Strictly Business December 2019

STRICTLYBUSINESSOMAHA.COM

OMAHA • DECEMBER 2019

TM

A salon made for

• Senior Care • Technology • Holiday Wrap-Up CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS • Bridge to Better Living • Modern Work Suites & Studios

RIVER CITY SIX

IN THIS ISSUE

YOU! JESSICA FRENZEN Clearwater Counseling

CHRIS RUSH 9Round Fitness

KEN INCONTRO Closet & Storage Concepts

JENNIFER LOUKOTA McGill Restoration

BRANDI BALLAN West Gate Bank

TIMOTHY SIRAGUSA Acadian Grille Dundee

AGO

Strictly Business Magazine PO BOX 57397, Lincoln, NE 68505

K ARE N LYONS

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gether for an appreciation party. was a time to celebrate the standing outcomes of the 2019 cal year. The organization’s ccess rates, satisfaction rates, d accessibility rates all improved nificantly from previous years.

unded in 1972, Santa Monica has partnered with over 3,000 men on their journey to recovery from addiction and alcoholism. uniting families, reintegrating productive women to the community, d providing exceptional service has been the vision of Santa onica and continues to be for the future. Santa Monica provides a lfway House program with a step-down level of care to a threearters way house and a 10-unit apartment building for women and ldren. To learn more, visit www.santamonicahouse.org or contact 02) 558-7088 / heather@santamonicahouse.org.

leasing physical space in both Omaha and Council Bluffs. SHARE will spend half the week at the Scott Technology Center in O centralized Aksarben Village (6825 Pine St.) and the balance in Council Bluffs subleasing from The 712 Initiative (1228 S. M SHARE Omaha had an incubation period from June 2018 July 2019 at the Suzanne & Walter Scott Foundation offices. organizations’ needs evolved over the year, the opportunity to a creative office approach presented itself. SHARE Omaha an eight-county footprint: Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy, Saunde Washington counties in Nebraska and Harrison, Mills, and Pottaw counties in Iowa. The organization will review this pilot officially December 2019 and will announce details of office location d later in the year.

SHARE Omaha hosts a robust online platform (SHAREomaha.o makes giving easy by connecting generous people to the greate in the community. Call (402) 502-0360 with any questions.

nclusive Communities Announces 2019-20 eason of Lozier Omaha Table Talk

Omaha Police Foundation Celebrates 20 Years, Unveils New Logo

The Omaha Police Foundation (OPF) is lusive Communities has released celebrating its 20th anniversary this year e complete 2019-20 schedule of and, as a part of the commemoration, zier Omaha Table Talk (OTT) events. is proud to introduce a new logo. The T features informal gatherings of Strictly Business is direct mailed to over 15,000 refreshed logo design was inspired by ople from all backgrounds engaging the badge worn by the sworn officers businesses in Omaha conversations about diversity and every month. With a of the Omaha Police Department (OPD). lusion over meal. Such facilitated 2-4amonth shelf life and a strong pass-along Over the past 19 years, the Foundation cussions lead to an understanding of it is estimated that 1 copy of the has raised more than $5 million to ferencesreadership, and greater respect to help implement several major improvements for OPD, includ minate prejudice and inequities our average of 5 people. magazine reachesin an purchasing of vital equipment, officer recruitment and mmunity. The full 2019-20 Omaha everything programs, community relations, and officer recognition. OPF’ ble TalkPlus, schedule is as follows:is published online! have made it possible to build a new canine training facility September 18, 2019 – ERA 2020: Reframing Women’s Equality Omaha Police Safety and Training Center (2011), purchas as Equity Our goal is to take your message beyond your advertisement and Simulator for OPD (2014), and to make sever Arms Training September 23, 2019 – Storytelling as Remembrance: Black Art equipment purchases that improve the quality and effici present you as the expert your fiLynching eld, showcase your products/ and History in the 100th Year of WillinBrown’s OPD’s police force. services, celebrate accomplishments, introduce key people at OPF has also supported numerous com October 15, 2019 – Race,your Really: The Myths and Realities of the based programs presented by OPD, such as the Police Athl Racial your Differences business, and ultimately, tell your story, in both print and online.

Community Engagement (formerly Omaha Police Athletic L October 31, 2019 – One Person, No Voice: Voter Suppression 2020 National Night Out, Bomb Pop with a Cop, Cops & Bobber November 14, 2019 – #SaveOurSisters: Protecting Trans Women program, and more.

November 26, 2019 – Decolonizing Thanksgiving: Racial Justice In 2017, OPF concluded its fundraising initiative and purch and Oppression as Tradition Mobile Crime Lab, which is used to process evidence found December 17, 2019 – #SomosElFuturo: Immigration and the Crisis scenes faster and more efficiently, and in 2018 they purch at the Border Mobile Command and Communications Center. The vehicle is January 14, 2020 – Women and Wisdom: Social Justice in the Isn’t timecritically you created some new andsuch fresh in theitmost sensitive operations ascontent barricade sit Pages of the St. John’s Bible to increase your online presence and credibility officer-involved shooting scenes, homicide scenes, for natural d February 4, 2020 – Homeless Omaha: Policy, Prevention, and free?

To getemergencies, started, call or website today: and other as visit well our as high-traffic events whe Community Support maintains crowd control. OPF is currently raising the remainin February 18, 2020 – Transportation Inequities: Marginalization 402.466.3330 | StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com to purchase 600 Body Worn Cameras to fully equip the and Access Patrol Bureau officers as well as members of the Gang U March 3, 2020 – #MeToo on the Margins Emergency Response Unit.

March 17, 2020 – Mass Incarceration: Enslaved in the System April 14, 2020 – Askable Adults Founded in 1999, the Omaha Police Foundation provides fi April 28, 2020 – Mental Health First Aid: Youth and Crisis Prevention support for the Omaha Police Department to ensure that office May 12, 2020 – The Color of Wealth: Race, Poverty and Resources the training, equipment, and technology needed to preven May 26, 2020 – Time Out to Hard Time: Education, Incarceration, save lives, and make Omaha a safer community. The Found TheSchool-to-Prison data presented here isPipeline from Oct. 1, 2018 - Sept. 30, 2019 and taken and the governed by a 17-member Board of Directors, led by Presid from Google Analytics.

Woody Bradford. The Chief of Police and the President of the usive Communities’ Omaha Table Talk is free and open to the public, Police Officers Association each serve as ex-officio member h registration required by visiting www.inclusive-communities.org.

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Bridge to Better Living Recognized Living out their mission of “Placement with Passion®!”

Bridge to Better Living received the Better Business Bureau (BBB) 2019 Integrity Award at an awards ceremony held October 15, 2019 at the 21st Annual Integrity Awards Luncheon.

Owner and founder of Bridge to Better Living, Mary Ann Stallings, expressed “We are honored to receive the BBB Integrity Award. Every day we practice Placement with Passion®. This award demonstrates our service is valued and respected by those we serve. Bridge to Better Living knows the dream we have to serve others is real.”

After 28 years of teaching, Mary Ann retired and the next day opened Bridge to Better Living. She did not hesitate to follow her heart. Mary Ann consulted with known business leaders, enrolled in a business development class, and was able to design a business plan for Bridge to Better Living with the assistance of SCORE. As an educator in the Lincoln Public Schools, the medical world and its language was not familiar at first. Her passion to serve seniors grew with each contact and discovery.

Bridge to Better Living prides itself with Placement with Passion®. Each client deserves respect and is valued.

Bridge to Better Living feels its high standards set the bar for other services working with seniors. The older generation has given much to others and their communities. They find it essential each client has the best quality of life possible.

“

Owner and founder Mary Ann Stallings, pictured with the award.

"This was a very personal and proud accomplishment for all of us. Our unique individual traits have a common thread...we care.

This is what has built Bridge to Better Living."

- Robbie Nathan, Transition Consultant

“

Bridge to Living team L-R: Kristine DykemanSchoening, Margaret Burnham, Mary Ann Stallings, Robbie Nathan and Jolee Urbanovsky.

“I can’t begin to express my gratitude for all of your help, kindness, thoroughness, and overall caring as we found (with the help of Bridge to Better Living) a safe place for my aunt. Your support and insight was the catalyst for getting done what we all knew needed to be done! We appreciate everything you did to help us.”

- Niece of Margaret

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“

Bridge to Better Living was founded in 2010 with the vision of assisting seniors find an exceptional quality of life while transitioning from their home to a retirement or senior living community fitting their needs. This service is always completely free to the client and their family.

Bridge to Better Living focuses on lessening stress and providing peace of mind to seniors and their families while reassuring them there are still gifts to give and wisdom to share.

“

“BBB’s Integrity Award Winners have shown that ethics and integrity are core values of their organization,” stated Jim Hegarty, president and chief executive officer, of Better Business Bureau, Inc. serving Nebraska, South Dakota, The Kansas Plains and, Southwest Iowa. “The 2019 BBB Integrity Award Winners join an elite group of organizations that realize dealing fairly and honestly with employees, customers and partners are central to profitability and growth. They serve as role models for all businesses located in the metro Lincoln and Grand Island. The Better Business Bureau Foundation is pleased to honor them with this prestigious award.”

DECEMBER 2019 Strictly Business

1

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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

Happy Holidays from Strictly Business!

The holiday season always reminds us to count our blessings, both in our having to say farewell to long-time employee, Lizzy Werner, who personal and professional lives. It’s a time to look back at all the things landed her first full-time job as a parent educator for Family, Inc. we’ve accomplished and endured in the past year, while also looking (Congrats, Lizzy!) forward to the opportunities that await us in the year ahead. With a Megan Keyser and Rebecca Boyd recently joined the Strictly Business lot of transition and growth at the magazine in the recent months, we team as part-time sales interns. Megan and Rebecca have been are grateful to feel like we have finally established a solid team of working closely with Owners Paige and Shayne Zutavern to learn people who are all on the same page as we work toward our goal the ins and outs of the magazine and how to present it as a strong of being Lincoln and Omaha’s most powerful and trusted source of advertising tool to local business leaders. They have already had the local business news. opportunity to conduct their own sales meetings with potential clients.

The most recent development we Both ladies attend the University had was welcoming Annie Carbutt of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL). Megan as writer and co-editor to Hannah is in the College of Business Hundley. Annie originally applied Administration, studying marketing for the position of assistant, but and management. Rebecca attends our team felt strongly about her classes at the College of Journalism experience in English and writing as she works toward a degree in and her all-around curiosity of advertising and public relations the world around her. This is with an emphasis in psychology and what sparked the idea of having minors in English and theatre.

Annie come on to take over the Kadi Carleton, an English major majority of press writing and at UNL with minors in biology compiling feature stories, allowing and women/gender studies, was Hannah to direct her attention introduced back in September as back to the operational duties a writing intern. Kadi has been a she enjoyed when she first joined great help to Hannah each month the Strictly Business team as the Photo by Bradley Jensen. Pictured (L-R): Top Row – Megan Keyser, Annie and will now work closely with Annie. executive assistant. (Learn more Carbutt, Rebecca Boyd, Julia Everston; Bottom Row – Lizzy Werner, Around the same time, Julia Everston about Annie by reading her Hannah Hundley, Paige Zutavern, Katherine Crawford, Kadi Carleton. was brought on as a creative intern. press announcement in this issue!)

Julia is an advertising and public Hannah will continue to oversee major editorial pieces such as Star/ relations major at UNL with minors in fashion merchandising and English.

River City Sixes, Client Spotlights, Restaurant Exposés, etc., but will now She has gained valuable experience designing advertisements and be in charge of coordinating events and sales meetings, carrying out the spotlights for clients under the direction of Katherine. on-boarding process for new clients, and handling other administrative Not only are we thankful for the amazing group of women we have in office duties. Hannah and Annie both work closely with Art Director place at Strictly Business, we also want our clients and readers to know Katherine Crawford who has excelled in her role since being hired how much we appreciate their support. Everything we do is for you! back in April of this year.

From all of us at Strictly Business to you and yours, Our team is excited about the addition of a handful of new interns Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! as well, though we are harboring some mixed feelings about

CONTENTS NEWS

4 Business 23 Personnel

28 Nonprofit 35 Health

SPOTLIGHTS

1 Bridge to Better Living 22 Foster Care: CEDARS 48 Modern Work Suites & Studios

FEATURE STORIES

36 39 43 2

Senior Care Technology Holiday Wrap-Up Strictly Business DECEMBER 2019

Hannah

Annie

Katherine

PRODUCTION TEAM: Editor/Operations Hannah Hundley - Editor@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Editor/Writer Annie Carbutt - Office@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Art Director Katherine Crawford - Design@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com SALES TEAM: President/Sales Paige Zutavern - Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Publisher/Founder/Accounting Shayne Zutavern - SZutavern@yahoo.com STRICTLY BUSINESS is not responsible for unsolicited material. All rights to submission, including letters, will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to our unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially or creatively, unless otherwise negotiated with the author. Nothing may be printed in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher. The publication of any advertisement in STRICTLY BUSINESS is not an endorsement of the advertiser or of the products or services advertised.

Printed in the U.S.A. Copyright ©2019 by PZAK, Inc. Third Class Postage Paid at Lincoln, NE 68505

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ABOUT THE COVER Since 1982, Creative Hair Design Salon & Spa has been providing luxurious treatments and services to the Omaha area. From humble beginnings in a 1,200-square-foot space with handpicked specialists to its current 18,000-square-foot beautiful building—they have A salon made for truly perfected the salon and spa YOU! experience. Their team of expert professionals are constantly learning and making sure they continue to provide you with the best salon and spa treatments available.

In ThIs Issue

• Senior Care • Technology • Holiday Wrap-Up Client SpotlightS • Bridge to Better Living • Modern Work Suites & Studios

RIVER CITY SIX

OMAHA • DECEMBER 2019

STRICTLYBUSINESSOMAHA.COM

JESSICA FRENZEN Clearwater Counseling

CHRIS RUSH 9Round Fitness

TM

A salon made for

YOU!

KEN INCONTRO Closet & Storage Concepts

Creative Hair Design is your one-stop destination for ultimate pampering. They have created a nurturing environment that not only promotes health and beauty but also gives you a location for total relaxation. Step into their oasis, forget your worries for hours, and leave feeling like a new you.

JENNIFER LOUKOTA McGill Restoration

BRANDI BALLAN West Gate Bank

TIMOTHY SIRAGUSA Acadian Grille Dundee

AGO

Strictly Business Magazine PO BOX 57397, Lincoln, NE 68505

Looking for a cut, color, or extensions? Something soft and natural or bold and daring? Creative Hair Design believes that your hair should not only look amazing, but it should show who you are and how you express yourself. Their hairstylists will give you the look that you have been dreaming of, bringing your hair goals to life.

Spend the day with one of the massage therapists at Creative Hair Design who will work out the tension in your body while giving your skin extra nutrients that will leave you glowing. Let their nationally-certified and Nebraska-licensed therapists create a customized experience for you and your needs. Color correction, acne treatment, and full rejuvenation can be found in many of their skin treatments. They are the experts you can trust!

There does not need to be a special occasion to pamper yourself, but when there is a special occasion, Creative Hair Design is here to take care of you. Whether it is a special day, prom, or your wedding day, they make sure you look and feel your best. They welcome groups of all sizes to enjoy your special occasion with you, and their team will ensure there is not a single hair out of place on your special day.

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www.StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com DECEMBER 2019 Strictly Business

3

BUSINESS NEWS Acadian Grille Acquires Kith/Kin Location, Opens Acadian Grille Dundee

UNICO Group Honored with Governor’s Wellness Awards

Acadian Grille, owned by Dan and Jennifer O’Brien, is excited to announce that they have acquired the building that formally housed Kith/Kin in order to open their second Cajun scratch kitchen in Omaha—Acadian Grille Dundee. Located at 5018 Underwood Ave., Acadian Grille Dundee will feature about 85% of the same menu options as the original restaurant in Miracle Hills. The main difference is that the Dundee location came equipped with a large industrial smoker, allowing them to offer customers savory items like prime rib and brisket sandwiches.

Acadian Grille Dundee also has an impressive full-service bar. Dan and Restaurant Manager Tim Siragusa hope to gain the reputation of being a popular drinking establishment, in addition to being known for their delicious authentic Cajun cuisine. Acadian Grille Dundee will have happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, featuring drink specials and discounts on their famous patio tacos, chicken wings, and more.

In addition, Acadian Grille Dundee will feature live soulful music by the talented Ed “Smooth Grooves” Archibald on Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 5 to 8 p.m. Ed is a saxophonist with over 30 years of experience. His musical roots run deep in jazz, rhythm and blues, country, and classical music, which gives his sound a truly unique flavor.

To learn more about Acadian Grille’s two locations in Omaha, visit acadiangrille.com. To reach the Dundee location directly, call (402) 991-1552. Ask them about their catering options!

U N I C O G ro u p i s o n e o f 4 2 N eb ra s k a e m p l oye r s recognized by Governor Pete Ricketts and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) for offering evidence-based worksite wellness programs to its employees. They have been honored as a recipient of the 2019 Governor’s Wellness Awards in the Sower Category.

The Governor’s Wellness Awards are given to businesses that dedicate leadership, resources, and time to wellness efforts in the workplace.

The application process is designed to recognize businesses that have planted and nurtured the seed for wellness within their organization.

Each applicant must provide information in the areas of leadership, data collection, intervention strategies, policy/environment support, and evaluation of outcomes.

UNICO’s wellness program has been established for over a decade.

In 2017, the program was enhanced by utilizing FitThumb, an online wellness platform that creates a simple way to track wellness activities. UNICO continues to fine tune their wellness program every year for the benefit of their employees.

UNICO Group is a locally-owned insurance and financial agency providing innovative solutions from a team of experienced professionals. They have offices in Lincoln, Columbus, Kearney, and Papillion. For more information about how UNICO can meet your insurance and financial needs, call (402) 434-7200 or visit unicogroup.com.

NIGHT OF

Endless Stars Friday, December 6 | 5:30 - 11:30 pm Embassy Suites La Vista | 12520 Westport Pkwy Individual Tickets | $100

GALA

Help us raise funds to start the construction of the Endless Journey Hospice House and to continue our nonprofit initiative that includes holistic health and meal services.

For more information or questions, contact 402-890-3623 Corporate tables still available!

Buy tickets at www.2019endlessstar.givesmart.com 4

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2019

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BUSINESS NEWS Z Design Tile & Stone Showroom Hosts Ribbon Cutting to Officially Mark Grand Opening

Nebraska Safety Council Creates New Business Development Position

On November 7, Z Design Tile & Stone Showroom hosted a ribbon cutting with the Greater Omaha Chamber to officially mark the opening of their beautiful showroom at 1515 Industrial Rd. Owner and Founder Kyle Rasmussen was joined at the event by Omaha’s top designers, Jacque Christensen Design and Melanie Boone from Interiors by Joan. Clients and guests from the community came to browse Z Design’s unique product selection and take in the showroom’s boutique atmosphere.

Attendees got to enjoy refreshments, meet the staff, and put their name in for gift card raffles.

Z Design exists to fill a void in the local market of a tile and stone showroom that delivers an experience. This is why Z Design focuses on three key points—beautiful product, exceptional service, and design assistance. Kyle designed Z Design’s showroom to be a place that is fun and exciting for homeowners, designers, general contractors, tile contractors, home builders, architects, and all other potential tile or stone buyers. The knowledgeable sales associates are able to help in every part of the process, from product selection to design.

To contact Z Design Tile & Stone Showroom, visit their website at ZDesignTile.com or call (402) 415-2804.

The Nebraska Safety Council recently announced the addition of a new business development role within their organization. The position will entail active networking and partnership-building in the community, a perfect opportunity for anyone who loves connecting with others rather than sitting in front of a computer all day. The organization hopes to propel their mission forward through finding a highly-motivated individual for the position who is eager to assist people in finding workplace safety and wellness solutions and making a meaningful impact in the community.

B4B Announced New Date of Make an Impact Symposium, December 10 Join Business4Business (B4B) Professional Society on Tuesday, December 10, from 2 to 6 p.m., for the Make an Impact Symposium. Taking place at the beautiful and newly renovated il Palazzo Omaha at 5110 N. 132nd St., the Make an Impact Symposium will be a fun and meaningful way to connect with others and hear from some incredible change-makers in the community. Plus, every attendee will have a direct impact on two amazing nonprofit partners, Chariots4Hope and Rejuvenating Women.

This exciting event will combine networking with keynote storytelling and experience sharing. The speakers who have been announced for the Make an Impact Symposium include: • Paul Jarrett, CEO Bulu Box • Dr. Jaime Seeman, Dr. Fit and Fabulous • Danny Garcia, founder and front man of Lemon Fresh Day • Jack Shotbolt, area sales manager of Caliber Home Loans • Karissa Williams, 365DailyHustle • Luper Akough, founder of Clout Enterprises For the past six years, Business4Business Professional Society has been bringing together business owners, community leaders, and entrepreneurial influencers—all to connect and learn from one another. The society is an engaged and effective community of leaders and professionals who commit to empower, serve, and develop one another while giving back to the community.

B4B focuses on bringing motivated people together and providing resources that create lasting relationships, insights, and experiences.

For more information about Business4Business Professional Society or to register for this event, please visit www.b4bsociety.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

The Nebraska Safety Council is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Lincoln that provides education and leadership to empower people to live safe and healthy lives. For more information or to apply for the new business development position, visit www. nesafetycouncil.org. or contact Lisa Henning at (402) 483-2511 / lhenning@nesafetycouncil.org with any questions.

Beautiful Soul Spa Suites Celebrates New Space with Sarpy Chamber Ribbon Cutting Beautiful Soul Spa Suites celebrated the opening of their new salon space, located at 9819 S 168th St., on October 4 with a ribbon cutting conducted by the Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce. Owner Jordan Felise is thrilled to see her entrepreneurial concept come to life. She welcomed clients and friends to celebrate with her, along with current tenants.

Located just north of 168th and Cornhusker, Beautiful Soul has a two-fold purpose: to help wellness technicians create their own successful business space in a secure, tasteful, cooperative environment and to bring clients a choice of services in a space dedicated to serenity, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Jordan is a licensed esthetician and has been a certified lash extensionist for almost 10 years. Along with her services, there is spray tanning, licensed cosmeticians, a body art technician, scalp micropigmentation provider, and permanent makeup technicians that specialize in brow design, waxing, and tinting.

The salon is as beautiful as the name suggests. There is a chandelier in the entryway, polished wooden floors, and sleek furniture. Technicians will find state-of-the-art studio spaces that include quartz countertops, high-end cabinetry, dimmable LED lights and soundproofing, plus video surveillance security and electronic entry system to the building. Tenants can manage their own schedule, use the products and brands they want, decorate their space how they wish, and set their own prices, all without the burden of owning a full studio such as start-up costs and facility management and maintenance.

Currently, half of the suites at Beautiful Soul Spa Suites are filled, so technicians interested in leasing are encouraged to reach out now! Jordan can be contacted at (402) 980-3638 / jordan@ beautifulsoulspasuites.com. You can also view photos of the new space on their website at beautifulsoulspasuites.com.

DECEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 5

BUSINESS NEWS American National Bank Prepares for Grand Opening of Saddle Creek Location

Consumers Look for BBB Seal when Shopping this Holiday Season

Excitement is building fast at American National Bank’s new Saddle Creek location as the team prepares for the grand opening in the coming months.

Situated on the former location of Omaha Steel Casting Company, the design is reminiscent of a sense of place and history paying homage to the classic integrity of the Blackstone district. The addition of the Saddle Creek branc h in 2020 will be convenient to the nearby Blackstone District and the UNMC Medical Center with easy access to downtown Omaha. This branch, and investment in the Saddle Creek neighborhood, reinforces American National Bank’s commitment to and celebration of their community roots and long-time desire to serve banking and professional needs in the heart of this urban community.

American National Bank is the second largest locally-owned bank based on deposits in the Omaha/Council Bluffs market area. With $3.8 billion in assets and greater than 575 employees, it operates 30 full-service offices in Nebraska and Iowa, and 7 locations in Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN, operating under Western Bank, a Division of American National Bank. American National Bank also has loan production offices in Kansas and Texas. For more information, visit www.american.bank and stay tuned for details to be posted about the grand opening celebration!

Being accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) expands your online presence, inspires trust, and makes consumers feel good about spending their dollars with you. Customers and businesses entered into the holiday season with a level of uncertainty this year. The trade war with China has left many consumers concerned about rising prices. Economic forecasters keep predicting a possible slowdown.

Chains that thrived for decades are closing. So, if customers are a little more hesitant to spend their dollars, how can you make sure the ones they do spend are with you?

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Garage Systems 6 Strictly Business DECEMBER 2019

For consumers to choose you, your business needs an edge that will allow you to effectively attract customers. Not only does being a BBB Accredited Business increase your reputation, but it also increases your website traffic. BBB accreditation comes with tools you can use to grow your business. Those include your BBB profile, the BBB Accredited Business Seal, an Accredited Business Directory and more.

Customers want to know they’re spending their money with vendors they can trust. When you become accredited by BBB, customers are confident in choosing your products and services.

You can get ahead of the game by taking the steps to becoming accredited by the Better Business Bureau by applying at bbb.org/ become-accredited or by calling (800) 649-6814.

Nebraska Alumni Association Launches New Online Platform, Husker Connect The Nebraska Alumni Association is excited to announce that this month marks the launch of a new online platform—Husker Connect—to connect UNL students with alumni and professionals to share guidance and tips about succeeding in the classroom and in careers. Husker Connect is a partnership between the Nebraska Alumni Association, the UNL College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, the College of Business, the College of Engineering, and the Center for Entrepreneurship. The platform was introduced to UNL alumni in November and will be rolled out to UNL students in the above colleges in January.

“Huskers look out for each other in the classroom, in business, and in life,” said Jordan Gonzales, director of alumni engagement at the Nebraska Alumni Association. “One of the biggest demands of both our alumni and current students is to get advice and tips from people who have been in their situations before. Whether you’re a student trying to jump into the job market or a professional trying to advance in their career, Husker Connect will help you take the next step.”

Husker Connect allows students and professionals to devote as much or as little time as they would like to be in a mentorship.

It can be as simple as asking a few questions via e-mail or phone on a one-time basis or setting up periodic phone calls or chat sessions. Joining Husker Connect is free, and UNL alumni and other professionals are invited to sign up and create a profile at huskerconnect.unl.edu. For more information about Husker Connect, contact Jordan Gonzales at (402) 472-4219 / jgonzales@huskeralum.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Center Sphere Announces Network-Wide December Events Center Sphere is Omaha’s largest and fastest growing professional networ king organization. In addition to c hapter meetings, Center Sphere also provides its members unique opportunities for networking and professional development through a variety of events and trainings each month. These events are also a great way for nonmembers to learn more about how Center Sphere may help them make meaningful business connections. December events include: • Thursday, December 12, 7:30–9 a.m.: Coffee & Connections hosted

by Ascend Technology Group at Hardy Coffee Co, 1033 Jones St. • Tuesday, December 17, 11 a.m.: Q&A - Meet The Network at The Omaha Bakery, 608 S. 72nd St., followed by Maximize Your Membership Training at noon.

Center Sphere is an established network of business professionals whose mission is to share referrals, ideas, and resources through genuine relationships. The Omaha network is currently made up of over 50 chapters and 800 members. For more information about Center Sphere or becoming a member, please go to www.

CenterSphere.com or contact Lona Anderson at (402) 650-5380 / LonaAnderson@CenterSphere.com.

Heartland International Announces Upcoming Commercial Contractor Trainings Heartland International, Inc., a nationwide distributor of Conklin Commercial Roofing Systems, is offering training programs this month and in January for contractors and those with an interest in developing a successful commercial roofing enterprise.

These trainings are being held in Kansas City. On December 19, there will be an allday workshop on metal roofing systems at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Kansas City International Airport.

Then January 8–10, an advanced roofing systems training will take place at the Conklin Headquarters.

Since the introduction of the first, innovative Conklin Roof Coatings in 1977 and the first roofs applied in Lincoln in 1978, the network of Heartland International’s contractors has spread to over 25 states installing Conklin Roofing Systems that outlast and outperform conventional systems from coast to coast. The demand is strong for these energy saving systems, and Heartland International is actively recruiting additional contractors to meet the need. Record growth in business in 2018 and 2019 have combined to nearly double previous annual benchmarks indicating the kind of demand and urgent need to expand the network of trained contractors.

Heartland International, Inc. is based in Lincoln and is responsible to screen and train contractors to install the Conklin Roofing Systems. Call (402) 430-7727 for the free book entitled FAMILY21 PROFITALBLE PROJECT PROFILES to learn of the profit potential possible with these innovative and progressive commercial roofing systems. For more information about the upcoming trainings or to apply for one of Heartland International’s current openings, email DennisLNun@gmail.com or go online to www.TheSecureRoof.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Bridge to Better Living Attends Physician Conference in Nebraska City Bridge to Better Living was one of 10 vendors given the opportunity to attend the annual Nebraska Academy of Family Physicians conference held at Lied Lodge in Nebraska City on November 2.

Family physicians from as far as Scottsbluff attended the two-day conference and engaged in conversations with Bridge to Better Living and other vendors about subjects impacting their patients and families. Bridge to Better Living, represented by Transition Consultants Kristine Dykeman-Schoening and Robbie Nathan, shared their core value of Placement with Passion®. Quality of life is important to all ages, especially to seniors transitioning to a new lifestyle. The relationships formed with professionals in the senior care industry are integral.

Bridge to Better Living is a no-cost-to-client transition service helping seniors and their families. They serve Omaha, Lincoln, and surrounding areas. Call (402) 802-3301 or visit www.

BridgetoBetterLiving.com to schedule a free consultation.

KETO Summit 2020 Midwest Comes to Omaha Mark your calendars for the KETO Summit 2020 Midwest, a two-day conference slated for Friday and Saturday, January 10-11, 2020.

The summit will be held at The Relevant Center in Elkhorn and will bring together experts and enthusiasts as well as anyone who has an interest in the field of ketogenic nutrition. Registration for the summit is open to the public.

The KETO Summit will feature medical doctors and experts in ketogenic nutrition on topics that range from keto for kids, women’s health, keto and disease, how to get started, reversing diabetes, the carnivore diet, and the overall keto lifestyle. The ketogenic diet is a powerful metabolic tool to lose weight, fight disease, increase longevity, and increase energy.

Attendees will hear from eight national speakers and keto experts, including the local keto celebrity known as “Doctor Fit and Fabulous!”

There will also be dozens of keto vendors who will share product samples and demos, start-up-guides, and books. Local restaurants that support the low-carb lifestyle will also be available to answer your questions, such as The Omaha Bakery. The KETO Summit committee is working hard to facilitate connections and a great experience for every attendee. More speakers, prizes, contests, and special sessions will be announced as the summit approaches.

To register or learn more about the KETO Summit 2020 Midwest, go to midwestketosummit.zohobackstage.com.

DECEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 7

BUSINESS NEWS Ribbon Cutting Held for Grand Opening of Closet & Storage Concepts

Barks N Brews Welcomed to Millard with Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

The Greater Omaha Chamber was thrilled to celebrate the grand opening of Closet & Storage Concepts by hosting a ribbon cutting at their new showroom on October 2. Owners Ken and Cindi Incontro entertained their guests with guitar music and food by A Catered Affair. Attendees were able to get a look at all of the elegant, quality products that Closet & Storage Concepts offers.

The Millard Business Association officially celebrated the grand opening of Barks N Brews with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 12. Owner Danielle Nielsen was so excited to bring this new concept to Omaha. Located at 13730 P St., Barks N Brews is a dog bar where humans and dogs alike can come and socialize. The bar has a full liquor and beer menu and has an off-leash dog park specifically for your dog to explore and meet more friends.

Officially opening their doors in July of this year, Closet & Storage Concepts’ 2,000-square-foot showroom showcases their custom closets, wall beds, home storage solutions, and more—all manufactured right here in Omaha. There is also an interactive design center that allows customers to create a 3D version of their project on a flat screen so they can visualize every last detail to perfection.

Closet & Storage Concepts of Omaha is located at 10908 John Galt Blvd., and they’re open Monday through Saturday or anytime by appointment. For a free consultation for your home or business, call (402) 885-8581 or visit closetandstorageconcepts. com/omaha-nebraska.

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As a premium doggy daycare provider with tons of amenities, Barks N Brews allows pet owners to take advantage of their easy check-in, drop off, pick up, and payment options. Plus, their safe and secure facility has dog cams to check up on your four-legged family member on your phone or at your computer!

Barks N Brews’ doggy daycare strives to provide a home away from home for your dog while you are busy. They will get exercise and love from their entire staff. To learn more, visit www.barksn-brews.com or contact (402) 819-7769 / danielle@barks-nbrews.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS West Gate Bank Named to Forbes 2019 Best Banks in Each State List This year, West Gate Bank® was named as one of Forbes Best Banks In Each State.

More than 25,000 customers in the U.S. were surveyed for their opinions on their current and former banking relationships. Financial institutions were scored on overall recommendations and satisfaction, as well as five subdimensions (trust, terms and conditions, branch services, digital services, and financial advice).

West Gate Bank® is honored to receive this ranking, but also recognizes they don’t earn this without their loyal customers. As a family-owned community bank with 10 locations in Lincoln and Omaha, West Gate Bank makes your financial goals their first priority. For more information, visit westgate.bank.

Best Care EAP Announces Resiliency Training Series and HR Insight Talk Series for 2020 Best Care EAP (Employee Assistance Program) announced their 2020 training catalog and calendar of events this month.

In addition to their highlycoveted academy training programs, they will offer The Path to Resiliency, a progressive resiliency training series designed to teach life skills for managing stress, as well as HR Insight, a brand new talk series for human resource and wellness professionals.

The Path to Resiliency is a five-part training series that will help employees develop resiliency skills they can use in stressful circumstances. The series teaches how to accurately prioritize threats, who and where to go to for support, how to learn and grow through life’s inevitable challenges, and more.

HR Insight digs deep into the burning issues that keep human resource representatives up at night. Led by experts in the field, the series will offer insight into questions about helping people thrive, being proactive with workplace violence, managing substance abuse in the workplace, and managing cannabis in the workplace.

Best Care EAP is all about helping you invest in your most valuable asset: your employees! They teach training sessions on emerging workplace issues like leadership and management development, emotional and physical health, stress and time management, communication, and more. Best Care EAP can also provide licensed counselors for your workplace through phone calls, online, or face-to-face sessions.

If you want to learn more about Academy sessions, available training series, or other services offered through Best Care EAP, visit their website at BestCareEAP.org, call (402) 354-8000 / (800) 801-4182, or email Robyn Burnett at Robyn.Burnett@ bestcareeap.org. The Best Care’s Educational Services Catalog is available online at www.bestcareeap.org/uploads/PDF/2020Educational-Services-Catalog-FINAL.pdf. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Nebraska City Area Economic Development Corporation Joins Omaha Chamber Coalition The Greater Omaha Chamber Economic Development Partnership, a program of the Greater Omaha Chamber, announced recently that Nebraska City Area Economic Development Corporation (NCAEDC) had joined the coalition as its newest member.

This addition expands the successful economic development program into a seven-county alliance, along with Pottawattamie, Cass, Washington, Dodge, Douglas, and Sarpy County.

NCAEDC works to enhance the quality of life in Nebraska City and Otoe County through industrial recruitment and retention, business development, entrepreneurship, leadership development, and downtown redevelopment. The addition of NCAEDC to the Greater Omaha Chamber Economic Development Partnership enhances the coalition by offering more available sites and buildings, more convenience for the partnership’s clients, and more resources for the partnership itself.

“We see many great opportunities that will help grow this regional economy,” said Dan Mauk, NCAEDC’s executive director. “Nebraska City and Otoe County offer some key resources and infrastructure for future business development. We’re going to benefit from the Partnership’s strong national and international marketing efforts and be able to connect with companies we otherwise would never see.”

The Greater Omaha Economic Development Partnership was designed to be a one-stop source for information on business, investment, and employment in the seven-county area. The regionalized partnership operates as a comprehensive resource, driving growth and championing collaboration. For more information, visit www.omahachamber.org.

DECEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 9

BUSINESS NEWS Pinnacle Bank Holds Ribbon Cutting for New Branch Location at 84th and Dodge

Local Toastmasters Chapter to Host Handling Hecklers Workshop December 11

Pinnacle Bank celebrated the opening of their newest branch location with a ribbon cutting ceremony with the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce at 5 p.m. on September 12. The newest bank is located at 8340 W. Dodge Rd. Pinnacle Bank Chairman Sid Dinsdale used the ribbon cutting as an opportunity to give back by donating $5,000 to the Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Foundation.

The Chairman thanked all attendees by saying, “Today, thanks to your support, we not only celebrate a ribbon cutting, but a deeper, more human element.”

The Greater Communicators Club 2114, a local Toastmasters club, will host a Handling Hecklers workshop on December 11 from 6 to 7 p.m. at 3405 S. 11th St. in Council Bluffs. Handling Hecklers is for anyone who would like to learn valuable skills in dealing with a difficult crowd or audience. The event is part of a four-part series that kicked off on November 20 with a workshop titled Listening to Understand.

Subsequent installments of the series include Preparing Presentations on January 8 followed by Words that Win on February 12.

The Greater Communicators Club 2114 upholds the traditions of Toastmasters International in creating a safe and enjoyable place to learn, grow, and hone public speaking skills for work and pleasure.

The club is built on good camaraderie, close friendships, and mutual interests through which club members are able to learn from one another and appreciate the diverse experiences that unite them under the Toastmaster’s umbrella. Visit their Facebook page (@ club2114) to learn more.

Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of meeting locations. The organization has more than 292,000 memberships in more than 14,350 clubs in 122 countries. For more information about Toastmasters International visit www.toastmasters.org.

The new location is a full-service bank for business and personal accounts and lending. It features a 24-hour exterior ATM as well as a drive-thru. The building itself is over 16,000 square feet, including 11,000 square feet of available space for business tenants and a shared conference room. Pinnacle Bank has grown from a single bank in Palmer, NE to a banking powerhouse that has 151 locations in seven states. The third and fourth generation of Dinsdales are continuing and growing the legacy that George and Tom Dinsdale started in 1938.

To contact Pinnacle Bank, visit their website at pinnbank.com or call the 84th and Dodge location at (402) 391-3500.

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BUSINESS NEWS

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Coldwell Banker REA Opens New Office in Sarpy County Coldwell Banker REA and the Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce celebrated Coldwell’s new office location at 11425 S. 72nd St., STE 103 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on September 20. Coldwell provided guests tours, food, and drinks.

Coldwell Banker has been helping people find their dream homes for over 100 years. They have a global real estate network of approximately 3,000 independently owned and operated franchised broker offices in 43 countries and territories with more than 86,000 affiliated sales professionals. The Omaha location has been open since 1980 and has been constantly changing to adapt to Omaha’s rapid-paced real estate industry. Part of that change is their new location. They want to be able to serve more people and grow their team to meet the demand for real estate agents in the area. Coldwell is committed to excellence of service to both buyers and sellers.

To learn more about Coldwell Banker REA, check out their website at coldwellbankeromaha.com. You can also visit their Facebook page (@coldwellbankerrea) or call (402) 592-9200.

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Buildertrend Recognized by Deloitte as One of America’s Fastest-Growing Tech Companies Buildertrend, the leading provider of cloud-based software for homebuilders, remodelers, and specialty contractors, recently announced it is the sole Nebraska-based company to be recognized as one of the fastest-growing technology companies in America on Deloitte’s Technology Fast 500™.

Now in its 25th year, Deloitte’s Technology Fast 500 provides a ranking of the fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences and energy tech companies—both public and private—in North America. Technology Fast 500 award winners are selected based on percentage fiscal year revenue growth from 2015 to 2018.

Over the past three years, Buildertrend has achieved revenue growth of more than 240% to become the #1 software that home builders and remodelers trust to manage their businesses. Nearly 1 million users have chosen Buildertrend since 2006 to transform their operations while reducing delays, eliminating communication errors, and increasing customer satisfaction on more than 2 million jobs.

Buildertrend’s all-in-one solution serves the needs of residential and light commercial contractors, helping builders save thousands in change orders, standardize scheduling and workflows, and improve customer communication—enabling them to manage more jobs and run leaner and more efficient businesses.

In addition, Buildertrend is constantly introducing new and innovative features to support contractors throughout every stage of construction—from pre-sale to project management. For example, the company recently announced a partnership with Rocket Loans to simplify financing for contractors and homeowners within the platform, and earlier this year it rolled out plug-and-play integration with QuickBooks and Xero for real-time accounting visibility.

Other major enhancements released in 2019 include greater reporting capabilities, new time management features, and the ability to quickly pay subcontractors directly—all available within Buildertrend’s cloud-based app.

To learn more about Buildertrend’s innovative and award-winning platform, visit buildertrend.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Concentric Corporation Partners with Open Door Mission for Project Santa C o n c e n t r i c C o r p o ra t i o n i s excited to take part in Open Door Mission’s Project Santa this holiday season to collect toys for children in need! December 1–18, Concentric will be collecting toys in their office, located at 14216 Dayton Cir., STE 1, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Toys needed for Project Santa include new toddler toys, ear buds, puzzles, art sets for all ages, Lego sets, board games, puzzles, dolls, and more. A few spare dollars could provide hours of joy and holiday cheer to a child this Christmas.

Open Door Mission is a Gospel Rescue Mission that meets the needs of individuals and families while inspiring hope for lasting change. Through Project Santa, they are able to serve over 6,000 children during the holidays, making sure they have gifts to open Christmas morning. Each day, Open Door Mission’s campus offers 917 safe shelter beds to homeless men, women, and children; serves over 3,500 nutritious meals; and provides preventative measures to more than 1,000 people living in poverty.

Concentric Corporation is bringing back the fundamentals of recruiting, which starts with relationships. Concentric believes in strengthening teams, building healthier companies, and increasing employee retention. They are all about placing the right people in the right place at the right time, and they specialize in executive, management, information technology, and sales and marketing positions. To view a full list of toys needed for the drive or to learn more about Concentric Corporation’s services, please visit their website at concentriccorp.com or call (402) 991-8400.

DECEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 11

BUSINESS NEWS ProCare Collision Center Expands to Larger Facility, Celebrates with Ribbon Cutting

Apartment Association of Nebraska to Host “A Day of Leasing” Workshop in Omaha

On October 2, the Sarpy Chamber of Commerce held a ribboncutting ceremony at ProCare Collision Center to celebrate the grand opening of their new facility located at 8420 G. St. The decision to relocate was a result of the team’s growing need for a larger work space. These expansion efforts doubled the size of ProCare’s previous collision center to about 10,000 square feet in the new facility.

Owners Kim and Scott Jones welcomed almost 120 people to the celebration. Along with Chamber representatives and members, the ProCare Collision Center opened their new doors to partners, friends, neighbors, and family to enjoy food and drinks, live music, drawings, games, and more. The event was sponsored by some of ProCare Collision Center’s amazing vendors, including PPG Paints; ColorVision; dentsmart, Inc.; Enterprise; Brian Barry Allstate Insurance Agency; and Woodhouse Auto Family.

ProCare Collision Center is proud to be a locally-owned and independent business. Scott Jones has served the Omaha community for over 36 years, and he opened ProCare six years ago. With a focus on honesty, professionalism, and top-notch service, Scott and his team will do what it takes to exceed your expectations and get you back on the road safely and efficiently after a collision. Learn more online at www.procarecollisioncenter.com or call (402) 339-9889.

The Apartment Association of Nebraska (AAN) will host a workshop titled A Day of Leasing on January 16 at the AAN Development Center, 4862 S. 96th St., in Omaha. This interactive day-long class will last from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Attendees will be given the tools they need for a successful 2020 leasing year. Registration is required and costs $45 for AAN members; $75 for non-members. Registration includes lunch and the chance to win great prizes. The seminar, presented by CLASS, Inc., will cover phone call techniques and etiquette, leasing logistics, closing, follow up, and more.

CLASS is a lease up specialist from the Atlanta area known for quickly, efficiently, and professionally assisting property management companies in leasing up. CLASS has over 30 years of experience helping apartment owners and operators increase occupancy while also accelerating the lease-ups.

Founded in 2002 by a group of property managers and owners, AAN actively works to organize and conduct educational programs, seminars, and other education forums for the benefit of their members and all members of the multi-family rental housing industry.

For more information about the Apartment Association of Nebraska and their upcoming programs, visit aaneb.org. To register for A Day of Leasing in Omaha, contact Gretchen Arroyo, education coordinator for AAN, at gretchen@aaneb.org / (402) 509-7500.

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BUSINESS NEWS Modern Work Suites & Studios to Host Holiday Networking Mixxer December 10 Modern Work Suites & Studios, a 60s-inspired business ecosystem that has become home to many local businesses in Omaha, is excited to host a holiday Networking Mixxer on Tuesday, December 10, from 4 to 7 p.m. Guests will not only enjoy an open bar and a chance to interact with other professionals in the community, but also live music by Michael Lyons. This event is open to anyone—show up with business cards and your holiday spirit! RSVP is requested to give the Modern Work team a heads up on how many people to expect.

Located at 8790 F St., Modern Work Suites & Studios offers modern and innovative private offices in its 50,000-square-foot space. With the belief that people should love where they work, Modern Work is designed to inspire, motivate, and optimize the day-to-day work experience for its tenants. You won’t find another business community in Omaha like it! Take a virtual tour online at modernworksuites.com. To RSVP for Modern Work’s upcoming holiday mixxer, contact Kate Gallagher, on-site manager, at (531) 600-6901.

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Handyman Connection Launches New Location in Omaha Handyman Connection, a home repair company in operation for more than 25 years, recently announced that it has opened its newest franchise in Omaha. Handyman Connection of West Omaha provides home renovation and restoration services to the communities of Boys Town, Elkhorn, Gretna, Papillion, La Vista, and Omaha. The new location is owned and operated by local entrepreneurs, Dave Fisch and Carolyn Fleming.

A resident of Omaha for nearly two decades, Dave is a veteran of the United States Air Force, where he served as an Air Force pilot and Public Affairs officer. In addition to leadership skills developed in the Air Force, Dave brings years of experiences in sales and operational management. Carolyn has family roots in Nebraska and brings expertise in sales, business development and advertising. Carolyn will lead craftsmen recruitment and marketing efforts for the location.

“I’ve never considered self-employment before, but after a recruiter contacted me about the opportunity to franchise with Handyman Connection, I began to welcome the idea. Once I met the people, I grew to fall in love with the brand,” said Dave. “I’ve taken a leap and I’m glad I did. Entrepreneurship is a major step, but Handyman Connection has supplied me with the tools and resources to be successful. I’m enjoying helping those in need of repairs and installations that may include deck repair, drywall, painting, window and door replacement, just to name a few. We’re excited to be serving our local community.”

In addition to fulfilling local projects, Handyman Connection of West Omaha will seek to be actively involved in give-back initiatives such as Habitat for Humanity, Omaha Food Bank, Northern Plains Boxer Rescue, and others. To request a free, no-obligation project estimate, contact Handyman Connection at (402) 819-4545 or visit HandymanConnection.com/West-Omaha. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Right at Home Joins Free Wheelchair Mission on 10-Day Trip to Ecuador Members of Right at Home’s corporate team recently joined their national partner Free Wheelchair Mission on a 10-day trip to Ecuador. Together, the group assembled and delivered 250 wheelchairs to people in need to improve their quality of life with the transforming gift of mobility.

The Omaha-based franchise offers in-home companionship and personal care and assistance to seniors and adults with a disability who want to continue to live independently. Right at Home is committed to improving the lives of people who can’t do it for themselves, and this commitment aligns perfectly with the goals and mission of the Free Wheelchair project.

Right at Home exceeded their goal for 2019 and raised $94,000— enough money for two shipping containers of 500 wheelchairs each. It costs approximately $80 to assemble, ship, and deliver one wheelchair. Since 2016, the Right at Home franchise has raised $345,000 and provided over 4,300 wheelchairs to people in need.

Since its founding 18 years ago, Free Wheelchair Mission has provided over one million wheelchairs in 93 countries. Free Wheelchair Mission is working now to provide two million wheelchairs by 2025.

Founded in 1995, Right at Home offers in-home companionship and personal care and assistance to seniors and adults with a disability who want to continue to live independently. Local Right at Home offices are independently owned and operated and directly employ and supervise all caregiving staff, each of whom is thoroughly screened, trained, and bonded/insured prior to entering a client’s home. Right at Home’s global office is based in Omaha, NE, with more than 500 franchise locations in the U.S. and seven other countries.

For more information, visit www.rightathome.net. To find out more about franchising opportunities, visit www.rightathomefranchise.com.

DECEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 13

BUSINESS NEWS Empowerment Network Presents 9th Annual Christmas in the Village Celebration

McGrath North Ranked Among Top Law Firms in Chambers USA

For the ninth year in a row, the Empowerment Network is excited to invite all of Omaha to their Christmas in the Village c o m m u n i t y c e l eb ra t i o n o n December 7. This family-friendly event will take place from noon to 5 p.m. at 24th and Lake St. The Empowerment Network is proud to have partnered with over 100 local businesses, organizations, and sponsors to provide free carriage rides, photos with Santa, outdoor concerts, and more. There will also be holiday boutique shops open to shop at.

Empowerment Network works collectively to unite and transform Omaha into a great city in every zip code and neighborhood. They united in order to improve the quality of life of African Americans, North Omaha residents, and citizens of the Greater Omaha area.

Their goal is to close long-standing gaps in employment, education, housing, and other quality of life factors that have been traditionally based on race and geographical segregation. They host events like the Christmas in the Village in order to promote and sustain community engagement and empowerment.

If you’d like to learn more about Empowerment Network, visit their website at empoweromaha.com. Remember to keep track of all their future events by following their Facebook (@EmpowermentNetwork).

McGrath North is pleased to announce that Chambers USA – America’s Leading Lawyers for Business has recognized the firm and its attorneys for excellence in providing legal services to its clients in the following practice areas: corporate/commercial, litigation, labor and employment, and real estate. Chambers describes McGrath North as a full-service firm, widely renowned for its impressive strength of transactional and litigation offerings.

In the current ranking guide, 15 McGrath North attorneys received special recognition with eight of them achieving the highest rank of Band 1 or better and designated as leaders in their respective fields. Sources interviewed by Chambers highlight the firm for its “numerous senior partners capable of managing complex transactions,” and for “their top-notch attorneys who are attuned to our needs and provide great advice.” Clients and peers praised individual attorneys during interviews with Chambers USA researchers.

McGrath North is a business-focused law firm supporting clients throughout the Midlands and the United States. The firm is proud to be based in Omaha and they appreciate the broad client base that they serve, including Fortune 500 companies, small- and medium-size businesses, individuals, entrepreneurs, and start-ups.

The industries they serve consist of food, agriculture, commodities, industrial manufacturing, insurance, energy, financial institutions, hospitality, technology, and more. To learn more, visit www. mcgrathnorth.com.

Building Local Partnerships

New Cornhusker Bank full service location opening early 2020 at 11102 Blondo Street.

David Shiffermiller, Jim Prchal, Emily Petersen, and Allen Chaffee at 111th and Blondo building construction site.

Partnering with Prchal Petersen Group Allen Chaffee, Omaha Market President 402-779-1420 | CornhuskerBank.com

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BUSINESS NEWS PJ Morgan Highlights New Office Building in the Heart of Elkhorn

Clearwater Counseling Partners with Project Harmony

Regi Powell with PJ Morgan invites you to settle your business into a newly-constructed professional office building located just north of Veterans Drive on 205th in Elkhorn. Slated for an early 2020 opening, this space is ideal for medical, light retail, and independent office use.

Up to $30 per square foot of tenant improvements will be made for qualified leases signed during construction.

“This building is located in a great location—close to Dodge and surrounded by Elkhorn’s up-and-coming retail district. Whoever signs a lease here will love being a part of this close-knit community,” said Regi, commercial real estate agent.

The office building will be 12,650 square feet with ample parking for customers. Businesses will join P&P Insurance, a Farmers Insurance Group agency owned by Eric and Jen Petersen. Eric and Jen are residents of Elkhorn with their four children. The team at P&P Insurance offers auto, home, life, recreational vehicle, and business insurance.

PJ Morgan offers commercial sales, leasing, and property management; residential sales, leasing, and property management; business brokerage; and real estate auction services. To learn more, visit pjmorgan.com. For further leasing information, contact Regi at (402) 885-9929 / rpowell@ pjmorgan.com.

To provide services to children in need, Clearwater Counseling, PC has recently partnered with Project Harmony through its Connections program in which c hildren are matc hed with community therapists who are trained in evidence-based practices and provide ongoing follow-up to families, referral sources, and providers. Project Harmony established the Connections program to address mental health needs in children and to seek appropriate solutions that help each child reach his or her fullest potential.

As Connections providers, Clearwater Counseling’s CEO/Co-owner Kayla Leddy and mental health therapist Jessica Frenzen complete monthly progress reports and session attendance checks and establish ongoing communication with the mental health coordinator. Through the program, therapists also receive evidence-based practice training.

Children with behavioral health symptoms can be identified early, and if effective services can be offered, a child can get back on track developmentally and start living their fullest and safest life in school, at home, and in the community.

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

RDG Planning & Design’s Project, Menno Haven Awarded IWBI Certification RDG Planning & Design, one of the nation’s leading creative firms based in Omaha, announced that one of their projects, the Menno Haven Rehabilitation Center, has been officially WELL Certified to the Gold level by The International WELL Building Institute (IWBI). Menno Haven is the first skilled nursing project worldwide to receive this certification.

The WELL Building Standard is a performance-based system combining best practices in design and construction with evidence-based scientific research including measuring, certifying, and monitoring features of the building that impact human health and wellbeing. It took seven years of rigorous research and development working with leading physicians, scientists, and industry professionals for this standard to become established.

RDG Partner Jay Weingarten, AIA, WELL AP, discusses the importance of implementing WELL Building Standards with their projects: “A focus on promoting optimum health in the projects we design, in our office practices, and in our individual lifestyles is central to RDG’s culture. It has been exciting to bring our passion and the depth of research behind the WELL Building Standard to life within a skilled nursing environment to serve Menno Haven’s mission of nurturing the human spirit. We can all benefit from a commitment to our own health and the health of our communities similar to that which Menno Haven is demonstrating here.”

Menno Haven is a nonprofit Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) provider with over 50 years of care and service. With the development of this wellness-focused rehabilitation center, they are providing resources for seniors navigating their own healthcare and getting them engaged in healthy lifestyles. Based in historic Chambersburg, PA, Menno Haven operates two fully-integrated communities featuring a wide range of independent living options. Learn more at www.mennohaven.org/rehab.

RDG Planning & Design’s multifaceted network of professionals in architecture, artistry, planning, landscape architecture, multimedia, and interior design work create meaningful projects. RDG maintains a personable, collaborative approach that reflects its Midwestern roots and commitment to community. With more than 40 years of experience in senior living, RDG is continually recognized as a national leader within the industry. Check out more of the work RDG has done by going online to rdgusa.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Tell us a little about your business. - Clearwater Counseling is a mental health services provider with locations in Omaha and Grand Island. The private practice was founded on the idea that all individuals deserve access to quality mental health care in order to live happier and healthier lives. We provide individual, family, and couple’s counseling to a wide variety of clients. We see individuals from ages 6–60 with various mental health diagnoses.

I really enjoy working with such a wide range of clients, as it increases my experience and knowledge as a therapist.

How did you get started in the business. - I joined Clearwater Counseling in July of 2019 as a mental health therapist. My sister, Nikki Frenzen, is a co-owner of Clearwater Counseling, alongside co-owner Kayla Leddy. Nikki and I have always shared a passion for working in the field of mental health, so when Kayla and Nikki approached me about joining their Clearwater Counseling team, I couldn’t have been more excited! Nikki and Kayla have built Clearwater Counseling into the exact type of counseling agency that I’ve always wanted to work for. I felt so lucky and honored to be presented with the opportunity to work for this business.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Working in the field of mental health can be so rewarding but also challenging. I pride myself on giving my clients my full attention, but it can be challenging to remember to focus on my own self-care.

2019-08-28 2:43 PM

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - When I graduated with my master’s degree in social work, clinical concentration in August of 2018, I felt like I had accomplished one of my major goals that I had set for myself. It also meant that I was now able to do my dream job, something I’m really passionate about.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love to be with family and friends spending time outdoors. I also really enjoy going to concerts and watching Husker sports!

Mornings with Dave Wingert

Middays with Jessica Dol

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What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Look for something positive in each day, even if some days you have to look a little harder.” I think we often get stuck focusing on a lot of the negative or hard things that we’re going through in life. If we try to restructure our thinking to look for the positives, it might make even the hardest of days a little more manageable.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I have a few—I think it would be really rewarding to be a nurse or a doctor. I would also love to have more creative abilities, either as a musician or an artist!

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What is your favorite local restaurant? - LeadBelly. I’ve been living in the Lincoln/Omaha area for a couple years and love that they have a location in both cities!

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If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? Phone: (308) 210-8487; Email: jfrenzen@clearwatercounselingne. org; Website: clearwatercounselingpc.org.

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What is your favorite movie? - A few of my favorite movies are The Notebook, A Walk to Remember, and The Best of Me—I basically love any cheesy Nicholas Sparks-like movie!

Strictly Business DECEMBER 2019

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CHRIS

Chris Rush

9ROUND FITNESS Meet Chris Rush, gym manager at 9Round Fitness in Papillion.

Tell us a little about your business. - 9Round is much more than a 30-minute kickboxing fitness gym. As trainers, we understand that every member has their own fitness journey and in order to assist them on this journey we need to take a genuine interest in their specific fitness goals. That’s what I love most about 9Round— the opportunity I receive each day to make a difference in someone’s life. Convenience also plays a huge role in the return on investment of the gym. Finding time in the day to workout can be stressful. In order to reduce this stress, we have no set class times. Every three minutes throughout the day, a new circuit starts so members can drop in anytime to crush their 30-minute workout. All members receive unlimited sessions of a full-body workout that changes every day, which helps avoid settling into a routine. Kickboxing fitness may sound intimidating, but I promise that nervous feeling will immediately be erased when you are greeted with a smile by one of our Champion Trainers.

How did you get started in the business? - In all honesty, a main reason I began working part-time at 9Round was to receive the free membership. I had completed a few workouts at one of the clubs in Lincoln and immediately became addicted. When I heard the Vettel brothers were opening a new gym in Papillion, I reached out and applied for a trainer position working a few hours each week. Those short shifts soon became the highlight of my week as I found myself wanting to pick up a few more hours each week. My full-time job alongside 9Round was in sales. I enjoyed the sales job, but I realized I was more passionate about discussing 9Round with my coworkers than I was at selling our products. This is why it was an easy decision when Trevor Vettel, one of our owners, offered me the lead trainer position in Papillion.

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What has been your most important achievement professionally? As trainers, we consistently discuss how important it is to keep specific fitness goals in mind as they progress through our program. For this reason, it’s tough for me to pinpoint my greatest achievement because our members provide me with so many. Every time a member reveals they’ve achieved one of their fitness goals, it solidifies to me that I chose the correct profession.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - I’ve always been a very competitive individual. Tim, Todd, and Trevor Vettel provide an amazing work environment that allows me to professionally develop this competitiveness in a positive way. In total, the Vettel brothers own five gyms within the 9Round Franchise. One of these gyms, located in Manhattan, KS, is consistently a top-10 gym within the franchise worldwide. Our Papillion gym recently finished top-20 in the world, so my biggest challenge is to not only crack the top-10, but also to surpass our fellow gym in Manhattan.

Who inspires you? - My mother is my biggest inspiration in life. Similar to myself, she’s always worked in a profession that’s heavily reliant on strong customer service. Not only does she inspire me with her relentless work ethic, but also in her ability to always display kindness in any situation. I was raised to always treat others how I want to be treated and that’s helped me more than any professional tactic I’ve learned in my career.

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “C’mon N’ Ride It” by Quad City DJ’s. This also happens to be my favorite song to workout to.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?

- Phone: (402) 415-2970; Email: olsondrpapillionne@9round.com; Website: www.9round.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

DECEMBER 2019 Strictly Business

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KEN

Ken Incontro

CLOSET & STORAGE CONCEPTS Meet Ken Incontro, president of Closet & Storage Concepts in Omaha.

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Tell us a little about your business. Closet & Storage Concepts is a locally-owned premier provider of customized closet and storage solutions. Our designers come to your home or office to help you create the perfect design for your project. All of our residential and commercial products are manufactured in our Omaha factory to your specific needs. Our beautiful design center makes color, finish, and hardware selections easy and fun. We just love to have people stop by our showroom and see the nice selection of closets, pantries, drop zones, garages, bars, wall beds, pet centers, butler’s pantries, laundry rooms, kid’s closets, as well as, office break rooms, copy rooms, and furniture.

How did you get started in the business? - My wife Cindi and I wanted a business that would provide an opportunity for both of us to utilize our different skills and grow something together.

The company was a perfect combination for our construction and design backgrounds.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Making sure we always have more money coming in than going out!

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- We took a formerly empty building, assembled a team of very talented people, and built a very cool showroom and manufacturing facility. We are having a great time watching the company grow!

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Tell us a little about your family. - Cindi and I have five children, a son-in-law, and a beautiful granddaughter named Stella.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Golf, golf, golf.

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Who inspires you? - My parents. My dad was honored with a Purple Heart and bronze star in WWll. He had a huge heart for his country, his family and an incredible work ethic. My mom has always been the rock of our family and has the amazing ability to know what everyone around her needs and provide it.

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

Which talent would you most like to have? - Singing.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - High school football coach.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho and The Boys’ Crusade: The American Infantry in Northwestern Europe, 1944-1945 by Paul Fussell.

What is your favorite movie? - Rocky.

What is your favorite TV show? - Seinfeld.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - It’s a three-way tie between Mangia Italiana, Rivera’s, and Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Robin Williams.

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If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Come visit our new showroom located at 10908 John Galt Blvd.! Phone: (402) 885-8581; Email: ken@cscomaha.com; Website: closetandstorageconcepts.com/omaha-nebraska. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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JENNIFER

Jennifer Loukota

MCGILL RESTORATION Meet Jennifer Loukota (Baldwin), an estimator and project manager at McGill Restoration.

Tell us a little about your business. - McGill Restoration is a large-scale restoration, repair, and construction company in Omaha and Lincoln founded on four main sectors: masonry restoration, parking garage and stadiums, infrastructure, and industrial. The different sectors of restoration that we specialize in allow our employees to be cross trained on multiple repair techniques. McGill Restoration gives employees every opportunity to better themselves through education and on the job training.

This investment in continuing education is vital in restoration as techniques and tools are ever evolving. We focus on the community by restoring vital infrastructure (highways, bridges, and parking decks) and historical buildings, improving our modern city while revitalizing our living history.

How did you get started in the business? - I started with McGill Restoration in 2018 after working as a project manger for an industrial company. I decided to make a change when the monotony of managing the same type of projects became unsatisfying. I love to learn, and McGill Restoration was willing to give me the opportunity to learn, estimate, and manage projects.

In the construction industry, projects are never the same (even if you think they may be) and the industry is ever evolving, making this job the perfect fit for utilizing my organizational skills and fulfilling my need to constantly learn something new!

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What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?

- The biggest challenge I’ve faced professionally is earning the respect of my co-workers. I’ve always been drawn to fields that tend to be male-dominated (industrial and construction). Due to this, I must work twice as hard to prove I can play in their arena.

I like the challenge.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband Joe and I just moved to Lincoln in early 2019. We are enjoying exploring our new home and falling in love with all there is to see and do in the area.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently.” I fail at something every day.

In the restoration business you are constantly trying new things (new products, new repair techniques, etc.) and each time we try new things there is the potential to discover a more efficient/ effective process or something that does not work. Failure leads to breakthroughs and that makes us better. For me, the failures allow me the opportunity to learn.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - RISE Lincoln. I have always found it important to surround myself with like-minded, strong, successful women. As a female in a maledominated industry, these relationships are vital to being successful because they allow me the opportunity to connect with other businesswomen in the community and experience share. The RISE community has so much to offer businesswomen, from coaching, to leadership discussions, to giving back to the community.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - The Boiler Room.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Phone: (402) 438‑4110; Email: JBaldwin@mcgillrestoration. com; Website: www.mcgillrestoration.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

DECEMBER 2019 Strictly Business

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Strictly Business DECEMBER 2019

BRANDI

Brandi Ballan

WEST GATE BANK Meet Brandi Ballan, business banking solutions officer at West Gate Bank®.

Tell us a little about your business. - West Gate Bank is a family-owned community bank, founded in 1968 in Lincoln. Community banking has been our focus for over 50 years. We have seven locations in Lincoln and three locations in the Omaha Metro. West Gate Bank is a full-service bank, so whether you need a checking/savings account, commercial loan, mortgage loan or anything in between, we are here for you!

How did you get started in the business? - I started my career in the title business and quickly figured out that it wasn’t for me, so I moved into banking. I started my banking career almost 15 years ago. I’ve done a variety of things during that time, including loan assistant, business banking, private banking, and cash management.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - I’ve been through two bank sales. It’s never easy dealing with a change in ownership and all of the uncertainty that comes with it. I’m glad I stayed through the change-over because I wouldn’t be where I am today if I hadn’t.

Tell us a little about your family. - I’ve been married to my husband Scot for 13 years. We have two amazing kids, Brooklyn (11) and Brogan (7). We live in Elkhorn. The kids keep us busy with all of their sports and activities!

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

- Meeting my husband. My life was headed in a different direction before I met him. I know he was put in my life for a reason and am thankful for him everyday!

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love to go shopping with my daughter, play golf if the weather is nice, and spend time with my family.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I was the drum major for my high school marching band.

Who inspires you? - My parents have always been my inspiration.

They taught me what hard work and dedication will get you from a young age. My kids also inspire me daily. I want to instill those same values and work ethic in them as they grow up.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Teleportation!

I love to travel, so it would be amazing if I could snap my fingers and be where ever I wanted to go.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I’ve always been a sports nut. I would love to have Erin Andrews’ job.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I’ve been involved with Completely Kids for the last five years. They serve the families in the lowest income part of Omaha. They provide after school programs and family services at 14 locations. Completely Kids was the first nonprofit to offer a weekend food program. Being able to make a difference in these kids lives has been life changing for me.

What is your favorite TV show? - Million Dollar Listing or Dancing with the Stars.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Rachel Hollis, the author of my favorite book, Girl Stop Apologizing.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?

- Phone: (402) 758-8717; Email: bballan@westgate.bank; Website: westgate.bank. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

TIMOTHY

Timothy Siragusa

ACADIAN GRILLE DUNDEE Meet Timothy Siragusa, manager of Acadian Grille Dundee.

Tell us a little about your business. - We are a locally-owned scratch kitchen specializing in Cajun dishes such as red beans and rice with andouille sausage, gumbo, and fried catfish. We have a full-service bar featuring wine, local beers, and classic cocktails. Sister to the original Acadian Grille location in Miracle Hills, our Dundee location serves up almost all of the same favorites but also has an industrial smoker that allows us to make delicious brisket and prime rib options. We’re excited to have an in-house band every Thursday and Saturday evening and our happy hour is 3–6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

How did you get started in the business? - I started out washing dishes in the Jesuit kitchen at Creighton Prep as part of my work study. This was the summer after 8th grade. One day, the DJ broke in on 1290 KOIL to announce John Lennon had been shot. I remember having my arms in a big tub of pots when that happened.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Making the leap from server to manager. I credit Ron Samuelson and the Halbert brothers for mentoring me through that change while working under them at Mode De Vie. Tell us a little about your family. - I am the oldest of five kids. I live with my brother and his partner in the St. Thomas More neighborhood.

The rest of us are all within a 10-minute drive of each other’s houses. I’m the cool uncle who shows up with pizzas on Monday night and watches old episodes of Mystery Science Theatre 3000 with the kids.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - In 2017-18, I spent three months living in Brooklyn and performing at a theater in the East Village. I worked with some people I’ve known for a very long time. I got reviewed in the New Yorker and the New York Times.

It was the peak of my life as an artist. The hard lesson I learned was that I could move to New York and be a working actor but I would still have to tend bar and wait tables regardless of what level in the acting game I was at. When I came home, I was ready to shift my focus. There’s a lot of crossover between making theater and running a restaurant.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Vera Mercer calls me a chameleon. I’m not one to argue with Vera, so I’ll go with that.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I’m a member of Friends of The Public Library. I believe a healthy library system is the backbone of a democratic society as it serves everyone regardless of race, class, income, or nationality. In addition, The Union for Contemporary Art is an ambitious young nonprofit led by the luminous Brigitte McQueen Shew and dedicated to creating positive social change in their North Omaha neighborhood. For many years I was also a teaching artist with Arts In Motion, teaching social skills to fifth graders through ballroom dance. Their work is small scale, understated, and vastly important.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - Recently, I enjoyed The Woman From The Black Lagoon by Mallory O’Meara about the life of Milicent Patrick, a multihyphenate artist in midcentury Hollywood. At present, I’m reading Kurt Anderson’s Fantasyland, How America Went Haywire.

What is your favorite TV show? - The Boys, The Good Place, and Last Week Tonight with John Oliver.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? Phone: (402) 991-1552; Email: timothy.siragusa@gmail.com; Website: acadiangrille.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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FOSTER CARE: CEDARS (402) 436-5437

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CEDARS Receives $235K Grant to Provide Support to Pregnant and Parenting Young People Experiencing Homelessness CEDARS, a local nonprofit serving children, youth, and families, recently received a $235,000 grant from the Federal Runaway and Homeless Youth Act to provide housing and additional support to pregnant and parenting young people and young adults experiencing homelessness. This new program will be an extension to the continuum of services CEDARS already provides to youth in our community. CEDARS transitional living programs, which provide 24-hour support to young people and young adults, focus on teaching independent living skills as youth transition from care to independence. Youth spend time working toward education and employment goals, as well as life skills and developing positive community connections.

This new CEDARS program will focus on helping young women who are experiencing homelessness while at the same time pregnant or parenting young children of their own. Securing housing and additional supports for these young women is a priority for CEDARS, as well as the Lincoln community. Lincoln has identified eliminating homelessness among youth and young families as a priority, as these youth are at risk for many negative well-being outcomes.

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“With this new funding, CEDARS can strengthen our approach to how we serve vulnerable children, youth and families in our community,” says CEDARS President Jim Blue, “but it is the support of our friends near and far that provides the critical assistance necessary to help kids in crisis and build strong families.”

Each young family accepted into this program will work closely with several CEDARS staff who will work on positive role modeling, increased levels of youth involvement in goal setting and community, and supportive outreach with the goal of promoting long-term economic independence and prevent intergenerational poverty.

CEDARS has been supporting children, youth, and their families for over 70 years and remains committed to helping kids in crisis and building strong families. This year, CEDARS will deliver services to over 2,000 children and their families. As it was when CEDARS was founded in 1947, CEDARS mission is to help children and youth achieve safety, stability and enduring family relationships. For more information or to find out how you can help, call (402) 434-5437 or visit www.cedarskids.org.

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PERSONNEL NEWS The Set Me Free Project Welcomes Summer Woolsey The Set Me Free Project announced recently that Summer Woolsey, an AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer, has joined their team for a full year as an event and communications coordinator. The team has already benefitted from her support and willingness to help. They are excited to see all that she will accomplish in this role.

Summer has previously worked as a student services specialist for University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a Peace Corps Education Volunteer. She is valued for her commitment and dedication and her experience in higher education administration, international development, and nonprofit management.

The Set Me Free Project is continually rallying people to the fight against human trafficking through their educational events at schools, community centers, and businesses. To learn more, go online to setmefreeproject.net. Don’t forget to mark your calendars for The Set Me Free Project’s Comedy for Change event on March 26, 2020. Tickets are already available for purchase, and there are various sponsorship opportunities available. To learn more, contact Stephanie Olson at (402) 521-3080 / info@ setmefreeproject.net.

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Ovation Announces New General Manager, Stephanie Grade Stephanie Grade has been named general manager of Ovation Heartwood Preserve, a new active adult lifestyle campus currently under construction in West Omaha. The campus will include a total of 300 residences including independent living, assisted living, and memory care.

Stephanie is a born and raised Nebraskan.

She has a degree in hotel, restaurant, and institutional management from Iowa State University. She’s also a proud mother, wife, and owner of an English Bulldog named Lola. Growing up in Crete, just about an hour outside Omaha, Stephanie looked at life through a different lens. Her passion for exceptional service drew her to the hotel and services industry, allowing her to travel the U.S., open hotels, and serve on the Board of Directors for the Omaha Restaurant Association and Metropolitan Hospitality Association. After 20 years of hospitality experience and award-winning program development, Stephanie has brought her expertise to Ovation Heartwood Preserve.

Ovation Heartwood Preserve offers exceptional, residential living and experiences, as well as innovative technology options that allow guests to communicate with family and the world around them. The campus includes multiple restaurants including the Peony Park Bistro, Millers@Omaha, and 1863 fine dining.

Those interested in learning more about Ovation or meeting Stephanie can visit Ovation’s Reservation Showroom at Pepperwood Village, 573 N. 155th Plaza, STE 573. You can also call (402) 9997900 or visit www.OvationHeartwoodPreserve.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Long-Time ENCAP Employee Ruth Matlock Presented with Spirit of Advocacy Award On November 8, the North Omaha Community Care Council (NOCCC) held its 7th Annual Impact Luncheon.

Eastern Nebraska Community Action Partnership (ENCAP) staff, board, and friends were present to celebrate long-time staff member Ruth Matlock as she received the NOCCC’s Spirit of Advocacy Award. This award recognizes and honors someone who has demonstrated exceptional public service and dedication to the health and wellness of the North Omaha Ms. Ruth (left) and Rev. Portia Community. Ms. Ruth (as so many Cavitt, NOCCC president. know her) has been a cornerstone of ENCAP for 40 years, and she has dedicated her life to serving as a positive and loving guide to thousands of individuals, seniors, youth, and families that have come through ENCAP’s doors and people throughout the North Omaha Community.

“We are grateful for Ms. Ruth’s exceptional service, and we are inspired by her dedication and commitment to others,” said Aaron Bowen, ENCAP executive director. “Ruth cares deeply about North Omaha and the families who call it home. She wants the best for them and will do all it takes to get them the assistance they need to move forward, and to show them she cares. I cannot think of a person more deserving of this award.”

ENCAP is a nonprofit community based organization that has been providing social and human services to people facing poverty in Douglas and Sarpy Counties since 1965. For more information about programs and services go to www.encapnebraska.org or follow the Facebook page (@encapnebraska).

DECEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 23

PERSONNEL NEWS First Responders Foundation Welcomes Jodi Teal as Director of Development

Business Ethics Alliance Welcomes Charlie Goracke as Development Associate

First Responders Foundation welcomed Jodi Teal to the team in June as the new director of development. Jodi holds a degree in Human Resources and Family Science from University of Nebraska at Omaha and a postbaccalaureate Certificate of Paralegal Studies from the College of St. Mary. She has also completed UNO’s Certificate in Fundraising Management and Strong Nonprofit Program from the Fremont Area Community Foundation.

Jodi believes in the positive nature of therapies received beyond the clinical setting. She maintains her certification as an equine specialist in Mental Health and Learning and a therapeutic riding instructor certification through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International. She is currently a Board of Director member for the Little Giants Foundation.

Founded in 2009, the First Responders Foundation is a nonprofit social impact organization headquartered in Omaha. The foundation’s mission is to serve and honor all first responders and their families, build appreciation and respect for their work, and enhance public safety.

They carry out their mission by creating and supporting unique programs and events designed to educate and inspire and by providing necessary resources and services to First Responders, their families, and the citizens of the Greater Omaha area. Learn more at www.firstrespondersomaha. org or call (402) 218-1234.

Beverly Kracher, Ph.D., CEO and Executive Director of the Business Ethics Alliance (the Alliance), is pleased to announce the hire of Charlie Goracke as the new development associate. Charlie assists in many areas of the Alliance. He analyzes data, provides research, and compiles donation information for financial records.

In addition, he assists in the Alliance’s social media marketing.

“When I was in business college, I learned that companies can find themselves in ethical dilemmas,” said Charlie. “The Alliance is an organization that could combat that! Working at the Alliance has been a great opportunity for me. I get to learn various areas of business, while making connections with professionals in the Omaha community.”

Charlie is a recent graduate from the University of Nebraska at Omaha with a degree in finance and marketing. He is an Omaha native and likes to make music, travel, play soccer, and skateboard in his free time.

The Greater Omaha Alliance for Business Ethics at Creighton University—the Business Ethics Alliance—is the nation’s leading nonprofit dedicated to city-level business ethics education. Learn more online at www.businessethicsalliance.org.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Cordell & Cordell Appoints Associate Attorney Samantha F. Miller to Omaha Office Cordell & Cordell, the nation’s largest domestic litigation firm focusing on representing men in family law cases, recently hired Associate Attorney Samantha F. Miller in its Omaha office at 13340 California St., STE 200.

Ms. Miller earned her Juris Doctor from the Creighton University School of Law. She is a member of the Nebraska Mediation Association and is a NSBA Volunteer Lawyer. Prior to joining Cordell & Cordell, Ms. Miller practiced family law and personal injury law.

Ms. Miller offers a reassuring presence during the divorce transition and she is dedicated to using her education, training, and experiences to make her client’s situation less stressful.

“My clients can count on me to keep them informed and to know I am approachable,” Ms. Miller said.

Cordell & Cordell has more than 250 attorneys working in more than 100 offices across the United States and in the United Kingdom.

Cordell & Cordell’s innovative approach to family law has garnered national coverage from outlets such as The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Time magazine, CNN, and FOX News. For more information about Cordell & Cordell, please visit CordellCordell. com or call (866) 323-7529.

Center Sphere Welcomes Alex Pearson as National Sales Director Center Sphere is excited to announce the newest member of their corporate team, Alex Pearson, as the national sales director. Alex will be focusing on growing the membership in all areas nationwide and is a great fit for the role.

Alex came to Center Sphere after leading and owning a successful local lawn and landscape company for 15+ years. As an owner, he not only facilitated the operational functions of the business but was able to develop meaningful and long lasting relationships with both his customers and employees.

Increased business knowledge through ownership led him to the understanding of all aspects of business, including marketing, human resources, management, sales, technology and, of course, networking.

Alex enjoys time with his wife Annie and their Australian Shepherd Elbee. He has a passion for fitness, as well as standup comedy and DJ’ing. Alex tends to be very competitive, even if it’s just on his local sand volleyball court during the weekdays. You may reach him at Alex@CenterSphere.com.

Center Sphere is an established network of business professionals whose mission is to share referrals, ideas and resources through genuine relationships. The Omaha network is currently made up of over 50 chapters and 800 members. Learn more online at www. centersphere.com or contact Area Director Lona Anderson at (402) 416-5700 / LonaAnderson@CenterSphere.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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PERSONNEL NEWS The Community Supports Network Names Evan Miller as Council Bluffs Area Director

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The Community Supports Network, Inc. (CSN) announced Evan Miller as area director of their Council Bluffs program. CSN supports people in the community who have intellectual disabilities and/or mental health needs to reach their goals to live, to work, and to contribute to their community. Evan started his career in 2012 as a direct support professional with CSN in Kearney, NE. He comes into the area director position after having held several supervisory roles within CSN. “Those who have been able to work with Evan over the years know the passion he has for ensuring quality outcomes for the people we support. It has been a joy to watch Evan learn and develop into the leader he has become,” said Tiffany Schnittker, CSN’s chief operating officer.

Evan’s goal is to meet the growing demand for intellectual disability and mental health services in the Council Bluffs Area and continue to develop CSN’s valued employees.

In order to meet the demand for services in the community, Mr. Miller stated, “We are looking for committed employees to come on board who are willing to work on a team, strengthen their skill set and abilities, provide compassionate care, and assist the people we support to achieve their individualized goals”.

Learn more about the Community Supports Network, Inc. or how you can join their mission online at at www.thecsnetwork.com.

Paragon IT Professionals Grows NebraskaBased Team with Addition of Jason Randazzo Paragon IT Professionals, one of the most experienced IT staffing and software solutions providers in the Midwest, has welcomed Jason Randazzo to their Nebraska-based team.

Randazzo will serve as an account executive, helping clients find top talent and assisting with staffing and project-based resource needs.

“We are committed to the Nebraska market and believe in investing resources to help ensure we are providing our clients with the services they need,” said Craig Jackman, president and CEO of Paragon IT Professionals. “We look forward to Jason’s contributions. He knows the area well and I’m confident he can help us grow our footprint by providing exceptional service to our clients and consultants.”

Randazzo has worked in Greater Omaha and Lincoln for nearly 15 years. He is an experienced manager with proven success in staffing and prides himself on building and maintaining relationships.

“I look forward to leveraging Paragon’s 22 years of experience in information technology to help clients drive performance through talent acquisition and software solutions,” said Randazzo.

Randazzo lives in Omaha with his wife and three children. When he isn’t at work, he enjoys a good round of golf, but nothing beats a night at home with his growing family.

Paragon IT Professionals, based in Des Moines, helps organizations drive performance through talent acquisition and software solutions. Established in1997 by brothers Craig and Joel Jackman, Paragon has grown to serve three markets throughout the Midwest, and expand its service offerings to include software sales and integration. For more information about Paragon and its services, visit paragonitpros.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

PERSONNEL NEWS Michael Berry Becomes Manager of O’Donnell, Ficenec, Wills & Ferdig, LLP

Millard Business Association Elects New Executive Board for 2020

O’Donnell, Ficenec, Wills & Ferdig, LLP (OFWF) is pleased to announce Michael Berry, CPA, has joined the firm as a manager.

Berry brings accounting and entrepreneurial experience to his new role. Michael’s accounting background is in financial and performance auditing in both the corporate and government arenas in addition to tax compliance and planning. Michael ran his own small business for 12 years, a landscaping company, which he sold in the spring of 2011. Running a successful business gives Michael another layer of business experience that clients benefit from: understanding the needs, demands, and risks undertaken by business owners. The advisory work Michael shares with his clients will be a valuable combination of accounting and tax knowledge married with the grounded common sense of a small business owner.

The Millard Business Association (MBA) recently announced t h e i r exe c u t i ve board of members and members elect for 2020: Jill Sc hoenherr, president; John Drazic, president e l e c t ; To d d Baumbac h, past Jill Schoenherr John Drazic president; Jennifer Toft, vice president; R o x y S t a r k e y, treasurer; and Paula Wilcher, secretary.

Jill Sc hoenherr, executive director at Southwest YMCA and owner of Wild Daisy Bridal, has been an active member of the MBA Todd Baumbach Jennifer Toft for many years.

She has previously served as treasure on the executive board, along with being a member of the Golf Committee and the silent auction chair for the Annual Gala Committee.

John Drazic has been appointed as Roxy Starkey Paula Wilcher president elect. His skills in strategy implementation, operations management, coaching, sales, and conflict resolution have been a great asset to the MBA. John currently leads the WIRED referral group.

MBA’s past president, Todd Baumbach, has done amazing things for the association. He is actively involved in every facet of the MBA, including overseeing the growth of the Millard Business Young Professionals (MBYP) which just launched in the past year. Todd has served as the regional vice president for Primerica for over 26 years.

Jennifer Toft, sales account executive at Lamar Advertising, will continue to enrich the MBA through her role as vice president. Jennifer is very active in the association and the Millard community as a whole. Jennifer serves as one of MBA’s membership chairs, and she is on the committees for ambassadors, Ribstock, the Annual Gala, and Millard Days.

Roxy Starkey has served as treasurer for the MBA since January of 2019, and she looks forward to another year of helping the association manage budgets and donations. Roxy has been working in the accounting field for over 15 years and currently own Books By Roxy, LLC. Her love for helping many local charities, including Project Wee Care, FITGirl Inc, and Taysia Blue Husky and Malamute Rescue, earned her recognition as the Millard Business Association’s 2018 Citizen of the year.

Paula Wilcher, director of marketing and business development at Xcel Roofing, is a motivated and passionate individual. She is excited to bring this energy to the MBA’s executive board.

Connect with the Millard Business Association at info@ millardbusinessassociation.org or go to millardbusinessassociation.org.

DECEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 27

Since 1951, O’Donnell, Ficenec, Wills & Ferdig, LLP, has been more than accounting. They view every client relationship like a partnership and truly believe the firms’ success is a result of the clients’ success. They take pride in giving assurance that the professional service a client receives comes from years of advanced training, technical experience, and financial acumen, and they provide the highest quality of personalized auditing, tax, valuation, accounting, and consulting services in response to the clients’ specific and personal needs. To learn more, call (402) 592-3800 or go online to www.ofwfcpa.com.

Strictly Business Welcomes Annie Carbutt as Co-Editor and Writer Strictly Business is thrilled to welcome the newest member to its small-but-mighty team, Annie Carbutt! Annie came to Strictly Business in October, and her experience in English and writing made her the ideal candidate.

Annie will work closely with the current editor, Hannah Hundley, to write press releases and feature stories. This will allow Hannah to take over more of a director of operations role while still overseeing major editorial pieces such as Star/River City Sixes, Client Spotlights, Restaurant Exposés, etc. Annie looks forward to building relationships with clients of the magazine in Lincoln and Omaha as she corresponds with them month to month to share their announcements and present them as the experts in their fields.

Prior to joining Strictly Business, Annie worked as a visiting instructor of English at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, one of China’s top-five universities, where she taught classic English literature and writing composition classes. Prior to moving to China, she worked as an English teacher’s assistant at Brigham Young University-Idaho and enjoyed conferencing one-on-one with college students and helping them perfect their essays and other writing. Annie loves the universal human story and finding ways to shape and share this story through the written word. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Brigham Young University-Idaho (Rexburg, ID), and an Associate of Science degree from Adams State College (Alamosa, CO).

Strictly Business is an established and trusted local news source and advertising tool in Lincoln and Omaha. To learn more, visit strictlybusiness.com / strictlybusinessomaha.com. To welcome Annie to Lincoln and the Strictly Business team, call (402) 466-3330 or email her at Office@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS CEDARS Earns Charity Navigator’s Highest Rating CEDARS was recently honored with a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest independent charity evaluator.

This is the third consecutive time that CEDARS has earned this top distinction. Charity Navigator has stated that CEDARS’ exceptional 4-star rating sets it apart from other nonprofits and demonstrates its trustworthiness to the public. Only a quarter of charities rated by Charity Navigator receive the distinction of a 4-star rating. This adds CEDARS to a preeminent group of charities working to overcome the world’s most pressing challenges. Based on its 4-star rating, people can trust that their donations are going to a financially responsible and ethical charity when they decide to support CEDARS. CEDARS has been a vital part of the community for over 70 years.

What started as a grassroots effort to provide safe refuge to children and youth who had no other safe place to spend the night has grown into a dynamic and dedicated team of over 150 professionals serving 2,000 kids and families each year.

Anyone interested in helping the children and youth in CEDARS’ care is encouraged to contact Tina Reeves at (402) 904-3261 or treeves@cedarskids.org. For more information about how CEDARS cares for children and their families, call (402) 434-KIDS (5437) or visit cedarskids.org.

Assistance League Holds Operation School Bell, Celebrates 70,000th Child Served

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The Assistance League ® of Omaha recently provided new school clothes to 3,700 children in the greater Omaha area through the Operation School Bell® program. From October 1–13 at the Westroads JC Penney store, children were able to pick out winter coats and clothing, shoes, and even a book! This year, a celebration was held to honor the 70,000th child who has been served since the operation began in 1976.

Operation School Bell has been praised by teachers and counselors alike who say that the children are excited and proud of their new clothes, which makes them eager to come to school.

Assistance League of Omaha’s mission is to transform the lives of children and adults through community programs like Operation School Bell. It is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) volunteer service organization transforming lives and strengthening communities.

They have been awarded the designation of 2019 Top-Rated Nonprofit

by GreatNonprofits and have achieved the highest-level designation of Platinum by GuideStar, the world’s largest source of information on nonprofits for three consecutive years.

Assistance League® of Omaha receives no federal, state, or city funding.

Programs are funded by grants and donations, the annual Christmas Caravan Tour of Homes, and the Thrift Shop located at 36th and Leavenworth. Learn more about the organization online www.alomaha. org or contact Nancy Glasser at (402) 496-1846 with any questions. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS Kids’ Chance of Nebraska Given $40K from Workers’ Compensation Association Kids’ Chance of Nebraska was recently presented with a ge n e ro u s d o n a t i o n o f $40,000 from the Workers’ Compensation Association of Nebraska. The Association presented the check to Kids’ Chance of Nebraska at their annual Nebraska Symposium, a two-day event that was held October 24–25 and featured multiple courses and panels by experts from across Nebraska and the Midwest. The evening before the symposium, Kids’ Chance of Nebraska held their Wine & Indian Food Fundraiser, which turned out to be a very successful event.

In 2019, Kids’ Chance of Nebraska has given out 15 scholarships totaling $63,750. None of this could be done without the ongoing support of the Workers’ Compensation Association of Nebraska and other sponsors who aid in their fundraising efforts.

Kids’ Chance of Nebraska is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and their mission is to provide financial support to further the education of the children of Nebraska workers who have been severely injured, totally disabled, or killed as a result of employment-related injuries or occupational diseases. It is the goal of Kids’ Chance of Nebraska to make a difference in the lives of these children by providing scholarships to help eligible students achieve both their educational goals and their families’ dreams. Email kidschanceofnebraska@ gmail.com with any questions or go online to www.kidschanceofne. org for more information.

Angels Among Us to Host Birds & Beer Bash for Pediatric Cancer Angels Among Us will host Birds & Beer Bash, an all-you-can-eat-and-drink event, on Thursday, January 9, from 5:308:30 p.m. at Buildertrend. The event is intended as a fun way to both raise money for pediatric cancer and also to invite young professionals into an easy-going atmosphere where they can learn about all the great things Angels Among Us is doing!

Attendees will have the chance to taste craft beers from brewers all across the state in partnership with the Nebraska Brewers Guild. Also present will be local restaurants such as Skyybox Grill & Bar and Hilton downtown who are preparing unique and tasty chicken dishes to try. Come for a fun night out with your peers and coworkers. You don’t want to miss this!

A $35 ticket includes all you can eat and drink, an event t-shirt and pint glass designed by Soul & Swag, and the knowledge that you are doing good for Nebraska families battling pediatric cancer!

Angels Among Us is a Nebraska nonprofit that provides financial and emotional support to families whose children are battling pediatric cancer. Any family living in or being treated in Nebraska is eligible to apply for financial support. In 2018, Angels Among Us provided financial support to 99 families, giving over $355,000.

Register now to “wing” in the new year with Birds & Beers at www. myangelsamongus.org. Only 250 tickets available. While you’re online, check out the various sponsorship levels and opportunities available with Angels Among Us. Contact Alyssa Theilen, director of community relations and development, at (402) 934-0999 / alyssa@myangelsamongus. org with any questions. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

MICAH House to Stock Bare Pantry Shelves Each day, MICAH House provides warm meals to dozens of individuals experiencing homelessness. Over the winter, their pantry shelves become bare and the current supply of canned fruit and vegetables is very low. This is why they are asking for the community’s help to stock their pantry!

In total, MICAH House served more than 26,000 meals to families and women in need last year. With each of these meals, MICAH House provides a fruit and vegetable option—an important part of a nutritious and well-balanced meal. On average, it takes 25 cans of fruit and vegetables to provide one meal at MICAH House.

MICAH House encourages you to organize a personal or companywide donation drive and collect canned fruit, vegetables, and other goods to provide healthy options for homeless children, families, and women. You can also make a monetary donation on MICAH House’s website at themicahhouse.org/donate or shop the wish list on Amazon. Questions about donating or supporting MICAH House can be directed to Daylee Olson at dolson@ themicahhouse.org.

CHAD Nebraska Recognizes Charity Campaign Partners CHAD (Combined Health Agencies Drive) recently recognized 14 of its 21 member charities for not only contributing to the CHAD workplace campaign in their areas but also achieving 100% participation. These charities include: Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter; Arthritis Foundation Nebraska; Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska; Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, Nebraska/Iowa Chapter; Cystic Fibrosis Foundation – Nebraska Chapter; JDRF Nebraska- Southwest Iowa Chapter; Leukemia & Lymphoma Society – Nebraska Chapter; Muscular Dystrophy Association of Nebraska; Nebraska AIDS Project; Nebraska Chapter of the National Hemophilia Foundation; Nebraska Hospice and Palliative Care Association in partnership with Nebraska Health Care Association; Nebraska Kidney Association; Team Jack Foundation; and United Cerebral Palsy of Nebraska.

“By participating in the campaign, the staff at each of these organizations are showing the community that our member charities recognize the importance of community involvement and giving back,” said Michelle Grossman, President and CEO. “They are mirroring what we are asking others in the community to do, which makes our mission stronger.”

Not only did CHAD’s partners participate, CHAD also had 100% participation—all staff participated in the United Way of the Midlands campaign in Omaha, United Way/CHAD partnership campaign in Lincoln, and the statewide CHAD campaign in Greater Nebraska.

Since its inception, CHAD of Nebraska has raised $58,159,054 for charities who are supporting those in need in the community.

To learn more, call (402) 614-8500 or visit www.chadnebraska. org. You can also connect with the organization on social media (@ CHADNebraska).

DECEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 29

NONPROFIT NEWS Wear Yellow Nebraska Announces New Year Kick-Off Event Join Wear Yellow Nebraska on Thursday, January 23, 6–8 p.m., at Gorat’s Steak House, 4917 Center St., for their 2020 Wear Yellow Nebraska Kick-Off to celebrate the successes of 2019 and jump into planning for an outstanding 2020! Included in the evening’s festivities will be tasty hors d’oeuvres and drinks, registration information for the 17th Annual Wear Yellow Ride, Run & Walk, new routes, and of course, that stylish Wear Yellow Nebraska gear everyone loves.

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Inclusive Communities to Host Humanitarian Brunch Featuring Precious Brady-Davis Save the date for Inclusive Communities’ 2020 Humanitarian Brunch, which will be held on April 19 at the Scott Conference Center. This is the 82nd year Inclusive Comm unities has hosted an event to honor those dedicated to creating more inclusive communities, and they are continuing forward in their commitment to make the Omaha community a better place for everyone. They understand that now more than ever, we need to recognize those who are dedicated to creating more inclusive communities.

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The Humanitarian Brunch will start at noon with a happy hour, featuring a Bloody Mary and mimosa bar until 1 p.m. A hosted brunch and program will follow immediately afterward. This year’s honored guest will be Precious Brady-Davis. Lauded internationally as an award-winning diversity advocate, communications professional, and public speaker, Davis currently serves as the Central Region Communications Manager for Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal Campaign. She finds deep meaning in examining the roots of what proliferates bias, bigotry, and prejudice in the world.

Through celebrating the beauty of coexistence, uplifting/centering the stories of those who are most marginalized, and seeing that all issues that affect the human condition are interconnected, she invites all who come in contact with her to see the resilience that lives within us all.

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Wear Yellow Nebraska is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a clear focus on niche initiatives that offered cancer survivors support in ways that weren’t being addressed and for people who would otherwise fall through the cracks, truly caring for an individual’s special circumstances. To learn more or register for the event, go to www.wearyellownebraska.org or contact (402) 965-1699 / wearyellownebraska@gmail.com.

Inclusive Communities envisions a society that is strengthened by diversity, inclusion, respect, and justice for all people. For more information and to have your name added to the invite list, please contact Maggie Wood at (402) 391-4460 / Maggie@InclusiveCommunities.org. Learn more about the organization by going online to www.inclusive-communities.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS Heartland Family Service Presents “Carnival of Love” Gala Heartland Family Service will host their prized annual “Carnival of Love” Gala on Saturday, February 29, at 6 p.m. at Embassy Suites La Vista. Come rock your jeans and bling and enjoy appetizers, cocktails, games, a raffle, dinner, and silent and live auctions. Join Heartland Family Service on a first-class adventure to Destination: Love!

Heartland Family Service is still in need of sponsors for the “Carnival of Love” Gala, which is the agency’s largest fundraiser each year. In 2013 and 2014, the “Carnival of Love” was voted Best Event Over 500 by readers of metroMAGAZINE, and it won Best Theme in 2015.

The mission of Heartland Family Service is to strengthen individuals and families in the community through education, counseling, and support services. Founded in 1875, Heartland Family Service connects with over 54,000 individuals and families through direct services, education, and outreach each year from over 15 locations in east central Nebraska and southwest Iowa. Their 50 programs provide critical human services to the individuals and families who ultimately shape the future of the community in the following focus areas: child and family well-being, counseling and prevention, and housing, safety, and financial stability. To learn more, visit HeartlandFamilyService.org.

Domesti-PUPS Celebrates Service and Therapy Dog Graduations Domesti-PUPS held a graduation ceremony for three service dog teams and one Edu-PUP (classroom therapy dog) on October 15. The ceremony was held at both places where the dogs were trained—in the morning at the Nebraska State Penitentiary and again in the afternoon at the Lincoln Correctional Center. Each dog was individually trained with an inmate to meet their needs and help them lead a more independent life.

The service dog teams that were placed include two wheelchair/ mobility support dogs, a combination mobility/diabetic, and alert/seizure response dog. Recipients of the dogs are from Lincoln, Firth, and Orleans, NE. The Edu-PUPS (classroom therapy dog) is being placed in a school in Lincoln. Classroom dogs are innovative teaching tools as the dogs are non-judgmental and unconditionally loving. They bring a renewed inspiration and excitement to the learning process and motivate students. They also help develop self-esteem, responsibility, motivation, selfdiscipline, and communication skills.

Domesti-PUPS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Lincoln. Their mission is to improve the quality of life for persons with special needs through the assistance of animals, and to promote awareness through education. For more information on service, therapy, or companion dogs, email info@domesti-pups. org or visit www.domesti-pups.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Endless Journey Hospice Presents Night of Endless Stars Gala Endless Jour ney Hospice is excited to host their inaugural Night of Endless Stars Gala on December 6 at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Conference Center in La Vista. The evening will begin at 5:30 p.m. and the program will run until 11:30 p.m. The emcee of the event will be John Oakey, news anchor at KETV. He will take guests through the night’s agenda, which includes dinner, a keynote speaker, and a live auction conducted

by Auctioneer Mike Bunach with Good Bid-Ness Company and Cross Electronic Recycling.

During the banquet, attendees will hear from Kimberly Paul. For the past 17 years, Kimberly has been radically changing the way people face end of life. After graduating from Meredith College in Raleigh, NC she began working on the set of Saturday Night Live, casting for CBS daytime programming, and freelancing for several production companies in New York City. While working in the entertainment industry, Kimberly was captivated by the creative process of developing the arc of the story. She went on to become vice president of outreach and communications for Lower Cape Fear Hospice in Wilmington, NC, where she created a myriad of award-winning marketing strategies to share real stories of how hospice patients and their loved ones face the end of life journey. Kimberly’s enthusiasm and passion to positively educate those on how to plan for end of life are evident as she shares her stories through speaking engagements, her writings, videos and film. As of 2017, Kimberly is now investing 100% of her time to bring innovation to the death and dying industry by applying the concept of design thinking.

The goal of the Night of Endless Stars Gala is to raise enough funds to start the construction of the Endless Journey Hospice House and to continue their nonprofit initiative, which includes holistic services such as massage therapy, healing touch, music therapy, reiki, art therapy, aromatherapy, and much more. In addition to the holistic choices, Endless Journey Hospice provides meal services for their clients and a special bereavement meal to each of their families following the death of a loved one. All of this is provided at no cost to patients and families.

Tickets to Endless Journey Hospice’s Night of Endless Stars Gala can be found online at www.2019endlessstar.givesmart.com.

A list of auction items and information about donating can also be found on the website. Questions can be directed to Maegan Drummond, executive director of Endless Journey Hospice, at (402) 890-3623 / Maegan@endlessjourneyhospice.com.

DECEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 31

NONPROFIT NEWS Nonprofit Association of the Midlands to Host Annual Holiday Party

Open Door Mission Presents Adopt a Guest Program to Provide Gifts for Homeless

Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) will host their annual holiday party, sponsored

by The Harry A. Koch Company, on December 5 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Hot Shops Art Center, 1301 Nicholas St. As a thank you to their community of nonprofits for all their hard work this year, NAM is giving the gift of celebration and connection through their annual holiday party. Guests will enjoy drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and a chance to greet old friends and make new ones! The party is free to attend, though registration is required.

Through Open Door Mission’s Adopt a Guest program, you can be matched up with men, women, and children who are experiencing homelessness and currently staying at the mission through December 18. The idea is to purchase Christmas gifts for them to make them feel loved this holiday season!

Nonprofit Association of the Midlands strengthens the collective voice, leadership, and capacity of nonprofits to enrich the quality of community life throughout Nebraska and Western Iowa. With NAM’s growing base of nonprofits, the organization is committed to: enhancing public recognition of the importance and role of the nonprofit sector; providing access to high-quality assistance and information on effective nonprofit management and practices; advocating on issues that affect the capacity of all nonprofits to address their communities’ needs; and fostering communication and cooperation among nonprofits.

The Nonprofit Association of the Midlands is a state association that currently represents more than 650 nonprofit organizations. To learn more about NAM or register for the holiday party, visit www. nonprofitam.org/events or email abby@nonprofitam.org.

You can make Christmas brighter for your neediest neighbor by participating in Adopt a Guest. When you sign up, you will be paired with an Open Door Mission guest. You can choose to be paired with a single man, single woman, or a family experiencing homelessness.

You will receive their Christmas wish list and you can purchase new gifts for them. Open Door Mission asks that you spend a minimum of $75–$100. After wrapping the gifts, you will deliver them during special drop off times just before Christmas. Make the Adopt a Guest program a new tradition for your family!

Open Door Mission is a Gospel Rescue Mission that meets the needs of individuals and families while inspiring HOPE for lasting change.

Each day, Open Door Mission’s campus offers 917 safe shelter beds to homeless men, women, and children; serves over 3,500 nutritious meals; and provides preventative measures to more than 1,000 people living in poverty. To learn more, visit www.opendoormission. org or contact Leanne Canady at (402) 829-1519 / lcanady@ opendoormission.org with any questions.

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Out Beside You is excited to announce that their second annual Flat Water Ice Bowl fundraising event will be held February 21–22 at Pheasant Bonanza. This c harity ice fishing event is open to the first 20 teams to sign up (entry deadline is February 15). The bar at Pheasant Bonanza Hunt Club & Kennel’s lodge (3097 Co Road O, Tekamah, NE 68061) will open at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, February 21, with dinner, the pond draw, and a Calcutta to follow. Saturday’s activities will begin with lines in at 8:30 a.m. and lines out at 4 p.m., but weigh-in will be available from 2 to 5:30 p.m. Dinner and awards at the lodge will follow.

The cost for a two-person team is $299, which includes entry, two dinners per person, fishing at a private pond, and waxed worms and frozen minnows. Call for a la carte options (only $175 for a guide + all ice fishing gear). Sponsorship opportunities are also available for this event, with 50% of the proceeds benefiting Out Beside You. Awards will be given to the following categories: Biggest fish, heaviest stringer, and smallest fish (photo only). There will also be door prizes and a guaranteed first, second, and third place team payout.

Out Beside You serves active and transitioning military members, their families, and former and retired veterans of all generations through guided outdoor events in order to connect them with each other and nature through fishing, hunting, and agriculture. To sign up a team for the Flat Water Ice Bowl, call (402) 374-1765 or email office@ pheasantbonanza.com. To view the official event flyer or download the team application, go to www.pheasantbonanza.com/ice-bowl. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS NAMI Omaha Announces No January Meeting Due to Holidays, Resumes in February

Omaha Home for Boys Calls for Donations to Project Christmas Joy

NAMI Omaha has announced that, due to the New Year’s holiday, there will be no meeting in January. The next Mental Health NAMI Affiliate meeting will be held on Thursday, February 6, from 6 to 8 p.m. This meeting is free and open to the public. Stay tuned for information about the February speaker and topic.

These meetings take place the first Thursday of each month at First United Methodist Church, located at 7020 Cass St. in Omaha. Parking is available on the east and north side of the church. Enter through doors #4 or #6 and proceed to room 112.

NAMI Omaha is a nonprofit organization composed of consumers, family members, professionals, and friends who have come together to share and take comfort in the commonality of their experiences and to educate members of their communities about serious brain disorders.

Along with education/literature, support, workshops, conferences, and more. NAMI Omaha actively advocates at the local, state, and national levels to improve the services and the lives of those affected by mental illness and their families.

For information on NAMI Omaha, go to namiomaha.org or call (402) 345-8101 or (877) 463-6264. For helpful articles on mental illness, follow NAMI on Facebook (@NAMIOmaha).

The Omaha Home for Boys (OHB) is holding its holiday gift and essentials drive, Project Christmas Joy, now through December 17. The drive is aimed at providing youth, young adults, and families in OHB’s programs with presents and necessities for the holidays.

Some of the most critically-needed items include hygiene items, cleaning products, laundry supplies, kitchen essentials, diapers, and wipes. Some of the “wants” of OHB’s youth include gift cards (Walmart, TJ MAXX, Kohls, McDonald’s, Quik Trip, Burger King, Uber, Auto Zone), body spray, lotion, nail polish, backpacks, wallets, purses, socks, and blankets.

Bailey Perry, OHB Transitional Living Manager, noted just how impactful the public’s support of Project Christmas Joy is: “We try to give every youth in our program a few gifts at Christmas, and the reality is that for some, it’s the first time they’ve had the opportunity to experience this aspect of the holidays. They are grateful for everything they receive.”

Support of Project Christmas Joy can be offered in a number of ways.

Donated items can be dropped off at Omaha Home for Boys, Smith Administration Building, 4343 N 52nd St. Monetary gifts can be given online at OmahaHomeForBoys.org/joy, or items can even be purchased via the “Project Christmas Joy” Amazon Wish List and shipped directly to OHB.

Do Space Recognized for National Innovation Award Do Space was recognized by the Urban Libraries Council (ULC) as one of 10 recipients of the Top Innovator Award during the 2019 Innovations Celebration held on October 17 in Salt Lake City. The annual innovations award program recognizes leading practices from ULC’s member library systems across the U.S. and Canada.

A panel of expert judges selected Do Space and its Women Innovators Fellowship program from 260 submissions in 10 categories that showcase out-of-the-box thinking and creative applications of library resources. Do Space won in the category of Race and Social Equity.

Award winners were recognized for their level of creativity, the ability for other libraries to adapt their work, and the outcomes achieved.

At the beginning of the year, Do Space selected three Women Innovators Fellows to develop projects that address local challenges facing women in technology and tech entrepreneurship. The competitive, six-month experience challenged the Fellows to develop new resources and tools to promote the advancement of women in technology in Omaha. Each Fellow received expert mentorship, a $10,000 stipend, and additional resources to bring her big idea to life.

“Omaha women are underrepresented in technical roles, as well as underrepresented in business,” said Rebecca Stavick, Do Space Executive Director. “The Women Innovators Fellowship helped move the needle for women in tech and business by empowering three women to take their leadership skills to the next level. It also added three new digital tools that will benefit Omaha’s tech community, so that is a win-win for everyone.”

Do Space, which just celebrated its fourth anniversary, takes a whole new approach to providing technology access and education in Omaha. They believe in empowering the community through access to technology and innovative learning experiences. Free and open to all, Do Space is a community technology library, a digital workshop, and an innovation playground filled with opportunities to learn, grow, explore and create. To learn more, visit www.dospace.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Corn Belt Collegiate Baseball League Seeks Community Support for Golf Fundraiser The Corn Belt Summer Collegiate Baseball League and MVP4Life will host their annual golf fundraiser on May 30 with a 2 p.m. shotgun start at Dodge Riverside Golf Club in Council Bluffs, IA. “If you have ever played ball or have a son or daughter playing, we hope your love of the game gets you involved in our golf fundraiser,” said Teri Cissell, and Director for MVP4Life, the league’s nonprofit program that facilitates mentorships between players and youth. “This charity event will give you the chance to play alongside others who have a great love of the game while helping a college player play ball in Omaha this summer.”

Another way to support the Corn Belt Summer Collegiate Baseball League is by becoming a host family. Hosting a player is such a rewarding experience for you and your family. Just think—you could be hosting a future MLB player!

College players from all over the country come to develop their game here in Omaha through the CBL. The talent level of these players bring so much excitement to the community. With the league’s expansion plans for the 2020 season and beyond, fundraising efforts are more important than ever.

The Corn Belt Summer Collegiate Baseball League is asking businesses and community leaders to share in their vision of becoming the top developmental baseball summer league, furthering the positive impact it has on the Omaha community. The organization is currently looking for golfers, hole sponsors, along with silent auction items to help with this event. Learn more about the Corn Belt League’s vision by going to www.CornBeltLeague.com or by contacting Teri at (402) 598-4998 / Joe Siwa at (402) 669-2892.

DECEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 33

NONPROFIT NEWS Youth Emergency Services Releases 2019 Holiday Wish List for Youth Gift Drive

ThriVinci Volunteers Donate Over 300 Hours, $33.5K Worth of Professional Services

Youth Emergency Services (YES) recently released its 2019 Holiday Wish List of gifts and items needed for youth who are experiencing homelessness or near-homelessness.

The list has become an annual tradition, giving kids enrolled with YES the chance to describe their wishes for the holiday season. Members of the community are encouraged to purchase and drop off items at the YES Administrative Office, 2679 Farnam St., STE 205., by December 13 as a gesture of goodwill and holiday spirit. Many of the items donated will be made available to youth and their families during YES’ annual Santa’s Workshop on December 19 at the Street Outreach Center.

This year’s needed items include gas and bus passes, gift cards to stores in the area, towels and washcloths, shower curtains/liners/hooks, vacuums, pots and pans, baking dishes, cleaning supplies, twin sheets, headphones, footballs and basketballs, fleece blankets, gloves and winter gear, eye and lip makeup, electric razors and hair clippers, baby clothing, diapers and wipes, pack-n-plays, and more. They request that all items be new.

Because the majority of the youth that YES serves go without many things throughout the year, the holiday season is a great time to help them find stability, safety, and, above all else, spirit.

Youth Emergency Services is the only nonprofit in Omaha with the sole mission to help youth in the community who are experiencing homelessness and near-homelessness. To view a complete list of gifts on the YES Holiday Wish List, visit www.yesomaha.org or call (402) 345-5187 to talk to someone about volunteer opportunities.

ThriVinci recently reported their success in helping nonprofit organizations thrive through their skills-based volunteer efforts during 2019. In addition to partnering with ShareOmaha to host the Volunteer & Beer Fair on April 18, through which over 500 community members committed to volunteering, ThriVinci volunteers donated over 300 hours and $35,500 worth of professional services to nonprofits needing organizational development support in 2019. Among other things, ThriVinci successfully completed five volunteer projects with nonprofit clients needing strategic analysis and change management support while undergoing organizational transformation. ThriVinci has had a successful year of growth and service, and consequently have welcomed five new board members to their team in 2019 to help them in their efforts.

Learn more about ThriVinci online at www.ThriVinci.org. Questions can be directed to Victoria Graeve-Cunningham or Roxanne Dockter at (402) 281-3462 / info@thrivinci.org.

Amplify Arts and Millwork Commons Announce Completion of Community Mural Amplify Arts and Millwork Commons have announced the completion of a mural entitled “The Keeper of Stories” by artists Reggie LeFlore, Nicholas Miller, and norm4eva on three stacked shipping containers at 12th and Izard Streets. The organizations held an unveiling celebration in front of the mural on November 1.

Selected by a jury of local arts community members, the three artists were challenged to develop a concept using the three 500-squarefoot containers that, when stacked, would create one cohesive piece.

The artists have been working together since early September. Each received a $6,000 stipend.

A long-term vision for the Millwork Commons neighborhood, which will become home to tech company Flywheel next summer, is to strengthen Omaha’s urban core and help define the city as a culturally vibrant and inclusive place. The mural represents a collection of “legends, knowledge, and wisdom” spanning generations. It depicts a woman on one side and a lion on the other.

Millwork Commons is a collaborative community in Omaha designed to inspire and support the work of innovators and creators. Located on approximately 50 acres at 13th and Nicholas St., Millwork Commons is restoring 140-year-old buildings to meet the needs of today’s workers and residents and designing new buildings to complement the historic feel. The neighborhood will include a variety of housing options as well as distinctive businesses such as coffee shops, restaurants, and services.

Amplify Arts (formerly Omaha Creative Institute) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to promote unity, innovation, and progress in the arts to build strong and vibrant communities. To learn more about Amplify Arts please visit www.amplifyarts.org.

34 Strictly Business DECEMBER 2019

Midlands Community Foundation Awards Grants Totaling $97,301 Midlands Community Foundation (MCF) has awarded grants totaling $97,301 to 22 nonprofit organizations serving Sarpy and Cass counties including: • Assistance League of Omaha - $2,500 • Assure Women’s Center - $4,000 • Autism Action Partnership - $2,500 • Banister’s Leadership Academy - $7,500 • Bellevue Fire Department - $1,451 • Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands - $5,000 • College Possible - $2,000 • Common Fund of the Heartland - $3,000 • Happy Paws - $2,000 • Greater Omaha Attendance & Learning Services Center - $3,000 • Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy - $4,350 • Kids Can Community Center - $3,000 • Latino Center of the Midlands - $3,000 • Nebraska Children’s Home Society - $2,000 • Nebraska Mission of Mercy - $20,000 • Omaha Performing Arts - $5,000 • OneWorld Community Health Centers, Inc. - $5,000 • Papillion Area Historical Society - $4,000 • Radio Talking Book Service - $2,500 • Sarpy Community YMCA - $2,000 • Twin Ridge Elementary PTA - $5,000 • Village of Elmwood Nebraska - $6,000 This is the first of two grant distributions for Midlands Community Foundation’s fiscal year. The next grant deadline will be February 1, 2020, with funds distributed in April. Through its grants program, Midlands Community Foundation places an emphasis on prevention and education. The Foundation has a strong commitment toward programs benefiting health, art, culture, community, economic development, education, and human services.

The mission of the Midlands Community Foundation is to benefit the diverse needs of the Sarpy and Cass county communities by providing financial support, involvement, and service. Learn more online at www.

MidlandsCommunity.org or call (402) 991-8027. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

HEALTH NEWS American Lung Association Releases Second Annual “State of Lung Cancer” Report

Strada Healthcare Announces Launch of Direct Primary Care Pilot Program

The American Lung Association recently released their second annual “State of Lung Cancer” report, which examines the toll of lung cancer throughout the nation and outlines steps every state can take to better protect its residents from lung cancer. The American Lung Association seeks to continue the positive trend of increased lung cancer survival by educating the community with the reports’ findings. According to the report, the nationwide five-year lung cancer survival rate of 21.7% is up from 17.2% where it was a decade ago. This reflects a 26% improvement over the past 10 years. In Nebraska, the survival rate is 20.6%, which is below the national average.

On July 1, the first State of Nebraska employees who elected to enroll in a membership direct primary care (DPC) practice through Strada Healthcare began using the services for their primary healthcare.

The state offered this new option for employees who live or work in or near communities with DPC providers, including the Omaha area.

DPC is a new and rapidly-growing model for delivering primary healthcare. Members pay a low monthly membership fee, which gives them access to their provider through traditional office visits plus phone calls, text messages, email, and virtual visits. DPC providers have fewer patients, which means better availability, more in-depth visits, and a focus on preventive care. Among the covered services for Strada members are an annual physical, follow-up appointments, annual lab work, acute visits, chronic disease management, treatment of sprains, simple laceration repair, women’s health, and basic mental health, and more. No co-pays are assessed, and members can avoid many of the high out-of-pocket costs that would otherwise be billed through insurance companies.

Strada Healthcare is pioneering an innovative approach to healthcare that removes insurance from the primary care setting.

Instead of hassling with insurance, Strada patients receive unlimited access to their primary care provider for a flat monthly fee and are able to visit the clinic as often as needed. For more information, visit StradaHealthcare.com.

Part of the reason lung cancer is so deadly is because most lung cancer cases are diagnosed at a later stage after the disease has spread. Lung cancer screening is the key to early detection when the disease is most curable, but only 21.5% of lung cancer cases nationally are diagnosed at an early stage. Low-dose CT screening tests have been available since 2015, yet only 3.2% of those eligible in Nebraska have been screened.

Taking advantage of this simple lung cancer screening test can save lives.

For more information about the American Lung Association or to learn more about the “State of Lung Cancer” report, visit Lung.org/solc.

Autism Action Partnership Earns Certified Autism Center™ Designation Autism Action Partnership (AAP) has become a Certified Autism Center™, making it one of only two organizations in the state of Nebraska to attain that designation. The CAC designation is granted by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).

AAP is a public, not-for-profit foundation founded by Gail WernerRobertson and Scott Robertson. The foundation has been working to create and fund programs that fill critical gaps in Nebraska autism services since 2008. Pursuing this level of professional training and certification aligns with the Mission Statement of AAP, “To improve the quality of life of persons on the autism spectrum and their families through education, advocacy and support, thereby enabling them to be an integral part of the community.”

AAP’s diverse programming provides critical services to: students needing to improve their social skills (Circle of Friends), adults securing permanent employment (PACE), families seeking enrichment opportunities (Making Memories), professionals wanting to promote the safety of those with autism (BE SAFE, Project Lifesaver), and businesses and community venues looking to be more inclusive. The certification process involved concerted professional development to ensure a level of expertise for all staff, in providing the above services. Four AAP employees now carry credentials as Certified Autism Specialists, and one holds an Autism Certificate.

For almost 20 years IBCCESS (ibcces.org) has provided training and certification for education, healthcare, travel, law enforcement, and corporate professionals worldwide who aim to provide quality care to those with special needs. IBCCES is the only training and certification program endorsed by Autism Society and focuses on working with industry leaders to ensure professionals who work with individuals on the spectrum are trained and certified in autism and other cognitive disorders.

Autism Action Partnership has served the needs of the Nebraska autism community for over a decade. Over that time, the diagnosis and prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder has grown significantly, worldwide and locally. Learn more at autismaction.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Project Harmony Point Mental Health Providers Towards Online Resource Project Harmony, along with The Kim Foundation, Project Everlast, Region 6, and Nebraska Families Collaborative, have come together to improve access to mental health resources and treatment for children and families in the community through one dedicated website: NebraskaMentalHealth.com.

NebraskaMentalHealth.com provides centralized access to local and regional mental health information in a single location. The goal of NebraskaMentalHealth.com is to expand knowledge about mental health terminology and to help connect those in need with mental health information, treatment, and services. The website includes: • Basic mental health information; • Common mental health terminology; • Information about evidence based therapy practices (EBPs); and, • Local therapist profiles and credentials.

This website is a one-stop shop. There are numerous providers available to help. Project Harmony encourages all mental health providers within the state of Nebraska to create a profile on NebraskaMentalHealth.com if they have not done so already.

As the days get shorter, the weather gets colder, and the holidays approach, both adults and children may find they need some mental health support. One in four adults (approximately 61.5 million Americans) experience mental illness in a given year. Approximately 20% of youth, ages 13 to 18, live with a mental health condition.

Project Harmony wants to bridge the gap of those in need with those who are here to help! If you or a child in your care needs mental health care, visit www.nebraskamentalhealth.com to find resources, treatment options, and more. To learn more about Project Harmony’s work to end the cycle of abuse and neglect in the local community and beyond, go to projectharmony.com or call (402) 595-1326.

DECEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 35

Senior Care During the Holidays and Winter Months When we think of the holidays, our thoughts often turn to the twinkle of Christmas lights and the warmth of a cozy fire. We remember pleasant times with family and friends, kitchens packed with good food, cheerful and festive music—all the things the holidays should be filled with. What we may not think of are the people in our midst who feel disconnected from the cheer and the warmth.

For the seniors in our community, the holidays can be difficult and lonely, especially when they’ve lost a spouse or family member who they’re missing a little extra this time of year. Growing health concerns can also cause seniors additional strife during the holidays as they may be unable to attend their usual gatherings due to mobility issues, chronic pain, or memory loss.

The daily challenges and limitations that many seniors struggle with are amplified when it seems like everyone else is gathering together during the holiday season to enjoy themselves. At Strictly Business, we believe the holidays should be just as warm and welcoming for seniors today as they were for them 30 years ago. We encourage readers to reach out

Our family can help your family.

Our family of services can support your loved one with our wide array of care services, including: • Adult day services • Independent living • Assisted living and memory support • Long-term care • Short-term rehab • In-home companion services • Home health and hospice

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Strictly Business DECEMBER 2019

and give special attention to your elderly family members, neighbors, and even strangers who are living in an assisted living community. Find small ways to include them and make them feel special—give them a Christmas card or a plate of cookies, sing them some carols, or take them on a drive to see Christmas lights.

When you are spending time with your elderly loved ones, make sure to watch for any signs of them requiring additional care or assistance that they may not already be receiving. Some seniors may wish to avoid putting a damper on the holiday spirit by alerting their family of growing health concerns. Other seniors may not even be aware of their own needs. With all this in mind, we decided to talk to some local experts in the senior care industry for more advice.

Kyle Johnson with Care Consultants for the Aging had much to say on the importance of addressing all aspects of physical health for seniors as early as possible, especially leading into the winter months.

“Declining eyesight or hearing, mobility problems, and memory issues can lead to losing the ability to drive, increase risk of falling, and everyday tasks becoming more difficult to perform,” Kyle said. “These health concerns are even more important to take into consideration during the winter. It is important Kyle Johnson for seniors to address these issues early on and Care Consultants for families to keep aware of how they are for the Aging affecting their loved ones. Making sure seniors have mental stimulation, companionship, transportation for outings, and assistance with personal care or household chores can help keep these issues under control. This can come from family members or loved ones, outside caregivers, senior centers, adult day centers, or in a facility.”

“Staying active, both physically and mentally, can make a lasting impact on a senior’s health and wellness,” Kyle added. “Many seniors find it helpful to have a caregiver assist them in their home with tasks such as bathing, dressing, and laundry to keep them safe and healthy without taking away their independence. Having a caregiver they know in the home can make life changes less stressful.”

Care Consultants refers caregivers who are CNAs and can assist seniors with companionship, personal care, light housekeeping, and much more. They have caregivers available from one up to 24 hours a day, along with access to short-term assistance in the case of an emergency. This flexibility gives families the peace of mind knowing their loved one is being cared for by a qualified and caring individual.

We also asked Mary Ann Stallings with Bridge to Better Living about her thoughts on tuning in to the condition of seniors during the holidays and winter months: “When visiting Mary Ann Stallings over the holidays, take time to listen to your Bridge to Better Living loved one,” Mary Ann offered. “Understand #PrintProudDigitalSmart

their situation but also take notice of slight changes. Ask yourself questions such as: Are they clean? Do they have difficulty conversing, forget words, ramble, or repeat themselves? Is the home safe, cluttered, poorly lit, or is outdated food in the refrigerator? Is medication being taken properly?”

If you notice any signs of decline in your senior loved one, it may be time to find them additional care options. If you are new to being a caregiver, you may not know where to turn or how to find the best option for assisted living arrangements. This is why so many people turn to Bridge to Better Living. Their transition consultants discuss communities that fit your loved one’s unique needs and wants, arrange tours with the communities when it works best for your availability, and act as personal guides throughout the process. Focus is placed on the client; there is no bias, no wrong directions, and the service Bridge to Better Living offers is always no-cost to the client.

If your senior loved one is complaining of being lonely, note whether there is transportation to activities or if they have no way of knowing what activities are being offered around them. Mary Ann shared with us some of the ways senior living communities ensure their senior residents are not alone during the holidays: “Assisted living communities do a good job of engaging their residents in the holiday spirit. Residents are offered choices in music presentations, volunteering for community projects, crafts, and even caroling. Some communities have rooms the residents may reserve for their own family celebration and will even cater the food. There may be a guest room at the community for out of town visitors or the resident may be welcome to invite company to spend a night with them. There is never a reason for an absent family member to worry their loved one is alone. An activity calendar from the community is usually available online or by mail.”

The entire staff of Bridge to Better Living stays engaged with their clients during the holidays. They enjoy visiting their clients and pay particular attention to those who have no family or local support. They take the extra steps needed so families and seniors are able to enjoy their holidays rather than worry about the “what ifs” of life. Quality of life is important every day.

Mary Ann understands all acts of love and service, even the small things, are essential for our seniors. “There is power in a hug or a simple touch of the hand. Let your loved one know you care and give them the best present of all—your time,” she said.

Bridge to Better Living has always recognized the value of volunteers. As Mary Ann informed us, volunteers save billions of dollars in our country’s economy every year, but more importantly, they enrich the lives of others simply by bringing joy to so many people.

“There are times when a volunteer is the only contact a senior has with the outside world for long periods of time,” said Mary Ann. “During the holidays, there is no better gift than the voice or smile of another person.”

Isolation is one of the biggest health concerns among America’s seniors, and the devastating effects can be felt physically, mentally, and emotionally. According to MedicareAdvantage. com, about 18% of adults age 65 and older in the U.S. live alone, and 43% report feeling lonely on a regular basis. Studies have shown that isolated seniors have an increased risk of high blood pressure, depression, dementia, malnutrition, etc. They are more likely to engage in risky behavior like tobacco use and are more vulnerable to elder abuse. Jennifer Jennifer Knecht Knecht with Immanuel Communities talked Immanuel Communities to us about ways to help seniors avoid isolation during the holidays.

“Combating senior loneliness is a driving vision of our life enrichment programs at every Immanuel community,” Jennifer said. “Be an active listener and observer with your senior loved ones. Ask them about their concerns during the holiday season and offer support, whether that’s extra help with transportation, shopping, or just a few extra phone calls to connect. Look for signs of loneliness like a change in routine or physical appearance. Loneliness can be just as devastating to senior health as chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. This is why, during #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Care that’s measured in outcomes. Not minutes.

Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitaion Therapy 402.614.4622 | HomeNursingWithHeart.com

From loneliness to

living large

Here for you. Not for profit.

Learn more at LonelinessAssessment.org DECEMBER 2019 Strictly Business

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happiness of all during a time that’s already packed full of things to do.

While you may just need help with non-medical services, it’s nice to have someone around who can provide medical care and support as well.”

Home Nursing with Heart provides professional staff who go into the homes of their patients to treat various ailments, post-surgical conditions, and provide physical and occupational therapy. Medicare generally covers the financial cost of these visits for the patient. The staff can also ElderCare Resource Handbook evaluate the home environment and make suggestions for modifications The Handbook is an all-inclusive so patients are able to continue staying in their homes as long as possible. listing of services, programs and other resources available for the aging.

For seniors who live at home but still want to be a part of a community, es for The book that car • Therapies • Home Health Care • Legal the people you love Hillcrest Health Services has a vibrant adult day center: The Club.

• Living Options • Transportation e Visit this book onlin om ok.c • Government • Financial • Resources dbo Han “The Club is designed for individuals who live Omaha • Medical Services • Food Programs at home but could benefit from social contact • Elder Moving • Funeral Arranging Purchase Your Copy Today! with new friends,” Jim Janicki from Hillcrest Health Services told us. “It is the ideal place for senior residents in the area and provides an array of supportive services from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Club offers the unique opportunity for members to enjoy day time socialization, outings, and events, as well as delicious meals and snacks.

Transportation is regularly provided to fun places like parks, museums, historic sites, Jim Janicki restaurants, and more. Some members are in Hillcrest Health Services the early stages of their dementia journey, so they benefit not only from these stimulating activities, but also from our team’s careful supervision and extensive training in dementia care.”

“The Club complements the services provided by family members at 402.669.9490 home during the evening and on weekends by providing supervision and Omaha@YourOasisAdvisor.com entertainment for their loved one during the workday,” Jim added. “Our AnswersForMom.com services can also provide a necessary respite for an exhausted spouse Kyle Johnson Jenny Trebold Senior Living Advisor Senior Living Advisor or caregiver who needs some personal time to re-energize.”

Whether it’s for their sake or yours, moving your loved one into an independent or assisted living community may become the only solution the holidays, we provide an abundance of events and activities for you are comfortable with as a caregiver. Oasis Senior Advisors in everyone to enjoy. Families are almost always welcome at these events, seniors whoPage.indd still want Oasis Senioroffering Advisors_KJohnson_Quarter 1 to host holiday events a great opportunity 1/11/2019 9:49:36 AMOmaha is an outlet for caregivers to find support. The professionals at Oasis offer free senior housing placement services so you can find the to invite family and friends. From special dinners and brunches to nonright community that meets the needs of your loved one. Oasis Senior denominational church services, concerts, crafts and more, our employees Advisors relies on their cutting-edge OasisIQ™ software, as well as work hard to make the holidays special for residents. The past few years, their extensive knowledge of the community, in order to reveal the best we’ve even hosted a descendant of Charles Dickens to bring his classic option available to each specific client. holiday novel to life.”

One new living option for seniors in Omaha is Ovation by Avamere, Beyond organized events, many of Immanuel’s communities offer private one of the first independent living, assisted living, and memory care gathering places and catering services so families can bring their own communities of its kind in the country. Set to open in west Omaha in the festive traditions to celebrate with senior loved ones. In addition, their Heartwood Preserve development next fall, two-building campus is wellness classes provide healthy socialization and an opportunity to burn being developed for mature adults and their desire to stay connected off those extra holiday indulgences. to the world around them. Ovation covers 325,000 square feet and will “The holidays are joyous times, but they also remind us of those holidays include a full continuum of care. Those interested in learning more about that have past and family members who are no longer here to celebrate,” this innovative concept can now see and experience Ovation at the new Jennifer said. “Discover ways you can involve your senior loved ones and Reservation Showroom in the Pepperwood Village shopping plaza. A honor those who have passed. This will help them connect with both the visit to the showroom includes a hands-on experience of the K4Connect past and the present and avoid isolation.” system that will be available to Ovation Heartwood Preserve residents.

This innovative solution uses smart devices to control room temperatures If you are a caretaker, you might feel overwhelmed by the responsibility and lights. It also allows residents to chat with friends down the hall, to keep your loved one engaged and connected so that they don’t schedule services, order a meal, and communicate instantly with family experience isolation. If you have a beloved who can also download the app. elder family member who needs more care than you’re able to provide but they insist on Many assume that older adults are all alike. However, this age group staying in their home, reach out for help. includes five decades of individuals, some of whom are very tech-savvy and expect certain amenities. A community that offers a variety of Jim Laughlin with Home Nursing with Heart different activities, levels of care, and utilizes current technology is what shared his thoughts on ensuring that both most families are looking for today. caregivers and seniors have the assistance they need so they don’t experience burnout over the Reach out to the seniors in your life to fill their holidays with a holidays: “So many times, we see patients who little extra joy. Volunteer, listen, engage. Consider their health and desperately want to stay in their homes they’ve well-being this time of year—whether that means helping them lived in for 50+ years,” Jim addressed. “To that get around in icy winter conditions or starting the conversation end, an often-overlooked service is in-home Jim Laughlin about transitioning into an assisted living community as a result care. Respite for family caregivers during the Home Nursing with Heart holidays is critical to ensuring the health and of growing health concerns. Let’s all age well together.

38 Strictly Business DECEMBER 2019 #PrintProudDigitalSmart Omaha Area

URCE ELDERCARE RESO OK HANDBO n | 2018-2020 Thirteenth Editio

OmahaHandbook.com

We make senior living simple.

Staying current with

Technology In today’s tech-driven landscape, choosing to put off technology updates like purchasing new computers and virus software can cost you big time in the long run, as can being out of the loop on the latest technology advancements in your field. In our research on this topic, we found key information and resources to help educate our readers on the importance of staying current with technology and how to do it with savvy and skill. Here are some tips that can ultimately save you money and resources and keep you current in the tech sphere, both at home and in the business world.

Educate Yourself on Emerging Technology Trends There are a surprising number of ways a layperson can stay informed on emerging technology trends, including reading the latest technology research reports, watching online tutorials, and subscribing to get alerts when new tech hits the market—but if you’re just looking to gain a better grasp on technology in general to apply to a field that isn’t inherently tech-related, one of the best ways is to take a class or even pursue a new degree. It doesn’t have to be a techrelated degree! You’ll find yourself among peers and teachers who can help bridge the gap in your tech knowledge.

With the availability of online education through programs such as those offered by the University of Nebraska, you can expand your expertise in your field without missing a beat. The University of Nebraska is committed to equipping Nebraskans with high-demand skills and offering accessibility to high-quality online programs that will enhance their careers and advance the state’s future in this modern, fast-paced, and tech-heavy world. Classes are specifically designed to accommodate people who already have an established career and are not able to put it on hold for more schooling.

Online options fit the lifestyles of many adult students who may be juggling multiple demands, including work, family, and other commitments. Business Administration, BA; Cybersecurity, BMS; and MBA are just a few of the 150+ online and blended degrees, certificates, and endorsement programs, from bachelor’s to doctoral, across 16 fields of study offered by the four campuses of the university. They truly have something for everyone, no matter how long it’s been since you’ve stepped foot in a classroom. You can easily take steps today toward a greater understanding of new technology in your field.

Create an IT Strategy With the rate of change in the technology world today, being aware that you need to keep up isn’t enough. You need a strategy if you want your business to function at optimum efficiency in order for you to stay on top in your field.

Many businesses choose to hire an IT expert for this very reason.

Technology may not be a strength for every business, and bringing in an expert to constantly monitor your system so it can continue running at top speeds and to also protect you from security threats can allow a business to focus on what they do best (which may not be IT!) and leave the tech stuff to technology experts. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Krista Wilson Business Administration, BS University of Nebraska at Kearney

DECEMBER 2019 Strictly Business

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For a business owner who does not have a large knowledge-base in the tech field, hiring the right IT person can be especially stressful.

There is pressure to find the right person who not only has the expertise to successfully complete the tasks at hand, but who also fits the culture of your company. Outsourcing your recruiting efforts can be a huge help if you are already spread thin handling various other responsibilities.

We talked to Andy Hawkins, founder of Concentric Corporation, to learn more about the role Concentric plays every day in helping companies build their teams and find their people—including technology experts.

“Concentric Corporation has been perfecting our approach of building quality relationships for over 15 years,” Andy said. “Our proven ability to listen to our audience, create relationships, and continue a reputation of trust has allowed us to grow in our community. We are the Andy Hawkins Concentric Corporation kind of company that brings businesses and professionals together when the time is right for everyone to create a perfect match.”

Whether your business is looking for a full-time or contracted employee in an account management, information technology, sales and marketing position, or anything else, Concentric’s team can help you make a hiring decision you feel good about. Today’s IT professionals have to be, among other things, highly intelligent, flexible in the face of change, and passionate about their field.

Concentric will help you find a candidate who’s ready to help your company grow—and grow within your company.

“Think two steps ahead of where you want your business to be, keeping in mind that plans change and evolve,” Andy said. “With a fast-paced industry, you need to be prepared for changes and welcome them with open arms. Technology evolves, grows, and

changes so quickly. We can help you find the people you need to navigate these changes and keep your company running smoothly and efficiently.”

Invest in Productivity A workplace survey conducted in 2016 revealed that, due to wasted productivity because of outdated technology, U.S. businesses lose up to $1.8 billion every year. Old devices run slowly, freeze often, require continual maintenance, and incur lots of downtime—all which cuts into time that could be spent reaching objectives and chipping away at a growing workload.

Old devices and software are also often incompatible with new programs that can increase business productivity. Outdated internet services with slow connections can also significantly affect business productivity. While updating devices, software, and services may seem like a significant investment, doing so can save you big time in the long run.

Cox Communications, a leading provider of high-speed broadband internet in Omaha, encourages businesses to keep up with technology trends—including high-speed internet services—to ensure that they can stay ahead of their competition and save money.

Cox offers powerful one gigabit broadband internet speeds, equal to 1,000 megabits per second (Mbps). Cox has also made significant upgrades to their infrastructure in Omaha as part of the company’s commitment to invest $10 billion in their network over the next five years. DOCSIS 3.1 technology builds on the strength of Cox’s fiberbased network and provides the ability to roll out gigabit internet speeds through more neighborhoods and areas in the city at a faster pace.

Cox Communications’ service and gigabit speeds are available to customers across Omaha, Papillion, Bellevue, Ralston, Gretna, and Valley in Nebraska; Council Bluffs, Crescent and Carter Lake in Iowa; and across Douglas, Sarpy, and Pottawatomie counties. Cox is truly committed to providing their customers with the fastest and most

Omaha’s IT partner for more than 35 years Delegate your day-to-day IT needs to an accountable partner. With affianceSUITE™, you don’t just get a consultant, you get unlimited access to a team of experts at a fixed fee. Visit or call to learn more.

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efficient internet services possible. They understand that productivity is key to success in this competitive world, and that high-speed internet makes this possible.

Stay Ahead of the Competition In a recent Microsoft survey, 90 percent of participants said that dealing with a company with outdated technology would raise a red flag and likely cause them to take their business elsewhere. Keeping up with technology allows businesses to stay ahead of competition and secure customer confidence.

ShineForth is all about helping customers get an edge and stay ahead in the game through building first-rate websites and modern web and mobile apps. Alvaro Oropesa, lead web developer at ShineForth, shared his insights on the positive effect technology has on businesses today and ways that ShineForth leverages this to set their customers apart from competition.

“Thanks to technology, businesses have experienced considerable increases in online commerce and productivity!” Alvaro Alvaro Oropesa exclaimed. “Technology can enable a ShineForth business to increase the quality of delivery, efficiency, and performance at any kind of work. Technology is in constant evolution and so are businesses. It is impossible to separate them from each other.

What we do at ShineForth is develop systems and solutions that help businesses scale and gain market traction by solving challenging business mission objectives. We are technologists at heart, and our passion is to work with purpose-based companies to identify opportunities to take their outcomes to the next level. Technology is a great tool, but it is even better if you can understand it or at least know how to use it effectively.

I usually encourage future generations to learn programming and how to implement technology security so they are not just simple consumers of the technology. This could increase the security of a business’s data and also how personal information is handled.”

Alvaro and the rest of the ShineForth team have decades of experience working with clients from around the country. They understand that, in our modern and competitive world, it’s almost impossible for a business to compete in the marketplace without a good website. The technologists at ShineForth are passionate about delivering superior outcomes for their clients so that they can stress less and focus more on growing their business and remaining ahead of their competition.

Invest in Managed Services and Tech-Support If maintaining and updating your own technology systems overwhelms you, it may be time to enlist help by out-sourcing your IT needs. Scantron Technology Solutions has a full suite of services to assess, design, implement, maintain, monitor, and review business environments, Windows systems, and core networking. They are constantly looking at new technologies that monitor or troubleshoot systems and networks. We talked to Dave Koopmans to learn more about Scantron’s offerings.

Dave Koopmans “Old tools and old ways of thinking are too Scantron Technology slow in today’s environment,” Dave said.

Solutions “But new technology for technology’s sake is not good either. We help clients strike a balance, with expert staff dedicated to researching and developing new products and offerings. We thoroughly vet out solutions and products so that we can recommend and support the best of breed for any solution a business needs around managed IT services. In addition, we have a full security suite for consulting, policies, and procedures review. Moving #PrintProudDigitalSmart

beyond the nuts and bolts of security, our experts can also assist with policies and procedures to manage the cybersecurity risks of today’s environment. We have discovered that many breaches are simply things that slip through the cracks—our security services identify those cracks and develop policies and procedures to close them.”

Dave shared with us how having a technology mindset can really lift a business from the old world into the new.

“Having a technology mindset means that you know change is a constant and that any time business stops change, it will fall behind in security or productivity or profit by simply failing to look for improvements in technology. Scantron is committed to researching and developing the best solutions possible and we dedicate a lot of time and resources to do this. Most small business owners can’t afford to do this. They need to partner with Scantron Technology Solutions to put themselves and their business in the best possible position.”

Another benefit of Scantron’s services is that you can get largecompany IT management at a fraction of the cost of a full-time, seasoned IT manager. And when you have a trusted IT advisor looking over your shoulder at the whole business, in addition to IT maintenance and troubleshooting, this frees up your time and energy so you can be more effective at your core competency.

“Don’t miss out on new efficiencies by sticking with old technology,” Dave said. “Give Scantron a call today.”

Though technology in our world is always changing, there is no need to fear! Advancements in technology provide endless opportunities for businesses to grow and improve. Connect with local tech experts today to create a plan for moving forward and optimizing your systems and services. A community of willing professionals is ready to assist you. The future awaits!

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GIFT BETTER BEEF THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Certified Piedmontese beef is naturally lower in fat and calories, unbelievably tender, and full of bold flavor. It’s the perfect gift for friends and family, employees and customers, and even yourself.

Head to Piedmontese.com to take 25% off all beef products and to take advantage of our business gifting rates!

Piedmontese.com 42

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| #PrintProudDigitalSmart 11/5/2019 10:55:53 AM

Holiday wrap-up In this last part of our holiday series, we’ll be helping you “wrap up” all those loose ends of your holiday preparations. We understand that everyone has busy schedules this time of year and you may sometimes feel like you don’t have time to think about the finishing touches for your holiday plans. We’d like to help out and get you started by offering a few ideas that can make your holiday extra special. We mainly want to focus on the importance of shopping local and the trend of hosting your company’s holiday party after all the busyness leading up to the new year.

Don’t just shop local, stay local! Whether it’s in Omaha or even Lincoln, when you have family or friends coming into town who can’t comfortably fit in your home, make sure to help them find the best local lodging accommodations. If your holiday plans do involve going to Lincoln, make sure you look up Lincoln’s first luxury, boutique hotel, The Kindler Hotel!

Every purchase you make has a direct, indirect, and induced impact on Lincoln’s economy. The direct impact is obvious—you give that business your money—but the indirect and induced impacts connect to a larger picture. The indirect impact unfolds as your dollars re-circulate in the community, while the induced impact refers to the additional consumer spending that happens as employees, business owners, and others spend their income in the local community.

Also, smaller, locally-owned shops have great holiday deals and steals just like the large retailers do, so you can find awesome gift items at good prices while also doing your part to sustain the local job market and help our community thrive. You’ll be able to enjoy extra care and attention without the extra cost.

“The Kindler Hotel has created a cozy atmosphere and unmatched distinctively memorable guest experience,” Cheryl Cheryl Deiro Deiro, director of sales at The Kindler The Kindler Hotel Hotel, shared with us. “This is something that, up until now, Lincoln has been lacking in its hospitality industry.

We are seeing young professionals, corporate executives, and lifelong Lincoln residents wowed by their experience at The Kindler Hotel. Our Boitano’s Lounge evokes a feeling rarely attempted in Lincoln that you’d expect from a hotel in a large urban center.”

If you want to impress your guests from out of town, book them a room at The Kindler Hotel located in downtown Lincoln. The staff at the Kindler partner with local brands to make their guests’ stays exceptional, and they are always happy to refer you to excellent local businesses to shop and dine.

Shop Local for Your Holiday Gifts December calendars are infamous for being packed with holiday parties and family commitments. With so much going on, it can be hard to find time to shop around town for gifts and festive outfits.

That is why many people end up doing most of their shopping online. We think this is a tragedy! When you shop local, you not only know exactly what you’re buying, you also put your money straight back into the local economy. This is something to keep in mind when shopping at large department stores as well, as opposed to locally-owned businesses. According to the American Independent Business Alliance, 48% of each purchase at a local independent business is re-circulated locally, compared to less than 14% of purchases at chain stores. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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“Enjoying a local product always has its benefits,” noted Joe Finegan with Piedmontese Beef. “From supporting a local, family-owned business to knowing where your food comes from, both are very important in today’s landscape. We know what the holidays are all about— surrounding yourself with family, friends, and loved ones and being grateful for time spent together. Not many things bring people together like food. Many memories are made at the dinner table.

At Piedmontese, we want to add a little Joe Finegan extra flavor to those memories this holiday Piedmontese Beef season, so we are offering a 25% discount on all of our beef products available on our website. We’ll ship right to your front door—or to the door of a friend or even a business client anywhere in the country!”

This time of year is also when people start thinking of their New Year’s resolutions. Eating healthier is a common resolution for many people. Fortunately, Certified Piedmontese Beef is actually healthier for you than standard beef, and it doesn’t sacrifice flavor or tenderness as a result. Their cattle, which are responsibly and carefully raised on family ranches across the Midwest, are also healthier. They’re never given antibiotics, steroids, or hormones.

“Piedmontese beef contains half the fat, calories, and saturated fats (comparable to Atlantic Salmon or white meat from a nutritional profile perspective), all while being an all-natural red meat protein!” Joe exclaimed. “At Piedmontese, we subscribe to a ‘ranch-to-fork’ approach. Our program is a source-verified operation rooted in a dedication to our land, ranchers, cattle, consumers, and products.”

Piedmontese’s progressive ranching protocols, such as EID (Electronic Identification) tagging technology, DNA testing for

heritage, and database tracking initiatives all ensure their beef meets their standards for care, handling, and quality. Their method ensures traceability, environmental sustainability, humane animal handling, and responsible resource management at every step in the ranching process. Piedmontese cattle are sustained on the mixed grass prairies of the Heartland and the fresh water of the Ogallala Aquifer.

Piedmontese’s “Beef Club” allows participants to enjoy premium beef either once a month or four times a year. With two different subscription levels and the choice of when it’s delivered, this is a perfect gift for a family member or friend. They also have Business Gift collections that even include seasonings to pick from to add that extra special something to your gift.

Holiday gift shopping can be stressful if you’re feeling the pressure of getting your loved one just the right gift. You want to get them something they’ll love and actually use. One way to take the pressure off is to get them a gift card to their favorite store or venue. This way, they can decide how and when they want to use it! Especially when you get a gift card to a place where memories can be made, you’re actually giving your friend or family member an experience they will cherish for a long time after the fact.

“What could be a better gift than the gift of amazing hair?”

Carissa Mangiameli, salon manager of Creative Hair Design Salon & Spa asked us with a laugh. “On December 12-14, we’ll be having our 14th annual holiday shopping event to help people give exactly that. A gift certificate to Creative Hair Design is truly the gift that keeps on giving. Not only can the recipient use it on our amazing products that we sell in-store, they can redeem it for any of our hair, nail, massage, or esthetic services. There are so many options on how they can use it depending on the person.

From a simple cut to a full set of acrylics, everyone can find some way to use it and enjoy their experience!

During the cold winter months, stop by Lincoln’s newest Hot Spots, The Kindler Hotel and Boitano’s Lounge.

We are the perfect place for you and your family to stay over the holidays with luxury room accommodations.

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402-261-7800 216 N 11th Street | Lincoln, NE 68508 @kindlerhotel

The Kindler Hotel #PrintProudDigitalSmart

During our holiday shopping event, December 12-14, if you buy $575 of gift certificates during the sale, you’ll receive a $50 gift certificate for free, for use on a future visit! All of our products will also be discounted during this three-day-only sale, so you can re-stock on products for your Ride or Die or anyone else, and you’ll also get a free gift with purchase.”

Creative Hair Design has been servicing all of Omaha’s beauty needs since 1982. Starting out as a 1,200 square foot space, the business has grown to a 16,000 square foot luxurious salon with over 55 stylists due to local popularity. Creative Hair sells a variety of beauty brands at the demand of both their stylists and customers alike. These brands include Amika, KMS, Unite, and more! Stop in this holiday season to fulfill all your hair and nail needs.

“Here at Creative Hair Design, we pride ourselves on our calming atmosphere that leads to your total relaxation. Let us melt your holiday season stress away with a massage, or ask us to prepare your hair, skin, and nails for your New Year’s Eve night out.”

OMAHA’S AUTHENTIC CAJUN EXPERIENCE. NOW AT TWO LOCATIONS! ACADIAN GRILLE - MIRACLE HILLS 725 N 114 St. 402.933.0980 ACADIAN GRILLE - DUNDEE 5018 Underwood Ave. 402.991.1552

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When in doubt, you can never go wrong giving someone the gift of something delicious to eat. No better place to go for a warm, delicious treat than The Omaha Bakery. You only have to take one step inside this charming bakery to inhale delicious aromas and feast your eyes on a beautiful display of cakes, cookies, cheesecakes, and more.

We spoke with owner and expert baker, Michelle Kaiser, for more of an inside scoop on what her bakery offers.

“We can really do anything,” Michelle said. “Customers call us all the time asking for special orders. We love to experiment and play in the kitchen, and we’re happy to create something special for you.”

Michelle is no stranger to enthusiastic compliments of “This is the best cheesecake Michelle Kaiser I’ve ever tasted in my life, ever!” or “What did you put in these cupcakes? They’re The Omaha Bakery amazing!” And while Michelle has always had an appreciation for the sweet and delectable flavors of classic treats and goodies like her beloved lemon bars and turtle pecan brownies, Michelle’s preferences have opened up in recent months to include still-delicious though healthier treats of the keto variety, which has broadened her offerings and customer base.

“We now offer a variety of delicious keto treats made with all-natural sweeteners and clean and healthy non-gmo organic ingredients,” Michelle informed us. “Even non-keto people love our delicious healthy options because it helps their bodies stay clean.

I am now celebrating one year of being pain free as a result of a keto diet. I lost 100 pounds in a year. Before, I couldn’t walk or step up onto a curb without assistance. My pain level every day was a 9 out of 10. I started keto and it changed my life.”

For the upcoming holiday season, The Omaha Bakery has tempting keto options galore—perfect for gifting the health-and-fitness foodies in your life.

“We do a lot of trays,” Michelle said. “We have a cheesecake tray with pumpkin keto cheesecake and a variety of other fun keto flavors. A cheesecake tray can include anything from peppermint candy cane or creamy mint to chocolate raspberry or plain keto cheesecake with strawberry sauce.”

And if you’re shopping for someone with a sweet tooth who likes their cake sweet and buttery—no substitutes!—The Omaha Bakery has their classic line-up of goodies as customizable and varied as you can imagine. Some families are so gone on Michelle’s goodies, they have even become a standard part of their holiday family traditions. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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“People love our take-and-bake cinnamon rolls,” Michelle said.

“We have customers who make a tradition of baking them at home so they can have them fresh on Christmas morning while they open presents with their families.”

For company gifts, office parties, or catering events, Michelle invites you to give The Omaha Bakery a call. They now cater keto meals on first and third Thursdays with options such as keto lasagna with balsamic salad, keto garlic wonder loaf, and keto tiramisu.

For a party, they can come up with a dessert bar that works within your budget. With the help of The Omaha Bakery, you can find a gift for anyone in your life who enjoys a little something sweet!

Hosting Company Holiday Parties after the New Year Having a holiday party for employees is a great thing for companies to do. It’s a time for staff and management alike to come together to celebrate success and look forward to the year ahead. However, with so many other engagements on the agenda—whether it’s a family gathering, an open house hosted by a client, a fundraising gala, or a community event—there are a lot of busy schedules to compete with. This is why a lot of companies opt to have their company party in January, after the craziness of the holidays has died down a bit.

When planning a party or outing for your staff, there are a few questions to ask yourself. Do you want to open up the invitation for plus-ones or family of staff? Is your goal to organize a comeand-go-as-you-please event with food and drinks, or do you want there to be some kind of set program in place? Are you hoping to host the festivities at your office or at an off-site venue?

If you want to take the festivities out of the office, Acadian Grille is a great option!

“We just opened up our second location in Dundee, which would be the perfect space for any downtown office outing,”

Owner Dan O’Brien told us. “The new location has a full bar and a laid back, historical atmosphere. It’s the perfect space to decompress after work. A simple reservation is all it takes to have a great employee event. Just relax, have some drinks, and enjoy each other outside of the nine-to-five.”

Hosting your office party at Acadian Grille can bring a truly special, spicy vibe to your event with tempting menu Dan O’Brien options such as smoked meatloaf with Acadian Grille smoked gouda and poblano peppers; pecan crusted snapper; or bbq baby back ribs with zip-dang! barbecue sauce. Acadian Grille also mixes a variety of perfectly-crafted cocktails and mocktails, such as their tangy Trinidad Sour or their non-alcoholic Jazz Riff.

If you want to do something truly unique, host your office party on a Saturday morning and indulge yourself in Acadian Grille’s brunch menu offerings at their Dundee location. Enjoy eggs benedict with crab cakes, delicious French toast with bread pudding, a customized omelet with andouille sausage and greens or peppers and cheese—or even chicken and waffles! Finish off your morning with a refreshing mimosa or a bottomless pitcher of chicorg blend coffee. And don’t forget the complimentary hot and sugary beignets!

At the end of the day as you’re fondly remembering the good times you had with your coworkers at the company breakfast, kick back and let the Acadian Grille perfect your day and give you time to spend with your family and visiting guests, if you’re still hosting! Spend your energy, instead, on good times with those you love most rather than slaving in a hot kitchen.

DON’T STRESS ABOUT THE HOLIDAYS THIS YEAR. Stay relaxed this holiday season and buy your gifts early. Maybe even buy yourself a little treat too.

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“Instead of stressing about how to feed all your visiting relatives or how to entertain your friends, come have a glass of wine and a nice warm, made-from-scratch meal at Acadian Grille,” Dan said. “Or, if you don’t feel like cooking, call us and we’ll have your favorites cooked up and ready for pick up. When you have family over, cooking and especially cleaning up after can be such a hassle!”

We asked Dan what specific dishes he recommends, whether for the holidays or any other time: “Everything on our menu is prepared to satisfy, such as our burgers, sautéed pastas, shrimp and crawfish dishes, and legendary tacos. I also highly recommend our Southern Sweet Potato Pie with a side of homemade ice cream!” Dan said.

“This dessert item we offer will make your sweet tooth happy!

We also have a kids menu so we can cater to the whole family.”

If you’re looking to do something for your office party that is more out of the ordinary and can incorporate both fun and team-building into your experience, House of Conundrum has a captivating variety of themed escaped rooms that can take you away from the world for an intense hour of mystery-cracking and team problem-solving—a sure way to produce lots of laughs and good memories! And the great news is, the larger your group, the less it costs per person.

House of Conundrum’s escape rooms are anything but boring with categories ranging from classic and premium to deluxe, so you can choose your own adventure: • Take a trip on an “escape ship” to the Final Frontier in a Star Trek-themed adventure full of new and exciting clues for you to explore and boldly escape in time. Live long and puzzle!

• Wander deep in the bowels of the Bat Cave in a Batman-themed challenge where the Joker lurks—he knows something you don’t!

• Travel back in time to aid our nation’s founders in a patriotic experience as you encounter a fellow revolutionary and discover whether he is friend or foe.

• Fight time and fate as you try to escape a devastating virus and the resultant zombie apocalypse...but beware. The virus has spread even to the scientists closest to the cure. Will you and your fellow survivors finish before it’s too late?

• And more!

With so many choices, there is bound to be a challenge to suit your office staff. It will be an experience you never forget. Your employees will be talking about it for weeks!

If taking your office staff to a restaurant or puzzling over a mystery in an escape room isn’t exactly what you had in mind for your office party and you’d rather put on something of your own design, Honeyman Rent-All has everything you need to pull it off!

With their new Party & Event Rentals location at 11226 Wright Cir., Honeyman has a variety of fantastic items and gadgets that can take your party to the next level! They have beaded chandeliers, crystal gem trees, tables and chairs, staging, pipe and drapes including white drapes with LED lights, a 20” X 36” portable gas griddle and a 20” X 52” griddle on a fixed stand, dance floors and bars, chafers, dispensers, glasses and china...

You can host any kind of party you can dream up! Whether it’s an elegant affair or a casual family night of fun, Honeyman has everything you could possibly need. They can help you with bar service, dishes and serving wear, setting up a dance floor, décor of all varieties—the list goes on!

Once you’ve made your plans for your office party and rented all your equipment, if you’re feeling a little too worn out to then also plan and prepare food for the event, we recommend letting The Old Fashioned Garden Café give you a hand!

The Garden Café has been an Omaha tradition since 1985.

Their food is prepared the way Grandma made it. With delicious #PrintProudDigitalSmart

402.991.9200 /TheOmahaBakery 608 S. 72nd St. • Omaha, NE omelets, garden griddles, famous potato casseroles, breakfast sandwiches, and other egg-citing items, your group will be full of holiday cheer! Don’t forget about their yummy mimosas and bloody mary’s either—it’s hard not to have a jolly time after sipping on a couple of those drinks!

The Garden Café has wonderful lunch and dinner items that can be catered or ordered for carry out, such as chicken fried steak, glazed ham, pot roast, fried chicken, roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and buttered corn. They can take care of all the cooking while you focus on other party-planning details.

The staff at The Garden Café love sharing the joy of the holidays with everyone they serve, in and out of the restaurant, and they believe in shopping local and building the local community through holiday events and purchases. We talked to Brent Ganey at the Garden Café for his thoughts on why this is so important.

“Shopping local is very important to the continuing success of our local business community,” he said. “Though the ease of the big box/online next day delivery is convenient, you are not helping support the local companies that you ask for donations from when your children’s little league team needs a sponsor! Every dollar matters to local businesses and their employees!”

Not only does Brent see the value in circulating our dollars within the local community, he also understands the value of shopping smart and sticking to a budget, which may mean shifting some of your holiday plans and events to January when prices are lower if you’re looking to save money.

“I think most people would agree that operating on a budget is a smart way to do business,” Brent said. “Since space and time are limited in December, product demand is high and so are prices.

January, on the other hand, has much lower consumer demand, and, therefore, better deals may be available to the consumer.

There is also a noticeably reduced demand on employees’ time and attendance in January versus December. Holding a January event could be easier and even more appreciated, whereas a midDecember event might get lost in the mix and quickly forgotten. An office party in January could leave a longer lasting impression of good feelings and memories among members of an office staff.”

Whether you choose to wrap-up your holiday events in December or January, we hope you will take the time to turn to local sources for your gifts and event planning as a way of enriching both your own life and the life of our community! Most especially, we hope you have a wonderful holiday season with all of your loved ones and friends. May it be a memorable one!

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Your Office. Your Key. Flat Fee. Love where you work

When you choose to conduct your business at Modern Work Suites & Studios, you are choosing to pay a flat rate for a private office space that comes completely furnished—and you get to select the furniture pieces out of a catalog that will suit your needs, along with the color of accent wall you like best.

Modern Work has single, double, and triple studios...all the way up to large suites that can office 40 people!

Leasing one of the suites or studios from Modern Work means you get access to all of the amenities, which include internet access; four separate conference rooms for large meetings or entertaining clients; a 60s-style “Mixx Lounge” where tenants and guests can relax and enjoy free coffee, along with food and beverage items for sale; frequent food truck visits; a low-impact gym; free and easy-access parking; a business service center where things like copying and scanning documents are available; a photo and video studio; a mailing and packaging service; and game rooms to blow off some steam with activities such as ping-pong, pool, and Lego building. The best amenity of all, though, may very well be the built-in networking aspect.

Modern Work, a 50,000-square-foot “Business Ecosystem” that continues to grab the attention of local business leaders and entrepreneurs, is designed to ignite collaboration and connection. One way Modern Work accomplishes this is by hosting monthly Networking Mixxers and partnering with local organizations to host events. So not only are tenants constantly surrounded by other local experts in various different industries who also lease office space at Modern Work, new faces are coming in the doors almost every week.

Learn about events happening at Modern Work Suites & Studios on Facebook!

Schedule a tour with Modern Work’s on-site manager, Kate Gallagher: info@modernworksuites.com

Centrally located off of 84th and F Streets — just two quick turns off of I-80!

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