Strictly Business Omaha March 2017

STRICTLYBUSINESSOMAHA.COM

OMAHA • MARCH 2017

TM

Building Relationships • Workplace Wellness • Education • Commercial Construction • Joining Organizations Client Spotlight • A United Automatic Doors & Glass

RIVER CITY SIX

In This Issue

through Craftsmanship

TYLER HORSLEY Nuclear Networking

THERON AHLMAN CarePatrol

MICHAEL ROBINSON

ROSS JONES

BRIAN PICKERING

ROB SORENSEN

Just Good Meat

Notre Dame Housing

Madonna FireGuard MARCH 2017 Strictly Business

1

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MARCH 2017 Strictly Business

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FOCUSING ON YOUR BRAND

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

Great Brands Compete On Value, Not On Price Take a moment to consider this statement: “Great brands don’t compete on price alone.” If you are an entrepreneur or in a position where you’re responsible for the long-term success of a business, let that sink in, because it will ultimately determine how you fare with this task.

In today’s increasingly diverse yet still often saturated marketplace, the chief goal is to be viewed as a brand, not a commodity. Time and time again consumers have demonstrated that they will happily pay more for a brand that delivers value and with which they share a connection – it’s a welldocumented phenomenon that’s been motivating purchases way before our time. As far as future projections, there continues to be an overwhelming amount of compelling data released confirming a brand’s potential to significantly influence consumer behavior.

Don’t get me wrong, it is important to stay priced competitively and to explore all of the different avenues that might positively impact sales and revenue. However, if price is the only distinguishing characteristic that would make a person choose you, you’ve fallen into the commodity trap - and sadly, you’re not alone. When you are focused on price as your competitive advantage, cost cutting is your primary tool. This can easily turn into a fixation that’s unhealthy for you and your business. It keeps you stuck in place with limited options, instead of being able to generate the numbers that will afford you a healthy margin to take risks and invest in areas of your business that will allow you to grow and improve over time.

While discounting strategies might provide a moderate boost in the numbers of customers served or units sold, reducing prices may have a devastating effect on profit margins. If you can’t afford to keep the doors open, it doesn’t matter how many people want to go through them. To make things even worse, once you devalue your offerings it becomes the expectation moving forward. When you put a number out in front of everything else, it develops into

the most prominent facet of your identity and thus, others will view your business as one that lacks dimension and substance.

To compound things, it’s a tactic that doesn’t encourage customer loyalty. Rather, it attracts those who may be just fine with doing business with you for the time being, but will just as easily move on to the lowest number without hesitation. You’ll ultimately find yourself exhausted and with little sustained growth to show for it, just a revolving door of new customers and one-time transactions.

Limited population = Limited potential.

All told, without an understanding of all of the reasons a person should do business with you outside of price, which you’re solely responsible for conveying to the public and more specifically your target audience, there’s no compelling reason to stick around.

Instead of getting caught in a vicious cycle of vying for business by lowering your price, invest your efforts in setting yourself apart from your competition in other areas, thus creating interest and at the same time, establishing that you’re more than just a price tag. Because you are - but it doesn’t really matter if you’re the only one who knows it.

So, because it can be somewhat of a knee-jerk reaction to turn to pricing strategies first because they’re likely to yield instant gratification results to some extent, consider at what cost and remind yourself, “Great brands don’t compete on price alone.”

Instead, stay committed to building a brand that brings clients coming back to you because of who you are and what you bring to the table. Be a trusted resource, share your expertise. Be a quality provider in all areas, from your actual offerings to your character and actions as a good community partner and involvement in the place where you do business. Be willing to provide value even when you’re not immediately compensated, to go above and beyond whenever and wherever possible. Then, be the one who shares those aspects with the world!

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

28 Non-Profit 32 Health

SPOTLIGHTS

1 Client Spotlight: A United Automatic Doors & Glass 16 River City Six

ASK THE EXPERT

22 Sandler Training 33 Larsen & Larsen Auction Company

FEATURE STORIES

34 37 40 46 4

Workplace Wellness Education Commercial Construction Joining Organizations Strictly Business MARCH 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 Publisher/Founder/Accounting Shayne Zutavern - SZutavern@Yahoo.com STRICTLY BUSINESS is not responsible for unsolicited material. All rights to submission, including letters, will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to our unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially or creatively, unless otherwise negotiated with the author. Nothing may be printed in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher. The publication of any advertisement in STRICTLY BUSINESS is not an endorsement of the advertiser or of the products or services advertised.

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A Lot Can Happen In Just Two Years

Over the past two years, McGill Restoration has significantly grown in all aspects of their business. Starting in 2015, McGill Restoration began to expand their service offerings into new markets and different construction industries.

Department of Transportation (DOT) and Infrastructure projects have become a bigger part of their strategic business plan and they have increased the types of services that the company traditionally offers in this construction segment.

The company has started to branch out further than Nebraska and Iowa and is looking at performing work in additional states. McGill Restoration has formed strong business relationships with other key construction companies, which is part of what has allowed them to expand into new geographic areas.

In 2015, McGill Restoration expanded their company footprint by opening up an office in Lincoln, NE. Over the years, McGill Restoration has always done business in Lincoln, but Tim McGill (President) believed it was time to open up the companies 2nd location to better serve that market. In the first full year of being operational (2016), McGill Restoration exceeded its revenue target for their Lincoln location, and the outlook for 2017 appears to be very promising as well. McGill Restoration has also started performing work on parking garage projects for customers as far north as Sioux Falls, SD and as far south as Kansas City, MO. Tim McGill has hopes that an additional office will also become a priority for the company over the next three years. This winter McGill Restoration added a training facility to their Omaha location. This facility will serve as

continuing education resource for their highly skilled workforce. The training that is conducted in this facility includes many safety programs as well as technical training for the company’s field workers and leadership positions.

Over the past two years, McGill Restoration has been able to add an additional 30 full-time craftsmen to their field personnel alone. This has been cited as one of the key elements for the business’s successful growth in recent years. McGill Restoration has been recognized as an Inc. 5000 company for the last two years and was recently ranked as the 15th fastest growing private company in the state of Nebraska. The McGill Restoration team puts a lot of focus on a simple business strategy – taking care of their customer’s needs and paying close attention to the small details. Tim McGill has helped spur his company’s recent growth by creating and implementing a solid strategic plan that is shared throughout the entire company. He has surrounded himself with a very talented group of key managers and company leaders who share and hold the same desire for doing things right! McGill Restoration continues to be an industry leader in the parking garage and stadium renovation industry, as well as the most experienced masonry restoration company in their market area. What does the future hold for McGill Restoration? “Controlled, Continued, and Sustainable growth is what we are positioning ourselves for,” says Tim McGill. “We will continue to add highly competent people in all areas of our business. That is the driving force behind the success we have had over the years.”

McGillRestoration.com | 402.558.7989 | 2821 Grebe St, Omaha, NE

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BUSINESS NEWS

Nebraska Electrician Named ABC Craft Professional of the Year Finalist

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Lincoln Location Under New Ownership

Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) this week announced that Chris Allison, a Lincoln-based electrician with ABC Cornhusker Chapter member Sentry Electric, has been named a finalist for its 2017 Craft Professional of the Year. Winners awards will be announced March 3 during ABC’s Workforce Week ’17 in Fort Lauderdale, FL. “Chris Allison is a true professional both in the field and in the classroom and we are thrilled that he has been named a finalist for ABC’s Craft Professional of the Year,” said ABC Cornhusker Chapter President Anne Klute. “Chris not only supports his fellow professionals on the job, but he gives back to the industry as an instructor in the ABC Training Programs and to the community through providing education during our Scout Saturday Merit Badge. I am proud to say the Chris and Sentry Electric are longtime ABC members and am confident they will represent Nebraska well at during ABC’s Workforce Week.”

ABC presents the Craft Professional of the Year award to a construction craft professional who excels in his or her field while also demonstrating a commitment to safety, training and the merit shop philosophy. The 2017 winner will receive a brand-new 2017 Ram Tradesman Crew Cab truck from the award’s exclusive sponsor, Tradesmen International, with custom upgrades donated by ABC business partner Ram Commercial. In addition, each of the finalists received a tool kit from Bosch.

The TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Lincoln franchise is one of the longest standing franchises in the entire system of over 350 locations and has been owned by the Marrison family for over 23 years. In February of this year, Eileen Marrison made the exciting decision to step away from the business and retire.

She sold the franchise to Justin Tangeman and Tyler Whalen, current owners of the Omaha franchise (also previously owned by Marrison).

Prior to opening the Omaha location Tyler and Justin started off as drivers at the Cedar Rapids location and worked their way up to become managers before becoming franchisees. Justin and Tyler have seen incredible growth at the Omaha location in 2016 due to a large investment in new trucks, employee training, and a large focus on culture development. The plan for the Lincoln franchise will target aggressive growth in the same way. Both the Lincoln and Omaha locations are actively seeking movers and drivers with good work ethic and desire for advancement. Those interested in starting a career with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® are welcome to fill out an application at TWOMEN. com/careers.

Fun Fact: One in three franchise owners in the TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® system started as a mover or driver.

For more information, please visit TwomenLincoln.com or TwomenOmaha. com or contact Brian Beadle at (402) 597-6683 or Brian.Beadle@ twomen.com.

Lutz and McDermott & Miller Join Forces The shareholders and directors of Lutz are pleased to announce that selected offices of Nebraska-based accounting firm McDermott & Miller will be joining forces with Lutz. The transaction is expected to be effective May 1, 2017 and the combined firm will retain the Lutz name.

McDermott & Miller offices located in Hastings, Grand Island and Omaha, along with their eight shareholders and over 40 personnel, will join the Lutz team. The joint entity will bring the total number of Lutz employees to more than 250.

“We are excited to partner with the leading CPA firm in Central Nebraska. McDermott & Miller professionals will strengthen Lutz’s commitment to the agriculture industry as well as bring additional nonprofit and tax resources,” said Mark Duren, Managing Shareholder of Lutz.

Lutz will provide McDermott & Miller clients a deeper breadth of service offerings including: • Financial Planning and Wealth Management • Talent services including Recruiting, Search and Staffing • Technology Consulting, Custom Software Development and Managed Network Services • Merger and Acquisition Advisory Andrew Janzen, shareholder of McDermott & Miller’s Hastings office said, “On behalf of the McDermott & Miller shareholders, we are excited to join forces with Nebraska’s largest locally owned CPA firm. Lutz offers a full range of business solutions that will benefit our clients and they will also provide best practices to our offices including service delivery efficiencies and cutting edge consulting skills.”

For more information about Lutz: MIND WHAT MATTERS + WWW. LUTZ.US. 6 Strictly Business MARCH 2017

New Primrose School at Falling Waters Hosts Grand Opening Event Aspiring to make a difference in the lives of Falling Waters and Omahaarea c hildren and their families, Franchise Owner Katie DeSciose hosted a grand opening event for local families to celebrate the new Primrose School at Falling Waters on Saturday, January 28.

Katie is excited to bring a new Primrose school to the Falling Waters community. “My goal is for our school to form dynamic partnerships with the families of our students, and it will be a privilege to play a key role in introducing parents to all that Primrose has to offer,” says Katie.

Primrose School at Falling Waters officially opened its doors to students on January 17 and is the third Primrose school in the Omaha area.

Adding approximately 35 jobs, the more than 12,000-square-foot school is poised to serve more than 180 local children and their families.

Primrose School at Falling Waters features 11 private classrooms with wireless technology and 6 secure age-appropriate playgrounds. The school also features a Primrose Patch garden for gardening and nature study activities.

Primrose School at Falling Waters is located on the corner of 192 and Harrison Street at 6625 South 193rd Ave. To contact Primrose School at Falling Waters please call (402) 991-6161 or visit www.

PrimroseFallingWaters.com.

BUSINESS NEWS

hello ruby Brings New Mobile Boutique Concept to Omaha Introducing hello ruby, Omaha’s first fashion boutique on wheels! New to the Omaha scene, this modern fashion mobile boutique offers an ever-rotating collection of women’s fashions and accessories. Applying the traditional food truck concept to create an innovative fashion retail experience, offering customers mobile access to premier clothing and accessories, hello ruby is taking fashion-on-the-go to a whole new level!

April 1st will mark the official launch in Downtown Omaha at Ted and Wally’s on 1120 Jackson St. All are welcome to come celebrate and of course…shop! hello ruby offers a unique and innovative approach to shopping, with the most stylish yet affordable women’s clothing & accessories...brought to you on wheels! As Omaha’s first mobile boutique, they stop & you shop – let hello ruby come to you! hello ruby is currently available for private events such as birthdays, girl’s nights, office parties and bachelorette parties. You can also find them at Benson First Fridays, Junkstock, Vintage Market Days, Big Omaha, College World Series and other local events. hello ruby promises you a shopping experience you won’t forget!

Follow the fun on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @hellorubytruck to keep up with the latest fashions and events! For more information please visit shophelloruby.com or contact Jill Dudzinski at (402) 880-0640 or info@shophelloruby.com.

Veridian Credit Union Celebrates First Omaha Branch With School Donations Ve r i d i a n e m p l o y e e s celebrated a milestone in the Waterloo, Iowa-based credit union’s expansion into Omaha, Nebraska on Wednesday, Feb. 8.

City officials, c hamber representatives and local sc hool administrators gathered with staff at Veridian’s branch at 15001 West Maple Road for a ribbon-cutting event and donation presentation to three local schools.

In the weeks following the branch’s December 26 opening, the credit union launched its Veridian Gives Back program and asked for public input on which of eight local schools should receive a portion of $4,000 in donations. Elkhorn Grandview Middle School received 9,439 votes and $2,500. Ezra Millard Elementary School received 8,153 votes and $1,000. Heritage Elementary School, of Bennington Public School District, received 3,005 votes and $500.

The new 5,104-square-foot building is the credit union’s 29th branch and first outside of Iowa. It’s also the same blueprint being used in the construction of another Veridian branch scheduled to open in Papillion, Nebraska this spring. Both include a drive-thru ATM, family-sized office to accommodate members with children during longer visits, space for mortgage and commercial lenders and biometric access to safe deposit boxes using a scan of the hand. The credit union is planning for continued growth in the Omaha metro, with 10 branches projected in the next 10 to 15 years.

Veridian Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative founded in 1934 in Waterloo, Iowa as John Deere Employees Credit Union. Earnings are returned to members through great rates and low-to-no fees. The credit union offers a full range of business and consumer financial services, including accounts, loans, guidance, investments and insurance. Membership is open to anyone living or working in the credit union’s 70-county field of membership, including Omaha, Council Bluffs and surrounding communities. For more information, visit veridiancu.org or call (800) 235-3228.

B4B Celebrates 3 Years of Networking Events The Business4Business (B4B) Professional Society is excited to share the news that their annual New Year Kick Off event was a huge success! On January 11th, B4B welcomed nearly 100 business and community professionals to network while enjoying food and drinks at Kobe Steakhouse. Jeremy Stanislav from Sammy’s SuperHeroes was in attendance and briefly addressed the audience, educating them about the organization’s mission and work in the community and how they could get involved.

Business4Business Professional Society launched in January of 2014 and has since hosted over 100 networking events, including professional speakers, and non-profit tours. They have nearly 30 events planned for 2017.

Involvement in B4B events allows members to tap into the potential of our community and its people, while at the same time enjoying experiences throughout the year that are unique, impactful, empowering, and exciting. Make the decision to make 2017 the year you invest in yourself, your development and your career by being a part of this amazing society! To get started, go to www.b4bsociety. com/all-access-pass and click on the “Buy Now” button.

To see the calendar of events, visit www.b4bsociety.com.

If you have questions or would like further information about the Business4Business Professional Society, please feel free to email B4B@B4BSociety.com with inquiries, or contact Executive Director Michelle Schrage directly at (402) 490-4192. Hope to see you at B4B events in 2017!

MARCH 2017 Strictly Business

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BUSINESS NEWS

HIP, OffiCenters: Customized Packages for Office Space Available in 2017

4th Annual Wine Festival Now Called Sip Nebraska Returns to Mahoney State Park

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.

The 4th annual wine festival, now called Sip Nebraska, highlighting wines from Nebraska wineries from around the state, will once again be held at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park May 5-6, 2017.

Guests are invited to taste wines and hard ciders, while also enjoying live music, food, and conversation against the beautiful backdrop of Mahoney SP. The weekend will also include a live entertainment lineup, unique food pairings, artisan vendors, education sessions, dance lessons, trolley tours through the park, and much more. Transportation options to and from the festival from nearby cities and Uber as an option on-site are available.

Featured musicians, food vendors, artists and more are posted on the Sip Nebraska Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sipnebraska and the official website at www.sipnebraska.com.

Tickets are $25, $40 or $60; the $40 and $60 tickets include commemorative items along with wine and cider tastings. A limited number of cabins, lodge rooms, and campsites are also being held at the park for guests of the festival. Tickets and more information is available at sipnebraska.com. For lodging, call (402) 882-2448.

Volunteer, vendor, and sponsor opportunities are still available. Call (402) 882-2448 or email stacy@blurparties.com at Blur Parties, Inc. for more information.

Spring Roofing Seminar Scheduled for Commercial Roofing Contractors Mar. 16-17 Dennis Nun, of The Secure Roof Solution will be a featured speaker along with Conklin Building Products Mar keting Manager and former Nebraska State Senator Beau McCoy at the 2017 Spring Roofing Seminar scheduled for March 16 & 17 in Shipshewana, Indiana.

“This two-day event is a training program and trade show that will be attended by existing commercial roofing contractors, architects, general contractors, painting and remodeling contractors, commercial builders and residential contractors expanding into the commercial roofing field,” says Nun. “Several hundred attendees are expected from a dozen states as far west as Colorado and as far east as the Atlantic coast.”

In addition to giving attendees the opportunity to learn about the profitable field of commercial roofing from successful contractors, they will learn about the energy saving, renewable roofing systems available from manufacturers including the Conklin Company and roofing equipment suppliers.

For more information on this program and registration details contact Dennis Nun at DennisLNun@gmail.com or call (402) 430-7727. For contractors unable to attend this event, a packet of information is available, following the program, by request.

8 Strictly Business MARCH 2017

BBB: QuickBooks Phishing Con Targets Small Businesses Don’t Click on Phony QuickBooks Email! This clever new phishing scam is fooling small businesses. The message looks like an email alert from accounting software QuickBooks, but it’s really a phishing con.

How the Scam Works: You receive an email with the subject line “QuickBooks Support: Change Request.” The message is “confirming” that you changed your business name with Intuit, QuickBook’s manufacturer.

However, you never made such a request. It must be a mistake, but fortunately the email contains a link to cancel.

Pause before you click! Scammers know that you didn’t make this request, and the link to cancel is simply bait. It downloads malware to your device, which scammers use to capture passwords or hunt for sensitive information on your machine. This can open you up to identity theft.

How to Spot a Phishing Scam: • Check the reply email address. One easy way to spot an email scam is to look at the reply email. The address should be on a company domain, such as jsmith@company.com.

• Check the destination of links: Hover over links to see where they lead. Be sure the link points to the correct domain (www. companyname.com) not a variation, such as companyname.othersite. com or almostcompanyname.com. Scammers can get creative, so look closely.

• Consider how the organization normally contacts you. If an organization normally reaches you by mail, be suspicious if you suddenly start receiving emails or text messages without ever opting in for the new communications.

• Be cautious of generic emails. Scammers try to cast a wide net by including little or no specific information in their fake emails.

Be especially wary of messages you have not subscribed to or companies you have never done business with in the past.

Don’t believe what you see. Just because an email looks real, doesn’t mean it is. Scammers can fake anything from a company logo to the “Sent” email address.

BUSINESS NEWS

Attention Local Professionals: Applications Open for 2017 Educator Internships

Eakes Office Solutions Honored by Sharp for Outstanding Achievement

The Greater Omaha Chamber, in partnership with Metropolitan Community College and Iowa Western Community College, are now accepting applications for their 2017 Educator Internship program, an opportunity for area teachers, counselors and administrators to immerse in a modern workplace and bring their experiences back to the classroom.

Professionals in the Omaha (Douglas, Sarpy, Washington, Cass, and Dodge Counties) and Council Bluffs (Pottawattamie, Harrison, and Mills Counties) area are eligible to apply. One hundred participants will be selected based upon their subject areas, school and experiences they represent. All participants must complete and submit an application by March 7.

Internships last one week (approx. 40 hours) and can be coordinated during the weeks of: June 5-9, June 12-16 and June 19-23. Upon completion of requirements, educator-interns will receive a maximum $600 stipend.

Internships are expected to target areas specifically focused on: healthcare; industrial tech; transportation/logistics; manufacturing; agriculture; career counseling and S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). During the application process, educators will request preferred areas of skills and knowledgebuilding. The Chamber is responsible for coordinating with educators and host companies. For more information, contact Alissa Bonwell at (402) 978-7920.

Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America has recognized Eakes Office Solutions as a Hyakuman Kai Elite Dealer.

Sharp awards Hyakuman Kai Elite status to exceptional dealers that have achieved $5 million plus in sales during the past year.

Eakes is among a select group of dealers recognized by Sharp from the hundreds of dealers that sell Sharp’s advanced business products and solutions in the U.S. Doug Albregts, President, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America, stated, “This award is not simply a measure of sales performance, but embodies all the qualities we look for in an exemplary dealership, including innovative business practices and long-lasting community relationships through outstanding local customer service. It is truly an honor to recognize Eakes for their substantial contributions to Sharp’s success.”

“Our goal is to provide Nebraska-area businesses with worldclass products and support, helping encourage business growth within the community,” said Mark Miller, President, Eakes Office Solutions. “We are proud to be a Sharp dealer and look forward to strengthening our customer relationships by supplying the latest technology and comprehensive document solutions.”

Eakes Office Solutions has been awarded Hyakuman Kai Elite Dealer status 11 times in the past 12 years, and is a top-5 Sharp dealer in the nation. Find out more about Eakes Office Solutions, an industry leader in the commercial office products and services business for over 70 years, at www.eakes.com.

MITA Presents Export Compliance, Current Cuba and Iran Sanction Updates US Export Controls and Trade Sanctions (“Export Sanctions”) and the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the “FCPA”) are some of the most critical laws and regulations that US companies must consider when doing business internationally.

An upcoming presentation will provide a summary of the Export Sanctions and the FCPA which will include discussion of recent developments occurring during the transition to a new Presidential administration.

The presentation will devote special focus to: • Potential trade opportunities under recent amendments to the Cuban Export Sanctions, • Current Export Sanctions against Iran, • Recent partial suspension of the Sudanese sanctions, • Very recent developments in the Russia and Ukraine Export Sanctions, • Department of Justice’s 1-year pilot enforcement program which offers cooperation credit for companies making self-disclosure of FCPA violations and limits cooperation credit for companies that fail to self-disclose, and • Summary of ongoing investigations and Export Sanctions and FCPA enforcement actions recently concluded by the US government.

This event will take place on March 16th from 8-11:30 a.m. and will be held at Tiburon Golf Couse Clubhouse, 10302 South 168th Street, Omaha, NE. Information on how to register, as well as membership information or how to become a sponsor of the World Trade Conference, can be found at www.mitaonline.org or by contacting the office at (402) 596-1210 or mita@mitaonline.org.

“Our Commitment to Our Community”

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Call today: 402-444-7000

4102 Woolworth Ave, Omaha Quality of Care Five Star Rating Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services MARCH 2017 Strictly Business

9

BUSINESS NEWS New Diversity and Inclusion Talent Survey to Gauge Perceptions of Omaha, Support YP Inclusivity Initiative The Greater Omaha Chamber’s Young Professionals, the Urban League of Nebraska, and the Urban League of Nebraska Young Professionals have introduced a new survey aimed at capturing the voice of young professionals in Greater Omaha.

The survey follows a 2015 YP survey – part of the Campaign for a Greater Omaha – that found black young professionals were 5-6 times less likely than their peers to recommend Greater Omaha as a place to live, work, and play.

“We want everyone’s voice to be heard. This survey is a starting place,” said Thomas Warren, Urban League of Nebraska’s president and CEO. Intended to inspire a new, collaborative YP inclusivity initiative, the online survey was launched on Jan. 23. Project partners will use the results to develop an action plan to help improve satisfaction and perceptions of the Omaha community. They have contracted with the University of Nebraska-Omaha’s STEPS program to conduct the survey.

“We want all young professionals to feel like Omaha is the best place for them – to the point they’re recommending our region as ‘the place’ for their peers to live and grow their careers,” said Luke Hoffman, talent manager, Greater Omaha Chamber. “We look forward to working with our partners to make that a reality.”

To participate in the Diversity and Inclusion Talent Survey, visit: bit. ly/YPSurvey2017.

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Strictly Business MARCH 2017

Midwest UAS Services & Supply LLC Now Offering Commercial “Drone” Services A new startup has launched in Omaha! Midwest UAS Services & Supply LLC is a technology company that specializes in aerial data collection using “Drones.” Services offered range from videography and mapping to building envelope inspection. The company also provides exterior and interior pre-, progressive, and post-construction documentation photography.

Striving to match aerial platforms with payload data collection to your specific needs, Midwest UAS Services & Supply’s team of certificateholding “PICs” assures that FAA compliance and attention to privacy issues are addressed professionally. Key executives include: Hague Howey, President/CEO/Founder: Visionary for this startup who handles the administrative/marketing functions of the company. Howey holds BS in Business, with 14 years of experience in Corporate Finance and 29 years as a General Contractor & Facility Manager.

Roy C. Kessell, Vice President, Director of Field Operations: Graduate UASF Academy (Civil Engineering) and retired Lt. Colonel; MS in Administration, Weather Studies USAF; T-38 Instructor; C-135 Pilot, with over 9,500 flying hours. Since retiring, Kessel has managed two flight schools and the Plattsmouth Airport; he continues to train pilots plus serve as an Independent Corporate Pilot.

Both are very active in in the Omaha community.

At Midwest UAS Services & Supply, expertise is applied to each client’s unique challenges for the desired outcome. Establish your business as a recognized leader in your field of expertise by utilizing advanced technology! Find out more at www.MidwestUASServices.com.

BUSINESS NEWS Max I. Walker Celebrating 100 Years of Service Max I. Walker (www.maxiwalker.com) is celebrating the company’s 100th year as a family owned and operated business on March 17, 2017. Max I. Walker wants to thank the community that has supported their company through the last century and celebrate the company’s innovations, accomplishments, and employees.

The dry cleaner and launderer began as an inherited press shop as a means of settling a debt to the company’s name sake, Max I. Walker, in March of 1917. His entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to customer service has been passed through 5 generations of Walkers who have been part of the business’s growth and adaptation.

After its small beginnings in Omaha, Max I. Walker has grown into the largest dry cleaning operation in metropolitan Omaha, expanding to 23 locations throughout Omaha and adding Uniform Rental to its array of services. It isn’t just another option for dry cleaning; it’s the only dry cleaner that promises a written guarantee: the customer can expect their items will be ready, right and to their satisfaction when they come to pick them up.

Max I. Walker considers itself “the 21st Century Cleaner,” because of the cutting-edge technology and new perspectives of the younger generation that keeps Max I. Walker relevant as it enters into another century of service. Between their electronic commerce system, RFID tags to track uniform rental orders, and other major technological advantages, the business running more efficient than ever.

Iowa West Field House Now Open The newly named Iowa West Field House near the MidAmerica Center in Council Bluffs, a shared endeavor between operating partners Iowa West Foundation and Omaha Sports Academy, is officially open.

The Iowa West Foundation Hunter Pearce, a 6th grader at Kirn financed the project, and Middle School in Council Bluffs and from the very beginning, basketball player for the ALBA Lynx, cuts the goals for the field house the ribbon. Also pictured (L-R) are Bob were to provide hard-court Franzese, Co-Owner and General Manager space and access to regional of Omaha Sports Academy; Nate Dix, sports teams as well as to General Manager of the Iowa West Field drive economic development House; and Pete Tulipana, President and CEO of the Iowa West Foundation. in the Mid-America Center and tourism in Council Bluffs.

Following a national search, Omaha Sports Academy was chosen to run the recreation center, which features eight full-sized hardwood basketball courts and twelve full-sized hardwood volleyball courts.

Omaha Sports Academy has a proven model that will draw residents and visitors alike to the facility and surrounding area while keeping community access a top priority. With one location in West Omaha, the Omaha Sports Academy offers youth sport instructional clinics, camps, academies and tournaments in its facility that features four full-sized courts and a specially designed court for youth ages three to six. The Iowa West Field House is more than twice that size.

Omaha Sports Academy has hired a Council Bluffs native to serve as the General Manager. Nate Dix assumed the role of dayto-day management of the facility, which opened the weekend of Jan. 14. An official ribbon cutting was held on Feb. 9. Those with inquiries are welcome to contact Dix via email at nate.dix@ omahasportsacademy.com.

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Midtown 2050 Corporation Formed to Accelerate Midtown Revitalization, Modernization A new development corporation – Midtown 2050 Corporation – has been formed to coordinate and accelerate the next phase of midtown Omaha’s revitalization and progression into a dynamic, transit-oriented urban community.

Midtown Vision 2050 sprang from discussions between midtown anchors Mutual of Omaha and UNMC about pursuing a cohesive vision for the future of midtown Omaha. They engaged an urban planning firm, DPZ Partners LLC, to evaluate midtown and set broad new goals for the community. One element of the vision plan called for the formation of an independent midtown development corporation – thus the launch of Midtown 2050 Corporation. A not-for-profit Nebraska corporation, it will lead the vision implementation process and coordinate crucial private and public investment.

The Midtown 2050 Board includes representation from key midtown stakeholders: Creighton University, Kiewit Corporation, Midtown Neighborhood Alliance, Heritage Services, Mutual of Omaha, Nebraska Medicine and the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

Ken Cook, president of East Campus Realty LLC , the Mutual of Omaha subsidiary behind Midtown Crossing, will serve as chairman of Midtown 2050 Corporation. Former U.S. Congressman Brad Ashford has been appointed Midtown 2050 Corporation president and executive director. Joining Cook on the Midtown 2050 Corporation Board are Vice Chairman Alan Lincoln, real estate manager at Kiewit Corporation; Sue Morris, president of Heritage Services; Diana Failla, president of the Midtown Neighborhood Alliance; the Rev. Daniel Hendrickson, S.J., president of Creighton University; Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., UNMC chancellor; and Daniel DeBehnke, M.D., president and CEO of Nebraska Medicine.

The Midtown Vision 2050 vision plan builds on and seeks to accelerate the momentum seeded by the Destination Midtown initiative, construction of $365 million Midtown Crossing, UNMC’s vertical growth, the re-emergence of the Blackstone District, and residential redevelopment spearheaded by companies such as Urban Village.

Midtown 2050’s area of focus is defined as Center Street to the south, 48th Street to the west, Cuming Street to the north and 20th Street to the east.

Based on the recent work of experienced urban planners, the impact of implementing the Midtown Vision 2050 plan (for the five years following the initial streetcar and related restoration/development construction phase) is estimated to be an additional $8.7 billion in sales activity, boosting wages by $3.9 billion. This is estimated to contribute a minimum of $326 million to state and local tax collections for the five-year period. This compares to an estimated annual $6 million operating budget for the entire streetcar system over the same five-year period.

MARCH 2017 Strictly Business 11

BUSINESS NEWS

Mid-States Utility Trailer Sales Launches New Company Website

Living in the Yellow Announces Next Basic Pistol Class for Women

Mid-States Utility Trailer Sales, along with Keizer Refrigeration and Transport Refrigeration of South Dakota, are delighted to announce the recent launch of a brand new company website: www.midstatesutility.com.

Patty Nun, an NRA Trained Pistol Instructor, has announced that the March 11th Basic Pistol Class has sold out. The next class has been set for October 21, in Lincoln, Nebraska for women who have little or no previous experience handling a pistol.

Early registration is encouraged.

The new site includes a host of new graphics to refresh the company brand, new user-friendly navigation, featured inventory, video platform and many other features that will improve the experience for online visitors. It is mobile responsive, which means that it will adjust the graphics and content to the visitor’s device without losing any visual impact or functionality.

Online visitors can now browse through a large trailer inventory, read about mobile service, check out the latest parts special offers, or find out about new career opportunities. The company has also included ‘Meet Our Staff’ sections to introduce their teams from all four locations. Mid-States Utility Trailer Sales will continue to work behind the scenes to further develop the website and add more features this year, including an online parts store.

Mid-States Utility Trailer Sales, Inc. is one of the largest semi-trailer dealers in the U.S. today and one of Top 5 Utility Dealerships in the USA. The company serves thousands of customers, both in and traveling through the Midwest, through their dealerships in Omaha, NE, Sioux City, IA, Des Moines, IA and Sioux Falls, SD. For more information, visit the website or contact the Omaha location directly at (402) 331-4740.

“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 ensure 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 conceal carry course for women, but we plan to offer that in the very near future.

We will require the Living in the Yellow Basic Pistol Class prior to attending our CCW training program.”

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

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

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Strictly Business MARCH 2017

BUSINESS NEWS

Air Power of Nebraska Announces New Ownership Atlas Copco Compressors LLC, the world’s largest manufacturer of air compressors, has purchased Air Power of Nebraska from owner and co-founder, William Penry.

Air Power began business in 1979 at its longtime location, 5401 South 72nd Street, Omaha, NE, and all employees will remain with the new owner as it continues distribution of industrial compressed air systems. All existing service and warranty contracts for the 3,500 in its customer base will be honored by the new owner.

Penry remains active in the industrial air compressor market as partner and co-owner of Omaha Pneumatic Equipment Co., Inc., located at 7117 Q Street, Omaha, NE 68117. OPEC (www.omahapneumatic. com) is a stocking distributor of Industrial Compressed Air Systems.

They specialize in sub-50 horsepower applications and have an active customer list exceeding 2500, with most being repeat customers.

For more information, please contact Shawn Evans at (402) 331-6311 or email Shawn@omahapneumatic.com.

TJ Maxx, HomeGoods, Sierra Trading Post to Join Burlington at Eagle Run Shopping Center The Lerner Company has completed the retenanting of the vacant Kmart building at Eagle Run Shopping Center. Kmart closed their 93,000-square foot store in December of 2014. Burlington will open their new store in March, occupying 40,000 square feet. TJ Maxx and HomeGoods will open later in the year. Sierra Trading Post will open before the first quarter of 2018.

Eagle Run Shopping Center, located at 132nd and West Maple Road in Omaha, Nebraska is a community shopping center encompassing 415,000 square feet. Other big box retailers in the center include Baker’s Supermarket, Kohl’s Department Store, Petco and Office Depot.

The Lerner Company is a full service real estate company located in Omaha, Nebraska. Its services include development, leasing and sales, management, investment sales, and tenant representation. Latest development projects include Settlers Creek Shopping Center and West Village Pointe mixed use development. Brokerage services specializes in retail real estate and provides tenant representation for more than 50 prominent national and regional retailers. For more information, please call (402) 330-5480 or visit www.lernerco.com.

Lucky Bucket Announces New Seasonal Beer: Wide Eye Coffee Stout In a growing competitive market, Omaha’s own Lucky Bucket Brewing Company is partnering with local coffee roaster, Archetype Coffee, to create a new offering just in time for spring 2017 – Wide Eye Coffee Stout.

Hailed as a “modern day, classic pairing” of coffee and beer, copious amounts of fresh roast were added into this unique ale. The seasonal brew is packed with roasted barley and chocolate malt. Steeped with fresh coffee beans from Archetype, the two dark libations marry to create a perfectly blended coffee stout.

Adam Cunningham, the head brewer at Lucky Bucket, has been creating concoctions with Jason Birkum, Archetype’s house roaster for more than five years now. In the past, Cunningham and Birkum’s creations were only available on draught in a very limited capacity, but this project is different because of its availability in six-packs.

Wide Eye Coffee Stout is now available in six packs on store shelves in the area. Beer hunters can also pick up a six-pack at Lucky Bucket’s tasting room located at 11941 Centennial Road, La Vista, NE 68128.

Lucky Bucket was founded in 2008 and is located in La Vista, NE. The brewery has many styles of beers available in both kegs and six packs at retail outlets throughout Nebraska and the Midwest. Find out more at luckybucketbrewing.com.

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FedEx Launches 5th Annual Small Business Grant Contest FedEx Corp. has announced the launch of its 5th annual Small Business Grant Contest on Feb. 21. This year, the contest offers grants and services to ten small businesses, distributing a collective prize pool of $120,500—the largest sum since the contest’s inception. For the first time this year, the winners will also receive an additional dollar amount in credit to use towards FedEx Office print and business services to help run their businesses.

Over the past four years, 13,000 businesses have entered the contest in the United States alone. The 2017 FedEx Small Business Grant Contest is open to U.S.-based for-profit small businesses with fewer than 99 employees and operating for six months or more. To enter, participants must visit www.fedex.com/grantcontest and enter their contact information, write a short profile about their business and upload four photos of their business or product, including their logo.

While not required, participants also have the option of submitting a 90-second “elevator speech” video to supplement their entry.

The contest entry period is open from February 21 to March 29, 2017, with voting to take place from March 1 to April 5, 2017.

Following a judging period, winners will be announced on April 25, 2017 at www.fedex.com/grantcontest.

MOBA Spring Parade of Homes to Showcase Repeat, Experienced Builders The Metro Omaha Builders Association’s 59th annual Spring Parade of Homes will open April 22.

Omaha’s original Spring Parade of Homes is presented by the MOBA and First National Bank. From Bennington to Bellevue, this year’s parade will feature homes throughout the Omaha metro ranging in price from $190,000 - $1 Million plus. The Parade of Homes is free to the public and showcases the newest trends in home design. Whether you’re looking for a starter home, dream home, a villa or condo, there’s truly something for everyone. Visit www.moba.com to download the parade map.

The Metro Omaha Builders Association (MOBA) was chartered in 1946 and is a not-for-profit organization that was established to promote and protect various aspects of the home building industry. MOBA is an organization of individuals and firms involved in residential and light commercial building and development and related industries. MOBA is also known for the Omaha Home Show, Remodel Omaha Tour and Street of Dreams. For more information, visit www.moba.com.

MARCH 2017 Strictly Business 13

BUSINESS NEWS

Growth Behind Relocation of Legacy Design Strategies Legacy Design Strategies, an estate and business planning law firm, has relocated from the Millard area to 168th & Cornhusker in the Southwest Omaha/Gretna area. “We simply outgrew our old space,” said Dan Stuenzi, Director of Strategic Development, “and we wanted to be part of the exciting growth taking place in Southwest Omaha.”

Legacy Design Strategies was founded by attorney Andrew C. Sigerson, and in the past decade has grown from a solo practice to the largest estate and business planning firm in the Midwest. The firm now has 12 attorneys serving clients in 8 Midwestern states. “The type of planning we do,” says Sigerson, “is personally rewarding for our attorneys. We’re very family-oriented, and we have the privilege of working with families for multiple generations to protect their wealth and design a legacy for their loved ones.”

Legacy Design Strategies limits its practice to estate and business planning, including the categories of elder law, Medicaid planning, and asset protection. To schedule a free consultation, the firm can be reached at (402) 505-5400, or visit their website at www.ldstrategies.com.

Hayneedle’s Rapid Growth Fuels Expansion Hayneedle.com has announced the expansion of its operations in Monroe, OH with a 994,000-square-foot fulfillment center to continue to position itself for long-term, strategic growth.

The new facility, Hayneedle’s third overall and second in Monroe, will increase the company’s national fulfillment footprint to more than 2 million square feet. This is in line with Hayneedle’s multi-year plan to meet growing demand, maintain high levels of service to its customers, and support the success of its own product lines. The new facility is located just five miles from Hayneedle’s existing 721,000-square-foot Monroe facility and will open and receive its first shipment in June 2017.

One of the nation’s leading online retailers for indoor and outdoor home furnishings and décor, hayneedle.com offers thousands of brands and millions of products for every space, style, and budget. Hayneedle is consistently ranked among the top 100 on Internet Retailer’s Top 500 retail websites. Founded in 2002 and based in Omaha, NE, the company employs more than 800 people nationwide.

To learn more about open positions at Hayneedle, interested candidates can visit www.hayneedleinc.com/careers.

First Nebraska Educators Credit Union Now First Nebraska Credit Union

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Strictly Business MARCH 2017

First Nebraska Educators Credit Union recently announced that it has revised its charter to expand membership opportunities to more Nebraskans and Iowans. Effective immediately, First Nebraska Educators Credit Union is now First Nebraska Credit Union.

Under the new charter, all individuals who live, work, worship or attend school in Cass, Dodge, Douglas, Lancaster, Sarpy, Saunders, Washington and Pottawattamie counties are now able to take advantage of the many products and services offered. First Nebraska Credit Union will continue to proudly serve educators, healthcare providers and select employee groups, with no changes in select employee group membership opportunities.

First Nebraska Credit Union is headquartered in Omaha at 10655 Bedford Ave. It is the 9th largest credit union in the state of Nebraska with assets exceeding $117M, and was recognized as #17 in the top 200 healthiest credit unions in the nation! It was established in 1964, but due to its merger with Educators Credit Union in 2000, has been proudly serving educators and the Omaha community since 1932. As of June of 2016, it has grown to 65 employees and more than 13,600 members at six branch locations in Omaha and Lincoln.

For more information on how you can experience the First Nebraska difference, visit firstnebraska.org or dial 1-800-882-0244.

BUSINESS NEWS

Hansen-Mueller Co. Announces Plans for New Facility in Fremont Hansen-Mueller Co., a grain industry leader based in Omaha, NE, has announced that they will locate a state-of-the-art bagging facility in Fremont, NE for animal and pet food products.

The first phase of the project will initially create five to 10 jobs with a multi-million dollar investment. The firm purchased a 60,000 square foot facility on South Union St. in Fremont.

Operations will include state-of-the-art conventional and organic bagging lines for animal and pet foods packaged under a number of well-known brand names, several private label companies and Hansen-Mueller’s own branded products.

Hansen-Mueller Co. believes there is tremendous potential for the project to grow in the future. They also appreciate that Fremont has made it possible for their contractors to stay in the community during the construction phase to maximize the positive impact the project will have on the community. Hansen-Mueller Co. is also happy to announce that longtime Fremont resident, Kathy Butler, has been named as Facility Manager for the new operation.

A leader in the grain industry since 1979, Hansen-Mueller Co., is a valued agricultural partner that provides a customized approach to commodities merchandising through price discovery, marketing, transportation and logistics. From traders to accountants to facility operators, the team at Hansen-Mueller Co. is driven to continuously improve and consistently meet the needs of its customers. Discover more at www.hansenmueller.com.

Della Costa: New Mediterranean Concept Coming to Midtown SamFam LLC, owner of the recently opened Herbe Sainte in Aksarben Village, is set to debut a seafood-inspired, Mediterranean concept in Midtown Crossing in late April 2017.

Called Della Costa, the new restaurant will feature regional dishes from the coasts of Italy, France, Spain, Morocco and Greece.

Owners Ron Samuelson and Justin and Aaron Halbert say Della Costa gives them a unique opportunity to showcase the flavorful and diverse cuisines of the vibrant Mediterranean coast. Executive chef Jeff Owen, chef de cuisine Shawn Phifer and pastry chef Tina Tweedy are developing a distinctive array of items blending the flavors and cultures of this popular region.

“It opens up a whole, new range of opportunity for oysters, clams and whole-grilled fish. It will definitely be trending more toward the seafood side of the Mediterranean palate,” Samuelson says.

“We are really excited to explore this region in depth and find the authentic feel of the area with small, sharable bar appetizers; quick and interesting lunch items; and a dinner menu that will feature everything from pasta, grilled seafood, and aged steaks.

The dessert menu will showcase Tina’s unique and whimsical take on classics and modern sweets from the area.”

The new concept will take over the space formerly occupied by Brix – A Wine and Spirits Experience. From the color scheme, lighting and music to use of the large outdoor patio, Justin Halbert said the goal is to create an intimate, casual space.

The company’s resident sommelier, Aaron Halbert, is developing a broad and inspired wine and cocktail program, designed to complement the bold flavors of the menu and enhance the experience of the outdoor patio, which is among the most popular in the area. His expertise in mixology will also be utilized in the expanded bar area that is planned along the Farnam Street side of the restaurant.

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Bank of the West Celebrates America Set for June 30th Get ready to place your blankets in the park for a memorable summer evening of music and fireworks as the 27th Bank of the West Celebrates America free concert and fireworks show is Friday, June 30, 2017. This favorite kick-off to the area’s Fourth of July festivities brings families, friends and community members together for a night of celebration in Omaha’s beautiful Memorial Park.

Continuing its 27-year tradition of hosting the pre-Fourth of July celebration to thank its customers and community members, Bank of the West will once again deliver a stellar lineup of legendary, family-friendly musical talent, followed by a dazzling fireworks finale.

In addition, Bank of the West announces that Children’s Hospital & Medical Center will be the community partner for this year’s event.

The musical talent for this year’s event will be announced in early spring. Bank of the West Celebrates America, which is hosted in cooperation with the City of Omaha, attracts more than 70,000 people annually. Over the past 26 years, more than 50 nationally acclaimed bands have entertained audiences during this summer concert tradition.

Riekes Equipment Receives 2017 MHEDA Most Valuable Partner Award For the sixth consecutive year since the Award’s inception, Riekes Equipment has earned an MVP Award from the industry’s trade association, MHEDA (Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association).

Award recipients must satisfy a rigorous set of criteria with less than 7% of the association’s membership earning the award. As a 2017 MVP, Riekes Equipment has successfully demonstrated a commitment to business excellence, professionalism and good stewardship.

MHEDA represents almost half of the material handling distributors in the US. In partnership with MHEDA, members consistently outperform non-members. In order to qualify for the annual MVP Award, companies are required to provide evidence of their commitment to their partners in business including their customers, employees and suppliers and excel in the best practices and education.

Founded in 1936, Riekes Equipment is an industry leader in material handling and warehouse solutions. Playing an important role in finding effective solutions for warehouses, service departments and distribution centers, Riekes offers forklifts, racking, hoist and crane products and fleet management services, as well as parts and service for all brands of lift equipment, aerial lifts, docks and other warehouse equipment. For more information, please call (402) 5931181 or visit www.riekesequipment.com.

MARCH 2017 Strictly Business 15

BUSINESS NEWS

Marcus Midtown Cinema to Host EQUUS Film Festival Marcus Midtown Cinema in Midtown Crossing will be stoking the equine excitement when Omaha welcomes the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping & FEI World Cup™ Dressage Finals Omaha 2017, March 29-April 2. The theater was chosen to host the Omaha stop of the 4th annual EQUUS Film Festival, a unique touring event that features a wide selection of equine films.

The EQUUS Film Festival is the first-of-its-kind to highlight and reward the diverse, creative efforts of those who pay artistic homage to the horse. Marcus Midtown Cinema will offer two matinees daily on Thursday, March 30, thru Saturday, April 1, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Shuttle service will be provided from the front entrance to CenturyLink Center Omaha. Films will be shown in two-hour blocks, pairing one feature and a few shorter films each time. A collection of EQUUS Film Festival shorts will also be shown at CenturyLink Center Omaha.

The FEI World Cup™ Finals Omaha 2017 will attract the world’s best horses and riders in two Olympic disciplines to the CenturyLink Center. It is the first-time Omaha has hosted a World Cup and, by extension, an international professional championship. Riders are expected to represent at least 25 different countries.

For more about the EQUUS Film Festival Nebraska World Cup Tour Stop, visit www.equusfilmfestival.net. For more about the FEI World Cup™ Finals Omaha 2017 visit www.omahaworldcup2017.com

16 Local Professionals Complete CAP® Program Sixteen local advisors have recently completed the coursewor k to earn the professional Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP®) designation.

The graduate Front row from left to right: Daniel Waters, Lamson program is Dugan & Murray; Linda Garbina, The Salvation Army; organized by the Louri Sullivan, Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation; Omaha Community Eryka Morehead, Collaborative Planning Group; Janet F o u n d a t i o n Osborn, Hancock & Dana, PC; C.J. Guenzel, First Nebraska ( O C F ; w w w . Trust Company. Back row from left to right: Joe Reding, omahafoundation.

Pinnacle Trust Services; Lisa Strutzel, GWR Wealth Management, LLC; E.J. Militti, Morgan Stanley; Jim org) and led

by OCF board Boulay, Lutz Financial; Troy McKinney, Bland & Associates, PC; Alex Wolf, Koley Jessen, PC, LLO; Steven Hill, m e m b e r, M a r k Weber, a principal University of Nebraska Foundation. Not pictured: Dan Erickson & Sederstrom; John Glenn, Madonna o f S i l ve r S t o n e Dittman, Rehabilitation Hospital; Jon Grob, McGrath North.

Group, Inc. Through a year-long curriculum, the CAP® program provides professionals the knowledge, resources, and tools necessary to help clients reach their charitable giving objectives, while also helping them meet their estate planning and wealth management goals. By integrating the legal, accounting, financial services, and planned giving professions, OCF promotes an interdisciplinary approach to most effectively achieve client objectives.

To complete the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy program, participants meet for 16 class sessions and must pass three graduate level courses.

The program is administered by The American College in Bryn Mawr, PA, the nation’s leading educator of professionals in the insurance and financial services industry, which provides remote learning opportunities across the country.

16 Strictly Business MARCH 2017

The Barre Code Celebrates Grand Opening The Barre Code has officially opened its doors in West Omaha with a spacious studio room that accommodates up to 27 clients per class. A preview week was held Feb. 13-17, including a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Feb. 16, and concluded with the official grand opening festivities on Feb. 18.

The Barre Code encourages women to discover what they are capable of, transforming clients into their strongest and fittest selves. Renowned for its innovative exercises that are anything but routine, the brand brings an ever-evolving class curriculum to the West Omaha location.

Trained alongside seasoned corporate team, the West Omaha instructors welcome the brand-new space with rotating class formats and empowering motivational skills to ensure participants will never plank into a plateau.

Core classes cover all of the body’s needs, the original “Barre Code,” a fifty-minute, total-body workout of isometric holds, heavy repetition, and deep stretching; “BarRestore,” which begins similarly the original Barre Code class, with an additional emphasis on a physically and mentally restorative experience that includes dynamic movement, deep stretches and meditation. Empower yourself to reach beyond your physical, mental, and emotional limits on a three-dimensional ride of plyometrics, speedwork, and agility training during the coveted “HIIT” class or focus on full-range-of-motion strength training with our bootcampstyle routine, “TBC.” Find beauty in strength at The Barre Code West Omaha seven days a week. The studio is located at 16811 Burke Street, Suite 105. Log onto www.thebarrecode.com/studio/west-omaha to view the class schedule and book classes.

Key Complete Therapies: New Name and Satellite Locations Key Physical Therapy, P.C. has changed its name to Key Complete Therapies to reflect its enhanced offerings for therapy services in natural environments by creating clinic satellite operations in Omaha, NE as well as Council Bluffs and Neola, IA. Two clinic-based offices are open at partner locations at 14441 F St, 109 in Omaha and 7 North 6th Street in Council Bluffs. Operations in Neola will be handled on an in-home or on-location basis by a team of expert therapists.

For 10 years, Key Physical Therapy has provided services in “natural environment” – the client’s home, school, daycare, workplace, etc. and is now moving to be more complete and offer adjunct services in select clinic locations as well.

Key Complete Therapies Owner, Dr. Vicky McHugh, PT said: “We take pride in being an exclusive team of providers of Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy with a pediatric team and an adult team, qualified to serve all age groups. Our therapists are specialists in areas of neuromuscular disorders, developmental delays, seating and mobility, feeding and growth, communication disorders, fall prevention, low vision and visual motor deficits, torticollis, autism and sensory integration.”

McHugh said that new services also include feeding and growth, integrative wellness, aquatics in Omaha, Bellevue, Council Bluffs and Neola.

For more information about Key Complete Therapies, contact Vicky McHugh at (402) 819-8477, vickym@mykeypt.com or find them on Facebook.

BUSINESS NEWS

Brookelyn’s Hair & Replacement Celebrates 3rd Anniversary Brookelyn’s Hair & Replacement is celebrating three years in business! Owner Brooke Ahlman launched her small business in February of 2014 with the goal of going the extra mile for her customers, creating a business model that enables her to provide a comprehensive line-up of services for clients throughout every phase of the process.

Brooke handles everything personally, from the initial meeting and free consultation to the ordering of the hair system and then the installation, cut-in, and regular maintenance. By establishing a lasting relationship as the client’s direct point of contact, and performing all services for them, quality control is achieved as she is not only able to ensure that everything is done correctly, but also to guarantee follow-through on all details exactly as specified. At Brookelyn’s Hair & Replacement, customer service is a priority and you’ll get the personal attention you deserve along with results that will have you looking your very best!

Brookelyn’s Hair & Replacement offers non-surgical hair loss replacement services along with regular haircuts, perms, coloring, extensions, updo’s and special occasion styling. Whether you are in need of a hair system or just a fresh trim or new style, Brookelyn’s will help you find the perfect fit for your personal style as well as your lifestyle. For more information on Brookelyn’s Hair & Replacement please visit www.brookelyns.com or contact Brooke Ahlman at (402) 649-0212 or brookelynshair@gmail.com.

UNO Holding Buffett Events Leading Into Berkshire Hathaway Weekend Thousands of people from all over the world will arrive in Omaha the first week of May to attend the Berkshire Hathaway Annual Shareholders Meeting.

To share a deeper understanding of the Oracle of Omaha, Warren Buffett’s values, investor savvy and leadership style, the University of Nebraska at Omaha College of Business will hold several events in the week leading up to the shareholders meeting.

The Genius of Warren Buffett Executive MBA course teaches graduate students and lifelong learners the business valuation methods used

by Buffett, as well as an in-depth look at Buffett’s character and management philosophy. The three-day course runs from Monday, May 1 to Wednesday, May 3 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Mammel Hall.

The Corporate Values Summit, a new event this year, highlights Buffett’s corporate governance, leadership and communication approach. The event begins Thursday, May 4 at 10 a.m. Speakers include: Robert Miles – author and Genius of Warren Buffett instructor, Peter Lefferts – director of American Express Bank, and Lawerence Cunningham – professor of Business Law and Corporate Governance at George Washington University.

The 14th Annual Value Investor Conference will be held Thursday, May 4 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday, May 5 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Conference presenters include: Dr. Robert Cialdini – New York Times bestselling author of “Influence and Pre-Suasion,” Kim Shannon – president of Sionna Investment Managers, and Mario Gabelli – CEO of GAMCO Investors, Inc. The Value Investor Conference includes registration for the Omaha Value Dinner also held May 4. Keynote speaker David Poppe is CEO of Ruane, Cunniff & Goldfarb and lead manager of Sequoia Fund.

For more information, please contact Amy Nielsen at amynielsen@ unomaha.edu or (402) 995-9725.

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Omaha Career Networking to Offer Career Transition Workshop The Omaha Career Networking (OCN; www.OmahaCareerNetworking. org) group dedicated to helping the unemployed and underemployed in the Omaha metro area will be launching a 12-week program titled “Career Transition Workshop” starting Tuesday, March 7. The sessions will be held at Christ Community Church, 404 S. 108 Avenue, Omaha (Old Mill business park), starting at 7:00 p.m. and lasting until 9 p.m.

The current optimistic business outlook with a forecast of increased hiring has resulted in more people coming back into the job market.

Competition for positions will increase and job seeker will need to sharpen the job hunt skills to stand out. Through this 12-session program, the Career Transition Workshop offers great information that can be put to use in finding a rewarding job.

The Career Transition Workshop will bring in a variety of local presenters, all experts in their field, to present on key points of a job search. Career Transition Workshop workbooks are available for a suggested $25 donation, which will contain PowerPoint slides of all 12 weeks. There is no obligation to purchase the notebook and there is no charge to attend the workshop. Attendees do not need to register in advance nor be a member of Christ Community Church. The program is open to all people of all faiths, and childcare is available on-site.

Find out more at www.CareerTransitionWorkshop.org.

Nesco Resource Wins Inavero’s 2017 Best of Staffing® Client and Talent Awards Nesco Resource, a leading employment agency in engineering, IT, administration, and commercial staffing with branch offices in Omaha and Lincoln, NE, was recently announced as a recipient of Inavero’s Best of Staffing® Client and Talent Diamond Awards for 2017. Nesco Resource has been recognized with Best of Staffing Client and Talent Awards for the past five years in a row prior for providing superior service to their clients and job seekers. Presented in partnership with CareerBuilder, Inavero’s Best of Staffing winners have proven to be industry leaders in service quality based completely on the ratings given to them by their clients and the permanent and temporary employees they’ve helped find jobs.

With fewer than 2% of all staffing agencies in U.S. and Canada earning the Best of Staffing Award, just 23% of the 2017 Best of Staffing winners earned the Diamond Award distinction. There are currently over 17,000 staffing firms in the U.S. alone. The winners of this award truly stand out for exceeding client expectations Through its branch office network, Nesco Resource and its affiliated companies offer clients and employees services ranging from Temporary Staffing, Permanent Placement, Recruitment Process Outsourcing, Onsite Management Services and more. Nesco Resource has dedicated offices supporting Engineering & IT, Clerical & Light Industrial, and Accounting & Finance specialties. For more information, contact the local office at (402) 333-9446 or visit nescoresource.com.

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TYLER

Tyler Horsley

NUCLEAR NETWORKING Established in 2010, Nuclear Networking is a digital marketing solutions firm based out of Denver serving clients nationwide, including Lincoln and Omaha, NE. Tyler Horsley is the CEO of Nuclear Networking.

Tell us a little about your business. - While most agencies only focus on SEO strategies, we address and attack marketing from all angles for our clients. That has allowed us to provide our clients with the best results possible. Every company is different, and as such, we only build customized solutions. We’ve had the opportunity to work with multi-level government agencies and Fortune 500 companies, but also many SMBs. We pride ourselves on being very strategic, with extensive education driving everything we do. Integrated expertise is the core of what we offer our clients, and our capabilities to perform competitive analysis outrank any competitors we’ve ever seen based on those tools.

How did you get started in the business? - I came from a federal background working as an AGI specialist for the IRS. I served as a federal officer for Homeland Security and then worked in military contracting. As a hybrid company with folks on staff who still have government clearance, we’re uniquely positioned to not only serve SMBs and corporations, but also government entities.

Tell us a little about your family. - My parents reside here in Nebraska; my father is a federal inspector and my mother owns a nationwide reporting firm. I have 2 brothers and 3 sisters, all of whom also live in Nebraska, so naturally, I’m a big Cornhusker fan.

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

- I’ve experienced some major health issues in my past that helped guide me to where I am today. It woke me up and fast-tracked the decision about what I wanted to do with my life. I decided that was to build a business helping other people grow their businesses out of a hobby of mine, and that’s exactly what I did.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Playing guitar, snowboarding, and traveling are at the top of the list.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - Where to start! I’m bilingual and speak fluent Spanish, I love to cook and almost went to culinary school, I enjoy painting too, I used to be the lead singer in a band…

What are you the most proud of? - The success of Nuclear Networking and where we are today. I started the business when I was 22 and it’s incredible to see what it’s grown to become since. We’ve been able to quickly build capital and have even begun investing in local companies, some of which are our local clients. We’ve even developed a standalone service for that called Angel Insurance.

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

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - The ability to create matter out of thin air. I could create a house. I could create a cheeseburger. I could create money. The possibilities are endless!

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Too many to list. Locally, we support Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO), a nationwide organization that has a strong presence in Omaha.

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

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Email: tyler@nuclearnetworking.com; Website: www. nuclearnetworking.com.

THERON

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Theron Ahlman CAREPATROL

CarePatrol is the nation’s largest senior care referral/placement network. With that level of support, each local franchise specializes in providing expert assistance to families within their territory who are searching for safe, quality care and housing options. Theron Ahlman is the owner of CarePatrol of Nebraska, serving Lincoln, Omaha, and surrounding communities.

Tell us a little about your business. - At CarePatrol, we come alongside to guide our clients through the process of finding the resources that are needed. We help families find Assisted Living, Independent Living, In-Home Care and Memory Care. We review the state’s care and violation history before we ever recommend a community, and we personally tour with the families to our recommended facilities much like a realtor shows families to new homes. We’re able to provide all of this as a free community service because we are compensated by our thousands of providers in our network.

How did you get started in the business? - After working for a couple small businesses, helping them grow, I was looking to take the next step in life. My goal was to own a business, and to make a difference in doing so. I came across CarePatrol and absolutely loved the concept and philosophy, so I took the leap, which included completing the extensive training process that’s required at the national level. I have now been working for myself for over a year and just took over the Omaha territory!

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Getting people to understand the concept of what CarePatrol does and that our services are always free to those we help.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Devoting my efforts to running my business full-time. I have owned a few other businesses, but they have never been my main income source and I absolutely love working for myself and being 100% responsible for the outcome.

Tell us a little about your family. - I have been married to Brooke Ahlman for almost 10 years. We have two kids, Brystal (6) and Gage (3).

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

- The day we opened Brookelyn’s Hair & Replacement, my wife’s business. The plan was always to have our own separate ventures. We knew that as her business grew, we’d get to a point where I could then go and start my own business. If we wouldn’t have done that I would have had a much tougher go of it on my own.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love to go boating with the family during the summer. We enjoy having friends and their kids come out as there is nothing better than a great day on the water.

I also am a huge racing nut.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - We are each responsible for our own success, nobody else.

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I am on the committee for the Alzheimer’s Association’s Blondes vs Brunettes football game fundraising event that will take place April 21st. I want to help advance Alzheimer’s research as my grandma and grandpa were both affected by it, as is my wife’s grandpa.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - We really like Roja Mexican; it seems to be our go-to spot when attending events in Omaha.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? Mobile: (402) 580-2116; Email: therona@carepatrol.com; Website: www.carepatrol.com.

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MICHAEL

Michael Robinson

NOTRE DAME HOUSING Established in 1997 by the Notre Dame Sisters.

Notre Dame Housing is a non-profit government affordable housing agency that provides service-enriched affordable tax credit and subsidized housing and supportive services to low-to-moderate income seniors. Michael Robinson is the Executive Director of Notre Dame Housing.

How did you get started in the business? - Having been raised in Camden, NJ, one of the poorest and most dangerous cities in America, has fueled my passion to help others. I attended grad school at UNL and majored in Urban Studies with an Emphasis in Community and Economic Development. I was previously employed by Family Housing Advisory Services for 8 years, working to stabilize the lives of individuals and families through comprehensive housing and financial counseling services.

In March of 2016 I made the shift to a position where I’m now helping to address the needs of seniors through service-enriched affordable housing.

• Payroll & Payroll Tax Administration What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Life is • Payroll & Payroll Tax Administration • Detailed, Easy-to-Understand Reports full of challenges and without challenge it can become boring. Earlier in my professional career I struggled with delegation. I am not sure if it had • Detailed, Easy-to-Understand Reports • Online & Mobile Payroll Solutions anything to do with being an only child, but as the saying goes, ‘Many • Employee Direct Deposit • Online & Mobile Payroll Solutions hands make less work.’

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I • Employee Direct Deposit feel it’s yet to come. I am always looking to achieve more tomorrow than I did today, striving to improve myself all the time. for a solution! custom solution!

Contact Henri GarciaCall for Joan a custom Tell me a little about your family. - I have been married to Natasha 402.850.5384 Robinson, who is a mental health therapist at Boys Town, for 15 years.

HGarcia@paychex.com jkurtenbach@paychex.com We haveJoan Kurtenbach three children: Isaac (14), Leah (8) and Ava (3); two of whom attend St. Patrick’s Catholic School in Elkhorn. Family is everything to me.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? Losing my grandmother last fall to cancer. She was and continues to be my rock. She’s also the reason I’m so passionate about providing affordable housing and supportive services to low-to-moderate income seniors.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Relax and listen to music.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I was a 1996 track and field All-American in high school. Our 4x200 meter relay team at Woodrow Wilson High School had the fastest time in the nation.

What are you the most proud of? - My wonderful family and friends.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Old ways won’t open new doors. We have to keep evolving as individuals.

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

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - The ability to eliminate homelessness and poverty.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Graphic design and videography.

Which talent would you most like to have? - Fluency in Spanish.

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Family Housing Advisory Services. The organization provides housing and financial counseling for individuals and families who face financial hardships, ensuring that future generations are better prepared.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Rice Bowl.

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

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? Phone: (402) 451-4477; Email: mrobinson@ndhinc.org; Website: www. ndhinc.org.

20 Strictly Business MARCH 2017

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ROSS

Ross Jones

JUST GOOD MEAT Since 1959, Just Good Meat has taken great pride in providing the finest quality beef, chicken, pork, seafood, and exotic meats in the area. Today, they’ve grown to offer so much more, with an amazing selection of homemade sides and dishes along with the addition of catering and an online storefront. Ross Jones is the Manager of Just Good Meat Tell us a little about your business. - You might be familiar with our motto, “You Can’t Beat Our Meat,” and that about sums it up. From our roots as the local butcher shop, we’ve expanded over the years to become a modern-day full-service meat market, deli, caterer, and now a place to stop in a grab a quick bite for breakfast or lunch.

How did you get started in the business? - I started at the bottom and worked my way up. I’ve been with Just Good Meat for 6 years now, and learned all I know from on-the-job experience and mentorship.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - I’d say the ‘holiday rush’ each year; it’s intense. Naturally it’s to be expected in our industry, and we strive to get customers in and out quickly while still providing the quality products and excellent service we’re best known for here in Omaha. As the years have gone by, we’ve found ways to improve processes to make things go more smoothly, but it can be quite the formidable challenge to keep everyone happy in the midst of the madness.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- Learning all of the different aspects of the business here at Just Good Meat. We offer a wide variety of different types and cuts of meats and a big part of my job is to know about each one and the processes that go along with preparation of each, which I’m very proud to have mastered.

Tell me a little about your family. - It’s just me and my 18-month-old son Maverick in our household. Most of my family lives in the Omaha and Lincoln areas, and we are all pretty close.

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

- By far the day my son was born. It’s thrilling to become a parent.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Spending time with my son. Weather permitting we are usually at the lake or the zoo.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - When the baby is sleeping, you sleep!

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

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - Playing my drums!

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - We are active in a lot of organizations here in the Omaha Metro, and donate to the Francis House monthly.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - Mosh Potatoes: Recipes, Anecdotes, and Mayhem from the Heavyweights of Heavy Metal by Steve Seabury.

What is your favorite movie? - I enjoy watching documentaries.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - Johnny Sortino’s Pizza Parlor. I’ve been a fan of their pizza since I was a kid!

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Martin Luther King, Jr. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?

- Visit us online at shop.justgoodmeatomaha.com or call the store at (402) 339-7474.

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Established in 1958, Madonna is a national leader in specialized rehabilitation programs for adults and children, with campuses in Lincoln and Omaha. Brian Pickering, APR, is the Director of Marketing and Communications for Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals.

Tell us a little about your business. - Our areas of specialty include traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, pulmonary conditions, stroke and neurological diseases. As a newcomer to Madonna, I continue to be amazed daily by the commitment of our team to offer hope and healing to the patients who entrust us with their care.

How did you get started in the business? - I began my career in communications right out of college. There weren’t a lot of opportunities for public relations graduates in the early ‘90s where I lived. Fortunately, I landed a temporary internal communications role that grew into a full-time position at a large for-profit organization.

From there, I had the opportunity to move on to other organizations – both large and small – which allowed me to further develop my marketing and communication skills.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Like many people over the course of their careers, finding myself without a job. Looking back, it was also a blessing to have the time to reevaluate what I wanted out of my career and where I wanted to focus my talents and energy. As a result, I’m happier now than ever before.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- I was fortunate early in my career to have an outstanding mentor who helped guide me to be the professional I am today. I’ve relied on her example to build a number of successful teams throughout my career. There’s great satisfaction in knowing you’ve helped others grow both personally and professionally.

Tell us a little about your family. - My wife, Amy, and I have three children ages 13, 16 and 19. Like all teenagers, they’re busy with school, sports, and friends. It’s a crazy time in our lives, but we love every minute of it!

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Go out to breakfast by myself and read the morning paper over several cups of coffee. After that I enjoy taking the day as it comes without anything scheduled.

Which talent would you most like to have? - I’d like to be able to sit down and play the piano. I took lessons as a child but never wanted to practice. Needless to say, my parents weren’t fans of paying for lessons with nothing to show for it. I guess it’s never too late to try again!

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I’ve always had an interest in drawing. As a child I wanted to be an architect. Not sure what happed to that dream along the way, but if I were going to make a change now, I’d give it a shot.

What is your favorite movie? - I’m dating myself here, but I’d have to say one of my favorite movies is The Breakfast Club. Whenever I’m flipping through channels and come across it, I have to stop and watch.

What is your favorite TV show? - The Big Bang Theory, with The Blacklist as a close second.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - I’m a pizza guy. Our oldest daughter got us all hooked on Mellow Mushroom when she was a freshman at UNL, and it’s become a go-to spot for the whole family.

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

- Email: bpickering@madonna.org; Website: Madonna.org.

ROB

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Rob Sorensen FIREGUARD

Serving clients across Nebraska from locations in Omaha and Lincoln, FireGuard, Inc. is focused on the ultimate goal of keeping buildings and the occupants inside safe and protected at all times. Rob Sorensen is the Vice President of Operations at FireGuard.

Tell us a little about your business. - With the motto “One Call Does It All,” we provide commercial clients with access to a comprehensive line-up of products and services in the areas of fire protection and life safety. Our key offerings include fire alarm systems, fire extinguishers, fire sprinkler systems, and so much more. We also serve as a resource for inspections.

How did you get started in the business? - My dad, who has been in the industry for 50+ years! Growing up, he worked for a company called Anderson Fire Equipment, and I technically got my start as a little guy washing fire extinguishers. From a young age it sparked my interest, and as luck (and plenty of hard work!) would have it, ended up turning into a family business.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - With the combination of family and business, working together can be very challenging at times. There are over 45 of us currently employed at FireGuard, including my dad, wife, brother, uncle, and brother-in-law.

In turn, we end up discussing work every family function, so it can also be hard to turn off outside of the office.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

- The immense growth of FireGuard in the last couple of years. During what’s been a time of significant transition for our company, I’ve been able to create a positive atmosphere where people want to come to work and feel comfortable there. I take great pride in both.

Tell us a little about your family. - My wife Jill is an absolutely amazing woman. I also gained two great kids, Tyler (12) and Morgan (10), when we got married. They both attend Catholic school here in Omaha.

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

- When I relocated back to Omaha in 2011 to work for my dad.

After moving to St. Louis to be closer to be with my mother, I ended up living there for quite some time. I’d forgotten how nice it was to have so many friends and family around, and also came back to a job that I enjoyed and gave me a sense of purpose. Plus I was able to reconnect with the lovely lady who became my wife. A lot of great things happened that year.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Doing absolutely nothing! I suppose it’s more accurate to say that I enjoy when I get the chance to do something that doesn’t revolve around work.

Spending time with my family is a big one. Or whatever allows me the opportunity to shut down and reboot.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - One I consistently turn back to is ‘Life is short, don’t sweat the small stuff.’

There are so many things that go on each day that are out of our control. It’s important to be able to forget about it and move on.

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - We work with Project Harmony quite a bit, and are beginning to do more with the Heartland Food Bank too.

What is your favorite local restaurant? - The Drover.

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

- Phone: (402) 592-1999; Email: rob.sorensen@fireguardusa.com; Website: www.fireguardusa.com.

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Don’t Take Shots In The Dark Ken’s closing ratio had been the lowest on the team for four months running. Juanita, his manager, asked him to meet with her privately so they could figure out, together, what the possible obstacles to better performance might be.

Juanita said, “Can I ask what kind of strategies you’re using to identify the pricing and product offerings?” “What do you mean?” Ken asked.

J: “Well, before you put together a proposal, how much hard information are you getting about the amount that somebody is actually willing to pay for working with us?” K: “Hard information?” J: “Yes – what kinds of questions are you asking?”

Ken looked embarrassed, and it was a long time before he could work up the courage to admit the truth: He knew he was supposed to ask prospects about what kind of budget they had available, but he just wasn’t doing it. The few times he’d raised the subject, during his first week on the job, his prospects had put up resistance that made him feel uncomfortable.

It had been over six months since he’d asked anyone, directly and specifically, whether or not there was enough money available to pay for his company’s products and services.

“It sounds like that might lead to a lot of dead ends,” Juanita observed.

“Do you find you’re chasing down a lot of people you create proposals for, people who end up making no decision at all – and disappearing?”

“Yeah,” Ken said ruefully. “I suppose I am. Right now, I’m just guessing when it comes to pricing. And I’m pretty much sending proposals out to everyone.” J: “Okay. Would you be willing to look at another way of deciding who gets to see your proposals?” K: “I would. I know I have to find some way to turn this around. I need to see more commissions coming in.” Juanita was in full agreement – so the two began working on developing some new questions about budget that Ken could feel comfortable asking during sales calls.

Identifying an appropriate approach for “closing the gap” between what the buyer wants to pay and what you want to charge should be a collaborative effort. Second-guessing how much a prospect would be willing to invest with you to close that gap is not an appropriate strategy. If a buyer is unwilling to provide you with any financial guidelines for identifying a budget-friendly solution, it would be appropriate to question his commitment to doing business with you. Before you decided to disengage, however, you should pose a respectful but direct question about what’s keeping the buyer from opening up about what he or she is willing to spend. Such a question might sound like this: “Mike, you’re asking me to put together a proposal for an effective way to help you reduce the warehousing costs of subassemblies awaiting final production. However, you’re unwilling to provide me with relevant information, specifically, your investment expectation, which will enable me to choose the best alternative in relation to those expectations.

Would you at least share with me why you’re asking me to take a shot in the dark rather than giving me something with which to work?”

If this doesn’t lead to a better, clearer discussion about the buyer’s budget for working with you, then you are best advised to close the file and move on to another opportunity.

Following Juanita’s advice, Ken changed his approach. He began asking buyers directly about how much money was available to work on specific projects. When people pushed back – and some did – Ken politely asked why the person would ask him to take a shot in the dark in assembling his proposal.

As a result of posing that question, Ken got better answers from some people – and clearer indications from others that they just didn’t have the necessary funds to work with Ken’s company. Because he disengaged from those leads sooner, Ken’s qualification skills improved – and so did his closing figures. The same will happen to you when you stop taking shots in the dark.

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Strictly Business MARCH 2017

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.

PERSONNEL NEWS

Rachel Larsen Joins Larsen & Larsen Auction Company

Theron Ahlman of CarePatrol Receives National Franchise Award

Larsen & Larsen Auction Company would like to officially welcome Rachel Larsen! Rachel will be serving clients in various roles such as event manager, registration and checkout, clerking, volunteer management and training, education and as a consultant for organizations that are looking to take their event to the next level. She has worked with many organizations, helping create a more effective way of handling the registration and check-out process. Larsen & Larsen Auction Co. is excited to have her on the team with all of her experience and knowledge of the fundraising process.

Theron Ahlman, owner of CarePatrol of Nebraska, has been named the national franchise’s All-In award recipient for 2016.

He was honored for his hard work and dedication at the 2016 CarePatrol Annual Conference in Phoenix, AZ.

Larsen & Larsen Auction Co. specializes in fundraising auctions and offers premier consulting for non-profit organizations. The firm works with groups to take their fundraisers to the next level by increasing their revenue so they can maximize their mission of saving and impacting lives. Owner Jonathan R. Larsen is a professional auctioneer who works with organizations all over the country, including those in Omaha and Lincoln, NE. Those interested in learning more about Larsen & Larsen Auction Company can visit larsenauctioneering.com or are welcome to contact Jonathan Larsen directly at (605) 376-7102 or Jonathan@ larsenauctioneering.com.

Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman LLP Names Ryan M. Kunhart Partner Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman LLP is pleased to announce that Ryan M. Kunhart has become a partner with the firm effective January 1, 2017. Mr. Kunhart had been an associate attorney with Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman LLP since 2011.

Mr. Kunhart focuses his practice on employment law, civil litigation, creditor’s rights and trademarks. In his employment practice, Mr. Kunhart advises clients on the development, implementation and monitoring of employment programs and policies, including assisting business clients in complying with applicable federal, state and local employment laws and defending clients against discrimination and wrongful discharge matters before federal and state administrative courts and agencies. He also advises clients on day-to-day employment matters, including hiring, discipline, discharge, discrimination, employee vs. independent contractor classification matters, non-competition agreements, and compensation.

Mr. Kunhart’s litigation practice focuses on civil litigation, including the representation of the firm’s insurance clients. He is experienced representing municipalities and the local transit authority in insurance defense litigation issues concerning political subdivisions, allegations of civil rights violations, personal injury claims, and other matters common to municipalities.

Mr. Kunhart received his Juris Doctor, cum laude, from Creighton University School of Law in 2011 and his Bachelor of Arts, magna cum laude, from Creighton University in 2007.

Abrahams Kaslow & Cassman LLP is an Omaha-based law firm that has been providing comprehensive legal services to individuals and businesses for over 70 years. To learn more, visit www.AKCLaw.com.

Bringing a new company to Nebraska and the first year in business for Theron had its challenges, but he kept his head up and continued to work hard helping seniors find the safest care options. He stayed positive, followed the CarePatrol way and decided to go even more “all in” with the recent purchase of the Omaha territory. This has effectively expanded the company’s service area to provide its offerings to clients statewide.

CarePatrol is the largest no-cost senior placement agency that helps families find Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care communities. The goal is to find the safest and best community, which is matched by care needs, wants, location, and finances.

The company thoroughly reviews the care and violation history of the communities recommended, and will then line up the tours and personally accompany the family to each one. This is all provided completely free of charge to seniors and their loved ones by a certified senior advisor.

To find out more about your local CarePatrol agency, please visit www.carepatrol.com or contact Theron Ahlman directly at (402) 580-2116 or therona@carepatrol.com.

UNICO Group Welcomes Katie Meyer as Benefits Advisor UNICO Group recently welcomed Katie Meyer to the team. Meyer joined the Employee Benefits division as a Benefits Advisor.

“I knew that I wanted to work at UNICO because of the consultative and relational approach UNICO uses with their clients.

UNICO’s foundation is based upon the fact that long-lasting relationships/partnerships are the key to success and that is exactly the type of company I wanted to work for,” said Meyer.

Katie brings nearly 10 years’ worth of experience working with business owners and HR Managers to her position at UNICO Group. For the past seven of those years, she worked as a Core Sales Representative with Paychex, Inc. “We are excited to expand the energy and the team in our La Vista office and we are thrilled to have Katie join our team,” said Ryan Swinton, EVP of Employee Benefit Division. “UNICO opened an Omaha office in 2009, but has primarily focused on property and casualty insurance.

With the addition of Katie as a benefits advisor, we will be able to further expand our services to the businesses of Omaha area by providing a more comprehensive approach to their insurance needs” said Swinton.

Katie is married to Ryan Meyer, a Commercial Banking Officer at American National Bank. They have two boys, Owen (1) and Chance (5).

UNICO Group is a full-service insurance agency with services ranging from commercial insurance, workers’ comp, and employee benefits, to personal insurance, financial planning, human resource solutions and wellness solutions. For more information about business and personal insurance and financial needs, call (402) 434-7200 or visit unicogroup. com.

MARCH 2017 Strictly Business 25

PERSONNEL NEWS

Midlands Community Foundation Names Three New Board Members The Midlands Community Foundation Board of Directors has named three new members to its Board. They are Brad Eckhoff, representing Papillion and Sarpy County; Kara Habrock, representing Louisville and Cass County; and Kathy Wendlandt, representing Gretna.

Brad Eckhoff holds a Bachelor degree from Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa.

After graduating college, he has worked for Pinnacle Bank and since 2010 has served as the Bank’s Market President. Eckhoff currently Brad Eckhoff serves on the boards of Heartland Family Service and the Sarpy County Economic Development and is President of the Ralston Schools Foundation.

Kara Habrock earned a Bachelor of Journalism degree from the University of NebraskaLincoln in 1990. She started her professional career in marketing and business development at Inacom Corp. in Omaha. In 1998, Habrock joined her family’s construction business and since 2004, has been an owner and Vice President & General Manager of L.G. Roloff Construction Co., Inc., an underground Kara Habrock utility construction and road construction firm.

Since 2014, she also has been a partner in Roloff Building Group, a commercial construction firm. Both of the construction firms are located in Sarpy County and perform projects in the greater Omaha and Council Bluffs metropolitan areas. Currently, Habrock serves as Vice-President of the Louisville School Board, National Chairwoman-Elect and National & State Government Affairs Chair for the National Utility Contractors Association (NUCA) and is on the Board of Directors of the Kathy Wendlandt Cass County Economic Development Council.

Past volunteer experience includes terms on the boards of The Lofte Community Theatre, the Louisville Public Schools Foundation and Heartland Family Service.

Kathy Wendlandt received her Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. She spent 10 years teaching physical education prior to purchasing Blake’s Pharmacy in Louisville in 2001. In addition to Blake’s, throughout the next 15 years, she and her husband, Mitch, owned and operated Gretna Drug, Elkhorn Drug and Community Pharmacy Services. Wendlandt currently assists in the management of Frederick Brothers Rental properties in Village Square and she and Mitch are investors in Avenue 204 Apartments and The Market. Wendlandt is on the Board of Directors for the Gretna Days Foundation and founded the Bright Future Foundation, which supports children and families in need within the Gretna Public School District.

For more information about the Midlands Community Foundation, call (402) 991-8027 or visit midlandscommunity.org.

It’s Not What You Know, It’s Who You Know & Who Knows You! At Strictly Business Magazine, we strive to recognize local businessmen and women for their significant awards, promotions, achievements, and/or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Omaha Metro community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330 or submit your news via our website at www. strictlybusinessomaha.com.

26 Strictly Business MARCH 2017

Leo Knowles Returns to McGrath North McGrath North is pleased to announce the return of Leo Knowles to the law firm.

From 1976 through 2006, Leo practiced law with McGrath North concentrating on litigation matters. He served as lead counsel in numerous jury trials, bench trials and appeals in federal and state courts in Nebraska and other jurisdictions throughout the United States.

Leo joined ConAgra in 2006 as Senior Vice President and Chief Litigation Counsel. In this role, he was responsible for the management of the company’s litigation and environmental matters.

“Leo was one of the firm’s leaders for many years and we are very happy and fortunate to have him back with our firm,” said Roger Wells, President of McGrath North. “Leo has tremendous litigation and client experience and possesses judgment and a unique ability to simplify and resolve complex disputes. Leo will be a great asset and resource for both McGrath North and our clients.”

Leo earned his J.D., cum laude, from Creighton University School of Law in 1976.

Founded in 1959, McGrath North (www.mcgrathnorth.com) is an Omahabased law firm that has grown into one of Nebraska’s largest law firms.

The firm offers a broad range of expertise, serving a large client base including Fortune 500 companies, small and medium-sized businesses, individuals and entrepreneurs from virtually every industry.

Outlook Nebraska Announces Retirement of John Wick Outlook Nebraska (outlooknebraska.org), a nonprofit organization that empowers anyone in the community facing vision loss, is wishing Fund Development Director John Wick all the best as he begins his retirement. Wick’s last day was February 10.

Wick joined the board of directors in 2005. As a board member, he represented the board in Washington D.C., coordinating with the federal government and the National Industries for the Blind to cement purchasing agreements that John Wick helped make Outlook Nebraska sustainable.

In 2008, he became fund development director and has played an integral part in making Outlook Nebraska what it is today.

Wick spearheaded a capital campaign that brought in nearly $2 million dollars. This capital campaign allowed Outlook Nebraska to begin an expansion that will triple adaptive technology training capacity and create more opportunities for additional enrichment and community education programs. Outlook Nebraska is still seeking support for this Ric Miller campaign to honor Wick’s leadership and help to finish what he started. Supporters are encouraged to visit outlooknebraska.org/donations to make a taxdeductible tributary donation.

Fund Development Facilitator Ric Miller, who has been with Outlook Nebraska since August of 2016, will complete the capital campaign and continue to develop fundraising initiatives. Miller brings expertise and a unique set of skills that will allow Outlook Nebraska to continue to increase its community presence. Prior to joining Outlook Nebraska, he served as communications and development director at Crossroads of Western Iowa.

PERSONNEL NEWS

Carrie Malek-Madani Joins Nebraska Community Foundation

Five Nines Promotes Kyle Iliff to Primary Engineer

Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF; www. nebcommfound.org) is pleased to welcome Carrie Malek-Madani as its new director of marketing & communications. Carrie is responsible for developing and implementing NCF’s goals and strategies to build awareness and support for NCF and its affiliated funds.

Carrie creates and oversees the production of NCF’s publications, advertising, social media and video production. She also assists NCF’s affiliated fund volunteers located across the state with press releases, donor stories, fundraising letters and other marketing tools.

Prior to NCF, Carrie worked for the Lied Center for Performing Arts in Lincoln where she managed the organization’s public relations, brand strategy and communications efforts. Her previous professional experience includes work for S&S Public Relations, where she developed PR and media relations strategy for clients in industries ranging from technology to education. Prior to S&S Public Relations, she worked for the Denver Museum of Nature & Science’s marketing department.

Carrie holds a bachelor’s degree in communication: media management, and is currently pursuing her master’s degree at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Journalism & Mass Communications in integrated media communications. She is a member of the National Communication Honors Society, Lambda Pi Eta. Originally from Vermillion, SD, Carrie lives in Lincoln with her husband, Gunnar, and daughter, Eleanor.

Five Nines is pleased to announce the promotion of Kyle Iliff to Primary Engineer in the Omaha office. Iliff loved technology at a young age, which led him to a career in the field. He has been with Five Nines for a year and a half, and is excited to focus on a wider variety of clients and to continue to grow his career with Five Nines.

“We are very excited with the addition of Kyle as a Primary Engineer. His experience and insight will provide a new strength to our team,” said Jim Brown, Operations Team Manager at Five Nines.

Founded on an intense desire to solve problems and build long-term relationships with clients, Five Nines leverages technology to drive business success. With offices in Lincoln, Omaha and Kearney, Five Nines advises the best IT solutions for Nebraska-based businesses, offering Managed IT Services. Through its unique service model, Five Nines’ clients experience reduced costs, accelerated growth, and increased productivity. Learn more at: www.gonines.com.

Latino Center of the Midlands Names Albert Varas as New Executive Director The Latino Center of the Midlands (LCM; latinocenterofthemidlands.org) is pleased to announce the selection of Albert Varas as its new Executive Director. Current Board President, Julissa Lara, indicated she is pleased to make this announcement after working closely with the search committee in the selection process. “The Board’s action comes with the fullest confidence that Albert will be an excellent steward of the LCM’s mission and a leader and advocate for LCM’s youth, adults and families,” said Lara. “Albert’s experience will help us build on the LCM’s historic successes and improve upon our ability to meet the evolving needs of the community we serve.”

Varas has dedicated his life to supporting the advancement of underserved youth and families. His professional career and service work has focused in the areas of education, nonprofits, business, and public health. In his new role, Varas will be responsible for the overall strategy and administration of the agency, as well as growing the organization’s network and awareness of programs and services. “I am honored to have been selected for this great opportunity. I am committed to increasing the organization’s standing within the community and of working closely with our partners, donors and key stakeholders to maximize the opportunities for the clients, students and families we serve,” said Varas.

The mission of the Latino Center of the Midlands is to enhance the lives of the Heartland Latino Community by supporting the education and development of our youth and adults; promoting comprehensive engagement of our families in all facets of their lives; and by fostering leadership through a variety of services and activities. For more information, please contact Juliana Garza at jgarza@ latinocenterofthemidlands.org.

Three Concordia Alumni Earn Lutheran Educator Awards Three Concordia University, Nebraska (cune.edu) alumni recently earned honors for their faithful service in Lutheran education.

The awards were given out by the Lutheran Education Association, which honors Lutheran Shelley Dartmann Dr. George Locke educators eac h year who are nominated for their outstanding service to Lutheran churches and schools.

Shelley Dartmann was selected to receive Lutheran Education Association’s 2017 Distinguished Lutheran Early Childhood Teacher award. Dartmann is a full time kindergarten teacher at Concordia Academy in Omaha, NE. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in education with an early childhood concentration from Concordia University, Nebraska.

Christin Senechal Dr. George Locke was selected to receive LEA’s Distinguished Retired Lutheran Educator EncourAGING award. Locke retired as Superintendent of Lutheran Schools and Executive Director of Youth Ministry, LCMS Michigan District in 2005. He previously served in various teaching and administrative positions at Lutheran Schools in Illinois, Indiana and Michigan and was Executive Director of Christian Education and Youth in the LCMS Nebraska District from 1979–1981.

Locke earned degrees from Concordia College, Milwaukee, Concordia University, Nebraska, and a Superintendent’s Endorsement from the University of Nebraska. He was also awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Concordia University, Ann Arbor.

Christin Senechal was selected to receive Lutheran Education Association’s 2017 Distinguished Lutheran Elementary Teacher award. Senechal teaches fourth grade at Concordia Academy in Omaha, NE. She earned a Bachelor of Science in education from Concordia University, Nebraska and a Master of Science in education from the University of Nebraska Omaha.

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PERSONNEL NEWS

Adam J. Wachal Named Director at Gross & Welch Law Firm

AmeriPride Services Announces Mike Jackson as New General Manager in Omaha

The Omaha law firm of Gross & Welch is pleased to announce Adam J. Wachal has been elected as a Director of the firm.

Mr. Wachal earned his law degree from Creighton University in 2010, where he graduated with honors. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Nebraska. While at Creighton, Mr. Wachal received the CALI Excellence for the Future Award in the areas of Federal Income Taxation, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Debtor-Creditor Relations, Marriage and Divorce, and Mortgages. He was also awarded the American Bankruptcy Institute Medal of Excellence. In addition to his awards, Mr. Wachal served as the Assistant Editor of the Creighton Law Review.

Mr. Wachal’s practice has been focused on civil litigation, insurance defense, insurance coverage litigation, and appellate practice. Mr. Wachal is a member of the Nebraska State Bar Association, Iowa State Bar Association and the Omaha Bar Association. He is licensed to practice in Nebraska and Iowa.

The law firm of Gross & Welch was founded in 1927 by Daniel J. Gross and is located in Omaha, Nebraska. The firm represents clients throughout the states of Nebraska and Iowa in the following practice areas: civil litigation, business law, insurance law, banking law, bankruptcy, employment law, estate planning and probate, real estate, and workers’ compensation. More information about the firm can be found at www.grosswelch.com.

AmeriPride Services, a leading textile rental services and supply company in North America, today announced the promotion of Mike Jackson to the position of General Manager at its Omaha branch.

He will have fiscal and operational oversight over the entire branch and affiliated service centers.

Jackson joined AmeriPride in November of 2013 as a Sales Manager in the Topeka and Kansas City markets and took a new position as Sales Training and Recruiting Manager in February of 2015. Prior to AmeriPride, he worked elsewhere in the industry in various roles, including Route Representative, Route Manager, District Manager, Assistant GM, and GM. Jackson has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Robert Morris College. He and his wife Alisha and their two children will be relocating to the Omaha area as he assumes this new position.

As a true business partner, AmeriPride helps customers improve their image while keeping facilities clean and employees safe.

AmeriPride Services provides linen and towels, uniforms, floor mats, restroom and cleaning products through rental and purchase programs. Innovation, personalized service and a dedication to company values has sustained the private, family-owned company for more than 125 years. Additional company information can be found at www.ameripride.com.

Megan Bratetic First Woman Elected Chapter President of Greater Omaha NARI Greater Omaha NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) is pleased to announce that Megan Bratetic, Bratetic Construction, Inc. (Omaha, NE) has been elected as the first female Chapter President to lead the Association. The Omaha chapter emerged in 1991.

Bratetic lists contractor education as one of her top NARI priorities in 2017, as she feels strongly that this organization is filling a very important need on behalf of homeowners in our community. That being the cultivation of knowledgeable remodeling professionals and industry experts who advocate for high quality craftsmanship and ethical business practices.

Along with Bratetic’s local involvement, she is also serving on the NARI National Board of Directors as Chair of the National Marketing & Communications Committee. With Bratetic’s leadership roles within NARI comes an opportunity to shed light on the many opportunities and need for more women to join the construction industry. Interestingly, women make the majority of the decisions in a home remodel, yet only a small percentage are part of the construction labor force. By focusing on this opportunity for diversity along with increasing awareness of NARI’s strong new branding “Remodeling Done Right,” NARI is on-set of some very exciting times and is being launched to a level like never before.

Greater Omaha NARI (www.omahaNARI.org) is a non-profit membership association dedicated to educating, training and connecting remodeling industry professionals with the resources they need for business success.

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Nebraska Mortgage Association Installs New Board, Mike Fecht Elected President The Nebraska Mortgage Association (NMA) recently elected and installed its 2017 officers and directors.

Mike Fecht of First National Bank of Omaha was installed as the NMA president for the 2017 year. Fecht is a Regional Sales Manager in the Mortgage Division and serves the Nebraska/Kansas/Iowa/Texas region. He has been with First National Bank since 1992 and is a graduate of the University of Nebraska at Kearney.

Other members of the 2017 Board include: Sara Kelley, Immediate Past President - Charter West Bank, Elkhorn; Justin Pinkerton, Vice President - Arbor Bank, Omaha; Michael Dames, Secretary - First State Bank Nebraska, Lincoln; Rob Denning, Treasurer - Guild Mortgage Company, Omaha; Lynette Arrasmith, Director - First National Bank of Omaha; Kent Hofferber, Director -Core Bank, Omaha; Shawn Lang, Director - Liberty First Credit Union, Lincoln; Cody Levinson, Director - SAC Federal Credit Union, Papillion; Alan Loos, Director - West Gate Bank, Lincoln; Mark McGregor, Director - United Guaranty Residential Insurance, Omaha; Kevin Ottman, Director - Home Federal Savings & Loan Assn., Grand Island; Michelle Sawicki, Director - Five Points Bank, Kearney; Danielle Swerczek, Director - Mortgage Guarantee Insurance Corp, Omaha.

T h e N eb r a s k a M o r t ga ge A s s o c i a t i o n ( w w w. nebraskamortgageassociation.org) is a non-profit trade association that represents mortgage lending interests of banks, mortgage bankers, mortgage brokers, credit unions, and commercial lenders.

PERSONNEL NEWS

Macy DeWispelare Steps Up as Executive Director of Twin Rivers YMCA YMCA of Greater Omaha has announced Macy DeWispelare as the Executive Director of the Twin Rivers YMCA, one of nine YMCA facilities within the YMCA of Greater Omaha association. The position was previously held by Judy Argintean, who retired from the Y at the end of 2016.

DeWispelare’s tenure with the YMCA of Greater Omaha began in 1999, working at the Welcome Center part-time. She advanced with the Armbrust YMCA’s opening in 2008, moving into the role of business manager and eventually membership director. She assumed her new role at the Twin Rivers YMCA on January 9.

YMCA of Greater Omaha, established in 1866, is a 501 C 3 not for profit organization that is governed by a volunteer board of directors with a geographic scope that covers four counties in a twostate area: Douglas and Sarpy Counties in Nebraska; and Mills and Pottawattamie Counties in Iowa, with 10 total locations. The Y provides a variety of programs that support educational achievement, health/ wellness, chronic disease intervention, early childhood education, summer day camp, water safety, refugee assimilation, special needs integration and family programs. Learn more at www.metroymca.org

Riverfront-Focused Missouri River Commons Hires First Director Rachel Halbmaier Missouri River Commons, an ambitious new public-private initiative aimed at activating the Omaha-Council Bluffs Riverfront, has named its first director. Rachel Halbmaier will lead the effort, which is being spearheaded by the Greater Omaha Chamber.

Missouri River Commons (MRC) is a coalition of leaders from business, community and government. Halbmaier will be in charge, specifically, of: • Participating in and supporting the vision, planning and development process for the Missouri riverfront • Raising awareness of the riverfront as a destination • Working with the Omaha and Council Bluffs Parks Departments to coordinate and expand activities along the riverfront • Leading the effort to develop a major festival on the riverfront “Rachel has proven she has a knack for creating and promoting unique events that people really respond to. Under her direction, we envision a vibrant, re-energized riverfront that will not only enhance our quality of life but help us attract the talent our businesses need to thrive,” said David G. Brown, president and CEO, Greater Omaha Chamber.

Donn Seidholz, chairman of the MRC coalition, said, “Riverfront revitalization has been a passion of mine for quite some time. I am thrilled Missouri River Commons has its first director in place and that it is someone as enthusiastic about activating the riverfront as Rachel Halbmaier.”

Halbmaier graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a degree in advertising and public relations. Prior to joining Missouri River Commons, she served as director of operations for Railyard Entertainment, LLC.

Acclaro Valuation Advisors Promotes Two Acclaro Valuation Advisors is pleased to announce the promotion of Nathan Esch and Tom McQueen to Associates in the firm.

Esc h joined the fir m in 2011 after graduating from Creighton University with a BS in Business Administration and Economics.

McQueen joined the firm in 2013 and earned a BBA in Business Management and a Certificate of Entrepreneurial Management from the University of Iowa. McQueen also earned a Master of Investment Management & Financial Analysis degree from Creighton University.

Both Esc h and McQueen hold the Accredited Member (AM) designation from the American Society of Appraisers.

Nathan Esch

Acclaro Valuation Advisors is a business valuation firm specializing in the valuation of closely held business interests.

For more information, please call (402) 8956222or visit www.acclarovaluation.com.

Tom McQueen

MLCDC Brings Maria Feijoo and Marcela Morales on Full-Time The Midlands Latino Community Development Corporation (MLCDC) has recently transitioned two of its staff members to full-time positions within the organization. Based on MLCDC’s 2017-19 Strategic Plan, expansion of their roles will support the expected increase in activity across all programs and community initiatives. Marcela Morales now serves as Business Development and Micro-Lending Coordinator and Maria Feijoo as Projects Development Director.

Maria Feijoo Maria Feijoo was born in Caracas, Venezuela.

She moved to the United States to pursue her college degree at Liberty University located in Lynchburg, VA, completing her Bachelor’s degree of Business Management along with a minor in Accounting in May 2012.

Maria moved to Omaha, NE right after her graduation and has been a resident ever since.

On summer 2013 she decided to continue her education by pursing an MBA – Accounting Online degree through the same university she obtained her bachelors. In her new position, Maria’s goal at MLCDC is to provide others Marcela Morales the knowledge and skills that would equip them as individuals and entrepreneurs.

Originally from Veracruz, Mexico, Marcela Morales moved to the United States when she was six years old. She graduated from Creighton University with a bachelor’s degree in International Business with a minor in French, which she can speak in conversation along with proficiency in the English and Spanish languages. Prior to her new position with MLCDC, Marcela worked as an intern with the organization while attending Creighton from 2009-12, and most recently served as Coordinator of the Childcare Development Program in 2016. Marcela also has three years of experience with consumer lending at Centris Federal Credit Union and several years of experience in business development at MLCDC. To find out more about MLCDC, please call (402) 933-4466 or visit www.midlandslatinocdc.org.

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NON-PROFIT NEWS

Boys Town Unveils Hall of History Redesign B oy s Tow n’s Hall of History recently unveiled The Dream Continues display. It is the first major upgrade since the museum was established in 1986 and was created by renowned museum designer, Jerry Eisterhold. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Feb. 9.

The new display includes the work of the five directors of Boys Town to solve the changing issues facing Americans children and families throughout the decades and highlight the many reasons why children and families need the care of Boys Town programs through interactive video presentations, images, and other materials. The redesign also features a map of America showing the sites operated by the Home, the history and programs of the Boys Town National Research Hospital, and a centennial layout that will feature the Boys Town Centennial Commemorative coins which will be released next month.

In 1986 at the bequest from the Henry Hess estate, the old dining hall, designed by Fr. Flanagan in 1939, was used to create the Hall of History museum. The original exhibits feature the Oscar presented to Spencer Tracy for his portrayal of Father Flanagan in the movie Boys Town and thousands of other images and artifacts that present the early history of Boys Town.

For 100 years, Boys Town (www.BoysTown.org) has been a beacon of hope for America’s children and families through its life-changing youth care and health care programs. In 2016, almost 500,000 children and families across the United States were impacted by Boys Town programs.

Cross Training Center, Cross Electronic Recycling Team Up With Proseeds Cross Training Center is now listed among the local causes one can support through Proseeds, a platform where consumers can make purchases through companies, with a percentage going towards the causes that are most important to them—all within their own community. Sister organization Cross Electronic Recycling is also separately listed.

Now you can automatically support Cross Training Center and Cross Electronic Recycling for free whenever you eat, shop, and play!

Join Proseeds online at www.giveproseeds.com and every time you visit a participating local business, 5% of your purchase will be automatically donated back to your selected non-profits – without costing you an extra dime. It’s that easy!

By signing up it will help Cross Training Center and Cross Electronic Recycling to provide more training and support services and enable the recycling of more electronic waste items that have environmental fees (such as old TVs and alkaline batteries). These initiatives have a positive impact right here in the Omaha Metro.

Cross Training Center’s mission is to provide Solutions to Poverty through Work. Those served have experienced setbacks in life due to incarceration, homelessness, mental health disorders, human trafficking, challenging circumstances and generational poverty.

Cross Training Center works to empower and equip them with skills and knowledge through character development, vocational training and real hands-on work experience. Learn more at www.crosstc.com.

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Midlands Community Foundation’s 2017 Reflection Ball Raises More Than $120K M i d l a n d s C o m m u n i t y Foundation’s 2017 Re f l e c t i o n B a l l , held on January 21 at the Embassy Suites in LaVista, raised more than $120,000. An estimated 500 guests attended the gala. Net proceeds from the event will be donated to the MCF General Fund.

Through MCF’s grants program, proceeds will support the needs of non-profit organizations s e r v i n g S a r py and Cass counties in the areas of a r t , c o m m u n i t y, e c o n o m i c development, education, health and human services.

At the event, the 2017 Reflection Award was presented to Va l e r i e a n d D o n B e l l i n o fo r their comm unity involvement and p h i l a n t h ro py.

“We appreciate their vision and dedication to o u r c o m m u n i t y, particularly through all they have done in the area of economic development and their support of extracurricular activities for our youth,” said Tonee G ay, exe c u t i ve director.

Award Recipients (L-R) Tonee Gay, Executive Director, Midlands Community Foundation; Patrick and Kathy Sullivan, Honorary Chairs; Don and Valerie Bellino, 2017 Reflection Award Recipients.

Reflection Ball Committee (L-R) Front Row: Ken Summerfield, Bindy Frederick, Martha Sopinski, Donna Wilcox, Mary Gawecki, Kyle Black, Diane Knicky.

Back Row: Brenda Carlson, Jan Davis, Lori Pankonin, Pattie Iske, Carrie Krist, Kris Zey, Jackie Davis, Leanne Sotak, Jill Govier.

Past Reflection Award Recipients (L-R) Front Row: Karen Olson, Evonne Williams, Joann Fricke, Marian Fricke, Cherie Metschke, Kyle Black, Donna Wilcox, Lori Pankonin, Lisa Strohmyer, Valerie Bellino. Back Row: Al Schmid, Dr. Michael Westcott, Ken Molzer, Bill Williams, Milt Fricke, Charles Fricke, Dr. Harlan Metschke, Dr. Rick Black, Dr. Chuck Wilcox, Dave Pankonin, Dr. Jeffry Strohmyer, Don Bellino.

As 2017 marked MCF’s 35th Annual Reflection Ball, Karla Rupiper, MCF Board president and Mary Gawecki, MCF Board past president recognized all past Reflection Award recipients who were in attendance.

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

For more information, contact Diane Knicky, Director of Operations and Public Relations, at (402) 991-8027 or visit www.

MidlandsCommunity.org.

NON-PROFIT NEWS

Jennie Edmundson Foundation Announces Nursing Scholarship Opportunity

Save The Date: Kids Can! Community Center Can Do Awards Luncheon Set for May 23rd

2017 nursing sc holarships are now available!

The Jennie Edmundson Hospital Foundation offers nursing scholarships each year to qualified candidates. Nursing students pursuing a nursing degree towards an Associate Degree, Bachelors, RN to BSN, or Masters in Nursing program may apply.

Kids Can! Community Center is proud to announce the Can Do Awards Luncheon will be held on Tuesday, May 23rd, 2017 at Century Link Omaha.

This year’s keynote speaker will be Sunil Khandbahale, an award-winning senior management executive, innovator, and entrepreneur.

Founder of Global Prosperity Foundation – Early Education Impact, Sunil instituted a preschool facility for children of farmers and workers in India with a capacity to serve 200 students. Along with the keynote presentation, several community members will be acknowledged as Can Do award recipients for their work in our community. Please visit www.kidscanomaha.org for more information about this event.

Kids Can! Community Center is a youth service agency with the mission of empowering children and parents to reach their full potential. For more information, please contact Josh Gillman at (402) 731-6988, via email at jgillman@kidscanomaha.com, or visit the website at www.kidscanomaha.org.

The scholarship applications are available the first of February of each year with the deadline date for submitting completed applications the first week in April. The recipients of these nursing scholarships are notified the beginning of June and are awarded for the next fall academic year.

Please contact Sandy Westphal at (712) 396-6059 or email sandy.westphal@nmhs.org to receive an application or for any questions regarding the scholarships or the application/selection process. Visit www.JEHFoundation.org to find out more about the Jennie Edmundson Foundation.

Alzheimer’s Association’s Annual Statewide Growing Hope Gala Raises $70K The Alzheimer’s Association raised $70,000 during its annual statewide Growing Hope Gala on February 11, 2017 at N e b r a s k a Innovation Campus in Lincoln.

The Gala traveled back in time to the Roaring Twenties, complete with Pictured from L-R: Gala attendees Jenn Gjerde, feather head Tyler Gjerde, Megan Myers, Nate Emhke, pieces, fur coats Megan Conway, a​ nd Rob Tualaulelei. and flapper dresses. The event featured a cocktail hour, live music, silent auction and Brewsky’s Blazin’ Pianos.

The 2017 Courage Award was given to Brad Anderson of Lincoln.

Anderson lost his wife and high school sweetheart, LuAnne, to semantic dementia in late January. When he was not caring for her, he was donating his time and talent to the Alzheimer’s Association. Anderson is an Ambassador and Advocate, speaking to local and national groups and members of Congress. He is also the team captain of LuAnne’s Clan and raises thousands of dollars each year at the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Anderson was recognized for his efforts to promote a greater understating and awareness of Alzheimer’s disease, dispelling public misperceptions and moving people to take action. The award is sponsored by the Association’s partner, First National Bank.

The Association would like to thank the more than 250 guests who helped to make the Growing Hope Gala a success. A special thank you to all sponsors, especially Platinum Sponsor Pen-Link and Gold Sponsors CountryHouse Residences and The Arbors. Together, more than $70,000 was raised that will go directly towards Alzheimer’s care, support and research.

2017 Heartland Family Service ‘Carnival of Love’ Gala Raises Record $315K for Families About 600 guests came to revel in Rio for the Heartland Family Service “Carnival of Love” Gala at the Embassy Suites-La Vista on Saturday, Feb. 11, Pictured from L-R: Gala co-chairs Julie Gibsonhelping to Beier and JoAnn Gould; honorary chairs Kacey and raise a record Joe Lempka; HFS President and CEO John Jeanetta; $315,023 to and Friends Guild President Melissa Steffes. serve the most vulnerable children and families in our community. The new record shattered not this year’s goal of $285,000 but also the previous record of $264,000 set last year.

Guests were transported to the famous Rio Carnival with masks, feathers, beautiful floral centerpieces, plank signs pointing the way to libations, and several casino games. Latin ballroom dancers provided entertainment during dinner.

During the program, Heartland Family Service President and CEO John Jeanetta gave an overview of the agency, and Friends Guild President Melissa Steffes recognized Gala chairs Julie GibsonBeier and JoAnn Gould and honorary chairs Joe and Kacey Lempka. The evening ended with a rowdy live auction and guest speaker Flora Shukis, an 89-year-old senior who has attended the Heartland Family Service Generations Center for 10 years.

As Heartland Family Service’s largest fundraiser of the year, the “Carnival of Love” Gala helps create the path to a better tomorrow for the over 30,000 individuals the agency serves each year from more than 15 locations in eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa.

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NON-PROFIT NEWS

Nebraska Community Blood Bank Seeking Blood Drive Coordinators

Youth Emergency Services Golf Outing Helps Keep Youth Out of the Rough

“I love volunteering as a blood drive coordinator!” Tanya Lebsock, Assistant Vice President for the Union Bank & Trust Investment and Trust Division Compliance (UBT), has volunteered as a blood drive coordinator with Nebraska Community Blood Bank (NCBB) for more than 15 years.

Diagnosed with a melanoma in 2000, Tanya is unable to donate blood. She felt serving as a blood drive coordinator was the perfect opportunity to still make a difference.

Union Bank & Trust has since increased their participation from two blood drives per year to now hosting two drives simultaneously at two branch locations 6-7 times per year. Since 2012, employees have collectively donated more than 1,100 units of blood.

Giving back is part of Union Bank’s culture, and they accommodate schedules so employees at all branches have time to participate. On-site bloodmobiles make it convenient for many employees to simply walk out to the parking lot and donate.

NCBB partners with businesses, organizations, civic groups and schools to host more than 500 blood drives each year. New blood drive sponsors are needed every day. NCBB recruitment representatives make the role of coordinators as easy as possible by helping pick dates and providing all the materials needed to help recruit and schedule donors.

If you are interested in hosting a blood drive or learning more, please visit NCBB.ORG or email blooddrives@ncbb.org.

Youth Emergency Services’ (YES) annual golf outing presented by Union Pacific Railroad will take place on Monday, May 1, 2017 at The Players Club at Deer Creek, 12101 Deer Creek Dr., Omaha, NE 68142. This annual event raises needed funds to support the programs offered by YES to homeless and near homeless youth in Omaha.

Promo Code Earns Victory Riding Academy $10 Donation

The Omaha Home for Boys School recently ac hieved a momentous milestone.

Students at the high school have earned more than 200 school credits so far during the 2016-2017 school year. This record-setting pace surpasses the 174 total credits earned the previous school year.

The Omaha Equestrian Foundation will donate $10 to Victory Riding Academy for every full price, single session ticket purchased for the FEI World Cup Finals using the promo code VRA17.

This is Nebraska’s first professional world championship that will bring approximately 70 of the world’s top rider’s to the CenturyLink Center to compete March 29 to April 2. Twenty-five countries are expected to be represented at the competition.

The event will feature two Olympic disciplines: jumping and dressage, each with five different events.

For those who want a break from all the horse action, the event offers more than 140 vendors for shopping, live music and dining, educational opportunities and exhibits, and entertainment.

Single session tickets go on sale Wednesday, Feb. 1 at 10 a.m. Tickets can be purchased using the code VRA17 at ticketmaster.com or at the CenturyLink Center box office. Additional event information can be found at www.omahaworldcup2017.com.

VRA will use the money raised to build an indoor arena, which will allow them to provide therapy programs year round to veterans, military, first responders, their families and the community.

For more information, please contact Tony Barnes, Victory Riding Academy executive director, at (402) 512-1817 or by email at info@victoryride.org.

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The event is a four-person, best ball scramble with a shotgun start at noon. The 18-hole tournament will close with dinner and a presentation in the clubhouse. Throughout the morning, golfers will have the opportunity to enter to win raffle prizes and participate in side games. Additionally, lunch will be provided, and registration is limited. Team sponsorships start at $1,600 per foursome or $425 per individual. Please contact Ashley Flater, aflater@yesomaha. org, for more information about sponsorship levels, team benefits, and registration.

Youth Emergency Services (YES) has been providing critically-needed programs and resources to homeless and at-risk youth in Omaha for more than 40 years. YES operates a street outreach program, an emergency shelter, a transitional living program, and a maternity home to benefit homeless youth in our community. YES helped more than 2,000 youth find shelter, food and other necessary support in 2015-16.

More information about YES can be found at www.yesomaha.org.

Omaha Home for Boys School Reaches Student Achievement Milestone

The addition of a third teacher to the staff and the opening of an additional classroom with a study hall environment are both factors that have led to the school’s success.

“The study hall environment gives students more freedom and teaches them to make choices that will have a positive impact on their path to graduating,” said Dr. Anthony Dancer, Education Manager of School Operations. “It provides a lesson in responsibility that will last far beyond their time in the classroom.”

The implementation of an incentive program rewarding students for reaching benchmarks has also helped students gain a stronger focus on their school work.

“Students are eager to earn incentives because for some it’s the first time they’ve been in an environment where they’re receiving positive reinforcement,” said Dr. Dancer.

The school serves young men in the Home’s residential care program and aims to develop positive character traits while also providing educational programming.

Please visit www.OmahaHomeForBoys.org to learn more.

NON-PROFIT NEWS

Save The Date: Children’s Scholarship Fund of Omaha to Host 2017 CHANCE Luncheon

Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska Eliminates 15 Refugee Resettlement Positions

The Children’s Scholarship Fund of Omaha is excited to announce the 2017 CHANCE Lunc heon will take place on June 7, 2017 from 11:30am - 1:00pm at the CenturyLink Center. Drawing a full house of attendees each year, the annual CHANCE Luncheon celebrates the work of Children’s Scholarship Fund of Omaha in the community. This year’s keynote speaker will be Cardinal Blase Cupich, and honorary Chairs are Mike and Nancy McCarthy. During the event Rising Star awards will be given to current students who demonstrate leadership qualities, overcome obstacles, and foster community within their schools. All proceeds from the luncheon will provide funding for K-8 scholarships.

Children’s Scholarship Fund of Omaha provides partial tuition assistance scholarships so children from low-income families can have the opportunity to attend the private or parochial K-8 education of their choice. CSF empowers parents to choose their children’s school during the time their educational foundation is being established. The organization is destination neutral and has no religious affiliation— scholarship recipients attend approximately 80 different schools across Omaha and northeast Nebraska.

For more information on Children’s Scholarship Fund of Omaha, please visit www.csfomaha.org or contact Mary Boyle at (402) 8194990 or Mary.Boyle@csfomaha.org.

On Wednesday, F eb r u a r y 1 5 , 2017, the largest refugee resettlement organization in Nebraska, Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska (LFS), gave notice of the elimination of 15 employee positions in the organization’s 90-day federally funded refugee resettlement program in Omaha and Lincoln. Seven employees were reassigned or offered vacant positions within other programs of the organization.

Sarpy Chamber YPG Supermarket Sweep Supports Tri-City Food Pantry The Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce recently held their first ever Supermarket Sweep fundraising e ve n t , h o s t e d by one of their groups, the Sarpy Chamber Young Professionals. It was held at HyVee in Shadow Lake Towne Center and benefited the Tri-City Food Pantry.

Much like the classic Supermarket Sweep game show, contestants raced through the aisles of Hy-Vee with a clock counting down the seconds as they had to find the correct items on their assigned list. Many Sarpy County businesses and organizations registered teams, completely filling up spots with a total of 30 teams of 2 to 3 members competing.

All proceeds from team registration fees went to the Tri-City Food Pantry, which serves people struggling with hunger in the communities of Ralston, La Vista, Papillion and surrounding areas. Donations at the event were also accepted, bringing the total funds raised to just over $700. Food items were also collected.

The enthusiastic feedback has the Sarpy Chamber eager to expand the Supermarket Sweep Fundraiser and offer more events like this in the future.

For more information on the Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce’s events and groups, please visit www.SarpyChamber.org.

The President’s Executive Order, “Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States” issued January 27, 2017 reduced the number of refugees to be resettled in the U.S. from 110,000 to 50,000 during federal fiscal year 2017 (October 1, 2016 to September 30, 2017). By March 3, 2017 it is estimated that 39,000 refugees of the 50,000 will already have been resettled. The Executive Order also halted refugee resettlement to the U.S. for 120 days.

During the halt in arrivals, LFS will focus on strengthening its post-90day services to refugees who already call Nebraska home. At the LFS International Center of the Heartland (ICH) in Omaha, refugees are served no matter how long they have lived in Nebraska.

Businesses and organizations interested in hiring affected staff – some of whom are refugees – are encouraged to contact the LFS Human Resources Department at (402) 978-5665 to connect with potential candidates.

Members of the community can support the ICH in Omaha or post-90day services in Lincoln by making a donation at www.LFSneb.org or signing up to volunteer via email at WelcomeRefugees@LFSneb.org.

CSI Guild Welcomes 25 New Members The Child Saving Institute Guild welcomed 25 new members during its February meeting — Jenny Batko, Cassy Braun, Leigh Campbell, Leah Carlson, Mikki Chullino, Elizabeth Darling, Jill Ehlers, Louise Finkenbinder, Liz Fogle, Maureen Fulton, Jenny Hamlin, Judi Huff, Laura Kinney, Cameron Kroll, Theresa Lawson, Bethany Meek, Gina McDevitt, Maria Minderman, Kimberly Parks, Gina Patrick, Kari Peters, Mary Senff, Carissa Schrager, Grace Spomer, and Claire Stevens.

Executive committee members include: Tiffany Wade, president; Lisa Lehan, president-elect; Micayla Lee, vice president for membership; Seirra Seely, assistant vice president for membership; Mary Senff, vice president for fundraising; Zoe Johnson, corresponding secretary; and Addie Hollingsworth, past-president/advisor. Committee chairs include: Stacey Patterson, Dough in the Toe; Julie Shaner, Kim Bachman, and Zoe Johnson, Golf Fore Kids; Micayla Lee and Emily Dugger for PurseOnatilies; Heather Vanourney, Touch-a-Truck; Angela Harnly, Substitute Santa; Kelli Whiteing, CSI Encouragement; and Jenny Deitloff, Kids 4 Kids.

The mission of CSI’s Guild is to serve as liaisons to the community on behalf of the organization. The Guild hosts two fundraising events each year —Golf Fore Kids (June 19, 2017 at the Players Club at Deer Creek) and PurseOnalities (October 4, 2017). The Guild also sponsors two fundraising mailings each year — Dough in the Toe in February and Substitute Santa in November and December. In September, the Guild holds the free, family-friendly “Touch-a-Truck” event in the parking lot of First Data’s 67th and Pacific Street offices.

To find out more, visit childsaving.org or contact Anna Willey at (402) 504-3664 or awilley@childsaving.org.

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HEALTH NEWS

CenterPointe Announces Expansion of Pivotal Treatment Services to Omaha Area

American Heart Association Encourages Everyone to Move More This April

Beginning February 1, CenterPointe will provide long-term, residential co-occurring treatment and short-term residential treatment for people living with mental health and substance use issues in the Omaha community. The expansion represents a 25% growth and meets a major strategic goal for the organization.

This April the American Heart Association is encouraging Americans to get Healthy For Good™ by being more physically active. The annual National Walking Day celebration has been expanded to a month-long initiative as part of this ‘movement.’

Healthy For Good™ is designed to inspire lasting change through small, simple steps in four key areas: Eat smart. Add color. Move more. Be well.

The goal is for adults to get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise or 75 minutes per week of vigorous exercise (or a combination of both). For kids, it’s at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day.

Being physically active on a regular basis is important to promote overall health and prevent heart disease and stroke, which are responsible for more deaths in the U.S. than all forms of cancer combined. Research has shown that every hour of regular exercise can add about two hours to life expectancy, even if you don’t start until midlife. Plus, regular physical activity can help relieve depression, manage stress, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, improve sleep, and prevent weight gain.

This April, commit to move more as an individual, family, community, school or company. Get your free toolkit of resources at heart.org/ MoveMoreToolkit. Or, hold an event (30-minute fun walk, educational event, fitness fair, etc.) and/or four-week activity challenge!

Join the national movement at heart.org/HealthyForGood and contribute to the conversation on social media using #HealthyForGood.

CenterPointe helps the people they serve get better, sooner, for longer. For more information on the Omaha expansion, visit www. centerpointe.org.

Record Turnout Among Highlights of UNMC’s 7th Annual Skate-a-thon for Parkinson’s A record total of 640 skaters participated in the seventh annual UNMC Skate-a-thon for Parkinson’s, the 24-hour skating event held annually at the UNMC Ice Rink. This marked the third consecutive year the event has topped 500 skaters, and the first time it has exceeded the 600 mark. Six skaters – Chris Rush, Mike Schoch, Ronnie Stark, Eric Winner, Abby and Jim Janicki – skated all 24 hours.

The event is held in memory of event founder Colleen Wuebben, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2005 at the age of 52 and died in 2013 at the age of 60. Proceeds go toward clinical and basic science Parkinson’s research at UNMC as well as Parkinson’s Nebraska, an organization started by the Wuebben family to provide affordable exercise, education and services to improve quality of life for persons with Parkinson’s. The final total is projected to reach $15,000, bringing the total net proceeds for the seven skate-a-thons at UNMC to over $170,000.

Major sponsors this year included: Acadia Pharmaceuticals, Masimore, Magnuson, and Associates, P.C., and Heritage Communities. Other sponsors included: Anderson Auto Care, Anderson Food Shops, Lexus of Omaha, Greg and Lisa Daake, Rochester Armored Car, UNICO Group, and O’Malley Consulting.

Nebraska Cancer Specialists Recertified by Largest Oncology Society in U.S. Nebraska Cancer Specialists (NCS) has received reaccreditation by the QOPI Certification Program (QCP™), an affiliate of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). QCP builds on ASCO’s Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (QOPI®), providing a three-year certification for outpatient hematology-oncology practices that meet nationally recognized standards for quality cancer care.

To become certified, practices must submit to an evaluation of their entire practice and documentation standards. NCS first achieved certification in October 2013. In applying for recertification, NCS participated in a voluntary comprehensive site assessment against clearly specified standards that are consistent with national guidelines and was successful in meeting the standards and objectives of QCP. The QCP seal designates practices that not only scored above the threshold on the key QOPI quality measures, but met chemotherapy safety standards established by ASCO and the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS).

QOPI and the QCP are projects dedicated to innovative quality improvement programs. For more information, please visit www. instituteforquality.org/qopi-qcp.

Nebraska Cancer Specialists is a subspecialty practice of 13 collaborating physicians who are devoted to oncology and hematology, providing state of the art medical treatment and compassionate care in both outpatient offices and hospital settings.

For more information, please visit nebraskacancer.com.

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Children’s Expands Lincoln Presence, Moving Specialty Clinics to Madonna Children’s Hospital & Medical Center will ex p a n d i t s presence and services in Lincoln by relocating its specialty clinics to leased space on the Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals’ Lincoln campus.

The 12,000-square foot space will accommodate more specialties and physicians, tripling the capacity available at Children’s Specialty Pediatric Clinic at 86th and Pioneers Boulevard. The move is scheduled for this fall.

Patient volumes have steadily climbed at Children’s Lincoln outpatient clinic facility since it opened in 2008, ultimately outgrowing the space.

In 2016, the location saw more than 2,100 patients, logging more than 5,400 clinic visits. Meanwhile, many Lincoln families still travel to Children’s Specialty Pediatric Center in Omaha to receive care; last year, around 2,000 patients were seen from Lancaster County alone.

Children’s new outpatient specialty clinic at Madonna’s Lincoln Campus will be located at 2121 South 56th Street. Madonna purchased the building this year, with remodeling expected to begin in April with completion by this fall, when Children’s opens its specialty clinic space.

“The purchase of this building is part of our strategic plan, to partner with exceptional health care providers to continuously offer exceptional care for patients,” said Victor Witkowicz, executive vice president and CFO of Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals. “After opening the Omaha Campus this past fall, this project with Children’s allows our Lincoln Campus to continue to expand.”

In its Lincoln outpatient clinic, Children’s currently offers 10 pediatric specialty services provided by nearly 30 physicians: Cardiology, Endocrinology, HEROES (Pediatric Weight Management), Neurology, Neurosurgery, Orthopedics, Pulmonology, Rheumatology, Surgery and Urology. With the new, larger location, Children’s plans to bring other specialty services to Lincoln within the year; however, no specific clinics or physicians are confirmed at this time.

ASK THE EXPERT

by Jonathan Larsen, Owner | Larsen & Larsen Auction Co. 605-376-7102 | larsenauctioneering.com

Expert Strategies to Increase Your Auction Profits Q. Why should I hire an auctioneer who specializes in benefits if I can get my neighbor to do it for free?

A. It takes months of professional strategizing to maximize the return on a gala event, not to mention the hours of the venue, food, volunteers, etc. This investment in time is too valuable to toss to someone willing to do it for free while crossing your fingers and hoping for the best results. This is like building a formula one racecar and letting anybody that has a license race it for you. Sure they know how to drive, but can they pass on the inside doing 140mph?

Always hire a professional auctioneer certified to conduct a charity gala.

Be sure they can work with you from beginning offering consultations to ensure you reach your goals. They must be able to guide you through the process so you can trust their ability to be your ambassador - raising you the most money possible. It is the only money you will spend to guarantee a monetary return.

Q. Every year we have more and more silent auction items, but we are earning less. Why? A. Less is more. Too many items tells attendees they are going to get a deal. Make your silent auction feel like a Christian Dior boutique with fewer specialty items and less like a tag sale of bargains. After all, this is for your charity and business have generously made the items available so you can raise more money. In the end, many bidders will contribute but only one will be a winner per item. Make it count.

Q. How do we get the right people to attend our event?

A. A lot of times we think that if we want to make a lot of money we

need to invite the wealthiest people we know. That isn’t always the case.

Sometimes your biggest donors are those that have either been assisted by your organization at some time, or that has a real passion for it. I would rather have 100 people that are passionate about the cause than have 600 random people in the audience. A good practice is to have some of your highest bidders and donors invite their friends and family.

Build your event from the inside out.

Q. We have a fundraiser event, but by the time the auction starts a lot of people are starting to leave. What are your suggestions?

A. There are two types of events! Parties with a fundraiser attached to it, and true fundraisers. An event where the auction is not the main focus is just a social gathering. These do not to raise as much money since the money-making aspect of the event seems like an afterthought.

Then there are fundraisers that have all of the money making components as the main event. For example, if your event is 4 hours and you want to raise $150k you will have to generate $37,500 per hour or $625 per minute. That means having a guest speak for 20 minutes it would cost $12,500 in lost revenue that would need to be made up. When you start thinking about your event in those terms, you can start to increase your revenue drastically.

Jonathan R. Larsen is a professional auctioneer that works with organizations all over the country partnering with them to increase their awareness and revenue so that they can continue to be a positive impact on those that need it. You can learn more at www.larsenauctioneering.com or e-mail jonathan@larsenauctioneering. com and mention this article and get a free 30-minute consultation about your event.

MARCH 2017 Strictly Business

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Wellness in the workplace has become the focus of many, for employers and employees alike. Now that we know so much more about the importance of a healthy lifestyle, and one that’s well-rounded in every aspect of our lives, that it only makes sense to capitalize on the numerous benefits of anything contributing to that end goal.

If you’re interested in ideas to incorporate into your workday or to implement in your workplace, they can be found everywhere here in the Omaha Metro. The diversity of resources covers the whole spectrum of wellness and accounts for the diversity of working environments and conditions that are present. By doing what works best for you, you’ll be at your very best at and outside of work; the same holds true for a workplace that values wellness.

Vitality…

Is defined as the state of being strong and active; energy. Something we all need at work, that’s for sure. As employees, we hope to be this unfailingly, and as employers, we hope to have this in every member of our team in order to perform at top levels.

This has everything to do with a person’s health and wellbeing. Key components are nutrition and exercise, but in truth, there are so many other things that can be utilized to achieve this feeling of zest and passion that guide our drive, productivity, and ultimately what we are able to achieve. We’ve gathered a few of the ideas we’ve found to be less prominent but well worth incorporating into the wellness offerings in the workplace.

B12 Shots You may have heard the buzz about B12, and it’s well-founded. This is a vitamin that plays a key role in the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system, the formation of red blood cells, and is involved in the metabolism of every cell in the human body. At levels only slightly lower than normal, a range of symptoms such as fatigue, depression, and poor memory may be experienced. Many of us aren’t getting our daily recommended intake of vitamins and minerals, so aside from taking a daily multivitamin, the option of B12 injections administered conveniently in the workplace has become attractive to many.

Chair Massages Massage is another technique that can be performed in the workplace and has numerous health benefits. A quick 15-minute massage gets the blood flowing, which is a natural way to mimic the effects of caffeine.

It can be easily targeted to each individual’s specific needs and is refreshing and rejuvenating, similar to taking a quick nap. Comparable to naps, keep in mind that the amount of time of a massage will determine its effectiveness. While 10-15 minutes is ideal for workplace massages, 20 minutes or more will relax you more than you’d want in that particular environment.

NOW YOU CAN Success in physical rehabilitation, much like

building a hospital, doesn’t happen overnight. Both take vision, planning and partnerships. Our team of clinical experts, world-class research and state-ofthe-art equipment, gives us the ability to respond to the need in Omaha. Madonna changes the conversation to NOW YOU CAN.

madonna.org | 800.676.5448

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Strictly Business MARCH 2017

In short, massage calms the nervous system for a period of time, so afterward you’ll feel energized, a lift in your mood, sharper brain function, more focused, and a release of all of that tension and stress that tends to build up as the day goes by. It’s an employee benefit that’s fun, enjoyable, and has real health benefits that will positively impact your team and your business.

Drinking Water Gathering around the water cooler dates way back, that’s for sure. That history alone suggests the importance of providing your employees with a clean source of drinking water is significant. “Savvy employers know they need to provide great tasting h2o, keeping their team hydrated and performing to full potential,” says Eric Schnakenberg of Aqua Systems of Nebraska. “New automatic water and ice dispensers are the way to go.

You’ve probably used a typewriter in the past, but are you still using one? Chances are Eric Schnakenberg you’ve upgraded your technology. Those old Aqua Systems of Nebraska machines still work, but there are much more efficient ways to get a message out. Water coolers are no different. Eliminate the antiquated method of using bottles, set up an automatic dispenser, and remove the water cooler from your to-do list. You can still gather around the cooler, just without the hassles of managing it.”

Healthcare…

Is important to us all, and having access to it or being able to provide it as an employee benefit at a reasonable cost is a concern for many. While it seems that there’s no end in sight to the uncertainty surrounding the future of our health care system in the U.S., it’s encouraging to see many healthcare and insurance professionals take a proactive role in adapting to the current conditions. These are people right here among us who are at the forefront of change for the better. It all starts with knowing they are out there and then it’s just a matter of looking into what they have to offer and deciding if it makes sense for your specific situation and needs.

Take early detection screening for example. In many different specialty areas, this has been proven to be a critical factor in catching serious cancers before they progress too far for the best possible recovery outcomes. Particularly with the most common types of cancer, if caught early enough, a person can go on to lead a full, healthy, and productive life thanks to the development of methods used to identify the signs that present but may not have manifested into symptoms that are noticeable.

Employers are catching on quickly to the fact that they can play a part in protecting the health of their employees in this area.

“Something as simple as educating your employees about the importance of early screening at a certain age and the options that are available to them has the potential to mitigate the exorbitant costs a company could incur from the loss of a key team member’s contributions and from the treatment process, especially for SMBs that are self-insured,” advises Daniel Cinotto of FirstScan. “Our area of specialty is prostate cancer screening through an innovative, proprietary MRI procedure that’s the first of its kind as it’s Daniel Cinotto completely non-invasive. Prostate cancer is the FirstScan #2 killer in the U.S. for men behind lung cancer, but so many men out there are avoiding the screening process for a variety of reasons from fear of a diagnosis to anxiety about undergoing the traditional screening procedure, which is unpleasant. Our goal is to address those concerns so they become less prevalent, and to offer something that changes lives and workplaces for the better. With the potential widespread impact of this disease on the workforce across our nation, and within our local businesses caught directly in that statistical net, getting out in front of this is well-advised.

While it’s still considered to be somewhat of a progressive approach, I can assure you it will become commonplace down the line. If you have

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a workplace wellness program, this deserves a place in it. I’d encourage anyone interest to contact us to find out more about the procedure and how it could be incorporated into your workplace wellness offerings.”

For businesses, offering a competitive benefits package that includes respectable health insurance coverage is one of the top drivers of employee retention. Finding the right fit for a company’s bottom line is an important part of the equation too. As such, the help of a professional advisor is key.

Benefit Professionals, Inc. represents all major insurance carriers while brokering group benefits coverage. The firm works with both large and small corporations locally, constantly exploring new avenues for insurance products in a proactive effort to combat rising healthcare costs and stay ahead of the ever-changing regulations in the insurance industry.

“As the link between your company and the insurance carrier, we’re able to put together a competitive benefits package composed of any of the following: fully-insured medical, self-funded medical, life and AD&D, Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRA), dental, vision, shortterm disability, long-term disability, Flexible Spending Accounts (Section 125), and also a variety of wellness offerings to supplement,” advises Lori Fischer of Benefit Professionals, Inc. “We can also offer our expert guidance Lori Fischer on COBRA compliance, state continuation Benefit Professionals, Inc. compliance, HIPAA compliance, Medicare Part D compliance, and with the completion of the necessary forms. Many employers are not aware of all of the compliance requirements that exist when offering a group medical plan, especially when dealing with Health Care Reform. As their broker, our clients can rely on us to keep them completely informed, build a proactive plan and be their go-to resource throughout the process.”

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Plan…

Is defined as a detailed formulation of a program of action; a method for achieving an end. To achieve your goal of having the healthiest, happiest, and most productive employees on your workforce, you’ll need to make sure there’s a plan in place because consistency is key. Wellness isn’t just a one-time thing; it’s an ongoing process of actively doing things that support that goal. The same applies at the individual level. Incorporating wellness programs and offerings of any kind in the work environment is a step in the right direction, but keep in mind that the right combination of variables is necessary for those efforts to be most effective.

“Madonna Fit for Work helps employers reduce costs through a continuum of services that promote employee health, wellness, and safety,” says Karen Rehm of Madonna Fit For Work. “Evidence suggests that a holistic and strategic integration of occupational health, safety, and workplace wellness helps to better protect and improve worker health. Our injury prevention and injury management programs are led by medical experts and our corporate wellness programs focus on improving the overall health and wellbeing of employees Karen Rehm through integrative initiatives. Comprehensive Madonna programs are tailored to meet the needs of each organization and each employee.

Annual cost savings has been on the rise for most businesses that implement a results-based wellness program. A results-based program provides the opportunity for individuals with minimal health risks to maintain their low-risk level and individuals with multiple health risks to decrease and improve their number of risks within a given time frame.

Focusing on the overall wellbeing of your workforce is gaining popularity too. Emphasizing a safer work environment and offering year-round wellness programs as part of your annual wellness initiatives can reduce a company’s number of work-related injuries, boost productivity, employee

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retention, and improved health.”

She further emphasizes, “Senior leadership support is key to building a culture of wellness in addition to an effective wellness program.

Administrative support helps establish expectations and next steps to becoming eligible for cost savings through discounted insurance premiums.

Establishing an integrated wellness committee is also beneficial in designing effective programs. Data collection and analysis helps you learn more about your employees’ current state of wellbeing and helps narrow your focus based on aggregate and cohort trending data.

Implementing an on-site stretching program can help prevent and manage the number of work-related injuries. Establishing a relationship with an occupational health partner can assist you and your organization in streamlining processes, enhancing communications and managing details pertaining to injury prevention, injury reporting and treatment and drug screen results. Madonna Fit for Work offers a Corporate Services Hotline where you can call when you have questions or need follow-up services.

Madonna Fit for Work partners with local businesses to help coordinate injury management needs in addition to establishing a comprehensive wellness program - a magical combination for a healthier workforce!

Fit for Work offers on-site health screenings, fitness testing, tobacco cessation classes designed for individuals who smoke, chew and vape, pre-employment screens, physical demands validations, functional capacity evaluations and on-site wellness programs. Consider Fit for Work as your one-stop shop for your wellness needs.”

As the saying goes, health is wealth, and that rings true on both sides of the employer/employee coin. As you can see from the suggestions we’ve included, there are a wealth of different options out there that are well worth considering no matter what constraints are present. You may not be able to do a lot, but you can still do a little, because anything is better than nothing. Cheers to good health in all areas of our personal and professional lives in 2017!

Every Child Deserves A Chance To Succeed

Education

Heartland School’s Mission: To provide educational services to students (K-12),

We’re lucky to live in a community that strongly values and supports education, and as such, one that’s who are verified behaviorally disordered, diverse in its programs and offerings available to students of all ages. From fantastic programs that prepare in a therapeutic success-based program. little learners for the classroom, to our excellent public and private K-12 schools, and on to prestigious postsecondary institutions and other notable continuing education programs, there’s no shortage of opportunities Visit Heartland3.org for more info!

5731 S 108th St. | 402.393.0345 to learn and grow personally and professionally.

Particularly for those who intend to pursue a college degree of some sort, there’s so much diversity just in that area alone. With the uptick in student population has come exciting growth and expansion that will bring even more opportunity to future generations.

Since business is our forte, we consulted with Kathy Farrell, Interim Dean at the UNL College of Business Administration and State Farm Professor of Finance for the inside scoop. She definitely didn’t disappoint, providing a detailed account of what’s been in the works to date and what can be expected for the future of the CBA. “The new $84 million, 240,000-square-foot College of Business building is the largest academic building project in the recent history at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Located Kathy Farrell at 14th and Vine Streets, the new building is UNL the east bookend for Memorial Mall looking west toward Memorial Stadium. Architects for the project are Robert A.M. Stern Architects of New York and Alley Poyner Macchietto Architecture of Omaha. The new building will serve as a central gathering place for the CBA community and will be a welcoming place for the university and larger business community. It offers endless possibilities for the Big Ten College of Business, including interactive learning in state-of-the-art classrooms, one-stop student support services, cutting-edge technology, and space to host many events in the future.

Duly notable, the Clifton Strengths Institute was established by Gallup and the Clifton (Foundation) Family $30 million donation made in 2015 and is the only strengths research lab hosted at a college or university currently. The institute’s programming is designed to identify and maximize the talent of college students, faculty and staff to guide their personal, professional and leadership development through the use and application of strengths-based sciences. Every business student identifies their strengths through the Clifton StrengthsFinder assessment and receives one-on-one strengths coaching through an eight-week course their freshman year. Currently, CBA is the only institution to offer all students the one-on-one coaching. Throughout their time at CBA, students also revisit their strengths in the Professional Enhancement Program (PrEP) annually. The institute also positions students to develop entrepreneurial talent and leadership skills to build businesses, teams, and communities through the Clifton Builders program. Students, groups, and organizations within the university can also receive strengths coaching and workshop training.

All student services, such as undergraduate advising to assist students with planning their courses and career services who help with resumes, mock interviews, and internships, will be located on the first floor of the new building along with a Trade Room and the Clifton Strengths Institute.

There will also be a student-operated store, now called the Husker Lab, that will serve as a hands-on learning environment. The sales data from the store will also be shared across the college to use in projects for all majors. There are so many new opportunities for students, faculty, and staff in the new building which opens this August 2017.”

She also details highlights from other areas that have been developed within the CBA in recent years. “The Center for Sales Excellence prepares students for careers in professional selling and helping to elevate the sales profession. A ‘Top University for Professional Sales Education’ by the Sales Education Foundation (SEF) in 2015 and 2016, the program teaches students how to sell themselves to employers, pitch their ideas and enhance their communication skills. Open to both business and non-business major students, students earn a certificate in professional selling after completing 13 credit hours of coursework. The first group of students enrolled in the sales program in spring of 2014.

CBA is one of 36 university partners with the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designated by the CFA Institute. The CFA Program Partners are high profile universities of global stature that embed a significant percentage of the CFA Program Candidate Body of Knowledge (CBOK) into their programs, including the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct. CBA first established its partnership with the CFA Institute in 2008.

The actuarial science program is one of 16 Centers of Actuarial Excellence in the nation as designated by the Society of Actuaries.

Programs designated as a CAE must meet eight specific requirements related to degree, curriculum, graduate count, faculty composition, graduate quality, appropriate integration, connection to industry and research/scholarship. The UNL actuarial science first received this designation in 2009.

CBA created the Department of Supply Chain Management and Analytics in 2016 to meet the educational demands students face in both supply chain management and business analytics. In addition to offering the supply chain management major, the department also offers a business analytics minor, and graduate certificates in both supply chain management and business analytics. Dr. Jennifer Ryan, Ron and Carol Cope Professor of Supply Chain Management and Analytics, received the distinction of being the first department chair.

The CBA School of Accountancy ranked third in archival tax research and seventh in archival audit research in the latest Brigham Young University Accounting Research Rankings. The rankings indicate the quality of research and also expectations of publishing in top rated journals.

The rankings also model a standard of excellence for those considering entering the Ph.D. program in accounting. In the spring of 2016, the School of Accountancy also began offering a new internship program which split the spring semester between an eight-week tax or 10-week audit internship partnered with six-week classes. This allows students to determine whether public or private accounting works best for them without delaying graduation. Prior to this new option, students often had to delay graduation to take a semester off to complete an internship.

We’ve also seen an increase of online MBA students for the fall. Our online MBA ranked number 12 in the world by Financial Times and 21st in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. ” Concordia University, Nebraska is another great option to consider. It was recently ranked in the top 150 by U.S. News & World Report for the 2017 “Best Online Education Program.” Concordia launched the online M.Ed. in 2011 and has seen steady growth in both students and MARCH 2017 Strictly Business

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number of programs.

“Our Master of Education programs in Education Administration, Literacy, Special Education, Curriculum & Instruction, Early Childhood, and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) have been designed by seasoned administrators and classroom teachers to provide our students with a dynamic experience in gaining the knowledge that will not only help them become better educators, but also leaders in their schools and districts,” said Jonathon D. Jonathon Moberly Concordia University, NE Moberly, Dean of the College of Graduate Studies and Adult Education at Concordia University, Nebraska. “These programs have held accreditation through the National Council for Accreditation for Teacher Education (NCATE) since their inception and are now accredited by the Council for Accreditation for Educator Preparation (CAEP). We are honored that our Master of Education programs have been recognized in this way which is a strong testament to the work of our Master of Education Program Directors.”

Concordia University, Nebraska, founded in 1894, is a fully accredited university. With its main campus in Seward along with a location in the Fallbrook area of NW Lincoln, Concordia currently serves more than 2,600 students. Concordia offers more than 100 undergraduate, graduate and professional programs in an excellent academic and Christ-centered community that equips men and women for lives of learning, service, and leadership in the church and world.

Also among the highlights of Concordia’s degree programs is an MBA program, which was restructured a few years ago to a cohort model.

Designed with both traditional and non-traditional students in mind, it boasts a well-networked program to balance work and studying that provides students with hands-on experience. Dean Moberly adds, “The Concordia University Nebraska MBA Organization Development Clinic that began in May of 2015 remains one-of-a-kind for MBA programs in the Lincoln area, providing students with hands-on experiences working with real organizations that need help while receiving course credit.

The Organization Development Clinic strives to assist entrepreneurs, non-profit organizations, and existing small businesses whose values and missions align with Concordia University Nebraska. Concordia University Nebraska MBA students and faculty collaborate with these clients to assure a high-quality service is provided through a dynamic learning environment that promotes academic excellence and the integration of faith. Businesses and organizations who are interested in this opportunity are welcome to contact Dr. Shannon Leinen, MBA Program Director, at (402) 643-7376 or via email at shannon.leinen@cune.edu.”

There is also plenty of diversity to be found in our K-12 schools.

Throughout the grade levels, school is challenging at times for all students, but can be tougher for some than others. We’re beginning to find more institutions here in the Omaha Metro area that are taking this into consideration and offering specialized programs and curriculum in order to positively influence and improve student outcomes. While there’s no one right path to success for all, important work is being done every day to ensure there is a right path out there for everybody. Heartland School is a great example, with the mission “to provide educational services to students (K-12) who are verified behaviorally disordered, in a therapeutic success-based program.”

“Heartland School team provides a physically and emotionally safe environment where students gain knowledge and skills which will make them successful and productive,” says Heartland School Principal Mary Quiroz.

“Our academic program is individualized and designed to minimize any interruption to the student’s educational achievement and goals. Heartland School is approved by the Nebraska Department of Education as a Level III Educational Service Unit. All staff Mary Quiroz and administration are trained to address the Heartland School 40 Strictly Business MARCH 2017

needs of the student in a supportive, safe, and enriching environment.

Heartland School students and staff work in conjunction to achieve the following goals: *Students will gain knowledge and skills through an individualized education program developed by the Heartland School team, the student, parents, and the school district. *Students will gain increased mental health through a success-based nurturing program in an environment with a low student to teacher ratio. *Students will develop a positive self-image, responsibility to self and others, and the community and the ability to function as a self-directed individual in mainstream and adult life. The path to new skill development and recovery is one that we will travel together.

Each year it seems the needs of our children rise. Violence in the community finds its way into the schools and is compounded by the unmet basic needs of many of today’s kids putting more and more pressure on schools, school staff, school budgets, etc. Schools are continually challenged to find new ways to gather parental support and help in the education of their children. For some, the stress on the family to meet a continual barrage of needs causes things to go by the wayside. Very often, the kids in an alternative education environment have or have had serious mental illness in the family, and many times themselves. One or both parents may or may not have been incarcerated at some point forcing kids into the foster care system or placement with relatives, adding more pressure. Also, unfortunately, most of the kids who are considered at risk have been victims of sexual, physical and/or emotional abuse, all of which challenges kids in the learning environment.

Since 2012, after an in-depth analysis of policies and procedures, the Heartland School has been revamped. The staff and administration have reworked the entire program’s policies and procedures, and constant ongoing analysis has shown that the school districts are placing more and more of their students at Heartland School.We have made a conscientious change in our structure and programming that presents a calm, highly structured academic day that includes time for student creativity and physical engagement in structured activities as well as allowing the students with special skills such as art and music a chance to access further individualized programming at little to no cost to the school districts. Heartland School also has a full-time mental health team that is available for kids to access as well as to assist those in crisis.

Heartland School has been most noted for its relationship building efforts with the students and families. We believe that through our relationships with our students we can help them achieve what they are most capable of achieving. Our relationships and time spent with school district representatives have also contributed to our effectiveness in providing the best academic experience for their students.

We are always working on adding additional support services for our students and families in the area of mental health. One plan that is currently scheduled to be rolled out in the new school year is a sensory room. The literature has shown that this can be a highly effective strategy for students. We are also exploring new food service options to provide a little more variation in food choices and selection as well as quality and serving portions. Access to quality nutrition lunches will have a huge impact on the lives of our students. There are times when school lunch is the only meal our students will get and therefore, this is a critical area in the care of kids. Until basic needs are met, kids will be challenged in the learning environment.”

This is just the tip of the iceberg on what these prominent schools have to offer, and as such, an encouraging glimpse into the diversity of options already accessible to students in the area. Additionally, there’s so much potential that’s still yet to be seen and explored, with many more new programs and innovative approaches to learning methods on the horizon a virtual certainty. It just goes to show that the future of education remains as bright as that of the students in our classrooms. As far as the whole of what’s currently available, as you can see there’s substantial opportunity out there for those who are interested in continuing their education and also for those who are looking for alternatives to the traditional classroom model.

Furthering one’s education at any age requires commitment and tenacity, yet has the potential to be rewarding beyond measure as long as you find the right fit. We encourage you to explore your options, because you may be surprised at what direction it takes you.

Make your world a better place.

Earn an online business graduate degree with value(s).

Now that you’ve found your calling, Concordia University can help you make a bigger impact - around your schedule and with the support of a like-minded community. Learn more about how you can change the world with our online Master of Business Administration program, today.

go.cune.edu/business

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Commercial construction is one of the key indicators of a thriving city and economy; it’s a sign that business is good, and the market supports such a major investment into growth. Omaha is a city that has enjoyed steady growth, along with the other cities in the Metro area, and this is projected to remain true again in 2017 as construction season is about to begin.

So without further ado, let’s get into all of the things that would likely be on the radar of those who are considering embarking on a commercial construction project. There are many different types of companies that might be involved at different points in the project timeline, all with professionals who bring something different to the table with unique skill sets, experience, and offerings.

Project Financing

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Before you get on the books with the professionals for the designbuild process, first you’ll be getting financing in place for the project with the help of a trusted financial professional.

“As a lender, it is our job to assist the borrower in determining the structure that works best for the type of property being built,” advises OJ Spooner of Centris Federal Credit Union. “In some cases, it is to position the borrower to take advantage of long-term financing programs once construction is complete and the property is occupied. Lenders add value by coordinating the appraisal, title insurance and survey process that is needed to determine the loan amount and OJ Spooner ensure that title is clear of all liens and Centris other encumbrances and all easements are identified prior to the commencement of construction. Once the loan is closed, the lender is responsible for administering the disbursement process, which means working with the borrower and title company to ensure funds are available and the project is free of any mechanics liens.

You’ll want to keep in mind that interest rate by historical comparisons remains low, however land prices more than offset gains achieved by the lower interest rates. Nonetheless, there is a very active commercial construction market here in the Omaha area.”

Spooner offers the following tips: • Ensure that you understand your lender’s process and procedures when seeking loan approval and for handling disbursements.

• Take time to determine the best type of long-term financing you want to obtain when construction is completed and position your project accordingly.

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• Be prepared to financially meet cash equity requirements.

• Establish interest reserves to allow time for construction, lease up so that there will be sufficient cash flow to service the debt.

• Ensure you have a contingency built into your budget. This will allow for those unforeseen circumstances that are bound to occur during the course of construction.

He concludes, “Speak to your lender early in the process and determine the lender capabilities and what you, as the borrower, will need to do to obtain approval and close on a commercial construction loan. Be prepared to provide tax returns and personal financial statements, plans and specs, construction budgets and projections and more. Borrowers will want to understand how much equity the lender is requiring and will want to identify what can be included as equity, such as land or other pre-paid soft costs.

Most of the time, the borrower will be required to inject equity before the lender will fund the loan.”

Architect & General Contractor This is the first of many things to come that will involve a major decision on the part of the business owner/investor. You’ll want to choose your architect and/or general contractor wisely, because their level of experience and the established network of subcontractors they’ve chosen to partner with for projects will make all the difference in the outcome of yours.

Your general contractor, in particular, is the professional that will be responsible for bringing the vision and dream to life for the owner of the new property, which isn’t something to be not something to be taken lightly. Most people will only be involved with one or two major construction projects in their life, so by working with someone who has many under their belt, you’ll benefit from experience that you’d never come remotely come close to yourself. The general contractor is tasked with project management—they are the ones at the center of everything who handle all aspects accordingly.

Prior to the general contractor’s role, it’s common to work with an architect to put together a design. You’ll want to interview several before committing to one. Pick someone that you can easily work with and who will allow you to be involved with the design process.

Be very detailed about the design, because changes that become necessary or are wanted later in the project cost much more than if they were incorporated into the initial design.

Next, it’s helpful to be aware that there are a few different contract methods when dealing with general contractors. These are generally design-bid-build, design-build, and construction management. Educate yourself on these different methods, and the one you are most comfortable with should be your choice moving forward.

WHATEVER YOUR PERFECT BUILDING IS,

WE WILL BUILD IT!

Get All The Advantages Of A Steel Building, Without The Look Of A Steel Building!

Metal Buildings You’ve seen them go up all around town; for commercial space, pre-engineered metal buildings have become very popular in recent years. It’s seen as an attractive option for industrial purposes or for someone who is on a shorter timeline, but does not exclude any type of business as these can be designed for just about any use one could envision. You’ll find that flexibility is important with any offering in the construction industry, with this being a key example.

Local companies with the erection of metal buildings as a part of their offerings generally are able to provide design-build services, followed by certified installation and project management throughout the entire process. Working with one company on a project is nice because you have one point of contact for anything within the scope of that entire project, and one party who is responsible for delivering the results as promised, on time and on budget.

Call today for more info! 402-937-5937 3800 North 27th St Lincoln, Nebraska 68521 www.TalonSteel.com | dk.talonsteel@gmail.com MARCH 2017 Strictly Business

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“As a general contractor specializing in all-steel pre-engineered buildings, we offer a wide array of quality features and optional accessories to improve functionality and enhance your building’s appearance,” says Darren Kinney of Talon Steel Buildings. “Talon Steel buildings come standard with heavy-duty 26-gauge roof and wall panels, available in a Bare, Siliconized Polyester (better), or Kynar (best) finish. Panels come in a variety of profiles, colors, and warranty options Darren Kinney that offer outstanding beauty and longTalon Steel Buildings term protection. We can add any kind of window you want, and do have an inexpensive starting point that doesn’t sacrifice quality. Finishing the inside of your building with steel liner panels adds style and energy efficiency. Then, whether you need just a simple access door or multiple loading/ equipment bays, Talon’s wide range of insulated and non-insulated door types and styles can be sized and configured to your exact specifications. If you would like a hydraulic lift overhead door, that’s a possibility too!

Finally, it’s advised to protect your foundation and property from erosion and water damage while beautifying your structure, and we have great options for overhangs, gutters, and downspouts.

Made from light gauge materials and available in many attractive trim colors, these systems are hemmed for a strong, smooth and corrosion-resistant edge for years of the functionality. We feel that it’s important for our clients to have options, so with every aspect of the building, you can pick exactly what fits your needs and budget.”

Parking Structures With new construction for commercial space often comes the

need for new construction to accommodate parking, whether it’s a garage or lot.

When it comes to any project where concrete and/or masonry are involved, it’s important to work with those who have plenty of experience with these specific materials. Here in Nebraska, the changes in weather can be quite drastic, and this is a frequent phenomenon that happens year-round. In just one week, we can go through all four seasons, from windy and cool to snow, shifting suddenly to a sunny and calm 60-plus degrees, then back to rain and freezing into ice. Considering that exact thing just happened, although maybe not in that specific order, let’s just say it’s not at all uncommon.

The problem with these types of unpredictable weather patterns is that it causes the continuous expansion and contraction of the primary materials commonly utilized in commercial construction, with freeze-thaw cycles causing degradation over time.

So, if your commercial construction plans include any type of masonry, or you’re constructing a parking structure connected or in proximity to your building, there are a couple things you can – and by all accounts, should - do early on to ensure the stability of the structure over time.

“Protection of critical areas of the structure that are exposed to the elements or responsible for its continued stability is key,” advises Dennis Rice of McGill Restoration. “You need to consult with the professionals on the construction of the building itself, that’s apparent, but don‘t overlook assessing the protection of that investment from ground zero. Concrete in particular is susceptible to deterioration and delamination over time, so you can and should expect that to happen, but slowing it down significantly is entirely possible with sealants and other protective coatings.

Dennis Rice McGill Restoration

Many people find it hard to invest money in the things that cannot be seen, and I’ll caution you that most of the things that are done to protect your building fall into that category. While it’s not as sexy as some of the other components of your new building and space to conduct business, it’s definitely not something you’ll regret putting more money towards up-front later on down the line, that’s for sure. With our weather in the Midwest, even a brand new building might experience things within the first year’s progression of seasons that could become problematic over time.

For commercial construction jobs, low bids can be attractive given the amount of money involved in this type of transaction, but might not include important items such as a urethane layer to protect the ceiling of a parking garage. Similarly, if costs need to be cut at some point before or during the project, protective elements shouldn’t be sacrificed if at all possible. You might think you’re saving money now, but you’ll subsequently be spending more down the line in repairs, and sooner than you might think. Not only is it likely to be costly, but also dangerous. Being a proactive building owner is advised across the board, and along the same lines of protecting your investment, it’s the best course of action to get a solid maintenance plan in place right away after construction is completed.”

Major Systems Your building will be composed of many key systems working together in unison to meet the needs of its inhabitants. Meeting basic requirements as far as shelter, electricity, water, connectivity, safety, and the like may not be as appealing as the overall design, the fun extras to add, or the exciting new capabilities you’ll have once your new building is complete. Although these are things from which enjoyment and satisfaction aren’t necessarily derived, they are responsible for all of the functions that will keep you up and

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running and able to conduct business without any interruptions or costly setbacks.

wiring the entire building in a way that allows for handling loads suitable for the building’s operational systems and technology use.

Roofing

Of all the important things that will be determined by the electrical grid and foundation of your building, lighting is at the top of the list. Exterior lighting will help to ensure the safety of your employees and customers, doubling as a theft deterrent by illuminating areas that are most susceptible to unauthorized entry, and can also be used to enhance the design features of the structure and potentially the landscaping too. Interior lighting is what will make the space a work environment that’s conducive to productivity, and will factor into its overall design and ambiance as far as aesthetics.

Since the roof is what protects everything of value inside your business, you’ll want to be sure you’re installing a system that performs up to the highest standards, with materials used that stand up to the test of time and the elements. With every major system, you’ll also find that there are options for efficiency and energy savings, and capitalizing on those whenever and wherever you can is advised. This is definitely as true for roofing as it is for all of the others we’ll subsequently cover.

“A t T h e S e c u r e Ro o f S o l u t i o n , we specialize in educating building owners and commercial roofing contractors on the energy saving roofing systems available today that offer extended life and significant energy savings,” says Dennis Nun of Heartland International, a n i n d e p e n d e n t m a n u f a c t u r e r ’s representative for Conklin Company, Inc. “They are now widely available, and the advantages are numerous. Energy efficient roofing systems can​actually pay Dennis Nun for themselves in energy savings and Heartland International significant reductions in roof expenses in the future.

The advice I’d offer to someone who is planning to build is to take the time to research the advances in roofing, and to then select the systems and contractors you work with carefully. An energy saving roof that offers a long-term solution to your new building’s needs is a great investment, but selecting the wrong system or the wrong contractor can create a nightmare for the building owner. After 40 years in the commercial roofing industry, I think I’ve seen it all. Yet I still meet building owners who didn’t do their due diligence in advance of spending hundreds of thousands of dollars or hiring a contractor that’s inexperienced or unreliable.”

Water You’ve probably made note of the fact that energy efficiency and environmentally-friendly practices are recurring themes within the topic of commercial construction. Moving on through to another critical utility, water usage is also something to consider when you’re installing new systems and features of the building itself, and across the entire property as a whole.

This will entail the plumbing and main equipment installed on the inside as well as the irrigation system on the outside.

Curb appeal is a big deal as far as a business’s reputation and ability to attract customers just based on first impressions alone. As such, after the building is constructed, and areas from parking to entry are complete, landscaping is generally next on the to-do list.

Hand-in-hand with establishing said landscape is the installation of an irrigation system to keep it alive and thriving, protecting what’s likely to be a significant investment in the property and part of its continued maintenance.

In short, the irrigation systems of today are not remotely akin to the irrigation systems our parents had installed at their homes and

Entrances In the view of the general public, a door can simply be a passage into a building, and yet to professionals, there are many more variables that are needed to develop the full capabilities of any entrance. For commercial businesses, the ideal doors may be a single swing or double swing doors while for others, you may be looking for an automatic sliding door, automatic swing door, or revolving doors all while maintaining compliance with the American Disabilities Act. In any case, a team that specializes in commercial doors will be needed to assist you with your decision as it is often times not as transparent as it may seem. These entrances have many elements to them and all components affect your decision-making process when it comes to installing an automatic door. These factors include the entrance way being responsible for safety, security, and energy efficiency of the building among many other aspects. All of these options and more are available through the professionals at A United Automatic Doors & Glass and its newly formed security division, Secure Card Readers and More (S.C.R.A.M.). It is important to work with experts on the integration of all critical components, to illustrate an entryway designed specifically for you and your building.

Lighting & Power Of the many subcontractors that will play a crucial role in a commercial construction project, an electrician is one that you can expect be heavily involved throughout, from design to installation.

This is a professional who will be instrumental in establishing an infrastructure that supports the core functions of a business, from the interior and exterior lighting to outlet placement to safely MARCH 2017 Strictly Business

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businesses. Commercial outdoor water use in the United States accounts for more than 9 billion gallons of water each day, used mainly for lawn and landscape irrigation. Experts estimate that as much as 50 percent of this water is wasted due to overwatering caused by inefficiencies in irrigation methods and systems, and at a major cost to property owners as well as the environment. Irrigation control technologies can significantly reduce overwatering by applying water when and where the turf and plants require it.

Advancements in irrigation range from web-based interactive controllers to pressure regulated sprinkler heads and sub-surface irrigation that offers direct delivery of water to the turf’s roots with no working parts to ever fail.

Technology There are a whole slew of impressive options for cutting-edge technology that can be integrated into a commercial building during the initial construction phase. Control of a building’s systems, in particular, is an area where offerings, and the potential they have to positively impact a commercial building and the business inside, have been steadily developing to address the needs of building owners.

Pat Killeen Engineered Controls

“There is now a great demand for energy efficient buildings, high-tec h devices and enhanced security systems that are now central components of building management systems (BMS),” advises Pat Killeen of Engineered Controls.

“BMS provide efficient control of internal comfort conditions, effective use of energy, and quick and effective responses to HVAC and security problems that save both time and money. These systems also provide information on problems in the building, allow for computerized maintenance

Honeywell E-mon Energy Submeters Submetering products and systems give users visibility into where and when energy is consumed in their buildings.

For building owners submeters deliver the information they need to implement energy management programs including:

• Integration With Building Automation Systems • Energy Conservations & Green Building Initiatives • Energy Analysis • Cost Allocation

scheduling, are easy and effective for employees to use, and easily detect problems.

By integrating HVAC, lighting and security functions all within one common BMS platform, a building’s power systems; lighting and illumination; electric power and control; security, video surveillance and magnetic card access; heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems will all be monitored and controlled from one central location. Studies show that by 2018, it will be the integrated control systems that will show the greatest growth in future years.

Although hardwired building management systems have been around since the late seventies, it will be the wireless technology will continue to revolutionize building automation system market forward in 2017 and beyond.”

He also offers the following advice: “First, I would tell clients interested in adding building control technology to do their research. There is plenty of information on the internet today that will make the average building owner much more knowledgeable about what is available in the commercial construction market than anyone realizes.

Next, I would suggest that building owners need to get to know the consulting engineers that are designing their buildings. It is crucial for building owners to participate in the design process and to be smart buyers. Since the new construction industry consists of architects, consulting engineers, general contractors, mechanical contractors, and so on, many of the basic decisions that are being made regarding system type, configuration, manufacturer, functionality, etc. are all being made by everyone EXCEPT the customer.

Far too often we see building owners moving into a new building only to find out that they did not get that they wanted. Or occasionally the BMS system is too complicated for them to operate. So the moral of the story is to get involved, ask questions, know what you want, and know what you are getting BEFORE the decisions are made by everyone but you, the customer.”

Safety You’ll need to ensure that your new building is designed to be up to current code and compliant with all OSHA regulations and laws in place. Putting the right safety systems in place is a big part of that for any business; whether a restaurant, warehouse, or office building, there will be different things you’ll need to take into consideration, although quality and function will remain constants for all. You are not only protecting your investment in the property, you are protecting the lives of your employees and clients.

“FireGuard eliminates the need to contact multiple companies by offering complete life safety solutions,” advises Bob Sorensen of FireGuard. “We design, sell, install, inspect, and service all types of fire protection and life safety equipment.

All new construction commercial-use buildings will have a need for these types of systems, so my advice is to involve the professional that will be tasked with the installation of the system(s) you require as early on in the design-build process Bob Sorensen as possible. By having this incorporated FireGuard into the plans early on, you’ll ensure that everything goes smoothly down the line during construction and that you have exactly what you need in place to get up and running on schedule.”

Finishing Touches

www.controldepotinc.com (402) 934-0078 • 9304 G Court • Omaha, NE 68127 46

Strictly Business MARCH 2017

Once the building itself is complete, it then will undergo a transformation on the inside to become your office, shop, boutique, salon, restaurant, showroom, etc. From the flooring and paint to cabinets and finishes to furniture and décor, the potential here is

limitless. Working with a professional interior designer is advised, as well as the design team at any of the vendors you’ll use for the different features. The quality of materials is imperative because durability and longevity are they key to getting the most out of your investment. Using tile as an example, larger tiles in a quality porcelain material have gained popularity because of their attractiveness and durability, and larger floor mat tiles, plank tiling, faux wood, and other scratch-resistant finishes remain on trend for the same reasons. It’s worth paying an extra dollar or two per square foot for a finished product that will look much better as well as having a longer life before replacement is needed. A professional will be able to guide you as to the pros and cons of the various materials you’re thinking about incorporating to ensure you’re making an educated decision. For tile, check out Ceramic Tileworks Center for materials and Modern Concepts Tile for installation, you’ll be in great hands. Again, you get what you pay for, and the appearance of your place of business, inside and out, and the environment you’re able to create is part of your brand signature and an extension of your reputation. The impression it makes on your customers and those who are considering doing business with you in the future, and the effect it has on your employees, are not to be underestimated.

Tools of the Trade While our focus thus far has been on the consumer who is building, within the trades there’s always something new to learn or new tools to implement for the benefit of all. As is the case equipment that takes into account safety, a major concern for construction workers.

“Midwest Woodworkers isn’t well known for offering construction tools, but we have one product that every construction company should know about,” advises Gerry Phelan with Midwest Woodworkers.

“The SawStop jobsite table saw is the first portable saw that truly takes table saw safety to the next level. It won’t cut fingers.

The patented SawStop system stops and retracts the blade at the first contact with skin, faster than an airbag.

Gerry Phelan Midwest Woodworkers

Here’s how it works: The blade carries a small electrical signal. When skin contacts the blade, the signal changes because the human body is conductive. The change to the signal activates the safety system and an aluminum brake springs into the spinning blade, stopping it. The blade’s angular momentum drives it beneath the table, removing the risk of subsequent contact. All that happens in less than 5 milliseconds! The result is a minor nick rather than a severe injury or amputation. If the brake system is triggered there is no damage to the saw. You replace the blade and the brake cartridge and in as little as 5 minutes you can be back in operation.

There is a table saw accident in the United States every 9 minutes on average. There are 10 amputations every day. The societal cost of these injuries is in the billions of dollars, and the impact on victims cannot be counted. The initial investment for a SawStop Jobsite saw is $1299.00. If you think that sounds expensive, compare that investment in safety to the cost of an emergency room visit, or worse, an amputation. It’s a bargain. And the best part is that there is no need to compromise on performance. This saw matches the power of similar 1.5HP jobsite saws and it has features not found on other saws in its class. It’s an awesome tool AND it keeps employees safe.

We hate to see companies come to us for a SawStop after they’ve had an incident. That usually means someone was hurt. We’d rather be proactive and keep those accidents from happening. If SawStop’s capabilities seem hard to believe, Midwest Woodworkers can bring a saw out and provide a demonstration.”

He adds, “Because of our focus on table saw safety, we’ve also developed a series of safety briefings on woodworking tools.

It’s difficult for organizations to find new ways to make safety

meaningful and relevant to their employees in safety meetings.

We can provide solid, focused table saw safety content that makes safety real and memorable. And we can even bring a SawStop Jobsite Saw along and do the famous ‘hot dog’ demo. With everything I’ve detailed, we hope to have a huge impact on safety in commercial construction worksites.”

Companies may also need to rent various pieces of equipment to perform certain jobs. No matter the task, Honeyman Rent-All can provide any equipment that you might need for your commercial construction project. Troy Honeyman of Honeyman Rent-All, says, “Many times on the job, you might need something that you don’t own or have on-hand. That is where we can be of assistance, as we have a wealth of equipment and tools that are available for rental and our staff is on-hand six days a week to help you find exactly what you need to complete the job successfully. We also make sure that you fully understand how to operate each piece of equipment that you rent and we provide hands-on service. At Honeyman Rent-All we take pride in our extensive rental inventory which includes a wide variety of equipment for specialized projects such as demolition, concrete, drills and attachments, drywall and wallpaper, electric hand tools, floor and carpet, landscaping, generators and welders, hoists, jacks, ladders, lifts, lighting and electrical, measuring and locating, painting, plumbing, pumps and hoses, saws, tractors and trailers, trenchers and skid steers, climate control, cutters, and air equipment. We look forward to working with you to ensure that you have the right equipment and tools for the job so that you can bring your project to life!”

There you have it, all that you ever wanted to know about taking on your own commercial construction project here in Omaha…and probably more! It’s a booming industry, and we’ve got great companies doing great things here to build our great city. Should you be part of the excitement in the future, make sure to utilize the expertise of the professionals to get it done to the highest standard of quality and performance.

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J J J

OINING ORGANIZATIONS

As business professionals, we are on a constant quest to improve ourselves in order to be successful at what we do – to meet our goals, to grow our personal spheres of influence, to sharpen our skills, to develop our talents, to expand upon our expertise, to build a strong network within the business community, to contribute to our chosen career field, and to play a part in making our businesses more successful as a result of those efforts.

If you think that there’s no single way to accomplish all of those goals, the good news is you’re mistaken (not usually two things that go together, that’s for sure). By simply joining a professional organization, you now have the support of an industry-focused ally, which in turn, affords you access to specialized training, targeted networking opportunities and the chance to make valuable connections within your industry locally and nationwide, relevant continuing education events, and so much more.

Essentially you’ll be at the pulse of what’s going on in your industry.

Many of these organizations are also very involved in the communities in which they have an established presence, so you’ll also be contributing to the greater good of the place you live and work. You may then opt to dedicate as much time as you have available to take advantage of opportunities when they present themselves, that’s all there is to it.

Above all, what you can expect from any organization is a relationship that’s symbiotic in nature. Even for those who don’t have free time to devote to participation in an organization’s offerings, many welcome members who are only interested in contributing monetarily as a gesture of their ongoing support. Altogether it’s a way we can actively back organizations that align with our values or that are critical to the advancement of our respective industries, in order to ensure they are able to exist and carry on with the enrichment of our community.

It’s also well worth mentioning that besides the support, camaraderie, and visibility, belonging to business organizations can increase your business’s credibility in your respective marketplace. Many potential clients or customers view membership in relevant business groups as a sign that you’re representing an established business that’s accepted by your industry peers and places importance on continuous learning and community involvement.

Now that we’ve convinced you that joining organizations is a great way to grow both professionally and personally, while also making you more of an asset to your employer and an ally who is interested in the success of the business you represent, the next step is to find those that would be a good fit. The Strictly Business team has compiled a list of suggestions that while not exhaustive, are widely considered to be the very best in the area. We encourage you to take a look through these wonderful local organizations that would love to have you as a member!

“We build leadership, strengthen organizations, and elevate Greater Omaha through positive, practical, business ethics.” Along with our mission, the Business Ethics Alliance is committed to illuminating Greater Omaha as a beacon for business ethics by furthering the level of ethics dialogue, education, and research within our community. As a non-membership, nonprofit organization, we invite individuals of all ranks from small to large employers and associations to align with us. Attend our signature events, hire us to enhance your business, become involved in our ethics research– no matter what industry. Learn more at www.businessethicsalliance.org.

48 Strictly Business MARCH 2017

The Metro Omaha Builders Association (MOBA) was chartered in 1946 and is a not-for-profit organization that was established to promote and protect various aspects of the home building industry.

MOBA is an organization of individuals and firms involved in residential and light commercial building and development and related industries. The organization is also known for the Omaha Home Show, Remodel Omaha Tour and Street of Dreams. Experience the benefits of MOBA, join now!

For more information, visit www.moba.com.

The Nebraska Restaurant Association acts as the principal advocate for Nebraska’s hospitality industry and promotes the qualities of strength, unity, and excellence in and of its membership. The association is dedicated to serving Nebraska’s restaurant and retail beverage industries by providing comprehensive industry education, proactive representation, aggressive industry promotion and the highest quality member benefits.

Membership is a small investment with big rewards in the health of your business and the entire food service industry. It’s a big world out there and we will do all we can to make it a bit smaller! For membership information and the Nebraska Restaurant Association contact Brandy Nielson at bnielson@nebraska-dining.org or (402) 488-3999.

Nebraska Restaurant Association is on the web at www.nebraska-dining. org or facebook.com/NebraskaRestaurantAssociation.

The Omaha Jaycees, as the oldest young professional organization in Omaha, has been building leaders since 1921. This is accomplished through individual development, community involvement, management opportunities, and networking events.

Through training and volunteering, the Jaycees can help you grow both personally and professionally. Members can learn management skills by running projects both large and small. Personal and professional growth is achieved by networking with professionals from around the world in a variety of fields including: banking, law, military, psychology, education, and many more.

What separates the Jaycees from other groups is our commitment to the community. Plus, as an Omaha Jaycee you are part of the national and international Jaycees. Join the Omaha Jaycees and learn how you can make a difference at www.omahajaycees.org!

The Apartment Association of Nebraska is the local affiliate of the National Apartment Association (NAA). The NAA currently has over 170 affiliate, and boasts over 8.7 million apartment homes globally.

Founded in 2002, Apartment Association of Nebraska (AAN) was created by a group of property manager and owners with a vision to help create and maintain a high level of professionalism in the multi-family rental housing industry in the greater Nebraska area. On October 5, 2002 the AAGOL received it’s charter from the National Apartment Association (NAA). In 2014, the name was changed to the Apartment Association of Nebraska to better represent our membership.

Our members include multi-family owners and management companies, apartment communities, and the supplier members who service this industry.

The mission of the Apartment Association of Nebraska is to support, inform, and connect the multi-family community through education, legislation, and professional networking.

For more information about​the Apartment Association of Nebraska and our upcoming events, be sure to visit www.aaneb.org.

The Cornhusker Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors continually strives to be the leading voice promoting free enterprise within the construction industry in Nebraska. The organization’s main goal is to provide member companies and their employees with an opportunity to succeed winning work and delivering that work safely, ethically and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which they work.

Whether a large or small company, joining ABC provides value. ABC offers training, continuing education courses and opportunities for networking and showcasing project successes. Our mission affords us the opportunity to share the industry through student event to help build workforce for Nebraska.

For more information or to discuss joining ABC Cornhusker Chapter, contact Anne Klute at (402) 477-4451 or annek@abcnebraska.org.

You can also visit www.abcnebraska.org to find out more.

Business4Business Professional Society is an engaged and effective community of leaders and professionals who are committed to empower, serve, and develop one another.

B4B focuses on bringing motivated people together at dozens of events throughout the year and providing resources that create lasting relationships, insights, and experiences. At our events, we aim to offer ideas, facilitate connections, and inspire our attendees to strive for greater and more meaningful accomplishments. We tap into the potential of our community and its people, creating experiences throughout the year that are unique, impactful, empowering, and exciting.

The various events we host include keynote speakers, non-profit tours, happy hours, coffee and connections, as well as large quarterly networking events at unique venues throughout the Greater Omaha area.

Our events are always open to the public, and we also offer an All Access Pass for members who would like to attend multiple events throughout the year. For more information, please visit www.b4bsociety.com.

Passionate about where we are from - and where we are going.

We do more than live in this community, we imagine what it could be a push it to greater harnessing vision, expertise and the power of ‘we’ to raise our quality of life.

We know community and business needs are ever-changing. Nothing is permanent. Nothing is guaranteed. Except for this - we’ll be here to connect and catalyze, advocate and lead, creating new opportunities, shouting up our region, strengthening it by helping others succeed.

We won’t let up - and we won’t let down - because our work is too important, our pride is too deep and our community is counting on us.

We are the Greater Omaha Chamber. Be part of it. OmahaChamber. org/Belong | membership@OmahaChamber.org | (402) 346-5000

Sarpy County is the fastest growing county in Nebraska and The Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce wants your business to grow with this unique and prosperous business community.

Joining the Sarpy Chamber opens doors to a wide range of networking events, fundraisers, workshops, and other activities, all with the aim of connecting business owners, professionals and entrepreneurs in creating an environment of success for businesses of all size and industry.

Our mission is to partner with businesses and organizations to educate, advocate, and lead in fostering business and economic prosperity in Sarpy County. Become our latest partner and we’ll work together to make your business a part of what makes this community so strong.

Contact us at grow@sarpychamber.org or call (402) 339-3050 to learn more about becoming a member and find out what networking opportunities are available to you right now!

The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) is an organization of women that are employed in the construction industry.

Our core purpose is to enhance the success of women in the construction industry. Our goal is to be the association that empowers women to influence the direction of the construction industry.

We provide educational opportunities at the local, regional, and national levels. We have multiple leadership opportunities and work within the community to promote the construction trades. We offer many personal and professional networking opportunities. We have been chosen to work with the City Planning Department to assist in the rollout of a new inspection system.

The Greater Omaha Chapter meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month at varied locations in the Omaha, Nebraska area. We welcome visitors to join us. Find current information about our upcoming meeting locations, topics, and times on our website at www.nawicomaha.com.

MARCH 2017 Strictly Business 49

The Midwest International Trade Association (MITA) is an organization that was established to encourage the expansion of trade between the Midwest and foreign markets by sponsoring: meetings and networking events, international trade conferences, and educational seminars. These events are designed to offer ideas and present current information to help businesses succeed in importing and exporting.

Both newcomers as well as seasoned veterans of international trade benefit from the diverse membership and combined experience of MITA members that helps you address your international trade concerns and create new ideas for business development.

MITA also hosts the annual World Trade Conference scheduled for Wednesday, May 17, 2017 in Omaha. The 2017 Monthly Calendar of Events can be found on MITA’s website. Information on these events, as well as membership information or how to become a sponsor of the World Trade Conference, can be found at www.mitaonline.org or by contacting MITA at (402) 596-1210 or mita@mitaonline.org.

BNI Heartland (Nebraska, Wyoming, South Dakota, and Western Iowa) offers members the opportunity to build a firm networking foundation, to nurture referral partner(s). Last year alone BNI, with over 211,000 members, in more than 7,500 chapters throughout every populated continent of the world – 73 countries, generated more than 8.8 million referrals which resulted in over $11.17 billion dollars of tracked business for our members. Cumulatively, since 1985, BNI has generated over $70 Billion dollars in tracked business for our membership!

Belonging to BNI is like having dozens of salespeople working for you who carry your information with them, and when they meet someone who could use your products or services, they recommend you.

BNI provides a structured, supportive system of giving and receiving business. It does so by providing an environment during breakfast, lunch, and happy hour meetings in which you develop personal relationships with other qualified business professionals. By establishing this “formal” relationship with other people, you will have the opportunity to substantially increase your business.

For more information about BNI Heartland please contact our regional office at (402) 880-6311, email info@bniheartland.com, or visit our website, www.bniheartland.com.

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At the Greater Bellevue Area Chamber of Commerce, our goal is to make doing business in Bellevue, Nebraska the very best it can be. We provide advocacy for your business and opportunities to help you grow.

It’s important that we ensure every member business thrives. Our members are the best and brightest companies in the region who are investing in Bellevue’s future. We can accomplish so much more together.

For more information on how to get your business engaged call Faith Morrison, VP of Membership at (402) 506-6610 or e-mail at membership@bellevuenebraska.com For more information please visit the Greater Bellevue Area Chamber of Commerce website at www. bellevuenebraska.com.

Today, the Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce celebrates 101 years of providing services to our members and working with our community partners to develop Council Bluffs into the thriving community we live in today. Over the past 101 years, this Chamber has always been focused on you –the Council Bluffs/Omaha Metro community.

Over the past 101 years, the Chamber has continued to implement strategies that better our community in terms of economic development, workforce, small business, public policy, leadership, membership services, and the promotion of our area.

Exciting developments on the Riverfront, West Broadway, Metro Crossing, the 100 Block of Broadway, and the Mid-America Center area promise an energetic future for Council Bluffs, a place unlike anywhere else. On purpose.

“We invite you to dream with us,” Mundt said. “We never coast, and we accomplish a lot more when we work together.”

For more information, please visit www.councilbluffsiowa.com.

The Rotary Club of Omaha (Downtown Rotary) is a place where new and emerging leaders meet and interact one-on-one with established leaders in our community. Our mission has always been the same: Leaders in our community working together to put service above self and the eradication of Polio. We do this by: • Weekly Speakers - dynamic, relevant and informative • Operation Hippocrates - we arrange for Omaha cardiac surgeons and hospitals to provide heart surgery and follow-up medical care for children in Belize • Eradication of Polio - in 1985, Rotary boldly launched the first global campaign to immunize the world’s children against polio.

• Outland Trophy - we co-sponsor the annual Outland Trophy award dinner for college football’s outstanding lineman • Community Service - we offer numerous opportunities for community service • People with Disabilities - we support projects for the disabled and we sponsor J.P. Lord School in the “Adopt a School Program” For more information about Downtown Rotary visit our website, www. omaharotary.org, email info@omaharotary.org or call (402) 342-0281.

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