Strictly Business Omaha January 2017

STRICTLYBUSINESSOMAHA.COM

OMAHA • JANUARY 2017

• NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS • BUSINESS PLANNING • SUPPORTING NON-PROFITS Client Spotlight • NOW YOU KNOW FLEET MANAGEMENT

RIVER CITY SIX

In This Is-

OMAHA’S IT PARTNER Keeping Your Business Productive & Profitable

SUE BENNETT The Club at Indian Creek

MARY QUIROZ Heartland School

PATTY NUN Living in the Yellow

SHARON MARTIN MARCUS HELLWEGE MIKE JOHNSON Paychex Great Plains Epoxy Open Door Mission JANUARY 2017 Strictly Business 1

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We work with you to provide the right technology for your business. That type of service has earned us high marks from our customers. Get maximum Internet download speed options up to 10 Gigs, and choose from several voice solutions that scale as your business grows.

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CALL (402) 934 -3891 OR VISIT COXBUSINESS.COM TO SWITCH TODAY *Offer ends 4/30/2017. Available to new commercial subscribers (excluding government agencies and schools) in Cox service areas. $89.99/month includes Cox Business InternetSM 25 (max. 25/5 Mbps) and VoiceManagerSM Essential with unlimited local and nationwide long distance calling. Monthly service fee increases to $99.99 in months 7–36. Additional voice lines that are purchased at the introductory price will increase to $19.99 per line on month seven and revert to standard rates at the conclusion of the agreement. Prices based on 3-year service term. Early termination fees may apply. Prices exclude equipment, installation, taxes, and fees, unless indicated. Unlimited plan is limited to direct-dialed domestic calling and is not available for use with non-switched circuit calling, auto-dialers, call center applications and certain switching applications. DOCSIS® 3.0 modem may be required for optimal performance. Speeds not guaranteed; actual speeds may vary. See www.cox.com/internetdisclosures for complete Internet Service Disclosures. Phone modem provided by Cox, requires electricity, and has battery backup. Access to E911 may not be available during extended power outage or if modem is moved or inoperable. † Cox Business Visa® Prepaid Card available with qualifying new services ordered and activated between 1/2/2017 and 4/30/2017 with minimum 3-year contract. Customer must mention promotion code “reward promo” when placing their order to receive card. Account must remain active, be in good standing, and retain all services for a minimum of 30 days after install. Online redemption required following instructions to be mailed to customer after service activation. Online information to be submitted no later than 5/31/2017. Void where prohibited. Limit one Prepaid Card per customer; total not to exceed $200. Allow 6–8 weeks after redemption for delivery. Cards issued by MetaBank,® member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Cardholders are subject to terms and conditions of the card as set forth by the issuing bank. Card does not have cash access and can be used anywhere Visa debit cards are accepted within the U.S. only. Cards valid through expiration date shown on front of card. Valid in U.S., U.S. territories and Puerto Rico. Offer subject to modification or withdrawal at any time without notice. Other restrictions may apply. Cox received the highest numerical score among 7 providers evaluated in the very small businesses segment of the J.D. Power 2016 Business Wireline Satisfaction Study, based on 3,324 total responses, measuring customer perceptions of their current wireline provider, surveyed in April-June 2016. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com. © 2017 Cox Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Strictly Business JANUARY 2017

Managing Your Fleet Has

Never Been Easier A sister company of Now You Know Investigations, a locally owned and operated private investigation agency serving clients in the Omaha Metro area since 2002, Now You Know Fleet Management’s offerings help small and large businesses cut costs and run their fleets of transport more efficiently.

NYK Fleet Management’s cutting-edge GPS tracking tools and fleet management software not only helps clients save on fuel, but also increases employee productivity and enhances employee utilization. With our web-based software you can track your vehicles in a real-time environment and communicate with them on the go. Our mobile app lets you work outside the workplace and at your ease.

NYK Fleet Management offers an array of features to enable you to run an efficient and cost-effective fleet. This includes: Routing Management - Quick and easy with integration of Google Maps. You can create new routes with the ease of a few clicks, and save them for future. You can calculate the distance between travelling points and also create Geofences to track activities of your vehicles in a specific area.

Fuel Monitoring - Gone are the days when you had to manually keep a track of fuel consumption.

With Now You Know Fleet Management, fuel monitoring is automatic. Fuel consumption can be viewed in the Reports menu by generating reports or on our mobile apps. You can also set your devices to monitor Fuel Theft.

Real Time Monitoring - No matter where you are, you can now track and manage all your fleet.

You can download our smartphone app or log into our web app to check the status of your vehicles.

With Google Street View integration, you can also view the exact location of the vehicle. You can also set Geofences to receive notification when your vehicle reaches a certain location.

Excess Idling - Costs businesses money. It is bad for the vehicle, bad for the business, and bad for the environment. You can now get notifications if a vehicle idles for more than the specified limit. Excess Idling also appears in the reports so that you can manage driver behavior.

Driver Behavior - Now manageable with Harsh Driving notifications. You can get reports on Harsh Cornering, Harsh Braking, Harsh Acceleration and Speeding. You can set alerts for Speeding and also set penalties for Harsh Driving instances.

“How do we gain customers so readily?

Communication. We listen and we asked questions. We hear the answers and we create solutions. We utilize our customers’ feedback and ideas to constantly improve our business model.

Each member of the Now You Know Investigations and Now You Know Fleet Management team embraces a positive attitude that fosters the highest level of customer satisfaction.”

– Chad Harmening, Owner

With the help of NYK Fleet Management system, there are hundreds of tasks that you can perform with a few clicks, thus saving you a great amount of time. You can also receive daily and monthly reports on fuel, routing, driver stats, time, employee hours, GPS tracking, and much more. Our web-based apps are fully customizable and you can receive reports and alerts tailored to your requirements. Technical support is also readily available whenever you want!

A company founded on the principles of integrity, service, and quality, the Now You Know brand has a reputation for accuracy, customer service, and efficiency. NYK Fleet Management prides itself on building long-lasting partnerships. Through the combination of skills, experience and state-of-the-art technology, we will provide a level of service that is second to none.

We listen. We analyze. We solve.

We are your investigative and fleet management partner.

To schedule a free demo session or to find out more about Now You Know Fleet Management, call (402) 596-2880 or visit the company’s website at www.nykfleet.com.

JANUARY 2017 Strictly Business

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FOCUSING ON YOUR BRAND 2017 Content Marketing “Musts” Forecasting the trends in the wide world of marketing for the upcoming year is big right now, and we’ve no doubt been paying attention to the industry chatter.

Guided by insights offered by Joe Pulizzi, founder of the Content Marketing Institute, who has spent the last year amongst enterprise marketers from around the world and exposed to ongoing research on all things content marketing, we too are weighing in projections for the biggest trends of 2017: Creation of a Real Content Marketing Strategy You guessed it folks, in a world driven by instant accessibility to a wealth of knowledge and information, content that is unique, creative, educational, thought-provoking, useful, or masterfully all of the above plus some, is in high demand.

Pulizzi: “In almost every keynote speech I give, I ask the audience members if their organizations have a documented content marketing strategy. Sadly, most do not. Our research tells us that those organizations that do have one, and that review it consistently, are more likely to be successful. Even though you (the expert reading this) might think this is basic, it’s not. We are still too focused on campaigns and talking about our products, instead of truly driving value outside the products and services we offer.”

Professional Copywriting Think back to the last thing you read (or scanned at the very least) that was linked, directly or indirectly, to the promotion of a business. I’d bet with the utmost confidence that it happened within the last hour for most.

Written content can be repurposed in a wide variety of ways, and make no mistake, it has the potential to profoundly impact your target audience when done properly. From telling your story to delivering need-to-know information, this form of communication and it’s often untapped potential is not to be ignored by those whose goal is to build their brand.

You can leverage the power of your voice (by way of good copywriting)

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

to build credibility, promote engagement, shape perception, foster a deeper connection, deliver pertinent information, add value to your relationships…I really could go on and on, but I’m sure you get the point.

You’re not only achieving the goal of establishing yourself as a key resource, but you’re backing it up and driving your point home better than anything else out there.

Pulizzi: “Writing still counts, perhaps more than ever. More than not, marketers are abuzz about social media and video without comprehending that most of our communication is still text-and storybased. And frankly, most marketers are really bad at writing. From finding freelancers to becoming a better digital writer, we have more sessions dedicated to writing than ever (yes, even in this age of social media).”

Content Promotion So you’re generating more content…fantastic news! But how are you promoting it? If it doesn’t have legs, it’s stuck in place, and thus not able to fulfill its purpose. With the right vehicles for delivery, it’s put in front of the right people, in the right place, and at the right time.

Pulizzi: “Great content is one thing, but if you don’t build in a strategy that makes sense for a user experience or leverages technology in the right way, we are all doomed.”

To conclude our findings, we’ll again turn to Pulizzi, who makes a point that is probably quite familiar to you Strictly Business readers who have kept up with my monthly column. “One thing is for sure: Content creation and distribution in the enterprise, outside of the content about our products and services, has become both more important and more integrated over the past year.”

We’re confident based on our 20+ years spent in the business of promoting our clients through an effective content marketing tool that this will continue, and encourage you to get started!

(Source: Content Marketing Institute The Biggest Content Marketing Trends in 2017 contentmarketinginstitute.com/2016/08/content-marketing-trends)

To learn more about how Strictly Business can help you, contact me directly at (402) 466-3330 or visit StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com/connect.

(You can also click on our Staff Letter tab online to view past articles)

CONTENTS NEWS

4 Business 23 Personnel

27 Non-Profit 32 Health

SPOTLIGHTS

1 Client Spotlight: Now You Know Fleet Management 16 River City Six

ASK THE EXPERT 22 Berry Law Firm 40 Sandler Training

FEATURE STORIES 33 New Year’s Resolutions 36 Business Planning 41 Supporting Non-Profits 4

Strictly Business JANUARY 2017

Amanda

Tingleska

Holly

Jenna

PRODUCTION TEAM: Editor Amanda Wilson - Amanda@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Art Director Tingleska Hallum - Design@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Graphic Designer Holly Ryan - Creative@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com SALES TEAM: President/Sales Paige Zutavern - Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Executive Assistant Jenna Hubl - Office@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Accounting Shayne Zutavern - Shayne@Strictly-Business.com PHOTOGRAPHY: Cover Steve Kowalski, A Better Exposure Inc. - (402) 453-6000; www.abetterexposure.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

OMAHA’S IT PARTNER

Keeping Your Business Productive & Profitable OMAHA • JANUARY 2017

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The story of Five Nines started with two independent IT guys, working around the clock to service a few clients in Lincoln and Omaha.

After initially joining OMAHA’S IT PARTNER forces, they could have never imagined that the company would grow into the largest independently-owned IT Services Company in Nebraska, with 3 locations and 75+ employees, in just 10 short years. The story of Five Nines includes chapters about the learning curve that brought change, massive growth, and success. However, the one thing that has remained constant is the focus on the mission “To love what we do and be the best at it.”

A milestone that marks the company’s history of growth was the need for an Omaha branch. “In the fall of 2009, we officially opened our Omaha location. We were servicing clients in Omaha since the very beginning, and the need to have someone available within a few minutes was growing.

We knew Omaha was an incredible community to be part of, and we couldn’t wait to have a physical location there,” said Nick Bock, CEO and co-founder. “The first few months were interesting as we had only one official employee in the Omaha office. It was amazing to see the support we received from the Omaha community as we continued to grow organically ctive & Profitable

IN THIS ISSUE

• NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS • BUSINESS PLANNING • SUPPORTING NON-PROFITS CLIENT SPOTLIGHT EMENT • NOW YOU KNOW FLEET MANAG

RIVER CITY SIX

Keeping Your Business Produ

SUE BENNETT The Club at Indian Creek

SHARON MARTIN Paychex

MARY QUIROZ Heartland School

MARCUS HELLWEGE Great Plains Epoxy

PATTY NUN Living in the Yellow

MIKE JOHNSON Open Door Mission

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like we had done in Lincoln. The office has now grown into a close-knit group of 25+, who live out our mission every day,” said Bock.

Five Nines provides outsourced IT support for small to midsized businesses in Nebraska. With a model that is focused on providing high-level consulting, Five Nines provides each client with a Primary Engineer, Account Manager, and Support Team.

The Primary Engineer becomes a part of the client’s company, getting to know their team, goals, and technology. It gives the clients all of the benefits of having their own IT person.

Five Nines Account Managers work with clients to create technology budgets for 1, 3, and 5 years down the road.

The support team is made up of vCIOs who can advise clients from the c-level, a tier three team who is always working on high-level issues, the support desk which is available 24/7, and a project team who can help implement IT solutions to help clients be successful.

“We are committed to serving Nebraska and giving back to the communities that have given us so much. Technology will continue to change and evolve; the one thing that will remain constant at Five Nines is great people. Our focus at Five Nines will always be around providing the highest level of service and ensuring that clients are set up for success. We are excited to see what the next decade has in store,” said Bock.

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BUSINESS NEWS Essential Scentsations Opens, Hosts Ribbon Cutting E s s e n t i a l Scentsations is excited to a n n o u n c e t h ey are now open for business!

Located at 134 N Wa s h i n g t o n St. in the Bell Place Shoppes in downtown Papillion, an official ribbon cutting was held with the Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce on December 9th in celebration.

Essential Scentsations is a locally owned and operated business with a mission that’s all about providing safe, non-toxic solutions at affordable prices for your home. Owner Jacqueline Nelson believes that natural products shouldn’t have to be a luxury, but rather, affordable enough to be a part of our everyday lives. Essential Scentsations carries all-natural products such as candles, various room sprays, salves, balms, beeswax candles, baby products, and much more. All products available are made in house with all-natural ingredients, many of which are Nelson’s proprietary recipes.

For more information about Essential Scentsations, please contact Jacqueline Nelson at (402) 203-3765 or via email at essentialscentsationsbyjn@gmail.com. You can also visit the company’s website at www.essentialscentsations.com.

AMI Environmental Celebrates 30 Years Buildings are dangerous. Or at least they can be. That’s why AMI Environmental (AMI), was founded 30 years ago: to protect building occupants from facility-based environmental problems.

Asbestos Management, Inc. (AMI) was established in 1986 as one of the first asbestos consulting firms in the Midwest and instituted many of the procedures used in the environmental industry today.

Five years later, the company was renamed AMI Group, Inc., to reflect its expanded expertise in the ever-evolving environmental health, safety and industrial hygiene fields. Clairmont Engineering, Inc. was established as a sister company in 1994 when government contracting expanded the need for remediation of environmental risks at military healthcare facilities worldwide. The management teams of AMI Group, Inc. and Clairmont Engineering, Inc. were merged in 2000 to deliver integrated environmental consulting and remediation services under the brand name AMI Environmental.

AMI Environmental has since expanded its services and expertise to cover the full range of facility-related issues, from asbestos and lead to indoor air quality and mold to Legionellosis and infection prevention. After 30 years in business AMI Environmental is still leading the pack in solving facility-based environmental, health and safety problems—particularly in the healthcare and education fields.

AMI works with facility owners and managers to resolve issues that harm occupant health, helping them take the proper steps to make their buildings safe so they can protect themselves from a liability standpoint.

AMI (amienvironmental.com) is headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, with strategic partners located across the United States.

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BUSINESS NEWS Kansas City BBQ Now Open in Council Bluffs Kans as Ci ty BBQ is excited to announce they are open for business! In c e l eb ra t i o n , an official ribbon cutting was held on December 9th with the Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce. Located at 3515 Metro Drive in Council Bluffs, IA, a soft opening took also took place in October as its initial introduction to the community.

Kansas City BBQ is a KC-style BBQ restaurant. Slow smoked over hickory woods and then covered with a thick tomato and molassesbased BBQ sauce, it’s characterized by its use of a wide variety of meat--pork, beef, chicken and turkey--and an equally wide variety of methods of preparation. The locally owned and operated restaurant’s mission is to provide the best BBQ experience available, delivering fresh, homemade and high-quality BBQ fare and genuine hospitality with smoker-to-table service. Their signature BBQ sauce is made inhouse and all meats are treated with a blend of secret spices for an optimal taste profile. No MSG or artificial additives are used and gluten-free options are available. Come stop in today!

For more information, please visit www.kcbbqs.com or contact Henry Luo at (712) 256-1221 or via email at contact@KCBBQS.com.

No Coast Business Advisors Brings New Nationwide Business Development Program to Nebraska As a member of the North American Alliance of Business Brokers, No Coast Business Advisors has joined business brokerages nationwide in offering a new program: NAABB Marketing Academy. This program was launched in November of 2016 after undergoing research, development and testing over the past 5 years.

NAABB Marketing Academy was designed to help small businesses become more profitable, whether it’s with the goal of being better positioned to sell or to generate growth and more revenue. It is divided into two parts: getting a business to $100,000 annual profit, the benchmark where a business becomes much more attractive to buyers, and then on past that to the $1M milestone. This makes it a great fit for any business type and model.

The partnership between NAABB and No Coast Business Advisors, as a provider of this program to clients in Nebraska, allows participants access to a wealth of information and supplemental materials along with consulting services from a local professional. Offered at a flat monthly fee well below standard rates for consulting straight from a business brokerage, it’s the most cost-effective way to get your business on track to meet your goals. The program employs a quick-start approach to growing your business’s cash flow, and easy-to-follow steps for each week over the course of 12-24 months.

For more information, please contact Jethro Hopkins at (402) 2172833 or via email at ncbalincoln@gmail.com

FirstScan is your first line of defense in detecting possible prostate cancer - Non Invasively Early detection of prostate cancer saves lives. MRI scans and detects when a tumor is present or not.

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P&L Technology Named to Inc. 5000 List For the sixth consecutive year, Scantron’s P&L Technology division has been named to the Inc. Magazine 5000 list, which identifies the fastestgrowing companies in America. The comprehensive list includes America’s independent entrepreneurs and is based on the percentage of revenue growth comparing years 2013 to 2016. P&L Technology has grown 58 percent in that time.

P&L Technology is now a division of the Minnesota-based Scantron Corporation, working in conjunction with Scantron’s Harland Technology Services division. P&L Technology provides cost-effective solutions for businesses primarily in Omaha and Lincoln and is poised to expand services to regional and national based companies.

For more information about P&L Technology, please visit www. pltechnology.com. Lincoln office: (402) 742-0118 / Omaha office: (402) 330-9580.

Rexius Nutrition Bellevue Celebrates 1 Year R e x i u s Nutrition Bellevue, Omaha’s source for the best nutritional supplements on the market, is excited to announce they recently celebrated the one-year anniversary of the opening of their Bellevue location at 4005 Twin Creek Drive, Suite 104. In honor of officially opening their doors in November of 2015, an official ribbon cutting was held with the Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce on Friday, November 4th.

Rexius Nutrition strives to provide personalized care and service to help you reach your maximal potential. We continually strive to exceed your expectations in product quality and service.

Rexius Nutrition was founded on a love of nutrition and its power to change a person’s life. At Rexius Nutrition, you’ll find personalized care from a team of knowledgeable professionals who strive to exceed your expectations in both product quality and service. Their goal is to help you lead a healthy lifestyle and in turn, help you look, feel, and live the way you envision and reach your maximum potential.

Rexius Nutrition offers the competitive pricing of the internet with the true experience of a knowledgeable nutritional consultant in a brick and mortar retail store. Every Brand, Best Price, Exceptional Service!

For more information about Rexius Nutrition, please visit www. rexiusnutrition.com or contact Tim Rexius, Merrit Downey, or Nick Langer at (402) 934-3464 / email sales@rexiusnutrition.com.

JANUARY 2017 Strictly Business 7

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New Year, New Changes to Social Security, SSI Monthly Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits will see a slight increase in 2017.

Some other adjustments that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages. Based on that increase, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) will increase to $127,200 from $118,500. Of the estimated 173 million workers who will pay Social Security taxes in 2017, about 12 million will pay more because of the increase in the taxable maximum.

Thresholds for benefits will change slightly next year including the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA), SSI Federal Payment Standard, and SSI Student Exclusion.

Information about Medicare changes for 2017 are available at www.

Medicare.gov. For some beneficiaries, their Social Security increase may be partially or completely offset by increases in Medicare premiums.

The Social Security Act provides for how the Cost of Living Adjustment is calculated. To read more, please visit www.socialsecurity.gov/cola.

iFixOmaha Opens Fourth Location, Expands Services Best of Omaha 2017 smartphone repair winner iFixOmaha has opened its fourth location, offering more convenience to customers in the Metro area.

Located at 4273 S. 144th Street, it’s situated just south of Industrial, north of old L St., on the east side of 144th between Pinnacle Bank and Buffalo Wild Wings. Hours are 9-9 Monday - Friday, 10-9 on Saturday, and 12-4 on Sunday - this location can be contacted directly at (402) 454-7444.

Other locations are inside the UNO Bookstore in the Milo Bail Student Center, 76th & Cass and 72nd & 370 in Papillion For added customer convenience, iFixOmaha now offers On-TheSpot and Concierge repair service. Call (844) iFO-ToGo to schedule an appointment for on-site repair or pick-up of a device for later return delivery. The same competitive prices are offered with only an additional $35 convenience fee. iFixOmaha also continues to offer repair discounts for non-perishable food and diapers as part of their Hungry Every Day, year-round community giving program. iFixOmaha (iFixOmaha.com) repairs the latest smartphones, tablets, and laptops by top manufacturers including Apple, Samsung, and LG. In most cases repairs take 30 minutes or less, and all repairs come with a no-questions-asked, lifetime warranty on all parts and labor. iFixOmaha repairs the latest smartphones, tablets, and laptops by top manufacturers including Apple, Samsung, and LG. In most cases repairs take 30 minutes or less, and our repairs come with a no-questionsasked, lifetime, warranty on all parts and labor. www.iFixOmaha.com 8 Strictly Business JANUARY 2017

BUSINESS NEWS

A United Automatic Doors & Glass 2016 Fall Golf Classic Raises Over $15K for Open Door Mission A United Automatic Doors & Glass hosted its annual Golf Classic at Oak Hills Country Club on October 3rd, 2016, an event that raises funds to benefit Open Door Mission.

The event raised a total of $15,450, setting a new record for giving this year. The 2016 Fall Golf Classic event drew a record attendance as well.

Event director Michael Hannum and the Hannum family are humbled at how their partners from last year came back and new sponsors stepped up, along with the community, to make this event successful. A formal check presentation took place on December 14th at the Lydia House, where the owners Jim and TJ Hannum, sons Josh and Jake and event director Michael Hannum presented a check to Candace Gregory, CEO and Victoria Leuthold of the Open Door Mission.

The Hannum’s and A United also want to recognize the event partners, volunteers and contributors for the success of this year’s event with a special shout out to those who gave their time and resources to the event. Marquee Sponsors: Oak Hills Country Club, Sid Dillon Auto Group, Quality Glass and Mirror, Johnson Hardware, Golf USA, Centris Federal Credit Union, Pinnacle Bank, Johnson Hardware, Metro Credit Union, Alley Poyner Macchietto Architects, American National Bank, HAIBUA Marketing Group, Mary Rosenthal N.P. Dodge Realtors, Oh-K Fast Print, Makita USA, BEA Inc., Strictly Business Magazine. Also, kick-off speaker, Congressman Elect Don Bacon, keynote speaker Dr. Mark Christian, emcee Joe Herring, and Candace Gregory on KFAB radio station, who all made frequent announcements leading up to the event.

And a thank you to businesses that gave donations goes to: Stanley Access Technologies, The Market Basket, Golf Tec, Lauritzen Gardens, Big Fred’s Pizza, Aksarben Theatre and Dudley’s, Garden Café’, Flag Ship Brands of Restaurants, Omaha Community Playhouse, The Alley V Entertainment Center, Carl Jarl Safes and Gun Smiths, Jam’s Restaurants, Sunset Valley Country Club, Eagle Run Golf Course, Miracle Hills Golf Course, Stone Creek Golf Course, Tiburon Golf Course, Tregaron Golf Course, Hemple Sheet Metal, Crouch Recreation Equipment and Eric Crouch, Henry Doorly Zoo, Guns Unlimited, CHI Health Care, baseball donated by Hall of Famer Orel Hershiser, an autographed football donated by Hall of Fame Coach Bobbie Bowden, N.P. Dodge, Joslyn Art Museum, Scheel’s Sporting Goods, Schmidley’s Golf Range, men’s and women’s bicycles from Bike Masters, and The Bike Rack with a men’s and women’s bicycle for the hole in one competition. Also, to VIP Car Wash and Detailing, which gave a $19.99 car wash/detail voucher to every attendee.

Open Door Mission (www.opendoormission.org) is a Gospel Rescue Mission founded in 1954 committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness and poverty. Each day, Open Door Mission’s campus offers 816 safe, shelter beds to homeless men, women and children, serves over 2,000 hot, nutritious meals and provides preventive measures to more than 275 people living in poverty.

To find out more about this event or how to become an event partner or sponsor in 2017, please visit www.aunitedglass.com/golf-classic, call Mike Hannum at (402) 558-6500 or (402) 980-8625, or email golfclassic@aunitedglass.com.

A United Automatic Doors & Glass (www.aunitedglass.com) in Omaha, NE is a family-owned business with three generations of experience in glazing and commercial manual and automatic doors. The company’s 9,500 sq. ft. Office and Service Center is located at 1410 N. Saddle Creek Rd. in Omaha.

BUSINESS NEWS

Living in the Yellow Announces Next Basic Pistol Class for Women Patty Nun, an NRA Trained Pistol Instructor, has announced their next course being offered Saturday, March 11, 2017 in Lincoln, Nebraska for women who have little or no previous experience handling a pistol.

“More than ever, women are concerned for their safety. We all know there is no substitute for being prepared and aware of our surroundings to insure the safety of ourselves and our family members. That is the common theme of the training we do at Living in the Yellow,” says Nun. “This is a course for someone who has never held or fired a pistol and does not currently know the difference between a single-action or double-action revolver, or even between a revolver and a semi-automatic pistol. We provide a relaxed setting where women can learn in a safe environment with a trained, professional team that always have safety as the priority.” She adds, “This does not qualify as a concealed carry (CCW) course for women, but is a prerequisite, as we plan to offer a Living in the Yellow CCW course in 2017.”

To find out more information or to register, go to www.

LivingInTheYellow.org or call Patty Nun at (402) 432-6470.

2017 YP Summit Taking Shape, Tickets Now On Sale Tic kets for the 2017 Greater Omaha Chamber Young Professionals Summit, the largest young professionals event in the region, are now on sale. Be among the first 200 to buy – and receive “early bird pricing!”

Designed to connect, engage and inspire, this year’s gathering is set for Thursday, March 9, 2017 at CenturyLink Center Omaha. Award-winning journalist Ari Shapiro, host of NPR’s All Things Considered, will serve as a keynote speaker.

“This is the one event in Omaha that unites 1,500 YPs in one place and time to learn, collaborate and become informed about their community.

It’s a chance for attendees to discover their passions and challenge their way of thinking,” said Luke Hoffman, the Chamber’s Talent Manager.

The daylong Summit – with its three-prong focus on personal, professional and community development – is intended to empower and activate those in attendance. Keynote speaker Ari Shapiro will add to the energy of the day with his storytelling expertise, global perspective and call to action. Shapiro has reported from above the Arctic Circle and aboard Air Force One. He has covered wars in Iraq, Ukraine and Israel – and filed stories from five continents. In 2015, Shapiro joined Kelly McEvers, Audie Cornish and Robert Siegel as a weekday co-host of All Things Considered, NPR’s award-winning afternoon news magazine. Listenership has skyrocketed, since that time, to 13.3 million.

Tickets for the 2017 YP Summit can be purchased online at www. omahayp.org/summit. Cost is $125 early bird pricing (first 200 tickets sold); $150 regular price; and $65 student (Please email lhoffman@ omahachamber.org to purchase student tickets.)

The 2017 YP Summit is sponsored by: Creighton University Graduate School; HDR, Inc.; University of Nebraska Omaha Graduate Studies.

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Longtime Vail Valley Restauranteur Brian Nolan Welcomes Nebraska-Based Suleiman Holdings as New Partner Founded by Brian Nolan in 1995, Blue Moose Pizza was created to offer a family friendly atmosphere in the ski resort community.

After celebrating the 20th anniversary of Blue Moose Pizza last November, this year the GROUP970 team celebrates another major milestone, welcoming a new partner to the business.

Suleiman Holdings, a Nebraska-based private investment company with investments across a vast portfolio of businesses, joined the GROUP970 team this month. The transaction represents Suleiman Holdings’ first foray into Colorado, pushing the holding company’s national reach across three time zones.

“For us, the decision to join Brian, Sarah and the rest of their team was simple. Blue Moose Pizza is a family favorite in the Vail Valley and the GROUP970 team has decades of management and operations success that we look forward to building upon,” investor Mark Suleiman said.

Though ski resorts are a natural progression for Blue Moose Pizza, the partners are considering all options that offer a good fit for the family friendly pizzeria as well as additional expansion opportunities outside of the current concept. Nolan and Suleiman will continue to build on the cornerstones that have made GROUP970 brands what they are today - restaurants with great quality, an interactive and fun staff, memorable atmospheres and a commitment to community, in every location.

“We want to be a real part of every community our restaurants operate in” Suleiman said.

GROUP970 President, Sarah Franke, commented, “It is wonderful to pair with another company that understands the importance of our community to our business. We wouldn’t have celebrated 20 years in the Vail Valley if it weren’t for our great partners, supporters and guests. That isn’t lost on Suleiman Holdings.”

Together the new partners are ready to introduce more food, more drink and more adventure.

If you’d like more information about GROUP970 Restaurants, the Blue Moose or the new partnership, please contact Sarah Franke at (970) 845-1113 or sarah@group970.com. If you’d like more information about Suleiman Holdings please contact Kristen Vogler at (402) 8171181 or kristen@suleimanholdings.com.

JANUARY 2017 Strictly Business 9

BUSINESS NEWS Ervin & Smith Named Among Top 10 Best Places to Work by Advertising Age

RockOn Olde Towne Celebrates Grand Opening

Digital marketing agency Ervin & Smith has been honored as one of the 50 Best Places to Work in Advertising & Media by Advertising Age. This is the 33-year-old agency’s second time in three years to receive the exclusive recognition. The agency was among 50 companies from across the country selected based on survey criteria such as hiring practices, benefits packages, salaries, office perks, and workplace environment and design.

Roc kOn Olde Towne, located at 111 West Mission Avenue i n d ow n t ow n Bellevue, recently hosted an official grand opening honoring the debut of their first brick-and-mortar rock and mineral store. In celebration, an official ribbon-cutting ceremony was held with the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce on the afternoon of November 18th.

Ervin & Smith employees are rewarded with growth opportunities and competitive compensation and benefits. In addition, the agency’s unique culture is supported by a wide variety of “perks” and programs designed to make the agency a great place to work, such as unlimited vacation, vacation vouchers for a free vacation, a credentialed life coach, professional training, surprise celebrations, family outings, a pet-friendly work environment, wellness perks and more. To see the 2016 list of Ad Age’s Best Places to Work, visit adage.com/bestplacestowork2016.

Ervin & Smith keeps brands relevant and innovative, providing digitally-focused strategy and services that include: digital consulting, brand relevancy analysis, branding, social media marketing, content marketing, Web design, Web and mobile application development, SEO, public relations, integrated campaigns and more. The award-winning agency has been named to Inc.’s 5000 Fastest-Growing Privately Owned Businesses, voted one Advertising Age’s Best Place to Work and one of Omaha’s Best Places to Work by our employees. For more information, visit ervinandsmith.com.

Centris Federal Credit Union Expands With Addition of 12th Branch Centris opened its 12th branch location at 518 East Broadway in Council Bluffs in 2016. The local credit union hosted a grand opening celebration for the public following the completion of construction on the branch.

The full service branch office is approximately 3,000 square feet in size and features a three lane drive through and drive-up ATM. Ample parking is also a feature of the new location which sits on three parcels of land to the east of the 100 block of downtown Council Bluffs. Centris has been part of the Council Bluffs community since 2001 when it merged with Bluffs UP Federal Credit Union.

The new branch offers individual offices for more security and privacy to discuss the financial needs of Centris’ members. Also new for this branch is the use of a cash recycler, which eliminates teller cash drawers making the branch more secure, as well as a technology bar to show off Centris’ electronic delivery channels like mobile banking.

Centris worked with Holland Basham Architects to design a branch that is responsive to member needs, efficient and pleasant for employees, and complements the development efforts the Council Bluffs community has dedicated to this historic area of town. Meyers Carlisle Leapley Construction Company was the general contractor for the project.

Centris Federal Credit Union, founded over 80 years ago, is one of Nebraska’s largest community chartered credit unions. Centris serves Douglas, Sarpy, Lincoln and Pottawattamie counties and has 12 branches located in Omaha, Grand Island and North Platte, Nebraska and Council Bluffs, Iowa. Visit www.centrisfcu.org for more information.

10 Strictly Business JANUARY 2017

RockOn Olde Towne is a family/veteran owned small business featuring nature’s finest selection of rocks, minerals and mineral art. They offer a large selection of authentic geodes and fossils from all over the world: Amethyst, Quartz, Citrine, Fossils, Petrified Wood, Malachite, etc. that range from small $2 items all the way up large custom-made furniture specimens.

For more information, visit www.rockonoldetowne.com or contact John Bowling at (402) 881-0436 or by email at sales@ rockonoldetowne.com.

Werner Institute Celebrates 10 Years Creighton University’s Werner Institute recently celebrated its 10th anniversary!

Thanks to the vision of Gail Werner-Robertson and her family, and the support of many colleagues, community members, students and alumni, the Werner Institute is nationally recognized as a leader in conflict engagement and education.

As part of the 10-Year Anniversary events, Werner Institute had the privilege of hosting, in collaboration with the Creighton College of Nursing, Ms. Deb Gerardi, one of Werner’s founding faculty, Creighton alumna, and nationally-known health care conflict resolution expert. Deb led an interactive workshop sharing creative approaches to productively engage with interprofessional conflict in health care.

During the festivities, accomplished alumni who were nominated by their peers for their extraordinary work in the conflict field were also honored. Congratulations to the following individuals who were recognized at the 10-Year Anniversary Reception: Recognition of Outstanding Service to Community – alumni who have applied the theories and skills from the Werner Institute program in providing service to their community. Larry D. Oliver, MS’14 and Charles Thomas, MS’09.

Recognition of Masterful Conflict Engagement – alumni who are practitioners in the areas of mediation, facilitation, arbitration, negotiation, ombudsman, conflict coaching and other applied models. Gregory J. McQuade, MS’15 and Kathleen C. Kummer, MS’08.

Recognition of Dedication to Ignatian Values of Promoting Human Dignity – alumni who have applied the spirit of the Werner Institute program by meeting individuals where they are and by living in solidarity with others. James Hillis, MS’08 and Kelly Tadeo Orbik, MS’08.

To learn more about the Werner Institute, visit law.creighton.edu/ werner-institute or the official Facebook page.

BUSINESS NEWS Studio DIY Valley Celebrates Grand Opening Studio DIY Valley recently opened its doors to the public for three days during its grand opening, which was held November 10-12.

The newly remodeled craft store offered classes for patrons to create seasonal and home décor along with in-store specials and giveaways. The studio, located at 110 W Reichmuth Rd, is in the downtown Valley business district.

Those with a creative side and others who’d simply like to try their hand at a favorite Pinterest idea are encouraged to check out this new craft spot! This quaint shop provides a chic, country feel offering public and private craft making sessions, kid’s parties, and girl’s night out group activities. “We are excited to bring something new and exciting to the Valley area! There are a lot of people that cruise the Pinterest world and save project after project in hopes to ‘someday’ accomplish it. We are here to help with projects ready to go,” says Shelly Minette, manager and art expert at Studio DIY Valley.

Check out the new business’s Facebook page (StudioDIYValley) or call (402) 999-0852 for more information.

Sir Grout Targets Omaha for Expansion In a fragmented home services industry riddled with unprofessionalism and inefficiencies, a brand emerging as an unquestioned category leader announced plans to expand into Omaha on Dec. 9. The expansion intends to transform the way Omaha residents care for their most treasured surfaces, both at home and at work.

Sir Grout is ranked as a top franchise in Entrepreneur’s 2016 “Franchise 500®” list. On the list for the sixth year in a row, Sir Grout is the only company in the tile, grout and stone industry that made the rankings.

The concept appeals to professionals transitioning into business ownership who appreciate adhering to a collection of proven processes and systems that consistently deliver high quality results. Sir Grout’s business model leverages the brand’s proprietary service processes, exclusive product development and dynamic marketing programs to maximize its key marketplace differentiators. Franchisees within the Sir Grout system also take advantage of the knowledge and experience shared between owners – the multiplying effect of the expertise is invaluable. Fostering entrepreneurship with minimal overhead, Sir Grout franchisees primarily manage their employee base and day-to-day customer interaction. Plus, with the planning and assistance of the founders, franchisees are able to focus on consistently executing effective sales and marketing programs.

To learn more about Sir Grout franchise opportunities, visit franchise. sirgrout.com.

Omaha to Host Outland Trophy Award Dinner for 20th Consecutive Year Three finalists for the 71st Outland Trophy, which is awarded to the best interior lineman in college football on offense or defense, were named on Dec. 5 by the Football Writers Association of America: Ohio State center Pat Elflein, Washington State offensive guard Cody O’Connell and Alabama offensive tackle Cam Robinson. On Dec. 8, Cam Robinson was announced as the winner of the 2016 Outland Trophy during The Home Depot College Football Awards on ESPN, live from the National Football Foundation’s College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta.

For the 20th consecutive year, the presentation of the Outland Trophy will occur in Omaha, NE on Jan. 11, 2017 at a banquet sponsored by the Greater Omaha Sports Committee. At the same banquet, Oklahoma offensive lineman Greg Roberts, will receive an Outland Trophy. Roberts was the 1978 winner of the award before trophies were handed out by the FWAA. His Oklahoma coach, the legendary Barry Switzer, will receive the third annual Tom Osborne Legacy Award during the evening.

The Outland Trophy is a member of the National College Football Awards Association (NCFAA). The NCFAA encompasses the most prestigious awards in college football. The 22 awards boast about 700 years of tradition-selection excellence.

Registration Open for University of Nebraska 2017 Spring Career Fairs Registration for the University of Nebraska’s 2017 Spring Career Fairs is now available at: unl-csm.symplicity.com/events/springfairs17. Area business and organizations are invited to register for any combination of days, each with a different recruiting focus: Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources Career Fair - Thursday, February 16 – 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. - East Campus Union, Lincoln.

Business & Liberal Arts Career Fair - Wednesday, February 22 - 1-5 p.m. - Pinnacle Bank Arena, Lincoln.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) - Thursday, February 23 - 1-5 p.m. - Pinnacle Bank Arena, Lincoln.

Standard registration is $400 per day ($175 for government and nonprofit organizations). Electricity (as available) is an additional $50.

Other fees may apply as detailed in the registration form. Booth space is assigned based on registration date and space is limited so register early. Questions? Contact Andrea McClintic, andrea@unl.edu or (402) 472-8029.

HIP, OffiCenters: Office Space Available for 2017 Are you looking for office space or a virtual option to get your business a foothold in Lincoln, NE in 2017? Don’t want to worry about overhead costs? HIP, OffiCenters has the perfect option waiting for you!

HIP, OffiCenters has announced availability of virtual office space as well as physical office space in the Executive Office Suites located at 5000 Central Park Drive in Lincoln as of January 1, 2017. There’s a selection of virtual office packages being offered, along with the option to customize a package to meet your needs. Centrally located in a high traffic area, space in the Executive Office Suites also comes with a host of amenities: professional receptionist with personalized phone answering, an attractive receptionist area, all utilities paid, phone system, convenient on-site free parking, building directory listing, mail pick-up, janitorial services, complimentary coffee, conference room and break room facilities.

HIP, OffiCenters is a full-service company offering the tools needed to help a business grow and be successful, beginning with an ideal office environment that’s a productive, inviting and professional space to conduct business. The HIP, OffiCenters team puts a lot of value and importance on strong customer service for both tenants and their clients.

Please direct all inquiries about available office space to Lacey Torske or Kylee Dart at (402) 466-3932 or office@hiprealty.com. More information about HIP, OffiCenters can also be found online at www. hiprealty.com.

JANUARY 2017 Strictly Business 11

BUSINESS NEWS

SBA, FDIC Announce Enhanced “Money Smart for Small Business” Training Curriculum

Jet Capital Expands Service Area to Finance Small Businesses in Omaha Area

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) have announced enhancements to Money Smart for Small Business, a resource that provides practical guidance for starting and managing a small business.

Money Smart for Small Business, a free curriculum available on the SBA website, www.sba.gov, was jointly developed by the SBA and FDIC in 2012. The agencies expanded the program in response to feedback from the small business community.

Three new modules were added, focusing on managing cash flow, planning for a healthy business, and helping learners to determine if owning a business is a good fit, bringing the total number of modules to 13. The curriculum is available for download at no cost in both English and Spanish. In addition, a Train-the-Trainer curriculum was created to help organizations train instructors to deliver the modules.

The agencies also simplified the process to join the Money Smart Alliance, a group of nonprofit, government, and educational organizations that promotes and teaches Money Smart for Small Business. Organizations now can join the Alliance by completing a simple online form.

Training modules can be taught in any order or independently and typically run 60–90 minutes. Each module, and the Train-the-Trainer curriculum, includes a fully scripted instructor guide, participant workbook, and PowerPoint slides that can be edited to meet the needs of any audience. These features and flexibility make Money Smart for Small Business a valuable resource for entrepreneurs.

To learn about starting a business, begin with the Money Smart for Small Business resource designed to provide introductory-style training for new and aspiring entrepreneurs.

Jet Business Loans, LLC (dba Jet Capital), an online financial services provider, is expanding its small business funding solutions to include the Omaha, Neb. area.

Jet’s entry into the Omaha market is part of the latest phase of the small business capital provider’s nationwide roll-out. When completed, Jet Capital will be able to offer its small business funding solutions to businesses in Nebraska, as well as throughout the nation. Jet Capital currently offers 3 merchant cash advance products, each tailored to its customers’ unique business needs: Core MCA, Boost MCA, and PreFund MCA. “By expanding into the Omaha area with these innovative funding options, we are able to bring our nearly four decades of financial services expertise, together with our leading technology platform to tailor fast, no-hassle working capital solutions to Omaha’s small businesses,” said Kenneth Wardle, Jet Capital CEO. “We are finding that businesses universally recognize Jet Capital as an alternative to the time-consuming, often frustrating processes of conventional banks and other lenders.”

Jet is noted for its ability to offer qualified small businesses access to fast, flexible working capital in as little as 24 hours. Jet is able to compress the funding timeline because of its leading proprietary technology and analytics-driven platform, which can analyze and evaluate applications in minutes.

Jet currently offers cash advances up to $100,000. With a cash advance, Jet purchases a portion of the business’s future revenues at a discount to get the business owner access to the working capital they need to grow today. More information about Jet Capital and its products is available at www.JetCapital.com.

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Strictly Business JANUARY 2017

BUSINESS NEWS

Nebraska Title Acquires Barney Abstract, Title & Escrow

Electronic Engineering Hosts Ribbon Cutting, Open House

Nebraska Title Company is honored to announce the acquisition of Barney Abstract, Title & Escrow, Co, located in Kearney, NE. Nebraska Title Company, a leader in the title and settlement services industry, also has offices in Lincoln, Omaha, Papillion, Beatrice, Crete, Plattsmouth, David City, and Scottsbluff. Whether buying or selling real estate, clients can rely on Nebraska Title Company to make certain the title is sound and the closing runs smoothly. Nebraska Title Company looks forward to continuing to expand its operations statewide with a solid combination of leaders within the industry.

For more information about Nebraska Title Company, visit the website at www.nebtitleco.com. The Omaha office can be reached at (402) 861-9220.

Electronic Engineering hosted an open house and Council B l u f f s Chamber of Pictured: Mark Clark cuts the ribbon as Brian Miller displays the C o m m e r c e plaque presented to Electronic Engineering during the ceremony. ribboncutting ceremony on Nov. 30. Mark Clark, President of Electronic Engineering, was present for the event along with Brian Miller, Branch Manager, Council Bluffs Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors, and many members of the Chamber. Bob Mundt, President/CEO presented Brian Miller with a plaque, “Congratulating and thanking Electronic Engineering for their investment in Council Bluffs.” Appetizers and beverages were served along with a prize drawing taking place.

Electronic Engineering understands the power of staying connected.

Whether it’s on the job, at home or at play—they know how important that connection is to you. That’s why the locally owned and operated company has been successful in the communications industry for more than 70 years. The Omaha, Nebraska branch, located at 4891 F Street, has been serving the Omaha/Council Bluffs area for 25 years.

For more information, please contact Susie Blum at (402) 346-5123 or by email at sblum@connectingyou.com. Get in touch with Electronic Engineering today to learn more about Two-Way Solutions, Fleet Solutions and Security Solutions, and make sure to check out the company’s newly updated website at eengineering.com!

ExporTech™ Sessions Open to Local SMBs

ExporTech™ is returning to Nebraska! This nationally-recognized program is proven to help small and mid-sized businesses boost their exports.

ExporTech™ provides companies with a systematic process for entering or expanding in global markets and connects them with the best international business experts in the region. The fee-based program helps those enrolled develop a peer-reviewed export growth plan. Over a seven week period, a unique combination of innovative group sessions and individualized coaching is used to quickly enable participants to increase their exports. Companies have generated, on average between $500,000 and $700,000 in new or retained export sales, often within six months of completion.

The program, which begins February 23, 2017, is offered by the Nebraska Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), First National Bank of Omaha, Greater Omaha Chamber, Nebraska Business Development Center and the U.S. Commercial Service. All sessions will be hosted at the Greater Omaha Chamber in downtown Omaha.

Enrollment is limited to eight companies, with go-to-market financial assistance available to qualifying participants. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. on January 26th, 2017.

To learn more about Nebraska ExporTech™ or to request an application, contact Bob Walters, Nebraska MEP Industrial Liaison Officer at rwalters2@unl.edu / (402) 430-7678 or visit nemep.unl. edu/exportech-2017.

TS Prosperity Group Launches in Council Bluffs

TS Banking Group is pleased to announce the launch of TS Prosperity Group, a combination of fiduciary services and institutional investment management. The Trust division, which includes fiduciary services, has been part of TS Banking Group for 90 years. The institutional investment management team has been developed internally at TS Banking Group over the last 10 years, earning national recognition in performance.

TS Prosperity Group focuses on creating multi-generational prosperity for clients through planning, investment management and fiduciary care.

The ultimate mission of TS Prosperity Group is to manage risk for your greater reward.

In October 2016, TS Prosperity Group officially opened its doors at the newly constructed office at 43 Scott St., Council Bluffs, Iowa. This location is TS Prosperity Group’s headquarters, along with TS Bank’s third Council Bluffs location.

The TS Prosperity Group is led by Joshua M. Guttau, CEO; Kristi Waffle, COO; David Evans, Senior Fiduciary Officer, JD; Kevin Forristall, CFA, Chief Investment Officer; and Scott Simpson, TS REIS President. The team consists of fiduciary officers, prosperity planners, financial analysts, alternative asset managers and investment strategists. TS Prosperity Group has both the expertise and experience to help guide clients through each area of their prosperity plan.

To learn more about TS Prosperity Group, please visit tsprosperitygroup. com or call toll-free at (844) 487-3115.

JANUARY 2017 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS

EMPLOYERS® Expands Workers’ Comp Insurance Services Into Nebraska

Greater Omaha Chamber, Inclusive Communities Launch New Diversity Initiative

EMPLOYERS®, America’s small business insurance specialist®, is now underwriting workers’ compensation insurance policies in Nebraska, as well as Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York. With this strategic move, EMPLOYERS now provides workers’ compensation insurance to small businesses in 36 states, as well as the District of Columbia.

“Diversity is being invited to the party; inclusion is being asked to dance.” – Verna Meyers, Diversity and Inclusion Expert The ultimate goal – diversity and inclusion in every workplace and every community.

That’s why the Greater Omaha Chamber partnered with Inclusive Communities to create DIG (Diversity and Inclusion Groups), a brand-new initiative aimed at supporting and enhancing the growth of employee resource groups, diverse leadership and inclusive cultures.

Year-long and no cost, DIG allows employee resource groups (and aspiring ERGs) to: • Learn best diversity and inclusion practices • Gain valuable resources • Network and connect • Attend diversity trainings A DIG kickoff event will be held on January 25, 2017, from 3-4:30 p.m.

Join for snacks, drinks and good company as everyone gets together – to strive for inclusion. The event is free; please register online via the Greater Omaha Chamber website at www.omahachamber.org if you plan to attend.

For more information, please contact Alexis Bromley, Manager – Team Talent, at abromley@selecgreateromaha.com or (402) 233-7159.

EMPLOYERS’ workers’ compensation insurance products and services are targeted toward small businesses, such as: accountants and auditors, architects and engineers, attorneys, auto service centers, banks, beauty salons, clerical businesses, hotels, physicians, and retail stores.

Working with independent insurance agencies and strategic distribution partners, EMPLOYERS offers local market expertise and disciplined underwriting to target specific types of businesses and risks in order to provide policyholders with competitive rates.

Employers Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: EIG) is a holding company with subsidiaries that are specialty providers of workers’ compensation insurance and services focused on select small businesses engaged in low-to-medium hazard industries. Insurance is offered by Employers Insurance Company of Nevada, Employers Compensation Insurance Company, Employers Preferred Insurance Company and Employers Assurance Company, all rated A- (Excellent) by AM Best Company.

Not all insurers do business in all jurisdictions. Additional information can be found at www.employers.com. EMPLOYERS® and America’s small business insurance specialist® are registered trademarks of Employers Insurance Company of Nevada. A forward-looking statements disclaimer is an integral part of this website.

Huffman Engineering Becomes Wonderware Certified Integrator Huffman Engineering, Inc., a leader in control systems integration, recently announced that it has become a Wonderware certified system integrator partner. Huffman Engineering is the only Nebraskabased company recognized as a Wonderware system integrator partner by Schneider Electric Software.

“The System Integrator Partner certification gives customers confidence that our engineers are fully trained and can efficiently design a solution that works,” says Howard Huffman, president of Huffman Engineering. “It gives us a competitive edge in the marketplace because we have a demonstrated expertise that is validated by a third party.”

Huffman Engineering has completed several Wonderware projects in a variety of applications, including the utilities and food and beverage industries. The company also has had successful programs in such diverse industries as plastics & rubber, pharmaceuticals, mining and machine manufacturing.

The Wonderware certified system integrator partner status is achieved by having two or more employees trained in multiple Wonderware programs, and demonstrating proficiency through multiple successful implementations. Huffman Engineering has far exceeded the minimum certification requirements by having six trained employees covering five Wonderware products.

Wonderware certified system integrator partners are highly-skilled professionals who deliver expert industrial automation services using market-leading Wonderware software, and have third-party verification of numerous successful projects in a wide-range of technologies.

Huffman Engineering, Inc. (huffmaneng.com) has served the Midwest since 1987, specializing in pharmaceutical, life science, machine, and utility process control applications.

14 Strictly Business JANUARY 2017

NFIB: Small Business Optimism Soars PostElection Small business optimism remained flat leading up to Election Day and then rocketed higher as business owners expected much better conditions under new leadership in Washington, according to a special edition of the monthly NFIB Index of Small Business Optimism, released on Dec. 13.

The NFIB Index of Small Business Optimism is one of the oldest and most widely respected economic research reports in the country. It is a survey asking small business owners a battery of questions related to their expectations for the future and their plans to hire, build inventory, borrow, and expand.

The full November index, calculated as it is every month, improved 3.5 points to 98.4, which is just above the 42-year average and only the third time since 2007 that it has broken into above average territory. Plans to hire jumped five points from the previous month.

Expected higher sales rose from a net one percent in October to net 11 percent in November. But the blockbuster was expected better business conditions, which shot from a net -7 percent to 12.

The bifurcated data was even more dramatic. Job creation plans increased from a net nine percent through November 8th to a net 23 percent after the election. Expected higher sales rose 16 points, from a net four percent to a net 20 percent. Expected better business conditions, the biggest mover in the survey, rose from a net -6 percent to a net 38 percent, a massive 44-point spike.

Whether small businesses remain optimistic and lift the U.S. economy depends on whether the incoming Trump administration and congressional leaders follow through on their plans to reform the tax code, repeal regulations, and fix the broken health insurance system.

To view the entire Index of Small Business Optimism, please visit www. nfib.com/SBOI.

BUSINESS NEWS

Free Educational Series Targets Caregivers of Dementia Patients Registration is underway for a free educational series that will help caregivers understand how to provide the best possible care for their loved ones with dementia. “Learning to Live with Dementia” focuses on the various types of dementia and how to manage symptoms. The workshop will be held Saturday mornings from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on February 25 and March 25 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 330 W. Halleck in Papillion, Nebraska. Participants are asked to attend both sessions. Nancy Flaherty, MS, a certified dementia practitioner and president of Flaherty Senior Consulting, is presenter for the series. She has extensive experience working with family caregivers and facilitating caregiver groups. Monthly Solutions groups provide opportunities for caregivers who have completed the Learning to Live with Dementia series to discuss topics related to caregiving.

To register for the free workshop, call Nancy Flaherty at (402) 312-9324 or email her at flahertyconsulting@cox.net. Visit www. flahertyconsulting.net for more information.

Community Celebrates Omaha Labor Leader Terry Moore’s Record Term of Service Representatives of Omaha-area corporations, government, labor, nonprofit and civic organizations gathered on Dec. 16 to honor Terry Moore, president of the Omaha Federation of Labor AFL-CIO. Moore is now the longest-serving labor federation president in the United States – with 40 years of service in that role.

Michael Yanney, Chairman Emeritus of Burlington Capital Group LLC, was among those who noted Moore’s passion for the spirit and economic health of the entire metropolitan Omaha area. Other speakers included Bellevue University President Dr. Mary Hawkins and United Way of the Midlands President and CEO Shawna Forsberg. Matthew Placzek, the Omaha-based sculptor who created the riverfront labor monument, presented Moore with a bronze eagle statue in recognition of his community service.

Among his many civic roles, Terry Moore has served on the Metropolitan Entertainment and Convention Authority and Aksarben Future Trust. He was a member of the President’s Council at Creighton University and the Omaha Schools Foundation Board of Trustees. He established and continues to lead the annual “Septemberfest Salute to Labor” that celebrates the accomplishments of local working families, and raises funds for community service projects.

Through his service on the board of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, he holds the regional bank’s record for longest term of formal service by a non-employee. During that tenure representing the Omaha metropolitan area, Moore chaired the search committee for the new regional president.

Moore served three decades on United Way of the Midlands’ Board of Directors. He was instrumental in the establishment of Omaha’s first food bank, helped open one of the community’s first shelters for domestic abuse victims and was pivotal to siting The Salvation Army Kroc Center in South Omaha.

He received a Volunteer Action Award in 1985 from President Reagan for his role in Omaha’s first family shelter. In 1992, President George H.W. Bush recognized him with a Thousand Points of Light Award for his role in creation of the Potter House residence that serves families of medical transplant patients at UNMC. Event Sponsors: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska, Kiewit, Metropolitan Community College, Omaha Public Power District, Walter Scott, Union Pacific Railroad, University of Nebraska Medical Center and Michael Yanney.

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Nebraska Airbnb Hosts Earned $2.5 Million, Welcomed 22,000 People in 2016 Airbnb (airbnb.com), the world’s leading community-driven hospitality company, announced that its Nebraska host community earned a combined $2.5 million in supplemental income while welcoming approximately 22,000 people to the state in 2016. The guest arrivals to the Cornhusker State via Airbnb represents an astounding 120 percent year-over-year growth. This comes as Nebraska’s increasingly embrace the home sharing platform as an opportunity to earn supplemental income and make ends meet. Airbnb’s Nebraska host community grew 33 percent to 800 people in 2016. 49 percent of Nebraska’s Airbnb hosts simply rent out an extra room in their homes. And the fastest growing demographic nationally among Airbnb hosts are senior women.

Airbnb’s home sharing service first gained prominence in Nebraska in 2014 when Warren Buffett endorsed the company and encouraged travelers to use it after learning of Omaha hotels price gouging during the annual Berkshire Hathaway investors conference. The following is an overview of 2016 guest arrivals and total host income for the top five Nebraska cities: Omaha, 15,000, $1.85M; Lincoln, 2,500, $242K; Gretna, 510, $27K; Bellevue, 500, $38K; Murdock, 260, $14.5K.

South Omaha Trail Ribbon Cutting Marks Completion of Phase Two The City of O m a h a Pa r k s, Recreation and Public Property Department hosted a ribbon cutting for completing Phase Two of the 1.6 mile long South Omaha Trail extension on Nov. 10th. With completion of the second phase, the South Omaha Trail opens up a major east/west trail corridor allowing trail users to pass safely under or over major streets, a railroad and an interstate.

This 3.7 mile, 10 foot wide, concrete, multi-use, recreational trail is built on a former CN&W and Union Pacific rail line and connects the Keystone Trail at Karen Park on the west side of the city to the Field Club Trail at S. 35th and Vinton Streets on the east side of the city.

The ribbon cutting took place at the new trail head located at S. 42nd and “D” Streets (across the street from McDonalds).

Funding for Phase Two was made possible by the Papio Missouri River Natural Resources District.

For further questions, contact Dennis E. Bryers, FASLA, PLA with the City of Omaha Parks, Recreation, and Public Property at (402) 444-3798 or dennis.bryers@cityofomaha.org.

JANUARY 2017 Strictly Business 15

Colorado Destination

Colorado, the cool, beautiful, and laid-back sister state to Nebraska, welcomed us back with open arms on our recent travels, and we were without a doubt happy to return.

This time around, our President Paige Zutavern planned the trip in a unique way, combining a family vacation and a company retreat. The first part of the trip was spent with her husband and sons, and the second was spent with her team. It turned out perfectly, and we highly recommend this approach to other business owners who have precious free time to spare and can appreciate anything that involves making the most of it.

With the unseasonably warm weather that we’ve been experiencing across the Midwest, the absence of snow in December was indeed odd, but right on cue, a little bit graced us during our stay thank goodness! Despite the difference in surroundings, the natural splendor of the mountains was still as stunning as ever, and we had the opportunity to visit a lot of fantastic local venues during our stay in the Avon area and on to Denver. As many of us here in Nebraska enjoy making the journey to Colorado, and do so often, here are some of our recommendations based on our most recent adventures!

Nozawa Sushi | (970) 949-0330 | nozawas.com Nozawa Sushi has been a staple in the Vail Valley area since 2002. It’s the only sushi place we noticed in the area, making it a very popular spot as evidenced by the great crowd when we dined there. The presentation of the sushi, as well as their Asian entrees, is a thing of beauty alone. We found everything we ordered to be delicious as well. Our group was a mix between sushi lovers and newbies who had never tried it before, and everyone was pleased with what they ordered. The classic “sushi boat” is a great way to try a wide variety of sushi, and during their daily Happy Hour it’s a steal. As for the entrees, we ordered a good mix – Curry Shrimp, Broccoli Stir Fry, the salmon and chicken versions of their Teriyaki, and the Famous Sesame Chicken. All were on point.

Although the quality of the fare and the service are incredible, it’s not necessarily a fine dining establishment but rather a nice, casual place to grab a bite to eat.

Vail Sports | (970) 479-4415 | vailsports.com Our agenda for our first full day was, you guessed it, skiing! Vail is one of the best in the area, and completely lives up to the hype. The first order of business is always getting the gear, and we had a wonderful experience at Vail Sports. We visited the Arabelle location, and the customer service was incredible; they not only help you find the right sizes in everything, but taking a page from the old-fashioned courtesy handbook, they even take your boots on and off for you. There are also numerous locations to choose from depending on where you’re at on the mountain, which is quite convenient.

Speaking of boots, the gentleman who was helping us also gave us a great piece of advice that we’re passing on: Instead of walking from the rental office to the lift in the heavy boots, bring slip-on shoes that you can easily stash in your backpack. Problem solved!

Among the service we found great value in that are offered for free are the overnight storage of skis and baskets you can store your personal items while you’re skiing.

Vail Ski Resort | (970) 754-8245 | vail.com Hailed as the ultimate Colorado ski resort, we find it to be quite nice and always have a great time here.

Unfortunately our trip was at the beginning of the season, so with little to no snowfall at that point, there were only two of the 27 lifts open. That being said, it was the only disappointment we encountered as one that was completely out of their control. We still had fun and got in plenty of passes down the mountain.

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Again, our crowd was mixed with experts and novices, and because of this, we noticed what a fantastic place Vail is for beginners. The bunny slope presents a good challenge as far as the learning curve goes; it isn’t too intimidating but it’s not too mundane either. The gondolas will also bring you back down the mountain if you’re not comfortable with skiing it, which isn’t always the case. There’s also great variety with the more difficult slopes, so you really never get to the point where you’re bored of it. We’ll keep going back to Vail Ski Resort over and over, because it’s admittedly one of our favorites.

Blue Moose Pizza | (970) 845-8666 | locu.com It’s common to run into Nebraskans on travels across the United States (we’re everywhere!), but it seems like in Colorado there’s a lot more fellow Cornhuskers with whom we cross paths. This was the case again when we dined at Blue Moose Pizza, as one of its owners is a Nebraska native! You might actually recognize the name of this restaurant as it’s been one of our featured destinations in the past, and you’d better bet we’d been craving it ever since. The menu has great variety, with plenty of unique (and healthy) topping choices as well as offering their pizza whole or by the slice, which is a nice convenience. A local pizzeria with more of a restaurant & bar vibe, we found it to be an atmosphere we like a lot. It’s low-key, but still has that special feel to it, and the fare is as fresh as it is flavorful.

Copper Mountain Ski Resort | (970) 968-2318 | coppercolorado.com We also paid a visit to Copper Mountain Ski Resort, which is set up a little bit differently and has personality all its own. It’s charming and very tourist-friendly while also being frequented by many locals who love the sport, so there’s a level of speed and convenience that gets you right out onto the slopes without much further ado. In our experience, the rental process was very streamlined, which is appreciated by those who prefer a more self-guided approach. The steps are laid out and you’re directed through the process quickly and efficiently. Unfortunately we ran into the same challenge with the lack of snow, as there was only one lift open during out visit that we would have considered attempting given our collective skill level.

For someone completely new to skiing, the bunny slope here is rather unintimidating, but it’s a good starting point nonetheless. With the transition from the bunny slope to the blue being too severe for our group, we sadly weren’t able to enjoy the full experience, but we can say confidently that we’ll be back to give it another shot because we liked it so much.

One thing to note about Copper Mountain Ski Resort is the closeness between the shops and venues and the slopes – everything is right there. It’s a unique layout that takes a lot of the hassle out of the back and forth, and it adds a lot to the village-esque ambiance too.

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park | (970) 945-4228 | glenwoodcaverns.com Located atop Colorado’s gorgeous mountains in Glenwood Springs is Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. We jumped on the Iron Mountain Tramway and enjoyed a relaxing, scenic ride on the tram as it carried us up the mountain to the entrance of the park. Being one of the few visitors to the park that morning, we were able to explore and take full advantage of all the fun attractions. Our first stop was the Soaring Eagle Zip Ride; we soared 625 feet down with an incredible view and brisk mountain air blowing in our faces. Next, we stopped by the 4D

Motion Theater where we experienced a combination of thrill-ride and digital animation of the Extreme Rats Race movie. The special effects were a little too intense for us, with moving seats, gusts of air, and sprays of water. Next time, we’d leave this attraction to the kiddos. Being the largest show cave open to the public in Colorado, we knew we couldn’t pass up the cave tours. The guided tours each lasted about 40 minutes and both offered something a little different. The Historic Fairy Caves was a great place to start.

Our very knowledgeable and entertaining guide led us on a quarter-mile underground walk while educating us on the history, layout and geology of the cave. Between cave tours we strapped in our individual cars on the Alpine Coaster. We twisted and turned around curves and bumps of the 3,400-foot track while enjoying the Colorado scenery.

What makes this year-long coaster unique is the individual cars that allow you to control your own speed, so whether you’re looking for a rip-roaring ride or more of a slow and steady scenic view, you’re golden! We ended our day with the King’s Row Cave Tour.

This underground room located 150 feet below the surface proved to be the most highly decorated we’d seen. Staged light shows and black lights showed the cave’s beautiful formations that have been developing for millions of years. Spectacular! From the cave tours to the roller coasters; Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park has entertainment for all ages, which makes it a great stop for families! We can’t wait to go back to enjoy the seasonal rides and attractions.

Iron Mountains Hot Springs | (970) 945-4766 | ironmountainhotsprings.com After a long day at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park it was time for some relaxation at Iron Mountain Hot Springs.

This classy hot springs resort allowed us to rejuvenate in our choice of 16 different mineral-rich pools, ranging in temperature from 98 degrees to 108 degrees. Whether you just need a break from the hot springs or if you’re traveling as a family, Iron Mountain Hot Springs also offers a 75-foot-long family pool and whirlpool spa. We spent the morning riding rides and exploring the caves and then used the afternoon to soak in the soothing hot springs on the edge of the Colorado River. With both being located in Glenwood Springs it was a no brainer to get the combo pass so that we could do both!

Castle Peak Grille | (970) 748-4848 | castlepeakgrille.com After a full day’s itinerary, we were happy to find Castle Peak Grille to be a lovely, relaxing place for dinner that, as a bonus, was also festively decorated for the holidays. (The scenery also included a lot of Colorado Buffalo football fans, as our visit coincided with the conference championship, but luckily they were all nicer than their reputation based on the longtime rivalry in the past with our beloved Cornhuskers would have us believe!)

Our server greeted us warmly and was wonderful throughout our entire stay. We sampled a few of their signature “Amazing Cocktails,” and indeed they were, as each has a unique twist. The Jamaican Mule involved strawberry-infused rum and their version of a Blood Mary garnish was an assortment of pickled veggies that complemented the drink nicely.

The dinner menu offered a great selection, and there was also a list of featured dishes to choose from, so our only predicament involved making the final decision on what to order!

For appetizers, we chose the Crab and Arti Dip and the Mixed Fritti, which included fried shrimp, calamari, peppers, and onions. Delish! For the main event, based on awesome recommendations from our hosts, we selected the Shrimp Carbonera, Chicken Parmesan, Flat Iron Steak, and Lamb Gyro. We were impressed to say the least, and based on our very first experience dining here, would go back in a heartbeat.

The Crawford Hotel | (844) 432-9374 | thecrawfordhotel.com After our successful road trip to Denver from Beaver Creek we pulled up to The Crawford Hotel – Denver Union Station where we would be staying that evening. This historical station dates back to 1881. Located in the heart of downtown Denver, it combines Denver’s main transport hub with hotel accommodations.

Some of the building’s original features, such as the ornate iron staircases, high ceilings, brick walls and Victorian design, exuded the feel of luxury. The staff was exquisite and the perks were endless. We were given complimentary ice cream, coffee and beer at happy hour along with an espresso machine in our room and Voss water in the fridge. The three hotel floors overlooked The Great Hall at Denver Union Station, which made us feel right at home in the hustle and bustle of downtown Denver. We were in walking distance to anywhere we wanted to go or any place we wanted to see. It was an amazing experience and we would recommend The Crawford Hotel to anyone planning on visiting Denver.

Machete Tequila & Tacos | (720) 612-7698 | machetedenver.com To start our night in Denver we walked across the street from The Crawford Hotel – Denver Union Station to Machete Tequila & Tacos where we were greeted with friendly smiles and a welcoming vibe. There was a great crowd and seemed like the place to be for dinner. This fairly new Mexican restaurant offers handcrafted margaritas and street-inspired tacos.

They did not disappoint! Our group is not new to Mexican food; in fact it is one of our favorites, which means we have enjoyed a number of Mexican dishes in our day. At Machete we enjoyed beer, signature margaritas, tacos, quesadillas, guacamole, queso dip and one of the best chile relleno we have ever had!

The presentation was great and the service was amazing. We can’t wait to go back!

Comedy Works | (303) 595-3637 | www.comedyworks.com Located downtown in the very popular Larimer Square is Comedy Works. Shortly after entering the venue we were given a pouch to lock our phone in and carry with us until the show ended. This not only protects the acts from being recorded but also ensures you, as a viewer, enjoy the show to the fullest extent. We were seated up close and personal in the cozy basement theatre, although there didn’t seem to be a bad seat in the house. The wait staff took food and drink orders and delivered them throughout the show, so you didn’t even have to get up. There was an emcee, two opening acts and then the main performance by the one and only Matt Iseman, better known as host of the Emmy-nominated show American Ninja Warrior. Each comedian brought their own unique style and sense of humor to the stage, one of which referenced North Platte, Nebraska, which made us feel right at home!

Needless to say, this trip was one to remember and set the bar high for our return to Colorado. In fact, it will likely become something that we do seasonally every year from here on out as we’re also hoping to experience what this area has to offer in the spring. Stay tuned for more of our Rocky Mountain adventures, and if as fate would have it you’ll be travelling to Colorado in the near future, consider all of these destinations Strictly Business approved and recommended!

JANUARY 2017 Strictly Business

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WHATEVER YOUR PERFECT BUILDING IS,

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THE CLUB AT INDIAN CREEK The Club at Indian Creek is the banquet facility at Indian Creek Golf Course in Elkhorn, NE. Sue Bennett serves as the Banquet Director for The Club at Indian Creek.

Tell us a little about your business. - The Club at Indian Creek is a local venue available to the public for hosting special events such as weddings, reunions, birthday parties, fundraisers, golf banquets and business meetings. With capacity at 400 guests, we are one of the largest in this area.

Call today for more info! 402-937-5937 3800 North 27th St Lincoln, Nebraska 68521 www.TalonSteel.com | dk.talonsteel@gmail.com

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How did you get started in the business? - I started at The Club at Indian Creek as a part-time event coordinator in 2011 and worked primarily weekends and evenings overseeing scheduled events. I’d recently re-entered the workforce after staying at home to raise my two children, who are now 17 and 20 years old. During that time I had volunteered for numerous non-profit organizations including the Stephen Center Guild in Omaha and helped with planning fundraising events. In 2012 I was promoted to my current full-time position. It’s the perfect fit for me as I have a passion for event planning - I love working with prospective clients to help them choose the perfect venue for their event and then to plan and implement their vision.

Tell us a little about your family. - My daughter, Brooke, is a junior at Northwest Missouri State University and my son, Jason, is a junior at Elkhorn High School.

I grew up in Friend, NE and attended Nebraska Wesleyan University in Lincoln, after which I lived in Omaha; Overland Park, KS; Alpharetta, GA (for approximately 11 years); and Chagrin Falls, OH before returning to Nebraska in 2008 to be closer to family. I am happy to call Nebraska my home again.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I enjoy being outside, so when the weather is good I like to go for a walk either in my neighborhood or at Standing Bear or Zorinsky Lake. In winter I love having a fire going in the fireplace and watching movies at home.

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

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I am passionate about Team in Training for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. My cousin in Kansas City introduced me to the program after my mother died of complications from Multiple Myeloma – a type of blood cancer. Since then I’ve raised funds for LLS and completed two half-iron triathlons and a full marathon with the support of Team in Training. Through this organization I’ve made countless friends who share this same passion, I’ve raised thousands of dollars for LLS, and I’ve learned that I can accomplish anything with the support of family and friends!

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I don’t have a favorite book, but my favorite genre is historical fiction.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - I enjoy many area restaurants including Boyd & Charlies BBQ and Bella Vita Ristorante in Elkhorn; Red’s Savoy Pizza, Brix and Kona at Village Point; and Blue Sushi Sake Grill.

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

- Please contact me for more information about The Club at Indian Creek and/or share my information with anyone you know who is planning a wedding or special event. I can be reached by phone at (402) 289-0900 Ext. 20 or by email at sue@theclubatindiancreek. com. You may also visit our website at www.theclubatindiancreek.com.

MARY Mary Quiroz

HEARTLAND SCHOOL Located at 731 South 108th Street in Omaha, Heartland School is a private, non-profit, Level III school serving verified emotionally-disturbed students from Omaha and Eastern Nebraska area schools. Mary Quiroz is the Principal and Director of the Heartland School.

Tell us a little about your business. - Heartland School provides a chance for struggling students to start fresh and develop the skills and insights necessary to overcome challenges and experience new opportunities. Students placed at Heartland School have shown over time that their behaviors were too severe and frequent to remain in their home school. The long-term goal is returning students to their home school so that they can earn their high school diplomas.

How did you get started in the business? - I was offered a position to teach at another area school almost 30 years ago. I originally had the intention to teach high school history. Despite not having a lot of training or education in special education, I agreed to take the position that was offered. Over the next 5 years I learned a lot and grew to love working with kids with special needs. I have been doing it every day since and never looked back.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Prior to my current position, I had been the principal at Uta Halee and Cooper Village Schools. After 17 years I learned that our programs had been cut and we had to close. Myself, my staff, and my coworkers were out of our jobs and we had to close a program into which many of us put our heart and soul.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Coming to Heartland School and leading a team that has turned a failing program around into a viable school again. I am very proud of the work that has been done over the last 5 years and the kids that we have been able to help.

Tell us a little about your family. - I come from a small town in Iowa.

I was raised in a home that valued hard work and honest people.

I have two brothers and my mother is still living. We lost my dad a couple of years ago and none of us have really recovered. We miss him terribly.

1st place twelve straight years!

I am married to a retired Air Force man, now for 27 years. We have a 25-year-old daughter who has been the most wonderful gift; it’s a joyous experience to be her mom. She is an award-winning artist, having graduated from UNO several years ago. She has her own studio at the Hot Shops Art Center; it’s called Pink Pigeon Studio.

She is married to a wonderful young man who is studying to be a psychiatrist. I also have a grandpig; sweet, delightful Wilbur is their baby.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - About 5-6 years into my career I realized what a huge need there is for the work that we do and the extent of its importance. It struck me hard to see how many kids struggle with school and what an impact that can have on the rest of their lives.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Absolutely nothing.

I love when I can just take the day as it comes.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Always follow your instincts. Trust your gut, it will never steer you in the wrong direction.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Phone: (402) 393-0345; Email: maryquiroz2012@gmail.com.

402.558.3500 402.502.8757 402.502.5511 402.933.9400 Corner of SW Corner of SW Corner of Corner of 50th & South 144th & 120th & Maple Washington & Saddlecreek Industrial Rd Lincoln; Papillion

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www.dingmans.com JANUARY 2017 Strictly Business

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PATTY Patty Nun

LIVING IN THE YELLOW

“Our Commitment to Our Community”

DOUGLAS COUNTY health center

Call today: 402-444-7000

4102 Woolworth Ave, Omaha Quality of Care Five Star Rating Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services 20

Strictly Business JANUARY 2017

Patty Nun is the founder of Living in the Yellow, a local resource focused on teaching key principles of self-defense and personal safety.

Tell us a little about your business. - There is no substitute for being prepared and aware of our surroundings to ensure the safety of ourselves and our loved ones. That is the common theme of training we do at Living in the Yellow. We take our name from Cooper’s Four Color Codes (white, yellow, orange and red) for Self Defense Awareness. Yellow is the color representing those who are relaxed, but alert and aware of their surroundings. We currently offer classes for women who are interested in learning about the basics of operating, owning and safely using a pistol. At the end of the day, we go to the range where our team of professionally trained Range Safety Officers mentor and instruct each lady in firing a pistol. Many of the ladies come to class having never fired a pistol, and leave with a new skill and level of confidence.

How did you get started in this business? - When I learned of the Aurora, CO movie theater shooting in July of 2012, I was heartbroken.

I wrestled with my emotions for a couple of weeks, and finally talked to my pastor, Brad Brestel, to help me sort through the anxiety I was feeling. He encouraged me to talk to the head of security at my church, Cody Blocker, who educated and mentored me on the privilege we have in the United States to be responsible gun owners.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - My training has been primarily through the NRA, whose major purpose is to “promote public safety, law and order, and train citizens in the safe handling of firearms.” Not everyone in our community appreciates the NRA or the privilege we have based on the Second Amendment.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- I am a licensed professional counselor and had an opportunity to spend a month in India this year training over 250 indigenous pastors.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband, Dennis, and I have been married 43 years and have six children (ages 23 to 34). They live and work in Lincoln, Chicago, Phoenix, Huntsville and Honduras.

We have four grandchildren, with more on the way!

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - On June 25, 1978 I accepted Jesus Christ as my Savior. Since that date, I have focused on investing in things that last for eternity.

What are the most unique or interesting things about you that most people probably don’t know? - I can twirl a fire baton, was Mrs. Nebraska International 1988, and have written two books: The Bathsheba Legacy and In Spite Of It All. What are you the most proud of? - My children, their spouses and families.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - The Serenity Prayer.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I am a John Grisham legal thriller junkie. The Street Lawyer is my favorite book.

What is your favorite movie? - The Sound of Music. A few years ago we traveled to Vienna, Austria and saw sites where some of the scenes were filmed.

What local non-profit organizations are you passionate about? Kingdom’s Harvest International, Rancho El Refugio Mexico Outreach, Campus Life, and Lincoln Christian School.

If any of our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Phone: (402) 432-6470; Email: pattynun.whcc@gmail.com; Website: livingintheyellow.org.

SHARON Sharon Martin PAYCHEX

Sharon Martin is the District Manager of Paychex, the leading small business payroll provider in the area for over 40 years.

Tell us a little about your business. - We help local business owners stay focused on growing their businesses by helping them streamline administrative processes, including payroll, timekeeping, tax filings, benefits management and HR support.

How did you get started in the business? - I owned three businesses and was drowning in paperwork when I found Paychex and became a client. After a few years as a client, I sold my last business and was looking for my next professional passion. So, since I had always promoted Paychex to fellow business owners and praised how much help I had received, I decided to join Team Paychex…and just started my 7th year with the company.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Buying, growing and selling three businesses while achieving all my goals during that time. We had lofty goals; we wanted to double revenues annually and eventually sell the businesses for significant profits.

Keeping three different businesses running and on target to achieve those objectives was extremely rewarding.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband and I are celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary next summer. We have six amazing kids that we are super proud of and feel very blessed to be a part of such close knit community.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? For me, it was buying my first business. This was the first time I really felt free. There were no rules, no limits, no boundaries other than my own ambition and imagination. This was a very liberating and frightening experience. Having walked this path has allowed me to become an excellent partner to other local business owners forging their own paths.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Go on a walk or bike ride, tend the garden and travel.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - Before my middle school growth spurt, I was a gymnast. I got booted off the team for being too tall!

What are you the most proud of? - My children. They are all warm, caring and good-hearted people whom I am proud to put into the world.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - My grandfather gave me a few pieces of really good advice that have stuck with me over the years, especially: “Take care of yourself, no one else can.”

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

Which talent would you most like to have? - I wish I could sing. I love music, but cannot participate in public…it’s just awful!

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I have been involved with the Salvation Army over the years. I believe strongly in their concept of a hand up, not a hand out. I appreciate the life and job skills training that the Salvation Army provides in addition to all their emergency services.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Brother Sebastian’s Steak House & Winery.

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

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - I can be reached on my cell (402) 214-2286, via email smartin6@paychex. com, or through my company website www.paychex.com.

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JANUARY 2017 Strictly Business

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MARCUS Marcus Hellwege

GREAT PLAINS EPOXY Great Plains Epoxy offers flake, mica, industrial and metallic epoxy flooring for commercial and residential properties. Marcus Hellwege is the owner of Great Plains Epoxy.

Tell us a little about your business. - We offer a type of flooring that has interesting color, non-slip textures, easy maintenance, is allergy friendly, and has vapor-resistant qualities. We offer reasonable prices for residential garages, man caves and basements. Commercially, we offer a clean, germ-free product for warehouses, factories, medical offices, food and beverage plants, laboratories and attractive business fronts. Epoxy flooring is a great solution for a durable and easy to clean floor, and we’ve had a lot of interest in the Omaha Metro and Lincoln markets.

How did you get started in the business? - I’ve installed similar products outdoors for the past 12 years. I first installed German resins for outdoor aggregates in patios. Then I installed pool decks, patios and play areas using another resin called porous pave. Over time we found an interest in garage floor coatings and gravitated more towards that specialty area. After research, hands on learning, working with chemists and training, we launched our epoxy flooring division.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Epoxy flooring products have been evolving recently and new products are coming out. From the US coasts to around the world, epoxy is used on floors, airplanes, cars, strengthening products and space shuttles. We are always learning about different techniques and uses.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? Making the transition from landscape architect to a professional epoxy flooring installer. Great Plains Landscaping and Design and Great Plains Epoxy still function as sister companies, but my focus has naturally turned more towards the latter. I have designed a landscape for the ABC Home Extreme Makeover in Lincoln, NE and worked for famous athletes, coaches and comedians. However, I consider my greatest achievements to have been working with great clients to create spaces they can enjoy with family and friends.

Tell us a little about your family. - I am getting married to Jessica, my fiancée, this spring. I have two stepsons, Hunter and Bailey. Jessica is passionate in her career as a hospice caregiver; she is currently opening agencies in the region for Avalon Hospice as the director.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love to spend time with my family and travel.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I blew up roadside bombs in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2004-2005.

What are you the most proud of? - My soon-to-be wife and kids. It has been amazing to see my sons grow into great young men.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Have the courage to live a life true to yourself, not the life others expect of you.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? – Wrestling; I’m currently a coach at Lincoln Southwest High School.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – The Bible.

What is your favorite movie? - Die Hard.

What is your favorite TV show? - Friends.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Texas Roadhouse (If you happen to be dining at the Lincoln restaurant say “Hi” to my stepson Hunter who works there!).

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

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

- Phone: (402) 417-6906; Website: www.greatplainsepoxy.com; Facebook: Great Plains Epoxy.

22

Strictly Business JANUARY 2017

MIKE

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OPEN DOOR MISSION Open Door Mission is a Gospel Rescue Mission founded in 1954 committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness and poverty. Each day, Open Door Mission’s campus offers 816 safe, shelter beds to homeless men, women and children, serves over 2,000 hot, nutritious meals and provides preventive measures to more than 275 people living in poverty. Mike Johnson is Open Door Mission’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

How did you get started in the organization? - I was looking for something that would match my skill set with the opportunity to help others in a meaningful way. Most opportunities required a move to one of the coasts.

After praying for several months, an opportunity at Open Door Mission appeared on a job board.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Having to lay people off. In the corporate world, profits are what matter and some companies sacrifice talented, good people to meet a number.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I sat for and passed the CPA examination on my first try after being out of college for eight years. This opened some doors for me to progress to where I am now.

Tell us a little about your family. - I am married with three daughters. All three live in Omaha; two are married. We currently have three wonderful grandchildren.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? Following Jesus Christ wholeheartedly requires many sacrifices and faith to trust completely in God’s provision. Stepping into full-time ministry at Open Door Mission is the current step of faith in which I am engaged.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Being outside, hiking, kayaking, and playing with the grandkids.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I enjoy cooking and make really good runzas.

What are you the most proud of? - Our team at Open Door Mission. I know firsthand the sacrifices people go through to work here. They selflessly give of their time, talent and treasure to help those who need help and direction in this world.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Never quit; do the best you can. Only when you quit do you really fail. Everything else is a learning experience.

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

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Forest ranger or trail guide. I love our national parks and the wilderness in general.

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I love sharing the Word of God with men going through our programs at Open Door Mission. I love to see their hearts come alive and their lives begin to change into something new.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - Good Faith: Being a Christian When Society Thinks You’re Irrelevant and Extreme

by David Kinnaman and Gabe Lyons.

What is your favorite movie? - The Last of the Mohicans or The Patriot.

What is your favorite TV show? - Currently it’s The Selection. Those in our Armed Forces deserve all our thanks for the sacrifices they make for our country.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - I enjoy Bonefish Grill for dine in, and for pizza it’s La Casa Pizzaria.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Via email at mjohnson@opendoormission.org or visit our website at www. opendoormission.org.

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CALL FOR AN INITIAL CONSULTATION 402-466-8444 www.JSBerryLaw.com

JOHN S. BERRY JR.

John S. Berry of Berry Law Firm: “Fighting for a Better Future for Clients” This is an excerpt from a recent interview published by Lawyernomics, by Avvo on November 11, 2016 entitled “Lawyernomics Modern JD Spotlight: John S. Berry.” The Modern JD spotlight series highlights attorneys who come from different practice areas across the country but have one thing in common: they have evolved with the times to meet the needs of their clients and practice.

What is your area of practice and why did you decide to get into it? Berry Law Firm has three practice areas, veterans’ disability benefits, criminal defense, and personal injury. My father is a Vietnam veteran and a well-known trial attorney. In the 1970s and ‘80s, he represented many veterans charged with violent crimes, DUIs, and other matters. At that time, he saw a link between veterans’ military service and some of the difficulties they were having adjusting back into society. While my father was assisting these veterans with other legal matters, he began to represent some of them pro bono when they were denied VA disability benefits. Since that time, the law pertaining to a veterans’ ability to hire an attorney to represent him on appeal has changed for the better. This allows us to represent veterans for pay after their applications for benefits have been denied. I was inspired by my father to get into this practice and as a veteran myself, I have enjoyed representing my heroes in their fight to obtain VA disability benefits. I’ve served in both the active Army and the National Guard and have been deployed to Iraq and Bosnia. I know what a lot of veterans are going through and I appreciate the opportunity to help them fight for the benefits they’ve earned.

How do you think your practice is unique compared to others? What is your firm’s secret to success? Our veterans’ law practice is unique for several reasons.

First, several of our attorneys and staff have been through the VA disability system, and we understand how the VA operates firsthand. Second, we are veterans ourselves and understand the struggles they have been through.

Finally, most VA law attorneys are administrative lawyers. Our background is in trial law. My belief is that trial lawyers have a different attitude and a different approach to preparing arguments than those who solely practice administrative law.

How do you use your personality or brand in creative ways to connect with clients? My father was great at using his personality to connect with clients.

Since our veterans’ disability practice is national, we represent veterans in all states and territories and now connect through different means. A large number of our clients come from referrals from other satisfied veterans.

However, because a large number of veterans are not aware they can retain attorneys to represent them on their VA appeals, we have used video for outreach and education. Crisp Video group put together a good brand video with several FAQ videos that have helped us to reach out to veterans on a national level with Facebook, Youtube, and our website PTSDlawyers.com.

Where do you find inspiration professionally and/or personally? Veterans are the heroes of our nation. There’s also an interesting parallel between the representation of our veterans and our civil and trial practice. As an Army officer, I took an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. Our trial practice section lives by the same oath. Attorneys also take oaths to support and defend the Constitution. Having the responsibility of supporting the Constitution of the United States and fighting for a better future for my client is inspirational and motivating.

The complete version can be viewed online at: lawyernomics.avvo.com/ modern-jd/lawyernomics-modern-jd-spotlight-john-berry.html.

LINCOLN OFFICE: 2650 North 48th Street Lincoln, NE 68504

OMAHA OFFICE: 108 North 49th St., Suite 210 Omaha, NE 68132

PERSONNEL NEWS Nebraska Sports Council Officers, Board Members Elected

Daniel Griess Chosen to Lead Facility Systems and Ancillary Services at Madonna

The Nebraska Sports Council (NSC) Board of Directors elected Jeff Maul as its 15th President at the NSC annual meeting held on Oct. 20, 2016.

Daniel Griess, MHA, FACHE, has been named vice president of Facility Systems and Ancillary Services of Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals (www.madonna.com).

He began his duties Aug. 15, 2016 and is based at the Omaha Campus. In Griess’ dual role, he is responsible for the leadership, organization and direction of the ancillary services lines, contract services and daily plant and related operations for the Lincoln and Omaha Campuses.

Prior to Madonna, Griess spent 24 years at Box Butte General Hospital in Alliance, Neb. Thirteen of those years Griess served as the hospital’s chief executive officer, where he oversaw the hospital’s $42 million addition project. He started working at the hospital in 1992 as the laboratory manager before being promoted to vice president of Clinical/Support Services. He became CEO in 2003.

Griess’ professional affiliations include being an American College of Healthcare Executives Fellow since 2011 and memberships with the Nebraska Hospital Association and Nebraska Rural Health Association.

In mid-October, Dan Steinbach, Madonna’s director of Facilities Management System, announced his plans to retire. During his 21-year tenure with the organization, Steinbach has been an integral part of the building and expansion projects on the Lincoln Campus and the planning and construction of the $93 million Omaha Campus.

Maul, Executive Director of the Lincoln Convention and Visitors Bureau, succeeds retired Nebraska National Guard Adjutant General Roger Lempke, now a staff member for Senator Deb Fischer.

Also elected were Ro b Tr eb i l c o c k as Vice President and Scott Haas as Secretary/ Treasurer.

Trebilcock is the Senior Director of Major Giving for the United Way of the Midlands, and Haas serves as the Division Manager of Orthopaedics for CHI Health.

Jeff Maul

Roger Lempke

Rob Trebilcock

Scott Haas

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium Welcomes Dr. Jason Herrick

Mike Kemp

Joanne Owens-Nauslar

Lempke, who served as President the past three years will remain on the Executive Committee as Past President.

Elected to the Board of Directors as at-large members were Mike Kemp, Associate Athletic Director at the University of Nebraska Omaha and Dr. Joanne Owens-Nauslar, President and Founder of Fitness Is Living.

Members re-elected to two-year terms include: Brian Larrington, Regional Manager for Merial LTD; Elmer Wessel, President of SourceOne; Denise Zwiener, Executive Director of Buffalo County Community Partners; Daryl Korinek, USVB/NCAA Volleyball Official; and Anita Jackson, Cornhusker State Games Disc Golf Director.

The Nebraska Sports Council Board meets quarterly and provides oversight for the Cornhusker State Games and other programs and events, which attracted more than 20,000 total participants in 2016.

The NSC is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization with a mission of providing quality sports competition for athletes of all ages/ abilities and promoting healthy and active lifestyle choices.

The organization is privately funded, mostly through participation fees, sponsorships and donations.

Learn more at NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.

Dr. Jason Herrick joins Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium as t h e n ew d i r e c t o r o f reproductive sciences.

Herrick will be tasked with evolving the Zoo’s internationally recognized reproductive researc h program, improving the success of natural and assisted breeding efforts and maintaining genetically viable animal populations, both at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium and other institutions accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

He draws on more than 20 years of experience, having held positions at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden’s Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW), the University of Illinois at Urbana – Champaign’s Department of Comparative Biosciences and, most recently, the Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine.

Herrick remains actively involved in on-going studies for in-vitro fertilization in domestic cats, fertility in male snow leopards and the management of sand cats and black-footed cats in human care using artificial insemination.

He is also a member of multiple felid conservation groups affiliated with AZA, as well as the South Africa-based Black-Footed Cat Working Group and, to date, has co-authored more than 25 scientific publications on various species.

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium (OmahaZoo.com) is currently open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Winter general admission prices are $14.95 for adults (12-64), $13.95 for seniors (64 and over) and $9.95 for children (3-11) through March 14.

JANUARY 2017 Strictly Business 25

PERSONNEL NEWS

Veridian Credit Union Welcomes Sean Miglini

Kutak Rock Adds Six Attorneys in Omaha

Veridian Credit Union is pleased to announce that Sean Miglini has been hired to the position of Senior Commercial Loan Officer.

The national law firm Kutak Rock LLP (KutakRoc k. com) is pleased to announce the addition of six lawyers to its Omaha office: Sarah Duc hnak, Gregory Grattan, Matthew Marvin, Michael Ramirez, Sarah Duchnak Gregory Grattan Joshua Weiner and Andrew Whealy join the firm as associates.

Duchnak is a member of the tax credit practice group.

She represents participants in t h e a f fo r d a b l e housing credit Matthew Marvin Michael Ramirez industry. Duchnak earned a J.D. from the University of Nebraska College of Law in 2016 and a B.A. from the University of California, Berkeley in 2013. She is licensed currently in the State of California.

Joshua Weiner Andrew Whealy Grattan works in the tax credit practice group and focuses on transactions involving low-income housing tax credits, historic rehabilitation tax credits, and renewable energy tax credits, as well as other related state and federal financing products.

Grattan’s J.D. is from the Chicago-Kent College of Law in 2011. His B.A. is from the University of Georgia in 2005. He is admitted to practice in Nebraska.

Marvin joins the corporate department working primarily in the intellectual property and information technology group. He earned a J.D. from the University of Nebraska College of Law in 2016 and served as Executive Editor of the Nebraska Law Review. He holds a B.A. from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2013. He is licensed to practice in Nebraska.

Ramirez is an associate in the litigation department and a member of the financial services litigation practice group. He focuses on matters involving alleged violations of federal and state securities laws, residential mortgage lender liability, and complex commercial disputes. He holds a J.D. from American University, Washington College of Law in 2012 and an undergraduate degree from Boston College in 2008. He is licensed to practice in Nebraska, the District of Columbia and Maryland.

Weiner joins the litigation department and will focus on commercial litigation. His J.D. is from the University of Iowa College of Law in 2014.

His B.A. is from the University of Nebraska at Omaha in 2010. He is admitted to practice law in the State of Nebraska.

Whealy is a member of the tax credit practice where he focuses on new markets, historic rehabilitation, low-income and renewable energy tax credits as well as other related state and federal financing products. He earned a J.D. from the University of Iowa College of Law in 2008; and a B.A. from Yale University in 2002. He is licensed to practice in Nebraska.

Miglini, an Omaha resident, was previously employed at SAC Federal Credit Union as a Senior Commercial Lender. He’s a graduate of Bellevue University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Management.

Veridian Credit Union, founded in 1934 in Waterloo, Iowa, is a not-for-profit financial cooperative owned by its members. The credit union offers a full range of business and consumer financial services and employs more than 700 people throughout 28 branches. Membership is open to anyone living or working in the credit union’s 45-county field of membership, including Council Bluffs, Omaha and surrounding communities. For more information, please visit www.veridiancu.org.

Delta Dental of Nebraska Promotes David Anderson to Vice President, Sales Delta Dental of Nebraska recently announced the promotion of David Anderson to Vice President, Sales. Over the past 27 years, Dave has been instrumental at Delta Dental in helping build its customer base through his sales expertise and leadership within the brokerage community. In addition to Dave’s personal sales achievements, he has provided leadership for sales efforts throughout Minnesota, North Dakota and Nebraska. He also has been a key contributor at the Delta Dental Plans Association national level through his participation in the private healthcare exchange dialogue.

Delta Dental of Nebraska has been a leading provider of dental benefits in Nebraska since 1985. Delta Dental of Nebraska is an independent nonprofit dental services company that serves the oral health needs of Nebraskans. It is an authorized licensee of the Delta Dental Plan Association of Oak Brook, Illinois. For more information, visit DeltaDentalNE.org.

CFA Society of Nebraska Recognizes Member Milestones CFA Society of Nebraska recognizes and congratulates the following members who have achieved a significant number of consecutive years of professional development in CFA Institute’s continuing education program in 2016. These individuals have demonstrated an ongoing commitment to the highest standards of competency and ethics, which sets them apart from others in the investment management profession.

30 Years: John H. Conley, CFA, with D.A. Davidson & Co. is being recognized as one of only nine people in the world to complete 30 consecutive years of professional development achievement. 10 Years: Dr. C. Shawn Bengtson, CFA, WoodmenLife; Jeffrey S. Birdsley, CFA, BTC Capital Management; Brett Dale Carson, CFA, Carson Wealth Management Group; Dr. Richard A. DeFusco, CFA, University of Nebraska - Lincoln; Randall A. Johnson, CFA, Talent Plus, Inc.; Ryan D. Johnson, CFA, Ameritas Investment Partners; Paul J. Kramper, CFA, Mutual of Omaha Companies; Clinton T. Rushing, CFA, D.A. Davidson & Co.; Scott A. Wendt, CFA, First Nebraska Trust Co. Find out more about the CFA Society of Nebraska at www.cfasociety. org/nebraska or www.cfainstitute.org.

26 Strictly Business JANUARY 2017

PERSONNEL NEWS

Nicole Ducheneaux Named 2016 Native American “40 Under 40” Award Recipient The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development (NCAIED; res. ncaied.org) is pleased to announce its 2016 class of “Native American 40 Under 40” award recipients. This prestigious award is bestowed upon individuals under the age of 40, nominated by members of their communities, who have demonstrated leadership, initiative, and dedication and made significant contributions in business and their community.

Nicole Ducheneaux, a member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe and a resident of Omaha, NE is among the 40 under 40 award winners that were honored during the 41st Annual Indian Progress in Business Awards (INPRO) Gala at the Buffalo Thunder Resort and Casino in Santa Fe, NM on November 16th. The awards are part of the Reservation Economic Summit New Mexico (RES New Mexico), which is a regional event for the premier economic development gathering in Indian Country. National RES in Las Vegas will celebrate its 31st year this coming March.

Nicole Ducheneaux is a Partner at Fredericks Peebles & Morgan LLP, where she represents tribes and tribal entities in state, federal, and tribal courts. Most recently, Nicole has represented her own tribe in litigation over Dakota Access Pipeline. She previously served as a Staff Attorney for the Office of the State Public Defender and Montana Capital Defense Office, representing indigent defendants in State court primarily on the Flathead Indian Reservation. Nicole received her J.D. from the University of Montana School of Law and B.A. in U.S. History from Fort Lewis College.

Nebraska Community Foundation Elects Board Members Nebraska Community Foundation is pleased to announce the election of Damon T. “Dan” Bahensky of Kearney to its board of directors.

Bahensky has been a lawyer in Kearney since 1977 and is a partner in the law firm of Parker, Grossart, Bahensky, Beucke, Bowman & Symington, L.L.P. Bahensky has a deep commitment to community volunteerism, serving on the boards of the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce, Central Nebraska Goodwill Foundation, Nebraska Golf Hall of Fame and the University of Nebraska Foundation. He is past president of the Kearney Library Board, Good Samaritan Hospital Foundation, Citizen Advocacy of Central Nebraska, and Kearney State College Foundation. Bahensky is past chairman of the Kearney Area Community Foundation, University of Nebraska Alumni Association, and Good Samaritan Hospital.

Five current members have been re-elected to serve three-year terms on the NCF board: K.C. Belitz, Columbus; Casey Garrigan, Omaha; Judy Parks, Papillion; Lynn Roper, Lincoln, and Greg Vasek, Lincoln.

Nebraska Community Foundation is a statewide 501(c)(3) organization using charitable giving to build prosperous communities. NCF provides training, strategic development, gift planning assistance and financial management to volunteer leaders of community-based, organizational and donor-advised funds serving more than 250 communities. In the last five years more than 36,000 contributions have been made to NCF affiliated funds, and more than $125 million has been reinvested to benefit Nebraska communities. Visit NebraskaHometown.org for more information.

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Douglas County Welcomes New Emergency Communications Director David Sleeter Douglas County would like to welcome its new Emergency Communications Director, David Sleeter, who started December 5, 2016.

The Wisconsin Rapids, WI native previously worked as the director of 911 communications for Rock County, Wisconsin from 1995 until his retirement in 2013.

With nearly 30 years of public safety experience including law enforcement and jail administration, Sleeter is a veteran when it comes to understanding emergency communications. He’s eager to bring his experience to Douglas County and help facilitate the technology upgrades at the 911 Center made possible by Douglas County voters and the passing of the $45 million public safety bond issue. “If you look at what’s being developed and tackled here, it’s impressive,” Sleeter said. “Staying up-to-date with technology is a challenge that 911 centers across the country are dealing with. I’m looking forward to working with all of the public safety agencies in and around Douglas County.”

Kelly Grefe Named Vice President Commercial Banker of Northwest Bank, La Vista John Bothof, President of Northwest Bank in Omaha, is pleased to announce the addition of Kelly Grefe as Vice President Commercial Banker for Northwest Bank, La Vista.

Grefe has over 9 years of commercial lending and relationship management experience. His responsibilities include production of all business banking products such as business operating lines of credit, business equipment loans, small business loans and commercial real estate in the La Vista market. Additional services include commercial deposit accounts and electronic banking services.

Grefe received his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration/ Finance from Hastings College. Prior to joining Northwest Bank, Grefe was employed at Bank of the West in Omaha as VP, Commercial Lender.

Northwest Bank (www.bank-northwest.com) is a $1.40 billion community bank that offers a full line of business, agricultural, mortgage, consumer deposit and lending services as well as wealth management services. Northwest Bank has offices located in Algona, Arnolds Park, Ankeny, Estherville, Fort Dodge, Humboldt, Le Mars, Milford, Sioux Center, Sioux City, Spencer, Spirit Lake, West Des Moines, Iowa and Omaha and La Vista, Nebraska.

JANUARY 2017 Strictly Business 27

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PERSONNEL NEWS

Monte Schatz Joins Vandenack Weaver LLC The law firm of Vandenack Weaver LLC is proud to announce the addition of Monte L. Schatz as an attorney for the firm.

Monte offers clients a wealth of experience in practice areas vital to business and finance.

His expertise includes Estate Planning, Trust and Estate Administration, Business, and Finance. Monte possesses the knowledge to assist individuals and businesses in dealing with business, tax and estate planning issues.

Monte received his Juris Doctorate from the University of South Dakota.

Vandenack Weaver is a full service business and tax law firm serving local, regional and national clients. With an unwavering commitment to the people and the businesses they serve, the firm’s skilled attorneys focus on using technology to assist in providing cost-effective quality legal services in a broad range of complex transactional, litigation, tax, trust and estate matters to ensure custom solutions, results and satisfaction for their clients. For more information, visit vwattys.com.

UNL Names Donde Plowman Executive Vice Chancellor, Chief Academic Officer The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has announced Donde Plowman as executive vice chancellor and chief academic officer.

Plowman, the James Jr. and Susan Stuart Dean of Nebraska’s College of Business Administration, begins her new role at the university on Jan. 1. The appointment is pending Board of Regents approval.

The executive vice chancellor reports directly to the chancellor, is the chief academic officer and is the responsible authority in the absence of the chancellor. Formerly known as the senior vice chancellor for academic affairs, the executive vice chancellor is the intellectual and academic leader at the university with the mission and responsibility of achieving excellence across all areas. Nebraska’s academic deans, other than those in the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the Student Affairs Office and the Office of Research will directly report to Plowman.

Plowman came to Nebraska in 2010. Under her leadership as dean, the business college has experienced steady growth, including construction of a new $84 million, 240,000-square-foot building to open next August. In 2016, the University of Nebraska Foundation awarded Plowman the Harlan J. Noddle Award for Distinguished Development Service for her efforts in raising $150 million for the college, including more than $80 million for the new building. She was also instrumental in forming the Don O. Clifton Strengths Institute made possible by a $30 million gift from the Clifton Family and Gallup organization.

During Plowman’s tenure, several new programs have been initiated at the college. They include the CBA Honors Academy, Career Services at CBA, a certificate program in sales excellence, a new master’s program in intercollegiate athletics administration that partners with Nebraska Athletics and a new Department of Business Analytics and Supply Chain Management. College enrollment has increased the last six years by 22 percent with a 14 percent increase in graduate students in fall 2016. Additionally, 50 new faculty members joined the college during Plowman’s tenure.

Kathy Farrell, who is chair of the Department of Finance, will become interim dean of the College of Business Administration. She served as associate dean of the college for four years and has been at Nebraska since 1993.

28 Strictly Business JANUARY 2017

Sue Korth Makes Becker’s Hospital Review Top 130 Women Leaders List Becker’s Hospital Review has published the 2016 edition of its list of “130 Women Hospital and Health System Leaders to Know” and Sue Korth of Methodist Women’s Hospital was among those recognized.

Korth was one of three Nebraskans to make the list, with Jan Kleinhesselink of Lincoln and Kelly Driscoll of Norfolk also named. All recipients have demonstrated outstanding leadership and management throughout their careers, leading initiatives to improve their individual organizations’ quality, operational and financial performance, as well as the well-being of the communities they serve.

Serving as vice president and chief operating officer of Methodist Women’s Hospital since 2007, Korth has guided the campus to quickly become the regional leader in births and women’s health. The Women’s Hospital is coming off its most successful year since opening in 2010, with 5,413 births in 2015.

As the top administrator for the 126-bed facility, Korth oversaw the construction, implementation of services and hiring of personnel during the three year construction process. Korth has over 30 years of clinical and medical management experience, including five years as a clinical supervisor in high-risk OB/GYN at Methodist Hospital.

Borsheims Hires Andy Brabec as E-Commerce Director, Lisa Hansen as Gift Buyer Borsheims Fine Jewelry & Gifts has hired a new Director of eCommerce and Gift Buyer.

Andy Brabec and Lisa Hansen join a team at Borsheims that has been helping customers celebrate the special occasions in their lives for more than a century.

Brabec will be responsible for overseeing Borsheims website, www.borsheims.com, and the team that manages it. He is a graduate of Doane University and comes to Borsheims with several years of experience in marketing Andy Brabec and web marketing. Brabec is involved in the American Marketing Association and volunteers with the Nebraska Children’s Home Society.

Hansen will be responsible for selecting the exquisite china, serveware, home accessories, and other luxury items found in Borsheims Gift Gallery. A graduate of the University of Nebraska Lincoln, her prior jobs gave her expertise in developing new product, building catalogs, and selecting product from trade shows. Hansen volunteers with Camp You Can, Children’s Hospital, and Open Door Mission.

Lisa Hansen Borsheims Fine Jewelry and Gifts is one of the nation’s largest independent jewelry stores and a proud member of the Berkshire Hathaway family. With an international clientele spanning 50 states and six continents, Borsheims continues to operate with the vision that has guided the company for more than a century: “We are privileged to share in the special moments in our customers’ lives. We will treat this opportunity with the respect and importance it deserves.”

For more information about Borsheims, contact Adrienne Fay at (402) 391-0400 or adriennefay@borsheims.com.

NON-PROFIT NEWS

Omaha Home for Boys Announces 7th Annual Golf Tournament

Heartland Family Service to Host 2017 Carnival of Love Gala

Omaha Home for Boys is excited to announce its 7th Annual Golf Tournament taking place June 7, 2017 at Tiburon Golf Club. This fun-filled day of golf on the beautiful greens of Tiburon offers a number of sponsorship and team opportunities.

Sponsorships range from $150 to $3,500 and offer a unique way to promote your business through recognition at the banquet, signage and online. The 4-person scramble tournament costs $600 per team, which includes green and cart fees, lunch and dinner.

The Heartland Family Ser vice Friends Guild i n v i t e s yo u t o revel in Rio at the Heartland Family Service “Carnival of Love” Gala on Saturday, Feb. 11 at the Embassy Suites-La Vista.

Enjoy appetizers, cocktails, casino games, silent and live auctions, a raffle and dinner at this casual-attire event. Guests are encouraged to wear jeans and bling!

This year’s “Carnival of Love” Gala co-chairs are Julie Gibson-Beier and JoAnn Gould. The honorary chairs are Kacey and Joe Lempka. Melissa Steffes is the Friends Guild President.

All funds raised will support Heartland Family Service’s mission to strengthen individuals and families in our community. Through a video presentation during the evening’s program, guests will experience the journey of a former Heartland Family Service client who found her path to a better tomorrow with help from proceeds at this award-winning event. In 2013 and 2014, the “Carnival of Love” was voted Best Event Over 500 by readers of metroMAGAZINE, and Best Theme in 2015.

Tickets are $150 ($75 tax-deductible) or $1,500 ($1,000 taxdeductible) for a table of 10. Contact Nicole Tromler at (402) 5527424 or NTromler@HeartlandFamilyService.org for reservations and sponsorship opportunities.

Proceeds from the golf tournament support the programs of the Omaha Home for Boys, a youth care provider dedicated to supporting and strengthening youth, young adults and families.

Serving youth ages 14 to 24 for over 96 years, Omaha Home for Boys aims to equip young adults with the positive skills needed to become active, contributing members of the community.

Don’t miss your opportunity to be a part of this exciting day of golf benefiting the at-risk youth and families served by Omaha Home for Boys. To register your foursomes or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact the Omaha Home for Boys development office at (402) 457-7165 or visit OmahaHomeForBoys.org.

MLCDC Awarded $25,000 Grant to Increase Small Business Lending The Midlands Latino Community Development Corporation (MLCDC) has been awarded a $25,000 grant from the Sam’s Club Charitable Giving Program. Approved by t h e N a t i o n a l Association for Latino Community Asset Builders (NALCAB), these grants are given to organizations nationwide that are dedicated to actively increasing lending to small and microbusinesses.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, MLCDC provides Latinos with opportunities to generate economic growth in the Midlands.

Through its micro-lending program, MLCDC helps small businesses that have no access to bank loans by providing business loans.

These initiatives include developing business plans tailored to ongoing management and operations, assisting owners in the preparation of documents necessary to bank loans and/or other financing through micro-lending. MLCDC will also officially become a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) in 2017.

These are institutions that are 100% dedicated to delivering responsible, affordable lending to help low-income, low-wealth, and other disadvantaged people and communities join the economic mainstream.

For more information about MLCDC and the work this local nonprofit organization is doing in the Omaha Metro area, please call (402) 933-4466 or visit www.midlandslatinocdc.org.

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NON-PROFIT NEWS Midwest International Trade Association Donates 25,000 New Books to Lydia House

Alzheimer’s Association to Host Annual Statewide Gala

Over 25,000 new books will be donated to the Open Door Mission’s Educational Programs for the Homeless and Needy by the Midwest International Trade Association (MITA) members, along with AIT Worldwide Logistics Book Program – who help to gather, store and sort the books. Last year MITA donated 25,000 new books, including books for children, pre-teens and adults. This is the fourteenth year MITA has joined with the AIT Worldwide Logistics Book Program to donate books to the Open Door Mission’s Educational Programs for the Homeless and Needy.

Fo r t h e s e c o n d year, the Nebraska community will be coming together at the 2017 Statewide Growing Hope Gala with a single united goal – to end Alzheimer’s disease and find Nebraska’s first survivor. Although this is only the second year the Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter has had the opportunity to host an event representative of the whole state, the tradition of the annual Gala has been woven into the tapestry of our community for many years.

This year, MITA members worked together again to collect over 25,000 new books. The Lydia House book drive is an annual fundraising event that allows MITA members to contribute and support the local community.

MITA is a non-profit organization made up of members from many fields relating to international trade. The organization’s mission is to foster the development and expansion of international trade in the Midwest; discover and encourage new foreign markets for our products and services; promote better understanding and appreciation of the significance of international trade in our economy; and provide a forum for members to share ideas on common international trade problems and solutions. MITA achieves its mission through workshops, seminars, monthly meetings and the annual World Trade Conference. To find out more about the Midwest International Trade Association, visit the website at www.mitaonline.org.

TeamMates Charity Partner for Pinnacle Bank Championship Golf Tournament Te a m M a t e s , the youth mentoring p r o g r a m f o u n d e d by Tom and Nancy Osborne, has been selected as the charity partner for The Pinnacle Bank Championship golf tournament.

The organization, which encourages youth to graduate high school and pursue post-secondary education, will receive a check representing net proceeds from ticket sales and event sponsorships.

An event to announce the partnership to the community was held on December 1st at the Pinnacle Bank offices at 180th and Dodge.

Support Nebraska, Inc., a 501(c)(3) foundation, was developed exclusively to manage and operate the Pinnacle Bank Championship as the tournament host organization. A board of community volunteers chaired by Brad Strittmatter selected TeamMates as the foundation’s charity partner for the tournament’s inaugural year.

2017 marks the return of the Web.com Tour to Omaha after a three-year absence. Pinnacle Bank struck a five-year agreement with the PGA TOUR earlier this year to bring the Tour stop back to Nebraska. The Web.com Tour’s prior events in Omaha were contested from 1996 to 2013 and raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for community charities. The events also featured some of the Web.com Tour’s best community support, from volunteer efforts to fan attendance.

The upcoming tournament will be held from July 17th – 23rd at The Club at Indian Creek and features a purse of $600,000. The Web.com Tour’s prior events in Omaha produced champions such as PGA TOUR winners Bo Van Pelt, Johnson Wagner, Heath Slocum and Jason Gore. For more information about the Pinnacle Bank Championship, please visit thepinnaclebankchampionship.com.

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The 2017 Alzheimer’s Gala will be a Roaring Twenties themed event taking place at Nebraska Innovation Campus in Lincoln on February 11, 2017. The event includes a cocktail hour, dinner, silent auction and entertainment by Brewksy’s Food & Spirits, “Blazin’ Pianos – the Midwest’s finest dueling piano show.” Individual tickets or tables can be purchased online at alz.org/nebraska. If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities, please contact Megan Myers at mmyers@ alz.org.

Alzheimer’s disease is a growing epidemic and the nation’s sixthleading cause of death. As baby boomers age, the number of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease will rapidly escalate, increasing well beyond today’s more than 5 million Americans to as many as 16 million by 2050. The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research.

Nebraska Home Appliance Feeds Nebraska’s Hungry During Holidays As winter began to bite through Omahan’s coats, families retreated inside their homes to bask in the warmth of fires, feasts and families. However, Nebraska Home Appliance, an appliance maintenance and repair company serving the Omaha area, understood that not everyone would have access to food during the holidays. To combat Nebraska’s hungry population, the company partnered with the Food Bank of the Heartland to ensure that the holiday spirit misses no one.

As the largest food bank in both states, Food Bank of the Heartland serves 93 counties, distributing food to 530 food pantries, schools, emergency shelters and other nonprofit partners.

When Nebraska Home Appliance serviced resident’s appliances in December, they also picked up financial or canned food donations for Omahans in need.

“The holidays are about encouraging selfless acts and giving, about celebrating and strengthening our communities,” said Todd Daganaar, president of Nebraska Home Appliance. “We were thrilled to partner with the Food Bank of the Heartland to ensure that everyone was made to feel a part of and uplifted by our community.”

Family owned and operated since 1988, Nebraska Home Appliance is a staple in the Omaha community, providing fast and reliable appliance repair, maintenance and parts for all major brands. With a team of trusted technicians, the company has built a reputation as the community’s “Hometown Hero.” The company is located in Cedarnole Plaza. For more information, visit nhaparts.com.

NON-PROFIT NEWS Cash Prizes Awarded to Winners of BBB’s “Start With Trust” Video Contest

Resolve to Donate Blood Regularly in Honor of National Blood Donor Month

High school students can gain valuable creative and marketing experience and earn cash prizes for themselves and their schools by producing one minute videos based on the theme “Start With Trust” (BBB’s tag line) in a contest sponsored by BBB’s Foundation. All students in grades 9–12 may submit an entry. They can work in teams of 2-4 persons or individually to produce and market their videos.

First Place prizes of $500 will be awarded to both the creators of the winning videos and to their schools, and Second Place prizes of $250 will be awarded to the creators of the runnerup videos and to their schools or to a charity if the students are home-schooled in both metro Omaha and metro Lincoln. Submission deadline is January 13, 2017.

For more information go to bbbinc.org and click on the Student Video Contest icon or call Jeff Niebaum at 800-649-6814 #8550.

For medical emergencies, ongoing treatments, and surgeries, blood is the staple upon which a patient’s life depends. There is no substitute for blood. The Nebraska Community Blood Bank’s only hope is the blood received through volunteer donations from people like you.

Did you know that less than seven percent of the population provides 100 percent of the blood that is used for transfusions? In addition, more than four million people get a second chance at life each year because of blood transfusions made possible by volunteer blood donors!

Blood donations are a life-saving gift with the power to bring more tomorrows.

Make a resolution to become a routine Nebraska Community Blood Bank blood donor in 2017. All are encouraged to donate blood at least once per season. Regular donations are needed for whole blood, double red cells, and platelets—call today to find out the right donation type for you! To book one appointment or even a full year, call (877) 488-9414 or visit donor.ncbb.org/web.

As a way to thank blood donors for their selfless diligence, you will be eligible for incentives and promotions that are offered throughout the year. This includes drawings for men’s basketball tickets in January!

Mayor Jean Stothert Proclaims Omaha Trauma Informed Community Mayor Jean Stother t proclaimed Omaha as a Trauma Informed Community on Friday, December 9, at 7:30 a.m. at an event hosted by Project Harmony (www. projectharmony.com).

“The Trauma Informed Community initiative is a collaborative effort to create a safe, supportive and engaging community,” said Project Harmony Executive Director Gene Klein. “Together, we will provide the tools and supports necessary to break systemic cycles of trauma and to create a healthy and resilient community.”

“Nebraska Families Collaborative (NFC) is a Trauma Informed Community partner with Project Harmony. Too many families in Omaha have faced trauma in their lives, and NFC wants to be a part of the solution. The Mayor’s proclamation is a key step in raising the awareness about families affected by trauma and resources that can help them to heal and thrive,” said Dave Newell President & CEO of Nebraska Families Collaborative.

In Douglas and Sarpy County, it is estimated that 48,000 children K-8 have suffered from a traumatic event.

“Unfortunately, we cannot live in a world without trauma. But we can live in a community where people have the knowledge and training to reduce the impact of trauma and build resilience,” said Dr. Adi Pour, director of the Douglas County Health Department.

Project Harmony was honored to welcome Epidemiologist Gary Slutkin of Cure Violence, who has created science-based strategies that aim to reduce violence by 40 to 70 percent.

“Trauma has a profound impact on the behavioral health of individuals and families,” said Dr. Howard Liu, child psychiatrist and director of the Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska (BHECN). “We believe every licensed behavioral health professional should be trained in trauma informed care, and are working closely with training programs to make this a priority. This collaborative effort to become a Trauma Informed Community is invaluable in building awareness about the effects of trauma and strengthening our ability as a community to address these concerns.”

Knitters, Crocheters Needed for AHA’s Little Hats, Big Hearts Project™ Volunteers from around the country are joining the American Hear t Association (AHA), in connection with The Children’s Heart Foundation, to celebrate American Heart Month by knitting and crocheting red hats for newborns born at participating hospitals.

Known as Little Hats, Big Hearts™, the project promotes awareness of heart disease and congenital heart defects, as well as serving as an opportunity to empower moms to live a heart healthy life and help their children to do the same. To support this project, AHA is asking for donations of knitted or crocheted hats and donations of red yarn.

Yarn must be cotton or acrylic, medium to heavy weight and machine washable and dryable. Donations of red hats in both premature and newborn sizes (without decorations for safety reasons) are needed.

All mailed-in donations must be received at the American Heart Association’s Greater Nebraska Regional Office in Lincoln (1540 S. 70th St., Suite 100, Lincoln, NE 68506) by Friday, Jan. 13.

In-person donations can be made through Friday, Jan.13 during regular business hours at the offices in Lincoln and Omaha (9900 Nicholas St., Suite 200, Omaha, NE 68114). Three Jo-Ann Fabrics stores are also accepting donations during store business hours: 13415 West Center Rd. (Omaha), 10521 S. 15th St. (Bellevue), and 220 N. 66th St. #27 (Lincoln).

For more information, visit www.Heart.org/LittleHatsBigHearts.

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NON-PROFIT NEWS

OneWorld Seeking Donations, Volunteers for Baby Boutique At OneWorld, it is their belief that everyone deserves access to the best health care possible, regardless of economic or insurance status. As such, one of the organization’s key missions is to increase prenatal patients’ access to care. Prenatal care decreases likelihood of preterm births, birth defects and other harm to new mothers and babies.

OneWorld’s Baby Boutique helps underserved families prepare for newborns. Every time families attend prenatal appointments, classes and newborn checkups, they earn “baby bucks” to spend. With baby essentials as incentives, the Boutique encourages women to seek early and consistent prenatal care.

Since its opening in 2013, OneWorld patients have visited the Baby Boutique more than 2,850 times to receive useful items like clothing, diapers, blankets and bibs. Volunteers open the Boutique on Mondays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and on Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

In recent months, the Boutique has run out of several items on its inventory list. You can help OneWorld restock the shelves by making a donation to the Baby Boutique at www.oneworldomaha.org/donate.

Volunteers are also needed to work in the Boutique—call Megan at (402) 991-5642 for more information.

Omaha Heart and Stroke Ball Highlights American Heart Month Mar k your calendar for Feb. 4, 2017, as the American H e a r t Association brings the 29th Annual Omaha Heart and Stroke Ball to the Embassy Suites – La Vista. The Heart and Stroke Ball is sponsored locally by NP Dodge and Dana and Danielle Bradford with media sponsor WOWT NBC Omaha.

The Omaha Heart and Stroke Ball, this year themed “Heart Rocks,” is the annual black-tie gala benefiting the American Heart Association’s lifesaving mission of building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. Nearly 1,000 individuals from Omaha’s business, medical and social communities are expected to attend the gala, which is led by honorary chairs Sandy and Kate Dodge, Michael and Laura Luther and Nate and Meg Dodge with chairs Dana and Danielle Bradford.

Table and individual ticket information is available at www.heart.org/ omahaheartball. For information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Kelsey Ridder at (402) 810-6848 or Kelsey.Ridder@heart.org.

The 2016 Omaha Heart and Stroke Ball raised more than $550,000 for the American Heart Association. In the past five years (2011-15), the American Heart Association has funded 29 studies in Nebraska at a cost of $4,096,304 including $2.3 million in 2015.

The Omaha Heart and Stroke Ball is just one of many events for the American Heart Association in February, which is American Heart Month. National Wear Red Day is Feb. 3 and the free Omaha Red Dress Dash is Feb. 9. Visit the American Heart Association – Nebraska Facebook page at www.facebook.com/HeartNebraska for more information.

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NSRA Recycling Equipment Grants Available Nebraska State Recycling Association (NSRA; recyclenebraska.org) still has grant funds available from the 2016-17 grant cycle for municipalities, other government entities, nonprofits and recycling companies needing to purchase recycling equipment. Interested parties should visit www. recyclenebraska.org and call or email Julie Diegel at (402) 202-0755 or jdiegel@recyclenebraska.org.

Grants can help fund the purchase of recycling trailers, semi-trailers, carts, dumpsters, balers, lift-gates, forklifts, trucks and more. Equipment may be new, used or in need of refurbishing. In some cases, an applicant’s existing equipment can be refurbished with this grant. Grants will be awarded until the funds are depleted. Grant applications are due by the 15th of each month. This grant is one of 118 grants that will receive $18.8 million in grant awards from the Nebraska Environmental Trust, which are funded by proceeds from the Nebraska Lottery.

Radio Talking Book Service Seeking Volunteers Radio Talking Book Service needs your voice! RTBS serves the state of Nebraska with a mission to provide human-voiced print information to individuals who have visual or physical disabilities which prevent them from reading printed material. Volunteers bring the printed word to life for over 3,000 blind or visually impaired Nebraskans, and they would love to hear your voice on the radio too.

Volunteer opportunities include reading live or recording programming for the Radio Talking Book Network, reading and recording text books and course material for the Listening Link program, as well as administrative and community engagement volunteer positions. “Radio Talking Book volunteers enjoy giving our listeners a world of information,” says Volunteer Coordinator, Sybil Mahan. “RTBS programming gives the listener the opportunity to be well informed and to look forward to what is happening every day.”

Please contact Sybil at (402) 572-3003 or smahan@rtbs.org. Visit rtbs. org to learn more, to listen to RTBN, and to sign up to volunteer today.

Greater Omaha Area Bowling Association Supports Papillion’s Veterans Park Project The Greater Omaha Area Bowling Association in partnership with their Bowlers to Veteran’s Link donated $500 to the Papillion Community Foundation for the Veterans Park project. The Veterans Park is a newly designated park in Papillion which celebrates the service of Sarpy County veterans.

The park project which is collaboration with the Papillion Community Foundation, City of Papillion and Papillion American Legion Post #32 has seen the completion of the first design phase which includes flags and flag poles for all military branches, benches and the Honor Walls which hold the names of more than four hundred local veterans. Future designs for the park include a military timeline, events plaza and pergola.

The Veterans Park project began with the work of several community organizations including the Papillion Junior Women’s Club, the Papillion Garden Club and City Council members Jason Gaines and Steve Engberg along with the City of Papillion. The Papillion Community Foundation has been working with the Papillion American Legion Post #32 to help raise funds for the park costs. For more information, please visit www.papillionfoundation.org or call (402) 331-3917.

The Greater Omaha Area Bowling Association (www.gobowlomaha. org) has more than 6,000 local members who donated funds in support of the BVL (Bowlers to Veteran’s Link), which is a nationwide campaign joining bowler’s contributions to the needs of veterans.

NON-PROFIT NEWS

Cabela’s, Harry and Reba Huge Foundation Offering Women in Leadership Scholarships

Midlands Community Foundation Awards Grants Totaling $96,340

Cabela’s, the World’s Foremost Outfitter of hunting, fishing and outdoor gear, together with the Harry and Reba Huge Foundation, will be awarding $10,000 scholarships to four female graduates of Nebraska high schools this spring. Cabela’s Women in Leadership scholarships are part of an initiative by Cabela’s leaders to encourage young women to become leaders of the future. This is the fifth year Cabela’s has partnered with the Harry and Reba Huge Foundation to issue these scholarships, which will be awarded to women who graduate in the spring of 2017 and plan to attend college in the fall of 2017. Scholarship winners may attend any college or university. Not only will the students receive $10,000 — $2,500 a year for four years — they also will have opportunities to receive mentoring from women in leadership positions at Cabela’s and possible internships with the company.

Applications will be due Feb. 6 and are available through the ScholarshipQuest website (www.educationquest.org), the Harry and Reba Huge Foundation website (www.thehugefoundation.org), or from high school counselors.

Midlands Community Foundation (MCF; midlandscommunity. org) has awarded grants totaling $96,340 to 18 nonprofit organizations s e r v i n g S a r py and Cass counties including: Assistance League of Omaha - $6,000; At Ease USA - $6,200; Autism Action Partnership - $2,500; Boy Scouts of America – Cornhusker Council - $3,000; Boy Scouts of America – Mid America Council - $3,000; Fontenelle Forest - $5,000; Food Bank for the Heartland - $15,000; Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska - $4,400; Habitat for Humanity of Sarpy County - $5,000; Kids Can Community Center - $5,000; Lift Up Sarpy County - $2,240; Lofte Community Theatre - $2,500; Ollie Webb Center, Inc. - $5,000; Omaha Performing Arts - $5,000; OneWorld Community Health Centers, Inc. - $10,000; Project Lifesaver - $2,000; Papillion Area Lions Club - $7,000; Sarpy County Historical Society - $7,500.

Of the $96,340 that was awarded, $20,500 was awarded from MCF’s Education Fund and $6,200 from MCF’s Military Fund which were established with proceeds from the Foundation’s Reflection Ballevents in 2016 and 2015, respectively. The remaining $69,640 was awarded from MCF’s General Fund.

Representatives of the non-profit organizations receiving grants are as pictured: Front Row (L to R): Karla Rupiper (Midlands Community Foundation Board President); Wendy Hamilton (Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska); Georgie Scurfield (Lift Up Sarpy); Shelby Rust (Habitat for Humanity of Sarpy County); Julie Bear (Midlands Community Foundation Grants Committee Chair); Ben Justman (Sarpy County Historical Society); Jan Jackson (Assistance League of Omaha); Andrea Skolkin (OneWorld Community Health Centers, Inc.); Elizabeth Chalen (Fontenelle Forest); Tonee Gay (Midlands Community Foundation Executive Director).

Back Row (L to R): Beth Kramer (At Ease USA); William Cover (Boy Scouts of America Cornhusker Council); Kevin Griger (Project Lifesaver); Anne Pope (Lofte Community Theatre); Dave Pantos (Autism Action Partnership); Alyssa Kohler (Omaha Performing Arts); John Willoz (Papillion Area Lions Club); Laurie Ackermann (Ollie Webb Center, Inc.); Ericka Smrcka (Food Bank for the Heartland); Michelle Hurt (Boy Scouts of America Mid-America Council); Lisa Bradley (Kids Can Community Center).

This is the first of two grant distributions for Midlands Community Foundation’s fiscal year. The next grant deadline will be February 1, 2017, with funds distributed in April.

Through its grants program, Midlands Community Foundation places an emphasis on prevention and education. The Foundation has a strong commitment toward programs benefiting health, art, culture, community, economic development, education, and human services. For more information, contact Diane Knicky at (402) 991-8027.

Save the Date: Omaha Birth Connection to Host Diaper Drive and Fundraiser Mark your calendar! Join Omaha Birth Connection on May 13, 2017 at Rockbrook Village in Omaha for their annual 5K and Diaper Drive.

Omaha Birth Connection has partnered with national and local 501c3 non-profits No Child Wet Behind and LIFEhouse Partnership to bring awareness, education and the donation of diapers to families with infants and small children in Omaha, NE. 1 in 3 families struggle to afford clean diapers for their children.

Programs exist to assist families with basic necessities such as food, shelter, and clothing but surprisingly, diaper need is not supported by any government program. Omaha Birth Connection is trying to change that by bringing No Child Wet Behind to Omaha, NE. This diaper drive, in conjunction with the proceeds from a 5K race, will benefit families right here in our community. Local businesses and sponsors are helping, you can too. Starting in April, drop your diaper donations at collection boxes throughout the community. On Saturday, May 13th, show your support at the 5K and family fun event. In addition to the race there will be a vendor expo, kids play area, and even a 1-mile family fun run.

BECOME A VOLUNTEER / DONOR / RUNNER / VENDOR / SPONSOR by visiting omahabirthconnection.com/no-child-wet-behind-5k.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Omaha Donates $3,000 to Sacred Heart Elementary School The Kiwanis Club of Great Omaha awarded their sponsored 2nd grade class at Sacred Heart Elementary School a total of $3,000 at a holiday luncheon on Dec. 12. Students and school representatives attended this event, which was hosted by the Kiwanis Club at the German-American Society.

Members of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Omaha have raised $2,000 through various fundraising events and regular donations to benefit technology in the classroom. The group was awarded an additional $1,000 grant from the Nebraska and Iowan District Kiwanis Foundation that will go towards their Sacred Heart 2nd Grade Reading Project.

These gifts will bring resources like tablets to the classroom and fund programs that teach students to use technology to its full potential.

Representatives from the school were presented the grants at the party and students were on hand to enjoy a special lunch, craft projects and special treats from the Kiwanis Club.

Kiwanis International is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Kiwanis Club of Greater Omaha meetings are held on Mondays at noon at the German American Society. Visit KCOGO.com for more information

BLUEBARN Theatre Wins Lighting Award The BLUEBARN Theatre (bluebarn.org) has been recognized in the 43rd Annual IES Illumination Awards! Each year the IES (Illuminating Engineering Society) makes selections from around the world based on professionalism, ingenuity and originality in lighting design in four categories. The BLUEBARN was named in the Outdoor Lighting Design category with a “Special Citation for Use of Light as a Beacon that Enhances the Community Culture.” Designers Andrew Lang and Steve Gollehon from Morrissey Engineering and Jeffrey Day from Min | Day created the design for the new BLUEBARN Theatre, which opened in 2015 at the corner of 10th and Pacific. The IES is an international organization dedicated to improving the lighted environment by bringing together those with lighting knowledge and by translating that knowledge into actions that benefit the public.

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402-933-4632 UnitedHealthcare’s “Solutions for Caregivers” Provides Resources to Help Nebraskans Call for an appointment today!

UnitedHealthcare has expanded availability of Solutions for Caregivers, a program for employers that features in-person, telephonic and online resources designed to help caregivers save money and more effectively provide assistance to the people they support. Nebraska is one of the first states in the nation where the program is now available to employers of all sizes with either self-funded or fully insured health benefit plans.

Nearly 34 million people nationwide provide unpaid care to a loved one 50 or older, according to the National Alliance for Caregiving. To help caregivers get started and access valuable resources, Solutions for Caregivers is available to all Nebraska employers at no additional charge for employees to use the online services. The program offers various resources for caregivers, aging or disabled Americans, and their health care providers, including helpful information, a marketplace, and available support services. A number of large employers have already introduced the program to their employees when it was available as a pilot initiative, encouraging their workforces to take advantage of the available resources. For more information, visit UnitedHealthcare at www.uhc.com or follow @myUHC on Twitter.

Opening of Lauritzen Outpatient Center Brings Unparalleled Experience to Patients Exactly two years to the day since breaking ground, the Lauritzen Outpatient Center officially opened its doors. Both the design of the facility and its location on the edge of the Nebraska Medicine campus will provide one-stop, patient-centered care in a variety of areas. Perhaps the most attractive feature: dedicated surface and garage parking for patients and families offering new convenience not typically provided elsewhere on campus.

The second floor of the facility is occupied by the Fritch Surgery Center, a suite of 10 state-of-the-art operating rooms designed for outpatient procedures. Four of the operating rooms will be dedicated to ophthalmic surgery affiliated with the Truhlsen Eye Institute next door. The Fritch Surgery Center was made possible through a gift

by Charles D. Fritch, MD and his wife, Judy. The building’s top floor, supported by a gift from Bill and Ruth Scott, is home to the headquarters of the UNMC Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, its research laboratories and educational space.

It also includes a new center for telemedicine.

Services within the Lauritzen Outpatient Center opened gradually throughout the month of November, culminating with the opening of the Fritch Surgery Center on Nov. 30. A skywalk connecting the Lauritzen Outpatient Center with the Truhlsen Eye Institute to the east is now under construction. MCL Construction broke ground on the 168,000 square-foot-facility on Nov. 14, 2014. It opened exactly two years later on Nov. 14, 2016. The cost of the project was $70.8 million. A special building dedication was held at the Lauritzen Outpatient Center, 4014 Leavenworth, on Dec. 17 at 10:00 a.m., followed by an open house of the facility.

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HEALTH NEWS

New Vision Implant Procedure Offered for First Time Ever in Nebraska and Iowa For generations, reading glasses after the mid-40s have been seen as inevitable; an inconvenient but necessary fact of life. Dysfunctional Lens Syndrome (DLS), a natural part of the eye’s aging process, starts between ages 40 and 45, causing gradually worsening blurry near vision. Now, a revolutionary procedure called the Raindrop Near Vision Inlay is available to restore near vision. As of December 14, Lance Kugler, MD of Kugler Vision in Omaha, NE is the first surgeon in Nebraska or Iowa to perform the Raindrop Corneal Inlay Procedure to correct near vision.

Approved by the U.S. FDA in June of 2016, this innovative approach to freeing patients from reading glasses is the world’s first corneal inlay to work by changing the shape of the cornea, the clear front part of the eye.

Raindrop is a completely clear inlay which is implanted in a patient’s non-dominant eye in an office procedure that takes only about 15 minutes. The inlay is incredibly small – about the size of a pinhead and less than half the thickness of a human hair. Raindrop is 80% water and is bioengineered to mimic the natural cornea by changing the central curvature of the eye. This small inlay leads to a profound improvement in quality of life.

Kugler Vision (lasikomaha.com) is a world-class refractive surgery center.

As a patient-centric practice, Kugler Vision specializes in procedures to reduce or eliminate reliance on glasses and contact lenses.

New Hubbard Center for Children to Improve Pediatric Health Care in Omaha and Beyond Children’s Hospital & Medical Center is building a 10-floor, 500,000-square-foot clinical facility at 84th & Dodge Streets to accommodate growing demand for its services and improve pediatric care for patients and families. At a private ceremony on Dec. 8, Children’s shared project details, broke ground on the new structure and announced its name: the Hubbard Center for Children. It is named in honor of the late Dr. Theodore F. and Claire M. Hubbard, longtime Omaha residents and philanthropists.

The cutting-edge Hubbard Center for Children will be home to many of Children’s critical pediatric programs and services. Connected physically and integrated architecturally, the Hubbard Center for Children will stand between the hospital and Specialty Pediatric Center. More than 70 new inpatient beds are planned for the Center, with space for additional beds as needed. An attached parking garage will offer 1,000 stalls. The project also involves renovating more than 100,000-square-feet in the current hospital. HDR is providing architecture and engineering services for the project; the Kiewit Building Group will serve as construction manager. Construction is expected to be completed in early 2021. The estimated cost of the new facility is $450 million.

With the Hubbard Center for Children, more robust programs and services will be possible, including enhancements to programs of national prominence like Osteogenesis Imperfecta, which draws patients from across the country and around the world. Planned areas of growth include: Colorectal Center, Neuro-Oncology, Neurosurgery, Fetal Surgery, Expanded Pain Management, Transitional Care, Behavioral Health Medical Stabilization, Larger Pharmacy, Enhanced Radiology & Pathology Services.

The five-year, $50 million “Changing Lives Together” capital campaign will help support the critically-important Hubbard Center for Children and fuel amplified research efforts. Children’s is grateful to the Theodore F. and Claire M. Hubbard Family Foundation for a generous lead gift. In addition to naming the building, the foundation also has pledged support to key areas within the facility, including the new Theodore F. Hubbard, M.D., Cardiac Care Center and the Claire M. Hubbard Healing Garden Solarium. Ted Hubbard Jr. and his wife Colleen have funded the new Rooftop Garden.

To learn more about the Hubbard Center for Children, the Changing Lives Together capital campaign and other naming and sponsorship opportunities, please visit ChangingLives.ChildrensOmaha.org.

New Year’s Resolutions The New Year is here! Since the arrival of 2017, and each new year, is considered to be synonymous with a fresh start, right about now we tend to be reevaluating the past year and moving forward with the resolutions that are intended to transform our lives for the better. This of course could be any number of things, from a bevy of different health-related goals to home buying/selling/improvement endeavors to pursuing a higher level of education, professional advancement or a new hobby, and even the little things that can make a big difference, like cursing less or volunteering more.

If you have yet to make any vows for the coming year, it’s not too late to get the ball rolling, and if you already have a goal in mind, you’ll probably need concrete plan moving forward. We’ve got you covered either way, all thanks to our local experts who are experienced in coming alongside their clients to help accomplish those New Year’s resolutions they’ve set for themselves.

Without fail, when January rolls around, you can always tell that New Year’s resolutions are in full effect as every fitness facility in the area is full to capacity. It’s the place to be…for what seems like every single person in the Lincoln area. But, sadly, it doesn’t last much past the first couple months of the year for the majority of those folks. Hitting the gym is great and all, but whether your goal is to lose weight, strength train, combat a specific health condition, or to lead a healthier, more active and well-rounded lifestyle in general, it’s never going to be the only key player in the game if you want to win long-term (aka actually achieve the resolution you’ve set for yourself).

The secret to good health is balance, and no goal in this area can be achieved without it. Nutrition, exercise, sleep habits, stress levels, eliminating vices, preventative healthcare visits and screening—these all work together. Finding your ideal balance is no doubt a work in progress thanks to all of these contributing factors and more that we haven’t mentioned, but well worth putting forth the effort to do so. Routine is also critical, as are dedication and perseverance.

Let’s begin with what we put into our bodies. You might resolve to eat more fruits and vegetables, to eat organic, to eliminate fast food or restrict your intake of sugar or salt, to only consume foods with ingredients you know or with high nutrient content, or the popular one, sticking to a diet that supports weight loss goals. Whether adding or subtracting, you’ll want to ensure you’re fueling your body with what it needs to produce the results you desire. After this piece is in place, you can then focus on adding more to the mix, working gradually towards achieving optimal health and wellness. It’s indeed a marathon, not a sprint. Nutrition is the cornerstone that must first be addressed in order for everything else to come alongside and be most effective.

“No matter what your goals are related to nutrition, gradual integration

will be critical to meeting them successfully,” advises Kathi Bratberg, owner of Eat Well Nutrition & Wellness, Inc.. “Start out simple, with one specific objective. Once you’ve mastered that, add another one into the mix.

Six months down the line you will have made significant progress, but it won’t have been such a tough fight to get there as it generally is when a person tries to change everything all at once.

It’s easy to set forth really big goals for Kathi Bratberg ourselves, and although ambition is a great quality, it can be overwhelming when you don’t Eat Well Nutrition & Wellness, Inc. hone in on a specific point of focus. Simply resolving to ‘eat healthier’ is very broad, which exacerbates the feeling of stress related to tackling your goal.

Often one will find more success by breaking that down to smaller, more articulate changes that are then introduced in increments. Start with what’s attainable, and then branch out to what might pose more of a challenge. I can not only advise on areas of nutrition that you’re aiming to improve, but I also help with breaking down that overall, big goal at the finish line into a subset of ‘mini goals,’ or a process of attainable steps to take, as well as tracking progress and providing continued support and accountability.

Proper nutrition is essential for living a healthy, happy life. Everything we need to can be found naturally in our food supply, but unfortunately in the world we live in today, everything we should be avoiding is readily available too. Going back to our roots can be difficult given all of the choices in front of us, but it’s worth it. Now more than ever, we need to be smart consumers and make conscious choices that support our health and happiness.”

As the source of our food supply has become a critical factor in how healthy it is to consume, it’s important to know where to go locally to find the food that you can trust will best support your health goals.

“We take great pride in being knowledgeable about our products and nutritional requirements so that we can assist our clients with a diverse range of specific needs based on their goals,” says Sean Fuller, owner of Just Good Meat.

“For the same reason, it’s also been very important to us to ensure that our products Sean Fuller are the very best. At Just Good Meat you’ll Just Good Meat JANUARY 2017 Strictly Business

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find a great selection of meats that are all-natural, locally-sourced, hormone-free, and only administered antibiotics as needed as opposed to on a scheduled basis. We offer an organic line at a very affordable price as well.

We always enjoy assisting our customers when it comes to choosing the right items to complement their diet. Furthermore, variety of meals isn’t something that needs to be compromised either. We can certainly offer a few new ideas or our advice on how to cook or prepare a certain cut of meat that you’ve never tried before. As a prime example, we carry buffalo, which is lower in cholesterol and higher in protein than beef.

We find that a lot of our customers have never tried it, but those who do seem to really enjoy it. We also have many prepared items that are very popular among our customers. I can’t stress enough how important it is to be conscious of what goes into your body, and resolving to improve in this area is a great goal to set for yourself in 2017. We’d be happy to help in any way we can, and with over 800 different products to offer, we invite you to stop in to the store or visit us online at justgoodmeatomaha. com to check out everything we have to offer.”

Doing your own research when it comes to your health and wellbeing, and supporting that with the guidance of your trusted advisors within the medical community as well as many other health-related industries, is a savvy approach that many people have adopted in modern times.

There’s a lot of information out there, but you alone are still the one who is ultimately responsible for the decisions you make.

In addition to all of the lifestyle changes you might resolve to make in 2017, being proactive about your own health is a goal in and of itself.

With all of the advances in screening and preventative healthcare, there’s much to look into that could make a big difference in your health, the number of years you’ll enjoy, and the quality of life during those years.

As one key example, a company right here in Omaha is busy revolutionizing the way prostate cancer screening is conducted, and men from across the nation are coming here to have it performed.

Daniel Cinotto of FirstScan explains, “The science behind optimal

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health care is constantly evolving in all areas, and we are proud and excited to be a part of that progress. We’ve recently introduced a new method for prostate cancer detection that harnesses cutting-edge MRI technology to deliver results at a level of accuracy never before achieved, by a wide margin no less, along with the benefits of being non-invasive and yielding less complications as a result of the procedure. If a patient does have cancer, as it stands currently he will still need to go through the biopsy in order for insurance to Daniel Cinotto pay for treatment, but it’s a step in the right FirstScan direction as an MRI image will tell us if the biopsy is even necessary.

We find that the minute men hear the term prostate cancer, most if not all tend to immediately panic and think about the most horrific things they might have to endure. It is really terrifying to think that you may have cancer, but there’s also a lot of misleading information out there tends to have a negative effect on how men perceive the situation they are in and what they can do about it. The experts on our team felt that the current standard by which prostate cancer detection is performed left a lot to be desired, and we took it upon ourselves to find what we believe is a better way to go about it. We want to be an advocate for men; we want them to know their options and to dispel the myths that are out there.

If you’re a guy over 50 who’s resolving to take the reins and be in control of your health care, this should be on your list. For those who are younger, keep this in the back of your mind and make it a part of the discussion with your primary care provider if nothing else. You have the right to say what you are going to do with your body. The procedure is simple, comfortable, with no needles or probes in the rectum, fast, and most importantly, accurate and affordable. At a cost of $595 to the client, including the radiologist report to their doctor within 3 business days, this

is less than the typical out-of-pocket co-pay for insurance-paid MRI. To make an appointment or learn more, please call us at (402) 934-1999.”

Moving on to other goals in the broader sense, as far as categories go, a big one that’s also pretty common has to do with the place we call home.

New Year’s resolutions in this area might include first-time home ownership, upgrading or downsizing, or tackling home improvement projects.

One thing in particular that delivers the best of both worlds, addressing both health goals and home goals, is actually something that’s also commonly overlooked – think water.

Many of us have heard of the gallon challenge before. Or, at the very least, they are aware of the recommended daily intake of water to be at their healthiest.

“The cleaner the water you drink, the better,” advises Eric Schnakenberg, Director of Business Development for Aqua Systems of Nebraska. “Staying hydrated is critical to staying healthy, as it is what allows your body to function properly, so you want to make sure you’re drinking enough water every day. If you aren’t now, that’s a great resolution to set for the coming year. You’ll be putting a lot of H2O in your body. The quality of that water matters.

As most of us spend the majority of our time at home and work, you’ll ideally want to Eric Schnakenberg have access to clean drinking water at both Aqua Systems of locations. Our systems make great additions to Nebraska the home or workplace. They’re easy to install, require very minimal to no maintenance, and are very affordable. In fact, many of our commercial clients, as employers who see the benefits of a healthy workforce, have added purified water as a part of their wellness programs and offerings. Workplaces with wellness offerings have become much more attractive to current and potential employees.

Something as simple as a water filtration system, or even an ice dispenser, can make a much bigger impact on your organization, improving retention as well as recruiting efforts as these are the types of things that are helping to attract the best and brightest employees. Hydration is only one piece of health, so past that, focus on making the best choices possible because everything works together.

Speaking of which, our main focus here at Aqua Systems is water quality. Not just for consumption, but working water as well. If part of your resolution for your home has to do with purchasing new appliances, and more specifically ones that use water, you’ll also want to look into investing in a water softener, which will actually provide a return too. A water softener will prevent the buildup of hard water in your appliances, which shortens their life expectancy. It not only protects them, keeping them functioning optimally and ensuring longevity but also cuts down on the amount of soap or detergent used. As yet another popular new year’s resolution is financially-related, whether it’s sticking to a budget or putting more money away in savings and so on, if you’re resolving to be smarter with your spending, you’ll be nailing that one too.

All things considered, no matter the resolution, keep in mind that what gets measured gets managed. Don’t just set goals and hope for the best. Measuring your progress is an important part of the process. Stay focused and track your results so that you can really take pride in your accomplishments, and not just when you look back on everything at the end of the journey.”

You might also set your sights on selfimprovement or personal growth, whether that entails furthering your education, changing career paths, taking on a new hobby or project at your job, trying out lessons or activities— there are so many possibilities!

“We love to see people take up woodworking,” says Gerry Phelan, owner of Midwest Woodworkers. “It offers the satisfaction of making something with your hands and a limitless creative outlet. Plus, you can make Gerry Phelan Midwest Woodworkers practical or decorative items you can use or

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pass on to others. Resolving to learn a new skill or reviving a long-dormant hobby is an excellent way to start the New Year!

To encourage more people to get involved, we offer classes specifically aimed at helping new woodworkers get started. Classes cover everything from cabinet making to pen turning, carving and everything in between.

Our classes are small, 3-5 people at most and are very ‘hands-on.’ We start with safety and make sure everyone understands the equipment and the techniques. Most classes involve making a project you can take home with you. Not only do you go home with a project, you also develop life skills that you can use forever. We have had several individuals tell us they took our cabinet class and then built all-new cabinets for their home.”

He further advises, “When you are making resolutions, be sure to focus more than just self-denial. Instead choose self-improvement. Choosing to take up a new hobby or learning a new skill provides personal satisfaction, expands your horizons, and provides a limitless creative outlet.

Moreover, whatever you choose to pursue, whether you are experienced or just beginning, resolve to be safe in 2017! I’ve been a woodworker for thirty years and fortunately I‘m still counting to ten on my fingers.

I’ve never had a serious injury, but it’s not because I’m lucky. It’s because I have a healthy respect for my tools and I pay attention to safety.

By definition, New Year’s resolutions are a promise to do something in the future. Too often those promises are broken because we don’t take the first step before our resolve fades away. Don’t let your resolutions get away - take the first step right away. Make a commitment. Give us a call and sign up for a class. Jump into your new hobby so you can enjoy it all year.”

No matter what it is that you set out to do in the coming year, we wish you all success in your endeavors. However, if you’re working with the local experts, you won’t need to wish because you’ll be busy making it happen! Regardless, good luck and may you be at your very best in 2017!

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Business Planning As we approached the end of the year and now that we’re beginning anew this month, those of us in the business world share a common focus: planning for the year ahead. If you fall into the category of business owner or one of the many other professionals who in their roles, are responsible for all aspects of an organization’s operations, you likely already understand that planning is critical to your continued success.

However, with so many different areas to concentrate on, it first begs the question: Where do your priorities lie?

It can seem overwhelming to approach the decisions you’ll be making now that will shape your business in the future. By going through your business plan and seeing what needs the most attention this year, you can narrow down your planning efforts and then turn to the experts to help you put these plans in place. Here are just a few different areas that you may need to consider for 2017.

Developing a Business Plan For those who are embarking on a new business venture in 2017, putting together a business plan is the first item on the agenda. Having a documented plan in place is crucial, and if you’ve never done this before, enlisting the help of a professional is wise. A business plan, the foundation of everything you’ll do moving forward, is the best way to ensure you will remain on the right trajectory towards meeting your goals.

A well thought out, organized business plan with conservative revenue projections is great to have on-hand in the event you’ll be presenting to potential investors and helps the bank understand every detail of the new business.

Putting Together a Team of Advisors With so many bases to cover, it truly does take a village of professionals to help you see the big picture along with the little details. A team approach will also help in keeping you abreast of everything that’s going on in each industry that plays a part in the success of your business.

Take business finance for example. Key professionals that most business owners utilize to ensure that finances are in order include an accountant, tax preparer, insurance agent, payroll professional, benefits advisor, payment processor, financial planner and so on. As such, each of these individuals will be able to offer a different perspective in assisting you with evaluating your successes and shortcomings from 2016 in order to help you plan accordingly for the year to come. In the interest of efficiency, you might even opt to work with a firm that wears a few of these hats.

In addition to advisors in key areas on your business, a business coach can also be an invaluable part of the planning process overall. These professionals specialize in coming alongside business owners to provide an outsider perspective and guidance, among other things.

“At Achievement Unlimited, Inc., we follow a strategic planning process where we work with our clients to identify areas that will make the most impact to improve their organization,” explains Rose Mary Hefley, President of Achievement Unlimited, Inc. “This examines the critical aspects of the business to aid in the development of prioritized goals. We also work on an action plan that ensures objectives are met. Some of these objectives would be to: grow sales, improve profit margins, reduce operating cost, and produce a better product Rose Mary Hefley Achievement Unlimited, Inc. or service.

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Our wide range of product and service offerings are all tailored to our clients’ specific goals. Some examples of areas of expertise are Leadership, Management, and Sales Training; Manufacturing and Distribution Systems Integration, COO Services; Strategic and Business Planning. We make the biggest impact by working with clients to follow through on activities that will create a return on investment. We also bring another set of eyes to a challenge and can be objective when it comes to identifying solutions and finding creative ways to solve problems.

She also offers the following advice: “If you want your business to get better, you must get better. That means you need to invest in yourself and your leadership team to improve your communication, thinking, listening, problem-solving and team building skills. You must have a written plan to meet the objectives of the organization. Everyone needs to have goals and objectives they must meet and be trained on the skills they need to be successful. It is also important to create an environment whereby both the employee and the business are rewarded for their efforts.

From my extensive experience working closely with business owners, I’ve found that many overlook coming trends and fail to prepare for the changing marketplace. Another area of neglect is failing to develop upcoming leadership within the organization. Just because someone can sell or is a good widget maker does not mean they can run a department or a business without effective leadership and management skills. A lot of owners in today’s marketplace would like to retire but don’t have a leadership team in place that can effectively fill the void left by their departure. This creates a real problem, especially in family-owned businesses where there is an 80% failure rate when the second generation takes over and does not have the leadership ability to create revenue or manage people.

I’ve seen all types of businesses struggle because of lack of modern systems and management/supervisory skills. At Achievement Unlimited, Inc., we work with businesses to implement modern systems and to train their management teams on effective leadership techniques.

All successful sports teams have a coach who holds them accountable and picks them up when they fall down. Successful business executives work with executive coaches. We offer executive coaching and system changes to modernize your workplace and create a better work environment.”

Preparing for Transition As previously mentioned, this is something that will be critical to the continued success of your business down the line. Among the professionals you might want to consider bringing into the mix, and another example of a trusted business advisor, is a business broker. The buying and selling of businesses happens regularly, and as such, many people will be planning to do one of the two, whether it will be happening in a few months or in a few years. This can be a complicated matter, so it’s important to have the guidance in place so that you’re doing exactly what you need to do at the appropriate intervals so that you stay on the path to the ultimate goal.

“With respect to business planning, our expertise lies in helping our clients prepare for a transfer of ownership as well as planning accordingly for any period of transition,” says Jethro Hopkins, owner of No Coast Business Advisors. “Whether it be selling the business or passing the torch on to the next Jethro Hopkins generation, we join forces with our clients’ team No Coast Business Advisors

of accountants, financial advisors and lawyers to plan for the transition so everything goes as smoothly as possible.

If you are thinking about selling your business in the next couple of years, it’s crucial to focus on the financial records now. This alone will play a major role in the business’s value when it comes time to sell. It’s important to track all transactions, especially purchases, as a part of the profit and loss statements. Having a legitimate paper trail for all of the business’s finances can actually increase the value of the business because you have quantifiable proof to show potential buyers. Moreover, it is wise to begin paying yourself as an employee as opposed to taking your cut of the business’s profit. It’s all about strategizing to get the most for your business, so presenting the most accurate reports of overall revenue (and profit) of the company is critical.

It’s very hard to sell a business if the reported cash flow is under $100K, which is classified as a “microbusiness,” but those above that number seem to do quite well in the current market. If you need to get your business to that point in 12 months or less, you’ll need a somewhat aggressive, quickstart strategy in place. No Coast Business Advisors just began offering the NAABB Marketing Academy program, which I highly recommend as a cost-effective way to have access to local consulting services on a regular basis as well as a plan to follow backed by proven results from participants nationwide.

For those who may not be planning to sell in the near future, market valuations are still the most critical of our offerings to have done. This provides a benchmark of its value which can be referenced for all sorts of things, such as loans, future planning, partners, dividend payout estimates, and much more. We recommend that any business gets one done annually at the very least. The program that I just mentioned also has a second phase that helps businesses get to $1M annual profit, so if growth is in the plans, it can certainly help you get there too.”

Leveraging Technology In the vast tech space, there’s always something new being introduced that you can plan to use to your advantage. Looking into options for upgrading, whether it’s adding something new or a better, more advanced version of existing technology you’re already using, has become an integral part of a business’s planning process in modern times.

Infrastructure, internet speeds, networks, data storage, equipment, and software, the online landscape in general – it can seem as though all of these are in a constant state of change because for the most part, they are and that’s a good thing. There are exciting things coming to the Lincoln area to check out, and it also doesn’t hurt to have an expert come in and evaluate where you’re at currently so that they can make recommendations about key areas of improvement for the coming year.

Due to the fact that there’s so much out there to explore, targeting where the most potential for improvement lies is a great starting point. With more breakthrough technology being introduced than most of us who are busy running our businesses can keep up with, but at the same time, shouldn’t be without, along with budget constraints that prevent us from investing in it all (even though we might want to), it’s only wise to do so.

Joel Friesen, President at Five Nines, provides the following tips for what to assess now and plan for in the coming year: • Backups, both on-site and also off-site replication. “Everything else can be replaced, data cannot. About half of the companies we talk to are not able to verify that their data is backing up correctly, and most are still utilizing tape backups.”

• Budgeting for replacement equipment, and capturing licensing costs that are due (Ex. Joel Friesen Microsoft). “Most people believe that they can Five Nines run some of this hardware (servers, switches, etc.) until it is completely dead. They don’t usually understand the risk to their business continuity, data loss potential, and how long it takes to replace.”

• Spending significant time training your staff about security risks.

“Careless or uninformed employees that are not trained in security best practices (weak passwords, visiting unauthorized website, and clicking links in suspicious emails) are a high risk for a business.”

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He concludes, “Actually having a plan for IT is the first step, and we find some have not made it that far. We spend a considerable amount each year researching best practices, and we have experience managing hundreds of different environments. That gives us a much broader understanding of what does and does not work. We save businesses a lot of time, energy, and money as we apply that knowledge to help move their company forward.”

Doug Seaman, Project Support Specialist at Echo Systems, also provides insight as to what’s on the horizon for the coming year and on planning for the integration of sophisticated technology.

“According to a recent study by infoComm (the Audio-Visual industry’s trade organization), the top three technologies most likely to impact a business in 2017 are 1) Huddle Spaces, 2) Wireless AV Signal Transmission, and 3) Cloud Services.

Doug Seaman Huddle Spaces – A trend where people meet Echo Systems quickly on an ad-hoc basis, and need to collaborate around a small desk with a medium- to large-sized display.

There are now connectivity solutions for just this application.

Wireless AV Signal Distribution – There are now more reliable solutions to wirelessly connect a device to a display. (NOTE: Consumer-grade solutions do not provide reliable connectivity or sufficient security settings for a corporate network environment.)

Cloud-Based Conference Solutions – Vendors such as Polycom, Lifesize, and many others are migrating away from a hardware-only model to a hybrid hardware/software model for both audio and video conferencing.

In addition, Internet of Things (IoT) and Augmented or Virtual Reality (AR/VR) will begin to make inroads into the business environment. Each of these items will have impacts on workflow, communication, and operations, and will also influence culture.

JANUARY 2017 Strictly Business 39

Display technologies are also advancing; examples include see-through televisions, bendable curved displays for architectural solutions, very large screen sizes, outdoor video displays, and multi-screen video walls.

Echo Systems’ expertise is in design, systems integration, project management, and overall technology strategy. We can help you with all of these and more in the coming year.”

He also cautions, “We find that infrastructure is the number one thing that businesses overlook when it comes to planning for Audio-Visual solutions.

It could be as simple as forgetting about conduit under a meeting room table, or as complex as planning your network to be able to handle Audio and Video signal traffic.

I always think back to what a basketball coach of mine used to say: ‘Ducks on a pond, baby!’ He was referring to the old saying about a duck gliding along the water while its legs are madly churning underneath, and it applies here. The thing most people don’t realize about Audio-Visual is that there is a lot of thought behind the design of a well-executed AV strategy. From simple calculations about display size, sight lines for cameras, etc. to more complex issues like sending a video signal throughout a facility, speaker placement for optimal acoustics – a lot of thought goes into the end result. An AV integrator has the knowledge and skill to anticipate design factors that may affect architecture, lighting, and other aesthetic or functional aspects of your business.

When it comes to technology planning, bring in your technology partner as early as possible in your process. You’ll also want to bring in your facilities and IT staff as soon as possible to allow them to plan for the little details that can have a major downstream effect on your technology.

This improves communication, and leads to a better end result for all parties involved.”

In Case of Emergency In the event of an emergency, do you have plans in place? As far as execution, do your employees know what they are? Do they know at the very least where to find a fire extinguisher? Have your critical emergency systems and equipment been inspected at the recommended intervals?

A local provider of a wide variety of fire protection and life safety equipment, FireGuard also places a major emphasis on educating business owners about the necessary safety features that are not only required by law but a good idea to have present in your place of business.

OSHA 1910-157(g) states: Training and education (1) where the employer has provided portable Fire Extinguishers for employees in the workplace; the employer shall also provide an educational program to familiarize employees with the general principles of Fire Extinguisher use and the hazards involved with the incipient stage of firefighting.

According to Bob Sorensen, owner of FireGuard, “It is very important to conduct training in the workplace, not only because it is an OSHA requirement but also because it has the potential to save lives, protect assets, builds confidence, and promotes awareness.”

He further advises, “An inspection will uncover anything you may need to be up to code or compliant with the law, so that’s a good way to see where you’re at currently and what needs to be resolved now or looked into further down line. Some of the most common areas Bob Sorensen of concern for businesses include having the FireGuard proper fire extinguishers and their placement, exit and emergency lighting, and existing safety equipment and systems, such as your fire alarm and fire sprinkler systems. FireGuard eliminates the need to contact multiple companies by offering complete life safety solutions. We design, sell, install, inspect and service all types of fire protection and life safety equipment.”

Specifically regarding planning for the future of an organization as a whole, Sorensen notes, “You can never plan soon enough. I am transitioning FireGuard to my sons at the present time as I deem it a ‘legacy business.’

I want to keep the company moving forward in the manner which I started it from scratch. However, today I see a much different business climate.

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My two sons will need to surround themselves with key people. We all need to be reminded of the core values in our business and continue to improve and capitalize on the positives.”

Establishing a Presence in the Marketplace Last, but CERTAINLY not least, you’ll want to plan for how you’ll be marketing your business in 2017. This too will largely depend on your evaluation of the successes and shortcomings from the past year, goals for your business in the future, and your plans in other key areas. In this area, as with many of the others we’ve explored, no two business will have the same planning outcomes. As each business is a unique entity all its own, so is the plan that’s tailored to meet the strategic objectives laid out for branding and promotion across a calendar year. For some businesses, marketing efforts will be planned out a year or more in advance, while for others, decisions are actively made and new projects are embarked upon throughout the year, which still requires forethought and a timeline.

Depending on where you’re at in your business cycle and what your goals are, any business owner should consider their online presence when doing strategic planning for the coming year: Years ago, before the Internet was a thing, if you wanted the most business, you set up shop in a high visibility location. This included your office or place of business, the yellow pages, billboards, etc. Now that location is online. Companies that don’t want to face that fact and adapt are dead in the water – it’s not a matter of if, but when.

Tyler Horsley, Executive Director of Nuclear Networking, offers guidance on the up-andcoming phenomenon that’s digital marketing: “While you’ve probably heard the term ‘SEO’ thrown around, you might still be wondering what that actually means. My answer, in short, is that I’ve found it tends to mean something different to everyone. As such, we focus on educating our clients about what it means to us, and how we plan to achieve it for our clients. As certified Google partners, we focus on onsite SEO algorithmic compliance – How Tyler Horsley does Google see you? Is your site healthy? Is it Nuclear Networking loading fast? And so on. We’ve made a point to incorporate aspects of every version of what SEO is that we’ve come across thus far, addressing it from all angles online.

In fact, education is a key piece of what we do. It’s important to us that our clients are able to make educated and empowered decisions.

I often refer to the three things every business needs to address as the “three-legged stool”: Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Search Engine Marketing (SEM), and Local Citation Building and Optimization (Citations are core industry platforms that Google deems necessary for a strong foundation in SEO, local brand awareness, and function like microsites on each major platform). The union of the three is what will support your objectives for digital marketing, allowing you to succeed at capturing the attention of your target audience.

The majority of millennials are using the Internet exclusively to find services, that’s now a well-documented fact. Although in the Midwest, and Nebraska in particular, business remains very relationship and referral driven, you’re still missing a huge segment of the population, and therefore will have a significant missed opportunity cost, by neglecting your online presence. Being able to market effectively to this booming population will be critical to the success and longevity of businesses here in Nebraska.

Nuclear Networking began in the government sector, and then branched out to work with large, high-profile business clients nationwide, but we felt strongly that SMBs were the segment in the most need of our digital marketing services. We’re able to ‘bring a cannon to a stick fight’ when it comes to digital marketing for local businesses, bringing a level of expertise that can really make a difference where it’s needed most. At Nuclear Networking, we consider ourselves to be a business partner, not a third party contracting service. Our approach is to come alongside and educate through the entire process, to be a consultant, and to really help grow the business as a whole.

MATT SVOBODA Care Consultants for the Aging

LEAH DICKERSON Platteview Golf Club

ROBERT MEJIAS Liberty Tax Service/ M&M Insurance Associates

JETHRO HOPKINS

When you partner with No Coast Business Advisors...

• You work directly with the owners, Jethro and Jason.

• You receive individual focus.

• You develop a professional partnership.

LET’S SIT DOWN AND TALK ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS! 402-217-3252 | www.NoCoastBusinessAdvisers.com JASON WOLLEN

We pride ourselves on being very clear about what we can do and what we are going to do. A lot of times with other companies you’ll find in this space, the message is delivered as ‘Pay us X amount of dollars and we’ll increase your rank.’ Do you really know what you’re buying, though, or are you just relegated to ‘I hope it works, here’s my money?’

My job is to take my client’s/partner’s investment and multiply it through online and digital platforms. We create a customized competitive analysis that maps everything out – if you’re interested in competing in this space, here’s what your financial investment will be and the return you can expect. Most business decisions are made based on metrics and knowledge as opposed to what you hope to happen, and this is no different. We also customize three different strategies that you could go to market with as our recommended course of action moving forward.

This is all provided at no cost, as is a lot of the education we provide, mainly because we want to be clear about what a partnership would entail to find out if it will be a good fit for both parties. Check us out at nuclearnetworking.com to learn more, and feel free to contact us at hello@nuclearnetworking.com.

It’s very important to at the very least get educated on your options.

And to do that now, because although it’s not really affecting this market here as much as others across the U.S. at the moment, you can be sure it will hit here soon in a big wave and you’ll want to be the one who is prepared for that to happen.”

The topic of business planning is an enormous one and can include a number of different aspects, some of which are vitally important to your business and others that are not so critical but still be well worth exploring. The key is to focus on those areas that will have the most impact on your business’s success and growth over the next year and to partner with the professionals who can help you put the processes in place to move forward.

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Marcus Hellwege President

CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE!

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402-403-4334 SANDLER TRAINING

by Karl Schaphorst, President • www.karlschaphorst.sandler.com

Every Day Should Not Be New

George had been closely watching the way Meg went about her day for the past couple of weeks.

Why is it, he kept thinking to himself, that she does the same things the rest of us do, yet does so much better. We all follow up, yet she always closes more business. We all ask for referrals, yet she always gets more than anyone else.

“George,” said Meg, not two feet from where he was sitting, “What’s up?”

“What?” he responded.

“I feel like I’ve been under a microscope the past couple of weeks,” she stated with a smile.

“Well, I’ve been trying to figure out how you do it,” he said, waving his arm over the desk. “We all do the same things as you, follow up, referrals, and the rest, yet you do so much better. How?” “Tell you what, if I tell you, you have to buy me lunch whether you take my suggestion or not.”

“Deal. Now what’s the secret? Do you cast spells?”

“Worse. Wait a minute.” She walked across the office to her desk and returned with her ever-present spiral notebook. “This,” she said, “is my secret weapon.

This and one other thing.”

“What’s the one other thing?”

“Knowing that if I ever start thinking again that every day is a brand new day, I have to get out of sales.”

“That’s my favorite phrase; it keeps me going.”

“That was my problem when I first started. Every day I came to work, I started over. Back then I didn’t come to work carrying what I learned the day before with me. Now,” she said shaking the notebook, “I do, because I jot down what worked.”

“That’s it?” asked George.

“That’s it. Now I’ll prove to you it works. Tell me what you learned yesterday about sales.”

“Easy. Don’t give pricing too early.”

“You learned what not to do,” she said with a grin, “A negative.”

“Tell me anything you learned that’s positive in the past month . . . anything at all.”

George sat thinking for a few minutes before finally saying, “Strange, all I can remember are negatives.”

Meg remembers what works. George remembers what doesn’t work. Which works?

The story may sound like philosophical hairs are being split. One may be tempted to dismiss the story as just another parable about why one should think positive thoughts. But consider the point being made. If you can tell me all the things I shouldn’t do, in order to do something, does that mean I’ll know how to do it?

Try this little mental experiment. Think of all the things you shouldn’t do when walking across a busy intersection. If you spend more than ten seconds thinking, you could easily come up with four or five “don’ts.” Now think of the one positive thing you should do when walking across a busy intersection. “Pay attention to where the cars are at.”

Now, if your job was to walk across busy intersections, would it be easier to remember four or five don’ts, or one positive? Remembering what works is easier.

Sales is no different than walking across a busy intersection. If you remember what works from one day to the next, it’s easier to do the job.

So, pick a time in the next 24 hours when you are not at work. Sit down and jot down all of the positive sales “stuff” that you did that worked in the last 24 hours. Worked must be defined as something that resulted in a sale or resulted in a prospect moving toward a sale.

This simple task of actually writing down what worked is, initially, almost impossible to do. Why? You are conditioned to look at the negative. The sooner you force yourself to do this simple task on a daily basis, the sooner you will find yourself doing better as a salesperson. If you don’t write down what worked, you will not remember what worked.

Sandler Training is a global training organization with over three decades of experience and proven results. Sandler provides sales and management training and consulting services for small- to mediumsized businesses (SMBs) as well as corporate training for Fortune 1000 companies. For more information, please contact Karl Schaphorst at (402) 403-4334 or by email at kschaphorst@sandler.com. You can also follow his blog at karlschaphorst.sandler.com.

Supporting

Non-Profits In line with our mission and core values here at Strictly Business, we are always urging our readers to be cognizant of those with whom they do business. Atop of the list of items that should guide one’s decision is the emphasis a business places on giving back. We remain staunch advocates for the involvement of our business community with our non-profit community because these partnerships are at the heart of maintaining the quality of life we enjoy here in the Omaha Metro. With the rich diversity of non-profit organizations and the magnitude of our collective efforts, we’re able to successfully meet the spectrum of needs in our community together.

As a business that supports non-profit organizations, your actions speak volumes to the fact that you care about making a positive impact in the lives of your fellow neighbors. Make no mistake, people take notice. Word of mouth is a powerful tool for businesses, and goodwill gestures like supporting non-profit organizations convey that you are concerned with more than just your company’s interests. In leading by example and encouraging others within your business or sphere of influence to join you in your efforts, you are showing your colleagues and employees that you care and that they should too.

By contributing to a cause that truly helps others, and mobilizing efforts within your organization, you’ll find a feeling of satisfaction that’s rewarding beyond measure. Unfortunately it’s just not feasible to contribute to every charity, so you will likely be pulled in many directions when it comes to choosing which ones you want to support.

As the goal is to donate money, volunteer, and invest your resources

in the areas where they’ll do the most good, there’s more to it than simply selecting a cause you feel strongly about and writing a check.

Sadly, we’ve all seen the headlines about non-profits that have misused or misrepresented the funds they’ve been given. This ties up resources that could be put to better use by one of the many wonderful charitable organizations in the area that are making a sizeable impact for the better, both right here in our community and globally.

As such, by gaining a basic understanding of where resources are being allocated, you’ll easily be able to justify your contribution because it lines up with your beliefs and ethics. All non-profits are not created equal, so do your research! While raising awareness is incredibly important, actions often do speak louder than words. The work that each non-profit does, and in turn your contribution to their cause, should impact the community in a real and meaningful way.

We all have to make tough decisions as to where we spend our time and money, that’s just a fact of life. It is incredibly important to patronize businesses that make it a priority to give back to the community in which they do business. The many non-profit organizations here in the Omaha area that have made it their mission to meet critical needs locally are deserving of our support, and fortunately, it makes our heart swell with pride to see so many of our fellow local businesses doing just that.

We have compiled a list of excellent non-profits, all of which need and welcome your support, and encourage you to get involved with these organizations!

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Victory Riding Academy, Inc. (VRA) is a 501(c)(3) not-profit, community based organization located in Omaha. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for students with equine-facilitated activities, help students persevere, overcome and conquer any of life’s challenges and educate the community through horsemanship classes.

VRA provides training and instruction to develop competence and security.

We are funded 100% by donations, grants and the time our volunteers give. VRA utilizes the healing power of horses to enrich the lives of active duty Military, Veterans, Police, Fire, First Responders and their families by providing horseback riding and horsemanship activities. VRA offers therapeutic riding, education and horsemanship opportunities to the community.

Donations are always needed and appreciated to continue providing the life changing programs we offer.

For more information on how you can help please visit our website at www.victoryride.org or please email us at info@victoryride.org Established in 1972, Santa Monica has been providing long term residential services to thousands of chemically dependent women, partnering with them on their journey to recovery. The program relies on the disciplines of the twelve step program of Alcoholics Anonymous®, while incorporating mental health and trauma treatment along with life skills. Santa Monica provides food, shelter, rehabilitative counseling, job acquisition guidance, and re-socialization training. This year Santa Monica expanded services to include a step down level of care for the women, providing a more holistic continuum of care. These services will give the women more support as they transition back into the community.

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

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

Better Business Bureau® (BBB®) serving Nebraska, South Dakota, The Kansas Plains and Southwest Iowa is a private, non-profit organization established in 1912. Its mission is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust.

BBB accomplishes this by: • Setting standards for marketplace trust. • Encouraging and supporting best practices by engaging with and educating consumers and businesses. • Celebrating marketplace role models. • Calling out and addressing substandard marketplace behavior. • Creating a community of trustworthy businesses and charities.

BBB Accredited Businesses must meet BBB Standards for Trust. They have pledged to support the objectives and standards of fair advertising and ethical business practices.

Not all businesses qualify for BBB accreditation, so make sure to look for BBB’s seal that identifies the business as one that “Starts With Trust®”.

BBB’s headquarters is located in Omaha at 11811 P St and it has a branch office in Lincoln located at 300 N. 44th St #100.

For more information, please visit bbbinc.org.

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The STAR Project is a 501(c)3 organization based in Nebraska. Our Mission is to bring change to the lives of animals who are at risk for unnecessary euthanasia, have suffered abuse and neglect, deemed special needs, rapidly deteriorating in the shelter, or facing breed discrimination. The STAR Project will provide a home through our network of approved foster providers, and offer medical care and treatment until they find their forever home. We rescue animals nationwide, and provide support to the humans who make it possible.

Interested in learning more? Contact us at hello@thestarprojectinc. org or visit our site at www.thestarprojectinc.org.

Project Harmony grew out of the vision of several Omaha community professionals and advocates to create a better system of protection for abused and neglected children.

Today, Project Harmony is one of the largest Child Advocacy Centers in the nation. This is not due to an overwhelming volume of child abuse, but due to the level of collaboration that comes together to address the issue – collectively.

The Child Advocacy Center model has been replicated to impact child abuse as a best practice community response. When Project Harmony was established in 1996, there were about 35 Centers operating across the United States. Today there are more than 850 – serving a collective 350,000 children each year.

With incredible support of the Omaha community, now more than 200 professionals are co-located under the Project Harmony roof, and are working together to provide abused children the best possible community response. This collaborative approach strives to ensure that children are not further victimized by the systems intended to protect them.

Project Harmony is committed to a vision with a focus on one goal: ending the cycle of child abuse and neglect. Together, we can end child abuse.

To find out more about Project Harmony, visit www. projectharmony.com or call (402) 595-1326.

The Hope Center for Kids strives to faithfully inspire youth and children through education, employability, collaboration and faith. Opened in North Omaha in 1998, The Hope is home to multiple learning spaces, including The Hope Employment Academy, a commercial kitchen and cafeteria, and The Hope Skate roller rink. The Hope Center for Kids now serves over 2,700 youth, children and families through its programs and community events.

The Hope serves youth ages 5-19 by offering strengths-based educational support and a safe place to play and grow, both educationally and spiritually. Youth, grades 10-12, also have the opportunity to apply and interview for The Hope Employment Academy, a two-year program that prepares youth for successful employment.

In 2014, The Hope opened the doors of its second location in Fremont, Nebraska, which currently serves over 100 youth members each day.

The Hope – Omaha, 2200 North 20th Street, Omaha, NE 68110.

The Hope – Fremont, 555 West 23 Street, Fremont, NE 68025.

To find out more about The Hope Center for Kids including information about volunteering, visit www. hopecenterforkids.com or call (402) 341-4673.

The Alzheimer’s Association® is the world’s l e a d i n g voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research.

For an estimated 33,000 Nebraskans, Alzheimer’s disease is the ultimate thief — of their identity and precious memories. Their caregivers and loved ones are left feeling alone and heartbroken.

The Alzheimer’s Association provides education and support to those who face dementia every day. On a national level, the Association advances critical research toward methods of treatment, prevention and, ultimately, a cure.

Together, we can end Alzheimer’s disease, the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death.

Angels Among Us – Helping Families Battling Pediatric Cancer Angels Among Us is a 501 (c) (3) organization established in 2006 to financially assist families livingin or being treated-in Nebraska who are battling a pediatric cancer diagnosis. In our ten-year history, we have helped over 305 families with over $1.3 million in support. Families are identified by the social work offices of Nebraska Medicine and Children’s Hospital & Medical Center. Angels Among Us supports families with up to $500 per month with a cap of $6,000.

Through our many events, you can help families living the cancer nightmare right here in our community. Mark your calendar for the 2017 Evening Among Angels Gala to be held on August 26, 2017 at the Hilton Hotel, downtown Omaha.

To learn more about Angels Among Us and our many events, please call our office at (402) 9340999 or visit www.myangelsamongus.org.

To learn more, find help or get involved -- visit www.alz.org or call (800) 272-3900.

Kids Can Community Center’s mission is to educate, engage, and inspire children through early childhood care and outof-school experiences. Kids Can serves children 18-months to 13 years old. We offer a variety of programs including: early childhood education, before- and after-school programs, summer and non-school day programs, tutoring, and mentoring. Kids Can utilizes the Creative Curriculum and Handwriting Without Tears activities for our youngest students with the goal of ensuring all students are prepared to enter Kindergarten.

School-age children participate in the STEMsmart Academy which focuses on science, technology, engineering, math, strength, music, art, reading and tutoring supporting well rounded children.

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

For more information about Kids Can! Community Center visit KidsCanOmaha.org, call (402) 7316988 or email jgillman@kidscanomaha.org.

Kicks for a Cure is gearing up for the twelfth annual soccer exhibition weekend being held April 21-22, 2017 with the continued theme: Two teams…

One goal…Kicking cancer. The event features a youth soccer clinic, a kickoff banquet at Embassy Suites La Vista, and an exciting day of soccer at Creighton’s Morrison Stadium and UNO’s Caniglia Field. In addition to collegiate women’s and men’s matchups between Creighton and UNO, high school teams from Westside, Marian, Elkhorn South, Creighton Prep, Skutt, Columbus Scotus, Millard West and Central will participate this year. Thanks to generous donors and sponsors, admission to all of the games is free. More than 2,200 people attended the weekend’s events last year.

Gary and Kathy Gates will serve as this year’s Honorary Chairs. Event proceeds fund research at UNMC Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center and Creighton Hereditary Cancer Center, while promoting active, healthy lifestyles. Over the past eleven years, more than $2.4 million has been raised to fund local cancer research.

For more information visit www.kicksforacure.org or contact Stacie Sarasio at stacie@kicksforacure.org or (402) 210-9446.

Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) is a national construction industry trade association representing nearly 21,000 chapter members. Founded on the merit shop philosophy, ABC and its 70 chapters help members develop people, win work and deliver that work safely, ethically, profitably and for the betterment of the communities in which ABC and its members work. The Cornhusker Chapter has offices in both Lincoln and Omaha, where we do apprenticeship training for the trades. Partnerships with VR, Avenue Scholars and ReConnect have trained individuals in the trades. Contact Theresa at (402) 344-4258 to inquire about training opportunities for your company, organization or students. Each person that enters the industry is on the path to earning a competitive salary, learning a new skill and building America with their own hands.

To become a member of ABC, contact Anne at annek@abcnebraska.org or (402) 477-4451. Visit our website at www.abcnebraska.org.

The Cross Training Center exemplifies the message, “If you give a man a fish, you feed him for a day but if you teach him how to fish, you feed him for a lifetime.” We empower and equip undereducated and economically disadvantaged men and women through character development, vocational training and real hands-on work experience.

Our students have experienced setbacks in life due to incarceration, homelessness, mental health disorders, human trafficking, challenging circumstances and generational poverty. They gain skills, knowledge and hands-on work experience at our center, where we serve the public through various operations including: • • • • •

Electronics Recycling Computer and Electronics Retail Store Computer Refurbishing and Repair Automotive Maintenance and Repair Services Banquet Facility and Food Services

Cross Training Center’s mission is to provide Solutions to Poverty through Work.

Contact Brenda Banks at (402) 590-2100, via email at brenda@ crosstc.com, or visit www.crosstc.com for more information.

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For over 16 years, Domesti-PUPS has been supporting people in our local, regional and national communities through the assistance of animals. From therapy dogs in the classroom motivating children to excel in their learning environment, to pet therapy visitations in nursing homes, hospitals, and assisted living centers, our pet therapy teams bring a bit of brightness through their furry encounters. The Adoptables program provides rescue dogs with obedience training and placement in their forever homes. Our service dog teams provide increased independence when paired with a disabled partner. These highly skilled canines can turn on lights, provide balance and mobility, retrieve dropped items, bring a bottle of water from a refrigerator, respond to medical emergencies and open doors both literally and figuratively. Some even provide life-saving measures for their disabled partner.

Community Health Charities of Nebraska is a fundraising family of 19 Nebraskabased affiliates of nationally recognized health charities dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by a chronic health condition. CHC-NE raises vital funds through workplace giving campaigns, corporate matching funds, individual gifts and foundation contributions to benefit these health charities. In Omaha, we are proud to partner with United Way of the Midlands, as we know working together makes our community stronger.

For more information about Domesti-PUPS, visit www.domesti-pups.org.

Omaha Office: 212 S. 74th St., Suite 205 | (402) 614-8500 www.chcne.org | www.facebook.com/CHCNebraska

T h e M e t ro A r e a Yo u t h Foundation (MAYF) was formed in 2006 by a group of Omaha area Optimist Club members who wanted to do more for families and children experiencing cancer. This allvolunteer group recognized that many organizations have been formed to help fight cancer, but there were not many resources available to the families who were in the middle of the fight. The goal is to allow the families to focus on the children not the money they owe by providing a short term financial bridge. Many of these families were already struggling financially; a cancer diagnosis can often mean that only one parent can continue to work, adding to the burden. MAYF has been able to provide over 400 families a chance to keep the water and power on, rent to stay in their apartment, a mortgage payment to keep their home and a chance to keep life as stable and normal as possible.

For more information about how you can get involved or donate to MAYF’s Childhood Cancer Campaign, visit SummerBashforCCC. org or please call (402) 740-5158 or email SummerBash@cox.net.

Children’s Scholarship Fund of Omaha (CSF) believes that all families, regardless of income, should be able to choose the best educational setting for their children.

CSF provides tuition assistance scholarships so children from low-income families can access the private or parochial K-8 education of their choice. CSF is destination neutral and has no religious affiliation—children attend approximately 80 different schools across Omaha and northeast Nebraska. A crucial piece of the CSF program is the commitment it requires from families. Each CSF family must contribute $500 toward their children’s education and their children must achieve a 90% attendance rate.

Since 1999, more than 31,000 scholarships have been awarded and valued $31 million dollars.

CSF Omaha relies solely upon donations to provide scholarships. If you or your company would like to make a donation or receive more information, please contact the CSF office.

Contact information: Mary Boyle, Annual Giving Manager mary. boyle@csfomaha.org – (402) 819-4990 – www.csfomaha.org 46

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Dollars raised each year help our charities provide support for those with chronic health conditions as well as family members, friends and co-workers affected by chronic illness. They provide programs and services, education and advocacy and funding for vital medical research to help discover breakthrough treatments and the hope of a cure. Thank you for giving the gift of hope through your support.

It started with one home. The Reverend Charles and Alberta Danner lovingly opened their doors and hearts to a homeless child in need. As the number of vulnerable kids in their home grew, so did their needs. But the Lincoln community was there to wrap the couple with support, helping to purchase property and construct the CEDARS Home for Children.

Seventy years later, providing refuge for children and youth who have no other safe place to spend the night is the heart of CEDARS mission, pursued through comprehensive efforts to help kids in crisis and build strong families.

On CEDARS seventieth anniversary, President James Blue points out, this couldn’t be done without continued community support. “Our donors make our organization strong for the children. Together, we are helping our most vulnerable children find safety, stability and permanent families.”

For more information or to donate, call (402) 434KIDS (5437) or visit www.cedarskids.org.

FES (http://public.fes. org/) is foundation that supports other nonprofit organizations so they can fulfill their missions. We provide services such as: branding, promotion, IT security, website design and hosting, and network operations. Many nonprofit organizations do not have the staff or budget or expertise to effectively manage these services for themselves. FES exists to fill that void and provide these services at a reasonable cost so nonprofits can stay focused on their noble missions.

FES employs over 60 people in Lincoln, Nebraska who work with large and small nonprofit organizations and communities. FES also works regularly with EducationQuest Foundation, SOCS websites, and the National Student Loan Program (NSLP) to provide services for marketing, IT security, and network operations.

FES is located at 1300 O Street in Lincoln, Nebraska. Inquiries can be made directly to Dan Kunzman at (402) 479-6663 dank@fes.org

The American Heart Association and American Stroke Association is devoted to saving people from two of our nation’s top killers heart disease (No. 1) and stroke (No. 5).

Powered by millions of volunteers nationwide, the Association’s goal is to improve the cardiovascular health of Americans by 20 percent by 2020, while reducing deaths from heart disease and stroke by 20 percent. Currently, one person dies every 40 seconds from heart disease and stroke. Through events right here in Omaha like the Heart Walk, Go Red for Women Expo and Heart Ball, that startling statistic can change.

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

Mission: “To improve the quality of life by caring for the body and mind.”

Jennie Edmundson Foundation is the fund raising arm of Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital. By engaging philanthropic leaders, we are able to help make certain that the equipment, facilities, programs, services and educational initiatives at MJE continue to meet community needs.

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

These funds go to help our Charitable Patient Care Fund, Breast Health Center, Medi-Bus Transportation and Scholarship Funds, to name a few.

Generous contributions provide education, care and services to many who may not otherwise have access to healthcare services. Individual or Planned gifts, Memorials or becoming an event or corporate sponsor are also a few ways to help.

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

To find out more about the JE Foundation and how you can get involved call (712) 396-6040 or visit our website: www.jehfoundation.org O n e Wo r l d b e l i e v e s t h a t everyone deserves access to quality healthcare in a safe, welcoming environment. That’s why we provide a vast range of comprehensive services including: Adult Medicine • Pediatric Care • Prenatal Care • Women’s Healthcare • Behavioral Health • Dental • Pharmacy • Support Services OneWorld maintains an open-door policy, providing treatment regardless of an individual’s income, insurance status, race, sex, disability, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identify, immigration status or ability to pay. In 2015, OneWorld care for 35,557 patients during more than 145,000 visits and is ranked in the top 2% of the nation for patient outcomes.

Our Mission: OneWorld Community Health Centers, Inc., in partnership with the community, provides culturally respectful, quality health care with special attention to the underserved.

Our Vision: To become an innovative leader in health care, empowering individuals and creating healthier communities.

Follow what’s new at: facebook.com/oneworldchc or twitter.com/ OneWorldCHC. For more information visit www.oneworldomaha.org

For more than 140 years, Heartland Family Service has been the area leader in creating the path to a better tomorrow for children and families. Each year, we serve over 30,000 individuals from more than 15 locations in east central Nebraska and southwest Iowa through three program areas: Child & Family, Counseling & Prevention, and Housing & Financial Stability. With over 50 programs, we are able to craft an integrated, multi-service approach to guide clients toward safety, well-being, and, ultimately, self-sufficiency.

When life improves for one of us, life improves for all of us. We all matter.

To support our mission of strengthening individuals and families in our community through education, counseling, and support services, text “HFS” to 72727, visit HeartlandFamilyService. org, or contact Chief Development Officer Donna Dostal at (402) 552-7443 or DDostal@HeartlandFamilyService.org.

Family Housing Advisory Ser vices (FHAS) helps families living at or near poverty improve their housing, finances and quality of life. FHAS offers a comprehensive menu of cohesive services to address poverty and provide tools for success. FHAS prevents homelessness, educates homeowners, provides foreclosure prevention options, develops financially-wise consumers (including youth transitioning out of foster care), offers affordable mortgage lending options, eliminates housing discrimination, and reduces poverty through access to tax credits.

FHAS serves about 10,000 individuals and families annually.

Families learn how to budget, save, avoid eviction or foreclosure; pursue homeownership, post-secondary education or microbusiness enterprise; exercise their fair housing rights, and access income tax credits.

For more information about Family Housing Advisory Services, Inc. (FHAS) please visit: www.fhasinc.org or call (402) 934-7921.

Every year, Greater Omaha SCORE volunteers help entrepreneurs start small businesses and achieve new levels of success in their existing businesses. Volunteering at SCORE is a way for entrepreneurs and business owners to give back to the community, connect with fellow business owners, and pass on their knowledge and expertise to the next generation of entrepreneurs.

The Greater Omaha SCORE Chapter is a resource partner with the Small Business Administration and with the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce through its “Thrive” initiative for Greater Omaha small businesses.

SCORE volunteers provide confidential business mentoring services. We lead seminars and workshops to help small business owners meet their goals and achieve success. Whether you own your own small business, are working or retired and have a sincere commitment for helping small businesses, there is a place for you as a SCORE volunteer.

We are making a difference by helping new businesses be successful and we want to “help make dreams come true.”

If you need help in starting a business, moving your existing business forward, or you wish to volunteer with us, please contact the Greater Omaha SCORE at (402) 221-3606 or e-mail score@scoreomaha.org. You can also visit our website at www.omaha.score.org.

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Help save lives.

Donate Blood.

“I’ve never been asked.”

That’s the number one reason why people don’t donate blood. Today, the Nebraska Community Blood Bank is asking you to donate blood to help save lives. Every 2 seconds someone needs blood. Only volunteer blood donors can help ensure blood is available for patients in area hospitals.

Nebraska Community Blood Bank has been connecting people who need life-saving blood with generous volunteer donors since 1968.

We provide life-saving blood to healthcare facilities in six counties throughout southeast Nebraska, including Bryan Health, Lincoln Surgical Hospital, and Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital.

Visit NCBB.ORG to learn more about hosting a blood drive or to sign up to donate blood at a donor center or blood drive near you. Make a date to help save lives.

At Omaha Home for Boys we provide care and support for at-risk youth ages 14-24 as part of our mission of supporting and strengthening youth, young adults and families.

A pillar in the Omaha community for 96 years, Omaha Home for Boys is committed to providing services to young men and women through family-style, community-based programs.

Omaha Home for Boys helps youth become successful, productive and independent adults who contribute positively to and responsibly in their community through three main programs: Inspiration Hill Residential Care, Jacobs’ Place Transitional Living and Branching Out Independent Living. As we approach our 100th anniversary, the Home will continue to adapt and evolve to meet the needs of children and families throughout the region.

For more information about Omaha Home for Boys or to invest in the youth we serve with your gift, please visit our website at OmahaHomeForBoys.org.

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

MCF has played an integral part in managing three Affiliated Funds: Gretna Community Foundation, Bellevue Community Foundation and Springfield Community Foundation. These Affiliated Funds have worked hard in their own communities raising awareness and building partnerships to secure a strong Foundation in their respective city.

MCF manages more than 90 charitable funds that serve an array of needs. This past fiscal year, more than $832,000 has been distributed into the community through these charitable funds, MCF grants and discretionary gifts in the areas of health care, arts, culture, community, economic development, education and human services.

MCF can provide you with a simple, powerful and highly personal approach to giving through a variety of charitable gifting vehicles.

We hold ourselves to high standards, have strong integrity and most importantly work to make a difference in your local community. The time is NOW to create a charitable fund to benefit your personal interests.

Designated Funds • Donor Advised Funds • Field of Interest Funds • Scholarship Funds To learn more, visit www.midlandscommunity. org or call (402) 991-8027.

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The mission of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is to cure cystic fibrosis and to provide all people with the disease the opportunity to lead full, productive lives by funding research and drug development, promoting individualized treatment, and ensuring access to highquality specialized care.

In Nebraska, patient families, board members and volunteers join together to raise more than $1 million annually to accomplish this goal. The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has made unbelievable progress since its inception in the 50’s and aided in the development of the first FDA approved drug to treat the defect in a genetic disease in ’12.

Need: You—join our team to make CF stand for ‘Cure Found.’

For more information about the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation contact us at: Nebraska@cff.org or (402) 330-6164 or visit our website at www.cff.org.

The Nebraska Sports Council is a nonprofit organization that provides quality competition for athletes of all ages and abilities and promotes healthy and active lifestyle choices. Major programs include the NE 150 Wellness Challenge which encourages all Nebraskans to get out and be active by participating in any physical activity, and the Cornhusker State Games, a 60+-sport Olympic-style athletic festival which attracts an average of 12,000 athletes to Lincoln/Omaha each July. Other events like the annual Pumpkin Run and Mud Run round out a full-year of fun and healthy activity offerings. 2017 program dates include the NE 150 Wellness Challenge, Jan. 1 – Dec. 31; Cornhusker State Games, July 21-30; Mud Run, Aug. 26 and Pumpkin Run, Oct. 7.

Nebraska Sports Council programs and events require more than 3,500 volunteers and financial backing from more than 300 businesses annually.

Those interested in supporting or participating in the Nebraska Sports Council can learn more at NebraskaSportsCouncil.com or visit us in person at 4903 N. 57th St. in Lincoln or by phone at (402) 471-2544.

Midlands Latino Community Development Corporation (MLCDC) provides Latinos opportunities to generate economic growth and develop a sustainable future. Programs focus on the empowerment and education of the Latino community.

MCLDC provides opportunities to entrepreneurs through Micro-Business and Micro-lending programs. MLCDC direct lending program will offer loans up to $50,000 below market interest rates once it receives the Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) certification in July.

MLCDC recently earned an $800,000 grant from the Community of Economic Development – Healthy Food Financing Initiative (CED-HFFI) by the Office of Community Services of the Health and Human Services.

MLCDC plans to revitalize South Omaha and create as many as 46 jobs.

Grant funds will be used to develop Las Americas Kitchen Express into a fully equipped, commercially licensed kitchen for use by startups or expanding food production businesses, and will invest in two manufacturing companies.

Please visit midlandslatinocdc.org for more information.

Open Door Mission is a Gospel Rescue Mission founded in 1954 committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness and poverty.

Each day, Open Door Mission’s campus offers 816 safe, shelter beds to homeless men, women and children, serves over 2,000 nutritious meals and provides homeless preventive measures to more than 275 people living in poverty.

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

Nebraska Community Foundation is a statewide movement using philanthropy as a tool to build stronger, more prosperous communities. NCF is a partner for meeting your charitable goals no matter where you live. It’s the way to give back to your hometown.

Thanks to generous donors, in just the last five years more than $125 million has been reinvested in our schools, hospitals, community centers, libraries, fire and rescue units, parks and recreation, youth programs and our natural environment. Thousands of citizens have enjoyed the arts, earned scholarships and received specialized training to grow local economies in Nebraska communities.

NCF is a charitable giving resource for all Nebraskans, offering donor-advised funds, designated funds, field of interest funds and life income funds which provide many tax benefits. Gifts to your hometown can be made using cash, securities, real estate, insurance, ag commodities, retirement plans, bequests and other assets.

Visit NebraskaHometown.org, call (402) 323-7330 or email info@nebcommfound.org for more information.

Outlook Nebraska is a nonprofit organization empowering anyone in the community facing vision loss to gain confidence in their capabilities and achieve their life goals.

Our mission is to positively impact everyone who is blind and visually impaired through employment, workplace training, and recreational and cultural opportunities. Our organization empowers the blind and visually impaired to be independent, confident and active, contributing members of society.

We provide free adaptive technology training to any members of the community facing vision loss and collaborate with other organizations to provide recreational and cultural activities for the blind. Through community education, Outlook Nebraska increases awareness of the capabilities of the blind and visually impaired and aims to help answer the call for social responsibility among citizens and business leaders.

Nearly 60 percent of ONI’s workforce is legally blind and utilizes an array of innovative low vision technologies. Many work on the production floor of ONI’s growing tissue-converting facility, operating machines and packing a commercial line of recycled fiber tissue products. Others work in administrative departments such as sales, accounting and education and training.

Outlook Nebraska, Inc. is the only agency of its kind in a seven-state area.

Our purpose is to positively change people’s attitudes about blindness.

For more information about ONI, visit outlooknebraska.org.

The mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha (RMHC) is to create and operate programs that directly improve the health and wellbeing of children.

For families whose children come to Omaha for medical treatments, we provide a home away from home, including warm beds, hot showers, home-cooked meals, laundry facilities, family-friendly kitchens, playrooms, and a playground. Additionally, we have a built-in support system where families are able to connect with each other, forming an interdependent network of resources and collaboration. When families stay with us, they become a part of the RMHC in Omaha family, with a community of supporters willing to rally around them, so they can fight and heal together.

The cost to provide our services is approximately $120 per night, per family, and no family is ever turned away if they are unable to pay the $15 suggested donation.

For more information, visit www.rmhcomaha.org.

In April, Child Saving Institute will celebrate its 125th year of ser ving children and families in the greater Omaha area. Child Saving Institute’s primary focus has always been children’s safety and well-being. Always an innovative leader in children’s services, our programs include an emergency shelter for youth whose families are in crisis, quality early childhood education, consultation services for low-income child care centers, foster care, therapy, pregnancy counseling, in-home services for struggling families, independent living skills education for youth aging out of the foster care system, and older child adoption.

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

For more information, visit childsaving.org or call (402) 553-6000.

The Merrymakers Association began providing professional entertainment to area senior homes in 1986. We are celebrating 30 years serving our greatest generation throughout Nebraska and Iowa.

Merrymakers’ program is a unique service serving 136 care facilities.

This includes assisted and long-term living facilities, senior apartments, hospice and senior centers. These programs are scheduled once a month among 20 of our contracted professional musicians to provide live, onsite entertainment to all of these residents, including those with Alzheimer’s and who are in memory care.

Merrymakers performances inspire fond memories, smiles, clapping, singing along and even dancing. The music is geared to the seniors’ favorites.

Merrymakers is 100% supported through donations, grant funding, our summer “Friend-raiser” – Songs & Suds and our signature Toast event in November of each year.

For additional information, visit www.merrymakers. org or call (402) 697-0205. Any size donations are greatly appreciated and acknowledged.

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Radio Talking Book Service (RTBS) serves the state of Nebraska with a mission to provide human-voiced print information to individuals who have visual or physical disabilities which prevent them from reading printed material. Our key programs are the Radio Talking Book Network and Listening Link. The Radio Talking Book Network, founded in 1974, is Nebraska’s only radio reading service. RTBN provides access to 11 newspapers and over 70 magazines.

We are blessed with 100 volunteer readers, whose voices are broadcast throughout Nebraska via RTBN’s radio signal or our internet stream on special radios provided at no cost to our listeners. The Listening Link program assists blind, visually impaired, and learning disabled students in eliminating educational barriers they face by providing recordings of textbooks and course material required for degree completion.

Please contact RTBS at (402) 572-3003 for more information or visit rtbs.org to apply for a radio, volunteer, donate, or listen live.

“Touching Lives…Making a Difference” Assistance League® of Omaha (ALO) is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit service organization whose members identify, develop, implement, and fund ongoing philanthropic programs to serve specific needs of local children and adults in the Greater Omaha area. Signature programs include: Operation School Bell®, offering school children in need the opportunity to shop for new school clothes; Operation Recovery, providing support to women recovering from chemical addiction; ACT/PSAT Review Sessions, preparing students for college entrance examinations; Assault Survivor Kits®, supplying clothing and hygiene items to assault survivors; Operation Teen Parent, encouraging teen parents to complete their educations and read to their children; and Operation Bear Hug, furnishing stuffed bears to children in crisis situations.

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

Fundraising projects include a thrift shop at 36th & Leavenworth and the annual Christmas Caravan tour of homes. Donations and grants are needed. Serving Omaha since 1974, the organization returns 100% of proceeds raised to the community.

Call (402) 342-4288 or visit www.alomaha. org for more information.

Nebraska ranks 3rd in diagnosed childhood cancer cases in the United States, but only 4% of all the federallyfunded National Cancer Institute’s research budget is dedicated to childhood cancer. This is the reason that Sammy’s Superheroes Foundation exists. Since 2013, Sammy’s has giving away over $300,000 in grants to researcher and doctors who are performing life-saving research. Our goal is to search out and identify doctors who are looking for modern, cutting-edge treatments that take into account the side-effects treatments can have on the delicate development of children. We want to be a catalyst in changing the fact that 1 in 4 children will lose their battle to cancer within the first 5 years of diagnosis. Along with funding research, Sammy’s also is the sole sponsor of all the oncology blankets for Binkeez for Comfort. These blankets are specially made, packaged and approved to be giving to extremely sick kids in oncology units across the country.

Awareness is another area where Sammy’s has continued to grow. Being a resource for families going through the same thing that our own Sammy’s did is important. We want to be the shoulder to lean on for those families.

Through our website and social platforms like our Legion of Hope group on Facebook, we want to be there to help families through tough times.

For more information you can contact Jeremy Stanislav, Executive Director at jstanislav@sammyssuperheroes.org or (402) 560-1578.

Grief’s Journey (formerly Ted E. Bear Hollow) exists so that no one has to walk their grief journey alone.

Since 2001, the agency has provided a welcoming, safe place for grieving children, teens, and adults to offer each other hope and support.

Research indicates that unresolved grief correlates to issues such as poor school performance and emotional and behavioral concerns, whereas healthy coping leads to long-term successes for children, families, and communities. Carefully measured outcomes indicate that the programs of Grief’s Journey effectively move young people and their caregivers to health and resilience. As the region’s cornerstone for grief support, Grief’s Journey provides free peer support groups and camps as well as professional training, education, and consultation throughout Nebraska and Iowa.

The agency relies on charitable contributions, special event income, and volunteerism to support its free programs. Together, hope grows.

For more information about Grief’s Journey please visit www.griefsjourney.org or call (402) 502-2773.

DON’T MISS OUT! This is an excellent apportunity for your non-profit to gain exposure among our readers, as well as for our readers to familiarize themselves with the needs of various organizations and the valuable work that is going on in our community.

If you are a local non-profit organization that is interested in participating in the next SUPPORTING NON-PROFITS feature in Strictly Business, please call (402) 466-3330 or email Office@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com today!

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Do the Health Care Reform requirements and the 1094/1095 reporting requirments leave you dizzy?

Let us plant your feet on solid ground and do the work for you.

8204 South 109th Street • LaVista, NE 68128 (402) 592- 7777 / Phone • (402) 592-1924/ Fax www.benefitprofessionals.net

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ARE YOU READY TO START SOMETHING? START TURNING IDEAS INTO ACTION

POWERLUNCH EXECUTIVE EDUCATION EVENTS HOSTED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA–LINCOLN

$60 per Power Lunch event, lunch and parking included Leveraging Your Strengths for Leading Teams February 1 | 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Noah’s Event Venue 17121 Marcy St., Omaha Led by Mark Pogue

Strategies for Growing into New Markets February 15 | 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Noah’s Event Venue 17121 Marcy St., Omaha Led by Dr. Amit Saini

Understanding the Psychology of Change

Business is War: Management Lessons from the Military

February 22 | 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

March 1 | 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Wilderness Ridge Golf Club, 1800 Wilderness Woods, Lincoln Led by Dr. Tammy Beck

Wilderness Ridge Golf Club, 1800 Wilderness Woods, Lincoln Led by Rik Barrera

UPCOMING EXECUTIVE CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS

The Modern-Day Sales Manager Executive Certificate

Strategic Growth and Marketing Executive Certificate

February 8-10 | 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Noah’s Event Venue, 17121 Marcy St., Omaha

March 15-17| 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Nebraska Innovation Campus, 2021 Transformation Dr., Lincoln

» Led by Dr. Ravi Sohi and Laura McLeod » Gain insight on leading sales teams, understand your market and how customers buy, explore motivation and incentive techniques for your salesforce and learn how to drive and track performance

REGISTER TODAY 52

» Led by Dr. Amit Saini and Dr. Ravi Sohi » Learn how to develop new market opportunities while cultivating growth in existing markets, gain insight on customer needs and segmenting markets, and explore how to assess and manage competition

cba.unl.edu/execeducation

UNL does not discriminate Strictly Business JANUARY 2017based on any protected status. Please see go.unl.edu/nondiscrimination.