF, serving as the President of their Young Leadership Committee and is on their Corporate Development Committee. He is on his 10th year as a committee member of Pinot Pigs & Poets, an annual event that supports Completely Kids, and he serves on the Completely Kids Finance Committee. Drew also serves on the Stakeholder Committee for the 2020 Commercial Real Estate Summit and the Planning Committee for the 2020 Perfect Pour event supporting the Nebraska

Children & Families Foundation. Drew’s has a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Chadron State College, and is a graduate of The Omaha Chamber’s Leadership Omaha Class 40.

BANKING Promoted

Drew Antonio Vice President, Commercial Banking Group Enterprise Bank

Enterprise Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Drew Antonio to Vice President in the Commercial Banking Group. Antonio was promoted to AVP in the Commercial Banking Group in 2016, and joined Enterprise Bank in 2013 as a Credit Analyst.

He has over 8 years of commercial banking experience, having worked for another regional financial institution prior to Enterprise. Drew

Submit your company’s employee announcements to Spotlight@mbj.com

Alvine Engineering, Lincoln

Alvine Engineering is excited to welcome Jeff Johnson to our Lincoln office as a Senior Electrical Engineer and Project Manager. Jeff has over 17 years of experience as an electrical engineer and telecommunications/ life safety designer. He is a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in multiple states and is a Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD). Throughout his career, Jeff's work has encompassed projects in various market sectors, including government, education, corporate, healthcare, hospitality, retail/ restaurant, industrial and religious facilities. Jeff’s leadership, technical skills and active communication allow him to collaborate with multidisciplined teams to bring innovative solutions to complex problems unique to each client. Jeff is a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and served as a Captain in the United States Marine Corps as a Logistics Officer. In his spare time, Jeff enjoys living on a farm with his wife, Anne, and their five children. Together, they raise and show cattle, horses, sheep and pigs. He also volunteers and is active in 4-H, Junior Achievement, Knights of Columbus and his parish.

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• FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • Midlands Business Journal