Midlands Business Journal November 21, 2025

“Something as simple as paying a bill, writing a check, we can do that smarter and safer.”

Established in 1975

Publisher / CEO

Andrea “Andee” Hoig

Executive Editor

Daisy Hutzell-Rodman

Managing Editor

Dwain Hebda

Editorial Coordinator

Darlene Hebda

Sales and Business Development

Jane Shinn

Advertising Assistant

Julie Whitehead

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CONTRIBUTORS

CREATIVE:

Jalapeño Designs • Mike Cottrell

Waking Words, LLC. • Rob Killmer

PHOTOGRAPHY:

Debra Kaplan

Kayleigh Anne Photography

Roger Humphries Photography

WRITERS:

Dwain Hebda

Wendy Miller Jordan

Michelle Leach

Jen Litton

Kara Schweiss

Brooke Strickland

Todd Traub

Tim Trudell

PRINTER:

White Wolf Web

Robert G. “Bob” Hoig (1932-2019) Founder

Zane D. Randall (1925-2006) Co-founder

LeAnne M. Iwan (1932-1986) First News Editor

The Midlands Business Journal (ISSN 0194-4525) is published weekly by MBJ Inc. and is available for $2.00 per individual copy, $84 per year (print subscription) or $60 (digital only). Editorial offices are 1308 S. 119th St., Omaha, NE 68144. Periodical postage paid at Omaha NE POSTMASTER; Send address changes to Midlands Business Journal, 1308 S. 119th St., Omaha, NE 68144. All submissions to the Midlands Business Journal become the property of the Midlands Business Journal and will not be returned. EDITORIAL ADVERTISING (402) 330-1760

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-The Publisher Dedicated to

HIGHLIGHT of the week Tree of Lights begins

SALVATION ARMY LAUNCHES $3.3M FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN

TEXT CONTRIBUTED |

PHOTOS BY DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN

The Salvation Army of Omaha’s largest annual fundraiser officially launched with officials illuminating the 75-foot LED Christmas tree at American National Bank’s headquarters at 90th Street and West Dodge Road.

The 2025 Tree of Lights Campaign carries a $3.3 million goal under the leadership of campaign chair Travis Freeman, owner and president of Brite Ideas Decorating.

The Nov. 13 tree-lighting ceremony also marked the deployment of The Salvation Army’s iconic red kettles. More than 100 kettles are now stationed around the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro through Dec. 24. Each kettle accepts traditional coin and paper currency donations while also featuring QR codes that allow smartphone users to contribute online. Metro-area kettle donations represent a substantial portion of the overall campaign total.

Donors can also visit omaharedkettle.org to make secure online contributions. All Tree of Lights Campaign donations remain local, supporting metro residents in need.

Freeman has pledged additional support by donating a portion of proceeds from ChristmasLand, Freeman’s new holiday lights drive-through near Valley, to the campaign.

The Salvation Army seeks bell-ringing volunteers for local kettles. Interested individuals can register at registertoring.com to select convenient locations and time slots.

This year’s campaign theme is “Give with Joy.” The Salvation Army of Omaha thanked the community for its continued support as the campaign began.

MBJ BUSINESS insider

TOP THINGS TO KNOW

Omaha Fashion Week suspends February runway show

Omaha Fashion Week has announced that the organization will be taking a season off in February and not presenting its usual spring show. The fall show is expected to return as usual in August 2026, organizers said in an announcement. Omaha Fashion Week, which started in 2008, has grown to become the fourth-largest organized fashion week event in the U.S. and was the first fashion week event to offer free participation for designers. Combined attendance for its runway shows is usually more than 10,000 people annually.

Omaha Fashion Week operates Omaha Fashion Camp and serves as a talent incubator and platform for a diverse community of designers, models, stylists, photographers and artists. The organization is also associated with Omaha Event Group and Omaha Design Center, which serves as home to Fashion Week as well as other events year-round.

Midlands African Chamber announces trade mission

The Midlands African Chamber Inc. is seeking participants for its upcoming U.S.-West Africa Trade Mission Feb. 21-March 1, 2026. This mission is expected to offer one-of-akind networking, direct access to African markets, and strategic site visits in the countries of Ghana and Togo. Participants will explore sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, fintech and real estate vital to the continent’s emerging $2 billion-plus market.

Derek Vaughn appointed

to Nebraska Supreme Court

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen has appointed Derek Ray Vaughn of Omaha to the Nebraska Supreme Court, representing the Second Judicial District. His appointment fills the vacancy left by Justice Miller-Lerman who stepped down Oct. 31. Vaughn had been a district court judge in Douglas County since August 2023 and a Douglas County court judge for 10 years before that. Vaughn has also been an adjunct instructor at regional colleges and universities including the University of Nebraska Omaha, Midland University and Dana College. He has served on a number of boards including the City of Omaha Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, the Urban League of Nebraska Board of Directors, the Nebraska Coalition for Juvenile Justice and the Office of Violence Prevention Advisory Board. Vaughn is part of the Nebraska Bench Media Committee, which works to foster positive and professional relationships between attorneys, courts and the media.

Partnership facilitates graduate degrees

College of Saint Mary and Clarkson College recently signed an agreement to offer undergraduate students graduate degree pathway options, addressing a need for health care professionals locally and statewide. Clarkson College undergraduates have pathway options to the Master of Science in kinesiology and exercise science, Master of Science in physician assistant studies, Doctor of Physical Therapy and Doctor of Occupational Therapy programs at CSM. CSM undergraduates have pathway options to the Master of Healthcare Administration, Master of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Doctor of Nursing Practice programs at Clarkson College. Certificate programs offered by Clarkson College are also available to CSM students.

The pathways are open to undergraduate students at Clarkson College and CSM in eligible majors. Students have a simplified application process, guaranteed prerequisite alignment, priority review, dual advising and dedicated admission counseling. Students must complete program prerequisites, maintain the required GPA and meet any testing or interview requirements. Students are advised to begin the process as early as their sophomore year to ensure they meet all the prerequisites before applying.

UNL agribusiness entrepreneurs launch catalog

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program has launched its 2025 Engler Christmas Catalog, a curated shopping guide featuring more than 50 businesses built by Engler students, alumni and founders. The catalog, available as a digital flipbook or hard copy, includes a diverse range of products and services, and was created to create an accessible means for Nebraskans to support Engler entrepreneurs.

A weekly recap of current, relevant and breaking business news in the greater Omaha area

CIRA named NAM Catalyst winner

The Center for Immigrant and Refugee Advancement was announced as the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands’ 2025 NAM Catalyst winner at the Nonprofit Summit of the Midlands on Nov. 6. CIRA was formed in 2022 by a merger of the Immigrant Legal Center and the Refugee Empowerment Center. Its mission is to empower immigrants and refugees to live confidently through high-quality legal representation, resettlement and social work and to create welcoming communities through education and advocacy.

Werner Enterprises recognized as Military Friendly employer

Omaha-based Werner Enterprises Inc., a transportation and logistics provider, has received special recognition by VIQTORY, a military-focused marketing and recruitment company that connects the military community with civilian opportunities. Marking the company’s fourth consecutive year in the Top 10 in two categories for companies with $1 billion to $5 billion in annual revenue, Werner was ranked No. 3 on the Top 10 Military Friendly Employer list and No. 2 on the Top 10 Military Friendly Spouse Employer list. Werner’s awards will be included in the winter issue of G.I. Jobs magazine and on militaryfriendly.com.

Approximately 20% of Werner’s workforce is comprised of veterans, according to a company announcement. Its specialized programs and benefits tailored to the military community include its Military Skills Test Waiver Program and the SkillBridge/Career Skills Program, VA Educational Benefits and deployment support, the WEVets’ Veteran Resource Group, and the Operation Freedom Fleet initiative recognizing military drivers.

Pillen signs nation’s first digital asset bank charter

On Nov. 12, Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen, joined by Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (NDBF) Director Kelly Lammers, issued a charter to Telcoin Digital Asset Bank to operate a digital asset depository institution in Nebraska. This new charter for a digital asset bank is the first of its kind in the United States, and the funds backing each stablecoin are predominantly U.S. government bonds or deposits in FDIC-insured Nebraska banks, the governor’s office said in a statement. For Nebraskans, stablecoins — a version of cryptocurrency designed to maintain a steady value — may soon be another payment option alongside checks, debit cards and digital wallets. Nebraska has been a leader in developing a regulatory framework for digital assets, with the Nebraska Financial Innovation Act signed into law in 2021.

Omaha’s Central Library to open in April

Omaha Mayor John W. Ewing, Jr. has announced that Omaha Public Library’s new Central Library will open to the public on April 19, 2026. A Nov. 13 celebration marked the completion of construction on the building at 72nd and Dodge streets, and Omaha Public Library staff will now spend the next several months moving books, technology and furniture into the library.

The 96,000-square-foot Central Library is one of the largest investments in a public library system in the United States in recent years. The City of Omaha committed $20 million to the project, and the rest of the $158 million goal was met by contributions from local foundations, individual donors and corporations. Central Library’s design was influenced by input from the Omaha community, including more than 1,600 survey responses, meetings with hundreds of community organizations, and a public open house, OPL said in a media release. The effort was led by a partnership between the City of Omaha, OPL, Omaha Public Library Foundation, Do Space and Heritage Omaha, which oversaw raising the funds and construction of the building and will officially gift the building to the city in the spring.

Do Space will be integrated into OPL at the beginning of 2026. Central Library is believed to be the first public library in the United States to utilize an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS), a secured, climate-controlled system capable of storing more than 600,000 materials.

A CLOSER look

Collaboration First

ANNE HINDERY REDEFINES OMAHA’S NONPROFIT SECTOR

Anne Hindery has led the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands since 2008, supporting more than 800 member organizations across Nebraska. With degrees in political science and public administration from the University of Nebraska Omaha, she brings a unique perspective on how nonprofits create sustainable community impact. Midlands Business Journal spoke with her about sector challenges, policy advocacy and why collaboration has become critical for nonprofit survival.

MBJ: You’ve said that in government, every four years someone changes the world back. How does leading NAM allow you to create more lasting change?

AH: I think there’s more sustainability with nonprofits. When I worked in local and federal government, a new administration comes in and 95 percent of the time or more, whatever programs you were working on, they get rid of it. In nonprofits, it’s easier to make connections and get people to talk and work together.

We’ve seen so many nonprofits increasing their collaboration, whether it’s building relationships because they need to refer more people to another organization, or they’re looking at mergers and acquisitions, or maybe they need to go out of business and want to make sure the programs survive. That sustainability is how we see real, lasting impact.

MBJ: Can you give an example of collaboration that surprised you?

AH: During the pandemic (former Avenue Scholars CEO) Ken Bird coordinated these weekly Friday calls with youth-serving agencies, other nonprofits, foundations and sometimes governmental units. He would find a different nonprofit leader each week to facilitate. They did the most amazing job; dozens of people on the call, and it’d be like, “Hey, I got 1,000 gallons of hand sanitizer. Who wants some?”

Or “We’ve got all these feminine hygiene products. Who else needs some for your clients?”

I thought that was magical to see people not getting turfy at all. It was just, “How can we help? What do you need?”

MBJ: What do you think people misunderstand about the nonprofit sector?

AH: The bigger misconception is that nonprofits are charities, and we’re much more than that. Every Nebraskan benefits from a nonprofit every single day whether they realize it or not. The Humane Society, the arts, many of our hospitals are nonprofits. We’re updating our economic impact report for the first time since 2019, and the sneak peek I got was that 1 in 10 people in Nebraska work for a 501(c)(3). More than 90,000 are employed. We’re job creators.

People don’t understand that nonprofits aren’t taking care of other people — it’s how we take care of each other as a community.

MBJ: How has federal uncertainty affected the sector?

AH: We started CEO conversations in July around the state —

BY DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEBRA S. KAPLAN

I like to say we’re the third leg of the economy. Nonprofits partner with government to offer services in a more nimble and quicker fashion

-

ANNE HINDERY

NONPROFIT ASSOCIATION OF THE MIDLANDS

Scottsbluff, Grand Island, Lincoln and two in Omaha — to bring executive directors together and ask what the impacts of executive orders are on them, what they need from NAM or in general to help get through these times.

The biggest aha was how reassuring it was for folks to realize, “I’m not the only one that’s losing money or worried about losing money.”

It’s impacting different parts of the sector in different ways. Some nonprofits work with immigrants or LGBTQ communities and are being impacted directly. But all nonprofits are going to be affected by what’s going on at the federal level, whether they get federal money or not, because of the competition. Philanthropy doesn’t have the rresources; we’re a very generous community, but there’s not enough money to pick up what government doesn’t fund.

MBJ: Your background is in political science and public administration. How does that inform your policy work today?

AH: My MPA from UNO has been instrumental to my career. A lot of people I met in grad school, I still work with today.

There’s this myth that nonprofits can’t get into public policy and advocacy, and that’s wrong. We can and we should. We need to educate our elected officials on what’s going on in the sector and how they can help. We can’t take political positions or endorse candidates, and I don’t want to — it’s hard enough to work with your board without knowing who the Rs and Ds are.

We hold weekly policy calls on Thursdays to help educate, especially those small nonprofits that maybe don’t have a full-time public policy person. We share information and train organizations on how they can educate their boards that they can and should get involved in policy work. If nonprofits aren’t at the table, we’re usually on the menu or fighting over table scraps.

MBJ: You’ve completed four leadership institutes. What’s been the common theme?

AH: It’s really about relationships and learning from others and getting those aha moments. We don’t take the time, or we don’t think we have the time, to really sit back and think.

At our summit last week, I was sitting in some breakouts hearing a lot of ahas: “I’d forgotten about that because we’re so busy dealing with everything happening right now.” The leadership programs give you time to think, to reintroduce concepts, introduce new concepts and help you build relationships. People are excited to be back together, to disconnect from the phone and Zoom and balance that with real life.

MBJ: If you could wave a magic wand and change one thing about how Omaha supports its nonprofit sector, what would it be?

AH: That people could understand nonprofits are part of the economy. I like to say we’re the third leg of the economy. Nonprofits partner with government to offer services in a more nimble and quicker fashion. Government will contract with nonprofits but may not pay us full cost; they’ll pay 70 cents on the dollar and pay it late. Then the nonprofit has to go fundraise.

For people to see that we are a critical piece of the economy, and two, we’re not all volunteers. Some people think if you work for a nonprofit, you should take a vow of poverty. I have kids that need an education and bills to pay. It should be equitable.

MBJ: What concerns you most about the current moment for nonprofits?

AH: Any one of the dozens of things we’re dealing with could be a catastrophe in and of itself: the loss of SNAP benefits, the delay or loss of Medicaid reimbursement. We’ve already seen health care facilities closing in Nebraska. The attacks on certain types of nonprofits, whether environmental or immigration organizations. What are the unintended consequences? Do we have enough people working in our factories?

Nonprofits coordinate and work together, but we really need to figure out how we’re going to survive this moment. I encourage people to give to the nonprofit of your choice, because it makes a difference.

AT A GLANCE

ARE YOU STILL TEACHING YOGA? I’M NOT. I TAUGHT FOR ALMOST 15 YEARS, BUT DURING THE PANDEMIC I HAD TO QUIT. I STILL PRACTICE AT HOME; A COUPLE OF STUDIOS DO A GREAT JOB OF HAVING ONLINE OPTIONS.

IT’S INTERESTING HOW THINGS YOU SAY ALL THE TIME CONNECT. WHEN I WAS TEACHING YOGA, I’D SAY, “YOU’VE GOT TO GET COMFORTABLE BEING UNCOMFORTABLE.” THEN I HAD THIS AHA GOING THROUGH THE PANDEMIC: GETTING COMFORTABLE WITH BEING UNCOMFORTABLE IS PART OF MY DAY JOB AS WELL.

TACOS OR EGG ROLLS, AND WHERE IN OMAHA? TOUGH CALL. IF I’M GOING TO GET EGG ROLLS, I’M GOING TO THREE HAPPINESS. I USED TO LIVE IN THAT NEIGHBORHOOD, SO THEY WERE DANGEROUSLY CLOSE. FOR TACOS, THERE ARE SO MANY GOOD PLACES. I LIKE MULA. HOOK AND LIME IS JUST UP THE STREET. FOOD IS NOW MY HOBBY.

DO YOU HAVE A PRE-MEETING OR PRE-BIG PRESENTATION RITUAL? THAT’S WHERE MY YOGA BREATHING COMES INTO PLAY: A COUPLE OF DEEP BREATHS, SIX-SECOND INHALES, SIX-SECOND EXHALES TO CENTER AND CALM YOURSELF. I TRY TO PRACTICE MY PRESENTATION BUT NOT OVERTHINK IT.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SPOT IN OMAHA THAT TOURISTS DON’T SEEM TO FIND? I’M A BIG FAN OF OUR PARKS. BEFORE OUR DOG PASSED AWAY — HE WAS 17 AND HAD A GREAT LIFE — OUR USUAL HAUNTS WERE WALKING AROUND TURNER PARK OR HANSCOM PARK.

WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED? I USED TO HAVE A BOSS IN GOVERNMENT WHO WOULD SAY, “SOME DAYS IF YOU DON’T PISS SOMEBODY OFF, YOU’RE NOT DOING YOUR JOB.” BY THAT HE MEANT CHALLENGE THE STATUS QUO, ASK QUESTIONS. DON’T BE AFRAID TO GO IN AND SAY, “WAIT A MINUTE, WHY ARE YOU DOING IT THIS WAY? HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT DOING IT THAT WAY?”

NONPROFITS

Purpose-driven GIVING, VOLUNTEERING THE HALLMARK OF GOOD CORPORATE CITIZENSHIP

BY DWAIN HEBDA

Giving back doesn’t have to be a huge production to make a real difference. Sometimes the best approach is to start small and stay consistent.

Following a disappointing 2023 in charitable giving, corporate philanthropy bounced back in a big way last year. American companies donated a record $44.4 billion according to “Giving USA: The Annual Report on Philanthropy,” released in June. The total represents a 9.1% increase in current dollars and 6% when adjusted for inflation.

Corporate donations combined with giving by individuals, foundation giving and bequest giving to reach a new current dollar record of $593 billion last year, per the report.

Experts note this extraordinary level of giving isn’t merely altruism but a continuing trend of companies looking for ways to promote their purpose-driven

- HEIDI GASS, VICE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE BANKING RELATIONSHIP MANAGER, ACCESSBANK

culture. As goodera.com noted this month, “purpose has become the new currency of business.”

Neighborhood impact

Local business executives agreed, saying corporate philanthropy efforts, be they donations, volunteerism or both, should come from a place of authenticity.

“We emphasize that doing good simply matters,” said Ron Trebilcock, senior manager of public affairs for Cox Communications. “When we give back, we’re living out the values we talk about, that we measure and show that we’re

We emphasize that doing good

simply matters. When we give back, we’re living out the values we talk about.

serious about being a responsible, community-minded company.

“It’s also about neighbors helping neighbors. Stepping up for our own community builds trust, strengthens relationships and reminds people that we’re here to support them. Honestly, the emotional payoff is real; employees walk away feeling proud, energized and fulfilled knowing their time and efforts made a meaningful difference for someone else.”

Market research backs up the point that the recipient organization isn’t the only beneficiary of corporate philanthropy. In October, Bank of America reported statistics that showed consumers are four times more likely to purchase from a company they perceive as having a strong purpose, and nearly nine out of 10 consumers would switch brands of comparable quality and price to one that is associated with a cause. These consumer perceptions can add up; BofA noted data showed companies that engage in purpose-driven practices enjoyed 45% higher median pre-tax profits.

Yet another benefit is realized on employee morale, a key payoff in today’s slim labor market.

“Research shows that volunteerism goes beyond improving our community,”

The charitable arm of Cobalt Credit Union, SAC Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 2016, dedicated to building economic and social sustainability. Guided by an employee-led Board, we focus on financial education and supporting military families through outreach and giving.

OUR MISSION

To foster economic and social sustainability through committed support on financial education and the well-being of the military community.

- RON TREBILCOCK, SENIOR MANAGER OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS, COX COMMUNICATIONS

said Teresa Mardesen, executive director for SHARE Omaha, “When co-workers volunteer together, it enhances workplace culture by strengthening team bonds, boosting morale and well-being, and providing a unique way for staff to develop new skills and leadership strengths.”

Heidi Gass, vice president and executive banking relationship manager with ACCESSbank, has seen the internal benefits of that company’s philanthropic efforts up close.

“Supporting nonprofits gives people a genuine sense of pride in where they work,” she said. “At ACCESSbank, being part of the community is just who we are. We live here, our clients live here, and when local organizations need support, we want to be part of the solution. That might mean volunteering at an event, serving on a board or helping with a cause that’s close to home.

“You can see how much that means to our employees, especially for younger professionals. It matters to work for a company that doesn’t just talk about giving back but actually does it. People want to know their work connects to something bigger than what happens inside the building.”

CONTRIBUTION

$ 233,297.50

- SHANDA D. ROSS, DIRECTOR OR COMMUNITY IMPACT, PEOPLE DEVELOPMENT AND CULTURE, NEBRASKA MEDICAL CENTER

ongoing opportunities, and taking the time to track and celebrate their impact,” she said. “When companies incorporate incentives such as volunteer time off, a donation per hour served, or recognition, excitement for volunteerism can become contagious.

“With SHARE Omaha, companies can engage in volunteerism year round. Our staff consults with local business leaders to help corporations ensure their volunteer efforts are meaningful and are meeting company goals.”

Giving programs

Mobilizing employees to donate financially through work is another effective way to support local nonprofits. Such giving programs can take several forms including donating to a foundation that supports several individual nonprofits.

“There are several advantages for companies to consider when contributing funds through a foundation or giving vehicle,” said Joey Felici, senior donor services advisor with the Omaha Community Foundation. “It will allow the company to centralize its giving, so it is in one place and coming out of one fund. They can have a greater impact through strategic giving, offer more flexibility, enjoy tax/financial advantages, enhance the company’s brand and foster employee engagement. Additionally, people can track the fund’s donations in and

Partnering with the Omaha Community Foundation takes the administrative burden off the company’s team.

- JOEY FELICI, SENIOR DONOR SERVICES ADVISOR, OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

- TERESA MARDESEN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SHARE OMAHA

out to measure its impact in the community.”

Felici said companies need to be aware of various regulations and guidelines with such giving plans, as well as follow some rules of thumb that, while not legally required, can benefit all parties when it comes to maximizing donations, which can be as simple as when to time giving.

“Early contributions provide the foundation with a clearer picture of available resources, enabling better planning and allocation throughout the year for the company,” he said. “It will also allow them to measure the impact throughout the year and how many employees have been engaged in the company’s giving campaign. For the donor company,

BUILDING FOR WELLNESS

Behavioral Health & Wellness Center | Omaha, Nebraska

Rooted in Omaha and built with care, the Behavioral Health & Wellness Center reflects Kiewit’s commitment to improving lives through the spaces we create. It’s where quality construction meets compassion — a lasting investment in our community’s well-being.

Purpose-driven

giving earlier creates opportunities for year-round storytelling, employee engagement and marketing campaigns tied to the donations.”

Again, as with the volunteering angle, partnering with outside experts can greatly streamline the process of crafting, rolling out and maintaining a giving program over time.

“Partnering with the Omaha Community Foundation takes the administrative burden off the company’s team and allows the charitable giving experts to highlight a company’s values, goals and culture through impactful giving,” Felici said. “We offer a range of tools, including a corporate donor-advised fund, employee giving programs, a strategic charitable giving plan, and educational/ philanthropic consulting opportunities for executives or emerging leaders.”

Ross said leveraging such expertise, combined with internal support and execution, can help a company achieve the ultimate goal for a corporate giving or service program, which is to solidify behaviors and activities over the long haul.

“Integrating volunteerism into company culture, promoting it in internal communications and offering paid time for volunteering can support ongoing involvement beyond holidays and during periods of greater community need,” she said. “Providing regular opportunities tied to company strategy and recognizing participation can also encourage continued activity. Allowing employees to propose and lead volunteer projects can further expand efforts.

“By incorporating volunteerism into daily operations and leadership priorities, companies can establish ongoing community engagement as part of their organizational culture, rather than an occasional initiative, that can have a positive impact beyond the walls of a company.”

B Corps: a Model for Ethical Practices

For organizations demonstrating the ultimate commitment to social and environmental partnership, a B corporation designation can provide a tangible marker that speaks to the company’s culture.

Motley Fool defines a B Corp as a hybrid between a nonprofit enterprise with a social mission and a traditional corporation, a badge indicating a company has pledged to meet the highest standard of social and environmental behavior, as well as public transparency and legal accountability.

Companies wishing to pursue B Corp status must be confirmed by B Lab, achieving a minimum score of 80 on the group’s 200-point scale. There’s also a legal requirement to ensure the company’s best practices can survive a leadership change and meet a public transparency requirement.

Not unlike LEED Certification for buildings, or a designation certifying a product was ethically or organically produced, B Corp is a visible certification of a company’s behavior relative to the market, the environment and to its employees and customers. The Motley Fool also pointed out benefits such companies enjoy as improved customer and employee loyalty, better stakeholder relations, and attracting customers and investors who believe in the public mission of the B corporation.

Businesses also get access to B corp community data, including information on the most cost-effective way to be sustainable, which companies screen out wasteful spending.

Conversely, B Corp status carries annual administrative and legal costs and, unlike other types of corporations, enjoy no tax breaks, so meeting the ongoing requirements can be time-consuming and expensive. The Motley Fool also noted that the badge can attract closer scrutiny from activists and investors, as B Corp companies are essentially agreeing to be held to a higher standard.

Few U.S. public companies are B corps, but those that are have high name recognition including Patagonia, Ben & Jerry’s, Warby Parker and Lemonade. B Lab claims more than 10,000 companies in 102 countries and representing 163 industries carry the label, employing more than a million workers. For more information, visit bcorporation.net/en-us/.

BY DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED

The 19th annual Shine the Light on Hunger campaign represents a philanthropic story that has defined Greater Omaha for generations. Over 19 years, the campaign has funded 60 million meals for Heartland families through this fundraising effort between several corporations and Food Bank for the Heartland. This year’s goal is to provide 6 million meals to address food insecurity

- MIKE CASSLING, CQUENCE HEALTH GROUP

affecting one out of every seven people in Nebraska and western Iowa. It’s no small effort, and it takes corporate partners such as Conagra Brands Foundation, Farm Credit Services of America, Baker’s and WoodmenLife to lead the charge by matching gifts from community members — this year they will match up to $200,000.

Omaha’s unique position

Omaha’s philanthropic infrastructure engages corporations in ways not seen in other cities. In 2020, the Los Angeles Times released a study comparing charitable giving in Omaha and Wichita, Kansas. Omaha came out on top in almost every category except for education.

United Way of the Midlands understands Omaha’s unique position. Under president and CEO Shawna Forsberg, the organization has achieved a ranking of seventh out of 1,200 United Ways while returning 95 cents of every donated dollar to the community. The organization raised more than $32 million in the past fiscal year from nearly 30,000 donors and 884 companies.

“The metro area is a remarkably generous community, where business leaders view community investment both as a responsibility and a shared priority,” Forsberg said.

That workplace giving model traces to the post-World War II era, when payroll deductions became an innovative way for those without means to write large checks to give to charity. Today’s campaigns support more than 100 local nonprofit programs addressing food insecurity, housing stability, mental health services and career training.

“Workplace giving continues to evolve as companies and employees seek more meaningful and personalized ways to make a difference,” Forsberg said. United Way offers multiple entry

- SHAWNA FORSBERG, CEO, UNITED WAY OF THE MIDLANDS

points including Holiday Helpers, year-end giving and volunteer opportunities.

Mike Cassling, CEO of CQuence Health Group, sees that evolution reflected in his company’s approach. “We’ve become more strategic, more focused and more outcomes-driven,” he said. “We now think about philanthropy not only in terms of writing a check, but in terms of longterm partnerships, leadership involvement and high-impact initiatives that move the community forward.”

Corporate partnerships have expanded beyond traditional workplace campaigns. “Leaders, employees and shareholders are placing greater emphasis on meaningful community engagement and want to give back through more than financial support alone,” Forsberg said.

The Aksarben Foundation brings a complementary approach. Founded in 1895, the organization has awarded more than $65 million in scholarships and community grants, including 50 new four-year college scholarships annually.

Cassling, also vice chair of Aksarben’s board of governors, said the foundation succeeds by moving leaders from conversation to action. “At its best, Aksarben convenes leaders who normally don’t sit at the same table and says: This is our state. These are our kids,” he said. “When people see the stakes spelled out that clearly, they show up ... with action.”

Corporate Giving

DAWN GONZALES

VICE PRESIDENT, COMMUNITY RELATIONS, CENTRIS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

Remarkable community capacity

The Omaha Community Foundation, established in 1982, has become the central coordinating mechanism with more than 2,000 fundholders and $1.5 billion in assets. OCF granted $235.8 million in 2024, supporting 662 foundations with combined assets of $39.3 billion that rank Omaha in the top 3% nationally in per capita giving.

That deep local investment reflects what Cassling calls going “deep where you live.” “Omaha has given my family and our company so much, and there’s a deep responsibility to reinvest here,” he said. His philosophy balances Nebraska as “home base” for philanthropy while extending impact where CQuence and Cassling “can make meaningful, scalable impact” nationally.

Corporate engagement strengthens that foundation. Mutual of Omaha Foundation provides more than $5.6 million in paid grants annually, while First National Bank of Omaha has contributed nearly $4.8 million over five years to educational institutions.

Centris Federal Credit Union demonstrates how grants create

lasting impact. The credit union’s Community Impact Grant Program awarded $50,000 to seven nonprofits in 2025. Dawn Gonzales, vice president of community relations, invokes the parable of the starfish thrower when considering the program’s reach. “Some of these projects will have a long-lasting ripple effect throughout the community,” she said. “While it may be a small ripple, it still makes an impact on those involved.”

United Way’s 211 Helpline and Jobs for America’s Graduates Nebraska, Aksarben’s scholarship programs, Centris’ community grants, and Food Bank for the Heartland’s hunger relief efforts form overlapping networks addressing immediate needs while building long-term capacity. As special parking meters appear throughout Omaha and food donation sites open, they represent more than seasonal tradition. They mark the visible expression of philanthropic infrastructure nearly a century in development, connecting corporate giving from the 1950s with modern capital campaigns embracing digital tools.

COMMUNITY

At Holland Basham Architects, we design spaces that bring people together, fostering connection, inclusivity, and a sense of belonging. Our community-focused designs are crafted to inspire and support vibrant interactions, enriching the lives of those they serve.

www.hollandbasham.com

“Their trusted counsel allows us to focus on the experience, confident that every detail – from complex legal matters to strategic planning – is handled with care. Koley Jessen’s proactive approach, deep understanding of our needs, and unwavering commitment to the community, including their generous pro-bono contributions to College World Series of Omaha, Inc., help us deliver unforgettable experiences and leave a lasting legacy for Omaha.”

– AMY HORNOCKER Executive

EVENT scene

United Way Award Winners

KORALESKIS HONORED AS CITIZENS OF YEAR AT ANNUAL MEETING

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

During the 2025 Annual Meeting on Oct. 27, United Way of the Midlands was proud to announce its 2025 Citizens of the Year and the recipients of the 2024 Corporate Campaign Awards.

Jack and Stephanie Koraleski were recognized as United Way of the Midlands’ 2025 Citizens of the Year. Since 1972, this award has been presented annually to citizens based on their efforts for United Way and other philanthropic work in the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area.

United Way of the Midlands partner organizations were also recognized for their generous support during the 2024-25 campaign with the Corporate Campaign Awards:

• Volunteer Organizations of the Year, Fiserv and Goosmann Law

• New Business Partner of the Year, Google Fiber

• Corporate Partner of the Year-Leadership Donors, Scoular

• Community Impact Partner of the Year, Creighton University

Additionally, Corporate Partner of the Year Awards were presented in the following categories:

• Under 200 Employees: Chesterman Company, Frontier Bank and Deloitte

• 200-799 Employees: Koley Jessen

• 800-plus Employees: Lincoln Financial

“We were thrilled to recognize our partners and individuals who have gone above and beyond to show their care for community by supporting United Way of the Midlands and the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro,” said Shawna Forsberg, United Way of the Midlands president and CEO. “Their commitment and collaboration are creating opportunities and strengthening our community.”

WHAT THE CONSTITUTION MEANS TO ME

BY HEIDI SCHRECK

SEPTEMBER 25 – OCTOBER 12, 2025

EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY EVER TOLD (AND THEN SOME!)

BY MICHAEL CARLETON, JIM FITZGERALD, & JOHN K. ALVAREZ

NOVEMBER 20 – DECEMBER 20, 2025

THE HEART SELLERS

BY LLOYD SUH

FEBRUARY 5 – MARCH 1, 2026

PRIMARY TRUST

BY EBONI BOOTH

MARCH 26 – APRIL 19, 2026

A CHORUS LINE

WINNER OF 9 TONY AWARDS AND THE PULITZER PRIZE MAY 14 – JUNE 14, 2026

DEAL DO THE

ACG brings together every segment of the growth community.

Corporate executives, private equity professionals, investment bankers and intermediaries, attorneys, auditors, accountants, lenders, and others focused on the middle-market make the Association for Corporate Growth a “one-stop shop” for M&A, opportunities, capital, and services.

Bagel Bin

BY DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEBRA S. KAPLAN

From Brooklyn to Omaha

A Sunday morning tradition of bagels and cream cheese sparked a business that would feed Omaha for half a century when David Brezack’s father, Joel, couldn’t find a single bagel in the city during a family visit 50 years ago from Brooklyn.

Those missing bagels became the foundation of Bagel Bin.

“My father at the time was a supermarket manager and wholesale cookie delivery driver. So, we came to visit, and my father, we were here on a Sunday and he got in the station wagon and went to go get bagels and cream cheese and there were no bagels and cream cheese,” David Brezack said.

A simple question

In New York, bagel places stood on every corner. In Omaha, they didn’t exist. The moment transformed into opportunity. David’s father approached Abe Baker, founder of Baker’s Supermarkets, whose store at 132nd and Center streets stood behind David’s grandparents’ home, and asked if he would sell bagels if the family made them. Baker said he would.

That simple conversation set everything in motion.

“So after thinking about it for a little bit that week, he wanted to learn how to make bagels and come here, open a store, sell them to Baker’s — that way at least we had some income coming — and then start this store in this spot,” David said.

David’s father returned to New York and told the family to pack up. He worked for free at bagel shops to learn the craft while his wife and children moved in with grandparents in Omaha. When Joel mastered the technique, David’s grandparents helped finance the store.

“I don’t know if they put their house up for collateral or whatever

they did,” David said.

The gamble paid off immediately. Bakers, which had multiple stores in the community, took the bagels. Most grocery stores in town were owned by Jewish people, including No Frills, Food City and Bag N’ Save, and they followed suit. The wholesale accounts provided steady income while David’s mother, Sue, ran the coffee and bagel shop.

“Mom, who’s still here, ran the coffee shop and bagel shop, which had started off really slow, you know, 23 customers a day, five customers, whatever,” David said. “50 years later it’s this (thriving business).”

Four generations strong

The business became a family affair spanning four generations. David works alongside his brother Scott, who manages operations, while their mother Sue still comes to work daily. David’s son works the night crew, and grandchildren have learned the business the same way their parents did.

“My mom was always a hard worker. My father was a hard worker, so coming here it was just, ‘the kids can work,’ and we’ve been doing it,” David said.

The Brezack family maintains Bagel Bin as the only kosher establishment of its kind in the Midwest, making bagels and supplying coffee shops, schools and cafeterias in the region.

For David, the legacy his father created goes beyond business.

“When my dad died, he didn’t leave me a life insurance policy. He left me a job,” David said. “It’s their home base.”

FOUNDED: 1977

FOUNDED BY:

JOEL AND SUSAN BREZACK CURRENT OWNERS: BREZACK FAMILY

NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 15

ADDRESS: 1215 S. 119TH ST. OMAHA, NE 68144

PHONE: 402-334-2744

WEBSITE: BAGELBIN.COM

HOURS: SUN-SAT: 5 A.M. - 2 P.M.

Caring for People Services

BY TIM TRUDELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAYLEIGH TIPTON

So that gave us the opportunity to really review our mission, our vision, our values and look at everything.”

The journey led to a goal of expanding health care services, she said.

“Right now we are primarily helping seniors and people with disabilities,” Panton said. “Now it’s more physical, but we want to expand into the developmental disability area.

John and Virginia Walker recognized the need for in-home care after spending their days and nights caring for their son, Thomas, who had brain cancer.

Despite the passage of the Family Medical Leave Act in 1993, in the early 2000s it still wasn’t common for a company to support employees stepping away to offer full-time family care. But Virginia’s employer, Oriental Trading Company, allowed her to temporarily leave and care for Thomas until he died at the age of 26.

“After that, they just realized how important it is for people to have that level of care in their home, and realizing, also, that not everybody has that opportunity to stay home,” said Katie Panton, the current CEO and president of Caring for People Services. “So they wanted to create a company that would treat people like family, even if they’re not your biological family, just so that other people would have that same level of care.”

In-home care, health care

John and Virginia Walker started Caring for People Services in 2005. The company provides services in central and eastern Nebraska, as well as western Iowa.

Panton said the company offers in-home care, which includes light housekeeping, cooking and driving clients to appointments or shopping; and in-home health care, which addresses a client’s medical needs, such as caring for illness or injuries. In some counties, Caring for People Services also offers licensed nursing care.

Family ownership

Knowing that her father wanted to retire, but also sought to keep the company in the family, Panton joined Caring for People Services in 2016. Two of her children now work at the company, setting up third-generation ownership, she said.

Taking over from her father as the company’s leader was a challenge, Panton said. But it allowed the company’s leadership to conduct a yearlong reflection of its successes and discuss future goals, she said.

“It was kind of like we’ve always been this mom-and-pop shop, and we still have that same feel today, because it’s so important for us to make sure that everybody has that family feel,” Panton said. “But at the same time, it’s like, ‘OK, how do we grow for the future?’

“We were certified to become a Medicare agency. We’re primarily doing in-home infusions, but we definitely want to expand that into more in-home nursing and other activities, as well.”

Family feel

Having a family feel has always been important to her, Panton said. That view leads company employees to help anyone who reaches out, she said.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re our client or not, we’re going to help you,” Panton said. “If you call and you need some kind of services where we might say that’s not really what we can help with, we will still look at other services that might help you.”

If Panton could sit down with her younger self to discuss life caring for others, she’d offer one piece of advice: Trust your gut.

“I think the bottom line is important, and you’ve got to follow a budget; however, you’ve got to get the right people in the right spots who believe in the mission,” Panton said. “Sometimes you’ve got to spend a little bit more money to do that. But in the end, it more than pays for itself.”

Completely Cat Clinic

BY KARA SCHWEISS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAYLEIGH TIPTON

Feline-focused CLINIC IS THE CAT’S MEOW

Dr. Angela Kade always had a special touch with her feline patients.

“I found over time as a veterinarian in a dog-and-cat practice — especially with the cats that were really scared and spicy and anxious in clinic — that I did well handling cats and helping them feel more at ease,” she said. “I kind of became the ‘cat lady’ of our group.”

So, by the time she had 10 years of clinical experience under her belt, Kade was ready to revisit a longtime ambition.

“That was always the dream for me, to have my own practice and be able to help animals without having to do it someone else’s way,” she said. “An opportunity came up.”

Dr. Sharyn Jones, who launched The Completely Cat Clinic in 1984, was readying for retirement in late 2019 and looking for a new owner to succeed her. A mutual connection suggested that Kade would be a perfect fit.

“She called me; I’ve always kept her voicemail,” Kade said. “So, we started talking, and honestly, what I’ve learned now about business sales — the fact that we started talking in August and we were able to close the whole situation out by the beginning of January — that was incredibly fast.”

Kade wisely chose to keep the clinic’s simple and self-evident name five years ago when she took over the practice, one of only two veterinary clinics in the state that cater solely to cats.

“You usually need a (population) count of at least 100,000 in order to support an exclusive feline clinic,” Kade said. “I really think some smaller towns can probably support a feline-only clinic.

“The idea, historically, of veterinary medicine is that people

won’t spend money on their cats. But that is not the case; that is not what we experience.”

Feline furbabies

Cat parents appreciate that a cat-only clinic also provides more specialized expertise, Kade said, and that cats feel less stress in an environment where they don’t see, hear or smell dogs, especially when they are ill or injured.

“In feline-only medicine, we see a fair amount of recurrent upper respiratory illness and asthma. We see a fair amount of irritable bowel in cats, and so a lot of what we do is more internal medicine-type of work than intensive surgery. We do surgery — soft-tissue surgery and dentistry — but we don’t do any orthopedic surgery,” she said. “Cats are our only priority, and we provide an environment where they’re not as fearful in the clinic, because there are not dogs here barking.”

The Completely Cat Clinic team has grown to four veterinarians and a licensed veterinary technician who also serves as the practice’s administrative manager. The woman-owned practice also happens to be all-female.

“I feel like we are a place where we represent the underrepresented species of veterinary medicine,” she said. “Here, cats are not the lesser of the two.”

The clinic also provides services for several local cat rescues, and Kade is on the Felius Cat Cafe & Rescue board of directors. She personally serves as a feline foster caregiver along with two of her staff. “We’re all in pretty deep.”

FOUNDED: 1984

ACQUIRED: 2020

CURRENT OWNER: DR. ANGELA KADE

ADDRESS: 10930 Q ST. OMAHA, NE 68137

PHONE: 402-592-9001

WEBSITE: COMPLETELYCATCLINIC.COM

HOURS: MON-FRI: 8 A.M. - 5 P.M. SAT: 8 A.M. - NOON

Surreal Media Lab

BY DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEBRA S. KAPLAN

Happy Accident to Legacy

Jason Fischer was doing freelance graphic design work in Omaha with no bills and just enough business to keep going. That was 23 years ago.

His self-described “happy accident” became Surreal Media Lab, a creative agency that has evolved from album artwork and custom auto photography into strategic creative work. Continuing on two decades of success, Fischer’s now building something entirely new.

The aha moment

The turning point came while Fischer was working with Ben Gray, the former television journalist whose 30-year career — one of the longest-running shows in Nebraska — had never been digitized. Younger audiences only knew Gray as a city councilman, not a media pioneer.

“That was this aha moment for me,” Fischer said. “Where does media go? Who are the next Ben Grays?”

The answer was content creators.

Fischer is now developing Agency, a hub for content creators that operates like a gym membership. Members pay monthly fees to access podcast studios, video production spaces, dance and video game areas, with skilled facilitators helping them sharpen their crafts.

“If you took all the sports and combined them together, it wouldn’t be bigger than content creation,” Fischer said. “It consumes so much of our day, our marketing, our storytelling, our journalism. It consumes everything.”

Unlike traditional studio rentals where clients complete their projects and leave, Agency creates community. Content creators from different fields work alongside each other, sparking collaborations and curiosity.

An unconventional path

The vision didn’t come overnight. Fischer studied mechanical engineering at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and worked briefly in the oil industry before coming to Omaha. The creative work he’d been doing on the side became his full-time focus.

For years, he operated in what he calls “a gray area between the arts, history and marketing/advertising.” He worked in the music industry during the era when CD cover artwork still mattered. He built websites for custom auto companies. As technology evolved, he gradually shifted toward video.

Now, with Surreal Media Lab, Fischer assembles all-star teams tailored to each client’s needs rather than maintaining traditional overhead. Agency is involved in site selection, working with BVH architects, and represents Fischer’s belief in legacy and ownership.

“We don’t tell them that,” Fischer said. “We just tell them, ‘Hey, come have fun.’”

Learning to connect

Fischer, now 49, acknowledges he was a late bloomer to business networking. He didn’t discover its power until his mid-30s.

“I wish I would have known about the urban leagues. I wish I would have known about the chambers,” he said. “I was a late bloomer in that area.”

As an introvert, he’s learned to work one-on-one rather than in large networking events, mastering what he calls “the art of taking someone out to eat.”

He’s also learned how to lead.

“Delegation is key,” Fischer said. “Building teams, delegating those responsibilities at higher levels is really, really important.”

That wisdom extends to Agency’s founding principle: giving people space to grow, fail and discover what they’re truly good at.

Morefantasticphotosfrom Surreal Media Lab on mbj.com!

YEAR FOUNDED: 2001 FOUNDER/OWNER : JASON R. FISCHER

ADDRESS: 2626 HARNEY ST. OMAHA, NE 68131

PHONE NUMBER: 402-208-3113

WEBSITE: SURREALMEDIALAB.COM

MBJ’s Fab 50 is a profile series highlighting remarkable individuals shaping our business and nonprofit communities.

Omaha’s Host with the Most MIKE MANCUSO CONTINUES SUCCESSFUL

A few minutes of conversation with Mike Mancuso is all it takes to know one is in the presence of a real fan of Omaha. A lifelong promoter of events, Mancuso, through the family business Mid-America Expositions, has put the city on the radar of an untold number of people, resulting in tourism and spending through the years.

“I started full time with the business in 1988, and I have been president since 1999, sometime around there,” he said. “However, I was born in Lincoln in 1963 and my dad started the company with some partners back in 1964. So, I’ve been running around at shows and helping out and doing things ever since I was little. It has been a lot of fun.”

Mancuso’s knack for keeping the spotlight shining on Omaha mirrors that of his dad, Bob, who began life as a wrestling coach after graduating from the University of Kansas. He led Bellevue High School to a state title before heading to Lincoln to coach the Cornhuskers wrestling team, just as a new football coach named Bob Devaney came to campus.

“Coaching was great, but he wasn’t making great money at that time and had

MIKE MANCUSO, PRESIDENT, MID-AMERICA EXPOSITIONS INC

FAMILY LEGACY

three little ones,” Mike said. “(Dad’s) brother was down here; he was the Civic Auditorium manager and he was the city of Omaha’s public events manager. My uncle said you should come down here, we need somebody doing events. My dad thought, ‘Well, maybe we should give it a try,’ and so we came back here in 1964.”

Bob proved a born salesman and promoter and through the years pulled off many high-profile sports events and quickly expanded into expositions. Mike was a chip off the old block and after graduating from Iowa State, attending on a wrestling scholarship, he held several sales positions with Pitney Bowes and Mitchell Broadcasting, the latter gig bringing him back home to Omaha.

In time Mike wanted to hang his shingle and in telling his ambitions to his father, he got affirmation but also a request: Would he mind temporarily pitching in at the bustling family firm just to lend a little extra help? Mike agreed, and a monthslong gig turned into a career nearly 40 years and counting.

“The creative side of the business was always something that came pretty easily to me,” he said. “The sales side was something I was always involved with, even

BY DWAIN HEBDA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEBRA S. KAPLAN

We are always exploring and talking and looking at events and activities we can bring to Omaha.

-MIKE MANCUSO, MID-AMERICA EXPOSITIONS INC

right out of college and throughout my life, trying to sell ideas or get people motivated or interested. So that came pretty easily as well.

“The most complicated part was just trying to get the finances to make events successful. Thankfully, Omaha’s been a great supporter of us, and we’ve always done really well.”

Today, when Mancuso talks about the company’s blockbuster events past and present — such as the Omaha Product Show, Home & Garden Expo and Taste of Omaha Festival — he’s talking about things tracing an economic impact over decades. Feeding Omaha businesses’ coffers is one of the career perks Mancuso likes most.

“That is one of the biggest rewards of what we’re doing,” he said. “We probably don’t talk enough about the economic benefits of what we’re doing. Omaha is special, and to get people here to experience it and have activities that can draw them and show them our community is an excellent opportunity.”

Of course, tastes change over six decades and so do market circumstances that greatly impact the public’s appetite for expositions and other events. For every event that is still going — or that’s new — there’s at least one that exists only in memory, done in by flagging attendance or lackluster economic times. Then there’s 2020 and COVID-19, which nearly brought down the house entirely.

“This industry is an exciting one to be in because it’s always changing and it has many possibilities,” Mancuso said. “But COVID was an awakening, it was a gut check that was very difficult. Believe me, I kept trying to channel my father, ‘What would he do? How would he get through this?’ You know, it was this test where people started thinking, ‘Well, maybe we don’t need (conventions) anymore, maybe we don’t need to get together anymore.’

“It turned out to be just completely the reverse kind of thinking, you know? These events are something people wanted to get back to and they wanted to get back together so badly. So that was very difficult, but we made it through.”

Today, Mancuso is as busy as ever as he and his team continue to look for ways to introduce and promote events that serve individual industries and the community at large.

“We are always exploring and talking and looking at events and activities we can bring to Omaha,” he said. “People today want an experience, and we’re focused on giving them just that. When we look at the best of the best in the U.S. and when we compare it to here, what we have in Omaha makes it one of the finest destinations in the country.”

FUN FACTS:

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE GUILTY PLEASURE? I LOVE A GOOD MEAL AND UNIQUE FLAVORS AND SO I LOVE GOING OUT. I GREW UP THAT WAY; IN FACT, I DON’T REMEMBER MY MOTHER COOKING A LOT EXCEPT ITALIAN, WHERE SHE DID THAT PASTA. BUT WE LOVED TO GO OUT AND I STILL DO.

WHAT WAS YOUR IDEAL WRESTLING WEIGHT WHEN YOU WERE A COMPETITOR? THAT DEPENDS ON THE YEAR. IN HIGH SCHOOL, IT WAS 119 POUNDS; COLLEGE WAS 126. THE WEIGHT THING WAS ALWAYS DIFFICULT FOR ME BECAUSE I ALWAYS WANTED TO EAT. I HAD TO LOSE 10 POUNDS, JUST WATER WEIGHT, LIKE WEEKLY JUST TO COMPETE AT 126. IN ADDITION TO THAT, WE ALREADY HAD A NATIONAL CHAMP AT 126, SO THEY SAID, “MAYBE LET’S GET YOU DOWN TO 118.” I JUST COULDN’T DO IT.

WHAT WERE YOUR STRENGTHS AS AN ATHLETE? MY ENDURANCE WAS INCREDIBLE. I LOVED TO RUN SO MUCH THAT THE CROSS-COUNTRY COACH AT (CREIGHTON) PREP KEPT TELLING ME I HAD TO BE ON THE TEAM, BUT I ALSO PLAYED FOOTBALL AND WE WERE STATE CHAMPIONS MY SENIOR YEAR. I MAY NOT HAVE BEEN A STARTER, BUT I LOVED PLAYING IT AND I JUST COULD NOT GIVE UP FOOTBALL.

THEFRANCHISEREPORT

SPONSORED

BY

Exploring the Different Franchise Ownership Models

While interest in franchise opportunities is at an all-time high, many of the entrepreneurial-minded candidates investigating them remain unaware of the different ownership models offered. One of the advantages of franchising your way to business ownership is having the flexibility to choose how many units to invest in and your preferred level of involvement.

Hands-on or hands-off?

The owner-operator model is the most common ownership arrangement, in which the franchisee is completely immersed in the day-to-day operations as a hands-on owner. The majority of first-time franchise owners tend to choose this option.

The semi-absentee model offers owners a more passive role in the day-to-day operations, ceding authority to a competent supervisor. This hands-off arrangement is commonly referred to as “managing the manager.” This option tends to be popular with enterprise-level investors who oversee a diversified portfolio of businesses.

Built to scale

Prospective franchise owners can choose to invest in a single location or seek a multi-unit agreement allowing them to scale up as they grow. While the typical arrangement is three locations, you can go higher. Just over half (56%) of all franchise establishments in the U.S., over 850,000 in all, are owned by multi-unit owners. While the investment risk is higher, so are the potential rewards, as there are many ways for multi-unit owners to streamline operations, create efficiencies and increase profitability.

Elite ownership models

Typically reserved for high-net-worth investors, there are a couple of elite ownership models designed for accelerated growth and enterprise-level operation. The Area Development model gives the franchisee direct ownership of a set number of locations in a protected territory which must open according to a set timeline. Then there’s the Master Franchise model, in which the owner recruits their own network of sub-franchisees, typically within a large-scale territory.

Blake Martin owns FranNet of the Heartland, an Omaha-based consultancy that provides no-cost, no-obligation franchise consulting for entrepreneurs and those involved in career transitions to help them establish business ownership of their own. Martin helps produce transformative outcomes for candidates who commit to positive change.

For more information, visit frannet.com/franchise-consultant/blake-martin

SHEREEN HAUKE CO-OWNER

Q&A:

Tell us about the business model of your franchise.

We provide help to individuals and families to allow them to age in place, wherever that may be. This can look like light housekeeping, bathing and dressing assistance, medication reminders, transport and assistance with medical and social appointments, meal prep and healthy meals. We do all of this in a companionship style to help provide dignity and comfort to those that need care.

Why did you choose this industry?

This is an industry where you can directly make a difference in people’s lives each day, both the clients we have and the staff we hire.

Why did you choose this franchise?

We chose this franchise because they were not too big and are passionate about what they do.

What was the process of starting your franchise? What challenges have you faced?

FranNet/Blake Martin provided the best start because they have a thorough and well-thought-out matching process. They were patient with us while we made decisions.The biggest challenge we faced was hiring the right staff.

What have been your biggest wins?

Seeing the difference we make in the lives of those we care for. The tasks of getting dressed and ready for the day stop being the focus of their energy and people get to focus on the things they enjoy. Also, providing a career path for our staff and seeing them grow.

How have you grown through this process?

We have grown to understand that accepting help can be very hard for the aging and that non-medical care services actually return our clients to a higher level of independence.

What does the future hold?

We have heard stories of people giving up their careers to take care of family. We would love to show families how we can support them so their time with aging parents becomes quality time and while they are working, we are taking care of their loved ones.

We would also love to develop our best caregivers who are willing to be leaders in the industry. We also want to help the community understand that non-medical care is very important to overall health and well being.

SPONSORED content

Healthy Home Team

BCBSNE SUPPORTS SANDHILLS HIGH SCHOOL

In 2024, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) launched Healthy Home Team, an initiative providing funding to high schools across the state to uplift local projects improving physical and mental well-being.

Healthy Home Team celebrates schools as a hub for stronger, more active communities. Sandhills High School, located in Dunning, serves as just that — a gathering place bringing people of all ages together.

“In schools in most of Nebraska outside the metro area, it is the community center in a lot of senses,” Jamie Isom, Sandhills High School superintendent, said. “It’s the little kids’ basketball on Saturdays; it’s the community events when there maybe isn’t anywhere else in town that can hold as many people as you need.”

Sandhills was one of 97 high schools to be selected for a Healthy Home Team grant earlier this year and recently received an additional $5,000 grant to further support its well-being initiative: installing a sand separator to enhance the water system.

“When you live in the Sandhills, sand is part of everything,” Isom said. “Having sand in the water that comes into the building impacts the lifetime of the plumbing and the quality of the drinking water.”

With support from BCBSNE’s Healthy Home Team grant, the school installed a building-wide filtration system.

“It spins the water as it comes into the inlet,” Jody Anderson, custodian, said. “It keeps the good water up top, and it filters the bad particles and sand to the bottom.”

Prior to the installation, students and staff relied on a filtered water fountain for drinking and cooking.

“I don’t want to boil my pasta in sand,” Mellissa Freeman, former head cook, said. “I’d go out to the water fountain, fill my pot with water and take it back in and cook it. Now you can put hot water in there from the kitchen, throw it on the stove and it boils faster.”

The new system has improved access to drinking water throughout the building, supporting well-being.

“Though we did have a problem with sand, our water is some of the best water you will ever get,”

Anderson said.

BCBSNE is committed to championing health statewide by uplifting community-driven initiatives, like Sandhills’.

“Nebraska is in our name and at the center of all we do,” Jeff Russell, president and CEO of BCBSNE, said. “We believe in the teams, towns and traditions that make the Good Life great and are honored to support Sandhills High School with our $5,000 Healthy Home Team grant.”

From cheering on student-athletes from the stands to gathering to mourn the loss of a loved one, Sandhills High School brings the community together in moments of joy, times of hardship and the steps in between, embodying the spirit of Healthy Home Team.

“Blaine County is a very special place to those of us who call it home,” Linda Teahon, community booster, said. “We take care of each other.”

Learn more about Healthy Home Team and view a full list of this year’s $500 grant recipients at NebraskaBlue.com/HealthyHomeTeam.

HOW OBBBA COULD HAVE AN IMPACT SPONSORED content

BY DEYNA ROUSE, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF PRACTICE, CREIGHTON’S HEIDER COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND VANESSA DENNEY, VICE PRESIDENT OF DONOR & PHILANTHROPIC SERVICES, OMAHA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

With the passage of Public Law 119-21, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), several major changes to the tax treatment of charitable contributions take effect in 2026. That makes 2025 the perfect year to review your giving strategy and maximize the after-tax impact of your generosity. Here are two powerful tools to consider before year-end.

Qualified Charitable Distributions from IRAs

If you’re age 70 ½ or older and hold an individual retirement account (IRA), you can make a qualified charitable distribution (QCD) of up to $108,000 in 2025 directly to a qualified charity. Doing so keeps that amount out of your taxable income, which can lower your adjusted gross income (AGI) and help preserve other tax benefits that phase out at higher income levels.

Although QCDs don’t generate an additional charitable deduction, the ability to exclude the distribution from AGI often provides a greater overall tax advantage — especially when the funds aren’t needed for living expenses.

OCF offers multiple vehicles for QCDs including:

Designated Funds: allows donors to support specific nonprofits or causes over time, with the foundation managing annual grants to ensure the original intent of the gift is achieved.

Field of Interest Fund: allows donors to target their gifts to address a specific need in the community (geriatric care, the arts, food insecurity, etc.), and our grant committee finds projects and groups that are making an impact in that area.

Year-end Giving

“Bunching” strategy for charitable gifts

The current standard deduction for 2025, the amount available to reduce taxable income without any specific spending, is $31,500 for married couples filing jointly and $15,750 for single filers. This means many taxpayers will no longer itemize deductions, potentially reducing the tax benefit of annual charitable donations.

If your typical yearly giving brings you close to the standard deduction threshold, consider “bunching” donation: combining two years of charitable contributions into one tax year. By doubling up gifts in 2025, you may exceed the standard deduction and itemize, maximizing your deduction in one year and taking the larger standard deduction the next.

This approach is particularly effective for those without mortgage interest deductions, who are less likely to itemize. With another 2% increase to the standard deduction expected in 2026, timing your giving at the end of 2025 could make your dollars go further.

A fund with OCF gives you time to distribute your donations on your own timeline. You can take the bunching deduction for 2025 and then decide over time which organizations to grant your funds to. Our donor advisors can strategize with you to support areas of greatest needs in the community or make gifts to organizations that are already important to you.

Making giving simple, even when laws change

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is reshaping how individuals, families and financial advisors think about charitable giving. Planning now, before the 2026 changes take effect, can help you maximize tax efficiency while living your values through charitable giving.

We at OCF can collaborate closely with you and your financial advisor, attorney or CPA to design giving strategies that meet both your personal and financial objectives. With numerous giving vehicles, our expertise ensures that every charitable dollar works harder for you and for our community.

Reach out to OCF’s Vanessa Denney and the expert charitable giving advisor team at giving@omahafoundation.org to explore the best options for your clients this year.

Brett Carson Chief Investment Officer

Thinking Through (Open)AI Risk

HFS has been an AI believer for the past three years. We think this is a generational technology that holds incredible promise for corporations, investors and society. Just like with past innovations, there could be some negative consequences, but overall we believe it will make our lives better, not worse. We don’t think this is a repeat of the dot-com bubble, although we understand the comparisons. While valuations are elevated relative to history, we still find them reasonable considering what may lie ahead in terms of future profit growth. Lastly, we think we’re still early in this AI bull market. Remember, ChatGPT doesn’t turn three years old until November 30 this year.

So, what could go wrong?

Intelligent investors should always think through such a question. The future is uncertain and we must consider and prepare for alternative scenarios. In fact, we believe that investors should be able to lay out the downside to their thesis better than any bearish investor could. While we can’t cover everything that could derail this AI bull market in this article, HFS believes the biggest risk is OpenAI. This is the inventor of ChatGPT that arguably kickstarted the current AI race. It’s also the most ambitious player in the industry. Over recent months, it has committed to spending $1.4 trillion over the next eight years on computing infrastructure. This equates to $175 billion annually, which is well above the current spending of publicly traded competitors such as Alphabet, Meta, Amazon and Microsoft.

Yet, OpenAI is meaningfully smaller than these peers. Its CEO, Sam Altman, stated recently that it will have over $20 billion in annualized revenue by the end of this year. For comparison purposes, Alphabet’s annualized revenue run rate is now over $400 billion. It expects to spend less than $100 billion on computing infrastructure this year, largely using internally generated cash. The obvious question is how will OpenAI be able to meet its commitment of spending $175 billion annually with only $20 billion of sales?

On the surface, the math clearly doesn’t work. This is why investors seem to panic anytime someone from OpenAI seems defensive on a podcast or uses poor word choice in an interview. To make matters worse, OpenAI and its CEO have been a beacon for controversy since the beginning. This includes converting from a nonprofit to a for-profit corporation to OpenAI’s board suddenly ousting Sam Altman as CEO in November 2023 due to his handling of AI safety. (He was reinstated shortly thereafter.)

Further adding to investors’ angst is the fact that OpenAI is a private company and isn’t held to the same levels of transparency as its publicly traded peers. The company can selectively disclose positive information while keeping the less flattering facts to itself.

As is usually the case, the details matter. We’ve heard other investors in OpenAI state that about half of its $1.4 trillion of committed spending is being funded by its partners. For example, Nvidia is buying equity from OpenAI of up to $100 billion, which will be used to help pay for its computing buildout. It has inked similar deals with Oracle, Advanced Micro Devices and Softbank, among others. If true, this would bring OpenAI’s spending commitment down to about $700 billion, or just shy of $90 billion annually. However, that still leaves a large gap between current sales and future spending commitments.

Ultimately, OpenAI needs to deliver on its growth projections. It and others in the industry have stated that they remain short of computing capacity due to strong demand. If OpenAI had more data centers and power, it could grow even faster. As we stated earlier, OpenAI expects to hit $20 billion of annualized sales later this year. This is up from $13 billion this past June and $5.5 billion in 2024. By 2027, its CEO aims

to reach $100 billion and “hundreds of billions” by 2030. If those targets are hit, we expect investors will be relieved and power this bull market higher. If OpenAI falls short or delays these projections, we would anticipate a volatile and uncertain market until its growth gets back on track. Not everything in AI rests upon OpenAI, but we believe a shortfall would call into question others in or related to the industry.

Our purpose here isn’t to alarm investors and cause them to become defensive. As we said in the opening paragraph, we continue to be optimistic about AI and its incredible potential. However, HFS also believes it is critical to understand the downside scenarios to any investment thesis. It can help you spot future warning signs.

It’s worth noting that OpenAI has been exceeding its revenue targets despite being short on computing capacity. Adding significantly more capacity over coming years should continue to fuel remarkable growth. That said, we believe investors should be paying attention to OpenAI’s progress as opposed to valuation multiples or “market breadth”.

Unless otherwise cited, the statements and commentary provided are opinions of Harrison Financial Services as of November 13, 2025, and are subject to change. There is no guarantee that any forecasts made will come to pass. This material does not constitute investment advice and is not intended as an endorsement of any specific investment or security. References to specific securities are intended to explain market drivers. The views on the relative attractiveness of different asset classes are made in the context of a well-diversified portfolio, not in isolation. Please remember that all investments carry some level of risk, including the potential loss of principal invested. Indexes are unmanaged and cannot be invested in directly. Returns represent past performance, are not a guarantee of future performance and are not indicative of any specific investment. No investment strategy can assure profit or protect against loss.

MIDLANDS LEADERS q&a

ALICIA PLESSNER, SENIOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGER, RONCO CONSTRUCTION

Midlands Leaders is a weekly section showcasing individuals who are making an impact in the community through their professional and volunteer endeavors. To nominate someone for this section, email news@mbj.com with the individual’s name, position, company and email.

ALICIA PLESSNER MIDLANDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

Bio:

As senior project manager for Ronco Construction, Alicia Plessner focuses on teamwork, leadership and building strong relationships across every level of the company. She developed a passion for construction at a young age, inspired by her grandfather who owned a small construction company in her hometown.

A native of Fremont, Plessner is a graduate of the University of Nebraska. She has served in a variety of leadership roles including National Association of Women in Construction and as Ronco’s 2025 Safety Committee Chair. In the latter role, she was instrumental in the company recently being honored with its sixth consecutive and 22nd overall National AGC Safety Award from the Associated General Contractors of America Nebraska Building Chapter.

What led you to your chosen field?

My grandfather’s work ethic and dedication made a lasting impression on me. I grew up spending time on job sites with him, learning not only the technical side of construction but also the importance of taking pride in your work. Although I briefly considered other paths, nothing ever felt as natural or fulfilling as construction. It has always felt like home to me.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

What I enjoy most is the energy that comes with starting a new project. In construction, no two days are ever the same; each brings new challenges, opportunities and lessons.

What truly makes this work meaningful to me is the people I get to do it with. I genuinely enjoy working with my friends and teammates and I’m proud to be part of a group that looks out for one another and celebrates shared success. When everyone is aligned and working toward the same goal, you can truly move mountains. That sense of teamwork and friendship is what drives me every day.

What made you want to take a lead role in the safety committee?

I had only been with Ronco a few months when I was approached about taking a leadership role on the committee. I saw it as a great opportunity to learn more about the company and to contribute to something that impacts everyone, which is safety.

My role was to help lead initiatives that gave our teams more tools and training to stay safe, but it is the dedication and accountability of every person at Ronco that makes this program work. Every employee at Ronco has both the authority and responsibility to enforce safety on the job. Our sites are regularly reviewed through multiple channels to ensure best practices are being followed. We use every resource available to us and when we encounter challenges that do not have an immediate solution, our safety committee collaborates to find the best path forward. That level of teamwork and communication keeps our program strong and effective.

Across

1. C sharp, 2 words

6. Did laps, say

10. Omaha’s farm to ____ movement

14. Make jubilant

15. Rabbit look-alike

16. Disney’s “___ and the Detectives”

17. Ghost-like

18. Jessica of “Dark Angel”

19. Letterman, familiarly

20. Important Omaha industry throughout its history

23. Born as

24. Wapiti

25. Small-time, 2 words

27. Shade of brown

31. Half-and-half half

32. Mimics

33. Person who consecrates or makes something holy

37. ‘’___ smile be your umbrella’’- 2 words

38. Phrase of intention- 2 words

40. Ancient sacred Indian writings

41. Founder of Boys Town, Father Edward _____

43. Nasal cavity

44. Tilts

45. Drawing

46. Five iron

48. Mai ___

49. Best boxer in the world (he’s from Omaha) ____ Crawford

50. Lamp post, 2 words

56. Doctrines

58. “Rogue Nation” female character, ___ Faust

59. Less welcoming

60. Stock wood

61. Klutz’s cry

62. Prefix with magnetic

63. Writer Ferber

64. ___ of the above

65. Letter-shaped opening, 2 words

Your thoughts on Ronco receiving this prestigious recognition?

This recognition is a powerful validation of the culture we have built and the daily effort our teams put into maintaining a safe environment. It represents the hard work, accountability and dedication of everyone at Ronco who takes safety seriously every single day. We invest heavily in our safety program because our people are our greatest asset, and nothing matters more than ensuring they return home safely to their families. This achievement belongs to every person at Ronco and reflects the passion and pride in what we do.

Down

1. Judge 2. Take off 3. Zhivago’s love 4. Working away, 2 words

Conical shaped tents

Shanty

7. Get some exercise

8. Decisional

9. Have good intentions, 2 words 10. Part of FDIC, abbr.

11. Middle-eastern nationality 12. Pin

13. “Fish Magic” painter

21. Drink in a mug

22. Aspiration

26. People may act terribly in it, 2 words

27. Heifer

28. German car name

29. Greek cheese

30. Former French coins

31. Facial features

34. Hit the road

35. Cabinet dept., abbr.

36. Precipitate

38. Initiating combustion

39. Downfall

42. Cries of delight

James Curran invented this device in Omaha, 2 words 45. Perched 46. Pondered 47. Pitcher, of a sort 48. Rib 49. Quick snack

51. Sports network, abbr.

52. Frosts, as a cake

53. Demoiselle

54. Submarine

55. Horse’s gait

57. Relative of reggae

UPCOMING events

Nov. 22

Midlands African Chamber and MAC Foundation Gratitude Gala

Location: Metropolitan Community College Institute for Culinary Arts 5370 N. 30th St., Building 22

This event honors outstanding individuals, businesses and organizations that have advanced the mission, vision and values of the Midlands African Chamber by fostering diversity, inclusion and a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. The fundraiser will also feature award and scholarship presentations. — midlandsafricanchamber.com

Nov. 24

AgConverge Conference

Location: Bayer Crop Science Water Utilization Center, 76268 NE-47 in Gothenburg

This conference for entrepreneurs, producers, researchers, corporations and investors focuses on how agriculture, technology and entrepreneurship shape the future of food, energy and water. Hosted by Spur Ventures in the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Department of Biological Systems Engineering and the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources in partnership with Bayer Crop Science and other collaborators. — ianr.unl.edu

Dec. 1

Greater Omaha Chamber Employer Coalition (POWER Series)

Location: Virtual

In this interactive session presented by executive coach Aimee Gibson, participants are encouraged to interact and share their ideas as they gain information on leadership tools to increase employee retention and build stronger teams within their organization. — omahachamber.org

Crossword by Myles Mellor – Answers

A roundup of upcoming events in the area

Dec. 3

Midwest Labs 2025 Agronomy Seminar

Location: Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District 222 N. 10th St.

This event is a deep dive into the latest trends and advancements in the field of agronomy and will offer networking plus an opportunity to hear top experts in the field sharing their knowledge and insights on the latest trends and technologies. — midwestlabs.com

Dec. 4

63rd Annual Great Plains Federal Tax Institute

Location: Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha Downtown Old Market 555 S. 10th St.

The Great Plains Federal Tax Institute’s multidisciplinary continuing education activity is for attorneys, CPAs, insurance pros and other tax professionals and provides an annual update in taxation law.

— greatplainstax.org/2025-institute

Dec. 5

Omaha emPower Breakfast

Location: German American Society, 3717 S. 120th St.

This monthly event is nonpromotional and open to the public to allow participants to have fun and build relationships. December’s speaker is Karl Schaphorst, CEO of Sandler Training Omaha. — omaha.empowerbreakfast.org

Dec. 6

15th Annual Christmas in the Village

Location: 24th Street from Ohio to Burdette Streets

This event, presented by the Empowerment Network and Omaha Economic Development Corporation, celebrates North Omaha’s historic district and also showcases local vendors including the UnionMade Artist Market. — empoweromaha.com

Dec. 9

Entrepreneur’s Education Collaborative organized by FranNet of The Heartland

Location: MCL Construction, 14558 Portal Circle

Topic: Pricing Strategies. An expert panel explores the topic of pricing strategies to help participants stop leaving money on the table by learning more about pricing models, psychology and competitive analysis. — sourcelinknebraska.com/eecnebraska

Dec. 10

Downtown Omaha Community Forum

Location: Virtual

Downtown Omaha residents, workers, visitors and business owners are invited to join Keep Omaha Beautiful and the Omaha Downtown Improvement District for an interactive community forum on litter hotspots and practical solutions. The forum will include a briefing on a citywide litter study, encourage participants to share their observations, provide breakout groups to map problems and test solutions, and help set priorities for next year’s efforts.

— omahadowntown.org

Dec. 11

Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Celebrate Business Awards

Location: Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel 333 S. 13th St. in Lincoln

The Celebrate Business Awards honor outstanding businesses and leaders shaping Lincoln’s future. Awardees include A1 Automotive, Small Business of the Year; Don’t Panic Labs, Cornerstone Award; Gravel Worlds, Tom Lorenz Tourism Development Award; Haleon, Manufacturer of the Year; Senior Care Finder, Entrepreneurial Spirit; and Tom Ball, Roger T. Larson Community Builder Award). — lcoc.com

IN THE spotlight

Michelle Zlomke

WEST GATE BANK WELCOMES MICHELLE ZLOMKE

The West Gate Bank Board of Directors is pleased to welcome Michelle Zlomke as Vice President, Business Banking Operations Officer.

Zlomke earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Leadership and Communication with a Business Administration minor from Nebraska Wesleyan University. She brings 16 years of banking experience to her role with the Business Banking Solutions team. Zlomke will provide subject matter expertise, operational support and team leadership to direct the internal workflows, systems and processes to meet our business deposit customers’ banking needs.

Zlomke is a recent graduate of the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado (GSBC), a nationally recognized leadership development program for community bankers. She is a member of Rotary 14; President of the Board of Directors of EducateEd; and serves on the Board of Directors for Leadership Lincoln, Heartland Cancer Foundation and Lincoln Children’s Museum.

WESTGATE.BANK

John Larsen

UNION BANK & TRUST PROMOTES LARSEN

Matthew Tingle

DR. MATTHEW TINGLE JOINS ORTHONEBRASKA TEAM

OrthoNebraska is expanding its sports medicine expertise with Dr. Matthew Tingle, an orthopedic surgeon who treats complex and common injuries of the knee, shoulder and elbow. Dr. Tingle grew up in Kansas City, where his lifelong love of sports — especially lacrosse, baseball, basketball, golf and CrossFit — sparked his interest in how the body moves and recovers. He played and coached lacrosse at the University of Kansas, developing a deep understanding of sports performance and the mechanics of movement.

Dr. Tingle focuses on conditions ranging from ACL and meniscus injuries to rotator cuff and labrum tears, as well as shoulder arthritis and less common injuries. He performs arthroscopic procedures, ligament repairs and total shoulder replacements. His expertise allows him to treat athletes and active patients of all levels, helping them safely return to the sports and activities they love.

Union Bank & Trust (UBT) recently promoted John Larsen to Assistant Vice President of its Corporate Trust department. In his new role, Larsen will be responsible for debt service payment processing, non-discretionary investment of assets, monitoring compliance with covenants, maintaining custody and safekeeping accounts, and providing escrow services.

UBT.COM/ABOUT/DIRECTORY/JOHN-LARSEN

Headquartered in Omaha, Baird Holm is Nebraska’s oldest and largest continuously operating law firm.

The new location strengthens the firm’s presence in Lincoln and surrounding communities, where it has long-standing client relationships. The new location also enables many Baird Holm attorneys who reside in Lincoln to work closer to home and deepen their engagement with the city’s thriving business community.

“Our Lincoln office allows us to better serve existing clients and connect with new ones,” said Christopher R. Hedican, Managing Partner. “We’re committed to supporting Lincoln’s business and civic organizations and look forward to being an active part of the community.”

ORTHONEBRASKA.COM

Nathan Christ

FIRST WESTROADS BANK WELCOMES NATHAN CHRIST AS PRESIDENT AND CHIEF LENDING OFFICER

The office will provide the same legal services as the Omaha headquarters, including estate planning, corporate law, labor and employment, health care and real estate. Baird Holm attorneys are ready to collaborate with clients in Lincoln and continue the firm’s tradition of service. The firm also plans to maintain its support for Lincoln’s nonprofit and charitable organizations, similar to its longstanding community involvement in Omaha and other Nebraska communities. Baird Holm looks forward to contributing to the city’s growth and success.

For more information, visit bairdholm.com or call 402-480-7040.

He sees patients at OrthoNebraska’s Aksarben, Council Bluffs and Oakview clinics in Omaha. With his combination of athletic insight, surgical skill and personalized care, Dr. Tingle strengthens OrthoNebraska’s commitment to high-quality, patientfocused sports medicine.

OMAHA – Chris Murphy, Executive Chairman of First Westroads Bank, has announced that Nathan Christ has rejoined the organization in the role of President and Chief Lending Officer. Mark Ellerbeck will continue as CEO.

Christ previously served with First Westroads Bank as Vice President of Commercial Banking, where he built strong relationships with business clients and contributed to the bank’s growth. Most recently he served as President of Foundation One Bank.

“We are excited to welcome Nate back to First Westroads Bank,” Murphy said. “He is an exceptional banker and a respected leader whose experience and integrity align with our values as a locally owned community bank.”

“Nate brings valuable guidance and leadership to our talented staff and strengthens our already strong leadership team,” Ellerbeck said. “He embodies the values that have long defined our bank: relationship-driven service, integrity and commitment to our community.”

As President and Chief Lending Officer, Christ will work closely with the leadership team to strengthen the bank’s lending portfolio, support commercial clients and uphold the bank’s relationship-based approach to customer service.

“I’m honored to return to First Westroads Bank,” Christ said. “This institution has a long tradition of community involvement and local decision-making. I’m excited to help lead a team that values its customers and its hometown as much as I do.”

First Westroads Bank is a locally owned independent community bank that values strong relationships and embraces your goals for your life. With nearly 60 years of financial strength, we remain committed to enhancing the quality of life in our community and offering safe and secure banking technology that makes life easier. For more information, visit firstwestroads.bank

ASK AN attorney

DIANA MORALES MCFARLAND, ATTORNEY

Worksite Compliance in a New Era: 10 Things to Know About I-9s

In an era of heightened scrutiny, I-9 compliance has never been more critical. I-9 audits are the most common type of worksite enforcement with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) inspecting I-9 forms to verify employment authorization. Maintaining I-9 compliance is essential to avoid penalties, safeguard reputation and ensure smooth operations.

Q: What is Form I-9?

A: Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, is issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and must be completed by all employers to verify a new hire’s identity and work authorization.

Q: What is the current version of Form I-9?

A: The 01/20/2025 edition is the current version.

Q: What does Section 1 require?

A: Section 1 collects the employee’s biographical, contact and citizenship/ immigration information and must be completed by the first day of employment.

Q: What does Section 2 require?

A: Section 2 requires physically examining the employee’s documents, recording the document details, entering the start date and including employer information, and must be completed within three business days of the first day of employment.

Q: What is the Lists of Acceptable Documents?

A: The Lists of Acceptable Documents provides three categories of acceptable documents: List A (establishes both identity and employment authorization), List B (establishes identity) and List C (establishes employment authorization). Employees must present either one document from List A or a combination of one document from List B and one document from List C.

Q: Does Supplement A and B need to be completed?

A: No. Supplement A is only used when a preparer and/or translator assists an employee. Use Supplement B if the employee requires reverification, is rehired within three years or has a legal name change.

Q: What is the I-9 retention policy?

A: Employers must keep I-9s for all current employees. For terminated employees, retain I-9s for three years after the date of hire, or for one year after employment is terminated, whichever is later.

Q: What is a Notice of Inspection (NOI)?

A: A NOI initiates a DHS audit. It specifies the date, time and location for the inspection and requires the employer to present all documentation within three business days. It also requests supporting documentation such as employer’s payroll, list of active and terminated employees, articles of incorporation, etc.

Q: What type of penalties can an employer face?

A: ICE distinguishes between substantive violations, which are serious and can trigger penalties, and technical violations, which are minor procedural errors that can be corrected. Fines for substantive violations range from $288 to $2,861 per I-9, depending on the percentage of errors found in the total number of I-9s audited.

Q: What can employers do to prepare for an ICE I-9 audit?

A: Employers can conduct internal I-9 audits to identify and correct errors early. Key steps include ensuring all employees have a completed I-9, retaining I-9s as required, training staff responsible for I-9 completion, and consulting counsel for compliance audits, especially for remote hires, reverifications and E-Verify cases.

Diana Morales McFarland provides counsel and representation on immigration matters for businesses and individuals worldwide, guiding them through the complexities of immigration law. She also delivers training programs to corporate clients of all sizes, helping them understand and maintain compliance. Diana has been successful in developing and managing creative, cost-effective and sound legal strategies for a diverse set of clients.

DISCLAIMER: Not Legal Advice or Attorney-Client Relationship. The material contained in this article has been prepared by McGrath North for informational purposes. The information is not intended to be and should not be considered legal advice. Transmission of the information is not intended to create and does not create an attorney-client relationship.

LEGAL notices

Important Service Change

Effective October 31, 2025:

The Midlands Business Journal will continue to provide publishing services for legal notices but will no longer submit notices to the Nebraska Secretary of State (SOS).

Affidavits with a final publication date of October 24, 2025 will be filed.

Thank you for using MBJ as your preferred publication for legal notices. We appreciate your business.

For direct SOS submissions, visit: www.nebraska.gov/apps-sos-edocs/

Questions about SOS submissions? Call 402-471-4077

Midlands Business Journal Legal Notice Submission Guidelines

Please visit https://mbj.column.us/place to submit all legal notices to the Midlands Business Journal. Through this platform, you can submit your notice, receive pricing information, make payment, track your notice, and receive proof of publication.

For trade names, submit a copy of the approved Application for Registration of Trade Name from the Secretary of State (must include barcode in upper right-hand corner). Trade names run for one week only. The flat fee for a trade name is $50.

As a publisher and not a legal advisor, we print notices exactly as they are submitted. Complimentary reruns are only provided when a notice was rejected or affected due to an MBJ error. All companies submitting notices are responsible for ensuring content meets state requirements and bearing the cost of republishing if the notice is rejected due to misinformation or missing information. Submitters are responsible for filing their notice with the Secretary of State as required by law. The deadline is noon on Monday for notices to start publishing that Friday. Payment must be received prior to publication. Questions? Contact our Legal Department at legals@mbj.com.

LEGAL NOTICE

Cameron D. Carney, #28418

Lamson, Dugan & Murray , LLP

10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, NE 68114

TO THE DEFENDANT FRONTLINE FINISHING GROUP, INC.:

YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 24th day of September 2025, ASHLEN AND WHITNEY JOHNSON, as Plaintiffs, filed their Complaint in the District Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, Case No. CI 25-8163, showing Defendant, Frontline Finishing Group, Inc. (“Frontline”) has agreed to a Settlement Agreement with Plaintiffs on or about July 29, 2025, that Defendant Frontline has failed to honor its obligations under the Settlement Agreement, and requesting the Court determine that Defendant Frontline has breached the Settlement Agreement and enter judgment against Defendant Frontline in the agreed upon amount as per the Settlement Agreement, as well as such other and further relief as the Court deems just and proper. YOU ARE REQUIRED to answer the complaint of the Plaintiff on or before 30 days after the last publication of this Notice or the allegations in said complaint will be taken as true and judgment entered accordingly.

DATED this 14 th day of November, 2025.

ASHLEN AND WHITNEY JOHNSON, Plaintiffs, By: Craig F. Martin, #21812

Cameron D. Carney, #28418

LAMSON DUGAN & MURRAY LLP

10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, NE 68114-3743

Telephone: (402) 397-7300

Fax: (402) 397-7824

E-Mail: cmartin@ldmlaw.com

E-Mail: ccarney@ldmlaw.com

ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFFS

4919-9554-8538, v. 1

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF EARLY BIRD REAL ESTATE

Early Bird Real Estate, LLC organized under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. Its designated and principal office address is 8264

Hascall St Suite 204 Omaha NE 68124. Its registered agent is Bradley A. Boyum at 1227 S 119th St Omaha NE 68144.

First publication November 7, 2025, final November 21, 2025

Gross Welch Marks Clare, PC LLO

2120 So. 72nd St., Ste. 1500 Omaha, NE 68124

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF CHANGE OF NAME OF SALIFOU INVESTMENTS, LLC

Notice is hereby given that pursuant to the Amended Certificate of Organization of Salifou Investments, LLC, the name of the corporation is amended as follows:

The name of the corporation is changed to Oshuer, LLC

This amendment was effective on August 1, 2025.

First publication November 7, 2025, final November 21, 2025

MARY E. VANDENACK,

ATTORNEY DUGGAN BERTSCH LLC

17007 Marcy St, Suite 3

OMAHA, NE 68118

TELEPHONE (402) 504-1300

NOTICE OF AMENDED CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION OF MV SERVICES, LLC

Notice is hereby given that MV SERVICES LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company (the “Company”), filed an Amended Certificate of Organization with the Secretary of State on November 4, 2025. The Amended Certificate of Organization changed the name of the Company to PROTEGO LLC. The address of the registered office of the Company is 17007 Marcy Street, Suite 3, Omaha, NE 68118-3121. The name and address of its registered agent is Mary E. Vandenack, 17007 Marcy Street, Suite 3, Omaha, NE 68118-3121.

First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

LEGAL NOTICE

Cameron D. Carney, #28418

Lamson, Dugan & Murray , LLP 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, NE 68114 TO THE DEFENDANT RUSTY MCCAUGHEY DBA RAM SERVICES: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 27th day of August 2025, WOOD FASHION, LLC, as Plaintiff, filed its Complaint in the District Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, Case No. CI 25-7292, showing Defendant, Rusty McCaughey dba RAM Services has not initiated judicial proceedings to enforce the construction liens he filed on June 7, 2023, that the construction liens be discharged and the Clerk of the District Court be directed to remove the construction liens and release the Other Security, to-wit the Cashier’s checks in the amounts of $3,714.50 and $4,388.40, as well as such other and further relief as the Court deems just and proper.

YOU ARE REQUIRED to answer the complaint of the Plaintiff on or before 30 days after the last publication of this Notice or the allegations in said complaint will be taken as true and judgment entered accordingly.

DATED this 13 th day of November, 2025.

WOOD FASHION, LLC, Plaintiff,

By: Craig F. Martin, #21812

Cameron D. Carney, #28418

LAMSON DUGAN & MURRAY LLP

10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68114-3743

Telephone: (402) 397-7300

Fax:(402) 397-7824

E-Mail:cmartin@ldmlaw.com

E-Mail:ccarney@ldmlaw.com

ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFF

4900-0454-2073, v. 1

First publication November 21, 2025

Gross Welch Marks Clare, PC LLO 2120 So. 72nd St., Ste. 1500 Omaha, NE 68124

LEGAL NOTICE OF CHANGE OF NAME OF SALI INVESTMENTS, LLC

Notice is hereby given that pursuant to the Amended Certificate of Organization of Sali Investments, LLC, the name of the corporation is amended as follows:

The name of the corporation is changed to Ashair, LLC

This amendment was effective on August 1, 2025.

First publication November 7, 2025, final November 21, 2025

MARY E. VANDENACK, ATTORNEY

DUGGANBERTSCH, LLC

17007 Marcy Street, Suite 3 Omaha, NE 68118

Telephone 402-504-1300

NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION OF ORGANIZATION OF COCKLE BILLOTTE COCKLE LLC

Notice is hereby given that COCKLE BILLOTTE COCKLE LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company (the “Company”), has been dissolved pursuant to the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The Company has collected and liquidated its assets, discharged its liabilities, distributed its remaining property to its members, and done every other act necessary to wind up and liquidate its business and affairs.

Andrew H. Cockle, a Member of the Company, was the person responsible for winding up and liquidating the business and affairs of the Company. All claims against the Company must be made in writing to 17007 Marcy Street, Suite 3, Omaha, Nebraska 68118 and must include (1) the amount of the claim; (2) the basis of the claim; and (3) all documentation supporting the

claim, including, without limitation, invoices, purchase orders, and contracts. All claims against the Company will be barred unless a proceeding to enforce the claim is commenced within five (5) years after the publication of this notice.

First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

NOTICE IN THE COUNTY COURT OF DOUGLAS COUNTY, NEBRASKA

ESTATE OF DONALD L. PIKSA, DECEASED

ESTATE NO. PR 25- 1608

Notice is hereby given that on October 2, 2025, in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, the Registrar issued a written statement of Informal Probate of the testate Estate of said Decedent and that Kenneth A. Piksa, 12920 Josephine Street, Omaha, NE 68138, was informally appointed by the Registrar as Personal Representative of the testate Estate of Donald L. Piksa.

Creditors of this Estate must file their claims with this Court on or before January 13, 2026 or be forever barred.

Valerie Bird Clerk of the County Court

Address of County Court: County Court of Douglas County Hall of Justice Douglas County Probate Division Omaha, NE 68183

Charles E. Dorwart (Bar I.D. # 16456) Charles E. Dorwart, P.C., L.L.O. Dorwart Law Office 7305 Main Street Ralston, NE 68127 Tel: (402) 558-1404 Fax: (402) 779-7498

First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE COUNTY COURT OF DOUGLAS COUNTY, NEBRASKA

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LINDA LOU ALBELO, Decedent CASE NO: PR-25-1904

Notice is hereby given that on the 5th day of November, 2025 in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, the Registrar issued a written statement of Informal Intestacy of the Estate of Linda Lou Albelo and that the following surviving child was appointed as the Personal Representatives of this Estate: Nicholas Albelo 3022 South 179th Avenue #156 Omaha, NE 68135

Creditors of this Estate must file their claims on or before January 13, 2026 or be forever barred.

Valerie Bird Clerk of the County Court Hall of Justice - 3rd Floor 17th and Farnam Omaha, NE 68102

Prepared and submitted by: Dennis P. Lee (16296) LEE LAW OFFICE 2433 South 130th Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, NE 68144 (402) 934-4409 Attorney for the Personal Representative

First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE COUNTY COURT OF DOUGLAS COUNTY, NEBRASKA

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT C. BAUTZ, JR., Deceased CASE NO. PR 25 - 1543 JUDGE: LOHAUS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on October 1, 2025, in the County Court of Douglas County, Nebraska, RANDALL D. BARTLETT, whose address is, 3508 South 168th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68130, was appointed by the Court as Personal Representative of the Estate. Creditors of this Estate must file their claims with this Court on or before January 13, 2026, or be forever barred.

Valerie Bird Clerk of the County Court

James R. Sacoman Attorney for Personal Representative 14811 Charles Plaza Omaha, Nebraska 68154 Telephone: (402) 393-3000

First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

Jeffrey T. Palzer * 3555 Farnam St., Ste.1000 Omaha, NE 68131

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF LATTE 12410, LLC

The name of the Company is LATTE 12410, LLC.

The street address of the initial designated office is 412 N. 97th Court, Omaha, NE 68114. The Registered Agent is Jeffrey T. Palzer, and the Registered Agent’s address is 3555 Farnam St., Ste. 1000, Omaha, NE 68131. The general nature of the Company is real estate holding company. The Company commenced on November 13, 2025, and shall have perpetual existence.

The affairs of the Company are to be conducted by Members, the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and such officers as the Members shall determine.

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

LAMSON DUGAN & MURRAY LLP

Phillip T. Sanberg, Attorney 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, NE 68114

NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF VERSO HOOK PARTNERS, LLC

Notice is hereby given of the formation of a limited liability company under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the limited liability company is VERSO HOOK PARTNERS, LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 735 N 14th St., Omaha, NE 68102. The name and address of the registered agent is LDM Business Services, Inc., 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114. The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business. The company commenced existence on November 13, 2025, and shall have perpetual duration. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by the Members, as prescribed by the Operating Agreement.

LDM Business Services, Inc.

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF POS ENTERPRISES, LLC

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that POS Enterprises, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. The name and address of the Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 9500 W. Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha, NE 68114.

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

LAMSON DUGAN & MURRAY LLP

Phillip T. Sanberg, Attorney 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, NE 68114

NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF NEXT PAGE, LLC

Notice is hereby given of the formation of a limited liability company under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the limited liability company is NEXT PAGE, LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 1701 N 24th St., Ste. 102, Omaha, NE 68110. The name and address of the registered agent is LDM Business Services, Inc., 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114. The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business. The company commenced existence on November 13, 2025, and shall have perpetual duration. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by the Members, as prescribed by the Operating Agreement.

LDM Business Services, Inc.

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF ENFIELD’S TREE, LLC

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Enfield’s Tree, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 8610 Lakeview Drive, #37, Omaha, Nebraska 68127. The name and address of the Registered Agent of the Company is Sally Wunderlich, 924 North 185 th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68023. First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

FITZGERALD, SCHORR, BARMETTLER & BRENNAN, P.C., L.L.O.

200 Regency One 10050 Regency Circle Omaha, NE 68114-3794

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF LOU JEAN INVESTMENTS

Lou Jean Investments LLC has been organized as a limited liability company under the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office of the Company is 20504 Laurel Avenue, Elkhorn, NE 68022. The name, street and mailing address of the initial agent for service of process of the Company are Regi Powell, 20504 Laurel Avenue, Elkhorn, NE 68022. Dated this 14th day of November, 2025.

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF KATIE LYN HAIR STUDIO, LLC

Notice is hereby given that Katie Lyn Hair Studio, LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Certificate of Organization was filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State on June 20, 2025 at 8:42 AM (Filing Document #*001249654). The registered agent for service of process in Nebraska is: Corporate Service Center, Inc. 12020 Shamrock Plz., Ste 200 Omaha, NE 68154-3537

The company shall be managed by Katie Dumbaugh, Manager, whose mailing address is: 10875 W Dodge Rd Suite #52 Omaha, NE 68154

The initial designated office of the company is located at: 10875 W Dodge Rd Suite #52 Omaha, NE 68154

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

ERICKSON | SEDERSTROM, P.C. 10330 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, NE 68114

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF MOORE’S 11999 CRYER AVENUE, LLC

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Moore’s 11999 Cryer Avenue, LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been duly organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska with its designated office located at 11999 Cryer Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska 68144 and designating its registered agent as Erickson & Sederstrom, P.C., a Limited Liability Organization with its registered office at 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

ERICKSON | SEDERSTROM, P.C., L.L.O.

10330 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, NE 68114 NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF LINN LAND MANAGEMENT, LLC

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Linn Land Management, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company, has been duly organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with its designated office located at 444 Riverfront Plaza, Suite 1002, Omaha, Nebraska 68102 and designating its registered agent as Erickson & Sederstrom, P.C., a Limited Liability Organization, with its registered office at 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF ERICKA JARVIS COACHING & CONSULTING, LLC

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Ericka Jarvis Coaching & Consulting, LLC has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The general nature of the business is to engage in any lawful business for which a limited liability company may be organized under the laws of Nebraska. The designated office of the limited liability company is 3606 N 156th Street, Suite 101-254, Omaha, NE 68116 The registered agent and office of the limited liability company is Ericka Jarvis, 3606 N 156th Street, Suite 101254, Omaha, NE 68116. The limited liability company commenced business on September 1, 2025.

First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF EHJB, LLC

EHJB, LLC, a limited liability company, with its registered office located at 12011 Pintail Drive, Papillion, NE 68046 has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The registered agent is Elisabeth Barclay, 12011 Pintail Drive, Papillion, NE 68046. The Company shall engage in any lawful business for which a limited liability company may be formed under the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act. The perpetual existence commenced on November 11th , 2025, The affairs of the Company are to be conducted by its Members and/or Managers pursuant to an Operating Agreement duly adopted by the Company.

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF PORTAL ROAD RMAW, LLC

Portal Road RMAW, LLC, a limited liability company, with its registered office located at 4031 S. 176th Cir. Omaha, NE 68130 has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The registered agent is Henri Jung, 4031 S 176th Cir, Omaha, NE 68130. The Company shall engage in any lawful business for which a limited liability company may be formed under the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act. The perpetual existence commenced on November 5th , 2025, The affairs of the Company are to be conducted by its Members and/or Managers pursuant to an Operating Agreement duly adopted by the Company.

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION OF RMH PROPERTIES LLC

1. The name of the limited liability company is RMH PROPERTIES LLC.

2. The period of duration for RMH PROPERTIES LLC is perpetual.

3. RMH PROPERTIES LLC is organized for the purpose of conducting any and all business as permitted by the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act.

4. The address of the initial designated office for RMH PROPERTIES LLC in Nebraska is 14822 Josephine St, Omaha NE 68138.

5. The name and address of the registered agent for RMH PROPERTIES LLC in Nebraska is Rachel Hovey, 14822 Josephine St, Omaha NE 68138.

6. Additional provisions, not inconsistent with the law, for the regulation of the internal affairs of the limited liability company shall be provided for in the Operating Agreement.

7. Rachel Hovey, organizer(s) of RMH PROPERTIES LLC has signed the Foregoing Certificate of Organization effective this October 27, 2025. First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

CARLSON & BLAKEMAN, LLP

MATTHEW WURSTNER, Attorney

11429 Davenport Street Omaha, NE 68154

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF MUSICIAN’S DOJO, LLC

Notice is hereby given that MUSICIAN’S DOJO, LLC is organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The initial designated office is 14108 Camden Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska 68164. The Company’s initial registered agent in the State of Nebraska is: MATTHEW WURSTNER, whose address is 11429 Davenport Street, Omaha, NE 68154. The purpose of the Company is to engage in any lawful business and activity, as may be mutually agreed upon by the Members from time to time, and which are not prohibited by the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The Company commenced with filing its Certificate of Organization on October 27, 2025, and shall have a perpetual period of duration. The Company is a Manager Managed Limited Liability Company.

MATTHEW WURSTNER, Organizer

First publication November 7, 2025, final November 21, 2025

CARLSON & BLAKEMAN, LLP

MEGAN CAVANAUGH, Attorney 11429 Davenport Street Omaha, NE 68154

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF ANICCA, LLC

Notice is hereby given that ANICCA, LLC is organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The initial designated office is 15822 Decatur Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68116. The Company’s initial registered agent in the State of Nebraska is: MEGAN CAVANAUGH, whose address is 11429 Davenport Street, Omaha, NE 68154. The purpose of the Company is to engage in any lawful business and activity, as may be mutually agreed upon by the Members from time to time, and which are not prohibited by the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The Company commenced with filing its Certificate of Organization on November 3, 2025, and shall have a perpetual period of duration. The Company is a Member Managed Limited Liability Company.

MEGAN CAVANAUGH, Organizer

First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF DROPINSKI FAMILY, LLC

Notice is hereby given of the organization of DROPINSKI FAMILY CABIN, LLC with its registered agent being Russell J. Kreikemeier, and its registered office address at 7253 Grover Street, Omaha, NE 68124. The designated office of the company is 1080 Fedde Lane, Ashland, Nebraska 68003. The general nature of its business is to own, manage, lease and deal with all types of real property, including but not specifically limited to residential real property, and to conduct any and all related matters, and as authorized under the Statutes of the State of Nebraska. The initial capital of the company has been contributed and evidence of membership in the company will be issued by the Management Board. The company commenced doing business on the 10th day of October, 2025 and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the limited liability company shall be vested in the elected Managers and conducted by a Management Board and such other officers as may be provided for in the Operating Agreement of the Company. First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION OF ACORNS TO OAKS FINANCIAL

WELL BEING SERVICES, LLC

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Certificate of Organization for a Limited Liability Company has been filed with Robert B. Evnen, Secretary of State of Nebraska, pursuant to Neb. Rev. Stat. §21-117.

NAME OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY:

Acorns to Oaks Financial Well Being Services LLC

INITIAL DESIGNATED OFFICE:

Street Address: 663 N 132nd Street, Omaha, NE 68154

Mailing Address: 10050 Grand Plaza, Omaha, NE 68134-2537

INITIAL AGENT FOR SERVICE OF PROCESS:

Monica Tripp

10050 Grand Plaza Omaha, NE 68134-2537

ORGANIZER:

Monica Tripp

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

NOTICE OF INCORPORATION PAX AMERICANA CONCORDIUM, INC. A NEBRASKA NONPROFIT CORPORATION

Notice is hereby given that Pax Americana Concordium, Inc. has been incorporated under the Nebraska Nonprofit Corporation Act.

The name of the Corporation is Pax Americana Concordium, Inc. and the Corporation is a public benefit corporation.

The registered office of the Corporation is located at 13304 West Center Rd., Ste. 109, Omaha, NE 68144 , and the name of its registered agent at that address is Thomas E. Horgan .

The Corporation shall have voting and/or non-voting members, and the rights and obligations of such members, if any, shall be as set forth in the Corporation’s bylaws.

The Corporation is organized exclusively for charitable, educational, religious, or scientific purposes, within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

No part of the net earnings of the Corporation shall inure to the benefit of, or be distributable to, its members, directors, officers, or other private persons, except as permitted by law for carrying out its charitable purposes.

The corporation shall have no capital stock and shall not be operated for profit.

Dated this11 day of November 2025.

Caleb Jashinske, Incorporator 911 Murray Road Murray, Nebraska 68409.

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BUSER, LLP

MATTHEW T. PAYNE

10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300

Omaha, NE 68114

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF GTS TITLE, LLC

Notice is hereby given of the organization of GTS Title, LLC:

1. The name of the limited liability company is GTS Title, LLC

2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 4949 Underwood Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska 68132, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is Matthew T. Payne, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114 .

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BUSER, LLP

MATTHEW T. PAYNE

10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300

Omaha, NE 68114

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF BHGRE DPA, LLC

Notice is hereby given of the organization of BHGRE DPA, LLC:

1. The name of the limited liability company is BHGRE DPA, LLC

2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 4949 Underwood Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska 68132, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is Matthew T. Payne, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BUSER LLP

EMILY F. MORDHORST, Attorney

10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, NE 68114-3728

LEGAL notices

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF THE BLACK CAT BEAUTY CLUB, LLC

Notice is hereby given of the organization of THE BLACK CAT BEAUTY CLUB, LLC:

1. The name of the limited liability company is THE BLACK CAT BEAUTY CLUB, LLC; and

2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 3830 N. 108th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68164, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is Emily F. Mordhorst, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication November 7, 2025, final November 21, 2025

ERICKSON | SEDERSTROM, P.C.

10330 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, NE 68114

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF THE FERTILE HIVE, LLC

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that The Fertile Hive, LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been duly organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska with its designated office located at 10506 Burt Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68114 and designating its registered agent as Erickson & Sederstrom, P.C. a Limited Liability Organization with its registered office at 10330 Regency Parkway Drive, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF VICTORIA ELI GARZA, LLC

The name of the Company is Victoria Eli Garza, LLC. The Designated Office of the Company is 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. The Registered Agent and Office of the Company is Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O., 1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800, Omaha, Nebraska 68124. This limited liability company commenced business on November 4, 2025. First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF PERRIN PLACE PROPERTIES, LLC

Notice is hereby given that Perrin Place Properties, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The address of the Company’s designated office is 2216 N 120th Ave, Omaha, NE 68164, and the name of the registered agent at such address is Kenneth P. Fisher. The general nature of the business is any legal and lawful activity allowed pursuant to the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act and the laws of the State of Nebraska and elsewhere. The Company commenced business on 11/3/2025 and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the Company are to be managed by its managers.

/s/Kenneth P Fisher, organizer First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION OF LYNN PAINTER BOOKS, LLC

NE Sec of State - Robert B. Evnen Filing Document #: 9001270671 Pages: 1 Corporation Name: LYNN PAINTER BOOKS LLC Filing Date and Time: 10/20/2025 09:50 AM

The undersigned, desiring to form a limited liability company (the “Company”) under the Nebraska Uniform Liability Company Act, states as follows: 2025.

1. Name. The name of the Company is Lynn Painter Books, LLC.

2. Initial Designated Office of the Company. The address of the initial designated office of the Company in Nebraska is 720 N 11th Circle, Springfield, Nebraska 68059.

3. Address and Agent for Service of Process. The address for service of process on the Company is 720 N 11th Circle, Springfield, Nebraska 68059, and the name of the initial registered agent at such address is Lynn Kirkle.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have signed this Certificate of Organization on October 15, Ray Kathryn J. Der Organizer First publication November 7, 2025, final November 21, 2025

PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BUSER, LLP

MATTHEW T. PAYNE

10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, NE 68114

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF TGLG DPA, LLC

Notice is hereby given of the organization of TGLG DPA, LLC:

1. The name of the limited liability company is TGLG DPA, LLC

2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 4949 Underwood Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska 68132, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is Matthew T. Payne, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

LAMSON DUGAN & MURRAY LLP

Craig W. Benson 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, NE 68114

NOTICE OF AMENDMENT TO ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION OF HELGET GAS PRODUCTS, INC.

Notice is hereby given that Helget Gas Products, Inc., a Nebraska corporation, has filed an Amendment to its Articles of Incorporation with the Nebraska Secretary of State on November 14, 2025. The Amendment changes the corporation’s aggregated number of shares to be issues to 1,000 shares of voting common stock and 99,000 shares of nonvoting common stock. The par value of each share being ten cents ($.10). The Corporation’s registered agent is LDM Business Services, Inc., at 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114. The full text of the amended Articles of Incorporation can be found on the Nebraska Secretary of State website.

LDM Business Services, Inc., Organizer

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

LAMSON DUGAN & MURRAY LLP

Craig W. Benson Attorney 10306 Regency Parkway Drive

Omaha, NE 68114

NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF PREISTER AG HOLDINGS, LLC

Notice is hereby given of the formation of a limited liability company under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the limited liability company is Preister Ag Holdings, LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 39918 N 430th Street, Genoa NE 68640. The name and address of the registered agent is LDM Business Services, 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114. The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business. The company commenced existence on November 13, 2025 and shall have perpetual duration. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by the Members, as prescribed by the Operating Agreement. LDM Business Services, Inc.

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

LAMSON DUGAN & MURRAY LLP

Erin K. Artz, Attorney 10306 Regency Parkway Drive

Omaha, NE 68114

NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF KACEY CAN CLEAN IT, LLC

Notice is hereby given of the formation of a limited liability company under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the limited liability company is Kacey Can Clean It, LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 5809 N 230th street Elkhorn, NE 68022. The name and address of the registered agent is LDM Business Services, Inc., 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114. The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business. The company commenced existence on November 3, 2025 and shall have perpetual duration. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by the Members, as prescribed by the Operating Agreement. LDM Business Services, Inc., Organizer 4913-6470-5398, v. 1

First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF TRANQUILITY PROPERTY, LLC

Notice is hereby given that Tranquility Rental Property, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The address of the Company’s designated office is 4604 Glenmorrie Drive, Omaha, NE 68157, and the name of the registered agent at such address is Luis A. Diaz Gomez. The general nature of the business is any legal and lawful activity allowed pursuant to the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act and the laws of the State of Nebraska and elsewhere. The Company commenced business on 10/29/2025 and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the Company are to be managed by its managers.

/s/Luis A. Diaz Gomez, organizer

First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

MCGRATH NORTH MULLIN & KRATZ, PC LLO

1601 Dodge Street, Suite 3700

Omaha, NE 68102

NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION OF PERIGEE SOLUTIONS INTERNATIONAL, LLC

Notice is given that Perigee Solutions International, LLC filed a Statement of Dissolution with the Nebraska Secretary of State and is in the process of voluntary dissolution and winding up of activities. Terms and conditions of the dissolution shall be established by the LLC’s Members in conformity with the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. Claims against the LLC may be presented in writing to Margaret A. Rossiter, 1601 Dodge Street, Suite 3700, Omaha, NE 68102, and specify the nature of the claim, the amount of the claim and the name and address of the claimant. A claim against the LLC is barred unless an action to enforce the claim is commenced within five (5) years after the publication date of the third required notice. First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

LAMSON DUGAN & MURRAY LLP

Phillip T. Sanberg, Attorney 10306 Regency Parkway Drive

Omaha, NE 68114

NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF CTM WELDING, LLC

Notice is hereby given of the formation of a limited liability company under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the limited liability company is CTM WELDING, LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 5607 S 159th Street, Omaha, NE 68135. The name and address of the registered agent is LDM Business Services, Inc., 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114. The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business. The company commenced existence on November 6, 2025, and shall have perpetual duration. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by the Members, as prescribed by the Operating Agreement. LDM Business Services, Inc.

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

LAMSON DUGAN & MURRAY LLP

Phillip T. Sanberg, Attorney 10306 Regency Parkway Drive

Omaha, NE 68114

NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF XTRA SPARKLE, LLC

Notice is hereby given of the formation of a limited liability company under

the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the limited liability company is XTRA SPARKLE, LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 5607 S 159th Street, Omaha, NE 68135. The name and address of the registered agent is LDM Business Services, Inc., 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114. The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business. The company commenced existence on November 3, 2025, and shall have perpetual duration. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by the Members, as prescribed by the Operating Agreement.

LDM Business Services, Inc.

First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF LEARN ENGLISH OMAHA

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Learn English Omaha, a Nebraska Non-Profit Public Benefit Corporation, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, commencing existence on October 18, 2025, with its initial designated office at 107 Stanford Circle, Omaha, NE 68108 . The initial agent for service of process of the Company is Naomi Becker, 107 Stanford Circle, Omaha, NE 68108. The incorporator is Naomi Becker, 107 Stanford Circle, Omaha, NE 68108. This corporation does not have members.

First publication November 7, 2025, final November 21, 2025

CROKER HUCK LAW FIRM

MARTIN P. PELSTER, Attorney 2120 S. 72nd Street, Suite 1200 Omaha, NE 68124

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF WELCHERT FARMS, LLC

The name of the limited liability company is Welchert Farms, LLC . The address of the initial designated office is 22818 Pawnee Road, Valley, NE 68064. The name and address of the initial agent for service of process is Croker, Huck, Kasher, DeWitt, Anderson & Gonderinger, LLC, 2120 South 72nd Street, Suite 1200, Omaha, NE 68124.

First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF JDA, LLC

Notice is hereby given of the organization of JDA, LLC with its registered agent being Russell J. Kreikemeier, and its registered office address at 7253 Grover Street, Omaha, NE 68124. The designated office of the company is 22101 Cedar Circle, Elkhorn, Nebraska 68022-3105. The general nature of its business is to engage in and do any lawful act and business for which a limited liability company may be organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska including, but not specifically limited to developing and assisting in the preparation of business plans and consulting services for those businesses in the area of powder coating paint manufacturing and for the implementation of those plans in order to achieve the business results to new levels of activity for the sales performance teams and to conduct all related activities thereto as authorized under the Statutes of the State of Nebraska. The initial capital of the company has been contributed and evidence of membership in the company will be issued by the Management Board. The company commenced doing business on the 10th day of November, 2025 and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the limited liability company shall be vested in the elected Managers and conducted by a Management Board and such other officers as may be provided for in the Operating Agreement of the Company.

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

PANSING HOGAN ERNST & BUSER LLP

BENJAMIN J. PICK, Attorney 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300 Omaha, NE 68114-3728

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF 6990 DODGE STREET SPE, LLC

Notice is hereby given of the organization of 6990 DODGE STREET SPE, LLC: 1. The name of the limited liability company is 6990 DODGE STREET SPE, LLC; and

2. The street and mailing address of the initial designated office is 139 S. 144th Street, #540491, Omaha, Nebraska 68154, and the name and street address of the initial agent for service of process is Benjamin J. Pick, 10250 Regency Circle, Suite 300, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

LAMSON DUGAN & MURRAY LLP

Phillip T. Sanberg, Attorney 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, NE 68114

NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF RKKJ LAND, LLC

Notice is hereby given of the formation of a limited liability company under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the limited liability company is RKKJ LAND, LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114. The name and address of the registered agent is LDM Business Services, Inc., 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114. The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business. The company commenced existence on November 10, 2025, and shall have perpetual duration. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by the Members, as prescribed by the Operating Agreement. LDM Business Services, Inc.

First publication November 21, 2025, final December 5, 2025

NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION OF CADDIENOW CA LLC

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that CaddieNow CA LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company, filed its Statement of Dissolution with the Nebraska Secretary of State on June 25, 2024, and the company is in the process of a voluntary dissolution. The terms and conditions of such dissolution are, in general, that all debts and obligations of the company are to be fully paid and satisfied or adequate provision is to be made therefore, and that the balance of any remaining assets are to be distributed to its member. The manager will wind up and liquidate the company’s business and affairs. If you have a claim against CaddieNow CA LLC, please provide the following information with respect to your claim: (1) your name or the name of your entity; (2) the nature of your claim; (3) the amount of your claim; and (4) the date your claim arose. All claims shall be mailed to 601 South 59th Street, Lincoln, Nebraska 68516. A claim against CaddieNow CA LLC is barred unless an action to enforce the claim is commenced within five (5) years after the publication date of the third required notice. First publication November 7, 2025, final November 21, 2025

BURNETT LEGAL GROUP, LLP

Charles L. Grimes, Attorney 17525 Arbor Street Omaha, NE 68130

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF O&B PROPERTIES, LLC

Notice is hereby given that O&B PROPERTIES, LLC is organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The initial Designated Office is 17525 Arbor Street, Omaha, NE 68130. The Company’s initial Registered Agent in the State of Nebraska is: Charles L. Grimes, whose address is 17525 Arbor Street, Omaha, NE 68130. The purpose of the Company is to engage in any lawful business and activity, as may be mutually agreed upon by the Members from time to time, and which are not prohibited by the Nebraska Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. The Company commenced with filing its Certificate of Organization on October 29, 2025, and shall have a perpetual period of duration. The Company is a Member Managed Limited Liability Company.

Charles L. Grimes, Organizer First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF PICK INVESTMENT 2, LLC

Notice is hereby given that Pick Investment 2, LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 5011 Happy Hollow Lane, Lincoln, Nebraska 68516 and with its initial agent for service of process as Robert J. Pick, 5011 Happy Hollow Lane, Lincoln, Nebraska 68516. First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF SWEET FREEDOM VENTURES, LLC

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Sweet Freedom Ventures, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 5155 Waterford Ave Cir, Papillion, NE 68133. The Registered Agent of the Company is DDLG Business Services, Inc., 9500 West Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha, Nebraska 68114.

Dvorak Law Group, LLC 9500 W. Dodge Road, Suite 100 Omaha, NE 68114

First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF PICK INVESTMENT 3, LLC

Notice is hereby given that Pick Investment 3, LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with its initial designated office at 5011 Happy Hollow Lane, Lincoln, Nebraska 68516 and with its initial agent for service of process as Robert J. Pick, 5011 Happy Hollow Lane, Lincoln, Nebraska 68516. First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

LAMSON DUGAN & MURRAY LLP

Craig W. Benson, Attorney 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, NE 68114

NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF STEFFEN RANCH & LIVESTOCK, LLC

Notice is hereby given of the formation of a limited liability company under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the limited liability company is STEFFEN RANCH & LIVESTOCK, LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 6010 46th Ave, Kearney, NE 68845-1606. The name and address of the registered agent is LDM Business Services, Inc., 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114. The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business. The company commenced existence on November 6, 2025 and shall have perpetual duration. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by the Members, as prescribed by the Operating Agreement.

LDM Business Services, Inc.

First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

BURNETT LEGAL GROUP, LLP

Charles L. Grimes, Attorney 17525 Arbor Street Omaha, NE 68130

NOTICE OF AMENDED CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION

Notice is hereby given that PRAIREVIEW SOLUTIONS, LLC., organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska filed an Amended Certificate

of Organization with the Nebraska Secretary of State on October 22, 2025. The terms of the Amended Certificate of Organization provide the name of the Limited Liability Company will be changed to “PRAIRIEVIEW SOLUTIONS, LLC.” The name “PRAIREVIEW SOLUTIONS, LLC” will be substituted for “PRAIRIEVIEW SOLUTIONS, LLC” each place it appears in the Amended Certificate of Organization. In all other respects the Certificate of Organization and Change of Registered Agent of the Company remains unchanged.

First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

SEAN D. MOYLAN, Attorney

1010 South 120th Street, Suite 320 Omaha, NE 68154

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF J SQUARED INVESTMENTS, LLC

The name of the Company is J Squared Investments, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company engaging in real estate rentals. The initial registered agent is Sean Moylan located at 1010 S. 120th Street, Suite #320, Omaha, Nebraska 68154. The initial designated office of the Company stated in the Certificate of Organization was 17311 Monroe Circle, Omaha, Nebraska 68135. This limited liability company commenced business on November 3, 2025.

First publication November 7, 2025, final November 21, 2025

SEAN D. MOYLAN, Attorney

1010 South 120th Street, Suite 320 Omaha, NE 68154

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF O’NEILL PARKING, LLC

The name of the Company is O’Neill Parking, LLC, a Nebraska limited liability company engaging in valet parking services. The initial registered agent is Sean Moylan located at 1010 S. 120 th Street, Suite #320, Omaha, Nebraska 68154. The initial designated office of the Company stated in the Certificate of Organization was 8220 Webster Plaza Apt. 8, Omaha, Nebraska 68114. This limited liability company commenced business on November 7, 2025.

First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF lPHO #1 BLACKSTONE, LLC

Notice is hereby given that Ipho #1 Blackstone, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The address of the Company’s designated office is 1910 S 44 th Street, Suite 101, Omaha, NE 68105, and the name of the registered agent at such address is Tran & Associates Law, LLC. The general nature of the business is any legal and lawful activity allowed pursuant to the Nebraska Limited Liability Company Act and the laws of the State of Nebraska and elsewhere. The Company commenced business on 5/1/2025 and shall have perpetual existence. The affairs of the Company are to be managed by its managers.

/s/Viet Pham, organizer

First publication November 7, 2025, final November 21, 2025

MCGRATH NORTH MULLIN & KRATZ, PC LLO

1601 Dodge Street, Suite 3700 Omaha, NE 68102

NOTICE OF AMENDED CERTIFICATE OF ORGANIZATION OF NSP JV WALLINGFORD, LLC

Notice is given that on October 27, 2025, NSP JV Wallingford, LLC amended its Certificate of Organization to change its name from NSP JV Wallingford, LLC to NSP JV Patriot 95, LLC. First publication November 7, 2025, final November 21, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF DEEP MINT, LLC

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that DEEP MINT, LLC (the “Company”) has been organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The Designated Office Address of the Company is 2510 Pinehurst Plaza, Papillion, Nebraska 68133. The name and address of the Registered Agent of the Company is Michael C. Schilken, 9500 W. Dodge Road, Suite 100, Omaha, NE 68114. First publication November 7, 2025, final November 21, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF KAG, L.L.C.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that KAG, L.L.C., is organized under the laws of the State of Nebraska, with a designated and registered office at 1207 Murray Point, Plattsmouth, Nebraska 68048, registered agent at such office being Gregory S. Koll, and organizational members at such office being Gregory S. Koll and Ausra Koll. The Limited Liability Company is organized to transact any and all business, and perform services of every kind and nature whatsoever, which are not inconsistent with law. The Limited Liability Company commenced doing business on October 1, 2025, and filed Certificate of Organization with the Nebraska Secretary of State on October 29, 2025, and shall have perpetual existence.

GREGORY S. KOLL, Organizational Member

AUSRA KOLL, Organizational Member

1207 Murray Point, Plattsmouth, NE 68048

First publication November 7, 2025, final November 21, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF HEALING TOGETHER COUNSELING AND CONSULTING, LLC

Notice is hereby given that Healing Together Counseling and Consulting, LLC, a Nebraska Limited Liability Company, has been organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska, with its initial

First publication November 7, 2025, final November 21, 2025

CROKER HUCK LAW FIRM

STEVEN G. RANUM, Attorney 2120 S. 72nd Street, Suite 1200 Omaha, NE 68124

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF AAMJ COUNSELING, LLC

The name of the limited liability company is AAMJ Counseling, LLC . The address of the initial designated office is 13304 West Center Road #126, Omaha, NE 68144. The name and address of the initial agent for service of process is Croker, Huck, Kasher, DeWitt, Anderson & Gonderinger, LLC, 2120 South 72nd Street, Suite 1200, Omaha, NE 68124.

First publication November 7, 2025, final November 21, 2025

NOTICE OF INCORPORATION

On June 20, 2025, Articles of Incorporation were filed with the State of Nebraska on behalf of ACADEMIA LATINOS UNIDOS INC. The purpose of the corporation is education and the transaction of any and all lawful business under the laws of the State of Nebraska. The corporation has 10,000 authorized shares with a par value of $1.00 per share. The Incorporator is Wendy Blotcky. The street address of the registered initial agent is: 6121 S 211th St, Elkhorn, NE 68022, and the initial agent is: Wendy Blotcky.

First publication November 14, 2025, final November 28, 2025

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF BETTY’S MAGIC CLEAN & SHINE, LLC

Notice is hereby given that Betty’s Magic Clean & Shine, LLC has been organized as a limited liability company under Nebraska laws, with its designated office at 4106 S 27th Street, Omaha, NE 68107. It is organized to transact any lawful business for which a Limited Liability Company maybe organized under Nebraska laws. Its affairs are to be conducted by the manager Bertha de Aquino Guerrero. Its registered agent is Bertha de Aquino Guerrero and his office is located at 4106 S 27th Street, Omaha, NE 68107.

First publication November 7, 2025, final November 21, 2025

LAMSON DUGAN & MURRAY LLP

Daniel J. Waters, Attorney 10306 Regency Parkway Drive Omaha, NE 68114

NOTICE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF UNBRIDLED, LLC

Notice is hereby given of the formation of a limited liability company under the laws of the State of Nebraska, and that the name of the limited liability company is Unbridled, LLC. The address of the initial designated office is 810 N. Spruce Street, Ogallala, NE 69153. The name and address of the registered agent is LDM Business Services, Inc., 10306 Regency Parkway Drive, Omaha, NE 68114. The general nature of the business to be transacted is all lawful business. The company commenced existence on October 23, 2025 and shall have perpetual duration. The affairs of the company shall be conducted by the Members, as prescribed by the Operating Agreement.

LDM Business Services, Inc., Organizer 4907-0073-8675, v. 1

First publication November 7, 2025, final November 21, 2025

We publish and file trade name applications, notices of organization and notices of incorporation for the State of Nebraska.

Each day, Open Door Mission serves 5,366 meals to men, women and families experiencing hunger.

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would“Wewantedsomethingthatwasfunandthatourcustomers reallyenjoy.Ourmanagersareverypassionateitandsois

ofTheCorkyCanvasisprovidingaplacetocomeandcreateart

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A-1

Able Locksmiths

Barn Girls Farms

BAT Logistics

Book Nook

Boxer Barbeque

Brownie Bar

Casios

Chocolat Abeille

Clothes Mentor Omaha

Computer Systems, Inc.

Contemporary Analysis

Creative Hair Design Salon and Spa Crestcom

Curly Salon

Dirty Birds

Dolomiti Pizzeria and Enoteca

Durham Staffing Solutions

Eagle Mortgage Inc

Energi Salon

Everbowl

Exist Green

Fashion Cleaners

First Row Fitness

For the Wild Birds

Gratton Warehouse Company

Home Style Laundry and Dry Cleaning

Huffman Engineering, Inc.

Husker Hounds

Hutch Contract

It’s All About Bees

Ital Vital Living

J & M Displays (fireworks)

Jaffery Insurance and Financial Services

Jaipur

Jay Moore Landscaping

Karma Koffee

KidGlov

Lingo Docs

Lotus House of Yoga

Makovicka Physical Therapy

Mangelsen’s

No Name Nutrition

Olive Branch

Omaha Dog Bar

Omaha Marine Center

Omaha Protein Popcorn Company

Parking Area Maintenance

Prairie in Bloom

Quality Fence

Reis’ Bakery

Rooted Table

SET The Bar

Sgt. Pfeffer’s Pizza

Synchronicity

Ted & Wally’s

The Amazing Pizza Machine

The Corky Canvas

Todata Analytics

True Pottery

VALO Wellness Spa

Vic’s Corn Popper

Vino Mas

Vintage Oasis Omaha