Strictly Business Omaha - November 2023

STRICTLYBUSINESSOMAHA.COM

OMAHA • NOVEMBER 2023 ™

Streamlined Service,

NEXT LEVEL veterans appreciation

PERFORMANCE

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FEATURE STORIES • Holiday Cheer • End of Year Business Spending CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS • Burns & McDonnell • Union Bank & Trust • Prairie Meadows Alzheimer’s Care Center

RIVER CITY SIX

IN THIS ISSUE

PAGE 44

TREVA HAUGAARD CINCF

STEVE RIPPE United Way of the Midlands

CHERI DURYEA MCPHERSON Duryea Strategic Marketing and Canary and Coal

TANNER SCHWARTING 1-800-BoardUp

CRYSTAL ZABKA-BELSKY Clean Eatz

KIMMYLEA KONSEL LimeLight Expressions

AGO

Strictly Business Magazine PO BOX 57397, Lincoln, NE 68505

Fusion exists to create meaningful connections between healthcare travelers and facilities that lead to better patient care and better outcomes for all. We strive to improve the lives of everyone we touch.

Learn more at workwithfusion.com

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NOVEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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

Our Two Cents on an Attitude of Gratitude The “attitude of gratitude” perspective/ mindset is a great approach to recognizing the positive aspects of life and being thankful and appreciative for what we have as opposed to what we might lack. Here at Strictly Business, we have plenty to be grateful for. We have a great team and amazing clients to work with as we strive to boost local shopping and community support – our work is something that we all enjoy doing.

This past month, we said goodbye to one of our favorites – Cemre Lively. Though we no longer get to see her every day at work, we have gained another supporter and friend. In her place, we are excited to welcome our new Director of Operations Kacey Russell. She is a great addition to our team and we are thankful for her stepping into such an important role.

Kacey Russell - Director of Operations: “Christmas is my favorite time of the year because of all the holiday traditions my family has. My favorite tradition that I always look forward to is picking out the perfect Christmas tree and decorating it while singing Christmas carols at the top of our lungs.”

Devan Kirkpatrick - Art Director: “This time of year, I am excited about all of the sports that are taking place. The NBA and NHL are getting underway, MLB and MLS are in playoff mode and the NFL is in full-swing. ‘It’s too cold outside’ is an excuse I recommend everyone use to allow ample time for watching all of the exciting sporting events.”

My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving, and I am so excited that it is almost here because it is all about spending time with family.

With the holidays not too far off, our minds are wandering from our work to our personal lives, where we all have various things we are appreciative of. Below is an expression of our attitude of gratitude this holiday season:

Paige Zutavern - President: “My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving, and I am so excited that it is almost here because it is all about spending time with family. I love cooking, and especially love it on Thanksgiving because I’m getting to spend time with family while I do it. The great tasting feast is an amazing reward for all the labor.”

Shae Withington - Writer/Editor: “Christmas is one of my favorite times of year. I love all the lights that people use to decorate. Driving around and looking at them reminds me of just how beautiful our city can be, and of how much fun a few friends/family members can have doing something so simple.”

This month, we are also showing our appreciation and gratitude for Veterans.

Our Veterans Day Spread is highlighting local businesses that wholeheartedly support the Veterans in our community.

Let’s show them our support for showing Veterans support!

Veterans have selflessly served our country, dedicating a significant portion of their lives to protect our freedoms and uphold our way of life. Through their courage and commitment, they have shouldered the weight of responsibility in the face of danger, both at home and abroad. Their service embodies the essence of duty and patriotism, and their sacrifices, whether in times of conflict or peace, deserve our utmost respect. By recognizing and supporting Veterans, we not only honor their past sacrifices, but also harness their potential to continue making positive contributions to our nation long after their military service has ended.

– The Strictly Business Staff Let Strictly Business help you lock in your status as THE EXPERT in your industry, utilizing print, the internet and social media. Find out how by contacting Paige at (402) 466-3330.

CONTENTS

i a a

NEWS

4 Business 22 Personnel 26 Nonprofit

SPOTLIGHTS

14 Burns & McDonnell 28 Union Bank & Trust 40 Prairie Meadows Alzheimer’s Care Center

FEATURE STORIES

41 Holiday Cheer 44 Veterans Appreciation 46 End of Year Business Spending

Kacey

Devan

Shae

PRODUCTION TEAM: Director of Operations Kacey Russell - Kacey@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Art Director Devan Kirkpatrick - Devan@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Writer/Editor Shae Withington - Shae@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.

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ABOUT THE COVER

search and order from our massive inventory online

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STREAMLINED SERVICE & NEXT LEVEL PERFORMANCE T

he D.E. Guns’ website inventory boasts some of the most popular handguns, rifles and firearms as well as some of the most uncommon varieties that you may have a tough time finding elsewhere. Their online collection is astounding, and moves quickly! If you see something you like, order it before someone else does!

Their firearm product selection spans from all over the world. As an American company that operates in the heart of the USA, they strive to highlight manufacturers that make guns, ammo and accessories here in the United States by making it easy for customers to support them. You can shop sporting goods that are brainstormed, manufactured and boxed right here in the USA online and in store. Buy now to show your support!

as we get closer to the election, inventory will move faster; if you see a product you want online, buy it immediately before it is gone!

inventory moves fast! demand is going to be higher than ever, act quick!

By optimizing their new website to accommodate online shoppers, D.E. Guns has made shopping for deals more convenient than ever. If you prefer to browse an enormous selection of firearm merchandise online as opposed to in store, you’ll love how streamlined their new website is. Their outstanding website performance ensures that you can browse thousands of guns from anywhere in the world at any time of day or night – and place an order from anywhere at any time too!

So what are you waiting for? Order now!

If you choose to order online, you’ll have the option to pick up your items in-store once they are ready, typically a few days later, offering a seamless shopping experience. By picking up your items in store, you’ll be able to conveniently ask knowledgeable professionals any questions that you may have. Don’t wait to place your order! If it’s in your cart, it should be yours!

if you see what you want online, place an order and then pick up your items at the store within only a few days!

D.E. Guns’ website is indisputably the perfect place for registered buyers to purchase used guns online. Professional shooters, firearm enthusiasts, amateurs or first-time gun handlers – there’s everything for everyone in their online gun store. D.E. Guns is devoted to delivering quality and safety-inspected used guns that they strive to provide in-depth education for.

So, stop waiting – go online and start shopping! The sooner you order, the sooner you can pick it up in store! Check out D.E. Guns new website at deguns.net. To speak with a knowledgeable professional, call (402) 875-6500 or email ffl@deguns.net.

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www.StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com NOVEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS First Direct Unveils the "Take Back Your Marketing" Initiative: A Dynamic Blueprint for Business Growth and Success In today's fast-paced digital arena, businesses often find themselves inundated by an abundance of marketing advice, tools and strategies. Cutting through the noise to discover a truly effective strategy can be daunting. In response to this, First Direct is introducing its groundbreaking "Take Back Your Marketing" initiative. More than just a set of guidelines, it serves as a marketing roadmap ensuring businesses are equipped not only to adapt, but to excel.

Joel Buhr, President of First Direct, has witnessed firsthand the challenges businesses face over the course of his distinguished 25year career in data, sales and marketing. "The complexities of the marketing world are ever-increasing. For businesses to flourish, they need to stay three steps ahead," said Joel.

The "Take Back Your Marketing" initiative promises businesses a real understanding of the marketing world. Whether it’s establishing brand awareness or generating audience engagement, this program provides businesses with the insights they need to carve a niche in their respective industries. They’ll get the secrets to efficient scaling, identify optimal advertising channels and master the art of compelling creative.

According to Joel, "In today’s market, just keeping pace isn't enough.

You need to be proactive and innovative. With 'Take Back Your Marketing,’ we don't just give fluffy recommendations, but rather offer a competitive edge." Don’t waste any more time. Scan the QR code to book a consultation with First Direct, and start the transformative journey of remarkable growth for your business.

For more information about the "Take Back Your Marketing" initiative, visit takebackyourmarketing.com.

First Direct is a marketing company providing the right data, insights and solutions you need to take your business forward. Their goal is to transform your business’s marketing for growth and success by offering end-to-end business marketing solutions to leapfrog over the competition. To learn more, visit firstdirectmarketing.com.

Maven Tile & Stone Offering Nationwide Shipping Did you know that Maven Tile & Stone ships all over the U.S.? They offer nationwide shipping for anything available at their studio or online.

With over 20 years of experience in the tile industry, they are dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and helping you create the perfect vision for your project, whether it’s a commercial or residential space, an indoor or outdoor area, a remodel or new build. Visit their showroom at 7011 Kentwell Ln STE 300 or check out their website at maventileandstone.com to explore their wide range of products. You can also follow them on Instagram (@maventileandstone) for the latest updates. For more information, you can reach them by phone at (531) 249-5917.

4 Strictly Business NOVEMBER 2023

The Amazing Pizza Machine to Host Ribbon Cutting November 30 The Amazing Pizza Machine is hosting a ribbon cutting November 30 from 4 to 4:30 p.m. at 13955 South Plaza.

An open house will follow at 6 p.m. At the open house, you will be able to see the renovation of two spaces to create a small kids area in the arcade (Cogswell’s Clubhouse) and the expansion of their arcade to create a space for classic arcade games (RetroCade).

The Amazing Pizza Machine couldn’t be more excited about the opening of their new Cogswell’s Clubhouse and Time Machine Retro-Cade!

Voted Omaha’s best family entertainment center and best place for birthday parties, The Amazing Pizza Machine is the perfect destination for any celebration – from birthday parties and family gatherings to post-proms and corporate events. With laser tag, thrill rides, go-karts, bowling, arcade games and an unlimited buffet, the food and fun at The Amazing Pizza Machine never ends. Continually updating and adding fun enhancements to their arcade, The Amazing Pizza Machine strives to ensure you have a great time. For more information, visit amazingpizzamachine.com.

Nikki Klugh Design Group, Inc. Celebrates 20 Years in Business Nikki Klugh D e s i g n Group, Inc. (NKDG) is excited to be celebrating 20 years in business. To celebrate this milestone, NKDG had a virtual party with their team, family, friends and biggest fans. Design trends, tools and styles have changed over the past 20 years, but Nikki Klugh Design Group has continued to provide beautiful jumping off points and sanctuaries to come home to for clients across the country.

“Twenty years ago, we didn't post about achievements, so I don't know the exact date in October when I incorporated Nikki Klugh Design Group, but I chose October 10 to pay homage to my father. My father is the one who told me my whole life that ‘it doesn't matter the size of your home, make it your palace,’" shared Owner Nikki Klugh.

Nikki Klugh Design Group continues to release episodes for The Creating Sacred Space Podcast every Thursday to shed light on the combination of luxury and sacred. They are also working on releasing their YouTube Series, On the Move with Nikki Klugh, before the end of the year.

Nikki Klugh Design Group is an Omaha-based design firm that focuses on creating Sacred Spaces for their discerning clientele by using their special practice of “Designing to the Senses.” Paying attention to all those details that make a space special and sacred for each client is what they specialize in. For more information, visit nikkiklughdesign. com or email media@nikkiklughdesign.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Roxxy to Open in Late November – Revisit the Decades You Tapped Your Foot to with LIVE DJs Roxxy is set to open in late November! Roxxy is a new retro bar concept celebrating individuality and the weirdness that make all of us unique. At their new location, experience the 80s, 90s and 00s with a great DJ, full menu and drinks! Their inspired menu will delight your taste buds with past and present along with crafted Roxxy Ritas and a list of original Roxxtails!

The Roxxy is all about celebrating the uniqueness and the weird things that make each of us who we are! Everyone is invited to stop out for an experience you’ll want to share with your friends and family!

With the eclectic decor and the retro atmosphere, they hope you’ll discover your favorite new bar and become part of it all. Roxxy is 25% about the music, 25% about the 80’s, 50% about the weirdness and 100% about the good times. You’ll enjoy plenty of eye candy everywhere you look. From their guitar chandelier to an entire wall covered in cassette tapes and weird and wild decor in between, you’re going to fall in love with Roxxy.

Roxxy’s mission is to celebrate the individuality that makes us all unique; to encourage the weirdness in each of us to shine; to boldly seek new friends, new relationships and epic new adventures; and to be excellent to each other as we party on! For more information, visit www.roxxybar.com.

The Stuffed Olive Comes to the Capitol District in December The Stuffed Olive will be opening in December!

Everyone's favorite Tapas and Martini bar is coming to Omaha, where locals can relax in comfort with 100+ martinis, crafter cocktails and small tapas to share in a minimalistic atmosphere.

T h e S t u f f e d O l i v e wa s originally founded in 2004 at the Blackhawk Hotel in Cedar Falls, IA. It began as a Martini Bar with a great menu featuring plenty of great concoctions to choose from. In 2005, tapas (small plates) were added to the menu and the martini menu continued to grow. The original Stuffed Olive enjoyed many good years at the Hotel, but finally closed on January 1, 2019, to make way for Hotel upgrades and renovations. It wasn’t long before The Stuffed Olive knew they had to get it reopened as soon as possible. After months of planning and renovations, The Stuffed Olive re-opened in September of 2019 with a brand new tapas menu and a polished martini menu featuring all of their past favorites along with some new fare.

The Stuffed Olive offers over 100 martinis to choose from and some of the best chef-prepared food available at. The new Stuffed Olive is full of soft leather seating in a modern, luxurious, yet minimalistic atmosphere. They often hear from guests that The Stuffed Olive is their favorite place. They think it just might be yours too. For more information, visit www.TheStuffedOlive.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS NEWS Fusion Unveils New Identity, Reflecting the Company’s Expansion and Focus on Refreshing Healthcare Fusion recently unveiled a new brand identity that includes the formal addition of a parent brand and a managed service provider solution. As a top 15 healthcare staffing agency based in Omaha, the company formerly known generally as Fusion Medical Staffing is rebranding to Fusion – an all-encompassing parent or corporate brand. Fusion will serve as an umbrella or corporate brand to connect and unify its two business units, Fusion Medical Staffing and Fusion Workforce Solutions, for its many audiences.

“This new corporate brand development and business brand alignment reflects our growth and clearly connects the diverse solutions that help healthcare travelers and facilities in our pursuit of positively impacting the lives of everyone we touch,” said Chief Marketing Officer Tara Sprakel. “Our business units and brands are now identified in name and in visual branding to an overarching Fusion parent brand, connecting the solutions and impact we provide while also building the culture that unites the teams of these business units together.”

Fusion Medical Staffing connects healthcare travelers to open positions in facilities across the country, providing career opportunities for healthcare professionals and a constant stream of top-tier travelers for medical facilities.

Fusion Workforce Solutions is a managed service provider that helps healthcare facilities manage their traveler workforce. This service reduces stress, increases job visibility and ensures consistent traveler rates.

Fusion exists to solve the challenges in the healthcare industry including a lack of transparency, challenging work conditions and burnout among healthcare professionals. As part of the brand launch, Fusion introduced a tagline – Refresh Healthcare – to encompass its brand promise and approach to addressing these challenges being driven by the needs of others, high service and an innovative mindset.

“Fusion has evolved so much in our nearly 14 years, and this new identity reflects so much of who and what we have become throughout our journey,” said President and CEO Corey Watton. “We have always operated with the mission of improving every life we touch, and strengthening our business units and parent brand opens avenues for us to continue that with focused initiatives on the segments of the healthcare industry each unit supports.”

Fusion is an Omaha-based healthcare company that exists to create meaningful connections between healthcare travelers and facilities that lead to better patient care and better outcomes for all. The company consists of two business units: Fusion Medical Staffing and Fusion Workforce Solutions, which simplify processes for healthcare travelers and facilities at every turn. Fusion employees strive to stay humble, driven and positive. You can learn more about how Fusion and its business units are refreshing healthcare by visiting workwithfusion.com.

At Strictly Business, we strive to recognize local professionals for their significant awards, promotions, achievements and/or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Lincoln community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330, email editor@strictlybusinessomaha. com, or submit your news at strictly-business.com.

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Strictly Business NOVEMBER 2023

First Clean Eatz Omaha Location Now Open for Business Clean Eatz, a restaurant offering more than just healthy food, opened its first location in Omaha on June 8 and plans to open a second location soon.

When working with Clean Eatz, you get to pick your meals from a rotating menu with full nutritional information. Clean Eatz will then prepare your healthy meals ready to pick up in their café located at 107th and Pacific in the Regency Landing development. The meals come in microwave-safe containers ready to heat and eat within three-four minutes. The meals can be stored in the freezer for up to six months or in the fridge for up to one week. The meals that Clean Eatz prepares and delivers are suitable for all ages. Both younger and older communities can find benefits from the easy, healthy meals. Their café also offers frozen “grab ‘n go” meals to purchase as well as a café menu that you can order to eat a healthy, delicious meal at the café or take out. Clean Eatz is also enjoying catering to a variety of businesses who are wanting a healthier option.

Owner Susan Petri and her business partner/sister Alley Robinson started working with Clean Eatz together. Two of Susan’s children also work at Clean Eatz among other amazing teammates – some of which are fitness trainers.

Clean Eatz has the goal to make healthy eating affordable for everyone. In doing so, they are creating a community of like-minded individuals who believe in supporting each other on their journey to total wellness. Through food and lifestyle training, their brand is able to help you reach your goals and be the best version of yourself. For more information, visit www.cleaneatz.com.

Berry Law Announces Launch of New Veteran-Led Podcast Berry Law is excited to introduce its new podcast focusing on the unparalleled leadership lessons of the military and their applications i n t h e c i v i l i a n wo r l d . W i t h episodes releasing every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, listeners are in for a treat of insights, stories and expertise.

John S. Berry, the CEO of Berry Law Serving as an active-duty infantry officer in the U.S. Army, John’s career spanned numerous deployments, culminating in his retirement as a Battalion Commander in the Nebraska National Guard. Each episode will delve deep into the leadership lessons John imbibed during his service and the strategies that fueled his civilian successes.

Beginning this fall, the show’s dynamic will evolve further. John will be hosting accomplished Veteran business and community leaders.

These guest appearances aim to showcase the myriad ways military teachings have paved the path for achievements outside the barracks.

Guests will share resources, advice and narrate their tales of success post their military service.

Listeners can look forward to a blend of inspirational stories, actionable advice and a deeper understanding of the military's role in shaping successful leaders. You can find the Veteran-Led podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. To learn more about Berry Law, the Veterans on the team and what they do, visit BerryLawFirm.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Ellie Mental Health Expands to First Location in Nebraska Ellie Mental Health, the mental health franchise that is rapidly expanding across the nation, has announced the opening of the brand’s first location in Nebraska. Local entrepreneurs and husband-and-wife-duo, Matt Dennis and Brooke Steppat, will help bring Ellie Mental Health’s much-needed services to the Omaha community for the first time.

The duo hopes their new location will make mental health services in Omaha more locally available. The new clinic is located off West Maple Rd. at 3803 N 153rd St. Ste. 200.

Ellie Mental Health offers a professional and welcoming aesthetic, making clients feel right at home. This location is also one of the few counseling offices in northwest Omaha. With the boom in Omaha’s residential growth over the years, Ellie Mental Health saw an opportunity to bring the brand’s much-needed services to a community with few locally available mental health clinics.

Ellie is changing the culture of mental health by making quality therapy more accessible and approachable. Ellie remains committed to providing therapy for individuals and families, couples counseling, trauma-informed/EMDR and other community-based mental health services. Ellie takes pride in being professionally equipped to handle a variety of mental health needs for the local community. Clients joining Ellie can expect to find a therapist they connect with through the brand’s one-of-a-kind “Ellie Match Tool.”

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For more information about Ellie Mental Health or to schedule an appointment, call (402) 674-6957 or visit elliementalhealth.com/ locations/omaha-west-maple-ne.

Pitzl Contracting, LLC Recaps Attendance at 2023 AAN Annual Educational Expo and Trade Show Pitzl Contracting, LLC attended the 2023 AAN Annual Educational Expo and Trade Show on September 21, where they had a vendor table and were able to meet various project management companies and potential customers. They were thrilled to attend and meet so many great prospects that will impact future projects.

The Apartment Association of Nebraska, Inc (AAN) was founded by a group of property managers and owners in July 2002. Their vision included an association that would help create and maintain a high level of professionalism in the multi-family industry. The 2023 AAN Annual Educational Expo and Trade Show gathered over 50 management companies represented with interests in multi-family goods and services!

Pitzl Contracting is a family run concrete company. Current services range from concrete removal, concrete repair, driveways, patios, garage floors, pool decks, sidewalks and pathways, concrete slabs and flat work, parking lots, stamped and stained concrete and steps for commercial and residential services. During the winter months, they offer snow removal services for properties around the Omaha area. For more information, visit facebook.com/p/Pitzl-ContractingLLC-100057547972329. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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Checking | Savings | Mortgage | Home Equity

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Imagine collaboration tools that make working together work better

With collaboration tools from Cox Business, your team can connect and work together from virtually anywhere using Webex or Microsoft Teams, all with 24/7 end-user support.

Seamlessly schedule conference calls and video meetings Easily share files during calls and meetings Instantly chat with internal and external contacts

Call (402) 934-3891 or Visit coxbusiness.com/collaboration Not all services available everywhere. Learn more at coxbusiness.com/collaboration. © 2023 Cox Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

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BUSINESS NEWS Creative Hair Design Salon and Spa Undergoing Renovation Creative Hair Design has started renovations in their spa. With this renovation comes an all new, luxury salt therapy room for clients to sit in before their spa services. Clients will still have the option to sit in their aromatherapy steam rooms; the salt therapy room is an upgrade for people interested in trying something new.

Salt therapy, also known as halotherapy, is the fastest growing service in the spa industry. Although the practice is still relatively new to North America, it has been widely used throughout Europe for decades and its origins date back to medieval times. Salt therapy can aid in cleansing the respiratory system, improve lung function, boost the immune system and enhance mental wellness. Tiny salt particles used in halotherapy can also repair your skin cells and protect your skin from aging as well as improve your breathing and the amount of oxygen in your blood. With all of its benefits, Creative Hair Design believes the salt therapy room will be very rewarding for their clients to have a place they can come relax after a crazy day or week.

Follow Creative Hair Design on social media on Instagram (@ CHDSALON) or Facebook (CHDSALONOMAHA) for updates and progress on construction and renovations.

Visit creativehairdesign.com or call (402) 330-5660 to make an appointment with Creative Hair Design Salon and Spa.

Control Depot Recaps Honeywell Spyder Model 7 Controllers Training Class September 25-28 Control Depot brought in a Honeywell corporate trainer to give students from around the Midwest a comprehensive education on Honeywell building automation new Spyder7 controllers September 25-28. IPenabled VAV control used to be the wave of the future, but not anymore – because with the arrival of Spyder™ Model 7, it’s the wave of today. That means more data, faster. It’s Universal I/Os with test and balancing via mobile app. HVAC systems are more capable and better protected when they’re part of the building’s IP network, making Spyder Model 7 your gateway to smarter control.

Control Depot is a building automation and controls distributor serving Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas and South Dakota. As a controls distributor, they sell and support 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 webbased building automation system. At Control Depot, 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 business, offering quality services in a timely manner, but at affordable rates. Contact them today for more information on how they can help you at (402) 934-0078 / sales@controldepotinc.com. For more information, visit www. controldepotinc.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

DataNicely Celebrates One Year in Business DataNicely is celebrating a remarkable milestone: its first year in business.

Over the past 12 months, the company has not only thrived, but has also significantly expanded its reach, serving clients from all corners of the country. As DataNicely looks forward to the future, it's clear that the company is ready to make an even greater impact, with a particular focus on growing right here in its hometown of Omaha.

One of DataNicely's standout achievements has been its ability to serve clients nationwide, showcasing its expertise in handling data-related challenges for businesses across the country. From coast to coast, DataNicely has proven its commitment to excellence in data management.

As DataNicely reflects on its successful journey, it is also excited to announce its strategic focus on expanding its presence in Omaha, where the company proudly calls home. This move aligns with its mission to contribute to the local business community while utilizing its data prowess to support growth in the region.

As DataNicely enters its second year, it is poised for even greater accomplishments and looks forward to further enriching its partnerships while making a positive impact on the business landscape in Omaha and beyond. With a strong foundation of data expertise, the future holds boundless possibilities.

DataNicely offers a suit of data analytical consulting. For more information, visit Datanicely.com or call (402) 915-1983.

Greater Omaha Chamber to Host Highly Anticipated Economic Outlook Breakfast November 17 The Greater Omaha Chamber announces its upcoming event, the Economic O u t l o o k Breakfast, scheduled for November 17, from 7:30 to 9 a.m., at Embassy Suites Omaha - La Vista Hotel and Conference Center.

The Economic Outlook Breakfast promises an engaging and informative experience for attendees, featuring experts who will deliver the latest insights and in-depth analysis of the business landscape, economic performance, emerging trends and attitudes regarding future growth. This gathering will also provide a comprehensive scope of both the national and local economies, offering key performance data and perceptions.

The Greater Omaha Chamber is honored to present their keynote speaker, Dr. Jim Harter, the Chief Scientist of Workplace Management & Wellbeing at Gallup. Dr. Harter will deliver exclusive insights that you can immediately apply to your strategic planning.

Tickets for this event are available now at OmahaChamber.org/eol.

The Greater Omaha Chamber is deeply committed to its mission of fostering a thriving business community and a prosperous region through visionary leadership and collaborative efforts. For more information, please visit www.omahachamber.org.

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BUSINESS NEWS Millard Business Association Gearing Up for Project Wee Care The Millard Business Association (MBA) along with the Millard Business Community Foundation are working to provide students in need attending Millard Public Sc hools a special holiday season. The event Project Wee Care has been sponsoring families for the last 20 years.

You can help by donating your time, sponsoring a family or financially donating to the cause. Mark your calendars for these important dates.

December 2-5: Project Wee Care North Pole (Waters Edge Church, 19600 Harrison St.) Setup, Gift Intake, Decorating and Gift Wrapping. During this time, volunteers will turn the North Pole into a winter wonderland. Activities include moving tables, decorating the North Pole, checking in gifts from sponsors that purchased gifts for families, wrapping gifts and preparing for the December 9 Family Event Day. December 9: Project Wee Care Distribution Day. Project Wee Care will help 300 plus families this year. They will leave with food, gifts for all, diapers and basic family needs. 50 to 60 volunteers are needed for each of the three shifts between 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Contact Richard Hovorka for more information at hovorka. projectweecare@gmail.com.

Membership is only $180 yearly or $18 for the monthly option.

New members can use promo code strictlybiz20 to get $20 off their membership.

The Millard Business Association was established in 2003 and comprises more than 200 area businesses members. Apply for membership at www.MillardBusinessAssociation.org. For more information, contact the MBA Admin at (402) 707-2827 or email info@millardbusinessassociation.org.

Prairie Meadows Alzheimer's Care Center to Host Turkey Trot Event November 16 P r a i r i e Meadows Alzheimer's Care Center is excited to host their four th Annual Turkey Trot Event Thursday, November 16, from 4 to 6 p.m.

The event will take place at Kelly Ballpark off 123rd and Fort St. The Turkey Trot Event is designed to thank referral friends and partners. It is hosted by Prairie Meadows and community partners.

The goal behind the Turkey Trot is to give back to healthcare partners as a way to thank them for all they do. It is a drive-thru event that attendees must RSVP for. Those attending the event will receive a frozen turkey and other key ingredients from hosts for Thanksgiving.

Prairie Meadows is a homelike memory-care facility with 66 beds in four types of apartment-style housing – private deluxe, private, semiprivate (just shared bathroom) and companion rooms – and a nurse at the community around the clock. They use a “Spark resident-led” program to help get to know residents by learning their life stories and finding out their preferences, likes, dislikes and cherished memories. Prairie Meadows then incorporates that information into their everyday care. For more information, visit prairiemeadowsseniorliving.com or call (402) 391-2790.

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FNIC Receives 2023 BBB Torch Awards for Ethics, Celebrating Commitment to Trust and Integrity

FNIC is thrilled to announce its receipt of the 2023 BBB Torch Awards for Ethics in the Lincoln and Greater Nebraska and South Dakota regions. This esteemed accolade stands as a testament to FNIC's unwavering dedication to the values of trust, integrity and the cultivation of meaningful relationships within its team, communities and with its valued clients. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Midwest Plains has bestowed this honor upon FNIC, placing it among the esteemed group of award winners across the region.

To commemorate this achievement, the awards will be prominently displayed at FNIC's Lincoln, NE and Mitchell, SD offices.

Receiving the 2023 BBB Torch Awards for Ethics marks a remarkable milestone in FNIC's journey, reaffirming its commitment to ethical business practices, trust-building and community engagement. As FNIC moves forward, the organization will continue to prioritize integrity, honesty and excellence in all its endeavors, ensuring that clients and communities continue to benefit from its commitment to ethical conduct. FNIC recognizes that its success is intrinsically linked to the well-being of the communities it serves and is immensely grateful for their continued support and partnership. FNIC looks forward to a future guided by these principles, further strengthening its commitment to ethical business practices.

To learn more about FNIC, please visit www.fnicgroup.com where you will find more information about the FNIC team and the products and services they provide.

Omaha Empowerment Breakfast Announces Kim Kuhle as November 3 Speaker Omaha Empowerment Breakfast is excited to have Kim Kuhle of the Veterans Victory Entrepreneurial Small Business Campus and Housing as the speaker for their November 3 networking event. Her topic is “How growing a community benefits your business. The Veteran Victory How to Secret Sauce.” Each November, Omaha Empowerment Breakfast honors Veterans with their program. The mission of the Veterans Victory Entrepreneurial Small Business Campus and Housing project is to focus on growing a Veteran Entrepreneurial Campus, a community within a community. In four cities with a target of 12 total, Kim Kuhle has accelerated business and employee satisfaction.

Kim Kuhle, Founder and CEO of 21 businesses, has launched three of 12 Veterans Victory Entrepreneurial Small Business Centers and Housing to honor her father, an Air Force Veteran, and honor her mother, a victim of an explosion. She is handing down shares in the Veterans Victory Opportunity Zone businesses to her daughters; they will manage the Veteran programs and entrepreneurial campuses until 2047 under the OZ law.

The Omaha Empowerment Breakfast is a once-a-month nonmembership networking event. This worthwhile event is well attended, and it happens on the first Friday of every month. For more information, visit omahaempowermentbreakfast.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS Better Business Bureau Now Offering BBB Trust Hub

Kimberly Lomax VO LLC Receives Scholarship to Attend eVOcation 2023

At the Better Business Bureau (BBB), they believe that trust matters. When it rises, organizations soar. Teams with high trust scores can achieve high performance and outperform others in their industry. Trusted teams attract better talent and genuinely benefit their communities.

To them, the core of a better business has always been a commitment to trust.

Kim Lomax, Owner/Voiceover Actor at Kimberly Lomax VO LLC, is thrilled to announce the receipt of an award in the amount of a full scholarship to attend eVOcation 2023 – A Virtual Conference for the Business of Voiceover!

The BBB Trust Hub is your one-stop shop to guide you on your path to trust. With decades of experience in delivering helpful insights and practical knowledge, BBB has built a library of resources and tools to educate organizations on trust in the workplace. Through BBB Accreditation, useful business tools, industry insights and tips and their hub for starting a new business, the BBB strives to equip business owners with the tools they need to build a Better Business.

A great first step in building a trusted organization is a commitment to BBB's Standards for Trust, which shows consumers that you are a reputable business.

With BBB Trust Hub, you can: • Learn more about the programs and tools your local BBB offers exclusively to BBB Accredited Businesses.

• Explore business tips, articles and helpful industry resources through the BBB Business Content HQ. • Take advantage of discounts on basic business tools, created specifically with busy business owners in mind.

BBB is a nonprofit, business-supported organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. BBB services to consumers are free. Visit BBB.org for more information.

Clothes Mentor Omaha to Host First Annual Holiday Event November 9 Get ready for Clothes Mentor Omaha’s first annual Holiday Event November 9 from 5 to 8 p.m. at 14937 Evans Plaza!

At the event, you’ll be shopping new arrivals introduced only for the event while sipping drinks and enjoying a beautiful charcuterie created by Gather & Graze. AdoreOmaha will be there to jazz up your look for the holidays with permanent jewelry and tooth gems.

Clothes Mentor will also have some fun with giveaways and more, so add them to your calendar and celebrate the upcoming holiday season with Clothes Mentor Omaha!

Clothes Mentor is a great place to find fresh, modern styles in designer apparel and accessories at affordable prices. By shopping at Clothes Mentor, you can help to reduce waste and support sustainable fashion, while still enjoying stylish and fashionable clothing. With a focus on providing great value and a sustainable shopping experience, Clothes Mentor is a great choice for anyone looking to update their wardrobe without breaking the bank. For more information, contact local Owners Andrea McCarter and Marybeth Erps at (402) 6585668 or visit omahane.clothesmentor.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

The event was held online, September 8-10, and offered sessions from leading industry professionals about all aspects of operating a voiceover business. Content gleaned from attendance ensures that Kim maintains a finger on the pulse of trends within the industry, allowing her to deliver the best possible product and seamless process for her clients. In particular, this year's conference theme was "Thriving in an AI World." With generative AI at the forefront of so many news headlines, gaining insight into best practices for contracting and understanding the options available to voice actor and client alike, will assist Kim in asserting her core value of establishing real, human connection WITH and FOR her clients.

Kim specializes in authentic, conversational voice acting and promises delivery in a timely and hassle-free way, such that what you get is the story YOU want to tell. Kim is proud to be a member of the National Association of Voice Actors (NAVA) and is a local, womanowned business. To learn more, visit kimberlylomax.com or email Kim at kim@kimberlylomax.com

Cox Communications Announces First-of-its-kind Pilot Collaboration C ox C o m m u n i c a t i o n s , i n collaboration with Internet2 and Network Nebraska through the ConnectEd Nebraska program, announced a first-of-its-kind pilot initiative to expand eduroam access for participating K-12 schools across the Omaha metro area. With the eduroam global Wi-Fi access service and an expanded network of hotspots in community spaces, students will be able to obtain internet connections across the metro area even when visiting locations outside their day-to-day school campuses.

The ConnectEd Nebraska Program was piloted in 2021 by Network Nebraska as one of several eduroam Support Organizations across the U.S. aiming to improve student connectivity by offering eduroam to public and private K-12 schools. Network Nebraska has since enrolled 163 schools, representing 68% of public-school districts.

As of today, the ConnectEd Nebraska Program is available to all Network Nebraska members, representing over 99% of the public school districts as well as private school entities in the state.

With new access to eduroam at more than 600 Cox Wi-Fi hotspots across the Omaha metro area, students will be able to maintain secure roaming internet service across large portions of the education community and public spaces. That includes eduroam access already available through Internet2’s service and the eduroam Support Organizations program at many K-12 schools, colleges, universities, libraries, museums and other community anchor institutions, along with new access via Cox Wi-Fi hotspots at healthcare facilities, business parking lots, grocery stores, outdoor spaces and other locations.

For more information about Cox, visit cox.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS Tommy's Express Car Wash Hosting New Site Grand Opening November 29

Waybridge Ketamine Clinics Recaps Ribbon Cutting on October 4

Tommy's Express Car Wash invites you to visit their brand-new location's grand opening November 29 at 606 N 124th Plaza, Omaha, NE 68154, and enjoy complimentary car washes!

For updates about the new location, keep an eye on their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/TommysExpress124thPlazaOmaha.

Waybridge Clinics held a ribbon c u t t i n g c e r e m o ny with the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce on October 4 to celebrate the official grand opening of the IV ketamine clinic! Waybridge Ketamine Clinics offers IV ketamine therapy treatment for mood and pain disorders in a comfortable and safe clinic environment under the direct supervision of a medical provider.

Tommy’s Express has more than 50 years of expertise. Their developments in wash products and technology keep them at the forefront of innovation, giving them an edge over competitors. Stateof-the-art tech offerings include their proprietary license plate reader system, advanced point-of-sale programs, dashboard and manager apps and user-friendly retail app.

When you join Tommy’s Express as a customer, you’re instantly a part of a family. They strive for excellent service and help the community beyond providing great service. Their franchise partners are always encouraged to help serve their communities with partnerships, sponsorships and local fundraising programs.

Tommy’s Express has a company culture built on the words “We Own It.” In their company, that stands for Wash quality, Exceptional guest experience, Outstanding teamwork, Winning attitudes, Never-ending pursuit of excellence, Immediate call to action and Training. For more information, visit tommys-express.com.

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At the ribbon cutting, home-baked cookies were handed out, followed by an open house in which attendees were treated to relaxing in the zero G chairs and a demonstration of the cutting-edge heart rate and blood pressure monitoring system. Guests had the opportunity to ask questions about how ketamine can help treat mental health and noted the facility was warm, welcoming and "not at all like any clinic I've been to!" One guest later commented "You've created the perfect environment (to feel safe)."

Waybridge Clinic offers intravenous ketamine therapy for dramatic improvements in quality of life for people suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD and chronic pain. After completing two sessions, over 85% of patients report improvement in depression or anxiety symptoms. To learn more, contact the clinic at (402) 965-1371 / hello@waybridgeclinics.com or visit waybridgeclinics.com.

#PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS The Wedding Planner Omaha and Florist of Omaha Expand to New Location

Heavenly Arms Learning Center Accepting Enrollments for School-Age Children

The Wedding Planner Omaha and Florist of Omaha are thrilled to announce its relocation to a spacious new location at 4505 S 96th St., conveniently located at the corner of 96th and J St. This exciting move represents a significant milestone for The Wedding Planner Omaha and Florist of Omaha. They welcome you to visit them starting November 1!

Are you seeking a place where your c hild can thrive, learn and grow in a safe and nurturing environment? Heavenly Arms Learning Center is accepting enrollments for the remaining spaces in available classes. Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out on this opportunity! Schedule a tour and secure your child’s spot today!

In addition to their renowned wedding planning and floral services, the new location will introduce an array of exciting offerings, including floral and wedding planning workshops and classes. Furthermore, the expanded space will feature an impressive selection of event retail items available for purchase. Customers can look forward to exploring trending balloon DIY packages, proposal boxes, gourmet gifts, candles, wedding/event checklists and more. This diverse range of products will make it easier than ever for customers to create unforgettable and stylish events.

Owner Dr. Vernetta Kosalka expressed her gratitude to the greater Omaha community, saying, "I thank the greater Omaha community for your support of my thriving small business. We appreciate every opportunity to serve the community one special event at a time."

The Wedding Planner Omaha and Florist of Omaha invites everyone to visit their new location at 4905 S 96th St. The team is excited to continue providing exceptional wedding planning, floral design and now an expanded selection of event retail items and educational opportunities to the community. For more information, please contact Dr. Vernetta Kosalka at vernetta@theweddingplanneromaha. com / (402) 510-2241. Learn more about Florist of Omaha at vkfloristofomaha.com.

Heavenly Arms provides school-age children (five to 12 years) with after-school care that you can depend on. After school is a great time to get homework out of the way thanks to teachers who answer questions and help your child learn the material. By the time they get home, it’s one less thing for you to worry about. Plus, your child will look forward to hanging out with new friends, playing board games and foosball as well as hanging out on the playground, so they get the social time they need to thrive before heading home.

Heavenly Arms Learning Center supports non-traditional schedules with extra early hours and other options, offers a handcrafted curriculum, prioritizes safety, provides parenting classes to give expert guidance on what’s best for your little one, provides hot and nutritious meals at no extra cost, offers playground time for the kids and participates in field trips and outdoor adventures to expose your child to new possibilities. For more information, visit letsgetreadytolearn.com.

Berry Law Sponsors Monumental 325-Mile Ruck to Raise Awareness for US Military and Veteran Suicide Berry Law, dedicated to serving and employing Veterans, is proud to announce its sponsorship of the 325mile ruck march from Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, IA, to Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, NE. This monumental event will occur on November 24, coinciding with the Cornhusker vs.

Hawkeye football game.

Organized by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Student Veterans Organization in partnership with the University of Iowa Veterans Association, the ruck march aims to raise vital awareness about the pressing issue of US Military and Veteran Suicide. In a poignant gesture to the gravity of the cause, each Rucker will be carrying 20 lbs on their journey, symbolizing the tragic statistic that 20 Veterans take their own lives every day.

For more information about the ruck march or to explore partnership opportunities, please contact the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Student Veterans Organization at veterans@unl.edu. To learn more about Berry Law, the Veterans on the team and what they do, visit BerryLawFirm.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Nebraska is optimistic.

Taking on every day with a smile.

2023 Winner

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

MAKING OUR CLIENTS

SUCCESSFUL

B

urns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of 13,500 engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898 and working from more than 70 offices globally, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned.

Because we are an employee-owned firm, our professionals partner with you to solve challenges efficiently and safely focused on 12 markets from aviation to environmental to water. We bring an ownership mentality and work as an extension of client staff because we are not successful unless and until you are. We have grown to more than 13,500 employee-owners around the world who bring extensive experience in a wide range of scientific, architectural and engineering disciplines, including more than 20 professional staff based in Omaha. We have people with the knowledge and background to complete virtually any infrastructure project and address any challenge in a timely, integrated and efficient manner. As a capital project delivery firm, we understand how to design and construct a project and through 1898 & Co., our business technology and security consulting brand, we optimize returns to align with our clients’ overall program goals.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

PROVIDING STABILITY

The Burns & McDonnell Foundation partners with local schools to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders in the communities across the country where our employee-owners live and work. Schools are invited to apply for grants up to $5,000 to enhance STEM learning in the classroom and school-based STEM programs. For the 2023-24 school year, we gave $200,000 to schools across the country, including to Raymond Central Public Schools in Valparaiso, Omaha Mercy High School, Florence Elementary and Gross Catholic High School in Omaha.

The power industry is rapidly evolving, driven by capital investment programs, reliability and technology enhancements and workforce evolution. As a leader in your community, delivering safe, affordable and reliable power to your customers is critical. We can be the partner you can trust and empower to execute your program. By implementing an integrated program management solution, we will help you maintain adequate safety, quality, cost and schedule control throughout your capital, reliability or storm hardening program.

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#PrintProudDigitalSmart

BUSINESS NEWS The Empowerment Network to Host 13th Annual Christmas in the Village

‘Tis the season to join the Empowerment Network for the 13th Annual Christmas in the Village at 24th and Lake, a community celebration and holiday tradition, on Saturday, December 2, from noon to 5 p.m. The event will take place between 24th and Burdette to 24th and Ohio Street.

Christmas in the Village is presented by the Empowerment Network and the Omaha Economic Development Corporation (OEDC) in partnership with 50+ businesses and organizations. It is sponsored

by American National Bank, Douglas County Visitor Improvement Fund, Nebraska Arts Council, Nebraska Cultural Endowment and Revive! Omaha.

This is an opportunity to bring the entire family down to enjoy the holiday festivities, support local businesses at the Christmas in the Village Holiday Boutique, Styles of Evolution, Ital Vital, Fair Deal Village MarketPlace, Holiday Market at The Union, restaurants, arts institutions and other retailers. There will be free goodie bags (while they last), treats, Santa and Mrs. Claus, face painting, interactive arts and crafts, free horse-drawn carriage rides, nativity animals including a camel, exhibits, cartoon characters, tours and Balloon Twister at the Great Plains Black History Museum and more!

The Empowerment Network's Annual Christmas in the Village wouldn't be possible without the partnership of many community organizations and businesses, as well as volunteers. For more information about Christmas in the Village, visit empoweromaha.com/upcomingevents/christmas-in-the-village. For volunteer opportunities or more information, email info@empoweromaha.com. To learn more about the Empowerment Network, visit empoweromaha.com.

Nebraska Enterprise Fund to Host 2023 Legal Series for Business Owners November 21 N e b r a s k a Enterprise Fund (NEF) is excited to host their Building a Business – Digital Security both in person and online November 21 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. The topic of the monthly series changes each month, with November focusing on the importance of digital security and how it affects your small business ventures.

The 2023 Legal Series for Business Owners brings you legal insights on key legal topics directly impacting your business. Each dynamic session is led by a leading attorney to address these topics. Participants will have a greater understanding of these legal issues, gain tips and insights and have interactive dialog. The monthly sessions are helpful both in person and via a hybrid model. All sessions are free due to the generous support of Cline Williams.

Questions about the event can be directed towards Emmalee Scheibe at (402) 685-5500 Ext 502 / emmalees@nebbiz.org.

The Nebraska Enterprise Fund was launched in 1994 to assist in procuring grant and loan funds to meet long-term operational and lending needs. They provide business development services and financing to micro and small businesses across the state. For more information about NEF and their services, go to www.nebbiz.org or contact (402) 685-5500 / nef@nebbiz.org to inquire about what it looks like to be a client. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Business Ethics Alliance Celebrates 15 Years The Business Ethics Alliance is excited to be celebrating 15 years of growth, learning and unforgettable memories.

As they celebrate this milestone, the Alliance has been reflecting on the journey that has shaped them into who they are today, the relationships yet to be made and the dreams waiting to be realized. The year-long celebration continues at the Annual Trustees Meeting on November 16 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Scott Conference Center. Don Eckles, Founder of Scooter’s Coffee, will share insights about running a values-based organization in changing times as the keynote speaker.

The Alliance was legally established in 2008 as a standalone, notfor-profit entity “to build leadership, strengthen organizations and elevate Greater Omaha through positive, practical business education.”

Dr. Beverly Kracher at Creighton University led the discussion about founding the Alliance with three founding partners quickly joining that discussion: the Heider College of Business, Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce and the BBB of the Midland Plains; Bob Bates, former CEO of Jefferson Pilot represented the Omaha business community in these discussions. Additionally, the Alliance is made up of Trustee Partners around Omaha who act as a guild of business leaders serving as ambassadors, supporters and advisors of the Alliance’s mission. Mission Drivers provide significant and sustainable support.

For more information about the Business Ethics Alliance, or to register for the Annual Meeting, visit BusinessEthicsAlliance.org.

Center Sphere to Host Network-Wide Coffee & Connections November 9 and Network Wide Social November 15 Center Sphere is excited for their Omaha Network-Wide Coffee & Connections Thursday, November 9, from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at Mutual First Federal Credit Union located at 18282 Evans St. Omaha NE. The event is hosted by Mutual First Federal Credit Union. Guests are welcome to attend this morning of networking with the area’s most connected professionals!

Center Sphere will host an Omaha Network-Wide Social November 15 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Shevy’s Sports Bar & Grill (2607 N Main St, Elkhorn, NE). The event is hosted by Center Sphere’s Elkhorn Chapter 52.

Center Sphere hosts a wide array of networking events to help members expand their professional network and grow their businesses. Their mission is to provide a platform centered on authentic relationships that ultimately builds trust and increases opportunity.

Each month, the Center Sphere hosts events such as Coffee & Connections, Social Hour and Meet the Network, with the vision to be a catalyst for growth for individuals, businesses and nonprofits within our community.

For more information about Center Sphere or to inquire about attending a complimentary meeting or event, visit www.CenterSphere. com or connect with Omaha Market President Martina Niemeyer at Martina@CenterSphere.com / (402) 536-0289.

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TREVA

Offering Braces

IN ALL SIZES

Treva Haugaard CINCF

Meet Treva Haugaard, Executive Director at the Council of Independent Nebraska Colleges Foundation (CINCF).

13106 W. Dodge Rd. | Omaha, NE (402) 493-4747 | seethetrainer.com

Tell us a little about your business. - The Council of Independent Nebraska Colleges Foundation seeks to provide scholarship support to students attending the 13 private nonprofit colleges and universities in Nebraska. CINCF recently celebrated its 70th anniversary. Since its founding in 1953, CINCF has distributed over $40 million in student scholarships to member institutions.

How did you get started in the business? - My goal in life has always been to help others. I also have a deep passion for education.

Through the mission of CINC,F I am able to do both. I was drawn to CINCF and the idea of helping college students achieve their academic goals and graduate with less debt by providing scholarship funding to the member colleges and universities. I strongly believe that a college degree can be life changing!

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Achievement means so many different things. What I value the most is helping others grow and supporting them to reach their dreams.

What fills my bucket is knowing that I helped make a difference.

Tell us a little about your family. - I met my husband, Scott, in college over 30 years ago. We recently celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary and have three daughters.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - When I am not working, I love to be outside and spend time with family. My favorite times of day are sunrise and sunset. There is nothing more breathtaking than Nebraska sunrises and sunsets!

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Visit our website at westgate.bank for our full lineup of accounts and features.

Who inspires you? - My inspiration comes from a collection of amazing individuals who have taken the time to not only provide support, but also challenge me to continue to grow personally and professionally in order to be the best version of me that I can be.

We all have choices in life about what inspires and drives our passions and dreams. I believe in surrounding myself with individuals who will support me and be there to help me achieve my dreams.

But, I must say… if it were not for my mother and father, I would not be the person I am today, as they laid a solid foundation of love and encouragement.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson What local nonprofit organizations are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? My career has been focused on human services and nonprofits.

Nebraska is fortunate to have many important nonprofits that make a difference. Of course, I am passionate about the Council of Independent Nebraska Colleges Foundation, but other nonprofits such as the GOALS Center, Nebraska Ataxia, Mentor Nebraska and Table Grace Café are a few organizations that I believe make a difference in the lives of others.

What is your favorite local Omaha restaurant? - I will take a locally owned (not a chain) restaurant any day of the week. A food truck might be even better!

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

-Treva.Haugaard@cincfoundation.org | www.cincfoundation.org #PrintProudDigitalSmart

STEVE Steve Rippe

UNITED WAY OF THE MIDLANDS Meet Steve Rippe, Senior Director, 211 at United Way of the Midlands.

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Tell us a little about your business. - The 211 Contact Center, powered by United Way of the Midlands, currently covers the entire state of Nebraska and nearly all of Iowa. Our 211 helpline is a free and confidential service that provides referrals in areas of non-emergency health and human services. We understand that there are sometimes challenges in people’s lives, and 211 provides resources and assistance to help address these issues.

How did you get started in the business? - With more than 24 years of Contact Center experience in the business sector, I was given the opportunity to lead the 211 team for United Way of the Midlands.

As a leader, my focus is on developing and promoting individuals in being the best version of themselves. This position allows me to not only develop the team, but also help the community with their needs.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Seeing the number of Nebraskans and Iowans struggling with basic needs and not having the resources to help them has by far been the biggest challenge I have faced. We continue to work with area agencies and state and local leaders to find ways to provide the assistance needed.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Earning my Green Belt in Six Sigma is definitely my most important achievement. This project management certification has allowed me to look at processes differently and now I am looking for efficiencies in everything we do.

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Tell us a little about your family. - I’ve been married to my wonderful wife for 10 years. We have four kids (a son, 30, who lives in Papillion; a daughter, 28, who lives in Omaha; a daughter, 26, who lives in Kansas City and a son, 21, who attends the University of Missouri – Kansas City). We love the beach and travel to a tropical destination each year. We also have two grandchildren which we love to spoil.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Outside of work, you can find me on the golf course, cheering for all Husker athletic teams and spending time with family.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I sold 7-up at Memorial Stadium for Husker football games in the early 80s.

Who inspires you? - Everyone has something unique about them, and I try to find inspiration from everyone I interact with. My biggest inspiration and who I have tried to model my life after is my father.

He has touched so many people in his life, and everyone you ask will say they are better because of him. I strive to have people say the same of me.

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What local nonprofit organizations are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - In addition to United Way of the Midlands, in my position, I am able to see that there are so many outstanding agencies in our community.

I am passionate and support any agency who is focused on the betterment of our community.

What is your favorite local Omaha restaurant? - Twisted Cork Bistro – Consistent service and creative menu selections.

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

- srippe@uwmidlands.org #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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CHERI

Cheri Duryea McPherson

DURYEA STRATEGIC MARKETING AND CANARY AND COAL Meet Cheri Duryea McPherson, President of Duryea Strategic Marketing and Canary and Coal.

Tell us about your business. - Duryea Strategic Marketing and Canary and Coal offer marketing strategy, creative services, traditional and digital media, social media and public relations services to clients across the country. Our collective experience spans a wide variety of industries, and we tailor our strategies to each client’s unique needs. Our goal is simple: to deliver the results our clients need.

How did you get started in the business? - Almost by accident. In college, I had a lot of majors. I couldn’t decide what I wanted to do.

Finally, it was the second semester of my junior year and my advisor said, “You have got to pick something, or you will never get out of here.” I had a marketing class that semester and really liked it, so I picked marketing. My first job out of college was at a bank in a small town where I played a lot of roles, one of them was marketing.

Since then, I have worked on the client side, vendor side and agency side of the business, which has given me a well-rounded view of the marketing world.

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What is the biggest challenge you have faced professionally?

- Starting a business. I knew the marketing side, but all the administrative pieces of running a business were a surprise.

What has been your most important professional achievement professionally? - Hitting the 10-year anniversary of my own business. I never expected to be a business owner and was very nervous about going in that direction, but I love it and am thrilled that it has worked out.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband, Jeff, is also a business owner, so he has been a huge help along the way. We have three children, Kellen, Matt and Maddie, and two grandchildren: Mason who is 18 months old, and Hazel who is just a month old.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - That’s hard because I have a lot of things I love to do. However, I would say spend time with my husband because we are both busy and don’t have that much time together.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - When I started college, I was a dance major. My dream was to dance on Broadway.

Which talent would you like to have? - To sing… I am horrible but love music.

What local nonprofit organizations are you passionate about or involved with and are there any special reason why? - Over the years, I have been involved with many… Women’s Fund of Omaha, Heartland Family Service, Carol’s House of Hope, Domestic Violence Council. I have been involved with organizations that help victims of Domestic Violence.

What Is Your Favorite TV Show? - I loved Ted Lasso… It was funny and about soccer so what’s not to love.

What is your favorite local Omaha restaurant? - Anything with Mexican food.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 250-3928 | Cheri@duryeastrategicmarketing.com or cheri@canaryandcoal.com

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Strictly Business NOVEMBER 2023

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TANNER Tanner Schwarting 1-800-BOARDUP

Meet Tanner Schwarting, Loss Consultant for 1-800-BoardUp – a Belfor Company.

Tell us a little about your business. - 1-800-BoardUp is a victim assistance-focused disaster relief company. We strive to partner with first responders as a resource to assist our community during times of disaster. We handle board-ups after fires, temporary shoring after vehicle impacts and many other disaster-related property loss issues.

Our partnership with our local Belfor Property Restoration office allows us to be a true full-service disaster relief company focused on restoring more than just property.

How did you get started in the business? - My dad has been in the industry for over a decade now. He shared with me his passion for construction and for helping people. This industry allows me the capability to pursue both of those. Working for a company that is truly focused on improving the lives of everyone we interact with is a very rewarding feeling.

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What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Helping start up this 1-800 BoardUp office in Omaha has been a challenge. I have never been in a marketing type of role before. I think building relationships with those around me and the people I interact with comes naturally to me, but it is still a skill I need to hone.

Tell us a little about your family. - My wife and I are high school sweethearts and we have a three-year-old boy and one-year-old girl.

• Putting Facilities and Travelers First

Reach out today for the CLEAR CHOICE in Staffing Services (402) 258-0277 | adeladunlap@clearchoiceresources.com

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - Definitely having my kids. My outlook on life after becoming a parent drastically changed for the better. My kids have taught me a lot about how to be a better person.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - My wife and I do a lot of renovating work on our house. She is an interior designer and with my construction background, we make a great team. We live in a house for a few years, slowly renovating everything, then sell it and move on to the next one.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I’m a big history nerd. Most of my time spent driving around to job sites is spent listening to history audiobooks or podcasts about history. I love diving into the details of ancient civilizations like Rome and Greece.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.” – Pericles If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I'm a super big history nerd again, so I would be either a military historian or some kind of ancient civilization historian.

What local nonprofit organization are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - The Red Cross does a ton of great work for people following fires and other disasters. We frequently see them out on fires we are working on helping anyone who was affected.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?

- The last good book I read was The Fall of Carthage by Adrian Goldsworthy.

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

- (402) 891-1300 | tanner.schwarting@us.belfor.com #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NOVEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

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CRYSTAL Crystal Zabka-Belsky CLEAN EATZ

Meet Crystal Zabka-Belsky, MS, RDN, CSSD, LMNT, LDN Brand Ambassador for Clean Eatz Omaha.

Tell us a little about the business. - Clean Eatz is a holistic wellness brand that is committed to providing minimally processed, wholesome foods that promote nutritional health alongside empowering individuals to better understand optimal food boundaries and meal planning strategies. I am blessed to collaborate with like-minded professionals invested in community outreach focused on public health initiatives, reductions in childhood obesity rates and enhanced holistic wellness.

How did you get started in the business? - I met the founders of Clean Eatz while working as a sports nutrition consultant for the Gatorade Sports Science Institute. I was immediately intrigued with how well their products aligned with current sport science literature.

As I learned more about the philosophies behind their business and observed the impact that they make in the community nationwide, I knew it was a great fit for me to stand behind their products!

Go check out Clean Eatz Omaha (920 S 107th Ave Suite 110 Omaha, NE 68114)! You can also follow them on Instagram @ cleaneatzomahane.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- The roles I play in developing wellness initiatives with meaningful impact make me most proud. I serve on multiple professional boards nationally for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and internationally for the Special Olympics Fitness Advisory Committee.

Locally, I’m in my second term as the Chair of the Nebraska Board of Medical Nutrition Therapy and serve on the Special Olympics Nebraska Health Advisory Committee. I’m also an instructor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where I bring a Gatorade Sports Science Institute curriculum to life for aspiring sports dietitians, exercise physiologists and other wellness professionals.

Tell us a little about your family. - To complement my love of sports, my husband Andrew works for Hudl and guides athletic programs in choosing and integrating analytic tools into athletics. We have two daughters, Kinzie and Kaidence. Both are competitive gymnasts and seem to be following in the footsteps of their school-nerd mother! We also have a 14-year old Silky Terrier named Zoey, who we always joke is aging backwards! She thinks she is a brand-new puppy.

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

- Having children was a huge turning point in my life. It created an entirely new vulnerable lens to see the world through and inspired me to shift my focus towards proactive wellness efforts to create a healthier world for my daughters to grow up in.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I was a Husker Cheerleader! Go Big Red! Who inspires you? - My mother. She has been dealt so many difficult cards in life but remains one of the kindest people I know.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - To help individuals see themselves through the eyes of those who love them.

Which talent would you most like to have? - I would love to be a surfer!

What is your favorite local Omaha restaurant? - Thai Esarn.

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Strictly Business NOVEMBER 2023

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KIMMYLEA Kimmylea Konsel-Taylor

LIMELIGHT EXPRESSIONS Meet Kimmylea Konsel-Taylor, Owner and Designer at LimeLight Expressions.

Tell us a little about your business. - LimeLight Expressions is a onestop event planning company. From start to finish, we manage all of our clients’ needs. Our goal is to make the entire process stress free, not only for the client, but also for their family and friends. Our staff oversees every detail so everyone can relax and enjoy the event to the fullest. Every occasion is completely custom tailored to our clients’ vision, making the experience as original as they are!

LimeLight Expressions has been family owned and operated since 2007 with over 22 awards in the event planning industry. Our business model is unique because we prioritize building relationships with our clients and establishing trust through consistent communication. From multimillion-dollar international events to local events, our approach is to meet the needs of our client and build a relationship that feels more like family. Throughout the process, our clients describe their dream event, and we take the necessary steps to make their vision a reality. LimeLight staff takes pride in guiding our clients through the entire planning process so they can be confident the event will exceed their own expectations.

How did you get started in the business? - I began working for First National Bank at an early age, specializing in marketing. After taking the lead at multiple trade shows and conferences throughout the U.S., I realized designing and operating events came naturally to me. While assisting with a large-scale event in Arizona for one of the FNBO presidents, I came to the realization that this is what I was born to do. I left the banking industry to chase the dream of owning my own event planning company.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Every event has its own challenges. We travel the world planning events, but even locally, we never experience the same exact venue, decor, theme, logistics or vision. There are two things a planner can never control, the weather and people, but I love putting together a plan that brings everything together for a spectacular outcome.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have an amazing husband that has his own remarkable career. He spends the majority of his time off at LimeLight events running our crews, heading up security or building relationships with clients and guests. I feel blessed having a husband that invests his time and energy in supporting me in my professional endeavors. We have four children between the two of us, my boy and girl twins, and I get to be a bonus mom to my husband’s son and daughter. It gets a little hectic balancing my family life and career, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

concrete exPertS you can truSt SerViceS concrete removal • concrete repair driveways • patios • garage floors pool decks • sidewalks and pathways concrete slabs and flat work • parking lots stamped concrete/stained concrete • steps

Joe - 531.210.7300 eric - 402.850.3750 Pitzlcontracting@gmail.com

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I have twins and multiple college degrees, I was a kickboxing instructor for nine years and I’ve had my real estate license since I was 18 years old.

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Be in the Light”

by DC Talk.

What local nonprofit organizations are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - We work with a lot of amazing nonprofit organizations throughout the year.

They are all near and dear to our hearts in their own unique way.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - (402) 915-3534 | Kimmylea@LimeLightExpressions.com | LimeLightExpressions.com #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NOVEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

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PERSONNEL NEWS Nebraska Counseling Association Honors BU Professor as "Counselor of the Year"

Canopy South Expands Their Team with Addiiton of Etienne Brock

The Nebraska Counseling Association recently honored Bellevue University’s Dr. Barb Daubenspeck, Program Director of the University’s Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, as its "Counselor of the Year."

Canopy South welcomed Etienne Brock as their newest team member! Etienne, a proud Omaha native, brings her passion for equitable housing to the place she calls home. She believes in uplifting diverse community voices to build neighborhoods where everyone has equal opportunity to education, employment and joy.

Dr. Daubenspeck leads Bellevue University’s CACREP-accredited Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree program. CACREP, which stands for the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, represents specialized program accreditation. It provides recognition that the content and quality of the program has been evaluated and meets standards set by the profession.

Over the last decade, the Bellevue University program has grown in enrollment significantly. More than 900 students from every region of the United States are currently enrolled in the 100% online program, and more than 1,100 students have earned their Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling degrees through the program.

Dr. Daubenspeck’s nominator, Dr. Katey Shirley, highlighted Dr. Daubenspeck’s mentoring of non-traditional students to ensure access to opportunities and resources, her alignment of the Bellevue University program with the American Counseling Code of Ethics and CACREP standards and her cutting-edge teaching strategies.

Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a nonprofit university with more than 60,000 graduates worldwide. Learn more at bellevue.edu.

Drawing from her experience in assisting individuals experiencing homelessness in Denver, CO, as well as her administrative roles at the Omaha Housing Authority and Omaha Public Schools, Etienne brings a wealth of knowledge to her work at Canopy South.

With a Bachelor’s of Arts in History, specializing in Women and Gender Studies and Latin American Studies from Creighton University, Etienne lays a solid foundation for her pursuit of social change. As a graduate student at the University of Nebraska Omaha, she is currently pursuing a Master’s of Science in Urban Studies, expanding her expertise in shaping thriving and inclusive urban environments.

In her role as Executive and Project Coordinator, Etienne seamlessly merges her administrative talent with her unwavering dedication to community engagement. Through her dynamic approach, she supports initiatives that bring positive transformation to the lives of individuals and families, ensuring a brighter future for all.

For more information about Canopy South visit canopysouth.org.

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Strictly Business NOVEMBER 2023

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PERSONNEL NEWS Maxwell Albrecht Joins Farris Engineering as a Mechanical Engineer – Colorado Office In September, Maxwell Albrecht joined Farris Engineering, Inc. as the newest Mechanical Engineer in their Colorado Springs, CO office. New to the architecture, engineering and construction industry, Maxwell attended the University of Colorado – Colorado Springs and received his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, with a minor in aerospace engineering. He has over four years of experience working in dynamic thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and collaborating in team settings.

“Max brings a lot of talent and curiosity, and we can already tell he’s a great addition to our team,” said Ashley Davis, Farris Engineering Vice President and Fire Protection and Mechanical Engineer.

Apart from work, Max is an avid outdoorsman – fishing, hunting, hiking and biking in his free time. In addition, he is also a basketball coach at the local YMCA. He recently became a member of The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) within the State of Colorado.

One thing he has been looking forward to the most since starting with Farris is working on large commercial mechanical design projects. The Farris team is looking forward to watching him grow and develop as an employee and overall young professional in the A/E/C industry.

Farris Engineering is an industry leader in mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering with additional expertise in fire protection engineering, lighting design, building commissioning services, technology systems design and life safety systems engineering. To learn more, visit farris-usa.com.

Hamiltons to Receive Midlands Community Foundation’s 2024 Reflection Award Midlands Community Foundation (MCF) is pleased to announce that Carey and Brian Hamilton will receive the Reflection Award at the organization’s 2024 Reflection Ball on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at the Embassy Suites in LaVista. Each year, MCF honors an individual or individuals who have contributed significantly to Sarpy and/or Cass counties and the mission of the Foundation with its Reflection Award.

Brian graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. He serves on the board of the Nebraska New Car and Truck Dealers Association and on the Offutt Air Force Base Advisory Council. Brian is the past Treasurer of the National Automobile Dealers Association, the past Chair of Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and was a University of Nebraska Foundation Board Member.

Carey graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska Omaha and attended Harvard Business School Executive Management Program. She serves on the boards of Bellevue University, the University of Nebraska Foundation, Assurity Life Insurance, the Nebraska Cultural Endowment and was a founding member of Women Investing in Nebraska.

To become a sponsor or to register to attend the event, visit midlandscommunity.org. The mission of Midlands Community Foundation is to be a catalyst for lasting impact in Sarpy and Cass counties. To learn more, visit midlandscommunity.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

The National Association of Women in Construction – Greater Omaha Chapter 116 Announces the 2023-2024 Board of Directors The National Association of Women in Construction Greater Omaha Chapter 116 is delighted to introduce its new Board of Directors for the 2023-2024 term. This marks an exciting and promising year for their chapter as they continue to empower and advance women in the construction industry.

The NAWIC Greater Omaha Chapter 116 has a rich history of supporting women in construction and promoting their achievements within the industry. With the new board members stepping into leadership roles, they are enthusiastic about the future and the positive impact they can make on the local construction industry and community.

These dedicated individuals bring a wealth of experience, expertise and enthusiasm to their respective roles and NAWIC is confident that they will lead the chapter to new heights in the coming year.

NAWIC Greater Omaha Chapter 116 continues to focus on the its mission of enhancing the success of women in the construction industry through education, networking and support. Their chapter provides valuable opportunities for professional development, mentorship and community involvement to help women thrive in this dynamic field.

NAWIC Greater Omaha Chapter 116 invites construction industry professionals, both women and men, to join them in celebrating this exciting year and to learn more about the benefits of NAWIC membership. For more information, please visit www.nawicomaha.org.

Centris Federal Credit Union Promotes Julie Strohfus to VP, Retail Financial Services Centris Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce the promotion of Julie Strohfus to Vice President, Retail Financial Services.

Strohfus brings 20 years of credit union experience to her new role. She began her career as a Credit Union Loan Processor, ascended to Vice President of Indirect & Consumer Lending and most recently served as Vice President, Products for Centris. In her new role, she will manage all aspects of the retail banking division including the retail products division, contact center and the credit union’s 15 branch locations throughout Nebraska and Council Bluffs, IA. Strohfus has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska-Omaha and a Master of Arts in Management from Bellevue University. She is active in the Omaha community having served the Western Douglas County Chamber of Commerce board of directors. She serves on the Community Foundation for Western Iowa’s Mental Health Steering Committee, Heartland Family Service where she is the immediate past chairman of the board of directors.

Centris Federal Credit Union, founded in 1934, is one of Nebraska’s largest federally chartered community credit unions. Centris serves Douglas, Sarpy, Lincoln, McPherson and Pottawattamie counties, and has 15 offices located in Omaha, Grand Island, North Platte and Tryon, NE and Council Bluffs, IA. Centris has been voted Omaha Magazine’s Best Credit Union for 14 consecutive years. For more information, visit www.centrisfcu.org.

NOVEMBER 2023 Strictly Business 23

The Professional Pathway Network TradeGamz is a network that brings Businesses, Educators, and Students together for the purpose of showing Students what each profession does and giving them advice on how to get there.

Promote Your Business Businesses sign up to promote themselves through video and photo content. Students in the network are introduced to industry specific content straight from the professionals, and from there are shown the opportunities for moving into that career. This means TradeGamz is an easy way to teach potential hires about what you do.

Educate The Emerging Workforce Educators can use TradeGamz in the classroom as a tool to help Students in their career exploration journey. While Students are exploring the amazing opportunities the world has to offer, they are building their resume and portfolio to be shared with industry professionals.

Empower Students Students want to be successful! With the freedom to privately search any career they choose, it’s important to show them what they need to know to get started in your industry. TradeGamz makes it easy for them to reach out when the time is right for them to take the next step. Have your opportunities ready.

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Strictly Business NOVEMBER 2023

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PERSONNEL NEWS Project Harmony Welcomes Nicole Cooper as Chief Financial Officer

McGill Law Welcomes Taylor Matthias as Associate Attorney

Project Harmony is thrilled to welcome Nicole Cooper as their Chief Financial Officer, bringing a wealth of expertise and a diverse background to their team.

Nicole's journey is marked by outstanding academic achievements, professional accolades and a commendable dedication to community service.

McGill Law is thrilled to announce that Taylor Matthias has joined their family law team as an Associate Attorney based out of their Lincoln office! Taylor’s dedication and commitment to her clients speaks volumes.

With a wealth of experience, knowledge and compassion, Taylor embodies the essence of McGill Law’s core values and what it means to advocate for families during difficult times.

Nicole has been a licensed Certified Public Accountant with the State of Nebraska since 2019, a testament to her proficiency in financial management and her dedication to upholding the highest industry standards. Her participation in the AICPA Leadership Academy, Class of 2020, further underscores her exceptional leadership capabilities.

Beyond her professional achievements, Nicole's engagement in various volunteer roles demonstrates her passion for giving back. She actively contributes to organizations such as the St. Stephen the Martyr Home and School Association, the NESCPA Accounting Careers Committee and the UNO School of Accounting Advisory Board.

Nicole's professional journey is complemented by an extraordinary personal history. Serving eight years in the military, including deployments to Iraq and Kuwait in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, she embodies the values of discipline, perseverance and adaptability. Her extensive experience in accounting, spanning public, corporate and nonprofit sectors, equips her with a comprehensive understanding of financial dynamics in diverse environments.

Please join Project Harmony in extending a warm welcome to Nicole as she embarks on this new chapter. Find out more about Project Harmony at www.projectharmony.com or by calling (402) 595-1326.

Strictly Business Welcomes Kacey Russell as New Director of Operations Strictly Business would like to welcome Kacey Russell to the team as the newest Director of Operations. Kacey's role will include a wide variety of responsibilities, including client correspondence, account management, event planning and networking. She has had several years of experience in a few different fields, including social media, marketing, event planning and talent acquisition.

Kacey and her husband, Owen, grew up right here in Lincoln and call it home. Kacey and Owen have a nine-month-old little boy named Brighton who loves to show off his spunky personality. When Kacey is not in the office, you can find her either curled up with a book or on the hunt for a new breakfast cafe to try. Breakfast is by far her favorite meal, and right now her go to breakfast food is either French toast or a breakfast burrito. She is always taking recommendations for new places to try.

"I am so excited to join the Strictly Business team and am looking forward to working with and building relationships with all our clients," shared Kacey.

Please help Strictly Business welcome Kacey Russell! She can be reached at the office at (402) 466-3330 or by email at kacey@strictlybusinessomaha.com. To view monthly articles and stories on Omaha businesses and other local professionals, visit strictlybusinessomaha.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Taylor has lived in Lincoln for the past eight years. She graduated from Nebraska Wesleyan University with the highest distinction in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in History-Social Science Education. Taylor has always been interested in educating and advocating for others. She graduated from the Nebraska College of Law in 2022 with a concentrated study in Family Law. During law school, she was a semi-finalist in the Frank & Lawson Client Counseling Competition and was a senior certified law student, giving her practical experience working with clients in difficult situations.

Taylor spends her time outside work with her husband, family and friends. She enjoys being active and outside, running and playing tennis.

McGill Law specializes in helping families through legal issues like divorce, adoptions, child custody and modifications. To contact McGill Law, call (402) 548-5418 or email info@McGillLawyers.com. For more information, go to McGillLawyers.com.

Brookestone Meadows’ Resident Featured at DreamWeaver’s Annual Boots and Buckets Fundraiser Brookestone Meadows was honored to have one of their residents featured at DreamWeaver’s Annual Boots and Buckets Fundraiser event on September 21. The event's main goal was to help make seniors’ dreams come true.

One of their residents’, Walter Sullivan, dream was to attend a Husker’s Football Game. Not only did his dream come true, but he was also recognized for his courage during WWll on the big screen at halftime.

Walter was beaming with joy and excitement! In the months leading up to the game, the team from DreamWeaver’s brought game day gear to keep his spirits bright. You could say he had the best day ever!

Following the game, Walter was nominated by his community to be their Resident Council President. Shortly after this accomplishment, he was also named Nebraska Resident of the Year. Every morning, Walter would wake with a smile on his face and greet all his fellow neighbors. He never missed the opportunity to go over everything the day had in store and encouraged those around him to attend the activities and join him in conversation.

Like his role in World War II, Walter took pride in being a fearless leader and was a voice for those who had grown quiet over the years. He represented all that was good and kind and never left anyone behind. Each day, Walter chose to be his best possible self because he knew it would make others' days brighter.

Learn more about Brookestone Meadows at brookestonemeadows.com or contact (402) 289-2696 / brookestonemeadows@vhsmail.com.

NOVEMBER 2023 Strictly Business 25

NONPROFIT NEWS

WE WORK. WE GROW. WE LIVE. WE CONTRIBUTE.

Girls on the Run Launching New Curriculum in Spring Girls on the Run of Nebraska (GOTR) will implement a brandnew curriculum for the spring 2024 season called “Hello, Superstar!”

Girls on the Run provides afterschool programming that builds confidence, character and fitness in third- through sixth-grade girls.

GOTR teams of 10 to 20 girls meet twice weekly for two months to complete an innovative curriculum that blends life-skills lessons with physical training to complete a 5K run.

Thank you to these businesses who recently joined the Chamber and invested in the community Ponca Tribe of NE

ACE Hauling Junk Removal & Moving Aloft Omaha Aksarben

Rahama Petroleum LLC dba NP Mart #13

C2K Appliance

ReAwakening You, LLC

Computer Hardware Inc.

Saffron Urban Indian Kitchen

DaVita Dialysis

Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc.

Ervin & Smith

Spare Time Entertainment

First Round LLC Georgia’s House of Hope Kinetic Physical Therapy Corp

Sunmed | Your CBD Store SVAR LLC Tippl, LLC

KM CFO & Accounting Services Mighty Dog Roofing

Ventura Medstaff Xenon A Stephanie Moss Academy

Oxide

Join today at

OmahaChamber.org

402-346-5000 26

Strictly Business NOVEMBER 2023

Since its inception with 11 girls and two coaches in September 2003, Girls on the Run of Nebraska has expanded to serve more than 24,000 girls and 3,000 coaches at 100+ sites across the state.

The “Hello, Superstar!” curriculum will boost confidence with a series of lessons teaching girls to embrace their individuality. A lesson called “My Body Rocks” focuses on addressing body-shaming and promoting a healthy body image. Another lesson, “The Recipe of Me,” encourages self-reflection and asks girls to identify what makes them uniquely them. These lessons include fun running games to help girls prepare to complete the GOTR 5K at the end of the season.

Visit www.GOTRNebraska.org to bring GOTR to your school or to get involved.

Epilepsy Foundation Promotes National Epilepsy Awareness Month Since 1969, the Epilepsy Foundation has recognized November as National Epilepsy Awareness Month (NEAM). To lear n more about the importance of NEAM, visit www.epilepsy. com/stories/importance-national-epilepsy-awareness-month.

Although 3.4 million people and their families are affected by epilepsy in the United States, much is still misunderstood about this brain disorder. People with epilepsy and seizures experience multiple daily challenges, such mood changes, sleep, thinking and memory issues, social and financial concerns. Judgement and lack of information about the condition can also create more obstacles for members of the epilepsy community. NEAM is an entire month dedicated to uplifting individuals living with the epilepsies and educating the public on what it means to experience seizures.

The Epilepsy Foundation is a national voluntary health agency dedicated solely to the welfare of the nearly 3.4 million people living with epilepsy in the U.S. and their families. The Foundation works to ensure that people with seizures are able to participate in all life experiences and to promote research for a cure. To contact Epilepsy Foundation Nebraska, email Nebraska@efa.org or call (402) 715-9422. For more information, visit epilepsy.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS Christian Record Services Expands Offices with Opening of Braille Production Suite Christian Re c o r d Ser vices, Inc. (CRS), located in the Lincoln Trade Center, is proud to announce the opening of its new office space dedicated to the production of braille resources. This expansion marks a significant commitment to serving the worldwide visually impaired community and enhancing access to braille literature for all.

Earlier this year, CRS received $597,000 from the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists to increase its braille production capacity.

“With this expansion, we will contribute to braille literacy and address the book famine that currently exists, with less than 10% of published works available in accessible formats in developed countries and less than 1% in undeveloped countries,” said Diane Thurber, President of CRS. The new office space is equipped with technology designed to streamline the braille production process. From high-speed embossers to specialized software for transcribing written text into braille to workspace to assemble the braille books, every detail has been considered to ensure efficiency and precision.

The organization hopes this expansion will not only meet many of the immediate needs of the visually impaired community, but also inspire other institutions to prioritize accessibility in their outreach efforts.

For more information about Christian Record Services, visit www.christianrecord.org, call (402) 488-0981 or email info@ christianrecord.org.

Angels Among Us Opens New Harper Hope Center for Pediatric Families The Harper Hope Center is the new h o m e o f A n ge l s Among Us that recently opened.

The new space will allow Angels Among Us to welcome the pediatric cancer families they serve into a facility that was designed just for them. This space includes a TV lounge area, a space for meetings, crafting, facilitating support groups for bereaved families, a kitchen to host warm meals for families, laundry for families staying at the hospital and a place of respite for all. To be within walking distance of Children’s Nebraska and a short drive from Nebraska Medicine makes this facility easy to access for families traveling near and far for their child’s cancer treatment.

This project would not have been possible without The Harper Family Foundation, Schemmer Gives Back and countless other donors who contributed the needed funding to outfit the space.

Angels Among Us is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide financial and emotional support to any family whose child is battling pediatric cancer living in or being treated in the state of Nebraska. Since 2006, nearly 700 families have been supported with over $5 million in financial support. If you are interested in touring the Harper Hope Center, please contact Aly Goedeken at alyssa@ myangelsamongus.org / (402) 934-0999. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

A team that cares and a team that listens

With over 400 combined years of experience and service to clients, our Personal Trust & Wealth Management department is the largest staffed, full-service trust department in Nebraska.

UBT serves as a fiduciary providing a full range of wealth and investment services for individuals and institutions. We are highly regulated by the FDIC and the State of Nebraska and also have a robust internal audit department.

A unique approach Our comprehensive team focuses on each individuals unique personal and financial goals, providing investment management, financial planning, trust and estate administration and private banking services. Collaboratively, we administer sound estate planning documents that were drafted with efficient tax, family and asset protection goals in mind. Family owned since 1965, we understand the importance of our services.

We provide premier wealth management and trust services through a dedicated, talented and caring staff

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NONPROFIT NEWS Mosaic in Omaha Relocates to New Administrative Office

Nebraska Community Foundation Network Reinvests Over $500M into State

Mosaic in Omaha recently relocated to a new Administrative Office at 13919 S. P l a z a a s o f September 1. For more information about Mosaic in Omaha, please visit their website or stop by their new office for a visit. A ribbon cutting ceremony is being planned for the Spring of 2024.

The Nebraska Comm unity Foundation (NCF) network reached a major milestone in 2023, reinvesting more than $500 million throughout greater Nebraska in just under 30 years of community building work.

Mosaic in Omaha would also love to invite you to attend their monthly Discover the Possibilities Tours, held the second Wednesday of every month at their National Supports Office, to learn more about who they are and what they do. Their next event will take place November 8 at 9 a.m. or 11:30 a.m. Please contact Jessica Westerlin at jessica. westerlin@mosaicinfo.org to be added to the guest list.

Mosaic is a whole-person healthcare organization reaching across 13 states in more than 700 communities and providing support to nearly 4,900 people. Services empower people with disabilities, mental and behavioral health needs and autism, as well as aging adults to live their best life. Mosaic is an affiliated social ministry organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and a member of Lutheran Services in America. Mosaic is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.

For more information about Mosaic in Omaha, visit www.mosaicinfo. org/locations/nebraska/omaha or www.mosaicinfo.org.

Nebraska Folklife to Host Dia De Los Muertos Event November 5 Nebraska Folklife invites everyone to a vibrant cultural experience at thier annual Dia De Los Muertos celebration and their final 20th anniversary event for the year, held at the Auld Pavilion in Lincoln on November 5 from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This event is a testament to Nebraska Folklife’s commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of music, folk traditions and cultural significance embedded in Dia De Los Muertos.

Dia De Los Muertos promises a day filled with cultural immersions and entertainment, while bringing members of our community together.

Nebraska Folklife extends an open invitation to everyone to join them with this celebration. Be a part of shared exploration, appreciation and commemoration of the dynamic traditions that give life to Dia De Los Muertos.

Join Nebraska Folklife in honoring and celebrating the lives of departed loved ones through a lineup of performances featuring renowned groups such as Mariachi Zapata, Sangre Azteca, Danza Tlacololeros De Schuyler and more. The Auld Pavilion will come alive with the sounds and rhythms that capture the essence of this unique celebration.

People can engage with multiple booths, offering glimpses at some Dia De Los Muertos traditions, and indulge in crafts that reflect the artistry of this event. Nebraska Folklife will have food vendors that will complement the festive atmosphere.

For more information and to get involved with Nebraska Folklife, please visit nebraskafolklife.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

There are currently 245 affiliated funds in the NCF network serving 269 communities in 81 of Nebraska’s 93 counties. In the most recent fiscal year (July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023), NCF affiliated funds reinvested $54 million in their communities through grants and disbursements – the most in a single year since NCF’s establishment in 1994. The NCF network ended the fiscal year with $227 million in total assets.

Across the NCF network, all grantmaking is determined at the local level according to local needs and priorities. This past year, volunteers have used their resources to fund ESL classes in Perkins County, a new aquatic center in Waverly, an early childhood center for Loup and Garfield counties, the ongoing cultural exchange between southwest Nebraska and North Omaha, an all-day interactive science event in Pender, housing efforts in Keith County and so much more.

The NCF network convenes November 9 at Kearney’s Younes Conference Center for its 2023 Annual Fund Training and Celebration, themed “Dreams Inspire Dreams.” NCF volunteers and fellow ambitious Nebraskans will gather for a day of peer learning and training on a variety of topics including fundraising, marketing, impact grantmaking, community economic development and more.

For information about the Nebraska Community Foundation, visit NebraskaHometown.org.

Abide to Host Christmas Store December 9 Abide is gearing up for their annual Christmas Store on Saturday, December 9, from 9 a.m. to noon at 3223 N 45th St. With your help, Abide is providing 2,000 brand new gifts to 1,000 kids in North Omaha! To help ensure that every kid has a gift to open on Christmas morning, volunteer your time or donate a toy. Toys are being collected for children ages 0-10.

For the first time since 2020, Abide will be hosting an in-person Christmas Store shopping experience for the community! The toys that Abide gathers will be free to members of the community that cannot afford to purchase gifts for their children. Abide will even wrap the gift on-site for free on December 9! Abide invites you to join them as they celebrate the season with our community. All ages are welcome!

More information about Christmas on Campus can be found at www. abideomaha.org/christmas-on-campus.

The mission of Abide is to revitalize the inner city, one neighborhood at a time. Abide takes a grassroots, holistic approach focused on developing safer neighborhoods, stronger families and emerging leaders. To get in touch with Abide, email info@abidenetwork.org or call (402) 455-7807. For more information about how you can “get in the game” with Abide, please visit www.abideomaha.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS Foster Care Closet Receives $20K Grant from Cooper Foundation

CUES Welcomes New Members to Board of Directors

Foster Care Closet recently received a $20,000 grant from Cooper Foundation to put towards general operation that supports emergency services and meets the immediate needs of youth entering foster care. They are grateful for the support of such a prestigious organization! For more information about Cooper Foundation, visit cooperfoundation.org.

CUES has added seven new members to their Board of Directors that will help in the process of governing the organization. Along with their new members, current member John Schuele has accepted the role of Chairman of the board. All members bring diverse skills and perspectives to the table and help ensure that the board remains successful in its decision-making and strategic direction. These new members have shown that they will be amazing assets to the board and will help CUES grow and prosper.

Foster Care Closet has been serving youth in foster care since 2006.

They have grown from handing out used clothes from their founder’s house to a statewide organization now serving kids in all 93 of Nebraska’s counties. Their staff is dedicated to restoring dignity to youth in crisis and works with urgency to meet the immediate needs of the kids in care.

To shop for new clothes, please call (402) 803-1765 to set up a time to shop. Youth can choose five tops, five bottoms, a pair of shoes, seven pairs of socks, seven pairs of underwear, pajamas and a season appropriate jacket in the first 90 days they are in care. Clothing is available for pick up at Release the Monday or Thursday after the youth makes their clothing selections. All of the Foster Care Closet stores have Fall/Winter clothing available.

For more information about Foster Care Closet, please visit fostercarecloset.org.

proud member of

CUES welcomes Angie Quinn, Dave Audino, John Reed Jr., Kerry Kelley, George Achola, Tony Veland and Jacob Idra to the CUES Board of Directors, and congratulates and thanks John Schuele for his work on the board and his commitment to chair the CUES Board of Directors.

The new members began their term for the CUES Board of Directors in July of this year and have been working hard to help maintain the goals and mission of CUES. These members have shown remarkable dedication to the City of Omaha with a great history of active positions on other nonprofit boards.

CUES is a bold educational initiative providing centralized leadership and governance to three underserved elementary schools in Omaha supporting a majority of low-income students and families. For more information, go to cuesschools.org.

MICAH House Invites Businesses to Host a Creative Holiday Drive November is here and that means SHARE Iowa will be promoting Giving Tuesday on November 28. During this special day, community members support local nonprofits with in-kind and monetary donations. This year, MICAH House is offering a unique option for businesses and community members to support clients during the holidays.

During the hustle and bustle of the holidays at MICAH House, often there are not as many holiday gifts available for teens and parents.

This year, MICAH House would like to collect gift cards to hang on a “Giving Tree” to disperse to these clients during Christmas.

MICAH House greatly appreciates business and group support during the holidays. Host a gift card drive during November and stop by November 28, Giving Tuesday, to drop off your collection. Perhaps the drive could be a competition, or participants must achieve a fun and silly task. The sky’s the limit with engaging your team in collecting gift cards for clients experiencing homelessness this Christmas. All in good fun, for the good cause of helping moms, dads and teens have a great holiday.

Needed gift cards include Walmart, Amazon and fast food.

Please email Maren Larsen, Philanthropy Director, at mlarsen@ themicahhouse.org with any questions.

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Learn more about MICAH House at www.themicahhouse.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS Community Foundation for Western Iowa Earmarks $250K for a 20% Match on Endowment Gifts During Giving Tuesday Leading the charge for Giving Tuesday on November 28 in western Iowa is SHARE Iowa, an initiative of the Community Foundation for Western Iowa.

SHARE Iowa is a one-stop online platform for supporting the good work of nonprofits in nine counties throughout Western Iowa by connecting residents to easy ways of doing good through financial giving, in-kind donations of items and volunteerism. SHARE Iowa’s resources are brought to the region by the Community Foundation for Western Iowa and through the generosity of the Charles E. Lakin Family Foundation.

The Community Foundation has again earmarked $250,000 for a 20% match on charitable gifts to endowment funds within the Community Foundation, up to $100,000 per fund. Nonprofits with an endowment fund at the Community Foundation can have supporters donate directly to their fund through the SHARE Iowa platform’s endowment button or the Community Foundation’s website.

SUPPORTING NONPROFITS

Endowment funds are designed to build and grow over time and are an investment to an organization’s future sustainability. A portion of the fund is made available annually, while the remaining assets are retained in the fund to provide for growth over time.

Strictly Business Magazine

Additionally, during this year’s Giving Tuesday 712 presented by Katelman Steel Fabrication, Inc., the Community Foundation will be providing an array of sponsored $1,000 hourly prizes for SHARE Iowa nonprofits in partnership with generous businesses and individuals.

SUPPORTING NONPROFITS

Learn more about Giving Tuesday 712 at www.sharegoodiowa.org.

January issue!

For more information about the Community Foundation for Western Iowa, visit givewesterniowa.org.

Do Space Celebrates Eight Years Do Space is celebrating eight years in business!

They invite you to j o i n t h e m fo r a n anniversary event Saturday, November 4, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Do Space located at 5111 N 90th St. This special event is free and requires no registration, so mark your calendars and get ready for a day of tech-filled fun. They have an exciting lineup of activities, including light snacks and cookies, virtual reality experiences, a showcase of cutting-edge tech kits and the chance to get hands-on with your own STEM projects. But, that’s not all – you can also step into the podcast studio and share your voice, ideas and stories. Don’t miss out on this incredible day of exploration and innovation at Do Space!

Do Space is a technology library providing free access to the latest software, devices and ultra-fast internet to the Omaha community. The one-of-a-kind concept creates a digital workshop and an innovation playground filled with new opportunities to learn, grow, explore and create through programs and events. To learn more, visit dospace.org or contact them at hello@dospace.org / (402) 819-4022. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

is preparing to run our special feature in the

The feature includes a 150 word write-up about your organization as well as a logo to help create awareness and buzz in the area!

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NOVEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

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NONPROFIT NEWS Blue Collar Boxing Charity Event to Benefit United Way of the Midlands and NCWDE Get your tickets now for the hottest event in town, Blue Collar Boxing, presented by Limitless Male! This annual charity boxing event, hosted by the Omaha Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO and United Way of the Midlands (UWM), will take place on Wednesday, November 22, at Liberty First Credit Union Arena.

During Blue Collar Boxing, local labor union members will face off in the boxing ring for charity – with proceeds donated to the Nebraska Center for Workforce Development and Education (NCWDE) and United Way of the Midlands to support their work in our community.

General admission tickets start at $25 and can be purchased at bluecollarboxing.org or the Liberty First Credit Union Arena box office.

Partners since 1941, the relationship between the AFL-CIO and United Way is built upon a mutual desire to create a better, stronger and more vibrant community. Because of their shared commitment to our community, the organizations created this amateur boxing event in 2019.

The atmosphere will be electric, the energy will be high and the arena will be rocking! So, mark your calendars and get your tickets today for Blue Collar Boxing, November 22, at Liberty First Credit Union Arena in Ralston.

For more information about the event or to become a sponsor, visit bluecollarboxing.org.

For more information about United Way of the Midlands, visit UnitedWayMidlands.org.

Open Door Mission Seeking Volunteers to Help Families During the Holidays Open Door Mission is seeking volunteers to help people in our community struggling to make ends meet during the holiday season.

Help consumers choose their food options as a Turkey ‘N’ Fixins Helper, help fill and hand out more than 5,000 to-go containers with a delicious pre-cooked Thanksgiving meal for Feed the Multitudes on November 18, serve a holiday meal, greet parents and help them pick out Christmas presents as a Toy N Joy Impact Maker. See the complete list of Holiday Volunteer Opportunities. To get started, fill out an application. Find out more at www.opendoormission.org/volunteer.

Open Door Mission also needs businesses, groups, individuals and families to host a drive or shop their Amazon Wish List to help meet the need. You can help by hosting a Turkey N Fixins Food drive for Thanksgiving, Project Santa Toy Drive for Christmas or Christmas Bells Drive.

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

Each day, Open Door Mission’s campus offers 917 safe shelter beds to homeless men, women and children, serves over 4,747 nutritious meals and provides preventative measures to more than 1,000 people living in poverty. Learn more at www.opendoormission.org or call (402) 829-1538 to get in touch with Open Door Mission. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Join the Heartland Cancer Foundation in Supporting Cancer Patients this Holiday Season Following the hustle and bustle of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Giving Tuesday emerges as an annual celebration of compassion and generosity – and Heartland Cancer Foundation (HCF) is all for it. Set to take place on Tuesday, November 28, this day reminds philanthropists and community members to not forget to support their favorite causes during the holiday season.

Among the myriad of charitable organizations, the Heartland Cancer Foundation stands out with its unwavering commitment to ensuring that no cancer patient falls behind on treatment due to financial struggles.

When you choose to donate to HCF on Giving Tuesday, you directly contribute to their mission of providing practical and immediate financial assistance to eligible cancer patients in our community so they can focus on what matters most: healing.

Your generous gift will provide a ray of compassion and hope, reducing the financial burden that often accompanies a cancer diagnosis. Specifically, your donation will enable the foundation to offer housing and transportation grants to local cancer patients in need of extra support during their treatment.

To participate and make a difference, mark your calendar for November 28 and visit heartlandcancerfoundation.org to donate online. Let's come together as a community to support those bravely battling both cancer and financial hardship this holiday season. Your contribution could be the spark of hope they desperately need.

Learn more about how you can support the Heartland Cancer Foundation at heartlandcancerfoundation.org.

Bridges to Hope Breaks Ground for Hope Village Bridges to Hope has officially closed on proper ty from the City of Lincoln at North 27th and Leighton Avenue! This land will be the future home of Hope Village, Lincoln’s first tiny home village! Bridges to Hope is excited to bring this housing solution to individuals who have been justice involved and to the Lincoln community. They are partnering with the Department of Corrections and Millard Lumber to build the homes in a correctional setting, giving men and women valuable work experience.

Bridges to Hope held a Groundbreaking Ceremony on Friday, October 27, to celebrate this milestone. Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird began the ceremony with opening remarks, and their neighbors at Matt Talbot Kitchen and Outreach graciously hosted a breakfast reception afterwards – a true community partnership.

Bridges to Hope provides services to men and women who have been released from incarceration and are making the transition to a productive life outside of the cell. Their fundraising efforts include Bud’s Thrift Shoppe (2226 O St.), which helps generate money for the sustainability of the organization – 100% of the proceeds from the store go directly back to fund Bridges to Hope’s mission. For more information about the organization or to donate to the cause, visit bridgestohopene.org or contact Executive Director Rhonda Mattingly at (402) 420-5696 / Rhonda@bridgestohopene.org.

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NONPROFIT NEWS The Council of Independent Nebraska Colleges Foundation Announces Scholarship Challenge Grant Campaign

La Fuente Business Center Announces Women Entrepreneurs (Mujeres Emprendedoras) Program Celebrates Third Graduation

The Council of Independent Nebraska Colleges Foundation (CINCF) is currently celebrating its 70th anniversary. Since its founding in July 1953 as the Nebraska Independent College Foundation, CINCF has distributed over $40 million in student scholarships to its member institutions.

Nearly 125 families celebrated their graduation from La Fuente Business Center’s MUJERES EMPRENDEDORAS (Women Entrepreneurs) Program on Saturday, October 14. The third annual event will take place at the Kroc Center (2825 Y St.) in South Omaha from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

In an effort to recognize and celebrate its 70th anniversary milestone, CINCF has launched the 70th Anniversary Scholarship Challenge Campaign that upon completion will create a $70,000 pool of new scholarship dollars to be awarded to students enrolled at CINCF’s member colleges and universities.

The MUJERES EMPRENDEDORAS (Women Entrepreneurs) program was started in May 2020 as a response to COVID-19, which had a profoundly negative economic impact on Omaha’s families of color. Many members of the Latino community are now turning to entrepreneurship as a way to supplement their income and afford basic necessities.

This scholarship challenge opportunity is made possible by a Scholarship Challenge Grant from the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC). “The Council of Independent Colleges is proud to support CINCF and its member colleges through CIC’s Scholarship Challenge Grant Program,” said Marjorie Hass, President of the Council of Independent Colleges. “The grant will provide additional scholarship aid for students of second-year status or higher at CINCF’s four-year colleges and universities.”

CINCF’s 13 member schools include Bellevue University, Bryan College of Health Sciences, Clarkson College, College of Saint Mary, Concordia University, Creighton University, Doane University, Hastings College, Midland University, Nebraska Methodist College, Nebraska Wesleyan University, Union College and York University.

CINCF is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to making excellent higher education opportunities accessible to students from diverse backgrounds and communities. For more information about CINCF and the 70th Anniversary Scholarship Challenge Campaign, please visit CINCF www.cincfoundation.org.

I cannot express how pleased we are with our decision to advertise with Strictly Business for The Wedding Planner Omaha and Florist of Omaha.

The exposure and visibility we’ve gained through their platform have been remarkable. The team at Strictly Business truly understands our business needs and has crafted advertising solutions that perfectly align with our goals. The results have been outstanding, driving more clients to our services and helping us grow. Their professionalism, creativity, and commitment to our success have made them an invaluable partner in our business journey. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Strictly Business for years to come.

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Strictly Business NOVEMBER 2023

This is La Fuente’s third graduation ceremony, which will celebrate the accomplishments of more than 100 Spanish-speaking women who have completed the nonprofit’s Financial Education, Business Planning and Business Administration trainings. These programs lead participants through all stages of entrepreneurship, from managing personal finances properly as a foundation for business ownership to forming an LLC and managing and growing a small business over time. In the past year, La Fuente has helped these women and their families take an important step toward financial stability and generational wealth by planning for and opening small businesses in the childcare, construction, commercial and residential cleaning and food service industries.

For more information about La Fuente Business Center, visit lafuentebusinesscenter.org or contact Kaylene Serrano, Program Coordinator, at info@lafuentebusinesscenter.org / (402) 933-4466.

Youth Emergency Services Recaps Dance for a Chance Youth Emergency Services (YES) is on cloud nine after the electrifying night they had at Dance for a Chance! The energies and smiles of attendees transformed the dance floor into a magical place, and YES can't thank them enough for making it all happen!

Everyone who joined brought the groove, the rhythm and the joy!

Their presence turned a regular night into an extraordinary one. The dancers and instructors’ passion and dedication during the summer and into the fall was contagious, and everyone really brought their “A” game!

Similar to Dancing with the Stars, Dance for a Chance paired up dancers with instructors, who then worked together to create a dance, picked accompanying music and practiced over the summer before competing in October. At the same time, the dancers were working within their personal and professional networks – largely via social media – to raise awareness and money for Youth Emergency Services.

This year's Halloween Ball theme inspired dancers and instructors to don costumes and infuse spooky dance elements into their performances, reflecting their song choices.

Youth Emergency Services is the only nonprofit in Omaha with the sole mission to help youth experiencing homelessness and nearhomelessness. Last year, YES provided support and services to more than 750 youth in the Omaha metro area. Learn more about YES at www.yesomaha.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS

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AIM Institute Honored Businesses, Innovators and Visionaries at AIM Tech Awards Presented by Cox Business Leading Omaha tech nonprofit AIM Institute honored businesses, innovators and educators impacting the tech community at AIM Tech Awards presented by Cox Business on September 28 at Certified Transmission Owner Peter Fink’s Muscle Car Museum. The event secured the highest level of fundraising in its history, supporting AIM initiatives and programs.

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The following are winners of the 2023 AIM Tech Awards: Technology Company of the Year: CompLogix; Technology Leader of the Year: Laurie Zagurski, OPPD’s Manager of Stakeholder and Community Outreach; Technology Innovator of the Year: Andy Bayer, Distinguished Architect at Buildertrend; Tech Start-up of the Year: Superb Shifts; Higher Ed Tech Leader of the Year: Metro Community College’s Continued Education and Workforce Education Division; K-12 Educator of the Year: Melissa Zeiszler, Dean of STEAM at Kennedy Elementary School; College Intern of the Year: Lah Soe; Tech Student of the Year: Tvisha Agarwal; AIM After School Program Student of the Year: Ja’Shon Westbrook; AIM Code School Student of the Year: John Pratt; AIM TRIO Students of the Year: Mark Sanchez, Devin Henk; Dr. Kandace Miller Tech Champion: Adam Haeder, Google Operations Manager.

“We were excited to recognize these incredible change makers and raise awareness of AIM Institute’s important work serving almost 6,000 people a year,” said AIM President and CEO Renee Franklin.

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For 30 years, Omaha-based AIM Institute has been the region’s leading nonprofit dedicated to growing a strong and diverse tech talent community through effective programing and outreach initiatives. For more information, please visit aiminstitute.org, call (402) 979-8324 or email info@aiminstitute.org.

Autism Action Partnership Partners with American Midwest Ballet for The Nutcracker Performance November 19 Autism Action Partnership (AAP) is thrilled to be working with American Midwest Ballet for the third annual SensoryFriendly performance of The Nutcracker. You won’t want to miss this family holiday tradition on Sunday, November 19, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center (1001 S. 6th St., Council Bluffs, IA 51501). Tickets are $3 per person and can be purchased at ow.ly/JtFZ50PUPQE.

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For 15 Years, Autism Action Partnership has served the needs of the Nebraska autism community. AAP offers programming focused on support, inclusion and prosperity. In addition to events and programming for the autism community, AAP launched their COMPASS training program to grow inclusion efforts in our community by educating the general public, which increases acceptance and understanding of the autism community.

Autism Action Partnership aims to improve the quality of life of persons on the Autism Spectrum and their families though education, advocacy and support, thereby enabling them to be an integral part of the community. For more information, visit www.AutismAction.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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BUSINESS OWNERS

Pets

& THEIR

CELEBRATING

BUSINESS OWNERS ALONG WITH THEIR COMPANIONS

Strictly Business Magazine is preparing to run our BUSINESS OWNERS AND THEIR PETS special feature in the December issue!

Inclusion in the feature involves a short write-up about your business and your pets as well as a photo of you and your pet!

Contact Strictly Business

TODAY if you love your pets!

NONPROFIT NEWS Jennie Edmundson Foundation Kicks-Off Caring Campaign Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital (MJE) and the Jennie Edmundson Foundation are grateful for every person who gives donations and their time throughout the year. They transform your gifts and time immediately into better patient care, health and outcomes.

Each year during their Caring Campaign, they focus on several areas for giving, including breast health, wellness, cardiovascular, cancer and caring for our community and many more. As the end of the year approaches, the hospital is focusing on ways you may wish to give your year-end gift that helps them to continue providing high quality care for you and your family. This year’s Caring Campaign is concentrating on the transformation of their Cardiovascular Suites. By continuing to grow and create a new state of the art cardiovascular care facility, MJE will continue to provide the high quality care you and your family deserve.

“We pride ourselves in treating every patient at Jennie as we would treat our own family. Undertaking this restoration with state of the art cardiovascular suites, we can continue to push MJE hospital to be the leading provider across our region with our nationally accredited and renowned doctors, nurses and associates that work here,” shared Tara Slevin, President, JE Foundation & Chief Philanthropy Officer.

The act of ‘giving’ is very personal and a heartfelt act of kindness, and Jennie Edmundson Foundation looks at each gift of giving as a way you show your commitment to them and what they do throughout your community and SW Iowa.

Please consider a gift to the Jennie Edmundson Foundation. For more information or to donate, visit jehfoundation.org or call (712) 3966040. Thank you for your continued support!

JDRF Goes Blue for World Diabetes Day November 14 JDRF, the leading global organization funding T1D research, invites the community to join in commemorating National Diabetes Awareness Month this November by raising awareness of T1D and the urgent need to accelerate life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat T1D and its complications.

Go Blue with JDRF on Tuesday, November 14, World Diabetes Day, to help raise awareness of type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. Wear blue, take a photo and share to social media using #GoBlueforJDRF! Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease in which insulinproducing beta cells in the pancreas are mistakenly destroyed by the body’s immune system. T1D seems to have a genetic component.

It occurs in children and adults. Its causes are not fully known, and there is currently no cure. People with T1D are dependent on injected or pumped insulin to survive.

Before a type 1 diabetes diagnosis, both children and adults often have the following symptoms: frequent urination, increased thirst, dry mouth, itchy or dry skin, increased appetite, unexplained weight loss and yeast infections.

shae@strictlybusinessomaha.com | (402) 466-3330

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Learn about JDRF and the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes by visiting jdrf.org/nebraskaiowa. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

NONPROFIT NEWS American Heart Association Announces Important Step Forward for Health of New Moms and Babies in Nebraska The American Heart Association is thrilled to announce that ensuring the health and well-being of new moms and babies took a positive step forward last week when Governor Pillen announced that Nebraska Medicaid postpartum coverage will be extended from two months to 12 months beginning on January 1, 2024.

Extending health care coverage from 60 days to 12 months following birth is important to addressing health issues that are discovered during pregnancy or resulting from pregnancy and will allow: • Lower income pregnant women to obtain comprehensive care coverage so they can get all of the health care services they need to be healthy during and following pregnancy • Lower risk of health problems for the baby during infancy and long-term benefits throughout growth and development • A higher rate of women more likely to seek well-child visits for their children • Fewer children at risk for out-of-home placement • Assistance with early identification and treatment of postpartum depression, quitting smoking, preventing violence and treating substance use disorders The American Heart Association’s mission is to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. For more information, visit www.heart.org.

COPE to Host Annual Christmas Gift Program December 8-9 The holiday season is fast approaching, and COPE is excited to be hosting their annual Christmas Gift Program for their neighbors in western Douglas County. COPE’s program is designed to bring joy and cheer to families in need who may not have the resources to fully enjoy the holiday season. They are asking for your generous help in providing gift cards. Your gift will help COPE to make sure that everyone who attends the program will leave with a smile on their face and a warm feeling in their heart.

The program is scheduled for December 8 and 9, and COPE needs your help to make this year's event the best one yet. Your donations will allow COPE to purchase gift cards and ensure that every adult in need who attends the program will receive a special gift. Please consider making a donation by November 15 so that COPE can make sure that everything is ready for the event. Scan the QR code or mail a check to COPE, P.O. Box 177, Elkhorn, NE 68022.

COPE appreciates your support in helping them make the holiday season brighter for those in need. With your help, they can make sure that everyone has a happy and memorable holiday season.

For more information, contact COPE at (402) 616-2330 or visit copeinfo.org.

Quest Forward High School Omaha to Host Open House November 16

FAMILY, Inc. Thanks Volunteers FAMILY wants to thank volunteers from United Way of the Midlands Day of Caring event! These volunteers worked tirelessly to pack monthly mailings for Medicaid families and bags for the upcoming Community Baby Shower.

Volunteers are an essential part of FAMILY’s vision; a resilient community built on strong partnerships and trust with equitable opportunities to thrive. Volunteers boost power, lighten the load and exponentially increase impact. Best of all, they do it because they believe in the cause and want to help. FAMILY has many ongoing opportunities throughout November and December as a part of the UWM Holiday Helpers program. Another opportunity to get involved is Giving Tuesday on Tuesday, November 28. Giving Tuesday is a global generosity movement that encourages people to give back to their communities by donating time, money or resources.

If you or your organization is interested in volunteering or making a donation, please contact Jessica Navarrete at (712) 256-9566 Ext 214 or jnavarrete@familyia.org.

FAMILY, Inc. is an early childhood and public health organization that provides education, support and connection to resources for women, children and families in western Iowa. To learn more about how to support FAMILY’s mission, visit www.familyia.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Quest Forward High School Omaha is thrilled to announce their upcoming open house, scheduled for November 16 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Their open house will provide an insight into their unique approach to education, emphasizing leadership development, college admission advantage and digital creativity. Attendees will have the chance to interact with their dedicated staff, explore their state-ofthe-art facilities and gain an understanding of how their curriculum prepares students for a successful future.

This event marks the beginning of an exciting new school year at Quest Forward High School Omaha. It’s an excellent opportunity for prospective students and their families to experience their innovative learning environment firsthand. Join them to discover why Quest Forward High School is the ideal choice for unlocking your child’s potential and fostering their growth as future leaders. They are now enrolling ninth through 12th grade students.

To sign up for the open house, visit omaha.questforward.academy/ open-house.

Quest Forward High School is a private high school located in Omaha, Nebraska. Established in 2017, the school was founded with the mission of providing a skills-forward, active learning approach to education. For more information, visit omaha.questforward.academy, call (402) 403-1267 Ext. #4 or email omaha@questforward. academy.

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NONPROFIT NEWS SAC Museum and Nebraska Department of Education Join Forces to Inspire Education and Exploration Last month, The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum (SAC) partnered with the Nebraska Department of Education for "Walk to Unloc k Nebraska.”

This partnership was an educational experience for students across Nebraska while promoting a deeper appreciation for the state’s rich history, natural beauty and educational opportunities – including introducing students to the SAC Museum.

The SAC Museum stop was along the central stretch of the walk. The immersive experience introduced students to the museum's rich history, aerospace artifacts and the vital role it played in our nation's defense.

"The SAC Museum is committed to inspiring the discovery of flight and space exploration, hoping to always educate visitors of all ages with the incredible stories of aviation and outer space within our venue,” said Clayton Anderson, President and CEO of the SAC Museum. “This partnership provides a unique opportunity to reach students across the state and allows them to learn more about the SAC Museum and the remarkable stories it holds."

The SAC Aerospace Museum’s continued success and impact relies on the support of individuals and the community. Supporters not only help preserve our aerospace heritage but also help ignite curiosity, inspire young minds and shape the future of aviation. Call the SAC Aerospace Museum at (402) 944-3100 or visit sacmuseum.org for more information.

Nebraska Safety Council Releases CONNECTIONS Podcast and Retro Apparel The Nebraska Safety Council (NESC) offers a FREE podcast for listeners on a variety of health and safety topics across all industries. From how to build a safety plan to how wellness affects those in the agribusiness sector, you can find something relevant and walk away with something new you can incorporate into your day-to-day operation.

Upcoming Event: Join NESC for episode six of the CONNECTIONS Podcast series on Thursday, December 7, from 12 to 1 p.m. Join them in-person at Hurrdat Sports Bar & Grill (12744 Westport Parkway, La Vista, NE 68138) or via Livestream on Facebook or X. Retro Branded Apparel: Support the Nebraska Safety Council with a new line of retro branded apparel! This new style offers a variety of colors (including tie dye) with a selection of unisex t-shirts, tank tops and sweatshirts.

Apparel is available for purchase with price ranges between $15 and $46. Purchase your NESC apparel at shirts101.store/NSC_merch/ shop/home.

The Mission of the Nebraska Safety Council is to provide education and leadership to empower Nebraskans to live safe and healthy. To learn more or to sign up for membership today, visit nesafetycouncil. org, call (402) 483-2511 or email nesc@nesafetycouncil.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Donations Needed for Stephen Center Merry Mart The giving season is upon us, and Stephen Center invites the community to spread holiday cheer by donating new board games, clothes, gift cards and other small items to the Merry Mart. The Merry Mart will provide Stephen Center clients the opportunity to shop for their children at no cost from donated items.

Gifts for adults are also needed so everyone at Stephen Center can open a gift on Christmas morning.

Stephen Center needs donations of new board games, craft kits for children and adults, travel coffee mugs, reusable water bottles, $10 gas station gift cards, movie theatre gift cards, baseballs, basketballs, footballs, hoodies (any size), sweatpants (any size), leggings (any size) and costume jewelry sets.

To participate, community members can drop off items at Stephen Center’s Donation Dock (2723 Q Street) or shop at home and ship directly to Stephen Center using the Merry Mart Wish List at www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1DXUP9R64TILY?ref_=wl_share.

Donations are requested no later than Monday, December 11.

Located in South Omaha, Stephen Center serves the homeless, addicted and those with mental health challenges. Learn more at stephencenter.org.

Humanities Nebraska Taking Part in Hosting Nebraska Warrior Writers Veterans and active duty military personnel in the state are invited to attend Nebraska Warrior Writers. This free writing workshop runs every fall and spring semester. It is presented

by Humanities Nebraska, the Nebraska Writing Project and the Veterans Administration.

The group meets Saturday mornings for two hour sessions to write, share and edit works in progress. In Omaha, they meet at Nebraska Wildlife Rescue’s Baldwin Conference Center. Online participation is available via Zoom. There is no obligation and participants can attend as many or as few sessions as they like.

Facilitated by professional writing instructors, Nebraska Warrior Writers helps participants develop the skills and understanding they need to write any genre they like. Participants have produced fiction, poetry, memoirs, essays and songs. When surveyed, 100% of participants agreed that the program had improved their writing skills and want to continue with the program.

“The guest presenters are amazing and have provoke a lot of writing and ideas,” one participant said. “The resources made available are helpful and I use them regularly.”

Others have noted that writing has been therapeutic. “Thank you,” one said, “for giving me my life back.”

Humanities Nebraska is a statewide nonprofit that is celebrating 50 years of helping people explore what connects us and makes us human. Visit humanitiesnebraska.org for more information.

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

MEMORY CARE Education & SpEcializEd trEatmEnt Homelike Memory Care

Designed for Quality of Life and Care

E

ducation plays a crucial role in memory care for seniors, particularly those experiencing cognitive decline or memory-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.

Education helps seniors and their caregivers understand the nature and progression of memory-related conditions. This knowledge allows seniors to better cope with their condition and helps caregivers provide appropriate care and support.

Prairie Meadows Alzheimer’s Care Center makes a point to provide exceptional, in-depth education for their team members in relation to memory care so that you never have to worry about your loved ones.

They train team members about the different types of dementia and share tactics and approaches that work best when working with those impacted by memory care.

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In turn, their homelike community setting uses that knowledge hand in hand when providing a residentcentered and resident-led approach through their SPARK training. SPARK uses tailor-fit assessment tools to evaluate each resident’s capabilities and strengths to engage residents in a way that heightens interaction and optimizes cognitive skills as well as promotes a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

Those working at Prairie Meadows love seeing the progress residents

make as they cope with memory loss. Having trained and empathetic staff offering individualized care plans is essential for promoting a sense of dignity and comfort, helping residents maintain their independence for as long as possible.

Specialized care like the kind provided at Prairie Meadows is crucial for anyone experiencing memory loss or a memory disease. Prairie Meadows offers more than just comfortable living. They offer a place to learn and grow so you can live your best life.

402.391.2790 prairiemeadowsseniorliving.com

Strictly Business NOVEMBER 2023

13208 Meredith Ave Omaha, NE 68164

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Holiday Cheer H

osting Thanksgiving and Christmas can be fun but also a bit tricky. Preparing your home for holiday guests involves a combination of cleaning, decorating and food preparation that can take you longer than you might think.

The first step is to clean your home and clear away any clutter that could get in the way of your guests.

You don’t need to stress about making everything meticulous – nobody is going to look in the closet you hid everything in on their way to the bathroom that’s on a separate floor. If you’re worried about that, or want a better clean anyway, look at hiring a professional that will take care of everything for you. There are plenty of great local businesses right here in Omaha that are happy to help you clean among other things.

Next, consider adding a touch of holiday decoration to boost festivity. You don’t need to go overboard; even simple touches like placing a wreath on the front door, stringing up some holiday lights and adorning a beautifully decorated tree can set the holiday mood.

One last thing that is important to consider for your holiday party at home is the food. Deciding what to make for the main focus of the meal is the easiest place to start. From there, figure out what sides you want to make and what dessert you want to finish the night off. If you aren’t cooking a big meal, or are having people over for an extended period of time, planning snacks ahead of time can be a tremendous help. Though some of us love to cook, if you aren’t a great cook or don’t have the time to cook everything you want at the holiday meal/party, consider catering. Some of our favorite foods made by the best Omaha chefs can be delivered right to your doorstep.

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Spruce Up Your Holiday Decor Festive flowers are a great way to bring holiday cheer to your family gathering.

Whether adorning the dinner table as a centerpiece or gracing various corners of your home, they bring a vibrant and seasonal touch to your home.

For Thanksgiving, arrangements filled with rich, earthy tones and warm hues like deep oranges, reds and yellows capture the Dr. Vernetta Kosalka Florist of Omaha essence of the season. The incorporation of seasonal favorites like sunflowers, dahlias and autumnal foliage or greenery and berries can also add a nice touch to the atmosphere of the room.

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For Christmas, poinsettias, the quintessential holiday bloom, bring cheer and charm, while red roses infuse romance and elegance into the occasion. Holly and ivy are steeped in tradition, and evergreen branches bring a rich fragrance that many adore. These floral choices not only add visual appeal but also carry symbolic meanings that resonate with the holiday spirit, creating a memorable and visually stunning atmosphere for your festivities.

When choosing a florist for your holiday arrangements, look for a florist whose floral style aligns with your preferences. You’ll want to choose a florist who not only has the skills to fulfill your vision, but also shares your vision, making the process of selecting and arranging flowers an enjoyable and personalized experience. Our top recommendation is none other than the Florist of Omaha, led by Dr. Vernetta Kosalka, an acclaimed hospitality professional.

“When exploring the various flower arrangements possible, we strive to seamlessly blend your vision with reality,” Dr. Vernetta shared.

“Our team of dedicated artisans possess exceptional talent that continually evolves through the pursuit of innovative floral designs.”

Holiday Memories Holiday parties are a canvas for crafting moments that we carry with us throughout the year and our lives. In this digital age, photos serve as invaluable tools for encapsulating the very spirit of these gatherings, preserving those cherished memories for us to revisit and share for generations. Pictures capture the fleeting instances of joy, the echoes of laughter and the inside jokes that travel from one family Mitch Miller FotoFunSpot gathering to the next. Without pictures to capture the crazy holiday experience that no one fully remembers or can agree upon, it wouldn’t be the same.

“After the cookies have been eaten, the eggnog is gone and the party’s over, the one thing that will remain are the printed and digital photos that people take with them,” Shared Mitch Miller, Owner of FotoFunSpot. “We’ve been told many times over about families that have photos from past years and how they keep the photos on the fridge or in an album. People truly love the photos and the memories associated with them.”

YOU can put the THANKS in THANKSgiving!

Your gift this Holiday Season will help provide food and care for a hungry and homeless man, woman, or child and promote consumer choice in our Homeless Prevention Programs.

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Holiday Cheer #PrintProudDigitalSmart

FotoFunSpot has the perfect inventory of photo-capturing technologies to make your holiday gathering memorable and extremely fun.

FotoFunSpot provides premium attended and unattended photo booth services that can create entertaining, unique and memorable experiences where every single person in the photo, for every photo, can take a photo strip to remember the moment and share it with others who were unable to attend. Over the years, these holiday photos will become a cherished tradition that you’ll be glad you started.

Leave No Community Member Behind During the holiday season, it is especially important to embody the spirit of "leave no one behind." We can embody the holiday spirit of Thanksgiving and Christmas by extending invitations and performing acts of kindness to those who may be feeling lonely, are less fortunate or are facing hardships.

Whether it's inviting neighbors without plans to your festive gatherings, volunteering at local shelters and food banks or donating Dr. Candace L Gregory to charities that support those struggling Open Door Mission to make ends meet, let's ensure that no one is left out and that everyone can experience the warmth and togetherness these holidays represent.

Helping people in our community struggling to make ends meet during this holiday season is Open Door Mission. Their initiatives make a significant difference in the lives of those struggling during the holiday season. Their Turkey N Fixins Food Drive for Thanksgiving and Project Santa Toy Drive / Christmas Bells Drive for Christmas will provide families with food and gifts for the holidays. Without your help, though, Open Door Mission wouldn’t be able to help our community have a great holiday season. Dr. Candace L Gregory, President and CEO of Open Door Mission contributed, “I love being a Lydia House Baby Buddy and giving time back to our community.

Two hours a month makes an impact.”

To embody the spirit of giving, consider how changing how your holiday plans and routines can benefit the rest of our community. Let’s give back and get more people celebrating the holidays!

DECORATE: Adorn your home with holiday decorations such as lights, ornaments, wreaths and a beautifully decorated Christmas tree.

PLAY HOLIDAY MUSIC: Set the mood with a playlist of your favorite holiday songs and carols.

WATCH HOLIDAY MOVIES: Enjoy classic holiday films with your family and loved ones.

BAKING AND COOKING: Prepare and savor traditional holiday dishes, cookies and treats.

You can even have fun decorating them too!

DIY Crafts: Engage in holiday-themed arts and crafts, such as making pinecone turkeys and homemade ornaments or decorating stockings. #PrintProudDigitalSmart

Look and Feel Your Best Looking good for the holidays isn’t something to be overlooked. Not only does it boost self-confidence, reinforce a positive self-image and enhance social interactions during the season’s numerous events and gatherings, but also helps your skin, hands and feet feel better too. It allows you to create lasting, positive memories in the many photographs taken during this festive time, ensuring you feel your best and radiate joy throughout the holiday season.

Creative Hair Design Salon and Spa wants their customers to enjoy a tranquil, blissful holiday season while also taking care of their skin and overall well-being. The salon offers a haven of relaxation where you can escape the holiday hustle and bustle and indulge in rejuvenating treatments that pamper your body and rest your mind. According to Lisa Jensen, Salon Manager, “We believe that self-care is an essential part of the holiday festivities, and we are committed to helping you achieve that perfect balance between relaxation and radiance.”

For hands and feet, they offer deluxe manicures and pedicures that smooth rough, dry skin. For the body, Creative Hair Design offers massages and exfoliation treatments that not only relax you, but rejuvenate and revive your skin and mood. The salon also offers professional makeup, hair color and styling services if you want to look stunning without all the hassle of getting ready yourself! Plus, they have gift cards that make perfect stocking stuffers and gifts for your family – we all know they’ll be dying to try the self-care treatment you had!

The holiday season is best enjoyed when shared with friends, family and the supportive community around us. It's a time for creating cherished memories and spreading cheer. By patronizing local businesses, we not only find unique gifts and services, but also help our community thrive.

Supporting local businesses can make the holiday season even more special, as it strengthens the bonds of our community and ensures that we all have a reason to celebrate.

Don’t stress about the holidays this year Stay relaxed this holiday season and buy your gifts early. Maybe even buy yourself a little treat too.

Finding the perfect care package has never been easier. We offer a wide range of hair, skin, body, and nail services. Visit our site to learn more, or call today to book an appointment.

(402) 330-5660 | creativehairdesign.com 12025 Pacific St. Omaha, NE 68154

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Honor ALL WHO

SERVED

The willingness of America’s veterans to sacrifice for our country has earned them our lasting

gratitude.

V

eterans Day, originally known as Armistice Day, has its origins in the end of World War I. On November 11, 1918, an armistice was signed between the Allied powers and Germany, effectively ending World War I. The armistice went into effect on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, marking a significant moment of peace and the end of a devastating conflict.

In 1919, one year after the armistice, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as Armistice Day, with the intention of honoring the soldiers who had served in World War I. Armistice Day became an official holiday in the United States in 1938. However, after World War II and the Korean War, it became evident that a broader celebration was needed to honor Veterans from all U.S. military conflicts. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a bill officially changing Armistice Day to Veterans Day. Since then, Veterans Day has continued

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Strictly Business NOVEMBER 2023

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Two Men and a Truck (402) 597-6683 twomenandatruck.com/movers/ne/omaha

New Cassel Retirement Center (402) 393-2277 | newcassel.org

Industrial Escape Rooms

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Veterans Day | November 11, 2023 to be observed on November 11th each year. It is a day to pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of all American Veterans, living and deceased, who have bravely defended the nation in times of war and peace.

At Strictly Business, we believe it is not only important to honor the military men and women who have given their lives to defend our country, but also the Veterans who were able to return home. This Veterans Day, take the time to thank a Veteran in your life, whether they’re a business owner, family member, friend, co-worker, neighbor or even a stranger in uniform who you pass on the street. Please join us in extending our tremendous gratitude to these heroes among us, and do business with the businesses that make it a priority to support the past, present and future members of our military.

Join us in supporting the local businesses that support our Veterans! #PrintProudDigitalSmart

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A

t the end of the fiscal year, it is in your best interest to engage in strategic spending to optimize your financial position and tax liabilities. This often involves investing in necessary equipment, technology upgrades or infrastructure improvements that can be deducted as business expenses, thereby reducing taxable income.

Additionally, businesses may choose to reward employees with bonuses or offer end-of-year incentives to boost morale and retain talent.

However, it’s crucial for organizations to strike a balance between prudent spending and avoiding unnecessary expenditures, ensuring that each investment aligns with their long-term goals and complies with relevant tax regulations and reporting requirements. This end-of-year spending strategy can help businesses both manage their tax liability and position themselves for growth in the coming year.

So, how do you go about smart end of year business spending? First, you need to talk to the local professionals of Omaha to see what your options are, and which of those options are going to be best for your business.

Because Your Business Should Give you More Life!

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Strictly Business NOVEMBER 2023

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Strategic end-of-year business spending is the key to ending the year strong and optimizing your financial position for the year ahead.

Marketing Emphasis For your business to grow in 2024, people need to be aware that it exists. With so many advertising options available, first defining your objectives will help you decide how to best move forward with promotion, which you’ll continue to build upon as your business grows.

Looking back on 2023, what areas of marketing went well? What areas fell short? Did you effectively reach your target audience? If you have extra money to spend before 2024, why not set yourself up with a top-of-the-line marketing plan and budget?

End-of-year spending on marketing can be a strategic move for businesses looking to optimize their budgets and take advantage of seasonal opportunities. By assessing the performance of earlier marketing efforts, identifying areas that require additional investment and leveraging discounts and promotions from suppliers, companies can make the most of their marketing budgets. This approach not only helps meet budgetary requirements but also capitalizes on the holiday season and year-end sales, ultimately boosting brand visibility and revenue.

As a print, mail and marketing provider, Aradius Group can deliver your message to future customers nationwide to help you achieve your marketing goals. Whether you’re trying to grow in local areas or catch the attention of potential customers nationwide, Aradius Group has a marketing solution that will align with your business strategy and make your brand come to life! Their services include pre-press, digital printing, offset printing, envelope printing and bindery and finishing. For direct mail services, they offer mailing lists, campaign consulting, personalization, fulfillment and postage audit. Whatever your budget and marketing desires, they have you covered!

Be Bold – Finish the Year Strong and Get Ready for 2024 There aren’t many people that love change, but change is an integral part of the business world. Getting “Next Ready” is embracing what you can learn today to be positioned for what is next. As 2023 comes to a close, it is of utmost importance to consider what changes are needed to finish the year strong, ending the year on a good note to be positioned to then start 2024 off as best Linda Krei as possible. A business needs to keep itself ActionCOACH ExcelEdge updated with the latest developments and technologies within the industry, otherwise, it will become outdated.

Adapting to change is necessary and to implement the required steps to make change a success, you need to be bold!

As you reflect on 2023, ActionCOACH ExcelEdge suggests focusing on the positive aspects of the year, and on how one can learn from the negatives for a positive future. “Protecting time for self-reflection and personal discernment allows you the opportunity to stay aligned or #PrintProudDigitalSmart

get re-aligned with where your business needs to grow, and it allows you to discover any limiting beliefs or limited thinking that might be getting in the way of positive growth,” shared Firm Owner Linda Krei.

ActionCOACH ExcelEDGE provides an opportunity for that annual Re-Alignment, including the knowledge, systems and tools needed for significant improvements to your business. As a master global trainer and a master coach, they stay current with proven strategies and effective methods to address evolving needs through business education. Let them guide you in addressing your business challenges and growth strategies so that you can finish 2023 in a stronger position to start 2024 off right!

Smart end-of-year business spending begins with informed decisionmaking and collaboration with the local professionals in Omaha who can provide valuable insights and guidance. This proactive approach ensures that your year-end expenditures are strategic, helping your business thrive while also setting a strong foundation for the upcoming year.

CAN YOU IMAGINE: Colorless Store Shelves Blank T-shirts White Sheets in Magazines Print plays a significant role in our lives, and this significance also extends to incorporating print in your marketing strategy.

Simply combine both print and digital mediums to enhance customers’ experience, promote online traffic, and streamline your marketing efforts.

's

Let C

te!

ora

b olla

Justin Cox

Sales Manager 402-613-8218 jcox@aradiusgroup.com

www.aradiusgroup.com

NOVEMBER 2023 Strictly Business

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MADE OMAHA IN

CELEBRATING LOCALLY MADE, MANUFACTURED & GROWN PRODUCTS IN THE OMAHA COMMUNITY Strictly Business Magazine is preparing to run our

MADE IN OMAHA special feature in the December issue!

Inclusion in the feature involves a 150-word write-up about your business and the products you manufacture as well as your business logo!

Contact Strictly Business if your business qualifies

T O D AY !

402-466-3330 shae@strictlybusinessomaha.com

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Strictly Business NOVEMBER 2023

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