Strictly Business Omaha - July 2020

STRICTLYBUSINESSOMAHA.COM

OMAHA • JULY 2020 Indoor Air Quality

Access Control Video

Ligh�ng Control

Parking Control

Climate Control Smart Analy�cs

The Leader in Building Technology Solu�ons

RIVER CITY SIX

IN THIS ISSUE

We Make Buildings SMARTER • Residential Remodel • Supporting Nonprofits CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS • DGMD Medical - Antidote Lounge • Langer Electric • Morton Buildings

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EVAN WELCH Sandhills Global

ANGELA CHICAS Centris Federal Credit Union

LISA GILL TOSSIBLES

KAYLA LEDDY Clearwater Counseling

JASON KUSLER Control Depot

KELLIE SILLIK Bath Fitter

AGO

Strictly Business Magazine PO BOX 57397, Lincoln, NE 68505

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DOCSIS 3.0 or higher modem may be required, unless indicated. See www.cox.com/internetdisclosures for complete Cox Internet Disclosures. Services are not available in all areas. Discounts can’t be combined or added with other promotions nor applied to any other Cox account. 30-day satisfaction guarantee limited to refund of standard installation/activation fees and the first month’s recurring service and equipment fees (and equipment purchase fees if purchased from Cox) for the newly subscribed services only. Excludes all other costs and charges. Refund must be claimed within 30 days of service activation. Other restrictions apply. © 2020 Cox Communications Inc. All rights reserved.

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Omaha 402.558.7989 | mcgillrestoration.com | Lincoln 402.438.4110

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Welcome to Antidote Lounge.

IV Therapy designed to proactively approach general health, wellness, and recovery.

Antidote Lounge provides intravenous (IV) fluids, vitamins, and antioxidants to help you feel your best. It is an easy and effective way to get nutrients directly into your system without them having to be absorbed through the digestive system.

At Antidote Lounge, each and every treatment begins with a consultation so Dr. Daniel or Sabrina Gross and their team can learn how you’ve been feeling lately and what you have going on in your life. They can then create a custom bag to suit your specific needs. Some treatments may include Vitamin C, B12, magnesium, calcium, antioxidants, or other nutrients depending on the client’s preferences.

An IV Treatment at Antidote Lounge lasts approximately 45 minutes. Comfortable chairs and blankets are provided, so you are both relaxed and comfortable during your treatment. There is no downtime associated with IV therapy so you can head straight back to your daily life immediately after the appointment. Find your antidote...

Recovery

Liquid Sunshine

This IV treatment is soothing, brings hydration, and relief.

It is primarily used for treating hangovers, dehydration, and headaches.

Feeling a little off? Daily stress and depression disrupting your life? Liquid Sunshine is a warm ray of sun on a cold, dark day. Stability is the key to maintaining positivity.

Advanced Hydration

Showtime

The “New Year New Me” for your health with electrolytes, vitamins, and trace minerals. This is for the health conscious looking to reset. This cleanse provides the ideal solution to promote systemic restoration, and can be used to treat headaches, fatigue, lethargy, dehydration, and dizziness.

Showtime is geared towards those who need that extra energy boost for when the rubber meets the road. Whether it’s an important deadline for work or a major event that demands your best, this IV treatment is your new best friend.

It promotes relief for work deadlines, big events, and will counter lack of sleep.

Gimme Shelter

Athletic Performance

It starts as some minor cough and next thing you know, you’re down for the count. Gimme Shelter is your first line of defense against life’s ailments. This treatment is a great immunity booster during flu season.

Need a power up? Athletic Performance is that additional boost you need to perform your best. Whether it’s an upcoming marathon or an MMA tournament, you won’t be coming up short.

Cleanse

Athletic Recovery

This IV treatment is for diet and detox effects. It helps with digestive restoration, making you feel clean and healthy from the inside out.

Athletic Recovery is a treat for your sore, tired muscles after a long session. The perfect solution for muscle recovery and rebuilding.

Antidote Lounge is located just west of the Old Market in downtown Omaha. They offer IV Treatments Monday through Friday and are available by appointment on Saturday and Sunday.

1501 Jackson Street | antidotelounge.com | 402.999.2329 #PrintProudDigitalSmart

JULY 2020 Strictly Business

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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

Celebrating 27 Years of Strictly Business July is a special month because it marks the anniversary of both Strictly Business and the United States of America, and we don’t have any problem stealing a little bit of the firework thunder from Fourth of July celebrations! The magazine has now been in Lincoln for 27 years and 13 years in Omaha, and that really is something to make noise about. Twenty-seven years of partnering with local businesses, promoting local businesses, and helping local businesses grow—there is much to be proud of and thankful for.

We have always operated by the saying, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know...and who knows you!” As you flip through Strictly Business, it’s clear to see the importance we put on branding company names and people’s faces. Running an ad is one thing, giving a deeper look into a business/organization and the people who run it is another—and we do this through all of the free, value-added editorial we offer to our clients. By sharing our content in print, online, and on social media, we’ve built a reputation in the Omaha and Lincoln communities as a strong multimedia marketing tool and trusted source of relevant business news and information.

individuals we feature and tell them you saw them in Strictly Business. You might just be introducing yourself to a new client for your own business!

Shayne and I are also very proud of our awesome team, which continues to grow and evolve. Most recently, we added Diane Gumaer to the team as our copywriter. I have to remind myself that she just came on board because it feels like she’s been here all along—and that just speaks to how well she fits our culture and the role she is in. Diane works closely with our editor, Hannah Hundley, who celebrated her two-year anniversary with Strictly Business back in February. Along with our intern Kadi Carlton, the three make up the writing force of the magazine. On the design end, our talented art director, Katherine Crawford, works her magic every month with the help of our graphic design intern, Julia Everston. These women are an inspiration to me as I continue to lead the sales force for both Omaha and Lincoln publications.

Pictured (L-R): Kadi Carleton, Katherine Crawford, Hannah

While sales efforts were put on a brief pause (and are still a little shaky), our team has been working diligently to support the businesses and organizations that we were already partnered with. I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again, it’s far better to change your message to your audience than it is to have no message at all, which is why advertising during a crisis remains just as crucial as ever.

Our clients are at the center of everything Hundley, Paige Zutavern, Diane Gumaer, and Julia As proud Americans—living in one nation we do, and we dedicate every day to Evertson. Photo by Monica Sempek Photography, LLC. under God—Shayne and I are thankful for earning their trust in us as an advertising the opportunity to do business in Omaha partner. We have over 50 clients who have been with us for more than and Lincoln, and we can’t say thank you enough to our clients, readers, 10 years and even one who has been advertising for the full 27 years. and all of the current and past staff members who make Strictly Business As business owners, this is something Shayne and I are very proud of. possible. We hope everyone has a safe and happy Fourth of July!

We’d also like to thank our readers for their continued support, not only Let Strictly Business help you lock in your status as of Strictly Business itself but of the businesses we feature. It is such a good THE EXPERT in your industry, utilizing print, the internet, and social feeling to hear about a connection or partnership forming because of media. Find out how by contacting Paige at (402) 466-3330. the magazine. I invite you to take time to reach out to the businesses and

CONTENTS NEWS

4 Business 21 Personnel

24 Nonprofit 32 Health

SPOTLIGHTS

1 DGMD Medical - Antidote Lounge 13 Langer Electric 39 Morton Buildings

COLUMN

20 Outlook Nebraska

FEATURE STORIES

34 Residential Remodel 40 Supporting Nonprofits 2 Strictly Business JULY 2020

Hannah

Diane

Katherine

PRODUCTION TEAM: Editor/Operations Hannah Hundley - Editor@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Copywriter Diane Gumaer - 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

We Make Buildings SMARTER OMAHA • JULY 2020

STRICTLYBUSINESSOMAHA.COM

TM

Indoor Air Quality

Access Control

Lighting Control

Video Parking Control

Climate Control Smart Analytics

Engineered Controls: The Leader in Building Technology Solu�ons

The Leader in Building Technology Solutions

As a leading building control technology contractor in Nebraska and Iowa, Engineered Controls’ goal is to provide customers with products and services to create efficient, safe, and comfortable building environments.

Established in 1994, Engineered Controls offers a complete turnkey building control solution including system design, new construction and owner-direct retrofit sales, installation, repair service, and preventive maintenance work for smart buildings. In their 26 years of operation, Engineered Controls has provided innovative and cost-effective building control solutions to over 3,000 satisfied customers.

With offices in Omaha and Lincoln, today Engineered Controls employs over 100 people throughout Nebraska and Iowa and their employees collectively represent over 850 years of industry experience. When combined with their hands-on experience, this ensures that their clients receive the most cost-effective and professional service. They are a fully licensed electrical contracting firm in Nebraska and Iowa with journeyman and apprentice electricians on staff.

As an Authorized Control Integrator contractor for Honeywell, Inc., Engineered Controls provides a very valuable function in bridging the gap between mega technology companies like Honeywell and their thousands of commercial customers who use Honeywell building technology products every day. The team offers a wide range of products and services in the areas of advanced HVAC building controls, building automation systems, • Residential Remodel • Supporting Nonprofits Client SpotlightS • DGMD Medical - Antidote Lounge • Langer Electric • Morton Buildings

RIVER CITY SIX

hIIss Issue In ThI

We Make Buildings SMARTE R

EVAN WELCH Sandhills Global

KAYLA LEDDY Clearwater Counseling

Centris Federal Credit Union

JASON KUSLER Control Depot

LISA GILL TOSSIBLES

KELLIE SILLIK Bath Fitter

facility system integration, energy management, lighting systems, energy metering systems, gas detection and refrigerant monitoring systems, intrusion detection, video surveillance, and access control systems and parking management systems.

The team’s experience in building control technologies extends across a wide spectrum of facility types including commercial office, health care, industrial, government and military, hotels, museums, sports and entertainment, educational, and public buildings.

For the past 26 years, Engineered Controls has consistently ranked in the top three of Honeywell’s Elite ACI Direct club of advanced building automation contractors. This award is presented annually to only 10 of the top contractors in the nation and its designation is based on a dozen rigorous criteria including reputation in the marketplace, outstanding service to customers, and expert technical knowledge on staff. Additionally, Engineered Controls has been honored to receive Honeywell’s National Contractor of the Year award on four different occasions.

At Engineered Controls, their goal is to build strong and lasting relationships with their customers by providing value and experience that is unparalleled in the industry. They strive to excel in all aspects of their business, offering quality services in a timely manner but at affordable rates. Whether your needs are a simple component repair or a fully integrated building automation system, Engineered Controls is ready to provide you the building control technologies and support you need.

For more information about how Engineered Controls may be of personal service to you, please visit the website, call, or stop by the Omaha or Lincoln locations.

AGO

Strictly Business Magazine PO BOX 57397, Lincoln, NE 68505

Creating efficient, safe, and comfortable building environments.

www.engineeredcontrols.com · Omaha 402.339.1300 · Lincoln 402.434.2110

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

www.StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com JULY 2020 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS

MCF 2020 Golf

Tournament Monday, August 17 | 12 PM Platteview Golf Club 4215 Platteview Rd | Bellevue, NE Registration/Check-in begins at 11 a.m.

Each foursome will compete in a scramble format.

There will be two flight winners and runners up.

Lunch and two beverage tickets will be provided to each registered golfer.

Each golfer will get two chances to win a $250 gift card in a putting contest.

Ambius Shows Appreciation for Frontline Workers Through Hometown Heroes Program Ambius colleagues from across the United States and Canada, including Omaha, took to their communities during the last few weeks to give back to the frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Deemed Hometown Heroes, the frontline workers included healthcare professionals, senior-care facility workers, and first responders. More than 108 Ambius teams and districts participated in the Hometown Heroes program, choosing organizations in their own communities to say thank you to. The teams developed care packages, some of which included lunch for staff, plants, cookies, and homemade cards from colleagues’ children.

Ambius District Manager Tiffany Falconer led her team in Omaha to give back to the community and several organizations. The team provided a mix of succulents and ponytail palms in festive containers, as well as delivering cookies to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, the Bellevue Fire Department, the Urology Cancer Center and Children’s Physicians, Mission Village, as a thank you for their hard work and effort during the pandemic. All told, Ambius teams across the country reached more than 8,100 people on the front lines, and Falconer said she was honored to be part of the Hometown Heroes program and proud of the efforts of her Omaha team.

Ambius services include live and artificial indoor and outdoor plant displays for businesses, complete office-plant services, ambient scenting, commercial holiday decorations, green wall design, installation and maintenance, and more. Learn more at www.ambius. com or by calling (402) 999-4825.

Proceeds to Benefit: • Cass County CASA • Sarpy County CASA • Lift Up Sarpy • Fire and Rescue Departments/Districts in Sarpy and Cass counties

Clearwater Counseling Celebrates One Year Providing Mental Health Services in Omaha Clearwater Counseling, PC is celebrating the one-year anniversary of its Omaha location, providing mental health diagnoses through practices that promote growth, development, and wellbeing to enhance clients’ quality of life.

Since expanding its practice from Grand Island to a second location in Omaha, Clearwater Counseling has formed new community partnerships to fill the growing need for mental health services throughout Nebraska. The private practice also has continually developed its services to serve clients better. CEO and Co-owner Kayla Leddy, MS, LIMHP, LIPC, CA, said they look forward to serving the Omaha metro community for years to come.

“This past year has presented exciting changes and growth for our team,” Leddy said, “but one thing that will always remain the same is our commitment to treat mental health diagnoses and promote mental health awareness.”

217 N Jefferson St. | Papillion, NE 68046 402-991-8027 | MidlandsCommunity.org Events@MidlandsCommunity.org Register online at:

midlandscommunity.org/mcf-2020-golf-tournament/ 4

Strictly Business JULY 2020

Clearwater Counseling, PC is a private practice that offers mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults in the Grand Island and Omaha areas. They work with clients who are struggling with a variety of mental health diagnoses, including depression, relationship issues, grief / loss / trauma, addiction and recovery, codependency, anxiety and phobias, parenting problems, sexual abuse and incest, physical abuse and violence, and more. To learn more about staff, services, or resources, visit www.clearwatercounselingpc.org. To schedule an appointment or for more information about mental health services, call (308) 210-8487 or email info@clearwatercounselingne.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Center Sphere Launches Two New Initiatives to Create Opportunities for Network Members

NAWIC Omaha Chapter Goes Virtual for 2020 In the Rough Golf Tournament

As the world started to reopen and businesses began to regain focus in June, Center Sphere launched two new initiatives to create opportunities for their members to engage, learn, and build meaningful relationships.

First, Center Sphere’s Network inaugurated their first Industry Collaborative Groups, giving members new platforms to connect with other industry experts across the country to share challenges and ideas and grow together.

The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Greater Omaha Chapter #116 announced that their 2020 golf fundraiser will be virtual, given remaining coronavirus pandemic restrictions on social gatherings.

Tagged as “2020 In the Rough—A Virtual Golf Fundraiser,” the annual tournament raises money for trade-related scholarships, apprenticeship training, and other industry activities.

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Entrepreneur Judith Ngozi Obodougo had a grand opening for her new business in Omaha—God’s Got Your Back, LLC— two days before the national COVID-19 quarantine was enforced. That day might not have turned out the way she had hoped or planned, but it was a bit fortuitous considering what was to follow in the weeks to come. That’s because she produces shirts with “God’s Got Your Back” messages on them, which seemed to be perfectly timed for the days ahead.

Judith is a single mother, who authored two books about navigating difficult paths in life as she had from the time she was a child in Nigeria through living today in Omaha, by way of Chicago. Her book God’s Got Your Back was the launching pad for her business of the same name, on the tenet that people can achieve anything in life if they know, first and foremost, to trust in God. In addition to her books, also including Mom is Home, God’s Got Your Back offers a selection of t-shirts, hoodies, and golf shirts with her business name—her message—on them.

The list of organizations and causes to which Judith is dedicated is long, including being the founder and president of the nonprofit Calistus Multiple Myeloma Foundation, which she created in memory of her father after he died from Multiple Myeloma cancer in 2016. She is also a member of the Young Alumni Student Academy at the University of Nebraska, Omaha, the National Council of Negro Women Omaha Section, plus running a talk show called The Judy Show on KPAO Omaha Community TV, selling Paparazzi jewelry, Arbonne, and AVON, writing a blog about motherhood, and working as a COVID-19 contract tracer for Douglas County. The message remains the same with everything she does: God’s Got Your Back.

For more information about God’s Got Your Back, LLC, visit www. ngozitowneagle.com or contact Judith at (402) 686-3559. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

ION CT

God’s Got Your Back Weathers Quarantine Times with Powerful Message of Fortitude

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Center Sphere is an established network of business professionals whose mission is to share referrals, ideas, and resources through genuine relationships. The Omaha Network is currently made up of nearly 30 chapters. For more information about Center Sphere or to inquire about attending a complimentary meeting or event, visit www.CenterSphere.com or connect with Omaha Area Director Lona Anderson at LonaAnderson@CenterSphere.com or (402) 650-5380.

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Second, Center Sphere launched its newest Academy offering, ELEVATE: Yourself. Your Relationships. Your Business. This personaldevelopment course was created specifically for members and focuses on clarity, presence, trust, and adding value, influence, and connection. This high-level course is available at no additional cost to members of the Center Sphere Network and is the first of many to be offered through Center Sphere Academy.

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In the Rough sponsorship opportunities will be available until September 30, and the tournament will include an industry happy hour with raffles and hole prizes at a later date, following lifting of local social-distancing restrictions. Supported by sponsorships for the golf tournament, The Greater Omaha Chapter of NAWIC offers scholarships to men and women pursuing careers in the construction industry via a college education or a trade apprenticeship program.

The National Association of Women in Construction is an international organization of women working in and around the construction industry. Their core purpose is to enhance the success of women in the industry through education, networking, and leadership opportunities.

Watch for In the Rough details on the NAWIC website at www. nawicomaha.com and on their Facebook page (@nawicomaha).

Business Ethics Alliance Addresses Selling and Fundraising During a National Pandemic The Business Ethics Alliance recently addressed the ethical questions about selling and fundraising during a national pandemic to help business owners and nonprofit organizations make associated decisions. In an interview with metroTV’s Andee Hoig, former Business Ethics Alliance Executive Director Beverly Kracher, Ph.D. and current Education Director Eve McLain said transparency about your cause and maintenance of your reputation are crucial considerations. That means putting an ethical lens on the questions you’re asking yourself, with an eye toward maintaining your reputation long-term.

Because business is vital to the Omaha community and the American community, it is appropriate for business owners to do all they can ethically to keep their businesses going. Some companies will not make it through the pandemic challenges, and others are hustling to reimagine their businesses to maintain relevancy and will look different on the other side.

“The need for transparency extends beyond this situation,” Eve said.

“The people making decisions to donate or buy from you are adults.

Acting ethically means you are not tricking them into giving a donation or buying what you’re selling. You may need to be vulnerable and go in hat-in-hand and say to the community that while we know we might not be top-of-mind for you right now, we need your help now if we’re going to come through on the other side.”

In the end, Eve said, it is ethical to sell right now, and it is ethical to fundraise right now. “Just be sure you can hold your head high on the other side.”

The Business Ethics Alliance is the nation’s leading nonprofit dedicated to city-level, business-ethics education. They build leadership, strengthen organizations, and elevate Greater Omaha through positive, practical business ethics. Learn more online at www. businessethicsalliance.org or by calling (402) 280-2235.

JULY 2020 Strictly Business 5

BUSINESS NEWS Toastmasters District 24 is Speaking Up Through Online Club Meetings

CharterWest Bank Mortgage Center Develops New App, CharterGo Home Loan

Resilient Toastmasters District 24 members are stepping up to help each other stay connected via online platforms that are working like a charm. In the current social-distancing era, the club’s online meetings are giving people a place to practice speaking, teaching them how to set up a place in their home spaces that offer proper lighting and sound, and helping members maintain their strong sense of community, even when physically distanced.

Recently, CharterWest Bank Mortgage Center released their newest app—CharterGo Home Loan. Whether you are just starting to look for your first home or a current homeowner looking to upgrade or downsize, CharterWest has created an app that can help all their clients regardless of their previous experience. The CharterGo app is a tool to simplify the home buying and lending process.

With 49 clubs now open to digital guests and visitors, the group continues to serve as a great place for members to grow communication and leadership skills. Outstanding Toastmasters members are stepping up to help others connect online, too. Volunteers have donated their Pro Zoom accounts, helped train others to use Zoom, and encouraged members to give online meetings a try. Toastmasters also hosts a Pro Zoom account that any club can reserve for meetings, but only one at a time.

In the app, you can calculate mortgage options. If you are still trying to figure out what you can afford or wondering what your mortgage payments will be, use the mortgage calculator in the app to try different scenarios. In addition, users can scan encrypted paperwork from the app, which makes sending documents as easy as scanning with the app and pressing send.

Plus, it’s encrypted and completely secure. Another feature is the ability to apply or get pre-qualified for a loan on your phone—you can simply click a button in the app and fill out an application from anywhere. Then, you can check the My Loan button in the CharterGo Home Loan app to see where your loan is at in the process.

Toastmasters International is a worldwide nonprofit educational organization that 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 to Council Bluffs. Find some online clubs at www.meetup.com/District-24-Toastmasters-Meetup or search for clubs at www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club to learn how you can get connected! Learn more about Toastmasters District 24 at www.d24tm. org or on Facebook (@D24TM).

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Strictly Business JULY 2020

CharterWest Bank Mortgage Center is committed to providing their clients with the most up-to-date resources in finance management. Go to charterwest.com to learn more.

#PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Insurance Advisors Offers New Free Medicare Prep Kit for Seniors Transitioning Omaha Insurance Advisors Owner Lisa Wilsey announced a new free Medicare Prep Kit for individuals who are 65+ and preparing to retire from their jobs. The kits will include everything that you need to make your transition to Medicare. Lisa will give you the answers to the most frequently asked questions about getting Medicare benefits, and she can make wading through the paperwork to file for them a breeze.

“Filing for Medicare can be an overwhelming experience for even the most astute and technologically minded individuals out there,” Lisa said. “We keep up with this information every day, and we want to do everything in our power to help people navigate the process and feel comfortable that they’ve crossed all their t’s and dotted all their i’s.”

Insurance Advisors works directly with anyone interested in accessing Medicare Advantage, Medicare supplements, D plans, Medicare Part B enrollment, Affordable Care coverage, life insurance, dental insurance, cancer plans, spend-downs, Medicaid support, and more. For more information about Insurance Advisors in Omaha or to order your free Medicare Prep Kit, contact Lisa Wilsey at (402) 955-9233.

Former Acadian Grill Dundee Becomes LUX Lounge in Dundee, Featuring Live Music

Celebrating one year in Omaha!

We look forward to many more years of serving you!

Fashion, Health, and Wellness Shop

You’ll feel good and look right!

402-686-3559 10154 Maple St. | Omaha, NE

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

Getzschman Heating Introduces New Fleet for Rapid Response Heating and Air Repair Getzschman Heating recently unveiled the addition of a new SUV and two service vans to their fleet. These vehicles will enable the Getzschman team to continue providing quick service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Showcasing its G-Force branding, the additions are indicative of the company’s continued growth after 60 years in Omaha.

Since 1960, Getzschman has built their reputation on hard work, honest prices, and superior customer service. They are proud to be technicians that people entrust with keys to their homes and consistently rely upon for dependable service, and they take pride in honoring their name with every interaction. What’s more, they put their 100% satisfaction guarantee in writing because they aren’t happy until you are!

Acadian Grill Dundee at 5018 Underwood Ave. will open back up this month as the LUX Lounge in Dundee and will serve up food and live entertainment, featuring local and regional musicians, plus Karaoke and a weekly comedy night. Owner Dan O’Brien will continue to operate the Acadian Grille located in Miracle Hills, but he wanted to mix things up in Dundee to bring a new live-music venue to town.

To learn more about Getzschman Heating, visit www.getzschman. com or call (402) 721-630 to communicate with a Getzschman team member directly.

Music will be mostly jazz with some blues, plus an acoustic jam every Sunday. Tuesday nights will be dedicated to comedy, Wednesdays to Karaoke, and Thursdays through Saturdays to live music. A full food and bar menu will be available, including signature drinks like the Sazerac-Late 1830s with absinthe, rich simple syrup, Peychaud’s Bitters, and rye whiskey, as well as a Ramos Gin Fizz-1888, a Vieux Carre’-Mid 1930s, and a Hurricane-1940, among others. Food served will include fresh-cut fries in truffle, rosemary, and Cajun varieties, nachos featuring smoked salmon; marinated and lightly smoked chicken, or Cajun, Tasso and holy trinity. You can also get flatbread with smoked salmon, brisket, or veggie toppings, specialty wings, Boudin balls, cheese boards, crab cakes, lettuce wraps, and Brussels sprouts. A variety of sweet desserts will include crème brule, banana fosters, bread pudding, and more.

Anchor Roofing recently celebrated their one-year business anniversary! Even though Anchor Roofing was officially founded in March of 2019, it all began far before that with a kid in college who simply had an eagerness to learn and a good work ethic. From there, founder Michael Meyer started roofing on the side to help make ends meet for his young family. Now, his company has already grown to employ over a dozen professionals to service the Omaha and Lincoln areas.

LUX Lounge in Dundee will be open from 1 to 6 p.m. on Sundays; closed on Mondays; 3:30 to 11 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays; and 3:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Happy Hour will be from 3:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. For more information, call the lounge at (402) 991-1552 or go to the Facebook page.. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Anchor Roofing Celebrates One Year

From insurance claims to labor to finishing touches, Anchor Roofing aims to make all services as stress free as possible. They provide roofing and siding services as well as storm damage restoration.

Their team brings experience, specialized knowledge, and the values of doing the right thing regardless of who is or isn’t watching to every job. Anchor Roofing is family owned, locally operated, and Nebraska strong. All clients can rest assured that this business is personal to the Anchor team. To learn more, go to anchorroofing.com. Contact them today at (402) 671-7452 / info@anchorroofing.com for a free, no-obligation inspection.

JULY 2020 Strictly Business 7

BUSINESS NEWS Honeyman Rent-All Scoops up Soft Serve Ice Cream Rental for National Ice Cream Month

CFO Systems Provides Leadership for Changing Business Environments Post-COVID

With COVID restrictions slowly lightening up, Honeyman RentAll is ready to help you get your first gathering of the summer underway—even if you still have to start with a small one. You could kick things off by celebrating National Ice Cream Month with your closest friends or your family and renting a soft-serve ice-cream machine at an affordable rate. Or you could rent anything from Honeyman’s extensive line of outdoor lawn-care tools and equipment you need to get your yard in order for guests. Whatever your rental needs, you’re going to find it all from the company’s party rentals and equipment rentals locations in Omaha.

As companies brace for the ripple effects of signifi cant changes in the way business is conducted and the workforce is recruited in the wake of COVID, CFO Systems, LLC is providing leadership to help individual businesses navigate through the near future, perhaps the next several years. CFO believes that strong leaders who embrace change now and reinvest in the long-term visions of their companies will be in better positions to catapult and drive economic growth.

For anything from intimate dinner parties to graduation celebrations or small wedding parties, Honeyman Rent-All offers everything from backdrops for photos or a selfie booth to audiovisual equipment for your entertainment, plus chairs, beverage servers, canopies, china, lighting, glassware, linens, games, bounce houses for the kids, margarita or slush machines, and so much more.

You name it, and they’ve probably got it available.

Check out all that Honeyman Rent-All has to offer online at www. honeymanrentall.com or by visiting either location. The Equipment Rentals division, 4423 84th St., can be reached at (402) 3316013 and the Party & Event Rentals division, 11226 Wright Circle, can be contacted at (402) 333-2882.

CFO’s human-resource directors have experience in everything from benchmarking employment data to designing competitive benefits and compensation packages, developing safety and other training programs, providing employee relations and coaching, ensuring compliance with labor laws, implementing systems and processes to simplify human-resource management, leading payroll and benefits, rightsizing organizations, and supporting recruiting and retention of employees, contractors, and volunteers.

CFO Systems, LLC is a nationwide company founded in 2005 to provide practical, experienced financial and human-resources leadership to middle-market companies. The firm was named on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies for four consecutive years. Headquartered in Omaha, CFO Systems serves clients from Florida to Washington and California to Connecticut, both onsite and remotely. For more information, visit www.cfosystemsllc.com or call (402) 884-0066.

Our team is so overjoyed to have everyone back in the salon! We’re happy to welcome you all to CHD for some much needed pampering.

Thank you all for being so patient and loyal.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

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BUSINESS NEWS Lincoln Federal Savings Bank Will Open New Corporate Office Location in Lincoln July 27 Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is proud to announce the opening of their new corporate office, at 8400 Maddox Dr., right off of 84th and Van Dorn in Lincoln.

The new headquarters will open on July 27 and will house Lincoln Federal’s corporate employees, including loan services. For retail banking services, visit any of their other locations, including the Omaha location at 673 N 132nd St. The current corporate office at 1101 N St. in Lincoln will close permanently at 5 p.m. on July 23.

Operating solely in Nebraska, Lincoln Federal Savings Bank is a depositor-owned financial institution specializing in residential home loans, construction loans, home equity loan products, commercial real estate loans, and deposit services. Because there are no outside shareholders, Lincoln Federal can offer highly competitive rates to customers on loans and help increase housing in the community.

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Throughout the relocation, Lincoln Federal Savings Bank’s corporate phone number will remain unchanged at (402) 4741400. The phone number for the Omaha office is (402) 493-5599.

For more information, visit www.Lincolnfed.com.

House of Conundrum Reopens for SmallGroup Teambuilding Mystery Solvers

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

If you’re looking for a teambuilding exercise as you bring employees back together this summer, you’ll be happy to know that the House of Conundrum — Omaha’s Escape Room is open for fun, small-group mystery solvers. You and your group will be placed in a themed room of your choice for one hour, during which you must find hidden clues, decode messages, solve puzzles, and more to escape—and you can’t do it without coordinated teamwork. It’s a great way to bring your employees closer, build relationships, and learn about your team’s hidden talents!

House of Conundrum also makes for a lively and entertaining bonding exercise for groups of family or friends, or for special events, including birthday or wedding parties, church groups, and more. Skip the movies and take your family or friends on a challenging and unforgettable adventure instead. You can choose from rooms including The Final Frontier, Zombie Apocalypse, Knight in the Museum, The Bat Cave Conundrum, The Sherlock Solution, Rescuing the Revolution, Saving Lincoln, Tomb of Doom, and 20,000 Leaks Under the Sea. Success rates for solving the mysteries and freeing your team in the hour you’re given vary from 2% for Knight in the Museum, where rumor has it that there is a treasure that will make anyone wealthy, to 28% for Rescuing the Revolution, where you’ll take a trip back in time to aid our nation’s founders as you encounter a fellow revolutionary and discover whether he is friend or foe.

House of Conundrum — Omaha’s Escape Room is located at 2564 Leavenworth St. For more information or to make a reservation, call (402) 250-2300 or visit houseofconundrum.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

JULY 2020 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS Control Depot Partnership with Zonex Systems Adds New HVAC Product Line

MBCF/MBA Scholarship Golf Scramble Tees off September 21

Control Depot established a new partnership with Zonex Systems in June to offer the entire line of Zonex HVAC temperature-control zoning systems. Zonex is a leading manufacturer of HVAC control systems designed specifically fo r z o n i n g a p p l i c a t i o n s i n commercial buildings. Zonex develops efficient systems and reliable products that meet the expectations of an increasingly demanding market at a highly competitive price.

Control Depot is a building automation and controls distributor that serves Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and South Dakota. As a controls distributor, Control Depot sells and supports a wide selection of residential and commercial controls and components to contractors and building owners. This includes everything from a simple thermostat to a complete web-based building-automation system. Their goal is to build strong and lasting relationships with customers by providing value and experience that is unparalleled in the industry. Control Depot strives to excel in all aspects of their business, offering quality services in a timely manner, but at affordable rates. To learn more about Control Depot, visit www.controldepotinc.com or contact (402) 934-0078 / sales@ controldepotinc.com.

The annual Millard Business Community Foundation (MBCF)/Millard Business Association (MBA) Scholarship Scramble is on tap for September 21, with an 11 a.m. shotgun start at the Oak Hills Country Club.

The event is an opportunity for participants to help Millard area students with college expenses, with proceeds going to the MBCF, which provides six annual $1,000 scholarships to high-school seniors.

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Of course, the Scholarship Scramble also serves up a day of fun in the sun and a rewarding networking opportunity.

Become a sponsor, get a foursome rounded up, or sign up on your own to join a team so you don’t miss one of the most enjoyable days of the business year. The MBA also is looking for pin prizes and raffle prizes, so help out and get your company or organization the publicity it deserves during this exciting event.

The Millard Business Association aims to create environments for professionals to share and connect with each other in a way that adds value, creates opportunities, and is fun for all. Register for the Scholarship Scramble at www.millardbcf.org. For more information, contact Scholarship Scramble Committee Co-chairs Tony Pofahl at tpofahl@ workfitomaha.com or Ashley O’Neal at ashley@signitomaha.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS Lending Link Supports the Community with Free Tax Preparation Amidst COVID-19 Up until July 15, Lending Link will be offering free tax preparation to anyone in the Omaha community. They are also providing up-to-date information regarding stimulus checks and answering questions of how to move forward in these economically uncertain times. Lending Link is here for low- to moderateincome individuals and households with education, coaching, and affordable, alternative loans. Now more than ever, they are trying to protect the financially vulnerable from the perpetual cycle of debt and repayment.

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Lending Link’s vision is for Omaha to become a community where everyone has access to safe, affordable financial products and service as well as the knowledge to use them well. Their programs and services strive to teach basic financial and debt management, transition clients away from predatory lenders, and guide them to achieve long-term financial health. Many systemic and individual problems can cause difficult financial situations such as a lack of access to mainstream forms of credit, income inequality, banking industry changes, and more. No matter your situation, Lending Link is here to help. Their office is located at 4706 S 24th or you can learn more at lendinglinkomaha.org or call (402) 557-5965.

Greater Omaha Chamber’s July 30 Virtual HIRE Conference a Must for Business Owners The Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce is marketing the virtual HIRE Conference, slated for July 30, as a mustattend event for area business owners as they continue the comeback from COVID-19 and address common personnel questions. Those include: Are we going to hire? Who are we going to hire? How do we hire, onboard, and engage workers remotely? The conference has a challenge for the region’s human-resource professionals: instead of going back to the way it used to be, reboot the hiring process and move forward to the way it should be.

The current situation gives business owners an opportunity to create something that might be better, maybe more sane, and a bit more focused, rather than just doing it the ways they’ve done it for years and years, according to Bryan Johanson, COO of The Adler Group, a consulting and training company specializing in hiring-process reengineering, and also the keynote speaker for the 2020 HIRE Conference. His keynote is titled “Rebooting Hiring.”

Ben Gano, director of talent strategy for Enova Group and a HIRE Conference co-creator, said the conference has been a place for the most progressive Omaha recruiters and HR professionals to discuss the hottest talent strategies in each of the last five years. Though going virtual will make the conference different, other topics on the agenda include unconscious bias and recruitment; learning the signs of recruiter burn-out; compensation after COVID-19; and what you need to know about hiring veterans.

The Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce has more than 3,100 member business and is five-star-accredited by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in its mission to advocate for a strong business climate and member businesses. Learn more about the HIRE Conference and register at www.omahachamber.org/hire-conference. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Creative Hair Design Salon & Spa Reopens at 75% Occupancy, Three Daily Shifts Creative Hair Design Salon & Spa partially reopened on June 1, after being closed for 74 days due to COVID-19 restrictions. Practices at the salon are a little different, though, as the business restructured to operate in three daily shifts, seven days a week, to meet the needs of clients and keep everyone safe. The new three-shift schedule in the hair salon allows Creative Hair Design to accommodate as many clients as possible, while remaining within 75% occupancy guidelines. Blow drying resumed on July 1, but other spa services were not immediately made available, including the locker and steam rooms, and the showers. The company’s online booking portal was reactivated on June 1, with limited appointment availability.

With the partial opening, all Creative Hair Design & Spa clients must follow a number of guidelines, including having their temperature checked at the door; filling out a waiver stating that neither they nor any household members have shown any symptoms or tested positive for COVID-19, in addition to indicating their understanding of the risks and releasing the salon of any liability related to the coronavirus. No outside food or beverages are allowed, and none are available in the salon.

All clients and service providers are required to wear masks, too, and Creative Hair Design asks that people bring their own masks, though they do have some available for $1 apiece, and hand sanitizer is stationed throughout the salon. All clients are asked to arrive five minutes early. Stylists’ stations are six feet apart to adhere to social-distancing recommendation.

Creative Hair Design Salon & Spa is located at 12025 Pacific St. To book an appointment online, visit creativehairdesign.com. For more information, email info@creativehairdesign.com, or call (402) 330-5660.

JULY 2020 Strictly Business 11

BUSINESS NEWS Transworld Business Advisor MJ Cassner Brokers Sale of Edible Arrangements®

Better Business Bureau Addresses Red Flags of Identity Theft

MJ Cassner, senior business broker for Transworld Business Advisors, was thrilled to broker the sale of Edible Arrangements ® at 1036 S 74th Plaza off of Pacific St. in Omaha to Ratheesh Nair.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) knows that business ID theft is real, and they have addressed a couple red flags so owners can ensure they are protecting their company.

Running a business has so many moving components; it can be hard to keep track of everything. That is especially true in light of all that small businesses are having to do to stay afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although it may not be top of mind, you want to be sure you are doing all you can to protect your business’s reputation and take steps to prevent business identity theft.

Small- and medium-size businesses are also at risk, and not just big-name businesses. Criminals can steal a business’s identity by gaining access to financial or other sensitive information. They also have a variety of ways in, including hacking, malware, phishing emails, and swiping credit card information.

Businesses should be wary of these red flags of identity theft: • You receive a request to verify orders you didn’t place.

• You receive phone calls from someone trying to verify an address for your business that is not associated with your company or that you cannot confirm.

• You receive invoices for storage, shipping, or other services that you did not purchase.

• You are a victim of a phishing attempt or a business email compromise (BEC) scam.

For tips to protect your business from identity theft and more information to help you through the COVID-19 pandemic, turn to the Better Business Bureau by going online to bbb.org/smallbusiness.

The previous owners, Ali Henrichs and Donna Pletcher, first opened the shop in September of 2006. Ratheesh looks forward to continuing to help people Pictured (L-R): MJ Cassner, Ali in the local community celebrate all Henrichs, and Ratheesh Nair. kinds of occasions—big and small. The store reported a successful Mother’s Day season, and COVID-19 has only served to increase business since Edible Arrangements was already set up to provide deliveries. Ratheesh is also excited about a few new menu items, including smoothies, cheesecakes, and cookies.

Edible Arrangements® (www.ediblearrangements.com) fruit arrangements and gifts are always freshly-crafted using fruit that’s grown and picked to their Fruit Expert® standards. Edible Arrangements also has locations in Bellevue and Lincoln, operated under different ownership.

For over 40 years, Transworld Business Advisors has specialized in the sale of businesses and commercial real estate. Today, Transworld is a global network of brokers offering a turnkey solution for those that want to build a solid business and future for themselves while maintaining a balanced quality of life. To learn more about buying or selling a business with Transworld, visit www.tworld.com or contact MJ at (402) 413-1095 / mjcassner@tworld.com.

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Strictly Business JULY 2020

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Chris Langer, owner of Langer Electric, isn’t the type to just get the job done and move along. His team prides themselves on the relationship that they build with each of their customers. Chances are, a person will have more than one electrical need in their lifetime. Langer Electric wants to earn their business for life, and they will do so by providing quality work, competitive pricing, and convenient servicing, all while being quick and efficient.

Langer Electric, now in their fourth year of business, was recently named to the Better Business Bureau’s Honor Roll for Excellence in Customer Service. This was a significant accomplishment for the company as they make customer service their No. 1 priority.

Chris has over 15 years of electrical experience under his belt, and he is willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done right for his customers—even if that means throwing on a wetsuit and getting into 50-degree water to access the necessary wiring!

a restaurant remodel to trenching an underground line for electrical out to a new shop, Chris can do it all. Langer’s services include: • Repairs • Maintenance • Estimates • Fixture installation • Panel updates • Boat lift electrical • Marine electrical • Basement finishing • ... Anything electrical!

Langer Electric also installs security fixtures such as cameras, key fobs/card access, alarms, smart home technology such as SkyBell doorbells, and more. They look forward to giving you peace of mind.

Langer Electric’s work spans across the residential and commercial sectors. From overseeing the electrical work in

If you have electrical work that needs to be done in your home or business in Omaha, look no further than Langer Electric, a licensed, bonded, and insured electrical company that you can really trust. Give Chris a call! You might find that you’re really calling a friend... a friend who knows what he’s doing and isn’t going to cut any corners.

“I can’t express how much I am overwhelmed with gratitude and appreciation for each and every one of you who has given us the chance to prove ourselves time and time again. I have been through everything, it seems, to keep this dream alive. I left the company I was at for almost 10 years, put $1,300 on a credit card, and said this is make it or break it. I didn’t take any loans, didn’t use any investors...I took a bet on myself hoping everything would work out. I built Langer Electric with my own hands and now the hands of my fellow employees, including my beautiful wife BreeAnn who handles the HR. She has been the true hero behind the scenes with the long stressful days I endure. Thank you, thank you, thank you!” - Chris Langer, owner

“We hired Chris Langer from Langer Electric to come out and run electricity through four levels on a split-level home so we could have an electric stove instead of gas.

Chris was the ONLY electrician who not only said he could do it but that it would look nice, be up to code, and noninvasive. Everyone else (4 other electricians) said they would have to tear out walls and ceilings.

Thank goodness for Langer Electric!” - Mindi H.

Where other electricians say it can’t be done, Chris says it can. Not only that, he says it can be done in a way that is noninvasive and up-to-code.

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JULY 2020 Strictly Business

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Strictly Business JULY 2020

EVAN

Evan Welch

SANDHILLS GLOBAL Meet Evan Welch, director of new product sales at Sandhills Global and manager of AuctionTime.com.

Tell us a little about your business. Sandhills Global’s business is simply to bring buyer and seller together, whether that be through a retail, wholesale, or auction channel. With that fundamental focus in mind, we have created an array of different products to help enable the process of buying and selling and make it as efficient as possible. Our focus is in the construction equipment, farm equipment, aircraft, recreational vehicle, and over the road truck and trailer industries, but our depth in those extends out to many different niches within each market. For example, we have a product in the construction industry specifically geared toward the crane market called CraneTrader.com.

How did you get started in the business? - I started as a sales intern back in 2005 for our construction magazine and website, MachineryTrader.com.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - The development of our auction products, specifically AuctionTime.com, was the biggest challenge I’ve faced professionally. The product itself took years to get off the ground and wouldn’t have been possible without the effort of the entire team. From sales to IT, the amount of man hours and effort put into the product is almost unimaginable when you look back at it.

Tell us a little about your family. - My wife Lacey and I met at Sandhills, actually. We both started as sales interns for MachineryTrader.com on the same day. She now stays at home with our three kids, Camden (10), Ava (7), and Cade (3).

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - We are a competitive family so, typically, it’s something around sports. Whether that be going to sporting events for my kids or playing sports casually, that’s how most of my free time is spent.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “It’s never as good as it seems, and it’s never as bad as it seems.” I think it just keeps everything in perspective. Don’t ever think you are at the top or untouchable because you’re not, and you have to try to get better every day. Conversely, when things are going bad, they are probably much worse in your head than they are in reality.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Positive. If you keep a positive attitude, good things will happen.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? My favorite book is The Presidents Club: Inside the World’s Most Exclusive Fraternity by Michael Duffy and Nancy Gibbs. Each chapter is dedicated to the relationship between two different former Presidents. It’s fascinating to see how they interacted with each other and which ones had close relationships despite having differing opinions.

What is your favorite TV show? - I’m into crime shows so I would go with Mindhunter on Netflix.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - I’d have to go with M’s Pub. I don’t get there enough but every meal there has been great.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Ronald Reagan. Politics aside, he was so charismatic and was a true outsider when he came into politics.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 458-4627; evan@auctiontime.com; www.sandhills.com; www.auctiontime.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

ANGELA

Angela Chicas

CENTRIS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Meet Angela Chicas, marketing generalist at Centris Federal Credit Union.

Tell us a little about your business. Centris is a full-service financial institution providing the same products and services that a bank does. Centris definitely has their members in mind as their top priority and aligns them with the best services and products they need. We have been in operation since 1934 and pride ourselves on superior service and that decisions are made locally. Centris was actually started when the banks in town weren’t meeting the needs of the people, so seven workers at an Omaha telephone company started a credit union.

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2020AquaSystems_3_68x2_41.indd How did you get started in the business? - I started in the marketing field when I was a sophomore in college, working as a sales and promotions coordinator for a local Spanish radio station in Omaha called Radio Lobo 97.7 FM. I learned some essential marketing skills through that experience, such as the importance of adhering to brand standards, social media writing, and event planning. I later received an offer to work for NRG Media, a radio cluster in Omaha, which gave me the opportunity to learn the radio’s business aspect. At NRG, I also worked as an on-air talent personality on their Spanish radio station La Nueva 1020 AM and 99.5 FM. I hosted a four-hour show every Saturday for two years. Simultaneously, while working part-time with NRG Media, I accepted an offer with Centris as an intern in their marketing department. Towards the end of my internship, I was offered a permanent position. I accepted and have been with the company now for two and a half years.

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What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- My work in the radio business and at Centris. It was the springboard for my professional career and led me to where I am today. I learned and did many different things at the radio station, such as creating scripts, promotion, and content for my show.

I learned and observed from so many talented people who have years of experience in the industry. At Centris, I have achieved independence and trust from my team. Professionally, that is all I want—to know that the people I work with trust and rely on me to get a task or project done.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - My favorite quote comes from the movie The Pursuit of Happiness: “I’m the type of person who, if you ask me a question and I don’t know the answer, I’m gonna tell you that I don’t know...but, I bet you what, I know how to find the answer and I will find the answer.”

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I would have been an actress. In high school, I was a part of the International Thespian Society and was in a play and a musical. I absolutely loved it! Ever since I was little, I have loved to sing, dance, and interpret movie scenes to my family.

I once jokingly told my mom that someday I would be paid to just talk. It’s funny now, because it actually happened!

What is your favorite movie? - Father of the Bride and Father of the Bride 2.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Pitch. I love their pizza and especially their truffle fries! I definitely recommend this place.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Michelle Obama.

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If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 758-6500; achicas@centrisfcu.org; centrisfcu.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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TOSSIBLES Meet Lisa Gill, founder of TOSSIBLES. Tell us a little about your business. TOSSIBLES is a new innovation that ends commercial plumbing issues caused by flushing feminine products and cleansing wipes. TOSSIBLES are stylish, water-resistant, tear-resistant, earth-friendly envelopes that help women safely and securely dispose of tampons, pads, and wipes. They improve the hygiene protocol of commercial restrooms and plumbing systems while reducing debris entering water treatment facilities. The pilot program is ongoing right now, which provides local business owners a free dispenser of TOSSIBLES to experience the positive impacts firsthand. Feedback during the pilot program will help shape the final version.

How did you get started in the business? - It started because of a restroom sign! Commercial and workplace restrooms tend to hang “anti-flushing” signage for feminine products without providing a disposal tool. I was a frustrated consumer. The female bin or trash can did not address the gap of how to secure soiled hygienic items before discarding them. Open disposal was embarrassing, visually awkward, unsanitary, and personally messy. As a woman, it was easier to flush items regardless of the consequences. Therefore, I decided to create a solution. TOSSIBLES rewrites this experience by empowering businesses to protect their plumbing while providing a stylish, easy-to-use tool that women enjoy using.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - It is happening right now. Bringing a product to market for the first time feels like the Air Force analogy of “building the airplane while you’re flying it.” I am constantly learning new business skills and building relationships in an unfamiliar industry. It is both exciting and humbling.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Taking the leap into entrepreneurship while maintaining my full-time job. Having ideas is easy but turning them into reality requires intense work. Leaning into my dream is the achievement.

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Tell us a little about your family. - Growing up, Omaha was considered “the big city” because my entire family was from rural Nebraska. My father delivered livestock feed to farmers and my mother retired from a roofing company. My sister loved education and is now an Associate Professor at Nebraska Methodist College.

My husband James and I have been married for five years and are both career civilians with the U.S. Air Force. I have one son, Kyle, who is 25 years old. He is my kayaking buddy and lives in Bellevue.

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

- Asking James for a first date! He lived in Georgia at the time, and I had relocated back to Nebraska from California. It sounds weird, but we knew after the second date that it was meant to be. We long-distance dated for three years until he was able to transfer from Robins Air Force Base to Offutt Air Force Base. He often jokes that he moved here to upgrade from fiancé to husband.

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What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Getting into a kayak and floating down the West Nishnabotna River. Spending time with friends and family while out on the river is incredibly healing.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

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What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Anchor.

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

- lisagill@tossibles.com; tossibles.com #PrintProudDigitalSmart

KAYLA

Kayla Leddy

CLEARWATER COUNSELING, PC Meet Kayla Leddy CEO/co-owner/clinical director at Clearwater Counseling, PC. Tell us a little about your business. Clearwater Counseling, a private practice with locations in Grand Island and Omaha, works with clients to treat a variety of mental health diagnoses. Being able to bring mental health services to both rural and metro communities in Nebraska is near and dear to our heart.

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How did you get started in the business? - I started working at a nonprofit in Omaha during my undergraduate degree program.

I knew I wanted to help others and be a teammate on whatever journey they were on in life. As time went on, I FINALLY figured out the career I wanted to pursue and went back to school. Then, the universe lined up and I became a co-owner of Clearwater Counseling in 2018.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- So far, the most important achievement in my career has been co-owning a successful two-location practice by the time I was 30 years young. Many of those years I was a single mom, working full-time and attending school full-time. The practice has been able to grow by adding additional staff, and I love to see them evolve as professionals and be part of their advancing careers.

Tell us a little about your family. - I married the love of my life, Michael Leddy, in August 2019. It has been an ever-changing time to celebrate the first year of marriage with a major pandemic, both of us working from home for several months, and both of us tag-teaming teaching duties to our two boys! Alexander is the oldest boy, age 12, and Hayden is the youngest, age seven. They both keep us on our toes with their activities and personalities.

We also have one dog, Wags, who is a 13-year-old Boxer mix.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Meeting my now husband, as we met in Omaha when I was at a training and then several months later at a mutual friends’ child’s birthday party. We started dating long-distance and things progressed from there! If I hadn’t met him, the boys and I might not have moved back to Omaha or opened a second location of Clearwater Counseling.

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If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Ambitious.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - The ability to fly; I would travel a lot more!

Which talent would you most like to have? - To be able to sing!

I love music, but can’t hold a tune to save my life.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - A nurse or a teacher.

What is your favorite TV show? - I have too many to pick just one! I love The Office, New Girl, The Goldbergs, 20/20, and any TV show on The Food Network.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Lazlo’s Brewery & Grill.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Brené Brown.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (308) 210-8487 to schedule an appointment; Kleddy@ clearwatercounselingne.org; www.clearwatercounselingpc.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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CONTROL DEPOT Meet Jason Kusler, senior business development representative at Control Depot.

Tell us a little about your business. - We provide innovative, cost-effective control solutions and web-based facility integration designs across a spectrum of building types in the residential and commercial markets. Control Depot is the premier controls distributor in our area, specializing in HVAC controls, and is also a member of Honeywell’s elite Diamond Distributor Club of advanced building automation distributors.

How did you get started in the business? - I started my career in automation technology as a product specialist for a laboratory robotics manufacturer, then moved into large scale building automation in 2012. I’ve always been fascinated with and enjoyed learning about new technologies.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Control Depot has lots of options for building technology products and solutions.

HVAC controls, security and access controls, lighting controls, and even gas detection systems. My biggest challenge has been staying informed on all the industry leading technology we offer in a fast-paced industry that’s always evolving.

Tell us a little about your family. - I’ve been married to my beautiful wife Molly for 15 years. We have two amazing children; my son Gavin (11) and daughter Grace (9).

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? Deploying to Afghanistan in 2004 with Task Force 168.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I like to play tennis, watch movies, ride my bike, go hiking, and go for a long drives in the country.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I’ve worked in the aviation industry for almost 20 years. Every morning, I pushback an aircraft worth millions of dollars from its gate. All of this before the sun rises.

Who inspires you? - My Uncle Richard Tunnell. He successfully owned and operated several businesses throughout his lifetime, and his hard work and dedication inspired me to bring the same kind of purpose to the office every day.

Which talent would you most like to have? - Storytelling. I’ve always wanted to be able to capture the attention of a group and make them laugh. When I was a kid, I wanted to be a comedian.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - No One Left Behind (NOLF), a nation-wide association of wartime allies in the U.S. dedicated to ensuring that America keeps its promise to our interpreters from Iraq and Afghanistan. These brave men and women served right alongside U.S. military and government personnel, and in many cases, directly saved American lives. During my service, I worked with interpreters every day, and they were vital to our successes in theatre and getting us home safe. I feel we owe them a great debt of gratitude, and in order to repay that, we must work to break down bureaucratic barriers in order to expedite their entrance to the USA. They’ve earned it.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - The Impossible Climb by Mark Synnott.

What is your favorite movie? - Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Chuck Yeager, WW2 Ace and first pilot to break the sound barrier.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 934-0078; jkusler@controldepotinc.com; www. controldepotinc.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

KELLIE

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Meet Kellie Sillik, administrative coordinator for Bath Fitter in Omaha.

Tell us a little about your business. - Bath Fitter can transform your bathroom with demolition-free remodeling, using our unique tub-over-tub process, and seamless wall system. We manufacture and install all of our own products. In my role, I get to have my hands in all aspects of our business, from setting customers’ initial consultation appointments to placing the order for their materials, all the way through to scheduling the installs in addition to the day to day operations of the office. Our mission is to make people smile every time they see their bathtub, and I am proud to be a part of the team helping our customers to do this every day.

How did you get started in the business? - I spent eight years in the direct-marketing industry. Then, I was lucky enough to be able to spend eight years at home when my kids were young. After returning to direct marketing for a few years, I was ready for a change. I stumbled upon the open position at Bath Fitter and haven’t looked back.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - I think balancing work and home is a challenge for all working mothers.

Sometimes, there doesn’t seem to be enough time in a day for all the things that need to get done. Now that my kids are older, it’s a bit easier and everyone at home helps to pitch in when needed.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Earning the respect of my co-workers. I think they see how hard I work, for our customers and in the office every day.

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Tell us a little about your family. - I have been married to my husband Ryan for almost 19 years. Our daughter Cori is 17 and our son Jacob is almost 15. We also have a dog named Bo. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?

- Losing my dad unexpectedly almost four years ago. It taught me to live life to the fullest and make it memorable.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. Weekends are usually centered around food. Between my husband’s bar-b-que, my daughter’s baking, or something I create to tie it all together, no one ever leaves our house hungry!

Who inspires you? - My kids inspire me every day to be the best that I can be. I want to show them that our words and actions make a difference in the world.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” - A. A. Milne If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Honest.

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Jesus, Take The Wheel” by Carrie Underwood.

What is your favorite movie? - It’s a Wonderful Life. It shows us that each of us makes an impact on everyone around us, even if we do not realize how much.

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What is your favorite TV show? - Cooking shows or any of the 90 Day Fiancé shows on TLC. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 934-2284; ksillik@bathfitter.com; www.bathfitter.com/ location/omaha. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

JULY 2020 Strictly Business

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Finding people who understand accessibility to test online and digital content is strongly recommended. Using real-life people who understand accessibility is key. Expectations with collaborators should be set up-front, which includes graphic designers, content managers, and writers. Some key accessibility concerns to address include: • Avoid “click here” links and vague link names • Reduce cluttered pages • Use headings • Keep formatting simple • Use tables selectively Label your photos and icons with alt-text so screen reader users understand these visual items.

Outlook Business Solutions provides accessibility testing for organizations and companies. Skilled technicians test various aspects of your online/ digital platforms and provide suggestions you can implement to ensure your content meets with ADA and WCAG guidelines. We can: • Conduct a thorough review of your website to identify any accessibility obstacles including missing alt text for images, incorrectly labeled buttons, and navigational errors.

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PERSONNEL NEWS Candy Specht’s State Farm Agency Celebrates First Year

CFO Systems Adds Tracy Crowell to its Omaha Team as HR Division Continues to Grow

Candy Specht’s State Farm Agency opened on May 1, 2019 in the Stonehenge Shopping Center. Candy’s first year was filled with professional success and growth.

Her agency strives to give her clients excellent customer service as well as giving back to the community. Candy and her team put together a men’s deodorant drive for Open Door Mission and gave to the Food Bank for the Heartland while helping local restaurants during the COVID-19 shut down. She is now a proud member of the West Omaha Rotary Club where she hopes to continue to help serve the community and their needs.

CFO Systems, LLC announced that it recently added Tracy Crowell to its Omaha team and its 40+ professionals nationwide who are focused on helping their clients grow their businesses. Tracy comes to CFO with more than 10 years of experience leading and developing talent to drive business results and create trusted, autonomous, and productive work teams. No matter where she is adding value, she strives to build a healthy culture and an environment where she is in tune with her employees and customers.

Candy has been in the insurance industry for over 13 years. She loves working with people and helping them understand their short-term risks while also helping them achieve their long-term goals. Candy provides auto, home, property, business, life, annuities, mortgages, and other financial services. In her personal life, Candy is the proud mother of two boys and wife of a high school chemistry teacher.

Candy Specht’s State Farm Agency is located at 1838 N 144th St. To set up an appointment with Candy, call (402) 493-7655 or email candy@insuredbycandy.com. You can also visit her website at insuredbycandy.com.

Thirteen Students Return to Greater Nebraska for NCF Hometown Internships Thirteen students are being welcomed to their Greater Nebraska hometowns for summer internships that will further the community-building work of local Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) affiliated funds. The opportunity to host a summer intern came about through Nebraska Community Foundation’s Hometown Internship Program. Affiliated funds of Nebraska Community Foundation were offered challenge grants in partnership with NCF’s board of directors to ensure students would be compensated for their work.

As part of the program, interns are asked to discover and document the assets and abundance of their homeplace. They will help facilitate conversations with community members regarding these assets and opportunities, and they will co-create opportunities to mobilize these local assets to increase community quality of life.

“Connecting young people to opportunities in their hometowns is critical to Nebraska’s people attraction efforts,” said Jeff Yost, president and CEO of Nebraska Community Foundation. “Thirteen bright, young, ambitious Nebraskans will return to their communities for the summer and while I am certain they will gain invaluable learning experiences, we also have much to learn from these students about what they are looking for in the places they ultimately decide to call home.”

NCF Hometown Interns include: Ben Arens, Ainsworth; Lydia Behnk, Elgin; Dakota Cherney, Chester; Patricia Cleveland, Albion; Haley Faust, Columbus; Lexi Gross, McCook; Jacy Hafer, Long Pine; Chloe Higgins, Nebraska City; Hannah Meeske, Imperial; Abigail Moody, Burwell; Katie Patrick, Grant; Erik Rodriquez, Nebraska City; and Miranda Shreves, Johnson.

To learn more about the Nebraska Community Foundation, visit NebraskaHometown.org, call (402) 323-7000, or email info@ nebcommfound.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

“CFO Systems is fortunate to attract someone like Tracy,” said Brett Frevert, CFO Systems managing director. “We are excited to add another talented member to our growing HR team. Tracy’s Fortune 500 experience and unique skillset in both HR and finance will benefit our clients tremendously.”

CFO Systems, LLC is a nationwide company founded in 2005 to provide practical, experienced financial and human-resources leadership to middle-market companies. The firm was named on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies for four consecutive years.

Headquartered in Omaha, CFO Systems serves clients from Florida to Washington and southern California to Connecticut, working with clients both onsite and remotely. For more information, visit www. cfosystemsllc.com or call (402) 884-0066.

Chris Hove Elected to Chairman of Nebraska Bankers Association Chris Hove, president and CEO of Nebraska Bank of Commerce in Lincoln, has been elected by his peers as chairman of the Nebraska Bankers Association (NBA) Board of Directors, succeeding Alan Emshoff, president and CEO of Generations Bank in Exeter.

Hove began his career in banking more than 35 years ago at the Minden Exchange Bank & Trust Co. in Minden, NE, filling numerous part time positions from bookkeeping and check sorting to janitorial duties. From 1983 to 1992, Hove served in the United States Navy as a Flight Officer. Upon leaving active duty, Hove gained additional banking experience in the areas of compliance, consumer, and commercial banking at numerous Nebraska-chartered banks including First National Bank of Omaha, Platte Valley State Bank, National Bank of Commerce, and West Gate Bank. In July 2010, Hove joined Nebraska Bank of Commerce as executive vice president and senior loan officer. In 2011, Hove was promoted to his current role as president and CEO. Hove has consistently taken active roles within the association having served on the NBA Government Relations Committee, Lending Committee, Bank Management Committee, Executive Management Committee, and several Schools of Banking Advisory Committees. He recently served on the NBA Board of Directors (2014–2016), and the NBA Voluntary Employee Beneficiaries Association Board of Trustees (2017 – 2019).

The Nebraska Bankers Association, founded in 1890, is the voice of Nebraska’s $77.9 billion banking industry, which is composed of small, regional, and large banks that together employ more than 15,000 people, and safeguard nearly $63.9 billion in deposits, all within the state of Nebraska. Learn more online at www.nebankers.org.

JULY 2020 Strictly Business 21

PERSONNEL NEWS Berry Law Adds Attorney and Marine Corps Veteran Matthew Knipe to Firm

9Round Fitness Welcomes Prissylla Penaherrera to Team of Local Trainers

Berry Law has added another seasoned criminal defense lawyer to the team in order to continue expanding services for their clients.

Matt Knipe joins Berry Law’s Omaha office. He will represent persons charged with crimes as part of his mission to uphold the constitutional rights on which the country was founded.

9Round recently welcomed Prissylla Penaherrera as a new member of its team of kickbox fi tness trainers at the Lincoln location. Besides being a former member of the Army National Guard and a competitive boxer, Prissylla is working on her Master’s degree in a holistic, ancient medical system, Maharishi Ayurveda, integrated with modern health science. As a trainer, she aims to develop the perfect kickbox workout fit for each client’s specific needs and goals.

“What has made Prissylla stand out so far is her ability to take a genuine interest in every member she trains,” said 9Round Area Director Chris Rush. “The personal touch she adds to every workout is catered to each individual member, and I find that truly amazing.”

Since 9Round has no set class times, members get to show up on their own schedules. Prissylla is consistently ready to lead the daily workout at all times, and her high energy and enthusiasm accounts for workouts that are both KILLER and enjoyable. Prissylla enjoys pushing her own fitness limits, too.

“I have had personal interest in wellness and fitness for some time now and enjoy finding ways to challenge my body,” she said.

If you’re interested in trying a FREE workout, call the Papillion location, 304 Olson Dr., STE 109, at (402) 817-7349 or visit www.9Round.com.

Knipe has extensive experience representing clients in both state and federal court, and he will add more firepower to Berry Law’s criminal defense practice. Prior to joining the firm, Knipe served as a defense attorney in Iowa at the firm of McCarthy & Hamrock, P.C. Knipe is also a Veteran, currently serving as a Senior Enlisted Advisor/Detachment Gunnery Sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. He is currently assigned to Detachment 1, Maintenance Company located in Omaha. He deployed to Afghanistan in 2010 and has engaged in training operations around the world. Knipe received his Juris Doctor from Drake Law School while also obtaining a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Drake University.

Knipe’s dedication to supporting the rights of Americans has been a lifelong commitment. Upon graduation from high school, Knipe enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps where he swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. Now, he defends the Constitution by safeguarding the individual rights of every client he represents.

Through the COVID-19 pandemic, Berry Law remains dedicated to improving their team and legal services. To learn more about the firm, visit jsberrylaw.com or call (402) 704-8180.

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Strictly Business JULY 2020

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PERSONNEL NEWS Strictly Business Assistant Writer Kadi Carleton Hits One-Year Mark

FNBO Announces Corporate & Commercial Leadership Promotions

On June 3, Assistant Writer Kadi Carleton celebrated her one-year work anniversary with Strictly Business. Kadi contributes to writing press releases, feature stories, client spotlights, and other copy for the magazine. Kadi also assists in conducting further correspondence with businesses and organizations to gather information for press, interviewing clients for story quotes, and proofreading the final copies of each issue before going to print. Kadi is about to graduate from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln with majors in English and Women and Gender Studies along with a minor in Biology.

Since coming on board, Kadi has been thankful for the marketing and press copy writing experience that she has gained. She is glad to have the opportunity to work with and learn from the experienced, fun, and hard-working women who make up the Strictly Business team. Kadi’s more than happy to keep the other members up-to-date on internet trends, memes, and the occasional TikTok dance in return. On her days off, you can find her spending time with her cat Saturn.

Strictly Business is a reliable news source and personable advertising tool. Learn more at strictly-business.com. To contact Kadi, call the office at (402) 466-3330 or email writer@strictlybusinessomaha.com.

First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) announced four promotions within its corporate and commercial banking groups. Those include John Grose, promoted to vice president, head of corporate banking; Kevin Thompson to regional vice president, commercial banking; and Steve Eck and Doug Sutko to managing directors, commercial banking.

“This talented and tenured group is sure to make a meaningful impact in new leadership roles,” said David Cota, executive vice John Grose president, wholesale banking. “Individually, these leaders have a strong understanding of the needs of our business customers and we continuously see their commitment to the success of the community. Together, they make a dynamic team whose vision will be essential as we grow and enhance our capabilities for serving businesses of all sizes.”

As vice president, head of corporate banking, Grose is responsible for the bank’s corporate banking team, which works with large-scale clients that have complex financial needs and span the bank’s seven-state footprint. Serving Kevin Thompson a broad range of industries, the team also specializes in healthcare and transportation.

Grose joined FNBO in 2007 and during his tenure has served in many positions working with businesses, most recently serving as managing director of the commercial banking team in Omaha.

As regional vice president, commercial banking, Thompson has accountability for leading the teams working with FNBO’s business customers in Lincoln, Fremont, Beatrice, and the Omaha Metro area, along with communities in Kansas Steve Eck and Texas. He is responsible for guiding these teams to continuously improve FNBO’s businesscustomer experience and capabilities in the region. Thompson began his career with FNBO in 1994 and previously served as managing director for the commercial banking team.

With their new roles as managing directors, commercial banking, Eck and Sutko each will lead a team of relationship managers in providing business customers with advice and value. They will be responsible for overseeing the teams working with businesses in Lincoln, Doug Sutko Beatrice, Fremont, and the Omaha Metro area.

Before joining FNBO in 2014, Eck was a practicing Certified Public Accountant (CPA). He served as vice president of commercial banking prior to his new role. Sutko joined FNBO in 2003 and started in commercial banking in 2007. He has held a variety of positions working with businesses and most recently served as vice president of commercial banking.

First National Bank of Omaha provides comprehensive solutions in helping businesses with their financial needs. With more than 50,000 business customers representing a variety of sizes and industries, FNBO has remained steadfast in its commitment to helping build strong communities through its work with businesses. Primary banking offices are located in Nebraska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota and Texas. Learn more at www.FNBO.com and follow on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram (@fnbo).

JULY 2020 Strictly Business 23

Concentric Celebrates Work Anniversaries of Hannah Coleman and Shelby Hawkins Concentric Corporation has celebrated two employees—Hannah Coleman and Shelby Hawkins—for their fifth and third anniversaries with the company, respectively.

Hannah celebrated five years with Concentric on May 4. Her job as the company’s marketing manager involves staying up-to-date on market trends, so she is continuously gaining new knowledge about the industry. Hannah has a passion for building things, helping others, and creating and continuing relationships, which aligns perfectly with her role at Concentric.

Hannah Coleman

Shelby celebrated two years with Concentric on June 12. As the office coordinator, she works hard to keep the company organized, so they can work as efficiently as possible.

Shelby enjoys organization, being creative, solving problems, and lending a helping hand, all of which parallel well with her role.

Concentric Corporation is bringing back the Shelby Hawkins fundamentals of recruiting, which starts with the relationship. They are upgrading the approach in executive search and recruiting by being deliberate and purposeful, always taking the extra step, and keeping the audience’s best interests in mind. Instead of helping clients just fill jobs, Concentric finds the right talent for each position, helping you find employees who can grow and succeed at your company. Learn more at www.concentriccorp.com or by calling (402) 991-8400 or emailing jobs@concentriccorp.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS JDRF to Host Webinar Addressing Labor and Employment Law Changes in 2020

Heartland Hope Mission Serving Double the Families Due to COVID Economic Effects

Join JDRF Nebraska-Southwest Iowa on Monday, July 13, at noon to hear Chad Richter, office managing principal at Jackson Lewis, P.C. and JDRF board member, discuss labor and employment law changes in 2020 and how to best protect your organization.

During this free professional development virtual event, Chad will explore the impact of COVID-19 on the workplace in addition to discussing the important topic of diversity and inclusion within your organization. This webinar will address strategic ways to initiate and elevate your diversity and inclusion internally, share best practices, and how to effectively challenge your teams to be intentional about diversity and inclusion with every key decision in your organization.

The economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have translated to increased demand for Heartland Hope Mission’s services. The Mission currently is helping twice as many families as average, with a surge in the number of residents facing crisis situations and needing food, clothing, diapers, job resources, and community referrals. Keeping its food pantry stocked has become increasingly important in recent weeks, but so has the need for helping people get back into the job market and working their ways back to self-sufficiency.

One new client of Heartland Hope is Hilana and her family. In the wake of COVID’s arrival, she and her husband lost their jobs on the same day and quickly found themselves in crisis mode. Hilana said the pantry at Heartland Hope has been “really important” to her family right now, and even as they have no idea what the future holds for them, they are encouraged by the services available there as they get back in the driver’s seat. Due to the increased demand for those services, Heartland Hope is in need of additional volunteers at their food pantry. Volunteers distribute food and hygiene products—or host a drive to help restock Heartland’s shelves.

Heartland Hope Mission is one of the largest food pantries in the state, but is more than a pantry, as they help families recover from crises and return to supporting themselves. For more information or to volunteer, visit www.HeartlandHopeMission.org. Keep up with what they are doing in the community by following them on Facebook and Instagram (@HearlandHopeMission).

The event will conclude with JDRF One Walk Chairs Jennifer and Ken Allred sharing their experience with the Omaha JDRF One Walk, which will take place on October 3, and how you can strengthen employee engagement at your company through participation. To learn more about the Omaha JDRF One Walk visit walk.jdrf.org/omaha.

JDRF is the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. To learn more or access the pre-registration form required for the free webinar, visit jdrf.org/nebraska. Feel free to pass along this opportunity to any colleagues who may benefit from this presentation. Contact Chris Dunn at (402) 881-3181 / cdunn@jdrf.org with further questions.

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NONPROFIT NEWS HETRA Presents StoryTime with the Minis In order to bring a little joy into the world, the Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy (HETRA) has started a series on their YouTube channel titled, StoryTime with the Minis. The latest video featured Rita Borgstadt, HETRA’s intake coordinator and certified instructor, reading Thunder Horse by Eve Bunting with the help of mini horses, Blue and Stormy. Many different staff members and horse-themed books have been and will continue to be featured. All books for the series were from the Gretna Public Library and the Gretna Children’s Library. StoryTimes are meant to be a fun and quick distraction for kids who are cooped up at home.

As a nonprofit organization, HETRA is committed to serving the community even if it is in an unusual way. Along with StoryTimes, the HETRA team has been spreading joy by bringing Blue and Stormy around senior living facilities so that the seniors can see them from their windows. The miniature ponies were happy to be greeted with smiles and cheer.

HETRA utilizes equine-assisted activities to improve the quality of life both emotionally and physically of adults and children of all ability levels. More information is available online at HETRA. org. Follow their Facebook (@TeamHETRA) and Youtube (@ HETRANebraska) to see their fun content.

Wear Yellow Nebraska Hits Halfway Mark of Participants for Annual Ride, Run & Walk Wear Yellow Nebraska’s 17th Annual Wear Yellow Ride, Run & Walk is still on for Saturday, August 15, at Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum in Ashland and, so far, over 250 participants have registered which is halfway to the organization’s goal of 500 total participants.

Due to safety precautions, Wear Yellow Nebraska is capping the registration of this event at 500, and they anticipate filling every spot. So anyone who is interested in being a part of this amazing event—cyclists, runners, and walkers alike—are encourage to register today! 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. Riders and walkers/runners are encouraged to stick around after the race for breakfast by the Pancake Man, Wear Yellow’s Legendary Raffle, and dozens of door prizes. Each paid registration will also be given free access to the museum following the race. Non-participants can also enjoy breakfast for $5.

If you would like to participate in Wear Yellow Nebraska’s Wear Yellow Ride, Fun Run & Walk on August 15, register online at www. supportwyn.org/17. You can also follow the Facebook event page (@WearYellowNebraska) for the latest information. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands Earns 2020 Platinum Seal of Transparency Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands (BBBSM) proudly announced June 9 that they earned the 2020 Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar, which has spent 88 years helping to change the world by giving people the information they need to do well and do good. GuideStar seals of transparency indicate that a nonprofit has provided key information to its nonprofit profile, which helps potential donors and funders get insight into their work and make educated decisions about the organization.

By earning a GuideStar Seal of Transparency, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands sends a message to the IRS and to donors that it is holding nothing back, painting a clear picture of its activities and financials. What’s more, the Platinum Seal of Transparency is the highest-level seal awarded for fully and completely fulfilling all information transparency, including things like goals, strategies, capabilities, indicators, audited financials, mission statement, programs, names, descriptions, metrics demonstrating their progress and results, and more. Learn more about BBBSM at www.bbbsomaha.org.

Jennie Edmundson Foundation’s COVID-19 Response Fund Makes Meaningful Impact When COVID-19 first hit, the Jennie Edmundson Foundation quic kly established the COVID-19 Response Fund to lessen the burden on the health care systems. Thanks to community support and funding, the Fund has been able to: • Assist uninsured and/or underinsured low-income patients to cover COVID-19 related healthcare costs • Provide financial help with necessary living expenses and housing for vulnerable patients • Ensure that hospitals have sufficient personal protection equipment, supplies, and medical equipment so that health care workers can stay healthy while caring for patients • Provide pandemic-related training and resources to physicians, nurses, and hospital staff • Aid in the hiring of additional nurses and caregivers to meet the increased demand The Fund has been successful, but donations must continue in order to ensure that even the most vulnerable residents can be protected and to keep our health care workers safe as the pandemic continues.

More information is available on the Jennie Edmundson Foundation’s website, jehfoundation.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS El Museo Latino Announces Current Exhibits on Display

YES Receives $10K Gift from American Family Insurance Dreams Foundation

El Museo Latino, a local n o n p ro f i t c o l l e c t i n g, exhibiting, and interpreting Latino arts of the Americas, has three exhibits currently on display: the Smithsonian Institution “Dolores Huerta: Revolution in the Fields” on view through September 26 and “Picasso: Master in Clay” and “Mouly on the Move” on view through August 22. The organization also hosts community events featuring traditional celebrations, Latino history, and culture throughout the year highlighting Cinco de Mayo, Hispanic Heritage, Day of the Dead/Día de Muertos, and Las Posadas.

Youth Emergency Services (YES) is excited to announce it has received an unrestricted $10,000 gift from the American Family Insurance Dreams Foundation. YES plans to use the grants to support its Emergency Shelter.

The American Family Insurance Dreams Foundation (www.amfam.com/about/ givingback/community-investment) combines financial support with volunteerism, creativity, and expertise to inspire, protect, and restore dreams in the communities they serve.

“At this extremely challenging time for everyone, it is encouraging to know that people are still focused on how they can help,” said Director of Development Barb Farho. “We are incredibly grateful for the American Family Insurance Dream Foundation’s forward thinking in getting grant awards out to address our increased needs related to COVID-19.”

Youth Emergency Services is the only nonprofit in Omaha with the sole mission to help youth experiencing homelessness and near-homelessness in the community. Last year, YES provided support and services to more than 3,000 youth in the Omaha metro area. Many of these youth have been physically, emotionally, or sexually abused, making it unsafe for them to return home. Without YES, these vulnerable young people cannot succeed independently. YES 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, Maternity Home, and Rapid Rehousing program. To learn more, visit www.yesomaha.org or call (402) 345-5187.

Opened in 1993 as the first Latino art and history museum, El Museo Latino is one of only 17 Latino museums in the United States. As the only Latino museum in the Midwest, El Museo Latino presents five to seven exhibits each year as well as educational and community programs, and artist residencies. The museum offers humanities programs that feature local and visiting scholars and artists through presentations, scholarly lectures, films, and discussion opportunities.

El Museo Latino is committed to strengthening the artistic and creative culture of the Greater Omaha Area through the presentation of Latino arts by providing direct support to local artists, increasing the visibility of Latino art forms, and fostering an appreciation of art for the benefit of a diverse audience. The museum is located at 4701 S 25 St. For questions and additional information, please visit www.elmuseolatino.org or call (402) 731-1137.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Domesti-PUPS Celebrates 20 Years of Helping People with Disabilities Gain Independence

CEDARS Introduces Virtual Training for New Foster Parents

For 20 years, Domesti-PUPS has been training service dogs to help people with disabilities live their best lives by gaining independence and confidence. Executive Director Michelle O’Dea founded DomestiPUPS in 2000 after her own emotional support dog helped her through chronic depression. Her personal experiences showed her that dogs can help mankind and provide much needed support to differently abled people. The PUPS in Domesti-PUPS stands for Providing Unique Personal Service. All dogs are individually matched based on needs and training. Service PUPS are taught to pick up dropped items from the floor, open doors, turn on light switches, provide balance, pull wheelchairs, and can even be taught to sort laundry. These special canines are taught anywhere from 30 to 90 commands over a two-year period before being placed with their future life partner. Domesti-PUPS also trains dogs to become certified therapy dogs for classrooms, hospitals, nursing homes, and more.

CEDARS recently introduced virtual training classes for new foster parents.

The next class starts July 16 and runs on Thursday evenings for 10 weeks.

Domesti-PUPS is proud of the community support the organization has received in Lincoln, Omaha, and beyond for the past 20 years, and they look forward to many more years of service. In May, the community raised over $12,000 for the organization and volunteers continually help raise and socialize these pups. To learn how you can help, go to domesti-pups.org.

CEDARS has served kids and families in the community for over 70 years.

If you have ever considered becoming a foster parent, now’s the time.

Visit cedarskids.org or contact Caitlin Summerlin at (402) 810-1399 / csummerlin@cedarskids.org for more information.

Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum Reopens with Visitor Guidelines

In response to many inpatient hospital playrooms being forced to close and social interaction decreasing because of the virus, Bags of Fun took toys and window markers to Nebraska Medicine for the patients to have for their individual rooms. They also took backpacks full of toys and games to the Ronald McDonald House in Omaha for each family isolated there.

Families are usually from out of town but need to stay close to medical attention during their child’s treatments, and are therefore unable to return home where they might feel the most comfortable. The backpacks delivered by Bags Full backpacks getting to the Ronald of Fun are meant to bring joy and normalcy into delivered McDonald House. the situation, reinforcing that the patients are children first. After receiving a bag, the majority of parents felt less isolated because someone else was thinking of their child.

Every bag is individually crafted for each patient. Bags of Fun takes each child’s likes, favorites, age, and diagnosis into consideration when customizing each bag. Sometimes, the child will ask for slippers and a nightlight; sometimes they ask for Olaf from Frozen. Bags of Fun recently got a little boy new sandals because he didn’t have any. Though all different, each Bags of Fun dropping bag contains fun and laughter! off bags child life Bags of Fun is independent of the hospitals and specialists at Nebraska each Bag of Fun is funded by the Gabby Krause Medicine, which were Foundation. The bags are an essential tool that made in partnership brings the power of play into the hospitals. with Fat Brain Toys.

For the child, it brings instant excitement and a distraction from their pain, illness, and anxiety. Since the inception of the program in 2004, Bags of Fun has fulfilled every request from the participating hospitals. To learn more, visit bagsoffun.org.

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After voluntarily closing March 16 in response to the rapidly evolving situation with the novel coronavirus, the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum reopened its doors to the general public on May 18. The Museum has resumed regular operations, open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This includes all exhibits, flight simulators, gift shop, and SAC Lunch Café. Summer Camp programming began as scheduled on June 8 and will run through July 24.

Both guests and staff are required to wear masks at all times, while visiting the Museum. Signs and notices throughout the Museum are also in place to remind guests and staff to exercise social distancing. Visitors are asked to review the additional guidelines and safety measures in place for staff and guests on the Museum website before visiting.

“This is an uncertain time for museums with the likelihood that 25% will not reopen,” explains Executive Director Jeff Cannon. “There is no doubt that tourism oriented businesses such as museums, attractions, hotels, and airlines will continue to have significant challenges over the next few years. I am proud to see the efforts that our team is performing in all departments. Within days of shutting down, the team transitioned into the new normal, adapting and planning for our future by offering virtual programs in our core pillars of education, veterans, and community. And in preparation to reopen, the team has implemented current guidelines to assure the safety of staff and visitors.”

Information about the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum’s upcoming events, summer camps, and visitor guidelines can be found online at www.sacmuseum.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Previously, those interested in becoming a foster parent were required to attend class in person, but due to current restrictions, training classes have been made virtual so that new classes weren’t postponed.

“These classes can’t wait because the kids can’t wait,” says CEDARS President Jim Blue. “Recently, we had to turn away over a hundred kids in a single month because there aren’t enough licensed foster parents in our community.”

It is important to know that there is no typical CEDARS foster family.

CEDARS foster families include parents with children at home, single adults, couples hoping to adopt, and empty nesters. To help, all you need is a stable home, an open heart, and a willingness to reach out to a child in need. CEDARS foster care team will be with you every step of the way.

Bags of Fun Delivers Backpacks of Toys to Nebraska Medicine, Ronald McDonald House

NONPROFIT NEWS Malone Community Center Adapts and Extends Services Throughout COVID-19

Community Steps Up to Support First Responders Foundation with Donations

All of the Malone Community Center’s families and programs have been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. As a team, they have worked night and day to continue services and create new ways to help the community, including opening their child care facility for parents who are essential workers, offering all programs virtually, and providing food and hygiene products for families.

For the last 65 years, the Malone Center has created and facilitated programs to combat the racial disparities and inequities in justice, healthcare, and social systems. They have served as a cornerstone for educational, cultural, advocacy, and health and welfare programs to create unity and prosperity in Lincoln while honoring their African American Heritage. Their community holistic programming includes Early Achiever’s Academy, Out of School Program, Culler Community Learning Center, Young Business Leadership Academy, Pregnant and Parenting Programs, Minority Health Initiative, Take Pause, Project Uplift, and Hold Cops Accountable Initiative. The Center continually creates and changes programs to meet the needs of the youth, families, and community they serve. For more information, visit www.malonecenter.org or call (402) 474-1110.

The First Responders Foundation would like to thank the community, individuals, and organizations/ businesses for the outpouring of supplies and support for metro area first responders during the month of June. The Foundation received countless calls and emails from concerned citizens asking, “How can I help?” The Foundation collected thousands of cases of water and sports beverages, protein bars, beef jerky, hundreds of different snack items, sunscreen, lip balm, and more, along with cards and well wishes from all ages, thanking first responders and letting them know they care. Departments in Douglas, Sarpy, Cass, and Pottawattamie counties all received donations, and they were overwhelmed with gratitude.

The Foundation is now collecting thank you notes and gift cards that will be shared with first responders. Financial contributions to the Foundation are always needed and appreciated to continue programming for first responders and their families. In addition to programming, the Foundation also hosts events throughout the year, including the First Responders Foundation 9/11 Event of Honor on Friday, September 11, 2020. Save the date! To make a donation and for more information, visit www.firstrespondersomaha.org, email contact@firstrespondersomaha, or call (402) 218-1234.

Parkinson’s Nebraska to Raise Funds for New RCO Program Through GIVE65 From July 15 to 17, Parkinson’s Nebraska is participating in the fifth annual GIVE65 event, a 65-hour online giving event presented by the Home Instead Senior Care Foundation. This year, they’re raising funds for their new Rural Community Outreach (RCO) program. The RCO program was designed in response to the specific needs of rural communities through active engagement, communitybuilding, expanding programming based on local needs, and creating a foundation for lasting change. The event begins at 5 a.m. CDT on Wednesday, July 15, and concludes at 10 p.m. on July 17.

During the GIVE65 event, Parkinson’s Nebraska is also raising funds with the hopes of receiving up to $5,000 in matching funds from the Home Instead Senior Care Foundation. This helps amplify the generosity of their donors who help fuel their mission.

COVID-19 has dramatically impacted people with Parkinson’s and their families in Nebraska. Throughout this global pandemic, Parkinson’s Nebraska continues to provide their services and programs across the state. They’ve been able to adapt and determine innovative ways to help those in need. Online programming has become the new standard for service delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic and they recognize this as an opportunity to reach rural and under-served communities in a new way. The organization relies heavily on the generous support of the Nebraska community to continue to provide these programs and increase their outreach efforts.

To donate to Parkinson’s Nebraska during GIVE65, go to the campaign page at www.give65.org/parkinsonsnebraska. All donations are 100% tax deductible in the United States. You can learn more about the organization online at www.parkinsonsnebraska.org or call (402) 715-4707.

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Stephen Center Requests In-Kind Donations to Support COVID-19 Response Stephen Center—a South Omaha-based homeless shelter, permanent supportive housing, and co-occurring treatment center—is requesting in-kind donations to continue meeting the needs of 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. Extra efforts are taken during mealtime to maintain social distancing, including the elimination of self-serve stations and shared food items, like peanut butter jars, ketchup bottles, and water pitchers.

As a result, Stephen Center is in urgent need of: individual milk cartons, single-serve jams, individual juice cartons, single-serve creamers, bottled water, salt and pepper packets, single-serve peanut butter, and individually-wrapped plastic ware sets.

Individuals can give on their own or host a drive to benefit the Stephen Center. Donations can be dropped off at 2723 Q St. in Omaha. The donation dock is located behind the main building.

Donors can also shop for items via Amazon Smile and ship directly to the Stephen Center. Visit smile.amazon.com and choose Stephen Center as your charity to view and shop the lists.

Stephen Center is also welcoming financial donations at this time to 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. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS Angels Among Us to Hold 10th Annual Bland Cares Golf Outing on July 13

Kids Can Adds After School Program at Minne Lusa Elementary

On July 13, Angels Among Us will be holding their 10th annual Bland Cares Golf Outing at Champions Run, 13800 Eagle Run Dr. The event will begin at 11:30 a.m. and conclude at 6 p.m.

In addition to the golf, there will be unique games, raffle items valued at over $150 each, and lunch. They have modified the event format to meet CDC guidelines regarding social distancing so that everyone stays safe while having fun. This golf outing is sponsored by the Bland Cares Foundation which provides financial and volunteer support to local nonprofits.

Angels Among Us is a Nebraska nonprofit that provides support, financial and emotional, to families whose children have been diagnosed with cancer. Currently, they are supporting 92 local cancer families. Of those, nearly 60 are critical bills like rent and mortgage.

To register for the Angels Among Us outing, go to their website at myangelsamongus.org. For more information about events or involvement opportunities, contact Aly Theilen at Alyssa@ myangelsamongus.org.

Kids Can Community Center is pleased to announce the addition of an after school program at Minne Lusa Elementary, 2728 Ida St. Kids Can will become the lead agency in providing programming and oversight to the afterschool and summer program in partnership with Collective for Youth. The addition of the Minne Lusa site will allow Kids Can to expand its mission and make a positive impact on an increased number of students. Students in the afterschool program will receive high quality programming delivered by caring adults. Kids Can is excited to help support the great work being done by Minne Lusa administration and staff in supporting the positive development of students.

Kids Can Community Center is a youth serving agency whose mission is to educate, engage and inspire children through early childhood care and out-of-school experiences. For more information, visit www.kidscan. org. Questions can be directed to Josh Gillman at jgillman@kidscan.org.

NAM Poll Estimates that Heartland Nonprofits Will Lose $42M Due to COVID

Previously on Tuesdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m., NAMI Omaha has moved Family Support Groups on Zoom to the 1st and 3rd Mondays, 6:30–8 p.m. (Meeting ID #828 2269 3204). Connections Meetings and will still be available utilizing Zoom on the following dates/times: • Mondays, 6:30–8 p.m. (Meeting ID #627 585 818) • Fridays, 2:30–4 p.m. (Meeting ID #932 125 259) 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 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)

A new Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) poll of 231 nonprofit organizations in the region found that the COVID-19 crisis is having alarming financial and programmatic repercussions on the sector, with Heartland nonprofits expected to lose $42 million in revenue as a result of the pandemic. Fully 97% of poll respondents said they expect the coronavirus to have a negative effect on their nonprofits, while 81% said it will affect their budgets, and 61% say the impact will be significant.

The survey, conducted April 23–29 as a follow-up to a similar mid-March survey, included responses from nonprofits related to arts, culture and humanities, environmental issues, animals, international affairs, religion, education, health and human services, public and societal benefits, and member and unclassified organizations. Of the total respondents, 49% operate in the Omaha metro area, 17% are in the Lincoln area, 10% are in Council Bluffs and the rest operate elsewhere in Nebraska and Iowa.

In other results, 86% of respondents said they had to cancel programs and fundraisers in the last couple of months, and 74% said services to their clients and the community have been disrupted. What’s more, 43% said staff and volunteer absences have become more frequent and of longer duration, and 36% said supplies and services provided by partners have been disrupted. Finally, 11% said the pandemic has put them in a financial crisis, with 27 organizations having applied for Economic Injury Disaster loans and 156 for Paycheck Protection payments.

History has shown that economic downturns typically hit nonprofits immediately, while economic recovery tends to reach the nonprofit community much later than it does for-profit operations. The underlying message of the poll results is that many years of underfunding of vital nonprofit infrastructure and supports means a significant infusion of funds will be needed both in the short- and long-term. The good news from the survey, however, is that the region’s nonprofits have continued to step up to the plate without hesitation to serve their communities, protect public health, and support their own employees.

For more information about the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands, visit www.nonprofitam.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NAMI Omaha Announces New Days and Times for Virtual Support Groups

Kids’ Chance of Nebraska to Host 2020 Golf Outing August 27 at Iron Horse Golf Course On August 27, Kids’ Chance of Nebraska will be hosting their 2020 Golf Outing at Iron Horse Golf Course, 900 Club House Dr., in Ashland. Times have yet to be announced. It will be an 18-hole game. Lunch, door/pin prizes, and carts are included in the ticket price.

The mission of Kids’ Chance of Nebraska is to provide financial support to further the education of the children of Nebraska workers who have been severely injured, totally disabled, or killed as a result of an employment related injury or occupational disease.

Their goal is to make a difference by providing scholarships that enable eligible students to achieve their educational goals and fulfill their and their family’s dreams.

To learn more about the 2020 Golf Outing, go to kidschanceofne. org/golf-event. For sponsorship information, contact Shawn Wills at (402) 290-8662 / swills@madonna.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Omaha Home for Boys Welcomes NFL Super Bowl Champ Michael Oher as Keynote

Cross Training Center Expands Volunteer Opportunities with Flexible Hours

Tickets are on sale for the Omaha Home Boys (OHB) 100-year celebration featuring keynote speaker and former Super Bowl Champ Michael Oher, whose inspiring journey from the streets of Memphis to the National Football League is portrayed in the Academy-Award-nominated movie The Blind Side. Oher is scheduled to share his inspiring message on Thursday, October 8, at the CHI Health Center during lunch. OHB invites the public to join them in celebrating the milestone anniversary, aimed at raising money to benefit the more than 1,300 youth, young adults, children, and families served

by OHB annually.

Oher was a first-round NFL Draft pick and a 2013 Super Bowl Champion with the Baltimore Ravens, after beating the odds and getting off the streets, through college, and drafted into the NFL as an offensive tackle, thanks to the support of the Tuohy family and his own determination and talent. He also is the author of the New York Times Bestseller, Beat the Odds: From Homelessness to the Blind Side and Beyond.

Omaha Home for Boys empowers at-risk youth with the skills and confidence needed to transition from a state of crisis to that of safety and growth. Tickets now are on sale at www.ohb.org. For more information or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, contact Lori Bechtold at giving@ohb.org or (402) 457-7014.

Cross Training Center, a local nonprofit dedicated to equipping disadvantaged and under-educated adults with the training and experience they need to obtain employment, has expanded its volunteer opportunities.

Those who are interested in getting behind the Center’s mission can choose to donate their time and talents to the following efforts: social media, fundraising, church ambassadors, video production and photography, lunch for students, grounds or building maintenance, teaching/training, outreach, student services, gift-in-kind drives, electronic collection events, prayer room management, fireworks tent, other administrative duties, and more.

Cross Training Center offers a lot of flexibility when it comes to hours and length of commitment within these volunteer opportunities.

Volunteers are welcome to come alone or bring a group.

There are many benefits to volunteering, such as emotional, social, and professional perks. Volunteering is a great way to gain a new perspective, not only for choosing a degree or figuring out a career path, but in your personal life as well. It can shed some light on possible hidden passions! Gaining experience in a field you want to excel in can develop a range of skills you may not acquire if you’re struggling and feeling stuck. Plus, helping others through volunteering is an excellent way to increase your confidence in the workplace and in everyday life.

If you are interested in volunteering at Cross Training Center, please call (402) 590-2100 or visit www.crosstc.com/volunteer to learn more about all the opportunities available.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Amplify Arts’ Alternate Currents Program Focuses on Arts and Climate Justice in 2020

Midlands Community Foundation to Host 39th Annual Golf Tournament

Amplify Arts’ Alternate Currents program opens s p a c e fo r c o n ve r s a t i o n , ideation, and action around national and international discussions in the arts that have a profound impact at the local level. Since its launch in July 2019, Alternate Currents program has explored topics such as Arts and Economic Growth, Arts and Urban Development, and Arts and Labor. Blog posts in 2020 are being sponsored by Verdis Group and will focus on issues and solutions at the cross section of the Arts and Climate Justice. The most recent entry, Before Parks by 2019 Artist Support Grant recipient Corson Androski, explores photography, conservation, and colonialism through the lens of the often glorified history of America’s National Parks. New content is added regularly and the public is encouraged to add their voice to the discussion in the comments section.

Midlands Community Foundation will host its 39th annual golf tournament at Platteview Golf Club on Monday, August 17, with a shotgun start at noon. There may be some adjustments made to the tournament due to the coronavirus pandemic and social distancing guidelines at that time.

Proceeds for the tournament will benefit Cass County CASA, Sarpy County CASA, Lift Up Sarpy, and the fire and rescue departments and/or districts in Sarpy and Cass counties (Avoca, Bellevue, Elmwood, Gretna, Louisville, Manley, Murdock, Murray, Nehawka, Papillion LaVista, Plattsmouth, Springfield, and Weeping Water).

Sponsorship opportunities are available. The $150 participant registration fee includes golf, sack lunch, two chances to win a $250 gift card in a putting contest, two mulligans, two complimentary beverages, and ice cream.

The mission of the Midlands Community Foundation is to benefit the diverse needs of the Sarpy and Cass county communities by providing financial support, involvement, and service. To register for the golf tournament or to learn more about the organization, call (402) 991-8027 or visit www.MidlandsCommunity.org.

Amplify Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that promotes unity, innovation, and progress in the arts to build strong and vibrant communities. Contact Program Director Peter Fankhauser at peter@amplifyarts.org with questions about Alternate Currents or visit www.amplifyarts.org/alternate-currents to view the blog, where you will find essays, interviews, panel discussions, and more.

American Heart Association to Host Omaha Go Red for Women® Expo September 29 The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, announced the 2020 Omaha Go Red for Women® Expo to support the fight to end heart disease and stroke in women will be held on Tuesday, September 29, at the Embassy Suite La Vista. Themed “Watch Me Go Red,” and presented locally by Methodist Health System, the event’s Honorary Event Chair is Cynthia Milligan and the Circle of Red co-chairs are Karen Hawkins and Melissa Marvin.

The Association is working diligently to provide reliable, sciencebased information for the approximately 120 million people in the United States who currently have one or more cardiovascular conditions and who already may be at higher risk for COVID-19 complications.

For women, this is vital as nearly half (48%) of women in the United States age 20 and up have some form of cardiovascular disease. For those living with heart disease or having survived a stroke, preventing the virus is key.

The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and is designed to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death for women in the United States, as well as generate funds for lifesaving cardiovascular research for women. In fact, the Association is fast-tracking a special $2.5 million fund for rapid response scientific research projects to investigate the specific cardiovascular implications of coronavirus, investing in shortterm projects that can turn around results quickly (within 9–12 months). To register and get more information, visit www.heart. org/OmahaGoRed. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Open Door Mission Delivers Food, Diapers to 2,800+ via Drive-Thru Service on June 13 Open Door Mission handed out fresh vegetables and fruit, frozen meats, and diapers to more than 2,800 people via a drive-thru service on their campus June 13. In conjunction with Farmers to Families Food Box Program, C&C Produce, and City Serve—which combined to provide the produce boxes—Open Door Mission delivered the COVID-19 relief resources to area residents who are in need before its resource locations reopen.

“Since our outreach centers are still closed, we wanted to make sure that the people we usually serve at our outreach centers, plus many new families, could get crucial food-pantry items and diapers,” said Open Door Mission President/CEO Candace Gregory. “The drive-thru service offered us a chance to social distance and safely put food in cars. We are so thankful to our partners that made it possible to get fresh fruits and vegetables and other needed items into the hands of people in our community who need it most.”

Open Door Mission is a Gospel Rescue Mission that was founded in 1954 and is committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness and poverty. Each day, Open Door Mission’s campus in Omaha offers 917 safe, shelter beds to people experiencing homelessness, serves more than 4,750 nutritious meals to the hungry, and provides homeless preventive resources to more than 1,000 people living in poverty to empower them to remain in their own homes. To donate to the Mission or for more information, visit www. opendoormission.org or contact Kristen Dineen at (402) 829-1538 / kdineen@opendoormission.org.

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HEALTH NEWS American Red Cross Testing all Blood Donations for COVID-19 Antibodies

Physicians Thrive Named Omaha Chamber’s Small Business of the Month

For a limited time, the American Red Cross is testing all blood, platelet, and plasma donations fo r C OV I D - 1 9 a n t i b o d i e s, providing donors insight into w h e t h e r t h ey h a v e b e e n exposed to this coronavirus. At the same time, there continues to be an urgent need for blood donations, as hospitals resume surgeries and treatments that require blood products. Antibody testing will indicate whether each donor’s immune system has produced antibodies to this coronavirus, regardless of whether they developed symptoms. Donations will be tested using samples pulled at the time of donation and sent to a testing laboratory, where they will also undergo routine infectious-disease testing.

The Greater Omaha Chamber recently named Physicians Thrive the Small Business of the Month for June 2020. Physicians Thrive was recognized due to their tendency to go above and beyond to earn and keep clients’ trust as well as their commitment to world health.

Physicians Thrive assists physician-clients with a variety of financial services such as taxes, retirement and debt repayment planning, disability insurance, and contract review services. They have served physicians at over 400 medical centers, hospitals, and medical schools. They pride themselves on helping their clients grow in their professional and personal lives.

In recent years, two of Physicians Thrive’s leaders, Justin Nabity and Reid Lancaster, created the nonprofit Give Sight Global. Together, the two organizations created the Give Sight app which equates calories burned towards dollars donated to providing life-changing cataract surgery and glasses to cure blindness in underserved areas of the world. Every 120 calories burned equals $1 matched by a financial partner. Download the Give Sight app today to join the fight against blindness.

To learn more about Physicians Thrive, go to physiciansthrive.com.

You can also contact them directly at (877) 744-9474 / info@ physiciansthrive.com.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized the test for emergency use, and the American Red Cross is not testing donors to diagnose illness / diagnostic test. A positive antibody test result does not confirm infection or immunity, and COVID-19 antibody test results will be available within 7-10 days via the Red Cross Blood Donor App or donor portal at www.RedCrossBlood.org.

Every day, the American Red Cross is active in the community, serving those in need. Visit redcross.org or call 1-(800) REDCROSS to support Red Cross efforts by volunteering, donating financially, or giving blood.

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HEALTH NEWS

LIFE ISN’T ON A SCHEDULE.

Nebraska Hospital Association Collaborates with State Hospitals for Virtual Series

WHY SHOULD YOUR WORKOUT BE?

The Nebraska Hospital Association (NHA), in collaboration with 30 state hospital associations, has begun offering a dynamic virtual speaker series labeled Leadership and Resiliency: Navigating Through and Beyond COVID-19 to its members and affiliates.

These one-hour webinars are held every other Thursday, noon–1 p.m., from June 25 through September 3. These sessions are conducted using Zoom and recordings are available for a limited time for later playback.

No class times!

Try a free workout with one of our trainers today!

The speakers in this series are nationally recognized experts in their respective fields and provide valuable perspectives on leadership in the wake of COVID-19. These sessions are available for continuing education credits (Nursing - ANCC and Executive - ACHE Qualified).

Nebraska Hospital Association Services is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Nebraska Hospital Association. Designed to reduce health care expenses, NHA Services is a collaboration among the NHA, NHA member hospitals, and other Nebraska health care organizations and providers. To find out more about NHA services, go online to www.nebraskahospitals.org or contact Heather Bullock at hbullock@nebraskahospitals.org for questions regarding registration.

DGMD Medical Introduces Award-Winning Vitality Institute Peels to Correct Skin Flaws DGMD Medical recently announced it is providing a new aesthetic service— Vitality Institute (VI) Peels. The awardwinning VI peel helps correct skin conditions including acne, scarring, hyper-pigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles, thus improving the overall quality, tone, and texture of skin. The line includes five different peels, all of which are safe for all skin types and tones and can be used in combination therapy with DGMD’s many other services to achieve optimum results for clients.

VI Peels are made of a combination of alpha and beta hydroxyl acids, but contain no glycolic acid. As a result, they are reported to be less painful than traditional chemical peels. The ingredients in VI Peels are said to act deeper below the skin surface, which leads to more dramatic and longer-lasting results. The five new VI Peels include: • Original, for first-time clients or sensitive skin • Purify, for acne- or breakout-prone skin • Purify with Precision Plus, for acne with hyperpigmentation and acne scarring • Precision Plus, for hyperpigmentation, melasma, and uneven skin tone • Precision, for anti-aging, wrinkles, fine lines, and body peels Led by Dr. Daniel Gross, DGMD Medical grew out of a desire to provide a boutique experience in a medical setting and avoid the “one-size-fitsall” mentality. DGMD Medical also specializes in hair-restoration services, including ARTAS® Robotic Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), which harvests individual hair follicles one at a time. DGMD Medical is located in Omaha at 1501 Jackson St., STE 100. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call (402) 999-2329, email info@DGMDmedical.com, or visit www.DGMDmedical.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

402.415.2970 | 304 Olson Dr, Ste 109 | Papillion, NE 68046 @9RoundOfficial | 9Round.com

Nebraska Safety Council Offers Health Coaching Directly for Purchase by Individuals Nebraska Safety Council has announced that they are now offering health coac hing directly for purchase by individuals.

Now more than ever, individuals are facing challenges that make achieving goals or maintaining healthy behaviors hard. The Nebraska Safety Council’s ACE-certified health coaches can help you tap into critical motivators, provide accurate information, and facilitate positive behavior changes. During the pandemic, all coaching sessions are being held telephonically. Get three, 20-minute sessions for $65. It’s simple, just sign up online at bit.ly/nesc-coach.

The Nebraska Safety Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit headquartered in Lincoln. Their mission is to empower people to live safe and healthy lives. Learn more by contacting Lisa Henning at (402) 483-2511 ext.

109 / lhenning@nesafetycouncil.org.

Cox Business’s Trapollo Launches Telehealth Solution for Omaha Private, Group Practices Trapollo, a Cox Business company, announced June 16 that it will provide private and group physician practices in Omaha with a telehealth solution to continue to operate in this difficult time and maintain critical patient relationships. Trapollo’s telehealth solution is free for 90 days for eligible practices, ensuring local physicians can deliver vital patient care while practicing social distancing.

With Trapollo’s telehealth solution, private and group practices will be equipped with a HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform that enables two-way video for patient consultations, centralized patient scheduling, and messaging capabilities to access critical care and receive referrals to specialized care. Patients can access real-time chat, video and audio capabilities via an easy-to-use web platform/portal to get the care they need from the comforts of home.

“As telehealth becomes the new normal for non-emergency patient care, Trapollo is making at-home healthcare a reality for independent practices that previously couldn’t afford telehealth technology or found it too cumbersome to implement,” said Mike Braham, Trapollo senior vice president and general manager.

Trapollo is a human-centric, leading end-to-end, connected healthcare company focused on improving patient care by mobilizing clinical engagement. They help to accelerate their customers’ visions of connected healthcare, providing world-class program design and consulting, integrated clinical applications, and program operations and support.

The Trapollo telehealth solution will be available initially in Omaha, with future cities to follow. More information is available at md.trapollo.com.

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Commercial • Residential Call today! (402) 215-1914

Residential Remodel

Turning Your House into Your Dream Home You’re probably a little antsy from being stuck at home, so what better time to spruce things up and transform your house into your dream home? Whether you’re considering adding another room onto your house, putting up a garage or shop on your property, redecorating the interior or exterior of your home, or just remodeling your kitchen or a bathroom, there are plenty of local outlets to help you with your next residential remodeling project. We picked the brains of about 10 professionals in Omaha—from the banks that provide loans for your projects to contractors, home techonology experts, bathroom remodeling specialists, and electric, heating, and plumbing gurus—to get you the advice you need to get started.

Rounding Up the Funds Unless you’ve been saving your money like a rock star, you’ll probably be looking to take out a loan to finish any substantial remodeling project, and

WHAT WOULD YOU DO WITH A LOWER MORTGAGE PAYMENT? Call today to see if refinancing now would put more money in your pocket.

Call to schedule an appointment or visit us online at lincolnfed.com Omaha | Blair | Fremont

Dave Arkfeld 402-880-8687

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Mary Byrnes 402-515-8024

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there are a number of ways you can approach it. The choice you make will depend on a number of things, including the size and estimated cost of the entire project and the amount of equity you have in your house.

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank Senior Vice President and Chief Lending Officer Dan Walker said they offer three primary lending tools for funding a residential remodeling project, including home equity lines of credit, home equity loans, and construction loans.

“If you’re looking to work on a long-term project and need flexibility to continue to draw money out as you go along, a home equity line of credit might be a good choice for you— especially for smaller projects, when you don’t know the full cost out of the gate,” Dan said.

Dan Walker “We have equity lines of credit available with Lincoln Federal a five-year draw period, so you can draw on Savings Bank the credit line throughout that period until you get everything done. At the end of five years, the outstanding balance is amortized over 15 years.”

A second option is a home equity loan. While the line of credit basically works like a credit card, the home equity loan gets you the money upfront, but you have to start paying it back immediately.

“It’s for a specific project with a set cost,” Dan said. “For example, if you have $100,000 in equity and want new windows, you can get the amount you need to complete the project, so the home equity loan works well. It’s a separate loan from your mortgage, usually in a second-lien position, with a separate payment.”

The third option is for the biggest of remodeling projects—the demolitionto-reconstruction types of jobs that require a general contractor and can cost as much as several hundred thousand dollars. A construction loan requires significant monitoring and costs on the bank’s side and home equity lines of credit and loans typically involve more risk for the bank, so the interest rates on these lending tools generally are a bit higher than a traditional mortgage loan. For example, mortgage rates hit some of the lowest rates ever in June 2020, at about 2.5% and lower for 15-year terms and less than 3% for 30-year loans. That compares to interest rates in the 4.5% range for construction and equity loans and credit lines.

Dan’s biggest piece of advice is not to try to do residential remodels on your own: “Hire a pro,” he said. “Let a contractor come in and line up the subcontractors and get everything done to code. It’s going to be done quicker and better in nearly every case, and you’re just not going to save much, if any, money by trying to be your own general contractor.”

Technology Trends Home technologies are ever-changing and ever-improving, and Echo Systems has expert hands on the pulse of every latest-and-greatest going. As the region’s leader in residential and commercial technology and lighting, the company offers entertainment and lifestyle solutions, including systems that provide audio, video, home theaters, home #PrintProudDigitalSmart

automation, and much more—and from the onset of the COVID crisis, attention to technology has reached new heights.

“The COVID crisis has forced many homeowners to take a much closer look at perceived inadequacies in their homes,” said Doug Dushan, sales and marketing manager at Echo Systems. “Dependence on technology is at an all-time high, and with the advent of restrictions on public gatherings, demand for backyard amenities have been on the rise.”

Echo Systems is the region’s largest residential audio-visual company and the 30th largest in the world! That makes them uniquely capable of responding to clients’ needs 24 hours a day, Doug Dushan and as clients depend on online meetings to Echo Systems conduct business these days, the company’s rapid and remote support has been critical. Also in line with socialdistancing concerns, Echo Systems has developed a service whereby clients can have preconfigured landscape speaker systems delivered to their door or simply set up in their backyards for a trial period, with no human contact required. For clients who are permitting entry into their homes, Echo Systems has seen increased demand for improvements in home-entertainment systems, such as surround sound and home theaters.

More concealed technologies are popular now, too.

“Hidden technology seems to be the rage,” Doug said. “Samsung’s Frame TV has been extremely popular, but many residents don’t know that it is just scratching the surface on items that can blend into their environment. If your home’s aesthetic is important to you, be sure to involve a professional from the start.”

Cash-Out Refinancing Since the COVID quarantine started, Centris Federal Credit Union has witnessed a significant increase in applications for first mortgages, as the interest rates dropped to all-time lows. The largest percentage of the applications has been for refinancing of mortgages, many of which include adding money for home improvements.

“If you have equity in your house, now is a great time to do a loan to renovate your home,” said Assistant Vice President of Retail Financial Services Kasha Wilson. “With first mortgages, the type of loan we would provide is a cash-out refinance to build the monies to do your remodel.”

If you want to increase the valuation of your home, some remodeling projects add more value to your home than others.

“You can never go wrong with updating the Kasha Wilson curb appeal of your property,” Kasha said.

Centris Federal “Kitchens, bathrooms, and finishing basements Credit Union also give you an extra boost in your property value. Kitchens are a great way to add value to your home, especially in aesthetics that make it more updated and appealing to buyers.”

Whatever your motivation for remodeling, Kasha warns that it’s important to take care in hiring the right contractor for your particular job: “When you’re checking out contractors, make sure to ask for examples and testimonials from other clients they’ve worked with on projects. It is not a bad idea to verify their company rating on a website, such as the Better Business Bureau. Make sure you get several bids from different companies for the project you want to undertake. Lastly, do not pay for the entire project at the beginning. It is good to give a deposit for materials, pay another portion midway through the work, and then a final payment once the work is completed.”

Big Changes without Disruptions Bathroom remodels are on-trend in 2020, but you don’t have to remodel the entire room—or disrupt your life for days or weeks—to make tremendous upgrades in your bathroom’s visual and functional characteristics. Bath Fitter has more than 35 years of experience #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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installing the bathtub you’ve always wanted to upgrade the look of your bathroom…and quickly!

“We specialize in tub solutions and tub-toshower conversions that can be completed in as little as a day in most cases,” said Brandon Delaney, branch manager of Bath Fitter in Omaha. “We offer a better way to replace your bathtub and cover encompassing walls, plus add new bathroom fixtures. Clients are constantly amazed at how quickly we can make their entire bathrooms look completely new and modern.”

Bath Fitter’s acrylic bathtub liners go over your existing tub, eliminating the need for tub Brandon Delaney removal, so there is no demolition required. The Bath Fitter company also can convert your tub to a shower area, per your preference or if you need to achieve easier access. You can also choose from their collection of faucets, shower rods, soap dishes, ceilings, wainscoting, and more to achieve the look you’re going for.

“I’m so grateful for the opportunity to bring a home solution to people in Omaha that doesn’t require disturbing their lives or draining their pocketbooks,” Brandon said. “The customers we serve are always impressed with the quickness of our process, the look of the final product, and how we make sure to clean up when the job is done.”

Enhancing Your Curb Appeal When you’re looking for professionals to help you with your remodel, be sure to consider Morton Buildings, because repairs and renovations are one of its specialties. Regional Service Manager Corey Lindeland said their Corey Lindeland 0990a_Morton Ad_55.qxp_Layout 1 6/4/20 4:32 PMextensive Page 1 on-the-job service specialists boast Morton Buildings

experience and vast knowledge to ensure that their customers are satisfied when their work is complete. Morton has found that making exterior upgrades has become increasingly trendy in the remodeling world, which bodes well for the company, as their specialties include steel-roof replacements, steel siding, and skylight installations. From a small garage to an elaborate workshop to a home upgrade, Morton Buildings are one of a kind, customized, designed, and constructed to suit your specific needs and design preferences.

“Using the latest superior construction materials, Morton provides a wide variety of exterior service options that will provide the boost your home or building needs,” Corey said. “Whether you’re looking for new siding, wainscot, doors, or a roof that utilizes Morton’s time-tested Hi-Rib steel, Morton will deliver on the promise to make your home or building feel like new all over again. Morton will work its magic on all brands of buildings, too. Even if you didn’t build a Morton from the start, we’ll be happy to provide the repair or renovation you need!”

Corey offers a word of caution for anyone considering remodeling their home—especially first-timers: “Talk to a professional first to ensure you completely understand the services they will provide and what your responsibility will be.”

Fencing It All In Another popular remodeling trend that will boost your home’s curb appeal is fencing. Whether your old fence is worn out and coming apart at the seams, you want a whole new look, or you want to put a fence around your yard for the first time, Fierro Fence is there to help! Owner Jake Fierro takes customer service and craftsmanship very seriously, so you’re sure to be happy with the process, the high-quality materials he uses, and the final product.

“I am very customer-oriented,” Jake said. “When someone calls, as the owner, I answer the phone and deal with customers directly from the start through to the finish. I’m also very on-task with my schedule, so I won’t schedule more than a couple of weeks out. I don’t want people waiting months to get their fence done, and we always finish on-schedule, too.”

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A listing of GC licenses available at mortonbuildings.com/licenses. Ref Code 043

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Trending materials include wood, and Fierro Fence uses only the highestquality products, including red cedar. Also popular are PVC fences, which come in various colors, including white, tan, and a dark-gray adobe.

Finally, if you’re looking for something a little more luxurious, you might want to consider black steel fencing, which you can get in 4-, 5-, and 6-foot options.

Because Fierro Fence uses only top-of-the-line materials, they come with tremendous warranties, including a lifetime warranty on steel fencing and a 25-year warranty on PVC. Plus, Jake adds a one-year craftsmanship warranty and will take care of your fence if anything related to building quality were to happen during the first year.

Budgeting Wisely Cornhusker Bank has witnessed increases in loan applications for residential remodeling since COVID struck, and Vice President and Manager of Mortgage Lending Mike Barrett said cash-out refinancing is an excellent lending tool for remodeling projects: “We have seen an increase in loan applications for remodeling lately as some homeowners have had more flexible schedules and have the time to plan or begin projects. Long-term interest rates are at historical lows, so a cash-out refinance is a great option because Mike Barrett you can add cash on to your loan as you Cornhusker Bank refinance to fund your projects.”

Of course, there are other lending products for financing a remodel, including home equity loans and lines of credit.

“Traditionally, the most common avenue to finance a home improvement is a home equity loan or a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC),” Mike said. “These also are very attractive of late because they are typically tied to the prime interest rate, which is at an all-time low.”

Some remodeling projects can add value to your home, with the ones that tend to generate the highest returns including adding a wood deck, replacing windows, and making kitchen and bathroom upgrades. Just be sure to budget wisely.

“Regardless of how you finance your remodeling project, one excellent piece of advice is to stay within your budget,” Mike said. “The best way is to figure out how much you can afford to spend, and then allot 80% of that sum to your project. Save the additional 20% for contingencies, including unforeseen problems that may arise.”

Plumbing with Aplomb If you’re thinking about remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, adding on to your home, or you just need to overhaul outdated plumbing throughout your home, it’s crucial that you hire professionals who can do the work right the first time. Big Birge Plumbing is a great place to start. It’s a reputable Omaha company that focuses on both high-quality, professional work and the best customer service.

“We pride ourselves on honesty and truly caring about the results we deliver,” said Co-owner Lallenia Birge. “A lot of people and owners say they care, but we deepdown want to do the right thing and always have. We hire the people on our team who are honest, hardworking, qualified, and care about others.”

Big Birge Plumbing handles all types of residential plumbing services, including repairs and remodeling. Whether you need help with the entire project or just Lallenia Birge certain aspects, their team of experienced Big Birge Plumbing Omaha plumbers can help. Remodeling services include installations of everything from drains to faucets, sinks, grease traps, pipes, sewer lines, sump pumps, toilets, and water heaters. In addition, Big Birge will help design and plan your plumbing remodeling projects to yield the most efficient and effective upgrades with the function and the look you envision. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

“When you decide to remodel your home or invest in an addition, there are many aspects of the project that should be handled by a professional,” Lallenia said. “While there may be some steps of the job you could attempt on your own, you are better off leaving it in the hands of experienced service professionals who know how to handle installations according to code. When you trust our family-owned and operated company for the plumbing needs of your remodel, you can count on us to go the extra mile to ensure you are happy with the finished product. We aren’t satisfied unless you are!”

Taking Advantage of Equity If you own a home and you’re looking for a way to pay for that roof repair, or for upgrades you’ve been wanting to make— maybe putting in a pool—West Gate Bank Vice President and Consumer Loan Manager Nancy Johnson said a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) might be the right financial product for you to consider. With socialdistancing recommendations keeping people at home more, she said lots of folks are making the time to check off some of those projects that they been putting off, so home equity lines of Nancy Johnson credit have been quite popular of late.

West Gate Bank “A Home Equity Line of Credit is a great product because it gives you the flexibility to access money when you need it,” Nancy said. “You might not know the exact cost of all of the upgrades you want to complete over the period of the credit line—five years, for example—so you can decide as you go what fits into your budget and your list of priorities.”

The amount you can access or draw upon from a HELOC will be based on the amount of equity you have in your home, among other considerations.

When your upgrades are complete or your credit-line expires, West Gate will amortize the amount you spent for you to pay out over a number of years following.

A time to plan.

A time to stay connected.

As a part of your community for over 16 years, it’s important to us we don’t stop now. Take a moment to learn more about our online design tool and book your free virtual consultation with one of our experts at designyourownbath.com We’re here to help.

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“Current rates on home equity lines are a bit lower than other loans since they are a variable-rate product that fluctuates with the prime rate,” Nancy said, “so it’s a great time to get started on that to-do list you keep putting off. Of course, be certain that you get multiple estimates if you’re considering a remodel, and talk to your banker to identify the best financing route for your particular situation.”

Electrifying Upgrades When you’re preparing to complete a remodel in your home, don’t forget to strategize your energy needs and upgrades, with an eye toward maximizing energy efficiency and functionality for the long term.

To accomplish this, you’ll want to be sure to hire a professional who can ensure that your electric upgrades are compliant with all codes and are safe for you and your family. Langer Electric is a good place to start, and they can update you on all of the dramatic changes and options in lighting and electrical technologies that will enhance your remodeling project.

“The hottest trend is upgrading everything to LED,” said Owner Chris Langer. “It seems like they keep coming out with easier products to install. It’s not such a big, bulky product anymore. Plus, LED’s use 90% less electricity than the standard incandescent bulb, so you’re getting more light for less power. Also, Wi-Fi switches are continually improving. People can install and control everything throughout their house, including security cameras. It’s like a onestop shop that can all be controlled through an app on an iPad or phone. It’s becoming almost Chris Langer standard these days to have 24/7 surveillance of your home sent right to your phone.”

Langer Electric Langer is a licensed, bonded, and insured electrical company serving the Omaha region. They pride themselves on delivering exceptional customer service and building relationships with customers.

Creating Comfort There’s nothing like having your home at the perfect temperature— YOUR perfect temperature, that is. If you’re constantly nudging your thermostat back and forth to maintain a consistent room temperature, you might consider “remodeling” your heating and air-conditioning systems.

Getzschman Heating has everything you need to achieve seamless heat and cooling management to make your home your true comfort zone.

They offer G-Verify testing and system efficiency diagnostics to ensure your installation or upgrade runs at its best.

“We do a test drive for every installation we do,” said Scott Getzschman. “We use a program that’s called G-Verify, and we verify that your system is installed and tested before and after to make sure it is running at the same efficiency that is recommended by the manufacturer. With this program, we make sure that when it’s up and running, it’s not only safe and comfortable but that you’re going to receive the full benefit of the efficiency that you paid for.”

Getzschman offers a 100% customerScott Getzschman satisfaction guarantee that they back in Getzschman Heating writing, and all of their G-Force technicians are highly trained and background-checked. They provide free estimates on equipment replacement, and you can talk to a real person 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. What’s more, Getzschman can handle your financing needs, and they are fully licensed, bonded, and insured.

“We’re the company that you can trust with your house keys,” Scott said.

The possibilities for transforming a room in your home or overhauling your entire interior or exterior are endless, and you can achieve your dream home, even if you don’t know yet what that looks like. That’s because there are so many experts in Omaha who can walk you through every step from conception to completion. Go after your dreams!

A 4315 South 120th St. P 402.334.4900 W echosystemsmidwest.com

Brighter Days Ahead.

Imagine a home where innovation is seamlessly integrated to fit your lifestyle, a home and outdoor space that are customized to enhance your everyday life. The future is here, and Echo Systems is passionate about bringing the convenience and ease of smart technology into your space.

Echo Systems specializes in integrating state-of the-art audio/visual systems and automated lighting and shade technology into your home and everyday life. Schedule a tour of our Experience Center and marvel at what is possible!

Residential Control Systems | Lighting Control | Private Theater | Audio & Visual Solutions | Electronic Shading

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

Industry Leader in Post-Frame Manufacturing & Construction Morton Buildings, headquartered in Morton, IL, is the industry leader in post-frame manufacturing and construction. At Morton, the difference is in the details. From their cuttingedge innovations, best-in-class warranty, to their craftsmen in the field, Morton Buildings is dedicated to surpassing expectations. Their legacy of excellence in construction spans more than a century and more than a quarter-million satisfied customers.

The Waverly office, located at 12055 Hwy 6, has been serving Omaha and surrounding areas since the early 1970s. As the Omaha and Lincoln areas have grown over the years, so has Morton Buildings. The office has been able to still service the agricultural community while adapting and evolving to meet other local community and business needs. The local organizations that Morton employee-owners are involved with include the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce, Home Builders Association of Lincoln, and a variety of community charitable organizations.

The roots of the company go back to 1903, when Interlocking Fence Company was formed by John Getz, Sr., who began manufacturing high-quality woven wire fencing. The business soon grew into a small mail order business and maintained 14 retail stores in the state of Illinois to service the ever more sophisticated farming industry. The company then began manufacturing grain handling and storage products that made the task of increasing farm productivity easier for their customers.

After WWII, farm mechanization exploded both in size and scope. As farm machinery began to grow in size and utilization, the need to house and protect the farm machinery and provide livestock shelter began to grow exponentially. In 1963, Henry A. Getz became president and started restructuring the company to focus on expanding the building business, which culminated the name change to Morton Buildings, Inc. in 1965.

Most early pioneers of post-frame construction promoted the structure as a low-cost product with a limited-life application.

Henry saw the opportunity differently. By emphasizing quality, improved appearance, and value over cost, the company was able to differentiate itself from all others by initiating innovations such as custom roll-formed steel panels with its anti-syphon groove (as compared to galvanized corrugated metal used by others), square posts (as compared to round uneven posts), colored steel, overhangs, and wainscoting over protective liners. As the company experienced rapid growth, it resisted the temptation to sacrifice quality.

Today, another differentiator of the company is the integrated design and construction services of Morton designBUILD®.

The most effective and most popular method used to deliver construction projects in America is the design-build approach.

This approach means that one entity, the design-builder, enters into a single contract with the owner to provide both design and construction services.

The benefits of sole-source responsibility that Morton designBUILD offers include: • Greater cost efficiencies with fewer change orders • Earlier knowledge of total project costs • Shared responsibility for the design, budget and schedule • Quicker project delivery through superior collaboration Working with the client and local Morton sales consultant, Morton designBUILD is a dedicated team of architects, project managers, engineers, drafting technicians, project estimators, and construction management professionals, that all utilize the same four-phase project delivery system process to deliver commercial projects that meet clients’ scope, schedule, and budget.

Morton’s commercial portfolio includes animal care facilities, churches and activity centers, equestrian facilities, fire stations and municipal buildings, offices, financial institutions, O&M facilities, restaurants, breweries, wineries, schools, retail spaces, and wedding venues.

For more information, please contact the office at (402) 786-3000 or visit www.mortonbuildings.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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supporting Nonprofits COVID-19 has placed an enormous burden on local nonprofits. Over the past several months, Omaha nonprofits have been forced to shut down their events and fundraisers while also suffering heavy losses in their volunteer count. While most organizations have embodied that Nebraska heartiness, cheerily vowing to continue doing their good work for the community, it has nevertheless injured their efforts.

According to a survey of 231 Nebraska nonprofits conducted by Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM), these nonprofits have collectively lost over $42 million since the pandemic started in March. The late April poll revealed that 81% of Nebraska nonprofits have had to significantly alter their budgets to adjust for the economic impact, and 74% reported that the burden disrupted their services to clients and communities.

Nebraska boasts a rich network of nonprofits that add vibrancy and life to our communities and neighborhoods. While COVID-19 has hurt us all in various ways, the nonprofits that selflessly work to keep Nebraska a safer, kinder, and more artistic place have suffered the worst. Studies show that when economic turmoil hits, nonprofits feel the hurt immediately, and they stay down for longer. This means that these nonprofits that make Nebraska Nebraska may run stagnant if we as a community don’t pitch in to lift them up.

We were very encouraged to see the outpouring of generosity this year during Omaha Gives! on May 20. In fact, the donor response hit a record high with 23,375 individuals giving a total of $8.5 million through 65,160 donations to 1,010 nonprofits.

Not only do local nonprofits help enrich Nebraskan life, but they also create jobs and give workers, volunteers, and donors alike a connection to something greater than themselves.

At Strictly Business, we believe it is so important to support our local nonprofits. Nonprofit organizations understand the needs of fellow Nebraskans and work to help support causes many of us connect to. Not only do local nonprofits help enrich Nebraskan life, but they also create jobs and give workers, volunteers, and donors alike a connection to something greater than themselves.

When we pitch in to help nonprofits, we’re helping our communities and neighbors and keeping a culture of humanity, art, and philanthropy alive.

Even though many of us as businesspeople have also suffered losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we can still do our part to help the community by investing in our nonprofits in any way we can. It’s important to remember that a business doesn’t have to donate a large sum of money or time in order to make a difference. Hosting fundraisers, participating in a donation drive, even volunteering for a few hours can do wonders to help others and also connect you and your business with others that are making a difference in your community. Not only does giving to a nonprofit help Nebraska and the people who live here, but it will also help your business by building relationships, producing publicity, and opening the door to networking opportunities!

Nebraska’s nonprofits do whatever they can to make our beautiful state an even better place to live, and so we also want to bring awareness to their efforts. In our Supporting Nonprofits feature, we’re choosing to highlight all the amazing things they’ve done and the news they’re choosing to share with everyone throughout the year. Readers should keep these nonprofits in mind when they’re choosing to give back to Omaha this year, as they’re doing astounding things for our city. Whether you choose to donate your own time or to give back through your business, supporting any of these nonprofits will make a positive influence in the lives of fellow Nebraskans.

We’d love to extend a formal thank you to all of the following nonprofits, and applaud them for their work to keep helping Nebraska despite the economic hardship many of them have faced during COVID-19. These nonprofits continue working tirelessly to make Nebraska a better place to live, and we at Strictly Business are so happy to support them.

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OHB (Omaha Home for Boys) has been transforming lives and strengthening the community for 100 years! What began as an orphanage for wayward and neglected boys has grown to an organization serving more than 1,300 youth, young adults, children, and families annually.

OHB’s continuum of care is aimed at empowering individuals and families with the skills and confidence needed to transition from a state of crisis to one of safety and growth. OHB’s programs focus on helping clients achieve self-sufficiency and offer support in the areas of basic life skills, education, employment, housing, transportation, and behavioral and mental health.

As OHB enters its next century, the organization’s commitment to adapt and grow to meet the ever-changing needs of the community continues, thanks to supporters like you. “Together, we can transform a life and strengthen our community!” Learn more at OHB.org or call (402) 457-7000.

You probably know that when a worker is injured on the job, workers’ compensation pays the medical expenses and lost wages.

What you may not know is that workers’ compensation does not take into account the costs of post-secondary education for children of the injured worker. Often, families who have suffered such a tragedy are forced to care for the injured individual and do not have the funding to send their children to college.

Kids’ Chance of Nebraska’s mission is to provide scholarships to children whose parents have suffered a workplace injury or death.

They want to do what their name suggests: Give the kids a chance.

One way they accomplish this is through their annual Kids’ Chance Golf Outing. This year’s event is currently scheduled for August 27 at Iron Horse Golf Club in Ashland.

Kids’ Chance of Nebraska is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.

Eligible students and families are encouraged to go to kidschanceofne. org for information, no matter the age of the children. If you are interested in making a donation, go to www.kidschanceofne.org/ make-a-donation.

The mission of the Jennie Edmundson (JE) Foundation is to improve the quality of life by caring for the body and mind. Jennie Edmundson Foundation is the fundraising arm of Methodist Jennie Edmundson (MJE) Hospital. By engaging philanthropic leaders, they are able to help make certain that the equipment, facilities, programs, services, and educational initiatives at JE continue to meet community needs.

The JE Foundation relies on donations and grants from the community.

These funds go to help their Cancer Center, Cardiac Center, Women’s Services, Charitable Patient Care Fund, Medi-Bus Transportation, and Scholarship Funds, to name a few. Generous contributions provide education, care, and services to many who may not otherwise have access to healthcare services. Individual or planned gifts, memorials, or becoming an event or corporate sponsor are also a few ways to help.

Becoming a JE Adult Volunteer gives you the opportunity to be involved in many facets of volunteerism. It is a wonderful way to meet new people, develop new skills and interests, and be rewarded through the experiences of helping patients, family members, and hospital staff.

To find out more about the Jennie Edmundson Foundation and how you can get involved, call (712) 396-6040 or visit www.jehfoundation.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

At the Heartland Hope Mission South Omaha and Millard food pantries, wor king poor families choose a week’s supply of nutritious groceries including milk, frozen meat, and fresh produce to prepare wellbalanced meals at home. However, Heartland Hope Mission is more than a pantry. Clients also receive clothing, hygiene items, diapers, and access to a Client Service Specialist who assists with SNAP (food stamp) applications and navigational services. The Mission’s Jobs Paths Program provides access to current job postings and on-site interviews with employers. The goal is to provide programming and wraparound services to prevent families from becoming homeless and to help people achieve or rebuild self-sufficiency.

Due to COVID-19, Heartland Hope Mission is now serving almost double the amount of families compared to last year. Learn more at heartlandhopemission.org or call (402) 733-2077.

Located in South Omaha, Stephen Center partners with the community, families, and individuals to overcome homelessness, addiction, and poverty. Approximately 250 people call Stephen Center home each day through three programs on a sober campus.

The Pettigrew Emergency Shelter serves men, women, and children experiencing homelessness. The HERO Program (Health, E m p owe r m e n t , Re s p o n s i b i l i t y, a n d Opportunity) is a nationally-accredited, state-licensed substance abuse treatment, and mental health services program providing substance abuse evaluations, in patient services, and intensive outpatient treatment. The third program is Permanent Supportive Housing apartments. These apartments provide affordable housing for those that meet income and disability qualifications. All Stephen Center clients have the support of case managers who assist them with the identification of barriers impeding self-sufficiency. Volunteers play a huge role in Stephen Center’s mission, impacting client lives every day! For more information, visit stephencenter.org or follow on Facebook (@stephencenteromaha).

Did you know...Midlands Community Foundation (MCF) helps donors achieve their philanthropic goals and “Invest in the Power of Community.”

MCF plays an integral part in the community by serving Sarpy and Cass counties in the area of health care, arts, culture, community, economic development, education, and human services. For example, MCF: • Helps provide shelter for the homeless and stocks shelves at the local food banks; • Underwrites scholarships for collegebound students; • Maintains and supports local libraries; • Updates parks and recreational areas; • Provides new technology for schools and nonprofit organizations; • Treats school children to educational field trips; and • Supports and assists in emergency disaster relief for affected victims.

In addition, MCF manages 140 charitable funds that serve an array of needs. This past year, more than $1.3 million has been distributed into the community through these charitable funds, MCF grants, and discretionary gifts.

To learn more, visit www.midlandscommunity.org or call (402) 991-8027.

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CHAD (Combined Health Agencies Drive) is a local, donordesignation driven organization that has been raising funds for Nebraska’s premier health charities since 1972. Through workplace partnerships, they promote charitable giving, employee engagement and wellness, and connect people with health causes they care about.

Formerly Community Health Charities of Nebraska, CHAD works with United Way of the Midlands through a contractual agreement.

Donors who give so generously every year ensure CHAD’s 21 member charities are funded on a consistent basis, and 100% of donordesignated dollars go directly to full-member charities. Valuable donations help Nebraskans in need by providing care and support for those affected by a health diagnosis, funding education and prevention programs in the community, and supporting advocacy and medical research.

Omaha Office: 212 S. 74th St., STE 205 | (402) 614-8500 | www. chadnebraska.org | Social media: @CHADNebraska The mission of the Veterans in Business Forum (VIBF) is to provide business support, education, and advocacy to help veterans succeed in business and increase community awareness of veteran-owned business activities.

Veterans, active duty, reservists, and civilians are welcome to join and support each other and veteran-related goals.

The VIBF meets the first Friday of every month (08000900) and ser ves the Omaha area. However, the group is meeting virtually during the pandemic. Please email info@littlemountainwebdesign.com for details.

Speakers may be from VIBF members, business groups, veteran groups, NBDC, PTAC, SBA, SCORE, or private sector and government agencies on a wide range of topics. VIBF encourages collaboration through networking. Each month, members can bring up issues and concerns to discuss with the group to get recommendations to help come up with effective solutions.

Contact VIBF to learn more by calling Michel Thornhill at (402) 9327243. Mailing Address: VIBF c/o Little Mountain Web Design, P.O. Box 461235, Papillion, NE. Quest Forward Academy is an independent, forwardthinking high school that prioritizes skills along with mastery of academics, empowering success well beyond high school. The Academy uses an intentionally designed digital curriculum that allows students to learn wherever they are without missing a beat. Whether your student is learning in the classroom or at home, they won’t slip through the cracks.

At Quest Forward Academy, students also benefit from: • 7:1 student-to-teacher ratio, • A strong, welcoming community • Project-based learning, • Curriculum with real-world relevance, • Mentoring and a personalized pace, • And 10 years of personalized college and career counseling.

Full and partial scholarships are still available for the 2020-21 school year. Discover for yourself what a forward-thinking education looks like.

To learn more, contact Director of Recruitment Lauren Dombrowski at lauren@questforward.academy or visit www.questforward. academy/omaha.

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Open Door Mission is a Gospel Rescue Mission founded in 1954 committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness and poverty. Each day, Open Door Mission’s campus offers 917 safe shelter beds to homeless men, women, and children; serves over 4,747 nutritious meals; and provides homeless preventive measures to more than 1,000 people living in poverty.

Visit www.opendoormission.org or call (402) 422-1111 to see how you can make a difference in the community.

The mission of the American Red Cross is to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. The Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides emotional support to victims of disasters from home fires to major events such as hurricanes, floods, or tornadoes. About 40% of the nation’s blood needed by patients is supplied by the Red Cross. The organization teaches skills such as CPR and First Aid that save lives. Additionally, the Red Cross provides international humanitarian aid and supports military members, veterans, and their families.

Every day, the American Red Cross is active in the community, serving those in need. Visit redcross.org or call 1-(800) REDCROSS to support Red Cross efforts by volunteering, donating financially, or giving blood.

Rejuvenating Women is a nonprofit organization providing hope and restoration to victims and survivors of human trafficking by empowering survivors to lead healthy, independent lives. They are committed to developing long-lasting relationships with the girls and women who are deeply traumatized.

They raise awareness of human trafficking in Omaha and surrounding communities. Their team of dedicated staff and volunteers invest in the lives of each individual living in the recovery residential home as well as those participating in other programs and services that they offer.

Rejuvenating Women believes in a multidisciplinary team approach and tailoring the best possible care for each survivor and prevention of future human trafficking. Rejuvenating Women also uses curriculum integration which focuses primarily on the different disciplines and the diverse perspectives they bring to illustrate a topic, theme, or issue.

Rejuvenating Women’s short and long-term residential recovery program is free-of-charge to survivors.

Types of programs and services offered: • Tier 1, Short-Term Housing — A multitude of services including case management for new short-term transitional housing assistance for up to 90-days.

• Tier 2, Long-Term Housing — Residential therapeutic program includes, but is not limited to individual and group therapy, case management, mentorship, legal services, tattoo branding removal, equine therapy, occupational therapy services, life-skills classes, and receive comprehensive medical care. This tier requires a commitment to the program for 18–24 months.

• Mentoring Program — One-to-one mentorship program that includes an individualized healthy relationship-building approach.

• Virtual Case Consultation — Created during the COVID-19 crisis.

Case Consultation is done virtually for those unable to physically attend the Rejuvenating Women program.

Learn more about Rejuvenating Women online at rejuvenatingwomen. com or call 1-(800) 402-0601. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally-supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever.

Big Brothers Big Sisters strives 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.

To learn about how to become a Big, make a donation, or other ways to get involved, go to bbbsomaha.org or follow on social media.

The Rose Theater is committed to enriching the lives of children and families through live theater and arts education. With live performances of plays and musicals specifically for children and a wide range of classes designed to inspire budding performing artists, a lifelong love of theater starts at The Rose.

The Rose is one of the largest and most accomplished children’s theaters in the nation. In 2016, American Theatre magazine named The Rose one of the top 20 children’s theaters in the country. The theater presents a variety of familyfriendly productions on its main stage each year. The Rose’s First Stage series features plays specifically for very young children in a smaller, shush-free, sensory-friendly environment. In addition, students from age two to 18 can participate in performing arts classes such as creative drama, dance, musical theater, acting, voice, and more.

For more information, visit www.rosetheater.org or call (402) 345-4849.

Angels Among Us provides financial assistance to families whose children are battling pediatric cancer. Any family living in or being treated in Nebraska is eligible to apply.

Once approved, families are provided with $500 a month for the length of their entire treatment plan, up to three years, to help them stay financially stable during treatment. Funds are paid directly to the creditor, which ensures that funds are used for their intended purpose. When a child is diagnosed with cancer, a family’s life as they know it comes to an abrupt halt. Unfortunately, their monthly expenses do not. Since 2006, Angels Among Us has assisted over 450 families with over $2 million in support.

There are angels among us. Will you be one? Gifts of any amount are welcome and encouraged. There is strength in numbers. There is also hope, help, and monetary relief. For more information, contact Angels Among Us at (402) 934-0999 or visit the website at www. myangelsamongus.org.

The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum mission is to preserve the history of Strategic Air Command, the Cold War, and aerospace artifacts; and to inspire learning through imaginative, innovative, and inspirational programs and exhibits.

The Museum is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and Smithsonian Affiliate. The Museum is not funded by any government source, relying on the community to help carry out its mission.

The Museum is home to one of the largest collections of Cold War aircraft and artifacts in the U.S. Visitors can view iconic aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft as well as learn about historic leaders and events.

The Museum offers free public tours, family events, an interactive Children’s Learning Center, and educational programs. The Museum’s Education Team and STEM programming supplements public education with field trips, camps, and monthly workshops.

Looking for a thrill? Check out the Museum’s flight simulator or visit their latest temporary exhibit, QUEST! Navigating The World, featuring 20 interactive kiosks exploring travel by land, air, and sea.

There is something for everyone at the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum. Just off I-80 at Exit 426, between Lincoln and Omaha. Learn more about the Museum’s events, rental spaces, membership, and summer camps at SACMuseum.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Established in 1972, Santa Monica House has been providing long-term residential services to thousands of chemically-dependent women, partnering with them on their journey to recovery. The program relies on the disciplines of the 12-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous® while incorporating mental health and trauma treatment along with life skills. Santa Monica provides food, shelter, rehabilitative counseling, job acquisition guidance, and resocialization training. Santa Monica provides a halfway house program, followed by a three-quarters way house program and transitional apartment living. This approach to step-down levels of care for the women provides a more holistic continuum of care. These services will give the women more support as they transition back into the community.

Donations are always valued at Santa Monica and the women benefit from toiletries, clothing, and paper products.

Visit Santa Monica’s new website at www.santamonicahouse.org for more information about the agency, what the future holds, and how to help.

Wear Yellow Nebraska provides ser vice, support, and community for Nebraska’s cancer survivors. Their purpose, from the very beginning, is to bring together people passionate about cycling, celebrating life, and being an advocate in the fight against cancer. Since the organization’s beginning days, Wear Yellow Nebraska has continued to grow and cultivate their mission and vision. In 2012, they launched a free transportation program, which has directed more than $150,000 dollars in providing more than 9,300 cab rides to cancer patients in need.

The Wear Yellow Cab Ride program, Powered by Lyft, is the primary initiative of the organization and is funded by their signature event, Wear Yellow Ride, Run & Walk. Transportation to and from treatment is essential because patients are often unable to drive themselves, which also leaves them vulnerable to additional medical challenges.

Even when patients have family and friends who can help, they are not always available and sometimes they just don’t want to ask for one more thing.

Wear Yellow Nebraska touches lives in Omaha, Fremont, and Lincoln— help them keep growing! Learn more online at WearYellowNebraska.org.

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Omaha Healthy Kids Alliance (OHKA) is a children’s environmental health nonprofit seeking to improve children’s health through healthy homes. Their main goal is to bring awareness and education to families in the city about environmental hazards like asthma and lead poisoning, and how homes can impact health. OHKA believes that education is fundamental for empowering people and creating change. They strive to create environmental equality in Omaha for all by offering education on health hazards in the home, tenant legal rights, environmental testing, and information on the community resources available in the city.

Call the OHKA office at (402) 934-9700 to see how OHKA can help improve the health of your home!

Kids Can Community Center’s mission is to educate, engage, and inspire children through early childhood care and out-ofschool experiences. Kids Can serves children ages 18 months to 13 years old. They offer a variety of programs including early childhood education, before- and afterschool programs, summer and non-school day programs, tutoring, and mentoring. Kids Can utilizes the Creative Curriculum and Handwriting Without Tears activities for their youngest students with the goal of ensuring all students are prepared to enter Kindergarten. School-age children participate in the STEMsmart Academy which focuses on science, technology, engineering, math, strength, music, art, reading, and tutoring supporting well-rounded children.

Founded in 1908 as Social Settlement Association of Omaha, Kids Can has a long history of making a meaningful impact in the community. Kids Can is located on 49th and Q Streets in Omaha.

For more information about Kids Can Community Center, visit KidsCan. org, call (402) 731-6988, or email jgillman@kidscan.org.

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease where a person’s pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone needed to get energy from food. T1D strikes children and adults suddenly and is unrelated to diet or exercise; at present, there is no cure. JDRF works every day to change this reality. As the largest global funder of T1D research, their mission is to improve lives today and tomorrow by accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent, and treat T1D and its complications. You can help make a difference by participating, volunteering, or fundraising.

Events: • Virtual coffee talks and happy hours via Zoom. Visit jdrf.org/ nebraska for upcoming dates.

• JDRF One Walk, Omaha-Council Bluffs – October 3, 2020 Programs: • Advocacy – Advocate for government support of research and policies for affordable and accessible therapies • Empower1 – Connecting the adolescent T1D community • Give Back at School – School education and fundraising opportunities • Outreach – Resources and events for individuals and families • Ride – Destination cycling experience for all fitness levels • YLC – Young professionals raising awareness and funds for T1D Learn more at jdrf.org/nebraska or (402) 397-2873.

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Amplify Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that promotes unity, innovation, and progress in the arts to build strong and vibrant communities. They award $35,000 in grants to local artists each year, and they provide artists with education, connections, and space. Amplify Arts also works to create systemic change in the arts sector by connecting artists, nonprofit organizations, and industry leaders. Part of that work includes connecting local businesses with artists to bring curated or custom works of art into your business space. Every step of their process can be tailored to your unique project needs. If your business is interested in working to bring local art into your space, please contact Amplify Arts by phone at (402) 996-1092 or by email at info@amplifyarts.org. Visit the website at www.amplifyarts.org.

The First Responders Foundation is a social impact organization that directly supports first responders and their families. First responders put their lives on the line for Omaha residents every day to save and protect the people of the community. The mission of the First Responders Foundation is to serve and honor all first responders and their families, build appreciation and respect for their work, and enhance public safety.

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Programming includes: The First Responders Support Team (FRST), mental and emotional well-being programs and support groups; Awards of Excellence Scholarships for first responders children; Appreciation Lunches for first responders; JAVELAN—service dogs for first responders and veterans; Home Safety Program providing smoke/carbon monoxide detectors; Tri County Fire Corps program for youth; Supporting Officers on 4 Legs—K-9, Mounted Patrol, and Alley the Arson Dog. Major events: 9/11 Luncheon of Honor and Guns & Hoses Boxing Challenge.

Your financial gifts help provide programs for local first responders and the community. For information or to volunteer, contact Jodi Teal at jodi@firstrespondersomaha.org / (402) 218-1234. Learn more online at www.firstrespondersomaha.org.

Youth Emergency Services (YES) is the only nonprofit in Omaha with the sole mission to help youth experiencing homelessness and near-homelessness in the community. Last year, YES provided support and services to more than 3,000 youth in the Omaha metro. YES also provided 7,106 meals to youth through their Street Outreach Center. Many of these youth have been physically, emotionally, or sexually abused, making it unsafe for them to return home. Without YES, these vulnerable young people cannot succeed independently.

YES offers a full continuum of care to ensure all youth receive the support they need, no matter their situation. This includes the Street Outreach Center, Emergency Shelter, Transitional Living Program, Maternity Group Home, and a new program for 2020, Rapid Rehousing. Through these programs, YES offers case management, job readiness classes, group activities, support for the LGBTQ+ community, and specialized services for trafficked survivors. To ensure youth are successful once they leave their care, YES requires the youth in their program to set short- and long-term goals; be enrolled in school; have a job, or both; and do community service. For more information about YES’ programs, please visit www.yesomaha.org or call (402) 345-5187. You can also find them on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

CenterPointe began 47 years ago in 1973 as Lincoln Lancaster Drug Projects, also known as Full Circle. Ever since the beginning, CenterPointe has been leading the way in integrated substance use and mental health care. Their mission is to help the individuals they serve get better sooner, for longer. CenterPointe provides 35+ programs including, but not limited to, treatment, rehabilitation, housing, and crisis response. The newest exciting project involves a government grant of $2 million per year for the next two years, which will allow us to become a CCBCH (Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic). This enables CenterPointe to integrate physical healthcare with their already existing behavioral healthcare services. As a nonprofit with a wide range of services, they are always appreciative of financial gifts that help them keep serving the Omaha community with CenterPointe’s Campus for Hope.

The best way to reach CenterPointe is through the website at www. centerpointe.org.

FAMILY, Inc. is an early childhood and public health organization with a mission for empowering families to build a strong foundation and healthy future through education, advocacy, support, and community connection. When parents are empowered and children have the nurturing and support they need, their chances of positively contributing to society as an adult increase.

FAMILY, Inc. provides the right supports and services for each child at the earliest stages of development, prenatally through age five, preparing children to enter school ready to learn. Through early developmental assessment, oral health education, and screening, support to pregnant moms, parenting home visits, care coordination, connections to hawki health insurance, fostering informal support networks, and more, FAMILY, Inc. partners with each family leading to more successful outcomes decades later. What better investment for the future can a community make?

To learn more, visit www.familyia.org or call (712) 256-9566. FAMILY, Inc. can also be found on Facebook (@familyincia), Twitter (@ FAMILYIowa), LinkedIn (@familyinc), and YouTube (FAMILYonYouTube).

Celebrating 125-years, the Aksarben Foundation is a unified network of business and community leaders committed to preserving and expanding prosperity in our heartland communities through advancements in education, wor kforce development, and civic projects born from effective private, public, and philanthropic partnerships.

Since 1895, Aksarben has been bringing Nebraska’s civic-minded families together to celebrate and recognize the spirit of giving in our state with the Aksarben Ball. While the event raises money for the mission and initiatives of Aksarben, the purpose of the event is to convene and honor families committed to the wellbeing of Nebraska.

It is no secret that the past, present, and future success of Nebraska depends on the civic engagement of its citizens. Each year, the highest honor recognized by Aksarben is that of Nebraska’s “Most Honored Citizen(s)”, in which a man, woman, or couple is celebrated for their contributions to the betterment and continued prosperity of Nebraska for all citizens.

To learn more about the Aksarben Foundation, contact info@ aksarben.org / (402) 554-9600 or go online to www.aksarben.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

The Clyde Malone Community Center was founded in 1955 through a reorganization of the Lincoln Urban league. Initially founded during a time in history when civil rights for African American were extremely limited, the league founders, both black and white, were determined to improve social and economic conditions and increase understanding between all races. They believed that enhanced understanding between all groups of people would create a better community.

For decades, the Malone Center has served neighboring families, youth, seniors, and the local community through programs and initiatives that extend well beyond the community center to uphold our mission to end multigenerational poverty. Their holistic community programming reflects their commitment to advancing equality through education, health initiatives, community outreach, advocacy, and leadership development.

For more information about the Clyde Malone Community Center, please visit MaloneCenter.org or call (402) 474-1110.

Founded in 1986, the Papillion La Vista Schools Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that works closely with Papillion La Vista Community Schools (PLCS) to enhance educational opportunities for students and staff by offering opportunities and programs that otherwise would not be possible if only tax dollars were available.

Close ties with PLCS District and surrounding community ensure that the best ideas to support students, teachers, technology, and programs become a reality.

The Foundation upholds this mission by reaching out to staff, parents, alumni, and the community to create financial and supportive resources needed to augment the overall educational experience for Papillion La Vista Community Schools. Immediate and endowed support is provided by donors, alumni, and parents through the Foundation to ensure these opportunities and programs will be available to the District for generations.

To learn more about the Papillion La Vista Schools Foundation, visit plvschoolsfoundation.org or call (402) 829-1340.

Although many people know Goodwill Industries, Inc., Serving Eastern Nebraska and Southwest Iowa, as a place to donate used clothing and household items, they might not know that the organization’s mission is to offer job training and placement services for people with disabilities and other disadvantages or barriers to employment.

Here’s how Goodwill works: Donated items are sold in Goodwill retail stores. The proceeds subsidize the organization’s mission programs, giving thousands of individuals in the Omaha area the chance to earn a living and succeed in life. Goodwill provides opportunities through a variety of employment programs, including YouthBuild AmeriCorps, Employment Solutions, and Work Experience. Goodwill is also affiliated with the federal AbilityOne program, which provides jobs at federal facilities to people with severe disabilities.

Goodwill is a private, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit agency governed by a local board of trustees. It is a member agency of Goodwill Industries International of Gaithersburg, MD, and is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).

For more information about Goodwill’s programs and its 17 convenient locations in Omaha, Bellevue, Papillion, Fremont, Blair, Gretna, and Council Bluffs, please visit GoodwillOmaha.org.

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For over 20 years, Domesti-PUPS has been supporting people in our local, regional, and national communities through the assistance of animals. From therapy dogs in the classroom motivating children to excel in their learning environment to pet therapy visitations in nursing homes, hospitals, and assisted living centers, Domesti-PUPS pet therapy teams bring a bit of brightness through their furry encounters.

Their service dog teams provide increased independence when paired with a disabled partner. These highly-skilled canines can turn on lights, provide balance and mobility, retrieve dropped items, bring a bottle of water from a refrigerator, respond to medical emergencies such as responding to a seizure or alerting to a diabetic high or low, and open doors both literally and figuratively. Some even provide life-saving measures for their disabled partners. Connect by calling (402) 465-4201or go online to www.domesti-pups.org.

Life-changing care…right in your own backyard. Join Boys Town in the business of saving kids and healing families!

For more than 100 years, Boys Town has been serving local communities, both as a good neighbor and a provider of high-quality care and treatment programs. They’ve always taken great pride in being right here when kids and families need them, whether that’s for a child in need of a stable home or a parent looking for a trusted pediatrician for their child.

That’s why the partnership and support of local businesses is so valuable to their mission. Learn more about how you can help Boys Town expand its services so more people in need can experience hope and healing. Call (531) 355-1300, email info@boystown.org, or go online to www.boystown.org.

Parkinson’s Nebraska is committed to strengthening the Parkinson’s community by spreading awareness and connecting families with resources to help them live a quality life with Parkinson’s disease.

They are passionate about overcoming the barriers that Nebraskans affected

by PD encounter along their journey. In collaboration with community partners, they are able to develop and expand innovative Parkinson’s services and increase accessibility in communities across Nebraska. Their goal is to create a community of patients, caregivers, and resources so that the journey of Parkinson’s is “A Journey Shared.”

Better Business Bureau (BBB) has been assisting U.S. consumers and businesses since 1912. It is a nonprofit, business-supported organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior.

Nearly 400,000 BBB Accredited Businesses support BBB’s mission of advancing marketplace trust, and their dues and contributions allow BBB to offer its information and services to consumers at no charge. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Profiles on more than 5.3 million companies, over 11,000 charity reviews, dispute resolution services, alerts and educational information on topics affecting the marketplace.

People today are overwhelmed with choices—and often unsure about where to find verified, unbiased information. There are more than 32 million businesses in North America alone, and hundreds of thousands of sites around the world where people shop online. Also, thousands of free and subscription websites offer a range of information, including: reviews, reports, directories, listings, and gripe sites. BBB is the resource where you can find trusted information. Go to BBB.org or call (402) 391-6712.

They recognize a need for more access to Parkinson’s services and education in rural communities across the state. By developing innovative virtual services such as webinars, online support groups, and exercise classes they are able to provide these services to underserved communities. The new Rural Community Outreach program targets rural areas to identify and meet their unique needs, connect leaders with resources, and promote local community-building. They plan to continue this momentum through 2020 and continue developing innovative ways to identity and meet the needs of the Nebraska Parkinson’s community. Learn more online at www.parkinsonsnebraska. org or call (402) 715-4707.

What began as a mother’s wish to offer a playful respite for her daughter fighting brain cancer has now become a movement to reclaim the innocence and playfulness of childhood for those threatened by the realities of their medical conditions. Bags of Fun are an essential tool that brings the power of play and distraction from pain into the lives of children fighting a life-threatening illness. Each bag of happiness is individually crafted to provide joy, laughter, and relief to children in the fight of their lives—inspiring pediatric patients to be kids and play while they struggle through tough treatments.

It was Gabby Krause’s wish that every child at the hospital could have their own Bag of Fun, and it is an honor to carry out her wish!

Bringing a sense of normalcy, especially during these times, is something everyone could benefit from.

Bags of Fun has been operating for 15 years in Denver and started in Omaha in September 2019, where they have delivered 75 Bags of Fun in eight short months. The nonprofit is excited for what the future has to hold, especially with the immense support they have already experienced in the community. “The body cannot heal without PLAY, the mind cannot heal without LAUGHTER, the heart cannot heal without COMMUNITY.” Visit bagsoffun.org to learn more about the Bags of Fun mission.

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The mission of Cross Training Center is to empower and equip unemployed and undereducated men and women through character development, vocational training, and work experience. The organization exemplifies the message, “If you give a man a fish, you feed him for a day, but if you teach him how to fish, you feed him for a lifetime.”

The students at the Center are youth and adults who are unemployed because of challenging backgrounds and circumstances. They have experienced setbacks in life due to incarceration, homelessness, generational poverty, and other challenging conditions.

Cross Training Center provides vocational training and hands-on work experience so they gain skills and knowledge to overcome the barriers of employment. They are able to acquire a job on a career path and break the cycle of poverty for generations to come.

Students receive real work experience while providing valuable services to the community in the following areas: • Electronics recycling • Computer refurbishing and repair • Computer and electronics retail store • Appliance sales • Automotive maintenance and repair services • Banquet facility Cross Training Center’s mission is to provide “Solutions to Poverty through Work.” Contact Brenda Banks at (402) 590-2100, via email at brenda@crosstc.com, or visit www.crosstc.com for more information. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Assistance League® of Omaha (ALO) is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit service organization whose members identify, develop, implement, and fund ongoing philanthropic programs to serve specific needs of local children and adults in the Greater Omaha area. ALO has purchased and is remodeling a new building to use as offices, meeting areas, and a new thrift shop. Plans are to open in late summer and then donations will be welcomed and ALO invites shoppers to visit the best thrift shop in Omaha. Please keep watch for the opening announcements. The Thrift Shop helps to support ALO’s signature programs, which are Operation School Bell®, Assault Survivor Kits®, Operation Recovery, Operation Bear Hug, Operation Teen Parent, Operation Literacy, and ACT/PSAT Review Sessions. Donations and grants are appreciated.

Assistance League® of Omaha’s new address is 8502 West Center Rd., and their team can be contacted by calling (402) 342-428. Learn more online at Alomaha.org or go to the Facebook page (@assistomaha).

Since 1989, Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy’s (HETRA) mission has been to improve the quality of life both physically and emotionally of adults and children of all ability levels through Equine-Assisted activities. Adaptive Riding, Therapy Services, Carriage Driving, Life Skills, Veterans, and Equine Facilitated Learning programs are at the heart of HETRA’s services. As the only Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH, Intl.) Accredited facility in Nebraska, HETRA employs occupational, mental health, and physical therapists and 16 PATH Intl. Certified Riding Instructors.

Today, despite the obstacles, burdens, and challenges presented by the current COVID-19 Crisis, HETRA continues its 31+ years of dedication and commitment to its participants with the help of over 250 dedicated volunteers who donate over 26,000 hours annually.

HETRA offers year-round programming, works with a herd of over 20 horses, and is situated on 25 beautiful acres in Gretna. Learn more at www.HETRA.org or call (402) 359-8830.

NAMI Omaha is a nonprofit corporation composed of peers, 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 mental illness. 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.

NAMI Omaha offers periodic classes of one of NAMI’s signature programs, including their Family to Family 12-week evidence-based educational course for family, significant others, and friends of people with mental health conditions.

NAMI Omaha also offers support groups for both peers, family, significant others, and friends of people with mental health conditions.

The Connections support groups is another NAMI signature program and offers support for peers with mental health conditions.

NAMI Omaha also hosts monthly affiliate meetings where speakers are invited to speak about current mental health issues in the community, including active state legislature bills, mental health services, alternative forms of mental health treatment, etc.

For additional information, go to www.namiomaha.org or call (402) 345-8101 / (877) 463-6264. For additional information on NAMI Omaha and other helpful articles on mental illness topics, please follow/like on Facebook (@NAMIOmaha). #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Incorporated in 2002, the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) started with the goal of helping nonprofits help their communities. CEO Anne Hindery has led the organization since 2008. “We serve and strengthen more than 650 nonprofits of all sizes and missions in Nebraska and western Iowa. By connecting organizations with information, education, advocacy, and collaboration, we help our members representing health and human services, the arts, education, and other areas make an impact in the communities they serve,” Hindery said.

NAM’s signature Guidelines and Principles Program provides legal compliance and best practices information in 12 major areas of nonprofit management: communication, evaluation, financial management, fundraising, governance, human resources, information technology, planning, public policy and advocacy, strategic alliances, transparency and accountability, and volunteer management. The National Council of Nonprofits, the nation’s largest network of nonprofits, recognizes NAM as the state association for Nebraska. Learn more about NAM at www.nonprofitam.org or call (402) 557-5800.

Nebraska Safety Council’s mission is simple: For more than 60 years they have provided education and leadership to empower people to live safe and healthy lives. The Nebraska Safety Council’s comprehensive programs, training courses, events, and services are designed to improve employee care at a desk, on the production floor, behind the wheel, and off the job. Their unique Worker 360° approach provides integrated risk management to improve overall worker quality of life and positively impact an organization’s bottom line.

Their members include organizations throughout Nebraska and surrounding areas, across a variety of industries. There is no one-size-fitsall option; each company’s safety and wellbeing program is customized for their needs and size.

Demonstrate your commitment to employee safety and health by becoming a member of the Nebraska Safety Council. You will receive access to training, guidance, and resources to establish or enhance your safety and wellness programs and policies.

Providing leadership and resources for a safe and healthy workplace and community, Nebraska Safety Council – (402) 483-2511 / nesafetycouncil.org.

The YMCA of Greater Omaha is dedicated to building healthy, confident, and connected communities through recreation and personal growth while fostering environments that encourage youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

With 10 branch locations, the YMCA provides easy access to youth and adult sports, aquatics, wellness centers, early learning and healthy living centers, group fitness classes, and so much more.

The Strong Communities campaign raises $800,000 every year in donations, helping the YMCA provide $2.3 million in charitable programming, providing memberships and access to those who might not otherwise be able to participate. Over 24,000 Omaha children participate in YMCA youth sports programs, 2,000 kids enjoy summer day camps, 10,000 people have learned lifesaving swim safety education and instruction, and nearly 64,000 families and individuals call the YMCA of Greater Omaha their choice for a healthier lifestyle.

For more information on the YMCA of Greater Omaha and the Strong Communities campaign, visit www.metroymca.org/give.

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The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives—devoted to saving people from two of the nation’s top killers: heart disease (No. 1) and stroke (No. 5).

Powered by millions of volunteers, global and local collaborators, their goal is equitably increase worldwide healthy life expectancy from 64 to at least 67 years by 2030.

Through events right here in Omaha like the Heart Walk, Go Red for Women, and Heart Ball, the American Heart Association is making an impact.

For more information, visit www.heart.org/Omaha.

MENTOR Nebraska is focused on improving the number and quality of mentoring programs available for Nebraska’s youth.

For more than 20 years, MENTOR Nebraska has led the mentoring movement to ensure youth and mentors have access to high-quality mentoring experiences. MENTOR Nebraska does this by raising awareness, standards, and numbers around mentoring. In addition, MENTOR Nebraska provides training, support, technical assistance, and background checks to mentoring programs throughout the state.

MENTOR Nebraska’s vision is for every young person to have the supportive relationships they need to grow and develop into thriving, productive, and engaged adults. For that to happen, they need caring adults like you to volunteer your time. Please help them make a difference in someone’s life. Visit MENTORNebraska.org to learn how you can become a mentor.

Through a growing grassroots network of volunteers who hail from every corner or the state, Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving, and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a greater Nebraska.

Headquartered in Lincoln with employees working from hometowns all across the state, Nebraska Community Foundation provides financial management, strategic development, donor education, and training in partnership with 1,500 volunteers serving 258 Nebraska communities. In the last five years, 44,476 contributions were made to NCF and its affiliated funds. Since 1994, NCF has reinvested $355.3 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org or call (402) 323-7330.

Eastern Nebraska Community Action Partnership (ENCAP) is a nonprofit community based organization that has been providing social and human services to people facing poverty since 1965. Last year, ENCAP provided 21,590 to 6,557 people living in Douglas and Sarpy Counties. ENCAP is a member of a national network of over 1,000 Community Action Agencies dedicated to providing programming that meets community needs, that responds to the voices of the low-income community, and that demonstrates continuous quality improvement. ENCAP’s service areas include: Emergency rent and utility assistance, family wellbeing via community response, senior well-being, hunger relief (via Omaha and Bellevue Food Pantries) transportation, and mental health and substance abuse treatment. For more information, please visit www.encapnebraska.org.

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CEDARS remains committed to helping kids in crisis and building strong families.

For over 70 years, this community has rallied around CEDARS to help them care for kids and families who need it most. In this time of uncertainty, CEDARS vital services are needed now more than ever. Thanks to community support, CEDARS dedicated team of 200 professionals and a network of loving foster parents is able to serve on the front lines to bring safety and stability into the lives of 2,000 kids and families each year.

CEDARS is accredited through the Council on Accreditation and the National Association for the Education of Young Children, is a United Way partner, a four-star charity with Charity Navigator, a top-rated charity with CharityWatch, and a Better Business Bureau Accredited Charity.

CEDARS commitment is to helping children and families has not—and will not—ever waiver. To learn more, call (402) 434-KIDS (5437) or visit CEDARSkids.org.

RISE is an innovative “inside-out” program serving incarcerated people through an intensive six-month reentry class inside seven Nebraska state prisons. Additionally, RISE provides reentry services to released program graduates.

In-prison programming focuses on character development, job readiness, reentry planning, and entrepreneurship.

Reentry programming includes case management, employment aid, transportation, housing support, mental health, and substance abuse resources, and help obtaining basic needs for returning citizens.

RISE’s vision is that all people find freedom from cycles of incarceration. When people reenter society well and are supported by the community, public safety increases, people can begin to build wealth for their families, maintain healthy relationships, and break the cycles of incarceration.

You can make a direct impact on your community with RISE through volunteering at RISE in-prison events, reviewing program participant resumes online, becoming a RISE Reentry Mentor, volunteering with our policy and advocacy team, and through financial support. To learn more, visit www.seeusrise.org or call (402) 999-8063.

Child Saving Institute (CSI) focuses on the prevention, intervention and healing of childhood trauma, neglect and abuse. Since its beginning more than 128 years ago, CSI’s primary focus has always been children’s safety and well-being.

As an innovative leader in children’s services, CSI’s programs include an Emergency Shelter for youth in crisis, quality Early Childhood Education, consultation services for low-income child care centers, Foster Care, foster parent training, Therapy, In Home Services for struggling families, Pediatric Social Work services in low income medical clinics, Independent Living Skills education for youth aging out of the foster care system, free parenting workshops, and older child adoption. The agency also operates the Triage Center at Project Harmony, providing a comfortable environment, food, and fresh clothing to children who have been abruptly removed from their homes in crisis.

CSI’s programs are diverse, but so are the needs of today’s children and youth. With your support and the support of others like you, CSI serves more than 2,800 kids and families each year and touches thousands more, improving the lives of children in our community—helping them discover the joy of childhood that every child should experience.

For more information, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, visit childsaving.org, or call (402) 553-6000. #PrintProudDigitalSmart