Strictly Business Omaha - May 2020

STRICTLYBUSINESSOMAHA.COM

OMAHA • MAY 2020

TM

2020

• Employing Omaha • Responding to COVID-19 CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS • Hillcrest Health Services • Sandhills Global • ActionCOACH • BELFOR Property Restoration • Aqua Systems

RIVER CITY SIX

IN THIS ISSUE

Excellence – Earned, Not Given.

MICHAEL WOHLGEMUTH VERN KATHOL Scantron Technology Gratton Warehouse Solutions

BRAD LAURITSEN KPE Architecture – Engineering – Forensics

MATT URBANEC Presto-X

TRACY KOENEKE Eleven Twenty-Three

MICHAEL DRAPER CFO Systems LLC

AGO

Strictly Business Magazine PO BOX 57397, Lincoln, NE 68505

We’re here to help you keep going.

Adjusting to a new way of working isn’t easy, but we’re here to help you keep business moving. With tools for working together, even when you’re apart, and dedicated 24/7 support, we’ll help make this new way of working work better for you.

To learn more about our resources for making it work, visit coxbusiness.com/working or call (402) 934-3891.

Not all services are available everywhere. Learn more at coxbusiness.com. © 2020 Cox Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

Looking to HIT A HOMERUN with your employees when it comes to your benefits?

Add us to your team to make this happen

From L-R: Wendi Peterson-Stott, Lisa Daniels, and Candace Chapman

Facing risk head on.

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Grow More Good The nonprofit organizations that make Omaha a great place to live deserve their day of recognition. Omaha Gives! is a one-day online fundraising event to show off the area’s spirit of giving, raise awareness about local nonprofits, and celebrate the collective effort it takes to make this city great.

www.Heart.org/Omaha (402) 810-6870

www.santamonicahouse.org (402) 558-7088

www.jehfoundation.org (712) 396-6040

www.jdrf.org/nebraska (402) 397-2873

www.stephencenter.org (402) 725-5442

firstrespondersomaha.org (402) 218-1234

www.encapnebraska.org (402) 616-5963

www.CornBeltLeague.com www.MVP4Life.org (402) 598-4998

www.yesomaha.org (402) 345-5187

www.ThriVinci.org (402) 281-3462

www.domesti-pups.org (402) 465-4201

www.parkinsonsnebraska.org (402) 715-4707

www.opendoormission.org (402) 829-1507

www.childsaving.org (402) 553-6000

namiomaha.org (402) 345-8101

Go to OmahaGives.org and make a gift on May 20th.

• Facetime/Skype calls with families • Doing activity packets with puzzles, word searches, Sudoku, letter writing materials, etc.

• Trivia worksheets (with a timeframe to complete) that they can work on with team members and family members over the phone • Making bracelets and other crafts • Running a snack cart with food and drinks • Doing chocolate runs for residents who love chocolate • One-on-one visits, including spa days with manicures, hand massages, warm towels and hair care • Streamed church services on tablets and iPads • One-on-one fitness sessions to include dance therapy, balloon toss, and basketball toss, as well as anxietyreducing activities like yoga, meditation, and aromatherapy

It’s these types of programs and activities that lift spirits during this time, so much so that these seniors have become a source of encouragement to the rest of us.

Hillcrest Health Services meets the needs and goals of aging adults by offering the region’s largest continuum of senior health services, with devoted team members who deliver care to customers as if they were their own family members. Hillcrest has campuses in Bellevue, Papillion, Omaha, Gretna and Lincoln. Skilled home health services are offered in 11 counties in Nebraska and Iowa, hospice services are provided in 7 counties in Nebraska, and in-home personal care services are available in Douglas and Sarpy counties.

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

During this challenging time, Hillcrest Health Services is working toward preventing the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) by following best practices to limit exposure to residents and team members. While internal group activities have been suspended and all external resident outings have been postponed until further notice, Hillcrest’s recreation teams are constantly coming up with creative activities for residents to stay engaged and connected. These activities include: • In-house TV channel to live stream directly to resident rooms at a few of the Hillcrest locations

o o o o o o

Live concerts by talented Hillcrest team members Community-wide virtual Bingo TED talks with reflection questions to follow Exercise classes University lectures Virtual tours (one week residents took a virtual tour of the Joslyn Art Museum)

• Library on wheels for residents to check out books, puzzles, and movies

• ZOOM discussion conversations with Bellevue University

for Grand Lodge residents (a professor is going to host a political discussion on the upcoming election) • Pen Pal Program!

PEN PAL PROGRAM email encouraging notes, letters, inspiring quotes, photos, drawings & more to

letters@hillcresthealth.com

For a full list of the precautions Hillcrest is taking in light of COVID-19 concerns, visit hillcresthealth.com/covid-19. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

MAY 2020 Strictly Business

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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

Responding to a Crisis — An Opportunity to Define Your Company’s Values When the COVID-19 wave hit Omaha’s shores, I braced myself. There was a lot going through my mind as a business owner.

First and foremost, I thought about our clients. The whole goal of Strictly Business is to promote local businesses to help them succeed, so it’s not fun to watch that success be threatened by something so wildly out of my control. Ultimately, our clients’ success is our success.

The article goes on to say, “A lot of what brands do in the coming months may feel like temporary strategies, but what if this represents an opportunity for brands to define who they truly are and who they will continue to be for the next decade or beyond?”

This is really interesting, and it’s a call to action for us business owners. The decisions we make for our business during the COVID-19 pandemic will be a part of our genetic makeup as an organization going forward. These decisions are being seen and felt by our staff, partners, customers, neighbors, etc. On that same note, businesses The decisions we make for need to be prepared for the floodgates to back up. I believe that the businesses our business during the open that are going to come out of this successfully COVID-19 pandemic will are the ones that never lose sight of the light be a part of our genetic at the end of the tunnel.

There is no denying that social distancing has put a complete halt on many areas of our lives.

While there are silver linings to every cloud, such as gaining perspective on what is really important in life like I talked about in last month’s Letter from the President, this particular cloud is casting a pretty dark shadow on our economy. makeup as an organization When the severity of this crisis knocked at On a local level, I’ve seen the impact it’s having going forward.

Strictly Business’s door, Shayne and I brought on small businesses. Many have had to reinvent the team together to come up with a strategy. themselves, say goodbye to amazing employees, In addition to letting half of the production and even close their doors completely for the team work from home, our biggest initiative was to connect with time being. However, I’ve also witnessed many companies rise each of our clients to ask them how we could be doing even more to the occasion, regardless of how uncomfortable the transition to help them share their message. We made some changes to our has been, and consumers are making even more of a conscious editorial calendar to focus on how businesses are responding effort to buy and spend local. It makes me so proud to conduct to the coronavirus, and we took an even stronger approach to business in Omaha. online sharing than normal to make sure our clients’ content is still Hard decisions are going to have to be made one way or another being seen. during this crisis, but several industry experts have pointed out that I also want to take this opportunity to say thank you to all our pressing pause on marketing efforts may not be the best approach clients who are sticking with Strictly Business during this time, and to take. According to a brief conducted by MarketingDive, 43% all of our readers for their support as well. Everything we do is of consumers find it reassuring to hear from brands they know for you. and trust during a crisis. I want to encourage businesses not to sever communication with their audience but, instead, change their message. An article by Ogilvy says it best, “This is not a time to Let Strictly Business help you lock in your status as try to market or sell, but rather it is a time to reinforce the values THE EXPERT in your industry, utilizing print, the internet, and social that define leading organizations.” media. Find out how by contacting Paige at (402) 466-3330.

CONTENTS NEWS

4 Business 31 Personnel

34 Nonprofit 42 Health

SPOTLIGHTS

1 13 20 29 48

Hillcrest Health Services Sandhills Global ActionCOACH BELFOR Property Restoration Aqua Systems

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 21 Greater Omaha Chamber Awards Feature

FEATURE STORIES

44 Employing Omaha 46 Responding to COVID-19 2 Strictly Business MAY 2020

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 ©2020 by PZAK, Inc. Third Class Postage Paid at Lincoln, NE 68505

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ABOUT THE COVER

Excellence – Earned, Not Given.

There’s no doubt that excellence is a way of life in Omaha and the surrounding region. That’s reflected in our people and in the work they do. The Greater Omaha Chamber and Premier Bank are here to celebrate that excellence and recognize the businesses that demonstrate innovation, leadership and n.

Give Not Excellence – Earned, philanthropy.

The Business Excellence Awards are an annual recognition of organizations that elevate our community and make Greater Omaha a better place to live, work and play.

Honorees were selected from more than 50 nominations by a committee comprised of representatives from six regional companies and the Greater Omaha Chamber. In short, the 2020 award winners are truly deserving.

The Chamber presents awards in three categories: Leadership, Innovation, and Philanthropy, with additional recognition for Sustained Excellence and major milestone anniversaries.

OMAHA • MAY 2020

TM

M STRICTLYBUSINESSOMAHA.CO

In ThIs Issue

• Employing Omaha 19 • Responding to COVIDClient SpotlightS • Hillcrest Health Services • Sandhills Global • ActionCOACH tion • BELFOR Property Restora • Aqua Systems

RIVER CITY SIX

2020

VERN KATHOL MICHAEL WOHLGEMUTH Scantron Technology Gratton Warehouse Solutions

BRAD LAURITSEN KPE Architecture – Engineering – Forensics

MATT URBANEC Presto-X

TRACY KOENEKE Eleven Twenty-Three

MICHAEL DRAPER CFO Systems LLC

AGO

Strictly Business Magazine NE 68505 PO BOX 57397, Lincoln,

Strictly Business is proud to be the Media Sponsor of the Greater Omaha Chamber’s 2020 Business Excellence Awards.

STAY CONNECTED /StrictlyBusinessMagazineOmaha

To Get Your FREE Subscription:

24/7 @SBMAGOMAHA

www.StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com/subscribe-strictly-business #PrintProudDigitalSmart

So, how does a business demonstrate excellence?

Leadership—A vision of the future, growing an organization, and developing employees; these are the hallmarks of catalytic leaders.

Clarity and demonstration of purpose in all the practices and policies.

An outcome that is representative of the values at the core of the business. These are not platitudes, but the cornerstones of leadership philosophies that define excellence and inspire it from all who come into contact with the organization.

Innovation—The most challenging phrase in business is “that’s how we’ve always done it.” Those who demonstrate excellence in innovation fly in the face of that conceit, always looking to improve in efficacy and efficiency. The honorees in this category change the establishment, shift paradigms and buck old trends. They see and seize opportunity and find new ways to do things. Each winner has established innovation as part of their everyday routine and they definitely do not coast.

Philanthropy—Serving others is deeply ingrained in our Midwestern ethos. By helping the community, we understand that we help ourselves, and that a rising tide lifts us all. Organizations with a culture of giving help advance Omaha’s overall health and well-being. Those that prioritize paying back and empowering others understand that we’re measured by a bottom line of caring and support. The improvement of our community rests on all of our shoulders, and those who demonstrate excellence in philanthropy carry that burden willingly, proudly and ably.

Sustained Excellence—For many organizations, being recognized once isn’t the goal. Instead, they shoot for sustained excellence and make a case to be honored year after year. These businesses deserve their own category and are the models for consistency we all strive to be.

Milestones—Experience comes with time, and every year that an organization operates is a testament to its ability to serve, allowing it to uplift the community and contribute to the strength and growth of the region.

Milestones matter, and anniversaries mark the dedication of organizational stakeholders, as well as the commitment of customers to the operation.

Award Winners and Milestone Recipients are displayed on pages 21-28.

Strictly Business Magazine (402) 466-3330 Office@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

www.StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com MAY 2020 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS Nebraska’s First MaidPro Franchise Opens in Omaha, Serves Clients Through Crisis

Deep Sky Wealth Announces New Office Location in Omaha

In July of 2019, Xavier Vouin opened the first MaidPro franchise in the state of Nebraska—MaidPro Omaha! Vouin immigrated to the United States from France with the passion, commitment to quality service, and work effort to make his dream of becoming a small business owner come true. Since coming to Nebraska, Vouin has grown his team and is still hiring today. MaidPro Omaha is looking for individuals who love to clean and are willing to train those with no experience. MaidPro strives to meet the needs of the community on all their cleaning and disinfecting needs. They will be open and cleaning to help community members fight the virus in their workspaces and homes.

Deep Sky Wealth, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, recently moved into a new office space at 1111 N 102 Ct., STE 320, in Omaha.

The advisory practice teamed up with the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce to host a ribboncutting ceremony on February 21 to celebrate. In attendance to cut the ribbon were Private Wealth Advisors David Keller, CFP®, BFATM, ChFC®, APMA®, Gabriel Kerlik, CFP®, BFATM, CRPC®, APMA®, MBA, Steve Sadler CFP®, BFATM, APMA® (not pictured), and Financial Advisors Jaime Blakely, CRPC® and Joseph Zeisler, CRPC®, APMA®. As the Deep Sky Wealth team continues to grow, this new office allows more space for the team to provide exemplary service to both current and future clients.

As a private wealth advisory practice, Deep Sky Wealth provides personalized financial advice that is anchored in a solid understanding of client needs and expectations through one-on-one relationships. The diverse team of financial advisors at Deep Sky Wealth focus on strategies for retirement, insurance, investments, estate planning, and wealth preservation, just in brief. Together, they will document your goals, track your progress, and make ongoing recommendations to help you diversify your portfolio and adjust to whatever life brings—both the expected and the unexpected. For more information, go to deepskywealth. com or contact (402) 334-7265 / deepskywealth@ampf.com.

In order to help local business owners maintain a safe and healthy work environment, MaidPro has nationally launched a new Daily Disinfection Defense Program. This service provides a detailed cleaning and disinfection to common areas and high-touch zones to offices around Omaha. For essential businesses, this service will give the peace of mind that employees are safe in the office.

To learn more information on MaidPro Omaha, go to maidpro. com/Omaha. Contact MaidPro at (402) 609-7566 / Omaha.ne@ maidpro.com to schedule your cleaning appointment or to sign up for the Daily Disinfection Defense Program.

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Strictly Business MAY 2020

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BUSINESS NEWS Bridge to Better Living Introduces Virtual Consultations and Tours To meet the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Bridge to Better Living is utilizing technology to allow them to remain in touch with clients and communities during the crisis. Consultations and tours will now take place via virtual applications by phone, computer, and digital media until one-on-one services resume.

Seniors and their loved ones are still able to continue contacting transition consultants with their needs, questions, and concerns. Bridge to Better Living remains committed to Placement with Passion® through challenging times.

Serving seniors is the heart of Bridge to Better Living, and their transition consultants have expanded their roles to help the community during this crisis. Staff members are delivering Tabitha Meals on Wheels, donating blood, making face masks, and contacting seniors who are isolated. Families needing assistance to find independent, assisted, memory care, or long-term care are encouraged to contact Bridge to Better Living, a no-cost-to-client service reaching Lincoln, Omaha, and surrounding areas. For more information, go online to BridgetoBetterLiving.com or call (402) 802-3301.

We’re in this together.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month Don’t put your mental health on hold.

7701 Pacific St, Ste 100A, Omaha | 308-210-8487 info@clearwatercounselingne.org | clearwatercounselingpc.org

How great careers & great companies GROW.

BBB Offers Education and Tips for Avoiding Coronavirus Scams Because the public is surrounded by conflicting information about COVID-19 that makes it difficult to figure out who and what to listen to, BBB is offering information and tips for avoiding COVID-19 scams. BBBs are being bombarded by a myriad of reports about scams. They recognize that, unfortunately, when under stress, people are more likely to fall for them.

Below is some advice and tips from your BBB to help you navigate fake news and scams.

Types of Scams Related to the Coronavirus Crisis: • Phony treatments and cures that could be dangerous. The FDA, FTC, and DOJ have landed on companies and websites marketing these false cures.

• Bogus offers for government grants and stimulus payments promoted through phone calls, emails, text messages, and social media. The crooks say an upfront fee is required to get the money.

• Fraudulent websites selling face masks, home testing kits, and even vaccines. There are no approved home testing kits or vaccines.

• Calls to businesses purportedly from government unemployment offices asking for confidential information about employees.

• Phishing emails with dangerous links and attachments • Investment scams • And more BBB Tips to Avoid Becoming the Victim of a Coronavirus Scam: • Be skeptical of miracle cures and consult with a healthcare professional before using any product.

• Check out any seller with the BBB and look for reviews online.

• Remember that the government will not ask you to pay a fee or provide your SSN, credit card, or bank account number to get a stimulus payment. Grants usually flow through nonprofits rather than directly to consumers.

• Don’t click on links or attachments in emails, text messages, or social media messages unless you’re sure they’re legitimate. Don’t assume they are because they appear to come from a friend.

• Thoroughly research any investment opportunity as well as the seller.

Read more about these and other scams on the Better Business Bureau’s website, BBB.org/scamstudies. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

402.983.8888 | www.cfos3.com 10832 Old Mill Road, Suite 2, Omaha, NE

Leadership on Demand CFO • HR • Controller • Senior Accountant Fractional, Part-time, Interim or TimeShare

402.884.0066 | www.cfosystemsllc.com 10832 Old Mill Road, Suite 2, Omaha, NE MAY 2020 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS Sarpy County Announces Battle Plan to Continue Supporting their Community

ActionCOACH Announces Free 5-Point Plan to Assist Small Business Owners

In order to bridge the physical distance between business owners and other professionals, the Sarpy County Chamber has set up a battle plan that utilizes connection and creativity. The Chamber has added a new “COVID-19 Resources” page to their website (saprychamber. org/covid-19-resources). The page is regularly updated. It features information regarding financial assistance, education about small business recovery, telecommunication options, promotional strategies, how to support employees from home, and more. They’re also featuring a number of personal resources like emotional support lines staffed by counselors.

At the first sign of possible restrictions on large gatherings, the Sarpy Chamber acted quickly to utilize Zoom for all their weekly and monthly group meetings. They’ve moved all events online, including their free educational webinar services for members. The Chamber has also organized “Local Business Blasters” to feature eateries and businesses that were originally supposed to host the events. Even though members can’t gather there doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy their delicious food or drink options or virtually tour the facility. Go online to sarphychamber. org/events to learn more about all upcoming events.

The Sarpy Chamber has also worked with the Patriarch Distillery to donate over 1,000 bottles of hand sanitizer for first responders. They’re currently hosting a food drive to support the four food pantries that collectively serve all of Sarpy County’s cities as well as Ralston. Their team has picked up curbside donations in many neighborhoods and grocery stores. To learn more about their COVID-19 efforts, go to sarpychamber.org.

In order to bring some relief to the small business owners in the Omaha metro area, ActionCOACH Omaha is providing a free 5-point plan titled, “Plan Don’t Panic.” The programs are all free and are not a promotion device or sales presentation.

1. Webinars – ActionCOACH provided a free Survive and Thrive webinar on Zoom presented by Founder Brad Sugars.

2. Coaching Sessions – Local ActionCOACHes will be providing free online or phone crisis planning sessions with as many business owners as possible. Sessions are first come first serve and can be reserved by emailing PlanDontPanic@actioncoachomaha.com.

3. Online Courses – Success Omaha by ActionCOACH has uploaded three free online courses on telework/telecommuting, crisis management, and managing remote teams which can be accessed at successomaha.com/courses.

4. Online Forum – Business owners can share ideas, concerns, and the latest news at plandontpanicforum.info.

5. Online Workshops – ActionCOACH’s regular, free monthly workshops are now available online. Register at 5waysomaha.info and 6stepsomaha.info.

6. BONUS 6th point: Brad Sugars, founder of ActionCOACH, has released a 10 session Survive and Thrive video series available free for business owners online at www.surviveandthriveomaha.info.

ActionCOACH Omaha is always ready to assist local business owners with coaching, training, ideas, strategies, and an understanding ear. Now, more than ever, they are ready to support fellow local Omaha businesses.

Visit jimbarger.actioncoach.com/plan-dont-panic to learn more.

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Strictly Business MAY 2020

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BUSINESS NEWS University of Nebraska Offers 150+ HighQuality Online Programs Collectively offering more than 150 online degree, certificate, and endorsement programs, from bachelor to doctoral across 16 fields of study, the online programs from the University of Nebraska’s four campuses are available in high-demand areas such as business, health care, computer science, and education.

University of Nebraska Online’s programs give adult learners from across the state and around the world access to be taught by the same expert faculty who teach at the four University of Nebraska campuses. Faculty and staff are extraordinarily responsive to student needs, creating a highly interactive community of learners that encourages and values collaboration between professors and students. Go to online.nebraska.edu for key resources on exploring the programs available.

BNI® Launches New bni online™ Platform for Virtual Meetings In March, BNI rolled out a new bni online™ platform. Embracing their core value of Traditions + Innovation, this new resource combines the structure of face-to-face meetings with the technology and tools to connect virtually anywhere. Together, BNI is its members navigate the challenges of the current business environment to ensure they emerge stronger than ever in the future.

BNI Heartland members in the Omaha and Lincoln area are utilizing bni online™ to keep their referral network going during this time. Already, members have passed hundreds of referrals and closed hundreds of thousands of dollars of business through bni online™.

BNI® is the world’s leading referral organization. Members generate word-of-mouth business for each other through structured, results-driven groups around the world. To learn more about how BNI and bni online™ can help you and your business, visit bniheartland.com or contact the regional office at (402) 880-6311 / info@bniheartland.com. ®

A Roofing Specialist You Can TRUST SERVICES: Roofing Siding Windows Gutters

Storm Damage & Insurance Claim Specialists Dedicated to providing the highest level of QUALITY, SERVICE, and PROTECTION. Contact us today! 402.999.ROOF | RedLionRoofing.com

Best Care EAP Offers Helpline for COVID-19 Emotional Support Best Care Employee Assistance Program (EAP), a division of Methodist Health System, is currently offering a 24/7 COVID-19 Emotional Support Helpline for their current clients.

Clients get access to a clinician at any time of day who can offer helpful tips/resources which are relevant to current circumstances.

Further, Methodist is offering a community helpline to help anyone in need of emotional support. What is being observed during this time is that it’s normal to have feelings of fear, anxiety, and depression, and it’s important to know you don’t have to manage it alone. Call the Methodist Emotional Support Line between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. to speak with a licensed counselor.

Best Care EAP is dedicated to helping employees and staff members focus on their jobs when problems in their personal lives get overwhelming.

Contact Best Care EAP to learn more about the services offered at (402) 354-8000 / (800) 801-4182, by email at eap@bestcareeap.org, or by visiting their website for more information at www.bestcareeap.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

MAY 2020 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS Copps Pizza Company Donates Hundreds of Pizzas to Essential Workers and Community

National Association of Women in Construction Posts Upcoming Event Schedule

In all the chaos of COVID-19, local businesses like Copps Pizza Company have been doing the most to help others in their time of need. In the last two months, Copps has donated over 800 pizzas to laid off community members, nonprofits, and hospitals. Local churches and nonprofits like Koinonia & Friends of Christ, Eagle’s Nest Worship Center, Women’s to Women’s, and Clare Senior Advisors have been receiving the pizza donations to distribute all across Omaha. Copps has also been delivering pizzas to essential workers in ICUs, NICUs, emergency rooms, and other hospital departments that are at the forefront of fighting the pandemic.

Copps prides themselves on having some of the most unique pizza offerings on this side of the Mississippi. Their menu features multiple crust options (including Keto and Cauliflower), a variety of sauces, and delicious wings. They also have a variety of gluten free options!

For the kids, Copps has a make-your-own pizza kit that includes four dough balls to customize and bake.

Copps Pizza Company is a locally owned and operated restaurant that is committed to the Omaha community. To learn more and see their full menu, visit coppspizza.com. Order online or call (402) 322-2219. Their Facebook (@CoppsPizzaCo) is always advertising specials and deals! Help Copps donate more by supporting their Go Fund Me page.

The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Greater Omaha Chapter #116 holds its monthly meeting on the second Thursday of each month.

Meeting times and activities are as follows:

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• May 14 at 3:30 p.m. — Construction Education Course at UNO Durham School • June 11 at TBD — Event TBD • July 9 at 7 p.m. — NAWIC Companies “Commercial Break” • August 13 at 4 p.m. —Tradeworks presentation • September 10 from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. — Volunteering with Habitat Builder’s Blitz • October 8 at 4 p.m. — Pumpkins & Power Tools • November 12 at 3 p.m. — Wellness/Work-Life Balance seminar • December 10 at 11:30 a.m. — Potluck lunch and gift-wrapping member’s donations for charity In addition, the NAWIC/CFMA Golf Outing has been slated for August 11, kicking off at 11 a.m. at The Club at Indian Creek. More information and registration will be posted on the website at www. nawicomaha.com, along with changes and updates as the coronavirus potentially impacts the schedule above. Be sure to check out the “You Can” video entry on Facebook (@nawicomaha) for some inspiration!

WE MISS YOU! We’re missing you as much as you miss us.

Support your stylist in the simplest way possible…wait for us! We look forward to returning to work and doing what we love most—making you look and feel your best!

We appreciate your understanding and look forward to seeing you as soon as we can!

@ CHDSALON 12025 PACIFIC STREET | 402-330-5660 | CREATIVEHAIRDESIGN.COM

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Strictly Business MAY 2020

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BUSINESS NEWS Mid-Plains Industries Makes Protective Shields for Retailers In an effor t to assist small businesses, which make up 99% of the economy, Mid-Plains Industries based in Columbus, NE, is making portable plastic shields for retail workers: Protek-Shield. The shields are portable and provide a semipermanent barrier for face-toface interactions.

“Our retail businesses are looking for ways to stay open, and we wanted to find a way to help protect their employees,” said President and CEO Brian Turner. “The shields also give peace of mind to customers who are also cautious about public interactions yet still need to go to the store for supplies.”

Protek-Shields are made with a 16-gallon stainless steel frame and a 1/16” plexiglass shield. They come in widths of 24” or 36”.

Popular uses for them include gas stations, convenience stores, banks, retail stores, and any business that has face-to-face interactions with customers.

Mid-Plains Industries is a division of Central Confinement Service LLC and serves a large variety of manufacturers including food processors, agricultural, pharmaceutical, automotive, and other industries. They provide everything from simple parts to complex weldments straight to shelf or assembly line. For more information, contact Brian Turner at (402) 563-6057 / bturner@cencon.com or go online to midplainsind.com.

BELFOR Property Restoration Institutes New Cleaning Program in Response to COVID-19

We care for your pet’s remains in a dignified, sensitive & timely manner.

Septic Tanks • Grease Traps Your pet will be handled & returned in the respectful manner you both deserve.

2660 Ed Babe Gomez Ave | Omaha (402) 932-0962

Hydro-Jetting • Car Wash Pits

(402) 332-5575 MidlandPumpingService.com

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150+ Programs Online.

• Business Administration, BS • Critical & Creative Thinking, MA • General Administration, BMS • MBA • Nonprofit Administration, BMS • Organizational and Relational Communication, BS • Public Administration, MPA • And more

online.nebraska.edu

In addition to offering restoration ser vices, BELFOR Proper ty Restoration offers deep cleaning services at varying levels and has recently announced a new procedure for cleaning in response to COVID-19. BELFOR is considered an essential business for Nebraska during this uncertain time and will continue to responsibly serve their clients. They are able to clean any space with their CDC approved cleaning solutions and proper PPE to keep their employees safe out in the field.

BELFOR’s new cleaning program was designed specifically for the pandemic to be sure they are taking the right precautions while continuing to assist their clients. Part of this program is performing back-to-work cleanings to help business owners and their employees feel better about returning to the work space. There are three levels of cleaning to choose from: CV1 (precautionary cleaning), CV2 (suspected case cleaning), and CV3 (confirmed COVID-19 case). Contact the BELFOR office directly for more information. While they take on these new endeavors, BELFOR will continue to bring their clients’ property back to wholeness after a pipe burst, fire, trauma, etc.

BELFOR Property Restoration specializes in restoring properties damaged by fire, wind, water, or a natural disaster. They are fully equipped to help in any way possible to get your business or home back to normal in the event of an emergency. Find out more at www. belfor.com, or call (402) 891-1300 to give a shout-out to BELFOR for their effort to give back to the community by choosing a different local restaurant every day to order lunch for their team, by volunteering with the Salvation Army, and by working on a remodel for First Responders Association’s new facility. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Jeff Letmkuhl Public Administration, MPA University of Nebraska at Omaha

MAY 2020 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS StorageMart Implements Immediate Changes to Protect and Better Serve Customers To better serve the community, StorageMart has implemented a variety of c hanges to be proactive in facing the COVID-19 pandemic. For downsizing businesses and individuals, StorageMart has generously decided to start giving a one month free trial for new customers while units last. Additionally, they are encouraging all new clients to either use the “Express Checkout” online or to call one of their storage experts to decrease office traffic. Knowledgeable staff members are remotely available 24/7 to find the right unit for each customer. Only one customer is allowed in the office at a time to comply with the governor’s mandate, and preference will be given to the elderly or those at risk. Adjusted office hours, increased wages and time off, and new safety policies involving cash handling have been implemented to protect employees as well.

Even during difficult times, StorageMart is dedicated to delivering a warm and friendly self storage environment to every customer. They value respect, integrity, innovation, and giving back. Office hours have been adjusted individually, so StorageMart highly recommends going online to storage-mart.com/covid-19 to find more information.

Call (844) 715-7638 at any time to learn about which storage unit would best fit your or your business’ needs.

McGill Restoration Initiates Global Emergency COVID-19 Relief Effort McGill Restoration initiated a global emergency relief effort on March 30 to get KN95 respirators and surgical masks in the hands of hospitals and healthcare workers as they put themselves at risk on the front line, screening and treating individuals with COVID-19.

“Some might see the daily rise of COVID-19 cases and forget these numbers represent a mother, father, a brother, or a sister,” said Tim McGill, owner and president of McGill Restoration. “Every day, our healthcare workers are on the front lines treating COVID-19 and risking their lives.

When our healthcare workers become ill, we all suffer and fighting this virus becomes more difficult. In order to protect workers and also to maximize capacity in hospitals, we need to get them the necessary personal protective equipment to ensure their own safety.”

Both KN95 respirators and surgical masks are needed. KN95 masks are used to protect the medical professionals. Surgical masks are used to protect the patients and also extend the life of the KN95 respirators.

To get these in the hands of healthcare workers, McGill Restoration partnered with a fellow Entrepreneur’s Organization member to secure manufacturing space with an organization in China to produce the masks. Additionally, McGill partnered with DSV Global Support and Logistics to air freight masks from Shanghai to Cleveland at cost. Once in Cleveland, McGill Restoration will transport masks to hospital systems and businesses across the U.S. To fund this global COVID-19 emergency relief effort, McGill Restoration donated $50,000 and started a GoFundMe campaign to promote and collect additional donations from other individuals and local businesses.

A total of $107,465 was raised which equated to 163,200 masks, and 118,400 of these masks will be delivered to hospitals in Nebraska.

McGill Restoration is an Omaha-based construction company that specializes in concrete repair and restoration. They provide services for large-scale projects such as parking garages, stadiums, historical buildings, industrial facilities, and other infrastructure construction work across the Midwest. Learn more online at mcgillrestoration.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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MAY 2020 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS Envision Success Hosts Online Co-Working and Happy Hours for Quarantine Productivity

TL Wilson Ups Production to Meet Increased Demand for Trucking Services

To try and combat the quarantine blues, Heather Legge with Envision Success Inc. organized and hosted weekly virtual co-working and happy hours to promote productivity and a sense of community all throughout April. Legge created a pop-up virtual business community to help those feeling less productive. All the events were free.

Truckers, like those with TL Wilson Freight Brokerage LLC, remain hard at work on the front lines of the pandemic, bringing medical supplies, food, and necessary resources to communities across the country every day. TL Wilson has increased production as much as possible in order to meet the needs of Nebraskan communities and others that are staying at home to slow the curve. Specifically, TL Wilson has been working closely with many state and federal government officials to transport funded supplies across the nation for distribution.

TL Wilson’s expertise is refrigerated hauls and flatbeds, but their experienced truckers are able to offer additional services for fragile and high-valued merchandise. They supply immediate updates and offer superior customer service. TL Wilson is known for their satisfied clients, good pay history and respect for all employees, and superior problem solving skills. Thinking out of the box is what they do best, so they can keep morale high as they solve each problem that arises.

TL Wilson Freight Brokerage, LLC works seven days a week, year round.

This includes major holidays. For more information about available services, go to tlwilsonfreightbrokerage.com or call (833) 238-0315.

Virtual co-working was split into four intentional categories that mimicked an office environment. Hosted on Zoom, the session started with a brief statement of goals among the group, 45 minutes of work with the camera on, audio off, and a clock countdown displayed, a five minute break, and then 30 minutes of work again. Heather Legge hosted and was happy to provide people with an activity to anchor their day.

Legge also hosted a virtual happy hour networking every Friday at 3 p.m. Zoomers were able to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs, owners, and leaders over “quarantinis.” The events were fun and casual to replace networking opportunities lost due to the pandemic.

Envision Success Inc. was founded in 2006 to help individuals and organizations experience greater successes in their short- and longterm business endeavors. Their coaches use a variety of methods, tools, and skills to create a customized plan for each client. To learn more, go to envisionsuccessinc.com. Follow Heather Legge on Facebook (@HeatherLegge.MotivatingMoxie) to see future events.

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Midlands Community Foundation Establishes Coronavirus Response Fund In an attempt to lessen the impact of the coronavirus in the community, the Midlands Community Foundation (MCF) has established a charitable fund named the Coronavirus Response Fund. The community can donate to the fund, and donations will be pooled to provide emergency food, supplies, utility, and other financial help for the hardest-hit households within Sarpy and Cass counties.

The Coronavirus Response Fund will partner with other nonprofit organizations, government, and business partners who are united to deploy resources to community-based organizations within Sarpy and Cass counties. The fund will provide flexible resources to organizations in the joint service area working with communities who are disproportionately impacted by coronavirus (COVID-19) and the economic consequences of this outbreak.

This fund will grant monies to organizations and programs that have strong experience working to provide residents with access to food, prescriptions/healthcare, and other childcare and basic needs. The fund is designed to complement the work of local public health, nonprofit, and government entities, and to expand local capacity to support individuals and families experiencing hardship because of the outbreak and related closures and disruptions.

Together, MCF will proactively identify potential grant recipients, solicit guidance on potential partnerships, and recommend final awards as quickly as possible. Funds will be released on a rolling basis as fundraising continues throughout the outbreak and recovery phases of the crisis, making it possible to move resources quickly and adapt to evolving needs in subsequent funding phases.

The mission of Midlands Community Foundation is to benefit the diverse needs of the Sarpy and Cass county communities by providing financial support, involvement, and service. To contribute, visit midlandscommunity. org and choose MCF Coronavirus Response Fund under DONATE NOW. To contribute by mail, send check payable to the MCF Coronavirus Response Fund, 217 North Jefferson St., Papillion, NE 68046. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

E-COMMERCE 101: YOUR E-COMMERCE & SHIPPING SOLUTIONS

BY ADD A SHOP AND POINT2SHIP

The technology giant Sandhills Global is bringing a timely solution to today’s small business owners through the unique e-commerce products and services offered by its companies: Add A Shop and Point2Ship. For the many business owners who have suddenly found themselves needing to convert their services to an online format and merge into the world of e-commerce, Add A Shop and Point2Ship offer answers and solutions that can help businesses integrate seamlessly into e-commerce. With easy-to-use resources and tools that solve the problems of creating an effective website, uploading inventory into an online store, collecting payment, organizing an efficient shipping system and accessing shipping materials, and so much more, Add A Shop and Point 2 Ship are a one-stop for anyone looking for solutions.

Add A Shop, like other Sandhills services, connects buyers and sellers worldwide. A clear, concise dashboard shows each customer order, when it was ordered, when it shipped, payment status, and more. Because Add A Shop services are all available online through cloud data, no software is needed, and all services can be accessed 24/7 on your computer or mobile device, whether you are at home or at the office. Add A Shop is different from other e-commerce services in that it builds an online store to fit with your existing website for free—no setup fee, contract, monthly fees, maintenance fees, or any other hidden charges.

Easily accessed through the Add A Shop dashboard, Point2Ship services take the guesswork out of organizing a shipping system when it is time to get your goods to your customers. Point2Ship offers a variety of options for packaging materials, and spurred by unique circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, curbside pickup has even been integrated into the Point2Ship system as an option for customers.

With a Sandhills account and an Add A Shop online store, you have free access to several other Sandhills marketplaces to put your items in front of many more potential buyers. Point2Ship services ensure you will always be able to get your products to your new customers, whether they find you online or in the local directory!

What is E-Commerce?

E-commerce is the new face of business in a changing climate. Unusual times have necessitated innovation and creativity with the way business is conducted. People expect to be able to access everything online anymore; with current social distancing restrictions, this expectation has become a need. E-commerce ensures a business is fully accessible online such that customers and clients are able to purchase products and services readily through a user-friendly interface.

How do Add A Shop and Point2Ship solve my E-Commerce problems?

Add A Shop and Point2Ship offer an easy—and free—solution that any business owner can access today. A business owner with little to no experience running an effective website and selling products and services online can have an effective website up and running in little time. Customers can easily purchase through the website and process payments, and products can be shipped easily with the help of Point2Ship. Add A Shop and Point2Ship take on the load of e-commerce so business owners can focus on what they do best and continue growing their businesses.

How do I accept payments through Add A Shop?

In addition to Point2Ship, Add A Shop is integrated with a variety of Sandhills services such as CurrencyPay that provide essential services. CurrencyPay is a payment processing system that allows you to process large- and small-ticket transactions with ease through multiple payment methods such as credit, debit, and ACH in addition to flexible financing at the point of sale for larger-ticket items.

How do I start today?

It’s simple! Visit us online at addashop.com to set up your free, first-rate website today and you will readily be able to access services to help you with payment, shipping, and more. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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MICHAEL

Michael Wohlgemuth

GRATTON WAREHOUSE Meet Michael Wohlgemuth, vice president of sales and operations.

Tell us a little about your business. - Gratton Warehouse is a third party logistics (3PL) company headquartered in Omaha. We store raw and finished goods to distribute around the world. Our 3PL warehouse has the capability of handling unit(s) that weigh up to five tons. We also offer fulfillment services and do packaging for large orders and orders as small as an individual piece internet order SKU’s, from 1 to 5,000, weighing from 1lb to 10,000lbs.

How did you get started in the business? - Before starting with the company, I actually partnered with Gratton Warehouse. When an opportunity came about, I joined the team in June of 2016. Something about this company grabbed me. I have been enjoying the time spent here, and I looking forward to many more years to come.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? When I was in college, I set a goal of being an operations manager by the age of 30. After my son was born, I really dug in on my career to grow and provide for my family. I was able to achieve that goal, which was something that was very important to me.

Tell us a little about your family. - My wife and I have been married for nine years. She currently works as a scheduler for the power district.

We have four beautiful children. Our eldest son is in middle school, our daughter is in elementary, and the youngest daughter and son are still a few years away from kindergarten. They are all full of energy...we never have a dull moment around the house!

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

- Having my first child. It changed my focus on where I was and where I needed to go.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Spending time with my family. I also enjoy running, golfing, and being outdoors, but the time I am able to spend with my wife and kids is ultimately my favorite.

Who inspires you? - My mom. She is the person who has taught me a lot about life and family, and she is always there for her kids.

What is your favorite quote?- “Be grateful with everything you have and you will be successful in everything you do.” – Conor McGregor If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Spirited.

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Too Much Fun” by Daryle Singletary.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - The Force! (I’m a Star Wars fan.)

Which talent would you most like to have? - My wife and kids are great at drawing, and I would love to be able to partake in that with them.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Firefighting is something that I felt I would be great at.

What is your favorite movie? - Top Gun. What is your favorite TV show? - Cobra Kai. It’s great to see the story continue from the Karate Kid movies!

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Romeo’s Mexican Food & Pizza.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Vincent “Bo” Jackson.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 339-0846; michaelw@grattonwarehouse.com; www. grattonwarehouse.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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VERN

Vern Kathol

SCANTRON TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

LEGACY is new toestate the Omaha Metrofirm founded RPM LegacyRPM is a Legacy full-service real brokerage Area. We specialize in residential to protect investments, minimize costs and maximize Jean and James Duffy, Owners property management and offer buying income. and selling real estate services. info@realpmlegacy.com | @RealPMLegacy Carmela K. Karni, Broker

Meet Vern Kathol, VP of hardware and managed print ser vices at Scantron Technology Solutions.

Tell us a little about your business. - Scantron • Manage single family homes and residences Corporation is a global technology and services driven company. Its 402.905.0459 | www.RealPMLegacy.com • with up to 10 units experts provide comprehensive assessment and technology solutions.

• Help rental owners maximize revenue, VETERAN Under the Scantron Technology Solutions brand, we provide managed • minimize expense, and avoid costly mistakes OWNED O P E R AT E D IT, managed print, hardware support, and project services to customers • Provide top notch customer&service of all sizes and verticals.

• Offer 24/7 maintenance support • Use cutting edge technology to market, How did you get started in the business? - I started as a field service • communicate, and maintain properties technician in Memphis, TN. Since moving back to Omaha, I’ve been blessed with a variety of leadership roles that have exposed me to many aspects of business which fostered a passion for growth and evolution.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Perpetual Rent a water softener or “Improve the quality of your life by letting us improve the re-invention. I’m a believer in the notion that businesses and people need reverse osmosis system for quality of your water. Our low-pressure sales experience to grow and change or whither.

YOU SAVE is why 9 out of 10 people who talk to us...work with us.” * Jeff White, Aqua Systems What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I’m proud of the work I’ve done expanding the IT services we provide for monthJean and James Duffy, Owners our customers and the role that I’ve played in growing an organization First 3 months @ $4.95/mo.

Carmela K. Karni, Broker that provides value to customers and team members. with installation cost of $149; after introductory period, rental is $23/mo.

402.905.0459 | www.RealPMLegacy.com Tell us a little about your family. - It’s big. My mom was the oldest of 13 siblings, my dad the youngest of 10, and I’m one of eight. My Shop and compare at ilovemywater.com iLoveMyWater.com daughter Michaela and her husband Kyle currently have two daughters.

My girlfriend Lisa and I enjoy movies and dining out.

TEMS WAT E R S OF N E R S · DRINKING SYS TE What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - I initially started down a broadcasting and journalism path but changed to a more technology-focused education—two fairly different industies!

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Two extremes…

2020AquaSystems_3_68x2_41.indd 1 3/19/20 10:58 AM either “whirling” (making a list and getting things done) or chilling at a pool or beach.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I am a singer/songwriter and enjoy playing acoustic shows whenever I can.

We are local. We are your neighbors.

Who inspires you? - Virtually, everyone. Everyone I meet has a story We live and work in your community. of achievement or overcoming odds which humbles me and keeps me driving to be a better person. This is particularly true of military personnel As a full service financial institution, we offer whose sacrifices inspire me to live a life of value and meaning while keeping my complaints in check. all the products and services you would expect What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever from a bank, but with a people-first mentality. received? - So many favorite quotes that I keep a running list on my phone. Elderly Private Ryan at the end of the movie: “Tell me I’ve lived Come to Centris for all your financial needs: a good life.” Quite a reminder! ¡ Totally Free Checking Accounts If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Positive. Not saying I always am, but I want to ¡ Auto and Personal Loans be a positive influence on others. ¡ Mortgages and Home Equity Loans What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work ¡ Visa Credit Cards life? - Writing songs and playing the guitar. ¡ Savings, Certificates and IRAs If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what ¡ Business/Commercial Loans would it be? - Probably a full-time musician but, after a few months on the road, I might pick something else.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield.

What is your favorite movie? - Shawshank Redemption.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - It’s a toss-up between M’s Federally insured by NCUA Pub and Marks.

(402) 334-7000 • (800) 334-2328 • centrisfcu.org If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? (402) 697-3308; vern.kathol@scantron.com; www.scantron.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart MAY 2020 Strictly Business 15

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Tracy Koeneke

ELEVEN TWENTY-THREE Meet Tracy Koeneke, media buyer for Eleven Twenty-Three.

Tell us a little about your business. - We are an advertising agency that prides ourselves on weaving together media and creative for effective campaigns.

How did you get started in the business? - I started my career in college selling newspaper space. I then became a media buying assistant at a marketing and communication firm in Omaha. I am, by nature, a very curious person. I constantly find myself researching and trying to understand as much as I can. Over the course of my career, I’ve bought almost anything you can think of—from TV, radio, print, digital, and social to elaborate out-of-home executions like skywriting. All of these opportunities have allowed me to work with a variety of clients on a global, national, regional, and local scale. I’m thankful for the chance I’ve had to hone in on my craft and work with powerhouse media networks as well as up and coming startups.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Navigating through all of the possible options available. When I started in media buying, there were only a handful of companies that had the capabilities to get in front of customers. In 2011, there were around 150 marketing technology outlets. As of 2019, there were over 7,000 marketing technology opportunities all vying for a chance to help brands succeed. In the early 2000s, it was relatively easy to navigate and keep up-to-date with trends. Now, trends change in a matter of hours, sometimes minutes.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? Being a part of a client’s success. This also includes invitations to beta test software and a number of new opportunities for clients that historically have been reserved for those with larger budgets. It’s always satisfying to be able to bring these solutions to clients.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband and I have a daughter who is in med school and four fur kids.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Spending time outside, which often includes going to the lake or on hikes with the dogs.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - Every test I’ve ever taken says I’m analytical, but I actually can draw more than just stick figures.

Who inspires you? - My dad instilled the never give up mentality I have.

What is your favorite quote? - “Don’t tell me sky’s the limit when there are footprints on the moon.” – Paul Brandt If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Knowledgeable.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Something environmental like repairing the ozone layer or being able to actually recycle and reuse all of the pollutants that are just being dumped.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Marine biology.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I’ve had the opportunity to work with the Make-A-Wish Foundation through marketing and volunteering efforts. It’s gratifying to see these dreams of kids come true. I’m also passionate about the work that dog rescues do because I love dogs and am always glad to be able to support organizations that care for their well-being.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - The Beanery.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? (402) 593-1123; tracy@11twentythree.com; www.11twentythree.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BRAD

Brad Lauritsen

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Meet Brad Lauritsen, associate principal and mechanical engineer at KPE Architecture – Engineering – Forensics.

Tell us a little about your business. - KPE started in 2000 as a small engineering firm specializing in energy-efficient design and modernization of primarily commercial, educational, and industrial facilities. Several years ago, we started adding architects to the mix and grew to become a full-service architectural/engineering firm. In 2007, KPE started doing forensic engineering for the insurance claims and legal industries. KPE’s forensic engineering experience is a significant and unique differentiator between KPE and other A/E firms. Each year, we’re hired to investigate hundreds of property loss claims at commercial buildings involving structural deficiencies, envelope defects, water or air infiltration, roof damage, frozen pipes, mold, HVAC failures, plumbing failures, indoor air quality, construction defects, design errors and omissions, and more. These investigations serve as a continuous stream of knowledge and lessons learned that give us an advantage during both the design and construction process. When I started, we had nine employees and now have 20. There is so much room for growth.

How did you get started in the business? - I have a unique background with three really distinct phases of my career. Right after college, I worked for Boeing Commercial Airplanes in Wichita, KS, as a structural analyst.

Then, I moved to San Antonio to work for a research company focused on force protection and counter/anti-terrorism research for the government and military. After three years there, I was laid off and moved back to Omaha. I found KPE interesting because they did forensic engineering, which I had always been interested in. I started there in 2008 and began to learn the field of consulting engineering and HVAC design.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Being laid off, switching career paths, and learning a new industry.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? When we were selected by OPS to design the addition and renovations to Burke High School. It was definitely a highlight. I worked on the proposal, led the interview team, and served as the design team project manager.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Bike ride on Wabash Trace Trail or fishing in my kayak.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - My biggest and most rewarding project in my career was developing an explosive breaching field manual for law enforcement and military. I attended the top three explosive breaching schools in the country. I am the only civilian to have gone through all three of the courses offered. For the project, I ran a test program where I built explosive charges and blew holes in walls and got to film it with high speed cameras. I was even in an episode of Master of Disaster on National Geographic which focused on our company’s blast research.

Who inspires you? - My girlfriend, Molly Connolly.

What is your favorite quote? - “Anything worth doing is worth doing right.” – Hunter S. Thompson What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I served as a co-chair of the Mentor Committee during initial chapter development of the ACE Mentor Program, and I have served as a mentor for all four years. The mission is to engage, excite, and enlighten high school students to pursue careers in architecture, engineering, and construction through mentoring and to support their continued advancement in the industry.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? (402) 291-1444; blauritsen@kpe-inc.com; www.kpe-inc.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Strictly Business MAY 2020

Meet Matt Urbanec, area district manager for Presto-X in Omaha and Sioux City, IA. Tell us a little about your business. - We are a full-service commercial and residential pest control company that started in Omaha in 1932. We protect people, food, and businesses by controlling and eliminating pests. Our local team has a combined 160+ years of experience serving the State of Nebraska and Iowa.

How did you get started in the business? - It was by accident. The industry joke is that no one plans on getting into pest control. A friend referred me to Presto-X and it has been a rewarding 18+ years with the company.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - I would say, currently, the COVID-19 pandemic—trying even harder to take care of our customers and at the same time take care of our employees’ health and well-being. We are considered essential contractors, allowing us to still service our customers, and we have been able to keep our staff working without any layoffs or furloughs in our district.

Tell us a little about your family. - My wife Sally and I have been married for 18 years. She is a registered nurse by trade and now works at Nebraska Total Care. We have two children: Elayna (14) and Rowan (9). As a family, we spend most of our days enjoying competitive sports—at least we did before the COVID-19 pandemic.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Golf or anything to do with sports—whether it is watching, playing with my kids, teaching/ coaching, or going to our favorite events.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - Unlimited energy so I could keep up with everything from work to my kids’ activities.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I was accepted into chiropractic school after I received my Bachelors of Science Degree from Briar Cliff University and deferred it to work for a while, but I never ended up going back to it. I sometimes wish I had pushed through it.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Control the controllable. Life and work are difficult enough, so control what you can control and do not focus as much on what you cannot control. You have the choice to be positive each day or you can allow things in your day to bring you down, but it is your choice and up to you.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Bennington Youth Sports Association. I help coach football, basketball, and baseball, and I participate on the Bennington youth football board.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I read many Jon Gordon books. I like his positivity and management style. I enjoyed his book, The Energy Bus and The Power of Positive Leadership, but they are all good.

What is your favorite TV show? - The Goldbergs. It reminds me of my childhood with all the things we did before all the technology and the rat race of life.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - I do not consider myself a Cubs fan but I met Ernie Banks once at the BMW Championship in Chicago in the 18th Green club tent. Then he pulled me aside and he spoke with my group and me for about an hour. It was a very surreal moment and he just spoke to us as if we had known each other for years. We got to talk a little baseball too which was real cool for me.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? (402) 551-0524; mattu@prestox.com; prestox.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

MICHAEL

Michael Draper

CFO SYSTEMS LLC Meet Michael Draper, director at CFO Systems LLC. Tell us a little about your business. - CFO Systems is a firm of experienced, executive leaders in accounting, finance, human resources, and operations. We serve our small and middle market clients part-time, interim, fractional, or time-share executives, depending on the specific needs of the client. We bring expertise and experience to help our clients grow!

How did you get started in the business? - About a year ago, I was going through a career transition and had to evaluate what I really wanted to do. Did I want to work for one company, or did I want to work for a variety of clients as a director for CFO Systems?

Working for a variety of clients who are truly appreciative of the value I bring to their business has been refreshing and invigorating.

Tell us a little about your family. - My wife Sandy and I have been married for almost 28 years. We have three wonderful children—Abby is an occupational therapist, Ryan is a mechanical engineer, and Matthew just completed his freshman year in college.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Accepting a job to work for Touche Ross (now Deloitte) in Omaha. My nearly nine years in public accounting provided me a wealth of experience and preparation that allowed my career to grow into executive leadership roles.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I am a big sports fan so if there is a big game to see (preferably in person) that is likely what I will be doing. I also enjoy golf and traveling with my wife and children.

Who inspires you? - My children. The dedication and responsibility that they show in their education and in serving others inspires me to be a better person for them and for others.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - I have two quotes I really like and, as a life-long Los Angeles Dodgers fan, they both are from Tommy Lasorda. The first is, “The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a person’s determination.” The second, which is applicable to life just as much as baseball, is, “There are three types of baseball players: those who make it happen, those who watch it happen, and those who wonder what happened.”

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I have been involved with Essential Pregnancy Services (EPS) for many years. I am currently on the board and serve as treasurer. EPS is an incredible organization that provides free, life-affirming options to women facing unplanned pregnancies. These free services are provided in a safe and understanding environment in support of the whole woman and parenting families.

What is your favorite movie? - Being a baseball fan, my favorite movies are baseball themed—whether they be more serious movies like 42 and Moneyball or comedies like Major League and Bull Durham.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - I love the Kolache Factory for breakfast/brunch or a sweet treat. Sandy and I also really enjoy Twisted Cork Bistro for a date night dinner.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Saint Pope John Paul II. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?

- (402) 598-7150; mdraper@cfosystemsllc.com; cfosystemsllc.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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MAY 2020 Strictly Business

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

11 Steps Your Business Needs to Prepare for the Coronavirus Economic Panic It ‘s time to get ready for the economic shift that’s begun as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak. While it’s completely understandable to be worried, your best bet is to channel any anxious energy and get prepared NOW. It is important during these early stages of the pandemic to be prepared, not panicked. Turn panic into a plan!

The steps below are provided by ActionCOACH’s founder, Brad Sugars.

Step 1: Communicate - Worry leads to negativity.

Good, bad, or ugly, you need to communicate with your team daily to update them on what is going on and the changes you are making. You should also communicate your precautions with your current and potential customers. E-newsletters, social media, and press releases are great tools to get this message out.

Step 2: Be Positive - In every massive change, there is opportunity. Instead of feeling paralyzed in panic and worry, look for small wins and ways to take advantage of the situation at hand so you will see better results in these trying times.

More than a business consultant, ActionCOACH will help you set clear goals, design a plan to achieve them, and hold yourself accountable to work the plan. Jim Barger started ActionCOACH in Omaha over 10 years ago. He offers aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners personalized one-on-one mentorship to help them succeed and ensure everyone in the organization reaches their full potential.

Step 3: Know the Cycles - The economy moves in a cycle, which stays consistent within a 7 to 10-year span. The U.S. has had a strong economic boom (the summer season) that has gotten us past the 10-year mark from the market crash of ‘08.

However, at the end of every summer comes the fall. Will this fall/winter last long? It depends on the virus. We can expect for the “winter” season of low economic growth to be shorter than in 2008, as our economy should spring back quickly once the virus has peaked and the spread begins to decrease.

Step 4: Change - Don’t wait to implement change in your business until it is impacting you. Now is the time to get ahead of the potential crisis to minimize the damage on your business.

What changes do you need to make in your products, services, prices, delivery, and staffing?

Step 5: Cut Back - If the crisis is as big as we predict it will be economically, it is advised to stop spending on unnecessary items. That does not mean to stop spending on marketing, sales, and expenses that will help your business grow. Hold off on making upgrades that you can live without in the next 30-90 days and reevaluate at that time. Consider the top 10 industries that are booming right now because of the virus. How can your business assist the Costcos and the Amazons of the world?

Step 6: Extend Credit - Banks are still lending right now, so extend your credit lines and open more credit cards while you still can. You’ll want to have that extra credit so you’ll have the ability to spend more during the recession.

• Consider refinancing if you have to. Renegotiating your rates to get the lowest rate as possible can help minimize your expenses.

Step 7: Staffing Cuts/Changes - Layoffs may need to happen in order for your business to survive. Before making staffing cuts, consider encouraging your staff to take their vacations and accrued paid time off now during the downtime.

Can cutting back on hours for your staff keep them employed?

Pay cuts are also an option. Suspend your bonus programs to tighten your belt through this phase.

Step 8: Plan to Work from Home - Will your technology needs be met? How will you communicate with your team and your customers when you are out of the office or not available in person? Make a plan for how to conduct meetings and how to share reporting for less disruption on day-to-day tasks.

Step 9: Online Deliveries - As your customers are encouraged to stay home and distance themselves socially, you still need to be able to serve them, but through a different platform. Do you have the online technology to make this possible? If people aren’t coming to you, how can you reach them?

Step 10: Marketing and Sell - In times of economic crisis, marketing is the last cost you should cut. However, your marketing is going to have to change. Your customers are panicked, worried, and thinking about consumer products and services in different ways. How can you best meet their current needs? Can you create special rates or offers to motivate customers to keep spending money with you considering the current market?

Step 11: Repeat Business - Keeping your existing customer base is the most vital thing you can do right now. Be in communication with them, offering them special deals to get them back “in the door.” Make sure they feel like they are important and valued.

ActionCOACH Success Center – 10828 Old Mill Rd., Suite 4 | (402) 676-8809 jimbarger@actioncoach.com | jimbarger.actioncoach.com 20

Strictly Business MAY 2020

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BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Philanthropy Organizations, small and large, with an others-focused philosophy of giving make a significant impact on Greater Omaha’s health and well-being. Recognition goes to those who go above and beyond to improve individual lives and the broader life and vitality of our community.

Farm Credit Services of America

Monica Sempek Photography, LLC

At Farm Credit Services of America, they approach community stewardship by staying true to their “We Are Servants” statement.

“I am a firm believer that every business should give back to the community by sharing not only their talents but their time.” – Monica Sempek, Monica Sempek Photography, LLC

“Our employees go above and beyond to foster an environment of community improvement and support,” says Teresa Mardesen of Farm Credit Services of America (FCSAmerica).

FCSAmerica’s outreach efforts touch everything from ag education and disaster relief to hunger and nutrition, as well as grants and scholarships.

Every FCSAmerica employee is given 16 hours annually of paid volunteer time, which they can use individually or grouped with other employees.

In 2019, FCSAmerica worked with the University of Nebraska Medical Center, First National Bank and Bank of the West to form an Omaha-wide Corporate Social Responsibility Collaboration to share ideas, network and otherwise work together to increase Omaha companies' collective community impact. As of February 2020, 61 Omaha companies, including the Fortune 500s, were represented.

Monica Sempek says giving back to the community is what her business – Monica Sempek Photography – is based upon. She uses her lens to tell the stories of those without a voice and bring awareness to the needs of the nonprofit community. Sempek has captured many “car blessings” for Chariots4Hope and donated time and images to Healing Embrace, Transformation Omaha, Grief's Journey and more.

A member of the Transformation Omaha and Metro Omaha Business Center Boards, Sempek also devotes time to mentoring and encouraging new small business owners, connecting them to resources and local networking groups.

Sempek opened her own business in 2016 and expanded to a larger location three years later.

100 YEAR CELEBRATION

SAVE THE DATE

100 YEAR CELEBRATION

SAVE THE DATE

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2020

Thursday, October 8, 2020

11:30 a.m.

CHI Health Center Omaha PAID Featured Speaker Michael Oher 4343 N. 52nd Street Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage

The Omaha Home for Boys Permit 90

Omaha, NE 68104

Tickets: OHB.org, giving@OHB.org or 402.457.7014

Please join us to celebrate this milestone anniversary and support the youth, young adults and families served by OHB.

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MAY 2020 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Innovation Creating something better is no easy process, but it’s what true innovators live for, thinking beyond “the now” and “the norm” to improve their customers’ lives. Those recognized for Excellence in Innovation embed this ongoing quest for improvement into their cultures and push their bounds, every day, to elevate our community.

Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha, Inc.

Do Space

Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) in Omaha, Inc. is committed to continuous innovative planning for the future, always seeking to improve in the area of supportive care. Nowhere is this more evident than in RMHC’s construction of a large onsite treatment/infusion center – an innovation that will reduce the need for travel, as well as emotional anxiety and physical distress, for many of the patients staying at the House.

“As the first community technology library in the United States, Do Space is influencing the shape of technology education on a local and national scale.”

– Anna Gadzinski, Do Space.

“This innovation is totally unique, having never been attempted before. No other RMHC in the world has this type of facility,” says RMHC’s Laurie Cope.

Throughout 2019, the percentage of pediatric patients staying at the House who were candidates for infusion therapies remained steady at 42%.

RMHC’s novel approach also extends to caring for those who care for others. The nonprofit has implemented an innovative slate of full-time employee benefits, including unlimited paid vacation, the Infant at Work program and Flex Fridays.

Known for ,

Do Space is a one-of-a-kind community technology space, digital workshop, and innovation playground. It was designed to tackle the digital divide in Omaha, boost digital skills and drive innovation, creativity and invention in our region.

Last year, Do Space hit a number of major milestones, surpassing 700,000 visits to the building, 75,000 members and 25,000 volunteer hours worked. Since opening in 2015, it has hosted more than 3,000 free technology-focused educational programs and events for members.

Dedicated to ensuring that technology is available to everyone, Do Space is more than just a building—it’s a transformative community technology movement.

North End Teleservices Innovation at North End Teleservices (NET) starts with location. While most call centers in Omaha are located in suburban areas, NET took the bold step of locating in the highest unemployment area, bringing jobs to the north Omaha community and allowing people to work where they live.

According to a University of Nebraska at Omaha economic impact study, NET provides over $25 million of economic impact to the local community – a figure expected to more than double in the next year.

Caring

“NET is innovating in business by answering unmet needs of our people and our customers, creating new services like student transportation contact centers for multiple school districts across the county,” says NET’s Doug Hibbeler.

Recognized for Innovation We’re proud to receive the Business Excellence Award in Innovation for 2020 from the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce.

Innovation at NET also looks like its employee-focused free ride to and from work program, which is run through its transportation services department.

Hillcrest Health Services National recognition is a by-product of the innovation mindset at Hillcrest Health Services.

The Cottages at Hillcrest Country Estates, named among U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Nursing Homes,” are the first and only freestanding nursing households in Omaha and a national model for culture change in long-term care facilities. Hillcrest has also received national recognition for its innovative work in Montessori-focused dementia care.

“Hillcrest is one of the first to integrate the Montessori philosophy into the daily lives of memory support residents. The concept has been adapted to engage individuals with dementia by stimulating the mind with activities and outings that use fine motor and cognitive skills, and build self-esteem,” says Jim Janicki of Hillcrest Health Services.

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In addition, Hillcrest, which recently earned innovation and quality awards from McKnight’s Senior Living Magazine, has the only geriatric occupational therapy residency program in the country in partnership with Creighton University.

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Excellence in Two Categories winners exemplify excellence – the result of operating with a holistic, high-bar mentality. Three companies are being honored this year for Excellence in both Leadership and Philanthropy.

Verdis Group

Bland & Associates, P.C.

Environmental consulting firm Verdis Group was started in 2009 out of a desire to be good stewards of the community and the planet.

At Bland & Associates, P.C., employees are encouraged to leverage their unique talents every day.

“We know our people are the most critical ingredient to our success, which means we, as leaders, are extremely focused on hiring top talent and then doing everything we can to support their growth and development,” says Verdis Group’s Craig Moody.

The entire Verdis team is engaged in helping to shape the future of the company, and everyone takes ownership of achieving that vision. Moody says employees – empowered by a culture of authenticity, flexibility, and professional development support – are also encouraged to get involved in the community in diverse ways. That includes leading community conversations around sustainability issues, serving on the community boards and participating in community groups. In 2019, Verdis started Strive for Zero, volunteering time and expertise to help nonprofits improve their waste management systems.

“We believe this mentality allows all employees to act as leaders,” says Bland’s Diana Busche.

All of Bland’s employees take a personality assessment, which helps the firm harness its team’s natural attributes, create an environment where individuality can thrive, and establish a cycle of leadership. The firm further cultivates leaders by sponsoring BLING, an internal leadership institute.

In addition to elevating its employees, Bland uplifts the community with its unique approach to philanthropy. In 2014, the firm created its own employee-run 501c(3) nonprofit, the Bland Cares Foundation. Backed by firm and employee contributions, the foundation supports numerous nonprofits through monetary and in-kind giving.

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Excellence in Two Categories

Omaha Public Power District “The goal of OPPD leadership is to continually build the capability of our employees to lead the way we power the future.” – Jamie Wagner, OPPD Serving almost 850,000 people in 13 counties, publicly-owned OPPD develops its workforce by stimulating a continuous improvement mindset and serving as a champion for change efforts.

The utility says it excels in delivery by clearly communicating expectations, promoting a bias for action with a clear focus on safety, and by holding its team accountable. In addition, employee advancement is encouraged through programs such as OPPD’s Accelerated Leadership Development Program and EmPOWERedU. One of OPPD’s guiding principles – to be a trusted energy partner – extends to giving back in the communities it calls home. The utility flexes its philanthropic efforts in three primary community outreach lanes: education, basic needs, and community and environmental betterment.

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MAY 2020 Strictly Business

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AWARD WINNERS

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS

WoodmanLife

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc

Leadership

Bland & Associates, P.C.

OneWorld Community Health Centers, Inc

2019 Small Business of the Year Excellence in Two Categories Bozell

Omaha Public Power District

Verdis Group Do Space

Philanthropy

Hillcrest Health Services Monica Sempek Photography, LLC

Farm Credit Service of America

Sustained Excellence

ACCESSbank

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Project Harmony Child Advocay Center

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Innovation

FNBO

Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha, Inc.

North End Teleservices #PrintProudDigitalSmart

25 Years • 100 Black Men of Omaha, Inc. • Adams & Sullivan P.C., L.L.O. • Charter Hill Partners LLC • Elite Cheer Inc. • FASTSIGNS – M ST

Milestones matter, and anniversaries of 25, 50, 75, 100, 125 or 150 years in business mark the dedication of organizational stakeholders, as well as the commitment of customers to the business or nonprofit.

• First National Technology Solutions • First Nebraska Trust Company • Heartland Wood Floors Co.

75 Years

• Kinder Care

• BerganKDV

• Mueller Robak LLC

• Eakes Office Solutions

• Nebraska Beef, Ltd.

• Nebraska Christian College

• Omaha Prime • P & L Capital Corp.

• National Electrical Contractors Association, Nebraska Chapter

• Paul J. Strawhecker, Inc.

• Saint Francis Ministries

• Performance Group, Inc.

• SilverStone Group

• Power Delivery Services, Inc.

• Tritz Plumbing, Inc.

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Milestones

• Project Houseworks • QAT Global • Quality Brands of Omaha

100 Years

• Realcorp

• 3E | Electrical Engineering & Equipment Co.

• Robert’s Nursery, Landscapes & Lawns

• Completely KIDS

• States Resources Corp.

• Endicott Clay Products Company

• Sun Valley Landscaping

• Greater Omaha Packing Co., Inc.

• Sympateco, Inc.

• Omaha Home for Boys

• TG’s Complete Cleaning Service

• Robert W. Baird & Co.

• The Wells Resource LLC

50 Years • Bailey Lauerman • Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Insurance Company • House of Mufflers & Brakes Total Car Care • Omaha Car Care

125 Years • Aksarben Foundation • Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium • RENZE

• OneWorld Community Health Centers, Inc. • Phil Patterson, Inc. • Pink Grading, Inc.

150 Years

• Robert Hancock & Co.

• Borsheims Fine Jewelry & Gifts

• Shared Service Systems, Inc.

• City of Papillion

• Travel Faire, Inc.

• Millard Public Schools

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MAY 2020 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Leadership Excellence in Leadership recognizes those organizations with a strong vision for the future; a devotion to collaboration, inclusivity and forward-thinking; and a dedication to elevating their employees and the communities they call home.

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.

OneWorld Community Health Centers, Inc. The leadership philosophy of OneWorld Community Health Centers calls on leaders and employees to build a culture of respect, kindness, learning and accountability.

“OneWorld's leaders create opportunities for all voices to be heard and valued in an environment of trust,” says Kathy Broniecki, CEO of Envoy, Inc., who nominated OneWorld for the Excellence in Leadership Award.

OneWorld's leaders encourage diverse perspectives and support their employees with training, coaching and mentoring, inspiring curiosity, creativity and innovation. They continually seek new challenges, communicate openly and hold themselves and their employees accountable.

To implement change, OneWorld's leaders create a vision for achieving and exceeding expectations and share that vision with employees to build a strong network of support.

2020 marks the 50th anniversary of OneWorld, which began as the Indian-Chicano Health Center in 1970.

S SINE S EXC E BU

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McCarthy Building Companies’ Omaha employees do their part to grow and lead the next generation of construction professionals by stepping off the job site and into the classroom.

Employees and company leaders participate in Metropolitan Community College’s Construction Advisory Committee to ensure highly relevant curriculum and program offerings. They also partner with Omaha’s ACE Mentoring Program to plan the college’s annual Construction Trades Day, an event that introduces hundreds of area high school students to Metro’s resources and construction career opportunities.

“Our collective success depends on our ability to attract a skilled construction workforce who will build the next generation of hospitals, schools, research facilities, hotels, office buildings, and infrastructure that will shape the future of Nebraska and every region,” says Amy Thompson of McCarthy Building Companies, a strong partner in the Greater Omaha Chamber’s REACH program.

WoodmenLife “WoodmenLife is committed to working with team members to make them better leaders.”

– Kerry Heinrich, WoodmenLife.

WoodmenLife has a mindset of developing leaders and providing them with opportunities to grow. That includes offering training, providing resources for continued learning, and creating opportunities to advance within the company.

In 2019, 50% of home office leadership positions were filled internally.

Throughout the company's history, the president and CEO, including current CEO Patrick Dees, has risen up through the organization.

WoodmenLife’s Transformational Leadership Program underscores its commitment to leadership development, producing stronger leaders with more engaged and productive teams.

Extending its leadership philosophy to the community, the organization also encourages associates to serve as leaders for area organizations.

In Greater Omaha, 47 associates serve on boards for 57 organizations.

100 Years of Serving Kids and Families in Our Community

Culturally Respectful, Quality Affordable Health Care 4920 S. 30th St., Omaha, NE 68107 (402) 734 - 4110 I oneworldomaha.org

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2566 St. Mary’s Ave. Omaha, NE 68105 completelykids.org • 402-397-5809

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BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS

2019 Small Business of the Year Bozell “When it comes to culture, we believe you can’t force it. We hire people who are inspired and who inspire and motivate others. And, we allow them to bring their fun ideas to life. The rest takes care of itself.”

Having been in the business for nearly a century, Bozell has seen it all. From humble beginnings in Omaha to a worldwide powerhouse and back, the company’s legacy has come full circle.

Bozell has a long history of giving back. One of the firm’s founders, Morris Jacobs, strongly believed in “paying rent for the space we occupy on this earth” by giving back in time and talents.

Every year, Bozell donates a significant portion of labor hours to nonprofit work. Their staff are encouraged to get involved with local organizations—nearly 30% of their staff serves on local nonprofit boards. In fact, the company was awarded a Corporate Citizenship Award from the Greater Omaha Chamber for their philanthropy efforts and were recently named Small Business of the Month.

Bozell’s vision is to “empower those who aspire to change the world.” The founders set this vision nearly a century ago, and it’s what continues to motivate the company’s leadership and staff.

COMPASSIONATELY COMMITTED TO OUR COMMUNITY.

Member FDIC

Fearlessly focused on you.

We are honored to be awarded the 2020 Sustained Excellence Award for our commitment in helping our customers and communities stand strong.

See what makes banking with FNBO different.

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MAY 2020 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Sustained Excellence The Sustained Excellence Award offers another level of distinction for those organizations that prove, time and again, that excellence is standard operating procedure. Our winners have received Business Excellence Awards in any category (innovation, leadership and/or philanthropy) for two or more consecutive years.

Project Harmony Child Advocacy Center

ACCESSbank

Back-to-back Excellence in Innovation Award winner, Project Harmony Child Advocacy Center serves its mission by forging partnerships and coordinating care to help the victims of child abuse go from crisis to courage. In 2019, Project Harmony assisted more than 5,700 children from the Omaha metro and southwest Iowa through early intervention and response services.

“We believe there are no

“As we look ahead, it’s clear there will be continued growth and expansion. Not only will Project Harmony's reach increase, but so will the number of children who are able to use their voice without fear so healing can begin,” says Project Harmony’s Angela Roeber.

One of the largest child advocacy centers in the country, Project Harmony has expanded advocacy and mental health services to children and families impacted by abuse and neglect. It also offers on-site caregiver support groups, provides accompaniment to court, and makes connections to community resources and informal support networks.

Together, we can

END CHILD ABUSE

shortcuts to quality and encourage employees to be thorough, timely and accurate in everything they do.” – Stephanie Sullivan, ACCESSbank Recognized for Excellence in Leadership (2018) and Excellence in Philanthropy (2017), ACCESSbank has made that attribute – excellence – a pillar of its “ACCESSway standards.”

The tenth largest bank in the Omaha market, ACCESSbank prioritizes community stewardship and believes in developing leaders not “managers.” For the past three years, it has committed over $200,000 in learning and development opportunities for its employees and leadership team.

CEO Pat Corrigan founded the bank at the start of the recession in 2007. Despite its rapid growth since then, ACCESSbank has stayed true to its original mission: “Community banking with a personalized, high-touch experience.”

FNBO First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) – awarded for Excellence in Philanthropy the last two years – understands that banks are intertwined in people’s lives and play an integral role in a community’s success.

“That’s why we constantly strive to be a force for good by doing the right thing for those who matter most – our customers, employees and our communities,” says FNBO’s Alec Gorynski.

In response to last spring’s devastating flooding, FNBO and the Nebraska Community Foundation established the Rebuild the Heartland Community Fund. FNBO contributed $100,000 and matched an additional $150,000 in donations from individuals, families and corporations. So far, more than $837,000 has been raised in total – all of which is being deployed in flood-affected areas.

Earlier this year, FNBO was named to Forbes annual “Best Banks in America” for the 8th time since 2012.

OMAHA’S PREMIERE EVENT PHOTOGRAPHER

BE SOMEONE

projectharmony.com 402.595.1326 28

Strictly Business MAY 2020

Corporate & Private Events Non-Profit Events Commercial/Branding Head Shots/Seniors

402-203-7908 | www.monicasempekphotography.com #PrintProudDigitalSmart

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

ON THE FRONT LINES OF A CRISIS

Weathering the Storm While many are fixated on the coronavirus pandemic, there is another threat on our doorsteps: inclement weather. Some of you may be having flashbacks or notifications from Snapchat and Facebook of the major flooding from a year ago. Since spring brings the highest risk of inclement weather to the Midwest, it’s important for us to be prepared in the event of flooding and ensuing water damage.

BELFOR offers immediate help to secure your property and prevent further damage from occurring. Storm damage services can include the following: • • • • •

Emergency Board-Up Service Perimeter Fencing Building Shrink Wrap Emergency Security Personnel Demolition and Reconstruction Services

The spring flood outlook report by the National Weather Service reported that Nebraska has a high risk of flooding due to waterlogged soil and rivers that remain high. The areas affected by last year’s flood, especially those along the Platte, Elkhorn, and Missouri rivers, remain at the most risk. BELFOR Property Restoration of Omaha is available 24/7 to the Omaha metropolitan area to deal with any crisis at any time. They provide emergency services like smoke and soot removal, water extraction, structural dehumidification, mold remediation, electronics/ machinery/equipment restoration, environmental services, and more to assist you in any situation. Whether it’s a flood, tornado, electrical fire, or another propertydamaging crisis, BELFOR works with most insurance companies to give you a seamless and fast recovery.

BEFLOR Property Restoration of Omaha allows people to overcome unexpected obstacles. Their committed employees work tirelessly to assist in all restoration efforts. From controlling a pandemic to repairing your home post-flood, BELFOR is always ready to provide residential and commercial restoration services.

In unprecedented times, peace of mind can be hard to find. In these trying times, damage control professionals can bring you assurance that your facility is COVID-19 free. BELFOR Property Restoration of Omaha has been on the front line of the crisis, responding to the global pandemic quickly and efficiently in our community. They are working hard to support essential workers, from healthcare professionals to grocery store cashiers, so that they can go on to safely provide their services to those in need. Utilizing professional cleaning services help reduce the risk of infection, cross-contamination, and operation down-time. An industry leader in disaster mitigation and recovery, BELFOR has a plethora of experience in dealing with biohazardous contaminants. They have over 25 years in their pocket of cleaning buildings contaminated by fire, water, storms, mold, and more.

BELFOR has been strictly following CDC guidelines to provide disinfection services to healthcare facilities, schools, manufacturing plants, office spaces, and other areas that are most likely contaminated with COVID-19.

BELFOR Omaha has the experience, skilled manpower, and equipment to handle any building, big or small.

They utilize wiping methods or small, portable sprayers loaded with a hospital-grade solution that kills 99.9% of pathogens. This eliminates bacteria, fungi, and viruses to ensure that your building/facility is ready to re-open when the time comes. BELFOR’s cleaner also leaves no harmful residue, so it’s safe to use around children and pets as well. Their standard cleaning methods include disinfection of heating ventilation and air conditioning equipment and fogging to kill any virus or bacteria that is airborne.

From setting up a drive-through COIVD-19 testing site in less than 48 hours to disinfecting a contaminated cruise ship, BELFOR has been working on a national level to assist in slowing the curve of the pandemic.

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MAY 2020 Strictly Business

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Building Local Partnerships

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

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

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Allen Chaffee, Omaha Market President Tyler Albers, VP/Relationship Manager Zach Baedke, Senior Banker 402-671-0200 | CornhuskerBank.com

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PERSONNEL NEWS Milton Trabal Announced as New Administrator at Metro OB GYN Metro OB GYN recently welcomed Milton Trabal as the new administrator for its Obstetrics/Gynecology and Women’s Health practice. Milton brings with him almost 15 years of healthcare experience.

In his previous roles, Milton worked in healthcare financial management rising to the role of c hief financial officer with responsibilities that extended into operations, in addition to finance. Milton will be managing three clinic locations: one in Council Bluffs, IA, at the Mercy Hospital campus and two in Omaha at the Bergan Mercy Medical Center campus and in South Omaha.

Metro OB GYN is an independent specialty practice focusing on obstetrics, gynecology, and women’s health. You can learn more online at www.MetroOB.com or by calling (712) 329-5700.

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Toastmasters District 24 Elects New Leaders Each Spring Toastmasters Districts around the world hold their annual council meetings to elect District leaders for the upcoming Toastmasters year (July 1–June 30). Normally held in person, this year’s elections were conducted differently but no less successfully. Using website platforms “Free Toast Host,” YouTube, and Zoom, District 24 posted candidate statements, conducted online candidate interviews, and held an online meeting at which candidates gave their final statements prior to digital ballots being cast.

Mark Fegan Results were tallied automatically, and winners were announced within minutes of the votes being cast. The elected leadership team for District 24 include: Mark Fegan, district director; Cindy Jenkins, program quality director; Keith Jones, club growth director; and Sandy Yager, Pam Hogan, Claire Titus, and Daniel Lyle, division directors.

The district director oversees operations of Toastmasters and supports clubs, members, and other leaders across the entire district.

The program quality director manages the leadership and educational program, Cindy Jenkins including speech contests. In addition, she will help members identify and achieve their goals. The club growth director and his team will work to build clubs by working with corporations looking to enhance their training programs and individuals within communities wanting to improve their communication and leadership skills. Division directors provide support to a subset of clubs and other leaders within the district.

Toastmasters International is a worldwide nonprofit educational organization that Keith Jones empowers individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. Omaha, Lincoln, and surrounding areas are served by Toastmasters District 24, grouping 70 Toastmasters clubs and 1,100 members from Kearney, NE, to Council Bluffs, IA. Learn more by visiting d24tm.org or go to the Facebook page (@D24TM). #PrintProudDigitalSmart

McGill Law Welcomes Jessica Brown and Theresa Loughran McGill Law, P.C., L.L.O. welcomed two ambitious women to the team earlier this year: Jessica Brown and Theresa Loughran.

Jessica started in February as the administrative assistant. She brings a diverse background to McGill Law. As a cosmetologist, she owned a successful local salon and then switched gears to satisfy her passion of working with children in the nonprofit sector. Jessica is undeniably friendly, organized, adaptable, and passionate about the firm’s mission of Jessica Brown guiding families through the divorce process.

Theresa started in March at the firm as an associate attorney. Being the youngest of seven, Theresa learned at an early age the vast benefits and advantages of using a team-based approach to find a peaceful resolution. The Omaha native graduated with honors from UNL and received her law degree from Creighton University School of Law. After law school, Theresa honed her research and writing skills as a judicial clerk. After her clerkship, Theresa’s love to assist families was stoked while she practiced juvenile law and Theresa Loughran family law.

McGill Law, P.C., L.L.O. is a Female Focused Firm specializing in helping women through family law issues. With McGill Law, you will have a compassionate, caring, experienced attorney taking you through the legal process with the goal of achieving a peaceful result for you and your family. Learn more about McGill Law online at www.mcgilllawomaha. com or call (402) 548-5418.

MAY 2020 Strictly Business 31

PERSONNEL NEWS YMCA of Greater Omaha’s Chris Tointon Appointed to YUSA Board of Directors

Millard Business Association Recognizes Two Members

Chris Tointon, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Omaha, has recently been appointed to the YMCA of the USA (YUSA) National Board of Directors, one of only three internal Y CEO’s on a 27-member board consisting of top industry professionals from various organizations across the country.

Tointon will collaboratively direct, plan, and set strategic direction and policies to help guide the YMCA’s efforts in advancing healthy living, youth development, and social responsibility in YMCA communities across the country.

Tointon also currently serves as president of the Prairie Alliances of YMCA’s, consisting of 23 Y associations across North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska, and is currently a member of the YUSA Strategic Innovation Advisory Council. In addition, Tointon has also been recently appointed to the Board of Advisors for Community Rec magazine, an industry publication and business resource for the YMCA, Jewish Community Center, and community recreation professionals across the country. With active involvement in such nationally recognized recreation industry boards, Tointon will further elevate Omaha’s already-established reputation as a major contributor within the YUSA organization.

YMCA of Greater Omaha is a 501(C)(3) that is governed by a volunteer board of directors with a geographic scope that covers four counties in a two-state area: Douglas and Sarpy counties in Nebraska; and Mills and Pottawattamie counties in Iowa, with 10 total metro Omaha area locations. For more information on the YMCA and programs and events, contact John Monson at (402) 977-4312 or visit www.metroymca.org.

The Millard Business Association (MBA) was pleased to recognize two outstanding members in the first quarter of the 2020: Dana Anderson and Deanna Albertson!

In January, Dana Anderson, owner of Toj Boutique was the MBA Member Spotlight.

Dana was nominated for her dedication and enthusiasm for jumping in and getting involved right away with the MBA and MBYP. February’s MBA Member Spotlight was Deanna Albertson with Vino Mas. Deanna is a very active member of the MBA and the Accelerator Referral Group. Not only is she exceedingly generous in her donations of time and wine for many events, she actively promotes and supports MBA members to her customers and other contacts.

Dana Anderson

If you’re a business owner who wants to get more involved with like-minded individuals and the community at large, the Millard Business Association is an awesome outlet.

As a member, you’ll find yourself in the perfect environment to share and connect Deanna Albertson with other professionals in a way that adds value, creates opportunities, and is fun for all. Learn more online at millardbusinessassociation.org or connect on Facebook (@MillardBusinessAssociation).

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PERSONNEL NEWS Berry Law Welcomes Patrick Smith Berry Law recently welcomed Patrick Smith to their team. Patrick is a veteran’s advocate at the firm, helping veterans in their fight for disability benefits. As a veteran who served as a Fleet Marine Force Corpsman in the Navy, Patrick understands the struggle fellow veterans have with the VA. He can represent veterans at every stage of the VA appeals process, including appeals at the Regional Office, the Board of Veterans Appeals, and the Court of Appeals for Veterans’ Claims.

Berry Law’s Veterans Disability practice has represented veterans in all 50 states and is part of the firm’s core commitment to our nation’s servicemembers. The firm is accredited by the VA to represent veterans seeking compensation, and they have successfully obtained compensation for thousands of veterans. Berry Law handles disability benefits claims related to combat wounds, post traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, vehicle accidents, chemical exposure, infectious illness, and a host of other service-related medical problems. To learn more, go online to berrylawfirm.com.

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MENTOR Nebraska Announces 2020 Mentoring Award Recipients MENTOR Nebraska presented its annual awards for Business of the Year and Mentor of the Year on April 8. The awards were scheduled to be presented at MENTOR Nebraska’s 10th Annual Mentoring Luncheon on April 1, but the event was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The award recipients were instead UNMC staff stand proud to recognized on MENTOR Nebraska’s support mentoring by participating social media channels. in MENTOR Nebraska’s Corporate Mentoring Challenge.

MENTOR Nebraska presented the 2020 Business of the Year award to the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC). The award honors a business that is committed to helping young people achieve their potential through mentoring. More than 50 UNMC employees currently mentor young people through MENTOR Nebraska’s partner mentoring programs. UNMC Erica McGruder (middle) has supported MENTOR Nebraska and her four mentees. and its partner mentoring programs through the Corporate Mentoring Challenge, as well as by hosting mentor recruitment events, recognizing employees who mentor, and sponsoring mentoring programs financially. In addition, UNMC’s College of Public Health played a crucial role in evaluating the societal benefits of mentoring in the Omaha community. A study led by Dr. Fernando Wilson helped show that for every dollar invested in mentoring, a community gets an $8 return on investment.

In addition, MENTOR Nebraska recognized Erica McGruder as the 2020 Mentor of the Year. Erica has been a mentor through Partnership 4 Kids’ group mentoring program for nearly four years. She was matched with four students when they were in the sixth grade and has continued to mentor them through high school. The group enjoys walking in the Old Market, visiting Scary Acres, sharing life advice, and making TikTok videos. Erica is a strong advocate for mentoring.

MENTOR Nebraska’s work is research-based and collaborative with the ultimate vision to bring about systemic changes that will allow mentoring programs to serve more youth with higher quality services. For more information, visit www.MENTORNebraska.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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NONPROFIT NEWS First Responders Foundation’s FRST Program Offers Online Support Groups

Stephen Center Adjusts Service Delivery, Requests Donations to Support COVID Efforts

The First Responders Support Team (FRST), a program of the First Responders Foundation led by fully-licensed behavioral health practitioners, is offering their weekly/monthly support groups online via Zoom. Due to COVID-19, many support groups have been postponed, but the following groups will be available in a virtual setting: 1. Peer Support Group on Monday evenings at 5 p.m. — This group is for First Responders. These supportive, confidential meetings are led by trained peers who are committed to managing the stress of the job in a healthy way and supporting others in their stress management. Clinicians are consulted as needed.

2. Frontline Support Group on Wednesday evenings at 6 p.m. — This group is for medical personnel (nurses, medical assistants, doctors, etc.). It is led by clinicians and mitigates immediate and long-term effects from the trauma medical personnel are currently experiencing.

3. Spouse/Significant Other Support Group on the first Friday of the month — These sessions provide an opportunity for spouses to care for themselves and learn ways to help live a more meaningful, intentional life with their first responder. This is a clinician/peer-led group.

The First Responders Foundation’s mission is to serve and honor first responders and their families. These groups are free and confidential to qualified individuals, both paid and volunteer first responders, and medical personnel in Nebraska and Iowa. Referrals are not necessary. For the Zoom meeting login information, please contact the First Responders Foundation at (402) 218-1218 / FRST@firstrespondersomaha.org or go online to www.firstrespondersomaha.org.

Stephen Center, a South Omahabased homeless shelter, permanent supportive housing and cooccurring treatment center, is requesting financial donations to continue to provide shelter and services to families and individuals experiencing homelessness during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Stephen Center is home to approximately 250 people each day. Staff are taking steps to protect the vulnerable population they serve, including more frequent cleaning of high-touch surfaces, daily client temperature checks, and health screening of new intakes.

Because current government guidelines have hindered people’s ability to attend work, school, and outside services, Stephen Center is serving more meals, and clients are using more resources—like hygiene products, paper products, cleaning supplies, and medicines—daily. Telehealth and web-based resources are being used instead of in-person appointments and meetings to keep operations running smoothly.

Donations received right now will go to support the loss of nearly 5,000 volunteer hours in recent months, cover increasing costs relating to staffing, meals, janitorial supplies, hygiene products, over-the-counter medications, campus safety, and the IT equipment needed to support telehealth and telework infrastructures. To give, please visit www.stephencenter.org.

CHAD Announces Curt Gordon Memorial Foundation Grant Recipients Combined Health Agencies Drive (CHAD) recently announced the 2020 Curt Gordon Memorial Foundation grant recipients.

Distributions made from the endowment fund are generated by funds from donors above and beyond the annual workplace campaigns across the state. Nine of the organization’s 21 member charities received programming grants this year: • Autism Action Partnership – $3,000 to fund the Circle of Friends program in 10 schools • Arthritis Foundation Nebraska – $1,750 to send kids to JA summer camp • Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska – $3,100 to expand the Unmasking Brain Injury statewide exhibit • Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, Nebraska/Iowa Chapter – $1,250 to help fund scholarships to send kids to Crohn’s summer camp • JDRF International-Nebraska, Southwest Iowa Chapter – $2,500 to fund Movie Night in North Platte • Nebraska Chapter of the National Hemophilia Foundation – $2,500 for teen program expansion • Nebraska AIDS Project – $5,000 to expand PrEP to Kearney • Nebraska Hospice and Palliative Care Association – $3,500 to fund peer-to-peer continuing education hours at its 2020 conference • Muscular Dystrophy Association of Nebraska – $1,500 to help fund scholarships to send kids to MDA camp CHAD is a local, donor-designation driven organization that has been raising funds for Nebraska’s premier health charities for over four decades. For more information, visit their website at www.chadnebraska. org, follow on social media (@CHADNebraska), or call (402) 614-8500.

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Angels Among Us Creates COVID-19 Response Fund for Its Cancer Families Angels Among Us (AAU) has created its own COVID-19 response fund for its cancer families to help fill the funding gap they are currently experiencing. Currently, 92 cancer families are being financially supported by Angels Among Us in the form of payments to mortgage and rent, utilities, auto payments, medical bills, and other critical needs. These 92 families are relying on AAU’s support more than ever.

In most cases, it is likely that a parent of a child with cancer either loses a job or is forced to quit their job due to their child’s diagnosis.

In this current situation, many families are experiencing additional income loss and additional job losses.

Imagine having a child battling cancer with a compromised immune system during these uncertain times. Imagine not only losing one job in your household, but being furloughed or laid off a second household income due to COVID-19.

Angels Among Us has commitments to keep to its families and needs your help to do so. Please consider giving to the COVID-19 response fund at https://bit.ly/2VbeIaa or send a check paid to Angels Among Us at 3858 Jones St., STE A, Omaha, NE 68105. Every dollar matters and every dollar helps to keep local cancer families focused on what matters most—their sick child.

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 2019, Angels Among Us provided financial support to 115 families, giving $410,000 to helping with expenses. For more information about events or to get involved, contact Aly Theilen at alyssa@myangelsamongus.org or visit myangelsamongus.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS Youth Emergency Services Receives $25K Grant from Lincoln Financial Foundation Amidst all the current uncertainty in the community and the world due to COVID-19, Youth Emergency Services (YES) recently received good news in the form of a $25,000 grant from the Lincoln Financial Foundation. The 2020 grant total includes $20,000 for the Homeless Youth program plus a onetime increase of $5,000 for COVID-19 relief. The award was granted a month earlier than originally planned to meet unmet needs due to health and economic crises related to the virus.

YES plans to use the grants not only to provide meals for youth through its Street Outreach Program but to also cover costs due to lost revenue during these harsh economic times. All financial focus remains on providing food, shelter, and programming for youth experiencing homelessness and near-homelessness in the Omaha community.

What is abundantly clear is that demand on food banks, community pantries, and soup kitchens will sharply increase, and that access to food is the most pressing universal need. Therefore, Lincoln Financial Group will increase giving to their food provider partners in key cities by 25%.

Youth Emergency Services offers a full continuum of care to ensure all youth receive the support they need, no matter their situation. This includes a Street Outreach Center, Emergency Shelter, Transitional Living Program, and Maternity Home. Learn more online at www.yesomaha.org.

Domesti-PUPS Reschedules Upcoming Events and Classes as Safety Measure Domesti-PUPS is taking extra care of their clients and volunteers as COVID-19 unfolds by practicing social distancing and rescheduling or cancelling upcoming events and classes. New arrangements are as follows: Saturday Playgroups: • Summer monthly playgroups will be held June 13, July 11, and August 15 • Weekly playgroups will resume in the fall on Saturday, September 5 Pet Therapy Visits: • Regular pet therapy visits will be cancelled through May 6 Obedience Classes (Lincoln location): • Puppy Manners will be held at 1 p.m. on Sunday, May 10 • Beginning Obedience will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 10 • Intermediate Obedience will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 10 • Canine Good Citizen class will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12; Testing will be held on Saturday, June 20 Pet Therapy Certification Course: • Fremont course begins Tuesday, June 30, at 6 p.m.

• Lincoln course begins Thursday, July 2, at 6 p.m.

• Auburn course dates to be announced soon Domesti-PUPS is committed to continuing their important mission as a service organization that provides assistance dogs for persons with disabilities, pet therapy programs, classroom dogs and educational programs, and a rescue dog training/adoption program. To learn more, visit domesti-pups.org. If you have signed up for a class that has been rescheduled and the dates no longer work for you, please email info@domesti-pups.org to request a refund; otherwise, your space will be held for that class. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Nonprofit Association of the Midlands Pulse Poll Shows Impact of COVID-19 on Nonprofits The Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) recently completed a poll of nonprofit leaders to better understand the impact of COVID-19 on the nonprofit community. Key findings of the Nonprofit Pulse Poll show that a majority of nonprofits anticipate significant operational impact during a time in which demand for their services is heightened.

NAM’s poll, conducted between March 16 and March 19, collected responses from more than 500 nonprofit leaders who were asked to estimate the current and anticipated level of impact COVID-19 is having on nonprofit services, programs, and operations. The poll found that nonprofits are stepping up without hesitation to serve their communities to protect public health and to support their own employees. However, COVID-19 has made the mission of nonprofits more challenging due to the following economic, health, and social fallout from the need to contain the virus: • 56% of responding nonprofits are anticipating significant impact to their programs and sustainability, while 39% are anticipating moderate impact.

• While demand for nonprofit services is increasing, nonprofits may be restricted in their ability to respond due to the immediate need of supplies, staffing, volunteers, and resources from government, philanthropic, and business entities.

• More than 90% of nonprofits have canceled or postponed events.

With very limited reserves, many nonprofits rely on earned income and fundraising events to sustain their missions. While fewer programs may slow the spread of COVID-19, it also means that nonprofits will be hindered in serving their clients.

One in 11 Nebraskans works for a nonprofit, and several of these organizations serve individuals hit hardest by job loss as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. NAM strengthens the collective voice, leadership, and capacity of nonprofit organizations enriching the quality of community life throughout Nebraska and Western Iowa. To achieve this mission for their growing base of nonprofit organizations, NAM shares nonprofit questions, challenges, and ideas with state government, foundations, and corporate decision-makers. They recommend nonprofits share their stories and contact local elected officials to insist they do more to support the ability of charitable nonprofits to serve and survive the pandemic and its economic effects.

With over 13,000 nonprofits, Nebraska has more nonprofits per 1,000 people than the United States overall, the majority of which operate with less than $250,000 in net assets.

For more information, download Nonprofit Association of the Midlands 2019 Nonprofit Economic Impact Report at www.nonprofitam.org/ EconomicImpactReport.

MAY 2020 Strictly Business 35

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NONPROFIT NEWS Heartland Hope Mission Quadruples Number of People Served in Response to COVID-19

Wear Yellow Nebraska’s Ride, Fun Run & Walk Still on for August 15

With the COVID-19 threat, Heartland Hope Mission is now serving almost quadruple the number of clients compared to last year’s numbers! The Mission needs the community’s support now more than ever as they are seeing families, friends, and neighbors suffering financially from unexpected layoffs and kids home from school. Heartland Hope Mission is dedicated to serving those who have been affected and need help with a week’s supply of food at the Mission’s drive-thru pantry. You can help by giving a financial gift online or by donating non-perishable food and hygiene items.

Heartland Hope Mission operates one of the largest food pantries in the state but is More than a Pantry as they help families work toward self-sufficiency. They primarily serve working poor families and those who may be facing a crisis situation with a week’s supply of food, clothing, diapers, job resources, and community referrals.

Like and follow Heartland Hope Mission’s Facebook page (@ HeartlandHopeMission) or follow them on LinkedIn and Instagram to stay up to date on all the great work they are doing in the community.

For more information, go online to HeartlandHopeMission.org.

Wear Yellow Nebraska will still be hosting their 17th annual Wear Yellow Ride, Fun Run & Walk on Saturday, August 15 (previously slated for May 9), at the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum in Ashland.

Registration is available online until midnight on August 10 and the t-shirt cutoff is August 1 at 5 p.m. Each registration provides two rides to a fellow Nebraskan in the fight against cancer who does not have adequate transportation to and from their treatments. Additionally, there will be a variety of events taking place after the event.

The American Heart Association’s Local Heart & Stroke Walk Goes Virtual The American Heart Association is embracing the new normal and moving its iconic annual Heart & Stroke Walk online, set for Saturday, May 30, in response to the recent coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic keeping more Americans at home. The Heart Walk, locally presented by University of Nebraska Medical Center, Nebraska Medicine, and the University of Nebraska at Omaha, is a fun and meaningful way to celebrate heart and stroke survivors, raise lifesaving funds, and encourage physical activity. The funds raised from the Heart Walk will go toward research, advocacy, CPR training, and promoting better health.

On Saturday, May 30, Omaha area Heart Walk participants and teams will not physically meet but are invited to get moving at home or around the neighborhood. Here are a few fun activities to consider choosing from: • Take a walk outside (while following current social distancing guidelines).

• Get the whole family involved and have an indoor dance party.

• Try out a few strengthening exercises like push-ups, lunges, and squats.

• Create an at home circuit workout.

To register, visit www.OmahaHeartWalk.com. From there, participants can stay up to date by downloading the Heart Walk mobile app and can encourage friends and family to join in via email or on social media. On the day of, everyone is encouraged to wear their Heart Walk shirt and post pictures and videos to document your activity using #HeartWalkNE. The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. They are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations and the support of millions of volunteers, they fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health, and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with them on Facebook (@ AmericanHeart) and Twitter (@American_Heart) or by calling 1-(800) AHA-USA1. Visit heart.org to learn more. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

There will be a variety of routes for participants to take. For those craving roads, there will be 25-, 35-, 45-, and 55-mile options. For those who like less formal roads, there will be a 27-mile beginners gravel option as well as a 56-mile experienced gravel riders route.

Those on two legs can participate in the approximate 5K run and walk through beautiful Mahoney State Park.

If you would like to participate in Wear Yellow Nebraska’s Wear Yellow Ride, Fun Run & Walk, register online at www.supportwyn.org/17.

Child Saving Institute Continues Supporting Families Through Telecommunications As the community, state, and nation face uncertainty due to the outbreak of COVID-19, Child Saving Institute (CSI) continues services to those who need it most. To ensure continuity of care for its clients, CSI has shifted to telecommunications to deliver services virtually when face-to-face interaction is not appropriate or feasible. Children and families continue to receive mental health, foster care, and prevention services.

“Continuing to provide mental health services during this time is critical,” said Peg Harriott, Child Saving Institute’s president and CEO. “We know that the current situation creates additional stress and anxiety for many families. Oftentimes, this trickles down to children. It’s imperative that children and youth have the ability to receive mental health services despite what we are facing.”

Another challenge the Omaha community faces is a lack of foster parents.

To address this critical concern, CSI will continue to host upcoming foster parent orientations in a different manner. The next orientation scheduled for May 4 at 6 p.m. will be done in a virtual setting.

“The need for foster parents locally, and across our state, is vital—right now and in the future. We must continue to bring awareness and work to engage those interested even at times like these,” Harriott added.

Anyone interested in attending an upcoming foster parent orientation must contact Joan Cooper at (402) 504-3649 or jcooper@childsaving.org to RSVP. CSI is also currently accepting new therapy clients. Appointments can be made by calling (402) 553-6000. The organization is able to accommodate Spanish-speaking clients for mental health services.

Child Saving Institute is dedicated to the prevention, intervention, and healing of child abuse, neglect, and abandonment. For 128 years, CSI has been “Responding to the cry of a child” and meeting the changing needs of metro area children. CSI served more than 2,800 children and families in 2019. To learn more about how you can support children and families during this time, visit www.childsaving.org or contact Chief Development Officer Andrea L. Richardson at arichardson@childsaving. org or (402) 554-3660.

MAY 2020 Strictly Business 37

NONPROFIT NEWS Omaha Gives! 24-Hour Charitable Challenge Set for May 20

ThriVinci Holds First Online Volunteer Orientation May 12

Be sure to mark your calendars for Omaha Gives! on Wednesday, May 20. Omaha Gives! is a 24-hour online fundraising event organized by the Omaha Community Foundation and presented by American National Bank to raise support for nonprofits in Douglas, Sarpy, and Pottawattamie Counties. It is a community-wide event to show off the area’s spirit of giving, raise awareness about local nonprofits, and celebrate the collective effort it takes to make this community great. Since 2013, this community give-together has raised $49 million for more than 1,000 nonprofits.

In 2019, the Omaha community raised a total of $6.8 million from 18,612 donors, through a record 48,661 donations. The event continues to show consistency with previous Omaha Gives days; this past year, almost one-third of donations were first-time gifts and 88% of the total donations were gifts of $100 or less, reinforcing that giving together makes a significant impact.

There are many ways to get involved with Omaha Gives! Give to your favorite nonprofit with the minimum donation amount is just $1.

Provide CHALLENGE FUNDS for a nonprofit close to your heart or create a CHEER PAGE to rally support for nonprofits of your choice.

You can also schedule a donation starting May 1 and donate during the event. Be sure to visit omahagives.org to learn more, search profiles of participating nonprofits, make your donation, and track progress during the event on the leaderboard.

N ow m o r e s o t h a n e ve r before, there is a dire need in nonprofit organizations for capable and skilled volunteers. To attempt to fulfill that need, ThriVinci will be holding an online volunteer orientation session on May 12 from 6 to 8 p.m. Drop-in to learn what projects they’re currently working on and how you can apply your skills to make the most impact possible. Volunteering doesn’t have to be done in person, you can create change from the comfort of your own home.

ThriVinci is an organization of skilled professionals who donate their time and expertise to improve nonprofit organizations.

Volunteer consultants work directly with ThriVinci’s experienced staff to elevate the impact of fellow nonprofits by implementing organizational effectiveness which focuses on talent management, leadership development, and organizational design and structure.

They support fellow nonprofits’ projects and goals by sourcing them with talented and driven volunteers. ThriVinci matches volunteers to nonprofits based on skills and common goals.

ThriVinci’s online volunteer information will take place at meet. google.com/mgw-unhv-dcx?hs=122&authuser=2. If you’re itching to help out communities in need during the pandemic, go online to ThriVinci.org or follow their Facebook (@ThriVinci). You can also contact Victoria Graeve-Cunningham or Roxanne Dockter for more information at (402) 281-3462 / info@thrivinci.org.

It’s More Than Just A Job, It’s The Chance To Build A Career As one of the fastest growing companies in Nebraska, we rely on our skilled, well-crafted team to create lasting community impact.

As one of the area’s leading growing companies in Department Of Transportation (DOT) and infrastructure projects, we work on everything from highway surface treatments and parking garage repairs to Industrial painting and masonry restoration.

We need qualified candidates more than ever.

Are you ready to learn, do outstanding work and be part of something special?

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Strictly Business MAY 2020

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NONPROFIT NEWS Jennie Edmundson Foundation Postpones Wheels of Courage Fundraiser Until Fall 2020 Jennie Edmundson Foundation has decided to put the well-being of their supporters first by postponing Wheels of Courage, their annual car show fundraiser. The event was originally meant to take place on June 27 but is now being rescheduled for the fall.

Wheels of Courage is an exciting outdoor car show that features a variety of car categories for anyone to enter and win. There is also an auction and raffle with unique prizes. The money raised at Wheels of Courage goes towards the Charitable Patient Care Fund, which helps Methodist Jennie Edmundson patients who are underinsured or without medical insurance relieve some of the financial burden of coping with serious illness by covering medical services, therapy, and prescriptions.

The Jennie Edmundson Foundation is dedicated to being the bridge that connects the community with those in need at the Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital. To learn more, go to jehfoundation.org.

Nonprofit Association of the Midlands Relocates to Historic Mastercraft Building On March 9, the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) relocated its office to the historic Mastercraft building, 1111 N 13th St., STE 213 in downtown Omaha.

“The Mastercraft...is a perfect fit as we help our nonprofit members representing health and human services, the arts, education, and other areas make an impact in the communities they serve,” NAM CEO Anne Hindery said.

Incorporated in 2002, Nonprofit Association of the Midlands is a state association that represents more than 650 nonprofit organizations in Nebraska and southwest Iowa.

For more information on NAM, visit nonprofitam.org.

Open Door Mission Holds Drive-Thrus for COVID-19 Resources Due to COVID-19 precautions, Open Door Mission had to pause some of their regular programs, including their Outreach Centers where typically 1,000 people a day are served. Still wanting to make sure these people were able to receive their food, diapers, and toiletries during the crisis, Open Door Mission held drive-thrus on March 28, during which over 4,500 people were served, and on April 18, during which 5,232 people were served. Because the Mission implemented a Shelter in Place Policy to protect guests and staff, no volunteers were on campus to help distribute the food so about 30 Open Door Mission staff did the job.

Open Door Mission is a Gospel Rescue Mission founded in 1954 committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness and poverty. To learn more, visit www.opendoormission.org or contact Amy Harvey at (402) 829-1511 / AHarvey@opendoormission.org with further questions. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

T hank You Clients!

Thank

Health

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care W orkers

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Thank You Readers!

OHB Requests Financial Donations to Help Fund New Online School Internet Costs With Nebraska schools fully transitioned to online learning, Omaha Home for Boys (OHB) is facing a new and rising cost of internet and technology bills to allow their young adults to stay in school. Financial donations would help pay for Internet and Wi-Fi access that their high school and college aged youth require to continue their education. The COVID-19 pandemic has hit youth and young families especially hard—taking away childcare, daily meals for their children, employment, and easy access to the internet from public places such as libraries.

A financial donation to OHB will not only help students access class work but will also: • Assist youth displaced from dormitory shut-downs • Provide meals to help young families feed their children • Provide rental assistance and other necessities like utilities, gas, insurance, and medical for youth who have reduced work schedules • Assist in buying groceries for young adults and families who have lost their jobs In 2019, OHB served more than 1,300 youth, young adults, children and families. To donate to the cause, please visit OHB.org.

Ronald McDonald House Offers Meals That Heal Program with Curbside Delivery Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) is thoroughly grateful for the continued support of the Meals That Heal program, not only for the food provided to families but for the community’s dedication to supporting their neighbors in any way possible. To lessen the risk of potential infection for their families, volunteer activities have been restricted and meals can only be donated via “curbside delivery.” Since the crisis began, most of these deliveries have been ordered through local restaurants that are also feeling the strain of the current circumstances.

RMHC is no stranger to illness. The families they serve have children facing a whole host of illnesses, many of which compromise their immune systems, making them vulnerable to infections. As an organization, they do whatever it takes to ensure those children and their families have a clean, safe, supportive environment where they can heal, together.

Families staying at Ronald McDonald House Charities count on the community to provide them with much-needed meals at the end of their long days, and that need has not diminished during this COVID-19 pandemic. To participate in the Meals That Heal program without ever leaving your home, contact Laurie Cope at lcope@rmhcomaha.org.

Learn more about RMHC online at www.rmhcomaha.org.

MAY 2020 Strictly Business 39

NONPROFIT NEWS WE WORK. WE GROW. WE LIVE. WE CONTRIBUTE.

Thank you to these businesses who recently joined the Chamber and invested in the community Abrahamson Law Antidote 71, Inc Asset Environments Bow Kite Design

Next Recruitment and Consulting Owen Industries The Redwood Group

CMBA Architects

Robert Half International

Craft Axe

Rushmore Buckeye Global, LLC

Fierro Fence, LLC

Scooter’s 144th & I-80

Indian Creek Golf Course

Solvere HR Consulting

ITS Healthcare, LLC

State Farm Insurance - Quinten White

La Casa Del Pueblo Lee Douglas Interiors

Therapy Works of Nebraska

Mjenzi

TOSSIBLES

Get started today at

OmahaChamber.org/Membership

402-346-5000 40

Strictly Business MAY 2020

HETRA Adapts in the Face of COVID-19, Reschedules Blue Jeans and Dreams Fundraiser While their campus has been closed and sessions have remained suspended since early March, HETRA has taken steps to tackle the obstacles created by the current COVID-19 crisis. Their 20th Annual Blue Jeans and Dreams event has been rescheduled to Saturday, September 12, at 5 p.m. HETRA’s primary focus has since been shifted toward ensuring the well-being of their Equine Partners, the HETRA Herd. HETRA’s Annual Horse of the Year Race, typically a summer campaign, has been launched early here in the spring. This campaign is vital to the annual care of the horses and covers expenses such as shelter, stall shavings, hay, grain, supplements, veterinary care, farrier care, physical conditioning, and individualized training programs.

Additionally, HETRA has launched an online initiative to bring educational materials to their participant families and the overall horse community.

HETRA University provides everything from educational short videos to long-form equine instruction webinars; coloring pages, worksheets, and Storytime with the Mini Horses segments are available as well. The majority of these materials are available for viewing and/or download, free-of-charge at www.HETRA.org. A select few of HETRA’s webinars, geared toward Equine-Assisted Activity Professionals, will be offered at low-cost in both live and on-demand formats.

HETRA’s mission is to improve the quality of life both physically and emotionally of adults and children of all ability levels through equineassisted activities. Learn more at www.HETRA.org.

MICAH House’s Champagne & Diamonds Derby Event Goes Digital The 23rd annual Champagne & Diamonds event benefitting MICAH House is changing its format.

In an effort to support social distancing and protect guests, staff, and volunteers, MICAH House is transitioning from the Kentucky Derby to a virtual platform.

Additionally, the event date has been pushed back to Saturday, May 9.

While the Kentucky Derby has been moved back until September, Champagne & Diamonds couldn’t wait. MICAH House depends on these crucial funds to support more than 200 families and 350 single women annually. The new virtual event will still include components of the traditional event including a silent auction and the much-anticipated diamond raffle. Other ways to support MICAH House include: • Support local—MICAH House is partnering with Council Bluffs and Omaha restaurants and stores to support local business. Attendees will be able to buy gift cards and support both the business and MICAH House’s mission.

• Diamonds—In addition to purchasing raffle tickets for your chance to win a beautiful diamond necklace, donated by Gunderson’s Jewelers, supporters will also have the opportunity to purchase select diamond jewelry leading up to the event. A portion of the sale will be donated back to MICAH House.

• Nights of Shelter—Supporters can provide direct support to families and women experiencing homelessness through Nights of Shelter. By making a donation today, supporters ensure that everyone at MICAH House has a warm meal to eat and safe place to sleep at night.

Tickets aren’t required for MICAH House’s virtual Champagne & Diamonds event and more details are available on the website at themicahhouse.org/diamonds. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS Camp Summergold Looks Onward to 2021, Encourages At-Home Collage Making

NAMI Omaha Utilizes Zoom for Connections Meetings and Family Support Groups

With the health and safety risk presented

by COVID-19 to Camp Summergold’s campers and staff, it is with a heavy heart they have announced their decision to cancel all 2020 programming. The leadership team is already planning for the 2021 camp schedule, which will run between June 6–12. You can help send girls to camp in 2021 by supporting Camp Summergold on May 20 through Omaha Gives! and on May 28 through Give to Lincoln Day. In addition, Camp Summergold is encouraging families to make collages (8.5” x 11”) at home with the theme of TEAMWORK! Collages are a piece of art made by sticking various different materials such as photographs and pieces of paper or fabric on to a backing. Camp Summergold campers love making collages, and since they won’t be able to make them together at camp now, they can still make them at home and share them on the Camp Summergold website. Send a picture of your finished collage to info@campsummergold.com.

Camp Summergold’s mission is based on bringing a diverse community of girls together in a fun and safe environment. Kids need camp! It’s a safe structured time away from home where campers learn to make choices, get interested in new things, and meet new people. Learn more about the organization online at www.campsummergold.com or call Camp Director Judy Hart at (402) 474-2206.

NAMI Omaha has announced that connections meetings and family support groups will still be available utilizing Zoom on the following dates/times: Connection Meetings (Peer-Led Groups): • Mondays, 6:30–8 p.m. (Meeting ID #627-585-818) • Fridays, 2:30–4 p.m. (Meeting ID #932-125-259) Family Support Group: • Tuesdays, 6–7:30 p.m. (Meeting ID #870-7442-7981) Registration is required and closes 30 minutes before each meeting starts. To register, go to Zoom.com, click on “Join A Meeting,” and enter the appropriate Meeting ID. 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 / (877) 463-6264. For helpful articles on mental illness, follow on Facebook (@NAMIOmaha).

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands Goes Online Even in the face of adversity Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands (BBBSM) is excited to announce that they will be moving many of their programs online. Due to the spread of COVID-19, BBBSM wants to ensure that kids and volunteers are able still mentor in the safest way possible.

Beginning this month, the organization will make their information and training sessions available on their website. By making sessions available online, BBBSM will continue to find mentors for the 120+ kids on their waiting list.

In addition to moving those processes online, BBBSM is beginning to recruit mentors for their new online mentoring program, Mentor U. Through Mentor U, high school students are matched with mentors who offer valuable college and career support. It was created to help high school students develop personal, academic, and career skills by providing each student with a volunteer with experience in a variety of areas.

The students and their mentee will engage in weekly college and career lessons online, and through electronically guided props, they can discuss a variety of topics together. With the option between community based mentoring and Mentor U, BBBSM will be able to ignite the potential of more youth within their reach.

For 60 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters has strived for all youth in the program to reach their full potential. A Big Brother, Big Sister, or Big Couple provides youth with a sense of safety and security, emotional support, and social skill promotion. Bigs and Littles are matched based on common interests so they can have the benefit of doing activities together that they both enjoy. With a Big by their side, more Littles are discovering who they are and what they can achieve in life. Big Brothers Big Sisters is working to clear the path for youth’s biggest possible futures.

For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands, go online to bbbsomaha.org. If you’re interested in Mentor U, contact the Mentor U Program Coordinator Sam Maxfield via email at smaxfield@bbbsomaha.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Nebraska Community Foundation Explains How CARES Act Impacts Charitable Giving T h e N eb ra s k a C o m m u n i t y Foundation (NCF) is aware of the impact the CARES Act will have on charitable giving. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress has passed the $2 trillion-plus CARES Act which does many things, including providing direct cash payments to Americans, pushing back income tax filing and payment deadlines, and encouraging charitable giving. The NCF shared three ways the CARES Act may affect charitable giving: 1. Above-the-Line Charitable Deduction—To encourage cash gifts to nonprofits, there is $300 above-the-line income tax charitable deduction that is available beginning in 2020 to those who claim the standard deduction. Only about 10% of donors itemize their deductions; for the 90% who take the standard deduction, this may motivate them to make charitable gifts.

2. 100% Charitable Deduction—For 2020, individual donors may deduct cash gifts to charities up to 100% of their adjusted gross income (AGI). The 100% limit is reduced dollar-for-dollar for each non-cash gift (i.e., highly appreciated stocks or property) and is not available for cash gifts to donor-advised funds. In normal years, donors can carry forward charitable deductions if they go above 60% of their AGI, and that might still be a good idea. The taxpayer must make an election on his/her tax return to take the larger deduction. It is important to seek counsel from a professional advisor.

3. Temporary waiver of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from retirement plans for 2020—RMDs do not have to be taken for 2020, which may reduce the incentive for donors to make qualified charitable distributions (QCDs). However, donors are still allowed to make QCDs from their IRAs of up to $100,000 beginning at age 70.5.

Nebraska Community Foundation unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving, and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. Learn more at NebraskaHometown.org.

MAY 2020 Strictly Business 41

HEALTH NEWS Clearwater Counseling Continues to Serve Clients Amid Pandemic Through Telehealth

Nebraska Community Blood Bank Invites Healthy Donors to Support Community Health

At Clearwater Counseling, PC the safety and health of its clients, community partners, therapists, and families is always a top priority, especially amid the coronavirus pandemic. During this uncertain and stressful time, Clearwater Counseling has continued to serve its clients virtually via an online telehealth system.

Nebraska Community Blood Bank (NCBB) is inviting all healthy blood donors to step forward in an effort to support community health. NCBB continues to operate as an essential part of Nebraska’s infrastructure during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Donating blood is a safe and simple way to support the health of the community, and only volunteer donors can provide the blood products patients rely on.

There has been an overwhelming response to the recent appeal for donors, and NCBB would like to thank all of the Nebraskans who have donated in support of their friends and neighbors. The need for blood is constant, and NCBB will continue to need donors in the coming months.

Blood is perishable and the supply must be constantly replenished to ensure a stable supply for Nebraska’s major hospitals. It’s the blood on the shelf today that helps save lives in an emergency.

NCBB has implemented additional safety measures to keep donors and staff safe, including social distancing and restricted access at donor centers, making appointments mandatory to help maintain distancing, and additional screening measures for donors and staff. As always, donors must be free from any cold or flu-like symptoms for at least 72 hours to be eligible to give.

Please consider making an appointment to give blood or platelets in the coming weeks. Contact Nebraska Community Blood Bank to schedule and to learn more about how they keep donors and staff safe amid the COVID-19 pandemic by going online to NCBB.org.

Telehealth, which is an audio and visual service in one, requires no software or application download. An email address is required, and it’s important to use an account that can be accessed often and easily.

Clients can access this service via a computer/laptop, mobile device, or tablet. Telehealth is also completely HIPAA Compliant. Insurance companies are covering telehealth services, and some are also covering session co-pays, as well.

Teletherapy allows clients to receive the mental health services they need without putting the health of others at risk. Virtual therapy is also a great option for those who wish to take extra precautions to not get sick.

Whether in person or on the screen, Clearwater Counseling, PC is committed to serving clients with the absolute best care possible. For more information and to view a detailed telehealth guide, please visit clearwatercounselingpc.org/telehealth-information. To learn more about staff or resources, visit clearwatercounselingpc.org. To schedule a virtual appointment with or for more information about mental health services, please call (308) 210-8487 or email info@clearwatercounselingne.org.

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Strictly Business MAY 2020

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HEALTH NEWS Hillcrest’s Telehealth Provider, Medocity, Launches COVID-19 Digital Platform Medocity, a leader in enterprise virtual care technology, launched its COVID-19 screening and remote monitoring solution on March 26 for Hillcrest Home Care. Built upon Medocity’s flagship Digital Care Platform, the population-based C OV I D - 1 9 p ro g r a m e n a b l e s virtual screening, remote symptom monitoring, vital signs tracking, and proactive interventions personalized for any population, including high-risk patients with multiple co-morbidities.

“Coronavirus puts many of our home health clients, particularly those with complex conditions such as COPD and CHF, at far greater risk than before,” said Lauren Wright, administrator of Hillcrest Home Care. “We can now remotely monitor and track changes to temperature, oxygen levels, and other COVID-19 specific symptoms every day. This allows us to quickly identify those requiring additional healthcare attention so that we can provide the right service at the right time.”

In response to the expanding global threat, Medocity accelerated development of a targeted digital program with COVID-19 specific clinical protocols to: • Aid in the early identification of possible COVID-19 cases in a population • Proactively push frequent, consistent, relevant communications and guidance personalized to each user • A llow for real-time active monitoring of individuals and reported symptoms • Facilitate timely escalation of care as changes in health status are noted • Track and report evolving COVID-19 related population health statistics and trends over time to ensure resources are appropriately deployed Hillcrest Home Care clinical team members will use their own mobile devices to provide daily self-reported symptom checks to ensure they are healthy and able to report to work. Separately, low-risk at-home patients can use their own mobile devices to perform the same self-assessments. For high-risk COPD and CHF patients, Hillcrest will utilize its existing remote monitoring program with pre-configured tablets and devices supplied by Medocity. Any reported patientvitals such as temperature, heart rate, or oxygen levels (pulse ox) that are outside pre-determined parameters will trigger real-time clinician alerts and appropriate, proactive COVID-19 interventions.

The Medocity Digital Care Platform is the next generation in early and proactive intervention, enabling their clients to deliver comprehensive virtual care programs for patients with any condition, anywhere in the world, monitoring patient-reported data from hundreds of sources, and applying artificial intelligence to identify anomalies, send out alerts, and intervene when necessary—all in real-time, through one common ecosystem. For more information, visit www.medocity.com.

Hillcrest Home Care offers skilled medical home health and telehealth services to aging adults in 11 counties in Nebraska and Iowa. The agency is part of Hillcrest Health Services, which offers the widest array of senior health care and housing services in the region, including independent and assisted living, memory support, postacute rehabilitation, long-term care, adult day services, outpatient therapy, home health, hospice and in-home personal care. For more information about Hillcrest’s services, visit hillcresthealth.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

LRS Healthcare Expands Operations LRS Healthcare is expanding operations in every facet of the company. LRS moved to a new headquarters in the Westroads Office Park in late 2019, expanding to an HQ with nearly 40,000 square feet of office space, which is more than double their prior location in West Omaha.

Listed as the Top Travel Nurse company in the U.S. in 2019 by BluePipes, LRS is on the cutting edge of an industry that has seen increases in growth over each of the past seven years.

As a significant part of their future growth and industry boom, they are planning to increase their internal staff in areas such as sales/recruiting, finance, operations, and credentialing by 30%–50% in 2020. LRS is making a significant investment in their technology, medical staffing software, credentialing, and employee training. With an internal classroom that can accommodate 50–60 employees, they are well on their way to meeting their goas for the new year.

LRS Healthcare is an industry leader in healthcare and medical staffing and works to place traveling medical professionals in longterm assignments in all 50 states and DC. As a growing company with a national footprint, the company knows it’s imperative to invest in employees and the community. Client hospitals and vendors entrust LRS to staff them with adequately trained nurses and allied health professionals.

This commitment to excellence has helped fuel growth for over the past decade and will continue to do so long into the future. Learn more online at www.LRSHealthcare.com.

Miller Orthopedic Specialists Now Offering Telehealth to Established Patients Miller Orthopedic Specialists is now offering telehealth options for all established patients. With COVID-19 (coronavirus) cases on the rise, Miller Orthopedic Specialists is working hard to provide quality care while protecting their patients and staff.

This would give the opportunity to better practice social distancing while still providing for patients’ orthopedic needs.

The telehealth option for established patients will allow the clinic staff and providers to interact with patients through internet capabilities, audio, and video via their tablets, phones, or computers. This will help the doctors do check-ups on patients without the patient feeling as though they are being put at risk by going out. With many older patients, this is very important as it allows the patient to be seen and have their questions answered, without having to leave their home.

During a time of uncertainty, it is important that patients can feel as though they can have their orthopedic needs addressed without endangering themselves or others. It will help limit patients having to cancel their appointments by providing better access to this healthcare.

While this option is currently only available for established patients, it will still greatly increase the safety of new patients and staff. Telehealth can provide a quick, accessible, and easy option for appointments, without violating social distancing.

Miller Orthopedic Specialists provides high quality patient-centered care.

Their services range from sports medicine and total joint replacement, to spine and neck, hand and wrist, and foot and ankle surgery. Patients can call the Council Bluffs office at (712) 323-5333 or the Omaha office at (402) 991-9958 to schedule an appointment. More information can be found online at www.millerortho.com.

MAY 2020 Strictly Business 43

Employing Omaha This is the first-ever Employing Omaha feature in Strictly Business, and it sure came at an interesting time. We’ve been excited about the launch of this feature for almost a year but waited to work it into our editorial calendar at the most optimal time of year, keeping it spaced out from our Supporting Nonprofits and Joining Organizations features.

However, when we slated this feature to run in the May issue, we could have never predicted the state our economy would be in as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.

For a minute, we considered pulling the feature and waiting for the next scheduled feature issue (November 2020). However, we decided to move forward with it. The reason being that, while there are many businesses that have been forced to layoff wonderful employees or, at the very least, pause their hiring efforts, there are also still companies recruiting during this time—and even more so in some cases. Plus, with the unemployment rate rising by the day, this is a good time for companies Hillcrest Health Services offers the region’s largest continuum of health services for aging adults.

Employing 1,600+ team members, Hillcrest offers tremendous opportunities for career advancement while working for a highly-respected, growing organization. Our team members take advantage of company-supported programs for professional development to grow in their current roles and prepare for their next opportunity within the organization. Our mission-driven culture and commitment to our strategic vision and corporate values helps ensure we’re an employer of choice. We’re actively involved in the community and participate in many local events. We also host events to recognize our team members.

If you’re interested in a fulfilling career helping others, then Hillcrest wants you on our team! Visit HillcrestCareers.com to browse the latest career opportunities or contact a recruiter at (402) 682-6572 / careers@hillcresthealth.com.

44 Strictly Business MAY 2020

that are still hiring to showcase their team culture, benefits, company values, available positions, etc. to an audience of skilled workers looking for the next step in their career path.

At Strictly Business, we truly believe that Omaha is a wonderful place to live, WORK, and play. We are honored to partner with so many reputable employers, and we are proud to tell you a little bit about a few of them in this feature. Whether you have recently found yourself “between jobs” or you’re curious about pursuing a new passion, we encourage you to read through the following write-ups to learn about employment opportunities at some amazing local companies. In addition, if you are currently with a company that is looking to add people to your team, please reach out to us about participating in our next employment feature! Though we know budgets and resources are tighter than ever, we truly believe that companies that continue to promote their values during this time will come out on top.

CFO Systems is a nationwide firm founded in 2005 to provide practical, experienced financial and human resources leadership to middle-market companies. Our vision is to be a collaborative partner who helps our client companies grow to their full potential.

The team is comprised of CFOs, controllers, audit directors, finance managers, senior accountants, and human resource experts. Our team has over 1,400 years of experience in numerous industries in a variety of roles. This depth of knowledge, education, experience provides our clients with access to reliable experts who provide objective leadership, strategy, and creativity without the expense of a full-time executive.

CFO Systems was named on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing companies for four consecutive years. We operate nationwide, with a heavy presence in the Midwest, with teams in Omaha, Lincoln, Denver, Des Moines, and Kansas City. Learn more about working at CFO Systems online at www.CFOSystemsLLC.com or contact (402) 884-0066 / office@CFOSystemsLLC.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

The Harry A. Koch Co. is a market leader throughout the region for insurance and financial benefits in the areas of commercial insurance, employee benefits, surety bonds, and personal insurance. We have been part of Omaha for over 100 years and are now the largest locally-owned agency in Nebraska.

We intend to build on that as we fulfill our mission to create and deliver solutions for our clients through the professional knowledge and technical skills of our employees.

We are excited to continue to create more opportunities for growth while maintaining our best in class service and culture. We know to make it another 100 years, we need dedicated and motivated team members. The insurance industry provides a challenging career with opportunities to build meaningful relationships with clients, fellow team members, and the community. Learn more about The Koch Co. and our career opportunities at www.hakco. com/careers.

The staff at Midland Pumping Service continues to offer efficient and affordable services to residential and commercial customers in the Omaha metro. They strive for excellent service with every customer encounter as they provide both scheduled and emergency work. The quality of their services is proven by their evergrowing base of loyal customers!

Midland Pumping Service offers a wide variety of liquid waste pumping of septic tanks, restaurant grease traps and car wash and industrial pits, as well as hydrojetting of plumbing and sewer lines.

Midland employees enjoy a tight-knit work atmosphere that offers flexible and varied work hours. The company is always looking for the next person to add to their exceptional team of CDL certified drivers. Experience is preferred but not required.

For more information or for questions about employment options, visit their website, www.midlandpumpingservice.com, or contact the office staff at (402) 332-5575 or midlandpumpingservice@gmail.com.

This year, McGill Restoration is celebrating its 35th year in business thanks to our dedicated team of craftsmen.

Knowledge is one of our core values, and we believe that training ensures that our employees learn and grow as individuals, tradesmen, and as members of our community. Our field employees are offered internally developed programs, such as our Foreman-in-Training Program (FIT), specialty equipment operator training, and on-the-job training to learn new skills, which will advance them within our trade. In addition to internal training opportunities, we have committed significant resources to external training including leadership training, OSHA courses, and other professional designations. We also encourage training and education for our office, administrative, and shop personnel. To retain our best talent, we’re always looking for ways to continue elevating their abilities! Having been named to the Inc. 5000’s fastest growing companies list four consecutive years, we take pride keeping our employees busy year-round.

To learn more about careers with McGill Restoration, visit www. mcgillrestoration.com or call (402) 558-7989. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Without great employees, West Gate Bank ® would be just another bank. If you are interested in pursuing a rewarding career where your skills and passions can benefit team members and customers, consider joining us at West Gate Bank. Whether you are looking for a new challenge or are ready to advance your talents in a different way, we encourage you to apply for a position that fits your goals. We offer full-time positions, part-time positions with flexible schedules, on-the-job training, a friendly work environment, and tuition reimbursement for employees working more than 20 hours per week. See westgate.bank for details.

Founded over 40 years ago, Sandhills Global began with seven employees in a blacksmith shop. The company has grown immensely since then, and today Sandhills’ headquarters are situated on a sprawling 68-acre campus in Lincoln, Nebraska, with over a dozen additional offices serving regions worldwide. The company currently employs roughly 1,400 people in sales, marketing, IT, web development, graphic design, and journalism, among other fields.

Sandhills’ primary business is connecting buyers and sellers of construction equipment, farm machinery, trucks, trailers, and aircraft through industry-leading websites and print publications with a global reach. Sandhills complements its core brands—including Machinery Trader, Truck Paper, TractorHouse, Controller, and AuctionTime— with products and services that help all kinds of businesses thrive. In addition to hosting over 7,000 websites, Sandhills offers custom web design, equipment valuation, financial services, heavy equipment shipping, and much more.

For information about careers, visit www.sandhills.jobs, call (402) 479-2181, or email human-resources@sandhills.com.

Thompson & Thompson 3rd Generation, Inc. is one of the most established and respected roofing contractors in the local area. We pride ourselves in the quality of our work, fair prices, and outstanding customer service while providing a dynamic, friendly, and familyoriented work environment. We stay on the cutting edge of product innovations and ideas to deliver the most informed suggestions possible.

Here are some reasons to work for Thompson & Thompson from the current team: • Amy W. — I enjoy the people I work with and we have great customers!

• Jessica E. — The owners genuinely care about their employees and treat them in a way that proves it.

• Adam S. — Opportunity to grow professionally.

• Kaleb R. — People trust me to do my job right and don›t micro manage.

• Edgar M. — Our team is efficient, prepared, and we get things done right!

• Dan E. — The ability to create success for myself and others.

• Victoria A. — Ability to move up and be given responsibility.

• Joe A. — Flexible and can make good money.

• Kevin B. — Fun work environment, trustworthy owners, and a chance to give input.

Thompson & Thompson is always looking for great people to join our team. We are looking for a sales and assistant production manager, along with people who are good with numbers and can negotiate. To learn more, visit www.thompsonthird.com/careers or call Owner Dan Thompson at (402) 306-5836.

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RESPONDING TO COVID-19:

HOW THE PANDEMIC HAS CHANGED US The month of April took our country to places none of us could have anticipated. Collectively, we’ve witnessed trials we might have dismissed at one time with “that could never happen”—yet these things have happened, and we continue on, knowing well that more unknowns lie ahead of us. Living through the evolution of COVID-19 has brought a change to the rhythm of daily life. Where we used to commute, we now set up office in our spare rooms or at the kitchen table. Where we used to eat out with friends every Friday night, we now stay home and cook from the pantry and watch movies. Where we used to say we were invincible, we now know we are not.

One question that becomes more and more pressing as this global situation unfolds is just how current events will impact the future. What will our new normal be in six months, or one year from now? Will the effects of social distancing become permanently imprinted on society, such that we experience a sustained sense of lost connection from those around us? Will once bustling office spaces remain quiet as some choose to continue working from home? Will technology increasingly replace our tangible experience with the world?

Our staff here at Strictly Business feels the weight of these questions and the importance of the answers we will give to them in the coming days. As daunting as the future may seem at times, we also see We are encouraged to that many good things have see friends and families come from the changes we’ve socializing with their senior had to make in recent weeks.

In suffering a loss of certain loved ones in unique ways. things we once enjoyed, we’ve also been blessed with other things that once seemed to elude us.

We now find ourselves spending more time with family, making a priority of health and wellness, taking thoughtful spiritual inventory of our lives, living more frugally, and overall benefitting from the effects of a simpler lifestyle. We’ve read more books, said more sincere prayers, spent more time exercising at home, picked up hobbies we’d nearly forgotten and dusted off the old guitar in the corner. In short, we’ve found the priceless gifts of human connection, creativity, and ingenuity that come from living through hard times. This experience has begun to clear the fog of our previously overly-busy lives and given us insight into some of the ways we might benefit moving forward. Our hope is that we can remember what we’re learning and use this experience as a catalyst for positive

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change and growth. In that spirit of hope, we’d like to share a snapshot of the changes we’re already witnessing in our community as well as some suggestions for continued improvement for the future.

Services Adapted to Fit the Times At the business level, we have witnessed massive efforts to reconsider, reorganize, and restructure the way we do business and how we offer services to our customers and clients in order to continue helping people during challenging and unusual circumstances. These changes have made us uncomfortable at times—change is never easy—while also helping us stay connected with others, as the discomfort of change is one thing we all have in common right now. We’ve been impressed by the efforts of businesses to make sacrifices of time, funds, and other resources in order to continue providing important services and products to the public. Our hearts go out to the staff and personnel at hospitals, clinics, assisted living communities, and other businesses providing life-giving services such as home health care as well as those who continue to provide us with food, stock and run our grocery markets, pick up our trash for us, deliver our mail, protect our communities, and provide a host of other vital services, even at the risk of their own health.

We’ve been touched to hear stories of healthcare and assisted living communities that have been forced to close their doors to visitors as a safety measure. The staff at these communities have since doubled their efforts to provide cheer, comfort, and entertainment to their residents, even as they work overtime to do whatever is necessary to keep these residents safe. What further impresses us is how the public has also responded to these situations. Our social media feeds have been graced by stories of healthcare workers who have faced a shortage of supplies such as N95 masks who have then had to improvise and use handmade materials to get by. Kind people have stepped up in generous ways, as exampled in the actions of the staff at Bridge to Better Living, who have lent a hand during this difficult time by making face masks, helping deliver Tabitha Meals on Wheels to seniors in the community, donating blood, and contacting seniors who are isolated.

We are encouraged to see friends and families socializing with their senior loved ones in unique ways. Hillcrest Health Services started a Pen Pal Program and invited the public to email encouraging letters, artwork, photos, stories, etc. to letters@hillcresthealth.com. Recreation teams at the Hillcrest communities in Douglas, Sarpy, and Lancaster counties share the letters with residents and assist them in responding to their new pen pals.

“The idea came about when family members at Hillcrest Millard, our post-acute rehab and long-term care community in Omaha, began taping signs to their loved ones’ windows and ‘visiting’ on the phone with their loved ones from outside,” explained Liz Stratman, Director of Communications for Hillcrest Health Services. “Since launching the program on March 18, we’ve received more than 400 emails containing everything from encouraging notes to YouTube videos individuals have recorded for residents to beautiful drawings and other artwork.” #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Care Consultants for the Aging shared five tips on their Facebook page on how to help a lonely elderly loved one, encouraging people to reach out to seniors even as we’re all keeping our distance to stay safe: 1. Show that you are available 2. Ask how they feel 3. Be dependable 4. Help them discover new ways to stay in touch 5. Ask other people for help Many healthcare providers found in recent weeks that new methods are needed to reach patients in order to limit exposure, and telehealth has quickly become a household word. Clearwater Counseling acted proactively to offer virtual visits so they can continue helping their patients, especially during a time when so many are experiencing increased stress and mental health services are so needed.

9Round Fitness looked to the needs of people confined to home by taking their exercise services online through livestreamed workouts so their loyal regulars could continue on with their healthy fitness habits and maintain a sense of balance and normal life.

Center Sphere took the opportunity to continue serving its members in new ways, in spite of social distancing. Their Zoom meetup, “Master the Virtual Experience,” has allowed professionals to continue connecting and networking with others so they don’t feel cut off as they do their part to responsibly keep distance from others while still supporting each others’ businesses.

Sandhills Global teamed up with LIBA and the Nebraska Retail Federation to develop an online platform for local business owners to sell gift cards or gift certificates to help infuse cash into their businesses through the website NebraskaBuyLocal.com. The website acts as a streamlined, centralized location that makes it simple for people to offer support to local businesses.

Cornhusker Bank helped fund an emergency effort to assist a stranded youth group on a mission trip to Honduras in returning safely back home to the United States; the youth group arrived on U.S. soil only 48 hours before the Honduran government grounded all flights and sealed off the country.

Gestures of Kindness and Support There were others in addition to Cornhusker Bank who touched us with their acts of support and kindness. Local internet providers blew us away with their generosity in offering a variety of free services to support local businesses and families. Cox Communications announced that it would offer a low-income internet tier with no annual contract and relaxing data usage overage charges for all tiers. The offer includes a $19.99 new Starter plan for internet customers with a temporary boost up to 50 Mbps download speeds, and no annual contract or qualifications to help low income and those impacted from COVID-19 challenges, such as seniors and college students. Cox also eliminated data usage overages to meet the higher bandwidth demands, and customers with a 500 GB or Unlimited data usage add-on plan have received credits.

We also heard story after story of construction companies donating N95 masks to support healthcare workers in their shortage of supplies.

McGill Restoration led the way in collecting money to purchase KN95 respirators to provide to medical facilities across the nation, with a goal of donating one million masks.

Centris Federal Credit Union really strengthened our faith in humanity with their donation of two giant containers of shelf-stable foods to Together Omaha. Lincoln Federal Savings Bank sent an email to their families and employees calling for donations for local food pantries and received nearly $500 in donations in response to a single email. They then encouraged the community to find other ways to support community members in need.

Resources and Education for Uncharted Waters Berry Law offered a resource for working remotely through an educational video in which they discussed the importance of schedule and routine in staying productive, along with some suggestions for a possible routine outline. For a nation suddenly overturned by the closing of offices #PrintProudDigitalSmart

and a flood of people working from home, the discussion of how to create and stick to a strong routine is timely and relevant. Scantron Technology Solutions has offered an ongoing stream of helpful tips, useful articles, and important insights for people transitioning from an in-office environment to an athome setting for the first time. We also heard story after UNICO Group also offered story of construction education pertinent to the companies donating COVID-19 crisis by organizing N95 masks to support. a webinar hosted by ThinkHR addressing the most common HR questions and concerns surrounding COVID-19. To further serve the community, UNICO hosted an additional webinar on “Compensability of the Coronavirus and Related Employment Considerations.” These resources provided a steadying stream of clarity and sound information during a time when many people were overwhelmed with fearful and less-than-helpful messages.

ActionCOACH offered several online opportunities to assist business owners working through the crisis, including a 10-part video series titled “Business Survival Kit” and a free webinar titled “Plan, Don’t Panic” that offered a 5-point plan to give business owners some stability in formulating a new game plan.

North Risk Partners shared a resource that addresses a variety of needs and issues surrounding COVID-19. The COVID-19 Resource Center, powered by Zywave, contains resources such as compliance guides and employee communication templates developed by HR and legal experts, continually updated as the COVID-19 situation changes. North Risk Partners also has and will continue to offer client webinars on the updates during this time. These webinars have included topics such as “Claim Your COVID-19 Financial Relief,” “COVID-19 Law Exemptions & More,” and “COVID-19 Employer Q&As.” An Improved Approach to Health and Life As we press on toward what we hope is the closing of a difficult period in history, it would benefit us to make a record of where we’ve been and what we’ve learned from all of this. We hope to soon see people returning to normal life—embracing friends and holding social gatherings, taking vacations, enjoying dinner at favorite restaurants, and shopping at favorite stores. While we long for this return of life as we knew it, we also hope we won’t discard all of the changes we’ve made in recent weeks.

We aren’t finished with this crisis just yet, and care is still needed in our approach to health and life. Will we ever take for granted again the ability to breathe clean, virus-free air? We hope not. Even as the virus continues to slow in the community, there are things we can do to improve the quality of our air today. BELFOR Property Restoration recently shared information on the surface decontamination services they offer.

Using wiping methods and small, portable sprayers filled with a hospitalgrade solution that kills 99.99% of pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, and leaving no harmful residue, BELFOR’s services can return your office or home to a virus-free state.

Will we ever forget the panic that ensued in grocery stores as people cleared out stocks of toilet paper and bottled water? Again, we hope not. We hope that we can all learn from these experiences and make wise choices during crisis-free times so we don’t panic when troubles do come. Stock your pantries and your supplies little by little, all along the way, so you are always prepared. Opt for services that provide you a consistent supply of clean, good-tasting water through businesses such as Aqua Systems, rather than stocking up on bottled water and adding to landfills—and leave the bottled water for people who really need it.

Healthy practices and stress management should become a part of our everyday routines, if they aren’t already.

Living through the COVID-19 crisis has affected all of us in difficult ways.

Even so, the difficulties have opened doors for us to appreciate the good things we still have and to make improved choices for tomorrow so we live better lives in the future. Let’s not forget the lessons we’ve learned!

MAY 2020 Strictly Business

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

In light of the coronavirus outbreak, a lot of Americans are stocking up on supplies and going into quarantine.

Among the items that are being cleared out of grocery stores, such as hand sanitizer and toilet paper, is bottled water. Even though the pandemic is extremely unlikely to affect the availability of drinking water in the U.S., people are still hyper aware of the health, safety, and accessibility of their lifestyle practices. Even before the term “COVID-19” was on everyone’s lips, the consumption of bottled water worldwide was on the rise.

FILTERED WATER VS. BOTTLED WATER

Bottled water definitely appears to be the better option at first glance. Nicely packaged and sealed, it certainly looks sterile and safe. However, this is not necessarily the case. In fact, according to a report by World Wildlife Fund International, “there are more standards regulating tap water in the United States than those applied to the bottled water industry.” Plus, even if the source of the bottled water is clean and safe, remember that the water in question is being bottled in plastic.

There are some alarming facts about the environmental impact of bottled water. For example, bottles used to package water take over 1,000 years to bio-degrade and, if incinerated, they produce toxic fumes. It is estimated that over 80% of all single-use water bottles used in the U.S. simply become “litter.” In addition, it is estimated that about three liters of water is used to package one liter of bottled water, meaning water is being wasted in the process. (Source: ValleyWater.org) Many people might consider recycling to be a solution, but there is still the energy required to manufacture plastic water bottles to be considered. According to The Pacific Institute, the creation of one ton of PET plastic, which is made into water bottles, releases three tons of CO2 into the atmosphere.

Improve the quality of your life by improving the quality of your water.

This is why filtered water proves to be the superior option in most cases. The benefits of filtered water aren’t limited to just the person drinking it—water filtration can help improve the entire ecosystem. Plus, the cost of bottled water can be a lot more expensive than having a filtered water system installed in your home or office….so it makes economical sense as well!

In addition to having a variety of filtration systems available, Aqua Systems wants to help you spend your precious leisure time on leisure. Some companies are reluctant to give you a price on water treatment equipment unless they come to your home for a 60- or 90-minute sales presentation. Aqua Systems offers clear and simple pricing which you can get on their website, over the phone, or in their store. The low pressure sales process is why 9 out of 10 people who talk with them do business with them.

So, instead of spending your hard-earned money on bottled water, contact Aqua Systems and invest in a filtration system that is healthier for you and the environment.

®

ilovemywater.com Aqua Systems can improve the quality of your life by improving the quality of your water. They offer a low-pressure sales experience, competitive pricing, industry-leading warranty and a 90 day money-back guarantee.

Learn more online at www.ilovemywater.com or call (402) 204-5256.

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#PrintProudDigitalSmart