TM
STRICTLYBUSINESSOMAHA.COM
OMAHA • SEPTEMBER 2019
IN THIS ISSUE
• Pet Health • Entertaining Clients • Business Technology • Joining Organizations • Senior Living CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS • Pheasant Bar & Grill • Presto-X
RIVER CITY SIX
Building Positive Relationships
JOSH NICHOL-CADDY Nebraska Business Development Center
DARREN JOHNSON Exterior Options
DR. JOHN HALLGREN Mission Direct Primary Care
JASON ELMORE Paws & Remember
ED SCHAEFER Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch
MIKE WELLS Outlook Business Solutions
AGO
Strictly Business Magazine PO BOX 57397, Lincoln, NE 68505
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Omaha’s Ovation is Here N O W A C C E P T I N G R E S E R VAT I O N S Nebraska deserves an Ovation. Opening in mid-2020, Ovation by Avamere is an active lifestyle village where people will live, thrive, invent, volunteer and innovate. Ovation features exclusive wellness and fitness programs, concierge services, multiple gourmet restaurants, innovative technology and everything you need to enjoy life to its fullest. Ovation is your reward for a life well-lived. Reservation Showroom Pepperwood Village 573 North 155th Plaza, Suite 573 Omaha, Nebraska 68154
Independent | Assisted | Memory Care 402-999-7900 | ovationbyavamere.com heartwoodpreserve@ovationbyavamere.com
presents
BRAD SUGARS
LIVE $99 at the door
Brad Sugars is the founder and CEO of ActionCOACH, the world’s largest business coaching firm. Brad has a dynamic stage presence and enjoys motivating and educating other business owners. His straight forward Aussie style has branded him as a leader that will tell you what you need to hear, not necessarily what you want to hear. Millions have benefited from the ‘gut checks’ and ‘kick in the backside’ that Brad has provided from stage.
Get $40 off your ticket with code “strictlybusiness” at www.BradinOmaha.live Wednesday, September 18th | 8:30am - 12:30pm Embassy Suites La Vista Convention Center
PHEASANT BAR & GRILL CRAFT BEER
COCKTAILS
When our team visits a restaurant in town, we look for three main things: great food, great service, and a great atmosphere. After dining at Pheasant Bar & Grill for the first time, we were very pleased to find that they have mastered all of these areas! We walked into the Millard establishment to find ample seating options at both the bar and at booths and tables around the room. Our team was also impressed with how clean the restaurant is kept. Dive bars can sometimes get a bad rap for being “sloppy”, but Pheasant Bar & Grill was anything but! We instantly felt relaxed by the hometown sports bar vibe, and our server was quick to welcome us with a smile and drink orders. Since we were all so hungry (what’s new?) after the long workday, we decided to start off with appetizers before we ordered our entrees. Per our server’s recommendation, we ordered the breaded cauliflower—we now know why she said it was a fan favorite! Very flavorful. We also enjoyed the mozzarella sticks, fried pickles, and some good ol’ waffle fries. All of these came out hot, fresh, and with yummy dips. In between ordering, enjoying our apps and drinks, and waiting for our entrees to come out, we hung out around the pool tables while a few of us played. All the activities that Pheasant Bar & Grill has really makes it a fun, interactive environment. They have an AMI digital jukebox for queuing up jams, pool and darts for a little friendly competition, and over 10 large, flat-screen TVs for optimal sports viewing. Plus, Pheasant Bar & Grill is known for being a hot spot for KENO and karaoke!
GREAT FOOD
CLIENT SPOTLIGHT
Get down to the pub for a drink, some grub, and a good time!
KARAOKE
good. Our group was very impressed! The pita bread was nicely toasted and the meat was fresh and juicy. With the just the right ratio of tzatziki sauce, we couldn’t complain! In fact, all we could do was eat more. Along with the Battered Cod Fish basket, garlic butter parmesan and medium spicy wings, a classic burger, and a chicken sandwich, our dining experience at Pheasant Bar & Grill was a grand slam! Something we noted about Pheasant Bar & Grill is all the specials and fun events they offer every day of the week. From Monday’s all-day happy hour and discounts on cheese burgers and sandwiches, to taco Tuesdays with $3 margaritas, chicken quesadillas, potato Ole’s, and chicken buffalo wraps—oh, and don’t forget the “Thank God It’s Wednesday” specials featuring $6 12” pizzas and Philly steaks. They also just announced Thursdays as Ladies Night, meaning drinks are all $4 for women! Every week day, Pheasant Bar & Grill has happy hour from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and patrons can expect the house to be bumping on Wednesday, Fridays, and Saturdays for karaoke nights. Lunch starts at 11 a.m., Monday through Sunday. We encourage all our readers to check out Pheasant Bar & Grill for some yummy grub and a good time!
Our group ordered a variety of items from the wide selection of pizzas, sandwiches, burgers, baskets, wings, salads, and soups on the menu. The lead-off homerun of the evening was the Buffalo Chicken Pizza—first to arrive, last to leave our hearts. Every single one of us got wide-eyed when we tried a slice, even the ones of us who usually don’t opt for pizza when dining out. It wasn’t too spicy but still had a bold taste; it was the perfect balance of meaty/cheesy goodness, and the sauce was hand-crafted by the chef based on a recipe he got from Italy. He told us he has plans to add meatballs to the menu that feature this delicious sauce as a key ingredient. The pinch hitter in the lineup was the Beef Gyro. We were skeptical...how good could a gyro really be at an American sports bar and grill? Well, it was pretty dang
Chad Biltoft, head chef; Lloyd Kaburu, owner; Mike Whisenant, manager.
13909 S. Plaza | Omaha, NE | (402) 895-3311 | pheasantbarandgrill.com #PrintProudDigitalSmart
SEPTEMBER 2019 Strictly Business
1
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
PAIGE ZUTAVERN - Omaha/Lincoln - President (402) 730-0096 | Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com
Creating a Deeper Emotional Connection with Print Media “If you’re sending out an email, your audience may see the Today, we live in a world where every 60 headline and swipe to delete it. But as soon as something arrives seconds there are one million Facebook in the mail or you hold it in your hands, the physical quality of the log-ins, 3.8 million online searches, and piece conveys a message and together with the design, it renders 188 million emails sent. The rhythm of our it more likely to be encoded into memory. Direct mail is far more time period is the fast paced tapping and persuasive than digital media alone, with 20% more motivation clacking on smart phones around the world. response.” Lucaci stated. Attention spans seem to be nonexistent as people make snap decisions about their Do you want your ad to be a part of the 188 million emails sent opinions now more than ever. So, how in out daily? Or one of the thousands of Facebook advertisements the world are you going to get your business noticed and in a surrounded by fake news that people just want to scroll pass as positive way? You might only have one chance to make a lasting quickly as possible? Or would you rather be among the 100–200 connection through your marketing efforts, which is why physical ads in Strictly Business, placed among a variety of credible news media is the best option to cement the name of pieces and relevant editorial contact? your brand into a person’s mind in this era of short-termism. Do you want your ad to be In order to stand out, you need to show your consumers that you are real, reachable, and a part of the 188 million According to Diana Lucaci, founder and CEO of the neuroscience research firm True Impact, emails sent out daily? Or one active in the local community. Through press it takes approximately 0.3 seconds to form an of the thousands of Facebook releases, feature stories, and spotlights, we share the accomplishments of local businesses and emotional connection through a first impression. advertisements that people organizations with our local readership. This allows Here at Strictly Business, we offer our advertisers just want to scroll pass as them to build an emotional connection with you and various forms of free value-added editorial so your business’ overall brand, mission, and growth. that they have a greater chance of making a quickly as possible? strong first impression. The content we create Every brand should care about creating an and publish for our clients takes their message emotional connection with consumers, and in that beyond the ad. context, print is a crucial part of the marketing mix. “First impression is key for determining what will enter awareness The strength of Strictly Business is that it is reliable. We don’t try and evaluation judgment. Within a fraction of a second, the brain to analyze and spy on our readers to gauge their interests or decides whether or not to act,” Lucaci says. “If you’re trying to force their view on an advertisement for a certain amount of time create a message that’s going to be loved in that first second, like most digital marketing strategies. We simply showcase our you need to understand how the brain works: how to elicit that clients by telling their story, and that’s why we are such a trusted emotion from the get go. The advantage of physical media, and news source and effective advertising tool. particularly print media, is that it helps increase memorability for a brand.” When consumers see you and your team’s faces on the front of the cover, they immediately make a connection that brings humanity back into your advertising. You can’t get that from an email, and Lucaci agrees with us.
Let Strictly Business help you lock in your status as THE EXPERT in your industry, utilizing print, the internet, and social media. Find out how by contacting Paige at (402) 466-3330.
CONTENTS NEWS
4 Business 23 Personnel
28 Nonprofit 35 Health
SPOTLIGHTS
1 16 22 36
Pheasant Bar & Grill River City Six Foster Care Column Presto-X
FEATURE STORIES
37 38 40 42 45 2
Pet Health Entertaining Clients Business Technology Joining Organizations Senior Living Strictly Business SEPTEMBER 2019
Hannah
Katherine
Sarah
PRODUCTION TEAM: Editor Hannah Hundley - Editor@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Art Director Katherine Crawford - Design@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com SALES TEAM: President/Sales Paige Zutavern - Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Executive Assistant Sarah Young - Office@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com Publisher/Founder/Accounting Shayne Zutavern - SZutavern@yahoo.com STRICTLY BUSINESS is not responsible for unsolicited material. All rights to submission, including letters, will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to our unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially or creatively, unless otherwise negotiated with the author. Nothing may be printed in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher. The publication of any advertisement in STRICTLY BUSINESS is not an endorsement of the advertiser or of the products or services advertised. Printed in the U.S.A. Copyright ©2019 by PZAK, Inc. Third Class Postage Paid at Lincoln, NE 68505
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ABOUT THE COVER Cornhusker Bank is in the process of planning a new location in Omaha in the building currently under construction at 111th and Blondo, with expected completion in February 2020. The bank is working with building owner Jim Prchal and partner Emily Petersen of Prchal Petersen Group, LLC on the project. Prchal Petersen Group, a full-service tax and consulting firm, Building Positive provides outstanding service to business owners Relationships and professionals guided by underlying values of professionalism, responsiveness, and quality. The bank’s loan production office at 13340 California St. will remain in use until the location at 111th and Blondo is opened, pending regulatory approval. As Cornhusker Bank continues to work with members of the community like the Prchal Petersen Group in the greater Omaha area, they are dedicated to providing meaningful solutions and high value service. Cornhusker Bank’s associates will continue to focus on building strong relationships in which they can help individuals and businesses build strong financial roadmaps for their future. For the past 10 years, Cornhusker Bank has been building relationships in the Omaha market and, today, a substantial percentage of the bank’s business is in the Omaha market. Cornhusker Bank has observed the Omaha and Lincoln area merging into a metroplex and embraces the idea the two markets are quickly being viewed as one metro market. The bank’s history began in Davey, NE in 1903 and moved to Lincoln in 1960. Branches were added throughout Lincoln and a new headquarters was built and occupied in 2016. In April of 2018, Cornhusker Bank opened a loan production office in Omaha and is now working on the Blondo location pictured on the cover. As with each Cornhusker Bank branch, the Blondo location will have a unique atmosphere and be customized to the needs of its customers. The culture behind the branch will be consistent with the friendliness and excellent service Cornhusker Bank has been known for in its century long tradition. Values which will be upheld in this eighth location will include “Deliver the Wow Experience”, “Care Deeply”, “Do Life Together”, “Building Positive Relationships”, and “Own it.” At Cornhusker Bank, “We exist to serve by providing solutions for lifelong success.” Cornhusker Bank is here to form a lifelong relationship with you and display their commitment to your success. Cornhusker Bank is proud to be part of the community. Pictured on the cover is John F. Dittman, Chairman of Cornhusker Bank; Barry Lockard, Cornhusker Bank President/CEO; David Shiffermiller, EVP/Lending, Cornhusker Bank; Jim Prchal, Partner Prchal Petersen Group, LLC; Emily Petersen, Partner Prchal Petersen Group, LLC; and Allen Chaffee, Cornhusker Bank Omaha Market President. TM
OMAHA • SEPTEMBER 2019
STRICTLYBUSINESSOMAHA.COM
RIVER CITY SIX
In ThIs Issue
• Pet Health • Entertaining Clients • Business Technology • Joining Organizations • Senior Living Client SpotlightS • Pheasant Bar & Grill • Presto-X
JOSH NICHOL-CADDY Nebraska Business Development Center
JASON ELMORE Paws & Remember
DARREN JOHNSON Exterior Options
DR. JOHN HALLGREN Mission Direct Primary Care
ED SCHAEFER Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch
MIKE WELLS Outlook Business Solutions
AGO
Strictly Business Magazine 68505 PO BOX 57397, Lincoln, NE
Learn more about Cornhusker Bank at www.CornhuskerBank.com.
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John F. Dittman, Barry Lockard, Emily Petersen, Jim Prchal, David Shiffermiller, and Allen Chaffee at 111th and Blondo building construction site.
David Shiffermiller, Barry Lockard, Allen Chaffee, Jim Prchal, Emily Petersen, and John F. Dittman inside the current Prchal Petersen Group offices.
24/7 @SBMAGOMAHA
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Building Positive Relationships
Strictly Business Magazine (402) 466-3330 Office@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com
www.StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com SEPTEMBER 2019 Strictly Business
3
BUSINESS NEWS Indemar North America to Showcase Products at ICUEE – The Demo Expo
Immanuel Named One of Nebraska’s Safest Companies by National Safety Council
For the first time, Indemar North America of Nebraska will be exhibiting at the International Construction & Utility Equipment Exposition (ICUEE) to showcase its company brand and products to the construction/utilities marketplace. ICUEE 2019 will be held October 1–3 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, KY. Visit Indemar North America at booth #5333. Their team, led by VP of global sales Mr. Giovanni (Gio) Gritta Tassorello, strongly believes this show is an important opportunity for them to meet the offhighway market. ICUEE is also known as The Demo Expo for its equipment test drives and interactive product demonstrations. The biennial ICUEE, owned and produced by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), is the leading event for over 18,000 utility professionals and construction contractors seeking comprehensive insights into the latest industry technologies, innovations, and trends. Indemar North America, which recently established headquarters in Nebraska in January 2019, is a manufacturer of controls for AG and on/off-highway vehicles. As a leading producer of mechanical control systems, joysticks, and push-pull cables, they’ve developed their knowledge in the controls market since 1993, working with major European OEM. Indemar North America can give customers tailor-made solutions and flexibility. Learn more online at www.indemar-northamerica. com or contact Gio at (402) 670-5939 / ggritta@indemar.com.
Immanuel, a leader in Nebraska for retirement living solutions for seniors, recently received a “Nebraska’s Safest Companies” award from the National Safety Council. The Safest Companies awards were established to celebrate those companies with commendable safety programs and better than national average safety records throughout the state. This past year, Immanuel’s safety program underwent big changes. A new automated recurring work order system helped provide real-time reports and simplified processes for safety supplies and procedures across the organization’s 14 retirement living communities and three PACE® (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly) centers. Additionally, several of the environmental service managers underwent 30 hours of OSHA training. Since 1887, Immanuel has been providing Christ-centered service to seniors, each other, and the community. As a not-for-profit, serving arm of the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America), Immanuel’s house of brands includes: Immanuel Communities, Immanuel Pathways, Immanuel Community Foundation, and The Immanuel Vision Foundation. Immanuel Communities also owns and operates 14 independent living, assisted living, and long-term care retirement communities on eight campuses. Immanuel Pathways operates three PACE® centers in Iowa and Nebraska. The Immanuel Community Foundation, a Resident Assistance Fund, provides financial assistance to independent living residents, and the Immanuel Vision Foundation extends financial support to nonprofit, charitable 501(c)(3) organizations that share purposes in alignment with Immanuel’s service centered mission. To learn more, visit www.immanuel. com or call (402) 507-4899.
A 4315 South 120th St. P 402.334.4900 W echosystemsmidwest.com
Lighten the mood. Your home is yours. It’s the place to make your own. You choose the paint color, the style, the décor, but why stop the customization there? At Echo Systems, it is our passion to create custom solutions for your home to best fit your lifestyle. From intuitive lighting and window shades that set the mood the moment you step in a room, to home theaters or audio technology that put control at your fingertips. Home innovation and customization starts at Echo Systems and continues on through your daily life. Schedule a tour of our Experience Center and find out just how much is possible.
Commercial & Residential Control Systems | Lighting Control | Private Theater | Audio & Visual Solutions | Electronic Shading
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Strictly Business SEPTEMBER 2019
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BUSINESS NEWS Scantron Technology Solutions Releases Video to Highlight 35 Years in Omaha S c a n t r o n Te c h n o l o g y Solutions has released a video highlighting its longevity and ongoing commitment to the Omaha community for more than 35 years. In this video, Scantron’s history as Omaha’s leading and longest-operating provider of B2B outsourced IT services and support illustrates the company’s commitment to attracting and retaining talent who want to work alongside one of the city’s top IT providers. With a recent MarketWatch report designating the Midwest as America’s No.1 New Tech Hot Spot, Scantron supports secure, highly performing technology environments—from maintenance and troubleshooting to long-term roadmapping and policy development—and in the total hardware lifecycle, from scoping and sourcing network devices and software to implementations, upgrades, and disposition of obsolete assets. Scantron Technology Solutions serves companies remotely and on site for support, maintenance, and installations. For more information on services or employment, visit www.scantron.com/ omaha. The video can be viewed online at www.scantron.com/ resources/35-years-in-omaha.
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Cox Internet Customers Enjoy Summer Speed Increase at No Additional Cost This summer, Cox Comm unication customers began enjoying faster download speeds at no additional cost. Most customers’ internet speeds are now up to 50% faster and are automatic for the popular Preferred and Premier tiers of service. Customers simply need to restart their modem to experience the increased speeds. “We have increased internet speeds every year for the last 14 years as part of our commitment to providing the best experience inside and outside the home. With speed increases, Cox customers can do everything faster and make their homes even smarter,” said Calli Hite, senior public affairs manager for Cox Communications. “It’s how we help people make the most of their days and stay connected to the things they care about most.” Cox customers with Premier service now have download speeds up to 200 mbps (increased from 150 mbps), and customers with Preferred, the most popular tier of service, have download speeds up 150 mbps (increased from 100 mbps). To maximize the in-home experience, Cox’s Panoramic Wi-Fi uses advanced technology designed for speed and performance to reach every device in every room of the home. This year, Cox also expanded its Panoramic Wi-Fi offering to include the smartest Wi-Fi experience, with reliable speed, coverage and control. Outside the home, Cox customers can access more than 650,000 Wi-Fi hotspots in cities across the nation at no additional cost. Cox is investing $10 billion over the next five years to continue leading the broadband market and enable future growth. The company currently offers gigabit speeds to more than 95% of customers within its footprint, and all households will have Gigablast available by end of the year. Cox Communications is committed to creating meaningful moments of human connection through broadband applications and services. To learn more, visit www.cox.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
ActionCOACH to Bring Founder Brad Sugars to Omaha September 18 ActionCOACH Omaha invites you to spend four hours with Brad Sugars, the world’s #1 business coach and founder of ActionCOACH, on September 18 at the Embassy Suites Conference Center in La Vista from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tickets are available at BradinOmaha.live. Brad, author of the best-selling book, Pulling Profits Out Of A Hat, has a dynamic stage presence and enjoys motivating and educating other business owners. His straight-forward Aussie style has branded him as a leader that will tell you what you need to hear, not necessarily what you want to hear. Millions have benefited from the ‘gut checks’ and ‘kick in the backside’ that Brad has provided from the stage. Brad is widely regarded as one of the best business coaches due to his career training business owners. He is a well known public speaker on business growth and investing, a bestselling author with 17 books to his credit, and a leading business educator. His reputation for turning around struggling companies and selling them for massive profits earned him the nickname “the turnaround kid” when he was in his early twenties in Australia. Recently turned 50, Brad’s successful ownership role in over 50 companies has made him an authority on business building. His primary business today, ActionCOACH, has grown into an international franchise with over 1,000 offices in 85+ countries. ActionCOACH has been the leader in business coaching for over 25 years. They train the world’s best business owners, managers, and employees in all industries in over 80 countries. Their courses are timetested and effective in building the value of your resources and increasing bottom line for your company. For more information or to register for local courses, go to www.actioncoach.com / www.jimbarger.actioncoach. com or contact (402) 676-8809. SEPTEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 5
BUSINESS NEWS Exterior Options Merges with Local Contractors to Maximize Strength of Services
Echo Systems Expands Company Footprint into Kansas City
For over 25 years, Exterior Options has been providing trusted service to the Omaha/Council Bluffs area. In March, Owner Darren Johnson merged with Tony Inzauro of Home Matters Construction LLC, David Nelan of Eireann Construction, and Subcontractor Anthony Pflug. The four have teamed up to operate together under Exterior Options, each bringing about 20 years of experience to the table. Darren, Tony, David, and Anthony all have different specialties and backgrounds in the construction industry. For example, David has his Class B general building contractor license and Tony brought some big clients over, such as HUD and Habitat for Humanity. Combining the different levels of expertise and connections that each contractor possessed is what has made the merger so strong. Ultimately, more can be done together than apart. It’s this mindset that has improved Exterior Options’ customer service and allowed the company to complete projects faster for their clients. Exterior Options provides roofing, siding, window, decking, and home remodeling services. In addition, their professional team can also install doors, gutters, fences, soffit/fascia, retaining walls, and carry out insurance restoration projects. The business is built on repeat customers and referrals. To learn more or get a free estimate, visit exterioroptionsomaha.com or contact the Exterior Options team directly at (402) 612-3516 / info@ exterioroptionsomaha.com.
Echo Systems, the 30th largest custom AV integrator in the nation, officially acquired Kansas City-based Integrated Electronics as of June 1, 2019. Echo Systems has roots in the Midwest that date back 60 years. Echo Systems has emerged as one of the premier integrators in the country and was recently offered a place in the highly regarded Guild Integrators Alliance. Integrated Electronics, located at 660 N. Lindenwood Dr. in Olathe, KS, has been serving the greater Kansas City area for 36 years and was also one of the area’s top integrators, with a well-respected technical staff and loyal customer base. With this acquisition, existing and potential new Kansas City clientele get to work with the same team they had come to know and trust at Integrated Electronics, but now the company is backed by greater resources, products, and services. Echo Systems is similarly committed to giving each of its clients the highest-class experience in the industry, and looks forward to serving the Midwest and the entire nation on further projects, both commercial and residential. Echo Systems is a proud member of the Greater Omaha Remodelers Association-NARI as well as the Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association-CEDIA, the Metro Omaha Builders Association-MOBA, an associate member of the American Institute of Architects-AIA, and American Society of Interior Designers-ASID. For more information, call (402) 334-4900 or visit www.echosystemsmidwest.com.
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Strictly Business SEPTEMBER 2019
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BUSINESS NEWS Statewide Coalition Unveils Blueprint Nebraska Report
Superior Van & Mobility Celebrate New State-of-the-Art Facility with Ribbon Cutting
Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts; University of Nebraska Interim President Susan Fritz (Blueprint Nebraska cochair); Chairman, President, and CEO of Union Pacific Corporation Lance Fritz; President and CEO of 21st Century H o l d i n g s O we n Pa l m ( B l u e p r i n t Nebraska co-chair); Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry President Bryan Slone; and members of the Blueprint Nebraska steering committee unveiled the Blueprint Nebraska report via a public livestream on July 30 from three locations across the state: Omaha, Lincoln, and Broken Bow.
Superior Van & Mobility, an Omaha mobility dealer that provides advanced driving controls, wheelchair lifts, and handicap vehicles for individuals with physical disabilities, held a two-day grand opening customer appreciation celebration May 17–18 at their new state-of-the art facility located at 11147 Mockingbird Dr. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held in conjunction with the Greater Omaha Chamber to kick off the festivities. Sam and Kathy Cook, owners of Superior Van & Mobility, cut the ceremonial ribbon while the dealership offered free food and drinks for attendees, as well as drawings for some great door prizes. Attendees were able to get up close and personal with Superior Van & Mobility’s inventory of wheelchair vans, lifts, and other types of mobility equipment. Visitors admired the array of inventory from BraunAbility, including brand new, certified preowned, and high-mileage preowned vans, as well as lifts and other specialized equipment. Superior Van & Mobility, home of the Free Lifetime Powertrain Warranty, provides wheelchair accessible vehicles, mobility seating options, hand controls, scooter and wheelchair lifts, and a variety of other driving aids, all of which meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Sales, service, and rental options are available. Each location helps and supports local community groups on disability awareness issues. For more information, please visit www.superiorvan.com.
The Blueprint Nebraska report is the result of a year-long, citizen-led economic development strategic planning process. It takes into consideration the views and experiences of more than 7,000 Nebraskans statewide, gathered through a survey, 60 public meetings, and the insights of 320 advisory council members representing diverse regions and business sectors across the state. The full report can be viewed online at blueprint-nebraska.org.
Transworld Advisor John Fullerton Brokers Sale of Local Spa and Beauty Resort John Fullerton, an experienced business advisor and broker with Transworld Business Advisors, recently brokered the sale of Minabella Beauty Resort to Nebraska Beauty Company LLC. Nebraska Beauty Company is locally owned by four main partners. They saw great potential in the 10,000-square-foot Minabella Beauty Resort. The original owner of Minabella started the business after earning her MBA and then grew it into one of the biggest, full-service salons in the area, featuring nail, hair, skin treatments, and massage services, as well as a well-stocked bar and lounge. With ambitions to move and open up a salon in Florida, she decided now was the right time to sell. As a business broker with Transworld Business Advisors, using Transworld’s unique online system, John was able to market Minabella on 100+ industry internet sites, publications, and to buyers in the Transworld customer relationship management and email system. Transworld’s system presents opportunities to thousands of potential buyers, both locally and internationally. Since it was established in 1989, Transworld has grown to more than 180 independently-owned and operated offices around the globe, more than 500 agents, and currently about 5,000 listings. John took the necessary steps to ensure the seller and buyer both got a good deal. He controlled the flow of information, created checklists to guide the process, marshalled required documentation, ensured that applications for licenses and lease were completed on time, and facilitated lending. Ultimately, John can confidently say the deal ended up being a win-win for both the buyer and seller. Transworld Business Advisors is the worldwide leader in business and franchise brokerage. To learn more about buying or selling a business with Transworld, visit www.buysellbusinessomaha.com or contact John at (402) 213-9945 / jfullerton@tworld.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
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INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS FOR CONSTRUCTION AND AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY Single Axis Controls | Gear Shift Levers Dual Axis Joysticks | Throttle Pedals Throttle Levers | Rocker Pedals Gio Gritta Tassorello | North America Sales Manager 402-670-5939 | ggritta@indemar.com www.indemar-northamerica.com SEPTEMBER 2019 Strictly Business
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BUSINESS NEWS Control Depot Holds Honeywell CIPer IP HVAC Controller Training Class
Pheasant Bar & Grill Opens Early for Huskers Fans, Adds Ladies’ Night and Lunch Hour
On July 10, Control Depot brought in a Honeywell corporate trainer to give 20 local HVAC Controls Contractor sales engineers and technicians a comprehensive class on Honeywell’s new CIPer Internet Protocol (IP) HVAC building automation controllers. Honeywell’s new CIPer Next Generation IP Controller line is a game changer in the building automation industry. The all new Honeywell CIPer Model 50 has you covered with expansion capabilities for up to 2,500 points. Built on the Niagara N4 Framework and full BACnet compliant, the CIPer IP Controllers give you a fully scalable solution for meeting both current and future buildings needs. Control Depot is a building automation and controls distributor serving Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and South Dakota. As a controls distributor, they sell and support a wide selection of residential and commercial controls and components to contractors and building owners. This includes everything from a simple thermostat to a complete web-based building automation system. At Control Depot, their goal is to build strong and lasting relationships with customers by providing value and experience that is unparalleled in the industry. Please contact Control Depot at (402) 934-0078 / sales@controldepotinc.com for more information on how they can help you, or go online to www.controldepotinc.com to learn about more upcoming training opportunities.
With football season here, Pheasant Bar & Grill will open their doors at 10 a.m. for all 11 a.m. games. This will give fans a chance to settle in, order some Grill snacks, and crack a cold one before Bar & t n a s a kickoff. Pheasant Bar & Grill will also Phe host a free potluck during all half-time shows. Patrons are encouraged to bring in their favorite game day snacks and dishes to share. CRAFT BEER
FOOD
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In addition, Pheasant Bar & Grill has recently added Ladies’ Night to its calendar of weekly special events. Ladies’ Night will occur every Thursday night from 9 p.m. to close with DJ Deric B. and, as a special treat, all drinks are $4 for ladies. Lastly, Pheasant Bar & Grill is now open every day for lunch at 11 a.m. with a full menu of delicious lunchtime staples. First-time guests will enjoy the fast, friendly service that many have come to love and expect from the wait and kitchen staff at the hometown sports bar. Located at 13909 S. Plaza in Millard, Pheasant Bar and Grill is a clean, respected dive bar with karaoke, pool tables, Keno, and other interactive games! Owner Lloyd Kaburu is committed to offering affordable prices for quality food, drinks, and a pleasant environment. To view the menu and learn more, visit pheasantbarandgrille.com or call (402) 895-3311.
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BUSINESS NEWS Best Care EAP’s Leadership Academy Announces September Session Dates As a part of its Leadership Academy, Best Care Employee Assistance Program (EAP) will be offering full-day “boot camps” on September 12 and 19, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., on the topics of conflict resolution and management, respectively. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. The sessions are $179 per person for clients and $219 per person for non-clients. Best Care EAP client-companies will receive preferred seating at the sessions, which are hosted in Best Care EAP’s newly renovated training room at the Center Pointe Building, 9239 West Center Rd., STE 201. The conflict resolution session is meant to help participants clarify the nature of conflict and the forces that drive it; identify their “conflict resolution style”; and practice tips, tools, and techniques for handling conflict. The management session will teach attendees how to keep employees motivated, promote independence, and encourage initiative; and “think like a manager.” Best Care EAP provides support for employees in order to create a positive impact beyond a monetary return on investment. To learn more or register for the either of the upcoming sessions, visit www. bestcareeap.org or contact EAP@BestCareEAP.org / (402) 354-8000.
Nebraska Safety Council Announces Dates for Upcoming Conferences and Trade Shows The Nebraska Safety Council has announced dates and information for their upcoming conferences and trade shows. The Panhandle Safety and Wellness Conference and Trade Show will take place on September 12, 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., at the Gering Civic Center (1050 M St., Gering, NE). The Panhandle Worksite Wellness Council and Nebraska Safety Council invite you to join them for this innovative, educational conference. Keynote speaker Scott Shellstrom will be presenting: Unleash Your Inner Da Vinci and Breakthrough Brainstorming. To register, visit http://bit.ly/ panhandle2019. In addition, the annual Nebraska Safety Council Conference and Trade Show is slated for October 16, 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., at the Holthus Convention Center in York, NE. This year’s event is celebrating the Worker 360° Ripple Effect, an approach founded on the premise of safety and wellness for the whole person, 24/7, on and off the job. The two keynote speakers are Michael Hingson and Dr. Charlie Cartwright. The Nebraska Safety Council will also be holding two pre-conference session opportunities the day before on October 15, including a leadership development course (new for 2019) from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and an environmental boot camp from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pre-conference sessions allow for an immersive, full-day learning experience, led by experts in the field. Sponsorships and exhibitor space are still available! To learn more or register, go to http://bit.ly/riplleeffect2019. The Nebraska Safety Council is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Lincoln that provides education and leadership to empower people to live safe and healthy. For more information, visit www.nesafetycouncil.org. Feel free to also contact Lisa Henning at (402) 483-2511 / lhenning@ nesafetycouncil.org with any questions. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
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Milan Laser Hair Removal Unveils Newly Remodeled Flagship Location Milan Laser Hair Removal is thrilled to announce the grand reopening of its newly remodeled flagship location in Omaha. The Omaha Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on August 14 at Milan Laser Hair Removal, located in the Shops of Legacy at 16939 Wright Plaza. Milan opened in Papillion in 2012 as a single med spa offering various spa services like Botox, fillers, teeth whitening, and injections. In 2015, they decided to focus exclusively on laser hair removal and made the transition from a med spa to a premier laser hair removal company. Milan Laser is now the largest company in the country that exclusively offers laser hair removal with 60 locations spanning 17 states. For more information, check out www.milanlaser.com.
Blur Parties to Host Back-to-Back Events in Boulder, CO for Husker Away Game Blur Parties will be hosting backto-back events on September 6 and 7 in Boulder, CO as the Huskers take on the Buffalos. The first exclusive sneak peek of the movie Day By Day will be shown Friday evening, September 6, at The Embassy Suites on Canyon from 6 to 10 p.m. (MT). The evening will be attended and MC’d by former Nebraska players. Day By Day is a story about when Nebraska reigned supreme above all others from 1993–1997 and how one program became the most dominate of all, leaving their mark in college football history as one of the greatest of all time. Food and drinks are included in the ticket price and the event is limited to 400 guests. In addition, Blur Parties has organized a pre-game tailgate and watch site on game day, Saturday, September 7, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (MT). Located at The Hiltons on Canyon (Embassy Suites, the Hilton Garden Inn, and the street in-between, less than one mile from Folsom Field). The tailgate includes access in and out with a variety of packages including food and drink. Enjoy multiple 70-80” HD TV’s outside and two 12’ movie projection screens inside. Play a variety of tailgate games including washers, cornhole, beer pong, and flip cup. A live DJ will be pumping up the fans and hyping up the competition all day long. Former Husker players will be serving fans at the bar for one hour. Tickets range from $50–$95. Tailgate space is limited to 2,000 fans. Tickets will be $10 more at the door, if not sold out. Online ticket sales end at 10 a.m. (MT) on September 7. Blur Parties can also help customize the game day experience by helping line up game tickets, hotels, or transportation. Please visit www. blurparties.com to purchase tickets and learn more. Questions can be directed to Stacy Leners at stacy@blurparties.com / (402) 882-2448. SEPTEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 9
BUSINESS NEWS Sandler Training Partners with Metro Community College to Offer Sales Workshops
City+Ventures Ranks High on Inc. 5000 List of Fastest Growing Companies Nationwide
Metropolitan Community College Workforce Innovation Division (MCC WID) recently entered into a partnership with global sales training organization, Sandler Training. The numbers tell the story as to why this is exciting for Omaha and the region: Sandler has been around for more than 40 years, is located in 25 countries, and has helped thousands of organizations who were struggling with spending too much time and money on unqualified prospects and dropping prices to close sales. Widely known for its innovative and effective sales approach, Sandler helps teams and organizations succeed and exceed goals. Upcoming Sandler workshops include: Thursday, September 12—Sales: It’s Never About Price. This course is designed for executives and selling professionals. Attendees will discuss how to change the culture within their company to get results. Wednesday, October 16—30 Days to Better Selling. Participants will examine traditional selling methods and determine which method can take them to a level of high performance or if a systematic approach is the key to more sales, increased revenues, and higher margins. Wednesday, November 20—Sales: Setting Goals. This discussion provides participants with the tools to set smart goals, a plan to achieve them, and accountability to stay on track. Each workshop is from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Metro’s Fort Omaha Campus, Building 24. The cost is $29 per course, and lunch is included. To register for the workshops, go to www.mccneb.edu or contact Robert Caldwell, workforce training manager, at (531) 622-4771 / rcaldwell11@mccneb.edu.
Omaha-based City+Ventures ranked No. 207 on the annual Inc. Magazine’s 5000 list. It’s the local firm’s second consecutive appearance on the list, but this year, the ranking catapults City+Ventures from last year’s No. 915 spot to the elite group of the top 500 fastest growing companies in the nation.
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City+Ventures owns and operates a wide array of businesses including automotive dealerships (in Los Angeles, San Diego, Dallas, and Pittsburgh), car washes, a private jet management and charter company (which holds an elite argus platinum ranking), real estate management, and construction. Locally, the firm is partnering with the City of La Vista on the highly anticipated La Vista City Centre, a $235-million redevelopment effort to create an identity for the area in the form of a mixed-use entertainment district. The plan calls for a mix of apartments, office space, and restaurants, bars and retailers, in addition to a new state-of-the-art music venue. One of the company’s brands, Rocket Carwash, is rapidly expanding across the Omaha/Lincoln metro with a number of new locations benefitting from significant investment in environmentally conscious, clean-energy technology. City+Ventures aims to be the premier investment and development company in the market by working to maximize the benefits of the investments for tenants/residents, employees, as well as the community, financial partners, and the ownership team. The company is led by co-founders Daniel White and Chris Erickson. For more information, visit www.city-ventures.com.
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BUSINESS NEWS Nebraska Entrepreneur Brings Big Smiles to Seniors Through GrandBox It was April Kelly’s calling to help seniors that attracted her to GrandBox, and in May of this year, she became its proud new owner. GrandBox is a subscription box company that brings joy to seniors across the United States by surprising them with a package of assorted goodies. It is an excellent way for children and grandchildren to show their love for their parents and grandparents by sending them goodies monthly or on special occasions. The box contains five full-size items that seniors will love, including snacks, and is customized with family photos and a personalized note. As an avid entrepreneur, April became interested in owning a company like GrandBox when she started a volunteer group at her church to support residents at a nursing home in Nebraska. The group paired volunteers with the residents of the nursing home to spend time with them and participate in activities. April also moderated Bingo for the residents and treated them to candy and baked goods as winning rewards. She saw how happy the seniors were about the experience and thought, “wow, wouldn’t they love to receive other goodies on a regular basis from loved ones?” As the new owner, April is excited about growing and diversifying the products that seniors receive in their boxes. She also plans to increase her presence on social media as she wants more people to discover the joy GrandBox can bring to the seniors in their lives. For more information on GrandBox or to order subscription box, prospective customers can visit www.mygrandbox.com.
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Millard Business Association Announces Winners from 2019 Ribstock Festival On July 27, the Millard Business Association held their 7th annual Ribstock Festival at Stinson Park in Aksarben Village. This year’s event featured 12 local BBQ vendors. The winner of the People’s Choice Grand Champion was LeBlanc’s BBQ and Cajun. The Reserve Grand Champion was a tie between Heuy’s Smokehouse BBQ and Pictured (L-R): Kenny Wayne’s New Skoo BBQ, and the First Helen Engelmeyer, Runner up was Billy Bucks Smokehouse. Engelmeyer, Jeff Gehring, Tom LaBlanc In partnership with the Food Bank of (People’s Choice Grand the Heartland, this tremendous event Champion), Todd Baumbach, drew over 5,000, making it the biggest and David Engelmeyer. Ribstock to date. One of the vendors who has been in the smoking business for 18 years said this was his biggest one-day event ever! The festival featured live music and fun activities for all. Blue House with the Rent to Own Horns belted out some great jazz in the afternoon and Eckophonic turned up the heat as the sun went down. Hines Glow provided the Entertainment Zone for children of all ages, and the Millard Business Young Professionals held Ribstock’s first cornhole tournament with 20 teams in a heated competition to take home a cash prize. In addition, three cars were provided by Auto Body Concepts Collision Center for the car smash. FotoFunSpot also had three cameras throughout Stinson Park for some fun BBQ selfie ops! The Millard Business Association would like to thank all the businesses who made this event possible, along with all the people who attended and supported their groups’s efforts. To find out more about the Millard Business Association’s events and membership, visit www. MillardBusinessAssociation.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
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BUSINESS NEWS Sarpy Chamber Presents 2019 Annual Awards Dinner The Sarpy Chamber of Commerce will hold their 2019 Annual Awards Dinner on Tuesday, October 8. The reception will be hosted at the Embassy Suites Conference Center in La Vista with a social hour beginning at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. and the award presentations at 7:30 p.m. The awards being presented include Business of the Year (25+ employees), Business of the Year (1–24 employees), Business Leader of the Year, New or Emerging Business of the Year, and Nonprofit of the Year. The sponsor of this event is Core Bank. Join the Sarpy Chamber for a night of honoring and celebrating excellence in the Sarpy County business community! More information and registration can be found online at www. sarpychamber.org. Further questions can be directed to (402) 339-3050 / chamber@sarpychamber.org.
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Midwest Ventures Brings Excitement to Growing Capitol District with 3 Unique Venues Midwest Ventures is an ownership group made up by Tom Baldwin, Ted Hawley, Tommy Bomstad, Rodney Bell, and Joe Wells. Ted, Tommy, Rodney, and Joe started their first bar out of college about 10 years ago in Des Moines, IA. Since then, they have created new venue concepts and expanded into other markets. A couple years ago, the group partnered with Tom to help them break into the Omaha market. Tom owns other bars and restaurants, including the Original Draught House in Omaha. With the continued growth of The Capitol District, Midwest Ventures decided it was the perfect location to establish three unique venues: Annie’s Irish Pub, Beer Can Alley, and The Exchange. With the official opening date of St. Patrick’s Day 2018, each bar brings a different type of vibe to the area. Annie’s Irish Pub embraces an open-air concept with patio seating, making it an ideal spot to sit outside and enjoy a few drinks. Beer Can Alley is a country music venue featuring past and present country music queued up by one of their DJ’s or performed live by bands brought in from Nashville. The Exchange is a wall street-themed nightclub that offers bottle service and drink prices that are constantly fluctuating based on a dynamic pricing structure. This works by factoring in the supply and demand on drinks at any given moment, similar to the New York Stock Exchange. Patrons are able to see the prices change on the bar’s large digital stock ticker displays so they know what drinks to buy. Annie’s Irish Pub, Beer Can Alley, and The Exchange add to the overall urban renewal that is being initiated in downtown Omaha, and each venue is available for partial or private event rental. To inquire about party rentals, contact Joe Wells at (402) 504-4290 / joe.wells@alphaventuresllc.biz. Midwest Ventures has plans to continue expanding these concepts into more markets. To learn more about what you can discover in The Capitol District, visit capitoldistrictomaha.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
BUSINESS NEWS VIBF Announces Upcoming Monthly Meeting Dates and Speakers
Kirsch Transportation Services Inc. Relocates, Announces Ribbon Cutting
The Veterans in Business Forum (VIBF) meets the first Friday of every month (0800-0900). The next meetings are 6 September and 1 November. There will be no meeting in October. These are held at UNO, College of Business Administration, Mammel Hall – Room 215, 6708 Pine Street, Omaha, NE 68182-0048. There will be two guest speakers for September: Christian Espinosa Torres with the City of Omaha will speak on the City’s Small and Emerging Business Program and Cody Sears with USPS will speak on Every Door Direct Mail. Stay tuned for November speaker information. The mission of the Veterans in Business Forum is to provide business support, education and advocacy to help veterans succeed in business and increase community awareness of veteran-owned business activities. Veterans, active duty, reservists, and civilians are welcome to join and support each other and veteran-related goals. For the latest information, to be a guest speaker, and/or to be added to the mailing list, contact Michel Thornhill at (402) 932-7243 / info@littlemountainwebdesign.com (email is preferable). Visit www. omahanebraska.com/VeteransinBusinessForumOmahaNetworking to learn more about the organization.
In August, Kirsch Transportation Services Inc. was excited to announce their move to the Gene Leahy Mall area in downtown Omaha. To celebrate, a ribbon-cutting ceremony is set for October 10, from 8 to 10 a.m. The historic building, which was previously home to Alvine Engineering, is located at 11th and Douglas Streets. The 30,000-square-foot building will house 60 employees who are responsible for moving freight around North America. The Kirsch’s were drawn to the history and charm of the building as well as the exciting renovations to the riverfront and Gene Leahy Mall. The vision has become reality, and the employees at Kirsch couldn’t be more excited to enjoy the posh new space. MCL Construction and RDG Design incorporated the Kirsch vision and culture into the entire project. The interior has been completely gutted and every inch of the new space carefully transformed to meet the specific needs of the busy operation. It was extremely important to preserve as much of the building’s history as possible, so original wood was repurposed into a large sliding barn door and custom tables in the break room. Wags Sign Co. put the final touch on the walls with several beautiful murals throughout the building. The second floor will serve as the operations area while the main floor houses a relaxing yoga studio, gym, recreation area, and full kitchen and break room. Kirsch, a third-party logistics company, was founded by Camilla Moore Kirsch and son Matthew James Kirsch in 2001. The brokerage operation handles freight for several fortune 200 companies which reflects the company’s capability and integrity to handle freight with great quality. To learn more, visit www.kirschtrans.com.
Annual HIRE Conference Offers Professional Learning, Networking Designed to enhance talent strategists’ skills in an increasingly competitive labor market, the 4th Annual HIRE Conference was held on August 8 at the Institute for Culinary Arts on Metro Community College’s Fort Omaha Campus. The event sold out and welcomed more than 170 hiring professionals. Pictured: Maggie Davis (L), “I have had the honor and privilege senior account manager of of co-chairing the HIRE Conference for MyStaff Inc. and Mary Kyle the last two years. I’m proud to say that (R), senior technical recruiting 2019 was our largest audience so far,” partner at First National Bank said Maggie Davis, HIRE Conference of Omaha, co-chairs of this co-chair. “The consistent theme of this year’s HIRE Conference. event was helping recruiters and talent acquisition professionals sharpen their saws by offering opportunities to network with likeminded professionals, form new relationships, ask questions, and spark new ways to help grow a company’s talent pool.” “This is the largest local conference for HR/recruiting professionals, and the only conference with a specific focus on recruiting and hiring,” said Mary Kyle HIRE Conference co-chair. Conference keynote speakers Tricia Tamkin and Jason Thibeault of Moore eSSentials invited attendees to up employee-relations skills by becoming “truly employee-focused organizations,” while breakout sessions advised professionals to “think critically about their goals” and execute hiring plans. HIRE Conference is a program of community volunteers and the Greater Omaha Chamber, as well as event sponsor LinkedIn and supporting sponsors Aureus Group,CRi, HRAM, Ideal Payroll Service, JobAdder, Luma Services, Montage, MyStaff, Nebraska Business, OneSource, and QAT Global. To learn more and find updates about HIRE Conference 2020, visit www.omahachamber.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
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BUSINESS NEWS BNI Heartland Chapters Support Communities and Members BNI® Heartland is proud of the way their chapters and members work together to support each other and the community. During disasters and the holiday seasons, people help others in a big way, but needs don’t take the summer off. BNI wanted to take this opportunity to share a recent example. A BNI member nonprofit organization learned of a fellow BNI member who has a child with mobility challenges. While these two members supported each other in business, the nonprofit also reached out to another charity that helps children with mobilitylimiting conditions move on their own with custom modified ride-on cars. At a recent benefit event for the nonprofit, they surprised their fellow BNI member with a vehicle for their child in appreciation for their support. BNI® Heartland is the world’s leading referral organization, with over 245,000 members in 70+ countries. The organization is based on the principle of Givers Gain, and they offer excellent opportunities for nonprofit organizations to grow, and are open to discovering new ways to give back to local communities. BNI members generate word-of-mouth business for each other through structured, results-driven groups around the world. In 2018 alone, members generated over $15 billion (USD) in revenue for member-businesses. If you would like to learn more, contact info@ bniheartland.com or visit bniheartland.com.
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Nebraska Community Foundation Presents The Dream Switch Project The Nebraska Comm unity Foundation, in partnership with Blixt, are challenging Nebraskans to “turn up their dream switch” through a co-produced community arts and development endeavor known as The Dream Switch Project.
Thank You Omaha!
Centered on a brand new original song cycle (an album that tells a story consecutively through the composition and order of songs) written by the award-winning, Nebraska-based musical theatre team Becky Boesen and David von Kampen, The Dream Switch focuses on welcoming, belonging, and how Nebraska, especially Greater Nebraska, can further its efforts to attract returners and newcomers, as well as retain those who currently call it home. The Dream Switch story revolves around a young outlier from the sandhills who decides after her first year of college in Nebraska that happiness awaits elsewhere. Audience members follow her journey as she leaves home, explores the world beyond, and then comes to her own understanding that “everything I needed to be me, was around me.” Nebraska’s own rising star, Andrea von Kampen, and a band of seven outstanding musicians have signed on to be part of the project. In addition to public performances of the song cycle, Blixt, the Nebraska Community Foundation, and local community partners will host candid, post-show conversations exploring the show’s themes, what it means to belong, and what Nebraska’s hometowns can be doing to create more welcoming places. Learn more about The Dream Switch Project and upcoming performance dates at www.nebcommfound.org/dreamswitch. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
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Strictly Business SEPTEMBER 2019
NEBRASKA BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER Meet Josh Nichol-Caddy, technology commercialization director a the Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC). Tell us a little about your business. - The Nebraska Business Development Center provides technical assistance to small businesses across Nebraska. NBDC’s services are completely confidential and most services are available at no charge. Consultants help small businesses develop business plans and financial projections as well as identify and navigate opportunities for government contracting. I help individuals and companies commercialize innovative ideas. For these clients, NBDC provides market research as well as guidance identifying and navigating relevant funding opportunities, such as grants through the federal Small Business Innovation Research program. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Over the past 20 years, I have given tours at the zoo, edited surgical footage, taught college classes, sold insulation at county fairs, freelanced, arranged and struck furniture at an event center, and reported on health, business, and entertainment for a couple of metropolitan newspapers. I have worked a lot, and I have learned a lot because all of these experiences involved challenges. Some challenges are more significant than others but that doesn’t mean my 20-year-old self was wrong to think removing 50 round tables and 400 chairs from a banquet hall in a few hours was challenging. The common thread throughout these experiences has been to learn everything I can, recognize when there remains little more to gain, and apply those lessons to the next challenge. What has been your most important achievement professionally? Another common thread throughout my various work experiences has been process improvement. At each of the jobs above, I have examples of changes I implemented that increased quality or efficiency. I’m proud that when I have left roles or organizations, things operated more smoothly than they did when I started. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - When I was agonizing over a decision to stay in one job or move for another one, I kept returning to the short-term financial implications. My parents said something along the lines of “money results from a good decision, but the reverse is rarely true.” I had never known them to speak like that, so I assumed they were quoting someone wise. I have searched for the source, but apparently they came up with this advice themselves. There certainly are limitations to this statement, but it was the advice I needed at the time. I made my decision, and I think it turned out like they said, though I guess I’ll never know for sure. What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - I draw pretty well. At work this means I tend to doodle, though I probably shouldn’t. What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I love Benson Plant Rescue. There is a real sense of community among its members, and I always get great advice about my yard from its volunteers. What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I recently visited Willa Cather’s hometown of Red Cloud, NE because Death Comes for the Archbishop is one of my favorite books. The trip inspired me to read other novels by Willa Cather, so O Pioneers! is probably the last good book I read. What is your favorite movie? - Jurassic Park. Always and forever. What is your favorite local restaurant? - Honest Abe’s. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? Phone: (402) 554-4092; Email: jnicholcaddy@unomaha.edu; Website: nbdc.unomaha.edu. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
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DARREN
Darren Johnson
EXTERIOR OPTIONS Meet Darren Johnson, founder and co-owner of Exterior Options. Tell us a little about your business. - I started Exterior Options in 2003, and it has grown to be one of the most trusted general contracting companies in the Omaha area. We recently merged with a couple other subcontractors and constructing firms to strengthen the scope of services we provide our customers. Exterior Options has built an amazing team of about 40–50 full-time employees and subcontractors who carry out roofing, siding, windows, decks, and home remodeling projects with integrity and precision. How did you get started in the business? - I grew up in a construction environment. I’m a fifth generation craftsmen and the youngest of four boys, all of whom have also become carpenters or pursued a career in construction. I really didn’t have a choice in the matter. In 2000, I left the family business and moved to Omaha to start my own business. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Merging with three other entrepreneurs. We’ve really had to figure out what our roles are in order to work together in the most efficient way. There have definitely been growing pains, but it’s been worth it because we are building something great. What has been your most important achievement professionally? Operating a mid-sized business on my own for 17 years without one call to the Better Business Bureau, maintaining a perfecting 5-star rating. In my industry, that is hard to achieve. Tell us a little about your family. - I have a wife, three teenage kids, three dogs, and two cats. We all have different personalities, but we are close because we believe it is important to support each other. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? Becoming a father. I used to be content with just swinging a hammer, but then I became a dad and my entire outlook on life changed. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - My sons play baseball, and I love watching their games. We’re also building a pool in our backyard right now so soon I’ll be able to add “hang by the pool” to this answer. Who inspires you? - God. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Success is a journey, not a destination. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - BOOM! If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - If I had the resources, I’d get into real estate development. I’m a visionary, and I believe I have the ability to take something that is run down and turn it into something that would help take our city to the next level. What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Habitat for Humanity. We donate a lot of work towards their projects because we believe in using our industry skills to give back to the community. What is your favorite local restaurant? - Mangia Italiana. They have the best Italian food in Nebraska and also happen to be right across the street from our office. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Donald Trump. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Phone: (402) 612-3516; Email: info@exterioroptionsomaha.com; Website: exterioroptionsomaha.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
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SEPTEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 19_POG22_MAY_STRICTLYBUSINESS_BRIDGE_AD.indd 1
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JOHN
Dr. John Hallgren
MISSION DIRECT PRIMARY CARE Meet Dr. John Hallgren, owner and family physician of Mission Direct Primary Care. Tell us a little about your business. - We are a direct primary care clinic, meaning we charge a monthly membership fee. That membership fee includes all visits with no limits on visits, 24/7 access to your actual doctor by phone/text/secure message, with many procedures from wart treatment to casting fractures included. We also have wholesale pricing on labs and imaging studies, and we work with specialists to ensure you have transparent, predictable pricing for your health care. We don’t bill insurance, you don’t need insurance to see us, and there are never any co-pays or per-visit fees for your visits. How did you get started in the business? - I joined the Air Force out of high school, going to the Air Force Academy and then medical school, and I’ve been a board-certified family physician for 21 years. When I retired, I had been following direct primary care and knew I wanted to practice this way. I’ve also always wanted to own my own practice, so here we go. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Currently, it’s making the transition from just being a physician to being a business owner. I’m not used to promoting, selling, networking, etc. It’s been a great challenge and definitely something I want to do, but it’s a big change. My wife Elizabeth is my business partner. She has her MBA and several years of experience doing this, so I’m learning a ton from her. She’s been a great mentor. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - I had a fantastic, varied career in the Air Force, and I feel like I achieved quite a bit. I was part of the treatment team for the USS Cole bombing victims, helped set up the triage system for the wounded coming from Afghanistan and Iraq at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, deployed twice to Central and Southwest Asia, and worked several years in combination with University of Nebraska Medical Center to educate civilian and military residents.
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Tell us a little about your family. - I’ve been married to Elizabeth for 23 years and counting. We have two grown sons. Henry graduated from Cornell College this May and will be teaching high school in Atlantic, IA. Jim is in college at Colorado School of Mines studying engineering. We also have a German Short-Haired Pointer and a Beagle/Bassett/Plott Hound to round it out. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Go to the pool, hike, walk the dogs, camp, golf, ski, paddle board, run, yard work— basically anything outside that gives an opportunity to work up a bit of a sweat. Who inspires you? - The patients I serve. We tend to appeal to skilled workers who work for small businesses, independent contractors, and small business owners. They’re working hard but not getting rich and are really at a disadvantage when trying to figure out how to pay for health care. Traditional insurance today almost requires you to be rich to be able to afford it. Our model of care delivers a lot for the cost and gives us the time to help our patients find affordable options for things we don’t do. It’s my passion to try to transform how people pay for their health care. If you could have a super power, what would it be? - I would be able to walk into any grocery store in the world and instantly know the exact location of every item on the shelves. Or fly, I don’t know. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? Phone: (402) 509-8964; Email: jhallgren@missiondpc.com; Website: missiondirectprimarycare.com.
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Strictly Business SEPTEMBER 2019
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JASON
Jason Elmore
PAWS & REMEMBER Meet Jason Elmore, co-founder and owner of Paws & Remember. Tell us a little about your business. - My sister Kelli and I started the Paws & Remember franchise in 2009. We are a pet crematorium business that offers pet memorialization to families in their time of need. Paws & Remember offers a selection of urns, jewelry, and urn packages for families to choose from. Our services are available to all veterinarian clinics as well as to the general public. We preserve a personal hair clipping and offer a clay paw print upon request. We use a stainless steel individualized tag that follows the pet to ensure individualized care and respect throughout the process. The unique part of this business is that we deal with all ages of pet lovers and a variety of pets. You can’t be too young or too old to love a pet. How did you get started in the business? - We recognized a need to offer a separate service to the community that focused on pets and their families in times of need. Pet cremation diversifies our business from our human cremation business, Elmore Crematory, which is operated separately, and our burial vault business, Omaha Wilbert Vaults. Elmore Crematory has been around since 1983 and Omaha Wilbert Vaults since 1976. Both businesses are a family business and were formerly owned by our father. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? Continually striving to provide our quality service for vet clinics and families. We are always looking for ways to serve pet loss families with a personal, individualized memorial product and service that brings them comfort in this difficult time. What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Growing the Paws & Remember business into a well-known company that has a strong tradition of quality service. Tell us a little about your family. - My wife’s name is Alicia, and I have two stepsons, ages 21 and 18. We also have a daughter who is three and a half years old. The age differences give us new surprises every day, but I wouldn’t change anything about our life. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? My daughter being born. She literally changed my daily outlook on life the very day she arrived. I’m used to being the boss at work, but when I get home my daughter quickly reminds me that isn’t the case at home. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I like a good game of chess! Who inspires you? - My father. He shared his vision, passion, and integrity as a business leader and person. From a very young age, I spent time helping him at work and learning from him. He was a great teacher and I can now admire how he always let me learn from my own mistakes. If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Genuine. What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? - I’m a bit of a thrill seeker. As a kid, I loved steep hills to snow tube down and I still enjoy a rollercoaster or a water slide. Which talent would you most like to have? - Patience. I’m always in a hurry to get things done. I am still learning how to have patience with simple things that don’t go or get done as I expect. What is your favorite TV show? - I am often caught watching old TV sitcoms. I shouldn’t admit this, but I still watch re-runs of Married with Children. I think the show was well before its time in humor. I also like to catch a daily re-run of Seinfeld. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Phone: (402) 932-0962; Email: jelmore2@cox.net; Website: www. pawsandremember.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
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Meet Ed Schaefer, owner of Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch. Tell us about your business. - Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch is a family-owned farm that hosts some of the biggest metropolitan area events. Many brides, families, and corporations can be seen on the property enjoying their time in one of the four barn venues available for rent. Our focus has been on agricultural tourism. We grow, produce, and prepare all the food for our festivals and parties. Good, old-fashion farm entertainment is the key to our mission. In the fall we feature hayrides, campfires, activities for kids, and over 16 acres of all types of pumpkins and squash. At night starting late September, we also have on-site entertainment on the weekends with nightly scares in our haunted house and haunted hayrack ride. How did you get started in the business? - I got started in the farming business back when I was working with the agricultural economics team at The United States Agency for International Development, which is part of the US Department of State. From there, I went to the Agricultural Food Nutrition office of the Government Accountability Office on Capitol Hill in Washington DC. I lived on a farm outside of DC before moving to Nebraska in 1985. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - Our biggest challenge was to see if a small, 80-acre farm could survive in a big farm environment. We knew we had to grow quality products and market direct to the consumer. We wanted to create a comfortable space with activities guests could enjoy when on-site for an event. We have repeatedly been selected as winners of the Sarpy County People Choice Awards for Event Venue and Wedding Reception categories. What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - Our farm comes alive for more than seven weeks in mid-September through October for the Annual Pumpkin Roundup and various Halloween activities. We host 1–2 mud runs per year and a weekly “Thursday Taco Night” for bike-riders and runners in the summer. We are the home of the Renaissance Festival of Nebraska that occurs on the first and second weekends in May, as well as the Midwest Pirate festival which takes place the last weekend of August. New events in 2019 included the Potter Festival in early June and a Day of The Dead celebration coming up during the first part of November. During the spring, people can be found on the property picking strawberries and sugar snap peas, and the summer is great for blackberries and raspberries! What has been your most important achievement professionally? Having a farm that is run by family members, including my sons Ty and Zach, as well as a devoted team of employees and volunteers. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Our family likes skiing in the winter and relaxing at our lake house in Beaver Lake. We also enjoy recycling lumber on the farm. Fun fact: When we moved to Nebraska at our current location off 48th St., between Highway 370 and Cornhusker Road, the farm had no buildings—every building you see on-site at the farm now was built by our family from recycled lumber we salvaged over the years. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - Never give up. Strive for your personal best every day and never accept anything less. If you don’t make your goal, remember that a person’s reach should be above his grasp. Otherwise, what is heaven for? What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - Small is Beautiful: A Study of Economics As If People Mattered by E. F. Schumacher. What is your favorite movie? - Forrest Gump. If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? For your next event, call/text Zach at (402) 661-4786 or email info@ bellevueberryfarm.com. Learn more at bellevueberryfarm.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
MIKE
Modern Business Networking
Mike Wells
OUTLOOK BUSINESS SOLUTIONS Meet Mike Wells, director of relationship development at Outlook Business Solutions. Tell us a little about your business. Outlook Business Solutions, a sister company to Outlook Nebraska, provides marketing and customer care services to businesses while creating knowledge-based jobs for people with vision loss who face an unemployment rate of 70%. The company’s goal is to have 50% of its billable hours fulfilled by visually impaired professionals with skills in customer service, graphic design, copywriting, and videography. Businesses can be successful and socially responsible by outsourcing marketing and customer care projects to Outlook Business Solutions. How did you get started in the business? - I joined Outlook Nebraska in 2016 as a member of the sales team. I worked with various customers on the purchase of their tissue and towel products. Additionally, I promoted Outlook’s employment of the visually impaired to businesses and distributors. Now, I look forward to applying my 20+ years of experience to promoting the skill sets of blind professionals who can help local businesses see their own success. Tell us a little about your family. - I am happily married to Mendy Mumby Wells. Together, we have two grown sons, Nick and Alex. What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - As a sophomore in high school, I had a terrible tobogganing accident, breaking both tibia and fibula and tearing ankle ligaments. This disabled me from playing sports for almost a year. So instead, I assisted coaching my younger brother’s soccer team, which lead to me receiving my State Licensure as a coach and eventually a position on the Olympic Development Staff for Nebraska State Soccer. I trained players to represent the State and coaches during their licensing. Forty-two years later, I still hear “coach” occasionally. What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I like taking a bike ride on many of our wonderful local trails, watching high-level soccer, and cooking/preparing meals for family and friends. What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Do you want to know who you are? Don’t ask. Act! Action will delineate and define you.” - Thomas Jefferson. Which talent would you most like to have? - Music. I love to listen to music, but I am only capable of playing the radio. If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Dog training. Even when things do not go as planned, a dog will still be happy and excited to be active and that’s contagious. What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I have been involved with training and coaching “the beautiful game” of soccer. I do this for the love of the game, and I have also had the satisfaction of training many in the art of coaching. What is your favorite local restaurant? - Mama’s Pizza for pizza, Stella’s Bar & Grill for a burger, and all the Cajun and Creole places around town, with Acadian Grille being my favorite. If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Thomas Jefferson. John F. Kennedy once said, “I think this is the most extraordinary collection of talent and of human knowledge that has ever been gathered at the White House... with the possible exception of when Thomas Jefferson dined alone.” If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Phone: (402) 614-3331; Email: mwells@outlookbusinesssolutions. com; Website: outlookbusinesssolutions.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
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FOSTER CARE: CEDARS (402) 436-5437
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Downtown Youth Drop-In Center, a Vital Resource for Homeless Teens
THE POWER OF ‘WE’ When you invest in the Chamber, we succeed together, ensuring more opportunity, a higher quality of life and a brighter future for everyone. This is what community-building looks like. Membership is an investment in your success, unlocking access to a network of support and opportunities to connect, develop and grow. The result: prosperity for you, your organization and our region. Together, we can make Greater Omaha one of the most attractive and inspirational places in the world – but only if we all are “all in.” Join today –
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CEDARS Street Outreach Services (SOS) provides street-based assistance to runaway, homeless, and at-risk youth in Nebraska. The Street Outreach staff work with youth between the ages of 13 and 21 years of age. “My parents didn’t want me at home,” says one youth who has been helped by the CEDARS Street Outreach team. “I felt alone. Everything was coming down at once, and I felt that no one was in my corner.” Without pressure or judgment, Street Outreach staff members support youth experiencing homelessness as they work to leave the streets for safe shelter, secure permanent living arrangements, or to reunite with their families. “CEDARS provided me with shelter, food, everything I needed,” says the youth. “Right now they’re helping me budget. A lot of things I didn’t learn I’m learning now.” At the Youth Opportunity Center, located at 318 S. 13th St., homeless and at-risk youth can “drop-in” to receive a hot meal, do laundry, follow hygiene routines, complete job and housing applications, receive education support, and simply sit and relax in a safe environment. The center is open the following days and times: • Mondays: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. • Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. • Fridays and Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. • Sundays: CLOSED In the past fiscal year, the CEDARS Street Outreach team supported over 200 youth who needed a more intensive level of support, meeting with staff at least three times during a month. Street Outreach staff members can be contacted 24-hours a day. Advocacy, information, and support services are also available to youth in schools, juvenile court, juvenile detention centers, other human service agencies, and churches. “Homelessness is their circumstance right now,” CEDARS Street Outreach program director, Christina Lloyd says, “but it doesn’t make the person who they are. It doesn’t define them. We’re honored to be here with the support of the community to assist them.” Currently, the team is seeking donations of individually wrapped snacks to hand out along with information to youth in need during monthly Food Markets in local schools. Donations can be dropped off at 6601 Pioneers Blvd. For more information about how CEDARS helps kids in crisis and builds strong families, visit cedarskids.org or call (402) 434-5437.
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Strictly Business SEPTEMBER 2019
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PERSONNEL NEWS Strictly Business Welcomes New Assistant Writer Kadi Carleton
Clearwater Counseling Expands Team with New Therapist, Jessica Frenzen
Strictly Business is excited to welcome University of Nebraska-Lincoln student Kadi Carleton as the new assistant writer. The Omaha native is currently a junior majoring in English with minors in biology and women/gender studies. As assistant writer, Kadi is working closely with Editor Hannah Hundley to create content for both the Lincoln and Omaha monthly editions. She assists in conducting further correspondence with clients to gather information for press and stories, and she proofreads the final copies of each issue before going to print. Kadi can be contacted at the Strictly Business office at (402) 466-3330 or by email at writer@strictlybusinessomaha.com. Welcome to the team, Kadi!
Clearwater Counseling, PC, a mental health services provider located in both Omaha and Grand Island, has recently welcomed Jessica Frenzen, Provisionally Licensed Mental Health Practitioner/Certified Masters Social Worker, to its team of therapists at its Omaha location. Jessica, who obtained her bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Nebraska at Kearney and her master’s degree in social work, clinical concentration from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, has clinical experience working with teens and adults with chronic mental illness and substance use disorders. Jessica is trained in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and uses evidence-based techniques to guide her practice. She has experience with group work and continues to co-facilitate the Solid Organ Transplant Support Group at the Nebraska Medical Center. In her new role, Jessica looks forward to helping clients reach their fullest potential, while continuing to educate and challenge herself along the way. Clearwater Counseling works with clients who are struggling with a variety of mental health diagnoses including depression, relationship issues, grief/loss/trauma, addiction and recovery, co-dependency, anxiety and phobias, parenting problems, sexual abuse and incest, physical abuse and violence, as well as various others. To learn more about staff or resources, visit clearwatercounselingpc.org. To schedule an appointment with Clearwater Counseling, or for more information about mental health services, please call (308) 210-8487 or email info@clearwatercounselingne.org.
The Set Me Free Project Expands Into Iowa, Brings on New Staff Members The Set Me Free Project is excited to announce that they have expanded their reach into Iowa. As a result of this growth, the organization recently brought on several new additions to their amazing staff: Amber Smith, regional director of Nebraska, will act as a lead for Nebraska and oversee new educators; Yolanda Harden, regional director of Iowa, will act as a lead for Iowa; and Madison Kuhn, district lead educator of Iowa, will oversee Iowa educators. Amber entered the nonprofit world in 2013. As she continued her education, Amber was able to match her experience with purpose. She will diligently work with youth and adults to carry out the mission of The Set Me Free Project, and counteract the dangers of social media and human trafficking. Yolanda joined the fight against human trafficking in 2017 in Iowa while working directly with youth services, foster youth, and child abuse prevention. Her life experience and personal passion has consistently been to serve youth who are under privileged or involved with the human services or juvenile justice systems.
Amber Smith
Yolanda Harden
Madison worked with children and adults with mental illnesses and intellectual disabilities before joining the fight against human trafficking in 2018. Madison has a passion to work with vulnerable youth and to spread awareness that human trafficking DOES happen in Iowa. After all the exciting growth this summer, Madison Kuhn The Set Me Free Project is refreshed, reorganized, and ready for the school year. As one of few organizations in the country that educates on prevention for human trafficking, The Set Me Free Project teaches people in the community what trafficking is, how to stay safe on social media, and how to evaluate relationships. To learn more, visit setmefreeproject. net or contact (402) 521-3080 / info@setmefreeproject.net. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
SEPTEMBER 2019 Strictly Business
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PERSONNEL NEWS Donna Faust Aman Named Executive Director of Outlook Enrichment
Margaret Burnham of Bridge to Better Living Earns Gerontology Certification
Donna Faust Aman has been named executive director of Outlook Enrichment, a newly-formed organization that is part of Outlook Nebraska. In this new role, Faust Aman will continue to cultivate support for Outlook’s programs addressing the critical need of technology training and cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities for the thousands of people in the region who are blind or have vision loss.
Bridge to Better Living is proud to announce the recent certification in Gerontology awarded to Margaret Burnham RN BS, a transition consultant for seniors. This certification focuses on the needs of older adults in a multidisciplinary arena. Margaret has always been passionate for seniors and their needs and has expanded her knowledge by completing the Gerontology Certification course. Topics of the six-week class included staying healthy with age, how to deal with elder abuse, assessing and managing pain in older adults, mental health, disorders of communication, death, and dying. The experience Margaret brings to Bridge to Better Living continues to validate their mission to serve seniors. Bridge to Better Living assists seniors in finding appropriate living in independent, assisted, memory assisted, or skilled care. “Placement with Passion” is their motto, which is demonstrated by their unique one-on-one approach with clients. Margaret, along with other team members, continues to highlight the importance of recognizing the value of an older generation and their loved ones. For more information on Bridge to Better Living and their no-cost service, call (402) 802-3301 or visit www.BridgetoBetterLiving.com.
The mission of Outlook Enrichment is to create opportunities for people living with vision loss to achieve personal and professional growth and experience a more inclusive community. For nearly 20 years, people with limited vision have benefited from the employment and enrichment opportunities provided by Outlook Nebraska. Learn more online at outlookne.org/enrichment or call (402) 614-3331.
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I’ve formed a lasting relationship with Allen from Cornhusker Bank, who takes the time to understand my unique personal and business needs, and can help me map out a financial roadmap to get me to my goals.
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Faust Aman joined Outlook Nebraska in 2015 and has held marketing and fund development roles. She will continue to foster relationships with Outlook Enrichment’s many participants, collaborators, and supporters inviting them all to empower their neighbor’s journey beyond vision.
Matthew Klemke, O.D. President and Founder ViewPointe Vision
Serving the Omaha/Lincoln metroplex. From left: Matthew Klemke, O.D. and Allen Chaffee
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Allen Chaffee, Omaha Market President Loan Production Office, 13340 California, Omaha 402-779-1420 | CornhuskerBank.com
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PERSONNEL NEWS Greater Omaha Chamber Introduces Members of Leadership Omaha Class 42 The Greater Omaha Chamber launc hed its 42nd class of Leadership Omaha with an orientation on August 15—the first step toward developing another cohort of leaders capable of strengthening and transforming the community. The members of Leadership Omaha Class 42, a diverse group of 49 individuals, were chosen based on their demonstrated community involvement and vision for the future of Omaha. They’ll spend the next 10 months focusing on community trusteeship, community awareness and leadership styles, ultimately joining a network of 1,700+ Leadership Omaha alumni. Members of the the Leadership Omaha Class 42 include: Sabrina Ahern, LEO A DALY; Brian Anderson, University of Nebraska Foundation; Tanin Arkfeld, Union Pacific Railroad; Kiley Armitage, QLI; Caitlin Bolte, Confluence; Nicole Carritt, University of Nebraska Medical Center; Kelli Cavey, The Omaha Community Foundation; Sam Cooper, TitleCore National; Savannah Cuevas, Spark; Steve Eck, First National Bank Omaha; Beth Evans, Jackson Lewis P.C.; Eric Ewing, Great Plains Black History Museum; Lauren Foster, Greater Omaha Chamber; Kate Gallagher, Buffett Early Childhood Institute; Steph Gould, American National Bank; Scott Hahn, Koenig|Dunne; Mark Haner, LinkedIn; Adam Hartung, Mutual of Omaha Bank; Kamron Hasan, Husch Blackwell LLP; James Hawthrone, Metropolitan Community College; Jillian Humphries, Frost Media Group; Brad Jones, MyStaff Inc.; Jay Kline, White Lotus Group; Sharlyn Konfrst, Farm Credit Services of America; Gerald Kuhn II, City of Omaha; Laura Langford, Omaha Public Power District; Emily Lindsey, Starbucks Coffee Company; Itzel Lopez, AIM Institute; Abby Mack, Carson Group; Eric Mayberry, Omaha World-Herald; Brian Miles, Bridges Trust; Pat Morris, Investors Realty, Inc.; Erica Pieper, RISE; Brian Poppe, Mutual of Omaha; Katherine Porto, Nebraska Medicine; Laurent Quenaud, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation; Cynthia Ray, BVH Architecture; Josh Render, Kiewit Building Group; Eli Rigatuso, Bellevue University; Mark Rodgers, Core Bank; Toby Samuelson, Morrissey Engineering; Allison Schorr, ICAN - Institute for Career Advancement Needs; Vanessa Silke, Baird Holm LLP; Kyle Soares, Bank of the West; Nick Thielen, EHPV Management Group Inc.; Andrew Wesely, Ayars & Ayars, Inc.; Troy Wharton, Lozier Foundation; Andy Yosten, HDR; and Jenny Zimmer, Alley Poyner Macchietto Architecture. In addition to their August 15 orientation, and prior to graduating in June 2020, participants will attend a retreat this month and then monthly, day-long seminars on community issues, including education, inclusivity, and justice. Class members will also complete small group projects that push them to translate their community education and leadership training into direct, positive impact. For more information about Leadership Omaha, contact Liz Kerrigan, leadership strategist, at (402) 978-7913 or visit www. omahachamber.org.
It’s Not What You Know, It’s Who You Know and Who Knows You! At Strictly Business Magazine we strive to recognize local businessmen and women for their significant awards, promotions, achievements, and/ or efforts in partnership with other organizations and the Omaha community. If you know of someone who meets these criteria and wish to include their news in our publication, please call (402) 466-3330 or submit your news via www.strictlybusinessomaha.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
Melissa Mayo Joins MENTOR Nebraska Melissa Mayo joined the MENTOR Nebraska leadership team on August 1 as the senior director of programming. In this role, Melissa oversees data collection and evaluation, helps implement the National Quality Mentoring System across Nebraska, oversees the implementation of the Success Mentors model, and is the initial point of contact for all new member agencies. Melissa previously served as the director of community impact-education at United Way of the Midlands and held leadership positions at Latino Center of the Midlands, Partnership 4 Kids, and Heartland Family Service. Melissa earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Nebraska Omaha. She is a 2011 graduate of the Nonprofit Executive Institute and past board member of the South YMCA. Melissa can be contacted at melissa@mentornebraska or 402715-4164. MENTOR Nebraska’s vision is for every young person to have the supportive relationships they need to grow and develop into thriving, productive, and engaged adults. Learn more at www. MENTORNebraska.org or call (402) 715-4175.
Business Ethics Alliance Welcomes Chrisna Clark to Marketing Role Beverly Kracher, Ph.D., CEO and executive director of the Business Ethics Alliance (the Alliance), is pleased to announce the hire of Chrisna Clark. Chrisna joins the Alliance after working for the Mutual of Omaha Advisors as the product and association marketing manager. She led and directly implemented marketing campaigns for Mutual’s senior health products, and coached advisors on best marketing practices for their businesses. She has 12 years of experience in the marketing, video production, and multimedia design industry. Chrisna also has a bachelor’s in communications arts with an emphasis in multimedia. Prior to Mutual, Chrisna was the marketing manager for the Salvation Army Omaha Kroc Center. She is a recipient of the 2016 platinum and 2015 gold MarCom Award for Securities America’s Connect! magazine. As a young entrepreneur, Chrisna has had her own startup and was the creative director for The New Age Group, an event marketing firm. She was also a freelance entertainment host-reporter where she spent her time interviewing A-list celebrities in LA and Hollywood during Grammys week in 2012. Chrisna was born in Japan, grew up as a military child, and now calls Omaha home. She’s a former University of Nebraska at Kearney college track athlete. Chrisna is an active member of My City Church, loves to sing, workout, and is a freelance videographer and marketing consultant in her spare time. The Greater Omaha Alliance for Business Ethics at Creighton University — the Business Ethics Alliance — is the nation’s leading nonprofit dedicated to city-level business ethics education. Learn more online at www.businessethicsalliance.org. SEPTEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 25
PERSONNEL NEWS David R. Ridder Promoted to Executive Vice President of American National Bank
Midlands Latino Community Development Corporation Appoints Amy Carolus to Board
American National Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of David R. Ridder to executive vice president, chief credit officer. Mr. Ridder joined American National Bank as a seasoned commercial banker in 2007. Since then, he has progressed through a variety of management positions leading a commercial banking team and an Omaha-based market. In 2017, David became chief credit officer of American National Bank, managing multiple teams and further developing the objectives, policies, procedures, and risk analysis of the bank’s credit portfolio. Mr. Ridder is a graduate of Midland University, with a BSBA degree in management and marketing, and of the Graduate School of Banking in Colorado. He is the past Board Chair of OneWorld Community Health Center, currently serving on the Finance Committee. He is also a member of the Finance Committee for Concordia Lutheran Schools of Omaha. Mr. Ridder has held leadership roles in numerous other volunteer organizations and is currently active in the Youth Ministry at Love Church Omaha. American National Bank is the second largest locally-owned bank based on deposits in the Omaha/Council Bluffs market area. With $3.8 billion in assets and greater than 570 employees, it operates 30 full-service offices in Nebraska and Iowa. For more information, visit www.american.bank.
The Midlands Latino Community Development Corporation (MLCDC) has named Amy Carolus to its Board of Directors. Carolus will contribute to MLCDC’s fiscal, organizational, and business areas with her expertise in finance. She currently serves as chief financial officer for Heartland Family Services, where she is responsible for all financial matters and human resource functions. Carolus has previously held the CFO and director of finance positions at the Durham Museum. Carolus received her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and her Executive MBA from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. She now has more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, planning, and program management. The Midlands Latino Community Development Corporation provides Latinos and low-income communities with opportunities to generate economic growth by providing financing products, development services, and community development that advances their ability to develop a sustainable future in the Midlands. For more information contact, Marta Sonia Londoño Mejía at (402) 933-4466 / info@midlandslatinocdc.org or visit www. midlandslatinocdc.org.
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PERSONNEL NEWS Eric Beba Announced as Toastmasters World Championship Semifinalist
Gratton Warehouse Company Welcomes Christopher Osterloh
Omaha man Eric Beba is one of 14 speech contestants in the world who will compete for the chance to become the World Champion of Public Speaking. This will be the second time Beba has made it to the semifinals in Toastmasters International’s annual speech contest. With his speech titled Live in the Now, Beba reflected on lessons learned from his son and challenged audience members to think more like a child. After advancing through four prior levels of competition, he took highest honors in a regional contest against contestants across eight Midwestern states and four central Canadian provinces. The regional win advanced Beba to a semifinal round in Denver on August 22. Beba is a member of Toastmasters Club 281, which is a part of Toastmasters District 24. He joined Toastmasters to improve his communication skills after he moved to the U.S. from Africa in 2004. Toastmasters International is a worldwide nonprofit educational organization that empowers individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. Omaha, Lincoln, and surrounding areas are served by Toastmasters District 24, which is a grouping of 70 Toastmasters clubs and 1,100 members from Kearney to Council Bluffs, IA. Learn more by visiting d24tm.org / www.toastmasters.org or connect on Facebook (@D24TM).
Christopher Osterloh has joined the Gratton Warehouse Company team as the manager of warehouse operations. In his role, Chris will oversee inventory control, shipping and receiving, warehouse layout and design, replenishment strategies, and vendor management. Since joining Gratton this year, Chris has been quick to work within his department on current practices and strategies, looking into areas where the company can continue to elevate the organization. He brings a strong background in warehouse operations and fosters collaboration amongst departments. Chris also has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha with a focus in business administration.
Omaha Chamber President David Brown Announced as ACCE Board Chair The Greater Omaha Chamber (OmahaChamber.org) recently announced that David G. Brown, president and CEO, was named chairman of the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, (ACCE) board of directors. ACCE is the nation’s largest nonprofit association for chamber professionals of its kind, representing a membership of nearly 10,000 professionals who work for and with more than 1,300 chambers of commerce around the world. ACCE board chairs serve one-year terms, and Brown’s term will span July 2019 through July 2020. In this role, he will oversee activities of a 70-member board of directors that provides leadership and strategic direction to the association’s 30-person staff. Brown accepts the tenure while continuing to lead the region’s highest-performing chamber: the Greater Omaha Chamber, a 2015 ACCE Chamber of the Year, and the catalyst organization leading the Metro’s $32-million Prosper Omaha 2.0 campaign, an initiative designed to create 10,000 jobs and $3 billion in new investment. In addition to leading ACCE’s board of directors, Brown will continue adding direction to Horizon Initiative: Chambers 2025, a future-focused endeavor designed to inspire out-of-the-box ideas for growth-centric communities. The mission of the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives is to support and develop chamber professionals to lead businesses and their communities. To accomplish this, ACCE creates quality professional development-from core competencies, to strategic problem solving, to visionary leadership. ACCE provides the tools executives need to improve the management and operations of their chambers, including identifying and analyzing the trends affecting our nation’ communities, establishing benchmarking studies, and sharing best practices. Learn more at acce.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
Gratton Warehouse Company is a local 3PL warehouse company that has been servicing customers in the warehousing industry for 125 years. They pride themselves on their customer service and operational execution to deliver above and beyond customers’ expectations. Learn more online at www.grattonwarehouse.com or call (402) 339-9993.
Berry Law Attorneys John Berry, Jr. and Justin Kalemkiarian Recognized by Super Lawyers Super Lawyers recently recognized Berry Law attorneys John S. Berry, Jr., and Justin Kalemkiarian with their exclusive annual eponymous designation. This marks the third consecutive year that Berry Law has had attorneys receive the prestigious accolade, with John named to the 2019 Great Plains Super Lawyers list and Justin lauded as a 2019 Great Plains Rising Star. Of the attorneys nominated, only 5% are selected as a Super Lawyer and an even smaller portion, 2.5% of those 40 and younger, are selected as a Rising Star.
John S. Berry
Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. John practices primarily in the area of criminal defense, helping clients fight some of the most important battles of their lives. He is a past president of the Nebraska Criminal Defense Attorneys Association Justin Kalemkiarian and a fellow of the American Board of Criminal Lawyers. He has presented and lectured on the topics of criminal defense, trial skills, and VA disability law. Justin is an experienced litigator who practices in State and Federal Courts. He represents clients in the areas of criminal defense and related civil and license-defense cases, with an emphasis on drug crimes, Title IX allegations, white collar crimes, and professional license defense. To learn more about Berry Law, visit jsberrylaw.com or call (402) 404-3214. SEPTEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 27
NONPROFIT NEWS Inclusive Communities to Commemorate Will Brown with Omaha Table Talk
The Rose House Opens Food Pantry, Announces Diaper Drive and Giveaway
September marks the 100th anniversary of the lynching of Will Brown and the Omaha Race Riots of 1919. To commemorate this violent piece of Omaha’s history, Inclusive Communities will host an Omaha Table Talk on September 23 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at UNO’s Barbara Weitz Community Engagement Center. A panel of speakers will discuss the importance of black history and storytelling as a remembrance of the events leading up to and following the riot and lynching, and what can be done to learn from the uncomfortable realities of local history.
More exciting announcements keep coming out about the The Rose House, a recently-launched local nonprofit for single mothers. Last month, the organization opened a food pantry at their new office space located at 8611 Blondo St. to serve their program participants. The pantry will serve by appointment only and each guest is allowed to visit the pantry twice per month. In addition, The Rose House is organizing a diaper drive and giveaway initiative on October 26 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., which will also be held at the office. Food collection efforts are being taken to prevent further food insecurity and the diaper drive will provide diapers to those who may not be able to afford them. The Rose House is passionate about helping people meet these basic needs.
In addition, Inclusive Communities is proud to partner with Film Streams for a community talkback around the documentary, Always in Season. This event will take place on September 24 (reference filmstreams.org for time postings). Inclusive Communities is a human relations organization confronting prejudice, bigotry, and discrimination through educational programs that raise awareness, foster leadership and encourage advocacy for a just and inclusive society. Follow Inclusive Communities on Facebook (@InclusiveCommunities) or visit www. inclusive-communities.org for more information on both events, as well as additional commemorative events throughout the city. With any questions, contact Katherine MacHolmes at katherine@ inclusive-communities.org or call (402) 391-4460.
Nonprofit Association of the Midlands to Host 13th Annual Nonprofit Summit The Nonprofit Association of the Midlands (NAM) will host its 13th annual Nonprofit Summit of the Midlands on Thursday, November 7 to bring together people, ideas, and resources that will benefit nonprofit organizations. The summit will be held at the Embassy Suites Conference Center in La Vista. Registration opened August 1 and early bird registration ends October 1. The annual event is expected to attract more than 300 national and regional thought leaders, staff, and volunteers from the nonprofit world. Additionally, the Nonprofit Summit of the Midlands will feature breakout sessions, a Catalyst Award and workshops on a variety of topics that will benefit nonprofit learners of any experience level. Every Nebraskan uses a nonprofit every day, and the annual Nonprofit Summit of the Midlands is the perfect outlet for leaders of nonprofits in the region to collaborate in one place. Approaching key issues, leveraging different opportunities and sharing what works and what doesn’t can be beneficial for nonprofit organizations of all sizes to fulfill their missions. Nonprofit Association of the Midlands strengthens the collective voice, leadership, and capacity of nonprofits to enrich the quality of community life throughout Nebraska and Western Iowa. NAM also is recognized as the State Association for Nebraska by the National Council of Nonprofits, the nation’s largest network of nonprofits. Members and non-members can learn more and register for the summit at www.nonprofitam.org/Summit2019. Further questions can be directed to Abby Hughes at (402) 557-5800 / abby@ nonprofitam.org. 28 Strictly Business SEPTEMBER 2019
Founded by TaRae Peoples, The Rose House was created to assist in the life transformations of families, providing basic life skills and employment training, temporary housing, and mental health support, as well as self-empowerment tools. Stop by The Rose House between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, or go online to www. therosehouseinc.org to learn more. Further questions can be directed to (402) 431-2366 / tpeoples@therosehouse.org.
YES’s Dance for a Chance Event Sets Fundraising, Attendance Records Thanks to the fundraising connections and dancing talents of 10 community leaders, Youth Emergency Services (YES) is proud to announce that its 11th Annual Dance for a Chance raised more than $144,000 on August 1 at the Omaha Design Center. Those figures surpassed last Photo by Debra S. Kaplan. year’s event by more than $40,000, largely due to a record number of attendees and the two-month fundraising efforts of the 10 dancers, who, in total, raised more than $85,000. Similar to Dancing with the Stars, Dance for a Chance pairs up dancers with instructors who then work together to create a dance, pick accompanying music, and practice over the summer before competing in August. At the same time, the dancers are working within their personal and professional networks to raise awareness and money for Youth Emergency Services. Attendees enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and drinks, a silent auction, wine grab, photo booth, and a variety of impressive dance routines with the opportunity to cheer on and vote for their favorites. A panel of celebrity judges—Tom Becka, Andee Hoig, and Dave Wingert, along with a silent auction winner who bid the highest for a place on the judging panel–gave rousing and often hilarious critiques of the dancers. Former Morning Blend host Mike DiGiacomo served as the host. C&A Industries returned as this year’s Presenting Sponsor, while Lindsay Corporation was the YES Champion Sponsor. Lincoln Financial Group and First Data were this year’s Partner Sponsors, and D.A. Davidson was the Supporting Sponsor. Youth Emergency Services is the only nonprofit in Omaha with the sole mission to help homeless and nearly homeless youth in the community. YES offers a full continuum of care to ensure all youth receive the support they need, no matter their situation. This includes a Street Outreach Center, Emergency Shelter, Transitional Living Program, and Maternity Home. To learn more, visit www.yesomaha.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
NONPROFIT NEWS Carter’s OshKosh B’gosh Jenius Denim Campaign to Benefit MICAH House
Heartland Hope Mission Presents Feed a Family Dinner Fundraiser
As a part of the MICAH House Jeanius Denim Campaign, stop by the Cater’s OshKosh B’gosh store at 3706 Metro Dr. in Council Bluffs, IA from now until September 30 to donate a new pair of jeans or make a cash donation at checkout for children who are experiencing homelessness. Last year, MICAH House served nearly 1,000 people, 459 of whom were children under the age of 12. Having a good pair of jeans allows kids to have clothes for school, play, and more! Founded in 1986, MICAH House is an emergency shelter that serves children, families, and women experiencing homelessness in the Omaha Metro and Southwest Iowa area. MICAH provides a safe place to live, nutritious meals, intensive case management services, an on-site health clinic, and life skills classes as individuals seek a better tomorrow. Children of the MICAH House have access to their BUDDY program, which uses play, trauma-informed methods of care, and fantastic volunteers to serve as a healing force towards traumatized children. Playing with other children in the program helps them learn social skills, critical thinking skills, self-control, and creativity. For more information about the MICAH House and their fight against homelessness, visit their website at themichahouse.org. For further questions regarding the Jeanius Denim Campaign, please contact Kristi Huhs, store manager at Carter’s, by calling (712) 366-7892.
Join Heartland Hope Mission for their fundraising dinner on Thursday, October 10. The event starts at 6 p.m. with the Don’t Go Hungry Games and hors d’oeuvres, followed by a BBQ dinner and program. Attire is casual, and guests are encouraged to come ready to purchase tickets to play games and enter raffles for a chance to win gift cards and unique experiences.
Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy Presents Horse Sponsorship Fund Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy (HETRA) is extending the opportunity to sponsor the horses in their HETRA Herd through the Horse Sponsorship Fund. The horses are a very valuable part of the HETRA team, but they are also one of the most costly parts of the program. Each equine partner costs approximately $350 per month to feed and care for, totaling $4,000 annually. With over 20 horses in the herd, that adds up quickly. Sponsoring a horse comes with great pride in knowing that you are changing lives one stride at a time. From developing core strength to calming anxiety to building self-esteem, horse sponsorships provide the necessary care these incredible horses need to make a positive impact on all who seek equine-assisted activities. Imagine what it feels like to sponsor a horse, knowing that horse is playing a significant role in the physical improvement and development of children and adults with disabilities. HETRA serves over 130 individuals with disabilities each week. There are different horse sponsorship levels available. One-year sponsors will receive recognition on HETRA’s website, Facebook and Twitter accounts, as well as in the Annual Report and Newsletter. Sponsors at this level will also have a plaque on the horse’s stall recognizing their generous donation! To learn more about the Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy and the services they provide, such as Adaptive Riding, Therapy Services, Equine Services for Veterans, and Adaptive Carriage Driving, visit www.HETRA.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
This exciting event is sponsored by Presbyterian Church of the Cross, Hy-Vee, KMTV, PenFed Credit Union, and many other generous organizations and individuals. Jason Tiedtke and Cristina Wolff are the event chairs. Table sponsorships start at $1,000 and individual tickets are also available for purchase. Funds raised will help working poor families in the community by providing them with a week’s supply of groceries, clothing, hygiene items, and community referrals. Donations can also be made by mailing a check to 2021 U St., Omaha, NE 68107 or online at HeartlandHopeMission.org. Heartland Hope Mission operates one of the largest food pantries in the state, but it is more than a pantry as it help families work toward self-sufficiency. Connect with the Heartland Hope Mission Facebook page (@HeartlandHopeMission) or contact ChelseaS@ HeartlandHopeMission.org / (402) 733-1904, Ext. 12 to learn more.
Open Door Mission to Host 65th Annual Love Your Neighbor Gala September 26 On Thursday, September 26, Open Door Mission will host their annual Love Your Neighbor dinner and auction at the Embassy Suites Conference Center in La Vista. This year is special as it marks 65 years! The silent auction will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner, program, and live auction at 7 p.m. The Love Your Neighbor Gala is a night of fun and celebration, but it also helps generate needed funds for the continued work of Open Door Mission and the programs that serve the hungry, homeless, and poverty-stricken. Individual tickets to this event are on sale now for $10 online thanks to a generous donation from a friend of the mission who offered to underwrite the cost of tickets. You can purchase your tickets at www.opendoormission.org/news-and-events/love-yourneighbor-gala. If you or your business would like to become an event sponsor, a table sponsor, or donate an auction item, please contact Deb Saraka-Rubin at (402) 829-1503 / events@ opendoormission.org. Open Door Mission is a Gospel Rescue Mission that meets the needs of individuals and families while inspiring HOPE for lasting change. Each day, Open Door Mission’s campus offers 917 safe shelter beds to homeless men, women and children, serves over 3,500 nutritious meals and provides preventative measures to more than 1,000 people living in poverty. Learn more online at www.opendoormission.org. SEPTEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 29
NONPROFIT NEWS Project Harmony to Host Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day Celebration
The Rose Theater Celebrates 70 Years, Announces 2019-20 Season
Friday, September 13 is the 15th annual Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at Champions Run, 13800 Eagle Run Dr., hosted by Project Harmony. The event will last from 6 to 10 p.m. Live music from The Confidentials will fill the inside of the pavilion while guests enjoy traditional Irish food and drink. This event attracts a crowd of more than 500 people. The first 300 people through the door will receive a free event t-shirt and everyone is eligible for great door prizes throughout the evening. Also, back by popular demand, whiskey tasting!
The Rose Theater is celebrating 70 years in Omaha with a season that blends audience favorites with world premieres and celebrity appearances, ultimately paying tribute to The Rose’s founder Emmy Gifford and her vision of revolutionary children’s theater for local families. Although Gifford passed away in 1997, her vision lives on in the work being done at The Rose. In the 2019-20 season, the theater’s Mainstage and First Stage productions will focus on stories that inspire young people to find their own voice, their own inner strength and their own sense of self. The complete 2019-20 season includes: (Member Shows) Go, Dog. Go!, August 30 – September 15; The Cat in the Hat, September 27 – October 13, 2019; Ella Enchanted, October 25 – November 10, 2019; The Diary of Anne Frank, February 28 – March 15, 2020; Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience, March 27 – April 11, 2020; Corduroy, April 24 – May 10, 2020; (Premium Shows) Elf: The Musical, November 29 – December 22, 2019; The Sound of Music, June 5–21, 2020; (Special Event Show) Howie D: Back in the Day, January 31 – February 16, 2020; (First Stage Shows) A Bucket of Blessings, October 12 – November 3, 2019; and The Little Engine That Could, February 15 – March 8, 2020. The Rose Theater, located at 2001 Farnam St., remains dedicated to its mission of enriching the lives of children and families through live theater and arts education. Visit www.rosetheater.com for a full list of tickets and pricing. Contact Kori Radloff with any questions at (402) 502-4641 / korir@rosetheater.org.
Event tickets are $75 in advance or $100 at the door. Don’t miss out on the incredible raffle prize drawings! Win a trip to Ireland ($5,000 value) or a pot of gold ($2,500 cash prize). Project Harmony has served more than 42,000 children during the past 23 years by providing a child-friendly environment in which specially trained professionals work together to access, investigate, and resolve child abuse cases. In 2018, Project Harmony provided service to almost 6,000 children through their early intervention and response services. Project Harmony would not be where it is at today without the generous support of the Omaha community. Learn more about Project Harmony or purchase tickets online at www.projectharmony.com.
Child Saving Institute Guild to Host PurseOnalities October 2 The Child Saving Institute (CSI) Guild will host its annual fundraising luncheon, PurseOnalities, Wednesday, October 2, from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Hilton Downtown, 1001 Cass St. The theme is “Hometown Heroes” and the funds raised will positively impact children and families who have experienced abuse, neglect, and trauma. The event features a silent auction of extraordinary purse packages and the opportunity to shop on-site from some of Omaha’s most popular boutique’s, with a portion of their sales proceeds being donated back to CSI. Shopping begins at 10:30 a.m. The silent auction begins at 11 a.m. and the luncheon and program begins at 11:45 a.m. Individual tickets start at $75 and table sponsorships start at $1,500. Event Chairs are Seirra Burt, Sara DeMers, Gina McDevitt, and Carissa Schrager. Honorary Chair is community philanthropist Beth Schrager. The luncheon will feature speaker and author Patrick Friman, Ph.D. He is vice president of outpatient behavioral health services and clinical professor in the University of Nebraska School of Medicine Department of Pediatrics and author of three books Dr. Friman’s work has concentrated on the gap between primary medical care for children and referral-based clinical child psychological and psychiatric care. For 127 years, Child Saving Institute has been “Responding to the cry of a child” and meeting the changing needs of metro area children based on the belief that all children should have homes where hope is kindled and dreams can be achieved. CSI served nearly 2,700 children and families in 2018. For additional information or to reserve your spot at the luncheon, visit bit.ly/PurseOnalities or contact Grace Peterson at (402) 504-3634 / gpeterson@childsaving.org. 30 Strictly Business SEPTEMBER 2019
Wear Yellow Nebraska Presents Spooks & Spokes Scavenger Hunt Ride II The Spooks & Spokes Scavenger Hunt SPOOKS & SPOKES Ride II, presented by Wear Yellow BIKE SCAVENGER HUNT RIDE Nebraska, is back again this year on Sunday, October 27. The event will kick off at 1 p.m. at Stinson Park in Aksarben Village. There will be new challenges awaiting for each team as they embark on a scavenger hunt bike ride through the trails of Omaha. Cost is $65 per team and includes an event t-shirt, food provided by Pickleman’s, and a drink ticket at LIV Lounge. Funds raised at this event go towards Wear Yellow Nebraska and their mission of supporting cancer survivors. n eb
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Teams are made up of two people. At the beginning of the scavenger hunt, teams will be given a number of questions, such as a test or a crossword puzzle, to identify the locations they need to go to collect an item or perform a task. There will be no riding on major streets. All teams will need to return to Stinson Park with the items they’ve collected by 5 p.m. Participants are invited to enjoy food and drinks at the after party at LIV Lounge following the bike ride, which is where the points will be tallied and winners will be announced! Wear Yellow Nebraska is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a clear focus on niche initiatives that offer cancer survivors support in ways that weren’t being addressed and for people who would otherwise fall through the cracks, truly caring for an individual’s special circumstances. To learn more or register for the event, go to www.wearyellownebraska.org or contact (402) 965-1699 / wearyellownebraska@gmail.com. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
NONPROFIT NEWS Tickets Now Available for CEDARS Premier Fundraiser, Power of the Purse
Kids’ Chance Wine & Indian Food Fundraiser Set for October 23
CEDARS 16th Annual Power of the Purse, the nonprofit’s premier fundraiser of the year, is scheduled t o t a ke p l a c e o n T h u r s d ay, November 7 at the Cornhusker Marriott. Starting at 6:30 p.m., guests will enjoy great fashion, great food, and a great community of women giving back, which is how event co-chairs Molly Brummond and Becky Perrett describe CEDARS upcoming charity purse auction. This first-class event is the premier fundraiser for women celebrating their power to give. Tickets are highly desired, the event is a sellout every year.
Kids’ Chance of Nebraska is pleased to present their Wine & Indian Food Fundraiser on Wednesday, October 23 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Candy Factory Atrium in downtown Lincoln, 201 N. 8th St.
During the past year, women in the community have been on a mission to select and gather the most desirable handbags from around the globe. During Power of the Purse, those carefully curated purses will be up for auction to benefit the children in CEDARS’ care. Throughout the event’s history, Power of the Purse, has raised over $1 million to help children and youth achieve safety, stability, and enduring family relationships. For more information about Power of the Purse or how CEDARS helps children and families call (402) 434-KIDS (5437) or visit the event website at cedarskids.org/purse to purchase tickets or become a sponsor.
Stephen Center Teams Up with First Responders to Create “Crisis Cards” Stephen Center has created what is known as “crisis cards” by teaming up with first responders to create a comprehensive list of local organizations best suited to address crises homeless and impoverished people face. The crisis cards include the web addresses, phone numbers, and locations of organizations that specialize in assisting impoverished people. While there are a multitude of nonprofits that serve impoverished people in and around Omaha, many people are unaware of their options due to a lack of access to the necessary means of finding said nonprofits. The crisis cards give first responders and organizations who deal with impoverished populations a convenient way of finding help they need. Stephen Center has printed and distributed 2,000 copies of the first iteration of the crisis cards and hopes that other community partners and sponsors will collaborate with them on future iterations. Their goal is to multiply circulation of the cards to whatever degree is necessary to meet the needs of low income and homeless people in Omaha and surrounding communities. Located in South Omaha, Stephen Center is a sober campus of resources for mental health and addiction services. The clients they serve are the homeless, addicted, and those in poverty. Their campus includes a homeless emergency shelter, inpatient/outpatient addiction treatment, and permanent supportive housing apartments for disabled and low-income individuals. To get crisis cards or to sponsor the printing of more you can contact Stephen Center directly at (402) 715-5441 or visit stephencenter. org/crisis. For more information, connect with @stephencenterne on social media or email marketing@stephencenter.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
Join Kids’ Chance for this great opportunity to socialize with others in the workers’ compensation arena while enjoying local wine from James Arthur Vineyards, founded by the “Pioneer of Nebraska Wine” James Ballard, along with the best Indian food from The Oven. Funds raised at this event will go towards supporting Kids’ Chance of Nebraska’s mission of furthering the education of children who have lost or had a parent seriously injured in a work-related accident—turning tragedy into opportunity! Kids’ Chance of Nebraska is a nonprofit organization raising funds to provide post-secondary and trade school scholarships to the children of Nebraska workers who have been severely or fatally injured in an employment-related accident. The children of these workers often lose opportunities for secondary education. To learn more or to reserve your tickets to the Wine & Indian Food Fundraiser, go to www.kidschanceofne.org. Further questions can be directed to Joe Dowding at (402) 580-2364 / jdlaw23@aol.com. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Chris Smith at (402) 477-1010 / chris.smith@ hakco.com.
JDRF Offers Fall Fun for Families Affected by Type 1 Diabetes The JDRF Nebraska-Southwest Iowa Chapter is thrilled to be hosting their annual Outreach Event, sponsored by the I-80 Cosmopolitan Club of Omaha, at Vala’s Pumpkin Patch on Sunday, October 6 from noon to 2 p.m. This event enables individuals living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and their families to spend a fun-filled fall day enjoying a hot dog lunch, roasting marshmallows, connecting with other families, and experiencing all that Vala’s has to offer. A Vendor Fair provides information on community resources and the latest technology for insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs). People with T1D can still enjoy Halloween treats and save some of the candy for treating low blood sugars. Anyone can use these great alternatives: • Parents can buy back the sweets from their child. • Check with your local dental offices. They often have candy buyback programs. • Give back to others! Food pantries often accept candy donations for those in need, and military organizations will send candy to troops overseas. JDRF is the leading global organization funding T1D research. JDRF works every day to change the reality of this disease—and to prevent anyone else from ever knowing it—by funding research, advocating for government support of research and new therapies, ensuring new therapies come to market and connecting the T1D community. JDRF is leading the fight against T1D by funding research, advocating for policies that accelerate access to new therapies, and providing a support network for those impacted by T1D. For more information, visit the organization’s website at www.jdrf.org/omaha or contact Anna Raur, senior outreach manager, at (402) 397-2873 / araur@jdrf.org. SEPTEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 31
NONPROFIT NEWS Greater Omaha Cage Bird Society’s Fall Bird Fair Set for September 22
Check out these new businesses who have joined the Chamber! 4Cleaning Sisters Atlas Solutions Plus BerganKDV Blair Freeman-Nebraska Realty CBD American Shaman CycleBar West Omaha EventPrep Farmers Insurance - Kevin McTaggart Fidelity Investments Goosmann Law HBE LLP Holiday Inn Express & Suites Omaha Downtown Horizon Rehabilitation Center Jerry Banks Group K Watson Group Klink Chiropractic Ludacka Wealth Partners Michael Powers Agency, LLC ParkvilleMedia, LLC Pinwheel180 Pool & Associates Sadoff E-Recycling & Data Destruction Sage Capital Society of St. Vincent DePaul Starbucks Coffee Company 222 S. 15th 8734 Pacific 12540 K St 411 N. 114th St 219 S. 72nd St
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Greater Omaha Chamber 808 Conagra Dr., Ste. 400, Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 346-5000
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The Greater Omaha Cage Bird Society’s Fall Bird Fair is Sunday, September 22, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Grass Wagon Event Center, 110 S. 29th St., Council Bluffs. Adult admission is $4. What’s a Bird Fair? It’s a one-stop-shop to purchase companion (pet) birds, from Finches to Macaws, along with birdcages, bird toys, bird food, and bird accessories directly from breeders or vendors. These one-day events are held twice a year and bring in bird breeders and vendors from across the Midwest and beyond. The Greater Omaha Cage Bird Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that serves to educate their members and the public on the special needs of companion birds. They have a very active foster and adoption programs, taking in unwanted birds, rehabilitating and rehoming them. To become a member, check out the website at www.greateromahacagebirdsociety.org or connect on Facebook (@greateromahacagebirdsociety).
ThriVinci Offers Volunteer Orientation on October 30 ThriVinci is seeking volunteers to assist with their internal communication strategy for their brand committee, as well as volunteer consultants for upcoming nonprofit projects. If you are looking to make a difference in the community with your professional skill set, stop by the volunteer orientation on October 30, 4–7 p.m. at the UNO Barbra Weitz Community Engagement Center, to learn about the projects ThriVinci has coming up. Volunteering can improve employee engagement, job retention, and morale. In addition, October 20–26 is also National Pro Bono Week, so join ThriVinci in their vision to maximize the reach of humanitarian efforts by providing all nonprofit organizations access to organizational effectiveness consultants. ThriVinci is an organization of professional volunteers committed to empowering communities by sharing knowledge and supporting the advancement of nonprofit organizations. To learn more and reserve your spot at the volunteer orientation, visit www.thrivinci.org. Further questions can be directed to Victoria Graeve-Cunningham, Mitch Cunningham, or Roxanne Dockter at (402) 281-3908 / info@thrivinci.org.
Safe Haven Golf Tournament to Benefit Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Program Heartland Family Service will host their 26th annual Safe Haven Golf Tournament on Monday, September 23, at Eagle Hills Golf Course from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. This fun, charitable event will benefit the Heartland Family Service Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault program, including the Safe Haven concealed emergency shelter to protect women, men, and children from violence. Sponsorship levels start at $500. Team play for a foursome is $500 and $125 for individual play. Founded in 1875, Heartland Family Service connects with over 54,000 individuals and families through direct services, education, and outreach each year. Their 50 programs provide critical human services to the individuals and families who ultimately shape the future of the community in the following focus areas: child and family well-being; counseling and prevention; and housing, safety, and financial stability. Learn more online at HeartlandFamilyService.org or contact Desta Clark, development manager, at (402) 552-7475 / DClark@HeartlandFamilyService.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
NONPROFIT NEWS Assistance League of Omaha Announces 2019 Christmas Caravan Tour of Homes
Congressman Don Bacon Returns to Offutt to Visit Goodwill Program Offices
Assistance League® of Omaha (ALO) presents its 45th annual Christmas Caravan Tour of Homes on Thursday, November 7, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. This event includes a tour of four family homes decorated for the holidays by local designers. Gifts of Caring, this year’s theme, exemplifies the philanthropic programs of the ALO organization. The show homes are located in Papillion, Millard, and Northwest Omaha. Florists/designers this year include Papillion Flower Patch, The Humble Hive Mercantile, Country Gardens, Studio DIY, and This & That & Other Stuff. In addition, Champions Run Country Club will host the Assistance League Thrift Shop Boutique and a bake sale on this day. The Christmas Caravan also includes a preview gala the day before on November 6. The gala includes the Thrift Shop Boutique and a preview of the show homes. All proceeds will fund ALO programs for local children and adults, including Operation School Bell® (clothing nearly 4,000 children for school), Assault Survivor Kits®, Operation Teen Parent, ACT/PSAT Review Sessions, Operation Bear Hug, Operation Recovery, and Operation Literacy. Get excited for the holiday season and join ALO for a fabulous day touring stunning homes! Pre-purchased tickets are $16 and $20 the day of the event. Tickets are available from Assistance League of Omaha members, at local HyVee stores, from any of the participating florists/designers, or online at www.alomaha.org. Call (402) 342-4288 / (402) 3421396 with any questions.
AbilityOne, an employment program offered by the Omaha-based Goodwill Industries, Inc., provides training and part-time job opportunities at federal properties for individuals with disabilities, giving them the chance to experience positive, supportive work environments. On July 29, AbilityOne program leaders and employees met with Congressman Don Bacon when he visited Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue. During an informal town hall, Bacon even had the opportunity to learn how AbilityOne has improved the lives of program participants. AbilityOne provides employment prospects at federal buildings for people with disabilities. Local opportunities include custodial, postal services, and ground maintenance at Offutt Air Force Base, the Zorinsky Federal Building in Omaha, the Denney Federal Building in Lincoln, and the VA hospitals in Omaha and Grand Island. Bacon said that he’s an advocate for AbilityOne because the program helps people who want to work find jobs, which he fully supports. Goodwill Industries, Inc., serving Eastern Nebraska and Southwest Iowa, has been a leader in helping people fulfill their dreams through work since 1933. Their mission is to train and employ people with disabilities and others who may be at a competitive disadvantage in the job market. Goodwill also provides opportunities for individuals with barriers to self-sufficiency through a variety of job opportunities and employment programs, including AbilityOne, YouthBuild AmeriCorps, Employment Solutions, and Work Experience. Learn more at GoodwillOmaha.org.
American Heart Association to Host Omaha Go Red For Women September 24 The American Hear t Association will raise awareness and funds for cardiovascular disease and stroke on Tuesday, September 24 during their Omaha Go Red For Women event, which will be held at the Embassy Suites Conference Center in La Vista. The event, chaired by Ellen Wright, will begin at 4:30 p.m. with an electronic silent auction, health fair, and educational hot topic sessions. The night will continue with a plated dinner, a live auction, a survivor runway show, and an inspiring survivor story. Omaha Go Red For Women is locally sponsored by Methodist Health System, along with media sponsors 3 News Now and Star 104.5. Proceeds benefit the lifesaving mission of the American Heart Association. One in three women’s deaths are caused by cardiovascular disease or stroke each year. In the past five years, the American Heart Association has funded over $4.1 million in Nebraska on 28 studies. However, last year the American Heart Association had to turn down 15 meritorious studies in Nebraska alone because they lacked the $2.5 million needed to fund them. The Go Red For Women Expo is a part of the American Heart Association’s national movement, sponsored by CVS Health, to end heart disease and stroke in women. Individual tickets and tables are available now at www.heart.org/OmahaGoRed. Event sponsorship opportunities are also available. Call (402) 810-6870 with any questions. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
Angels Among Us to Host Artist & Angels Gala in Childhood Cancer Awareness Month September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and, to offer a way to learn more about how to combat childhood cancer in the state of Nebraska, Angels Among Us is hosting their Artists & Angels Gala on September 20th. This fundraiser will last from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at A View on State. Childhood cancer awareness is symbolized with a gold ribbon, so Angels Among Us encourages the community to “go gold’ by attending this gala and raising funds to support families with kiddos who are battling this awful disease. In Nebraska alone, 60-80 new families a year are told their child has cancer. As a community, support can be given through financial donations to organizations that support these families, such as Angels Among Us, through advocacy and volunteer efforts. Anything from a small gesture to a large financial contribution can help families whose children are bravely fighting. Angels Among Us is a Nebraska nonprofit that provides financial and emotional support to families whose children are battling pediatric cancer. Any family living in or being treated in Nebraska is eligible to apply for financial support. In 2018, Angels Among Us provided financial support to 99 families, giving over $355,000, so they were able to remain stable during their pediatric cancer journey. Anyone who is interested in getting a table at the Angels Among Us Artist & Angels Gala, and/or would like to be a sponsor, should contact Alyssa Theilen, director of community relations/development, at (402) 934-0999 / alyssa@myangelsamongus.org. Registration is also available at www.MyAngelsAmongUs.org. SEPTEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 33
NONPROFIT NEWS Tickets on Sale for Omaha Home for Boys Roaring 20s Gala
Sirius Computer Solutions to Compete in Lung Association’s Fight For Air Corporate Cup
Omaha Home for Boys has been serving youth, young adults, and families since 1920, nearly 100 years! To celebrate this milestone, the Home is kicking off its 100-year anniversary celebration by taking it back to the 1920s when it all began. Grab your glad rags and join the Home at its Roaring 20s Gala on November 8 at the Embassy Suites Conference Center in La Vista. The festive evening begins at 5:30 p.m. with a VIP reception, speakeasy, and casino games. The fun continues with 20s-themed cocktails during social hour, a photo booth, Model-T’s, dinner and a silent auction packed with unique items and experiences. Live music by The Diamond Empire Band will top off the evening. Tickets are on sale now and a number of options are available for individuals as well as groups. Tickets start at $75 for young professionals and $125 for individuals. VIP tickets, which include access to an exclusive reception with specialty drinks, casino games, and appetizers, as well as drink tickets for the evening, are selling for $200 for individuals and $150 for young professionals. Proceeds from the Roaring 20s Gala will support the at-risk youth, young adults and families who seek the safety and guidance of Omaha Home for Boys. For more information regarding sponsorship opportunities, individual tickets, or table reservations, please visit www.OmahaHomeForBoys.org or contact (402) 457-7014 / Giving@OmahaHomeForBoys.org.
On September 8, employees of Sirius Computer Solutions will participate in the American Lung Association’s Omaha Fight For Air Corporate Cup to bond as a team, support the community, and raise awareness of lung disease. The 10K and 2-Mile run/walk is set to begin at 8 a.m. in Aksarben Village. For team captain Chris Hoke, the Corporate Cup is personal. When he was three, he had part of his right lung removed. Growing up, he often struggled with running because of his reduced lung capacity. Last year, Hoke became involved with the American Lung Association in Nebraska and competed in the Corporate Cup for the first time. This year, Hoke and one of his colleagues each set up a team under the main Sirius company team, where they compete for number of runners and highest fundraising. The team hopes to grow from 11 participants last year to 30–40 this year. Company team building is one part of the event, but the most important thing for Hoke is to help fight lung disease. “Participating in the Corporate Cup has been really rewarding for me. My lung disease was relatively mild, but for people with severe asthma, lung cancer, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, there is a much larger impact to the quality of life of the person and the family,” Hoke said. For more information about the American Lung Association, a holder of the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Guide Seal, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit Lung.org. To register for the Fight For Air Corporate Cup, go to OmahaCorporateCup.org.
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HEALTH NEWS CHAD Celebrates Annual Meeting On August 22, CHAD (Combined Health Agencies Drive) celebrated its annual meeting, reflecting on its time as CHC-NE (Community Health Charities of Nebraska) and celebrating its name change back to CHAD. The featured advocate speaker was Shara Goff, Arthritis Foundation Nebraska. Additionally, new Board members were elected onto the State Board of Directors. “Thank you to all of our supporters across the state who contributed to the success of our campaign and ensured consistent funding for our 21 member charities,” said Michelle Grossman, CEO. CHAD is a local, donor-designation driven organization that has been raising funds for Nebraska’s premier health charities since 1972. For more information on the organization’s achievements in the 2018-19 campaign, visit www.chadnebraska.org/annual-report.
NAMI Omaha Announces Date of Next Mental Health Meeting, October 3 NAMI Omaha’s next Mental Health NAMI Affiliate meeting will be held on Thursday, October 3, from 6 to 8 p.m. This meeting is free and open to the public. NAMI programs and convention news will be discussed. Election of new board members for 2019-20 will also occur at this time. These meetings take place the first Thursday of each month at First United Methodist Church, located at 7020 Cass St. in Omaha. Parking is available on the east and north side of the church. Enter through doors #4 or #6 and proceed to room 112. NAMI Omaha is a nonprofit organization composed of consumers, family members, professionals, and friends who have come together to share and take comfort in the commonality of their experiences and to educate members of their communities about serious brain disorders. As an organization, they advocate at the local, state, and national levels to improve the services and the lives of those affected by mental illness and their families. For information, go to namiomaha.org or call (402) 345-8101 / (877) 463-6264. For helpful articles on mental illness, follow the Facebook page (@NAMIOmaha).
Methodist Jennie Edmundson Gears Up for October Breast Cancer Awareness Month Plans have started for the Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital “Pink Out” events to promote the awareness and the fight against breast cancer during the month of October. The “Bosom Buddies,” survivors and advocates for the prevention and cure of breast cancer, will again be raising awareness and funds to support the work of Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital’s Breast Leadership Team through educational opportunities, community awareness, and free breast screenings. Dates have been set for Proclamations in three communities in Southwest Iowa – beginning first in Council Bluffs on Friday, October 11 at the Whiskey Road House; Glenwood, IA on October 17; and Malvern, IA on October 18. All three communities will have activities planned throughout the month. T-shirt sales begin this month to help raise funds for the cause. As the activities unfold, more information will be available on the Jennie Edmundson Foundation website, www.jehfoundation.org, and on the Facebook page (@JennieEdmundsonFoundation). You can also contact the Jennie Edmundson Foundation directly at (712) 396-6040. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
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402-933-4632 22nd Annual Omaha Women’s Health & Wellness Conference Set for October 25 Call for an appointment today!
The 22nd Omaha Women’s Health & Wellness Conference will be held Friday, October 25, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the La Vista Conference Center, 12520 Westport Parkway. The theme of the conference is: “Protecting Yourself: The Path to Improved Health” and will feature three main sessions and six health education sessions. The conference offers new health insights, encouraging and empowering messages, health screenings, exhibits and fellowship. Registration deadline is October 18. The cost is $59, which includes lectures, exhibits, breakfast, lunch and afternoon refreshments, and door prizes. Continuing nursing education credit is available at an additional $30. Low-cost screenings such as lipid and glucose profiles and a complete blood count, will be available for $17. A thyroid-stimulating hormone test will be available for $7. Flu shots will be offered for $20. Register for the conference online at OmahaWomensHealthandWellness. com. For more information, contact the Olson Center for Women’s Health at (402) 559-6345.
Nebraska Community Blood Bank to Offer Free Stop the Bleed Training in Omaha Nebraska Community Blood Bank (NCBB) is proud to offer free Stop the Bleed training to the public in partnership with Nebraska Medicine. Trainings are held at NCBB’s donor center at 12100 Pacific St. in Omaha. One in seven people entering a hospital need a blood transfusion, and donors with NCBB supply nearly all of the blood used by Nebraska hospital patients, but the need for blood can occur anywhere, not just where medical care is immediately available, and the ability to recognize and effectively stop life-threatening bleeding is vital. “Any help that a bystander could give can often make the difference between life and death before EMS arrives. With the right training, you can help save lives,” says Marjorie VanRiper, Nebraska Medicine trauma injury prevention and education coordinator. This is why the U.S. Department of Homeland Security developed the Stop the Bleed program. Stop the Bleed training empowers you to act quickly in emergency situations and take initial steps to stop uncontrolled bleeding. Almost anyone can learn these techniques, which can save and sustain someone’s life before medical help arrives. Visit NCBB.org/Bleed for details and to register. You can also sign up to donate blood or sponsor a blood drive at your organization and help save even more lives in the community! SEPTEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 35
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Omaha encounters many different types of bugs in the summer including spiders, ants, bees and more. The local Presto-X team has received the very best training to deal with pests no matter the season. Rodents are another fall and winter pest that troubles businesses and homeowners in the Omaha area. Pests in the workplace can cause a great deal of disruption, reducing productivity and creating unnecessary distractions. Pests can also damage your office, electrical wiring, computer equipment, and products stored on site. Presto-X offers a comprehensive range of pest management services for its commercial clients in the following industries: • Agriculture, Ethanol & Grain • Pre-Construction & New Construction • Bars and Restaurants • Food Processing • Hospitals and Healthcare • Hotels and Motels • Industrial & Manufacturing • Multi-Unit Housing • Offices • Pharmaceuticals • Retail • Schools • Multi-Site Customers Ant Control—Ants are one of the most commonly found pests in commercial facilities and require very specific treatments methods to successfully control. Presto-X’s state-certified, locally-licensed technicians have all received training to treat the most common types of ants found indoors, including carpenter ants, pharaoh ants, and odorous house ants. From local restaurants to highly regulated industries like food processing and manufacturing, ants can potentially inflict a lot of damage to a company’s brand image and result in financial losses. Fly Control—Presto-X regularly deals with large flies (house flies and green bottle flies) and small flies or gnats (vinegar flies, moth flies, phorid flies, and fungus gnats). Potential of harm includes contamination of food products and mechanical transfer of bacteria and/or infestation of sterile areas in health care facilities. Ticks & Flea Control—Fleas and ticks are both blood-feeding insects which can become a problem in and around structures. In the case of fleas, Presto-X recommends liquid applications of flea management
materials with an insect growth regulator may be appropriate. For ticks, a Presto-X technician will typically apply an exterior treatment to the surrounding area. Ticks and fleas can spread disease, and they cause disruption in the workplace. Employees should check for signs of bite marks or red welts, usually around ankles or other extremities. Often times ticks can be mistaken for bed bugs, they move about on the body or clothing and will embed themselves in the skin. Termite Control—Termites cause a tremendous amount of damage to wood structures, resulting in loss of property value and extensive repair costs, among other things. Signs of termite activity are typically noticed on the first floor of the structure and include the appearance of swarmers, which closely resemble swarming ants, and damage or hollowing out of wooden portions of the structure. Treating for termites can take two forms: baiting and liquid. Presto-X Pest Control uses the Sentricon® Colony Elimination System for its termite baiting program. Additional pest problems that Presto-X addresses include: bedbugs, birds, cockroaches, mosquitos, rodents, wasps and bees, and other wildlife and insect management. Response Time Presto-X responds to service calls within four hours of the request and, if covered pests are active between regularly scheduled service, your Presto-X Service Technician will respond for no additional fee. Multiple Locations? If you manage multiple locations, Presto-X offers a wide range of services to minimize the time you spend thinking about your pest control program: • Centralized billing • A single point of contact for all of your pest management needs • Standardized service across the United States Presto-X has been focused on providing professional pest control services to commercial businesses since 1932. In Omaha, their operations manager and 14 dedicated commercial and residential pest and termite control technicians have a combined 160+ years of experience serving the State of Nebraska and Iowa. They have proudly been servicing the Omaha area for over 80 years!
Call Presto-X in Omaha today to request a free site inspection: 402-551-0524 Learn more online: www.prestox.com 36
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Pet Health Pets can change a lot in a person’s world. They really become a part of the family. So when your pet’s health is failing from age or unforeseeable circumstances, it can be devastating. We talked to local pet experts for some advice on keeping pets happy and healthy so you can continue to enjoy their presence in your life for as long as possible. A crucial aspect of pet health is knowing what stage of life your pet is at and how to provide the appropriate care for that stage. For dogs, puppyhood begins at birth and can last anywhere between six and 18 months. This time is an essential period of nutrition and growth, so their diet and exercise should be closely monitored. Vaccines are going to take place throughout this entire period so be sure to choose a vet you trust! Adulthood is reached between one to three years after birth. This is when your dog will be in the best shape of his or her life, so make sure to provide plenty of exercise opportunities to keep excess weight off. This phase becomes official when your pup has reached the typical height and weight for their breed or size. Seniority in dogs starts between six and 10 years of age. Larger breeds tend to have shorter life spans and are considered seniors earlier than smaller breeds. For cats, kittenhood lasts from birth to one year. Kitten food, regular vet visits, and rapid growth are what you can expect from this time period. Age-related diseases usually start appearing in cats from year eight to 10. A balanced diet and endless love are crucial for your feline friends at this stage of their life. As our fur-babies age, they actually develop many of the same problems seen in elderly humans. Some of the most common problems geriatric pets show are cancer, heart disease, diabetes, joint or bone disease, senility, and weakness. Pain develops slowly over time, so look out for a decrease in mobility, refusal to jump up to heights they’re accustomed to, a lack of appetite, and/or an increase in anxiety and stress. If your pet is experiencing pain or discomfort at any age, it can be difficult to know what to do as an owner. One option to consider is CBD oil. CBD oil is used to increase the quality of life of your pet and can be used for pain, inflammation, anxiety, and appetite stimulation. A core reason why many people turn to CBD oil is to help a pet overcome anxieties. We spoke to Garrett Carbonell from CBD American Shaman for more information on how their products can help your fur-babies. “We always encourage new pet owners to look into CBD as an option to support their pet’s endocannabinoid system,” said Garrett. “This can support joint health and helps to relieve stress. Pets this time of year are very susceptible to stress due to thunderstorms and increased social activities.” Garrett also told us all about the newest pet products that CBD American Shaman is currently offering: “Our newest products include CBD Doggy Food, Itchy Ear Ointment, and Flaky Cat treats, and, of course, we have Garrett Carbonell our proprietary water-soluble classic option CBD American Shaman for canines and felines.” #PrintProudDigitalSmart
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CBD American Shaman is dedicated to bringing wellness to the world (fur and skin alike!) through ultra-concentrated terpene-rich CBD oil derived from all natural, high quality industrial hemp. It’s always 100% organic, gluten free, non GMO, and has no heavy metals or insecticides. Pets can be revitalized at all stages of their life with their CBD Hemp oil tincture. When you’ve committed to investing in the health of your pets, you can feel at peace when your journey with them eventually comes to an end because you know you did everything you could to give them the healthiest and happiest life possible. It’s important to show them as much love and loyalty through their senior years as they showed you in their youth. Jason Elmore, owner of Paws & Remember of Nebraska, told us about how many people choose to remember their fur-babies after they pass away. “At Paws and Remember, we want to keep your lost pets as close to your heart as possible. We have a variety of products to do that, from pet memorial wind chimes to the traditional urn. No matter what option you choose, we will help you along every step of the way through this devastating time.” Paws and Remember works tirelessly to provide grief support and memorialization to pet owners across the country. They work with veterinarians to provide staff training and education, grief room displays, pet cremation Jason Elmore services, and more. Overall, they strive to make Paws & Remember this time go as smoothly as possible through of Nebraska timely, reliable, and empathetic service. Pets leave a paw print on our hearts that don’t go away, so we should do everything we can to take care of them. It can feel overwhelming, taking responsibility for the health of your pet, but there are local experts to walk you through every step of the way. SEPTEMBER 2019 Strictly Business
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Within the landscape of business, loyalty and gratitude go a long way. It’s very important to keep relationships with business partners and clients strong, as they are the ones who make your business possible. This can be done through extending your hospitality and hosting a client appreciation event, gifting clients with useful items or enjoyable experiences, or any other type of gesture that entertains your clients and shows them that you value them. One of the simplest ways to show client appreciation is through a good, old-fashioned get-together. Whether this is an event you choose to host at your office or at an off-site venue, the majority of people are satisfied with free food, drinks, and the chance to network. If you do choose to host an event at your workplace, part of the planning is making sure that your office is clean and presentable. One locally-owned business that can help you achieve a tidy office is 360 Clean LLC. 360 Clean utilizes trained cleaning specialists and hospitalgrade disinfectant to make sure any office space is in tip-top condition, whether that is for everyday use or a special occasion. Their team of professionals are committed to meeting the individual needs of each client by creating a customized cleaning regime tailored to the commercial or residential property at hand. Cleaning can take up a lot of time, so for some companies, they can’t afford to have their staff take on extra tasks in preparation for an in-house event. On top of that, there are some cleaning considerations that require someone who knows what they are doing. In the end, you’ll be relieved you hired professionals to take care of the nooks and crannies—your guests will surely be pleased. If you’re considering hosting an out-of-office appreciation event, there are so many amazing venues in Omaha to choose from! It’s hard to go wrong with the classic wine and dine approach, so we recommend treating your clients to some delicious Cajun food in the clean, relaxed environment at Acadian Grille. “Whether you’re hosting a large group of people or just taking someone for lunch, we can make sure to provide quality service and, more importantly, extraordinary food,” Dan O’Brien, owner of Acadian Grille, informed us. Dan O’Brien “What’s great about us is that we have such Acadian Grille a unique flavor. Most of the time we see that clients appreciate the adventurous choice over a more traditional place. It’s fun watching people break down their walls of formality with some shrimp or catfish po boys, gator bites, traditional gumbo, and other raw Cajun staples. We also have burgers, pastas, soups, and salads, all of which incorporate the flavors of the South. Our selection of beers and wines are appreciated by our guests as well.” “I’ve always known that food just has a way of bringing people together,” added Dan. “If you really want to show a client that you appreciate all the business they bring, what better way is there than to sit down with them and talk, drink, and eat great food?” Another off-site destination in the Omaha area to take your clients is Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch. With the unique look of each barn, it has become a popular venue for those looking for a country-themed #PrintProudDigitalSmart
event with barnwood esthetics. It’s a tranquil area, but inside the spaces you can find all the amenities one would need to host an event. Audio and video hook-ups are available at most properties on-site. Some of the best BBQ can be sampled by your guests, as well as a full service bar to allow for a fully customizable experience. All groups small or large enjoy their time at the farm! “Plan ahead so you can budget and customize for your group,” advised Ed Schaefer, owner of Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch. “Getting ahead on event planning allows you to find options that don’t break the bank and give you the flexibility to schedule dates that work best for your guests. We find the best way to show clients that you appreciate them is to get a team involved in coordinating the experience for your get-together. We provide a space for entertaining, food/drink options and fun add-on’s like a hayrack ride or a campfire Ed Schaefer with s’mores for your group.” Bellevue Berry & As Ed emphasized, timing can be one of the Pumpkin Ranch biggest challenges when planning appreciation efforts. You want to make sure you pick a day/time that can work for the majority of people you are inviting. Another thing to consider is the menu items that accommodate everyone in your group. You can work with your venue organizer to think of food/beverage options for dietary restrictions so everyone can enjoy. “It’s important to set aside time to show clients you appreciate them,” Ed continued. “It’s a good opportunity to get to know them outside of the office in a personal way. Providing the opportunity to connect with your client can ultimately bring you clear understanding on how you can help them reach their goals.” However, sometimes it makes more sense to arrange something for your client to enjoy on their own. Even though it’s nice to show your appreciation through an activity you can enjoy together, helping that relationship grow stronger, some clients definitely prefer their space or would find it a lot more meaningful if you gave them something they could enjoy with people of their choice like friends and family members. Michelle Kaiser, owner of The Omaha Bakery, told us about how to give a gift to a client that will truly be a treat to them! “One of the most popular gifts our customers give their clients are our personalized eightinch cakes,” shared Michelle. “We have a variety of flavor and design options that look and taste delicious. A lot of the time, businesses take an opportunity to appreciate a client if they give them a good referral or if it’s a new client that they want to thank for their trust. I’ve also seen businesses send breakfast trays, cheesecakes, or even some of our famous peanut butter cinnamon rolls.” “One recent change that I’ve seen is people Michelle Kaiser are starting to be more health conscious,” The Omaha Bakery Michelle explained. “For example, a large pharmaceutical company orders from us and sends their clients a batch of Keto brownies. The low carbohydrate, sugar-free treats that we sell are healthy but still scrumptious! I’m constantly trying to think up new recipes and how to fit them into my own Keto lifestyle. I think gift giving is all about knowing what your client would want while still representing what you stand for as a brand.” It’s also important to remember not to overdo it budget wise. Always keep gifts in proportion to how much a client’s company spends with you. The last thing you want to do is make someone feel uncomfortable with an over-the-top gift.
402.991.9200 /TheOmahaBakery 608 S. 72nd St. • Omaha, NE
Whether you host a client appreciation event or you pick out the right gift to show your client you care, it’s important to let the people who have helped you build your brand know that you value their business and relationship. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
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business TechnologY While technology is amazing, it can also cause many challenges if not understood or used correctly. Since it is forever changing, advancements in technology can sometimes move quicker than most businesses are able keep up. To help our readers stay ahead of the curve, we spoke to a few local technologists who were able to share some valuable advice for business owners and leaders on the matter. “Thanks to technology, businesses have experienced considerable increases in online commerce and productivity!” Exclaimed Alvaro Oropesa with ShineForth. “Technology can enable a business to increase the quality of delivery, efficiency, and performance at any kind of work. Technology is in constant evolution and so are businesses. It is impossible to separate them from each other. What we do at ShineForth is develop systems and solutions that help businesses scale and gain market traction by solving challenging business mission objectives. We are technologists at heart and our passion is to work with purpose based companies to identify opportunities to take their outcomes to the next level. Technology is a great tool, but it is even better if you can understand it or at least know how to use it effectively. I usually encourage future generations to learn programming and how to implement technology security so they are not just simple consumers of the technology. This will increase the security on businesses data Alvaro Oropesa and also how personal information is handled.”
Finding an experienced technology partner is the way to go. Finding the right partner and landing on the right technology is hard. It’s expensive to get either wrong. It can slow you down and create debt that is difficult to pay off. That’s why it’s important to work with an experienced partner who you can trust from the start. Paula Bishop, director and client account management at Scantron Technology Solutions in Omaha, agreed that we’ve entered a time when technology and business are inextricable. “You really cannot have one without the other, unless your business is a lemonade stand,” Paula stated. “A new business owner has to select the right infrastructure, on-premise and hosted applications, technology-savvy vendors, endpoint devices, and customerfacing technology such as point of sale, Paula Bishop digital signage, web site, e-commerce, and Scantron Technology technology-based marketing. Maybe 40 Solutions years ago you could still launch a competitive business without significant technology investment; however, as the business grows, you’ll need technology to scale efforts and achieve cost efficiencies. Today, the smallest one-person kitchen table business can properly use tech platforms and devices to run circles around a larger, bricks-and-mortar competitor.”
ShineForth
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Strictly Business SEPTEMBER 2019
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According to Paula, the two greatest areas where Scantron adds value are in supporting secure, highly-performing technology environments— from maintenance and troubleshooting to long-term roadmapping and policy development—and in the total hardware lifecycle, from scoping and sourcing network devices and software to implementations, upgrades, and disposition of obsolete assets. “We serve companies remotely and on site for support, maintenance, and installations,” Paula explained. “Some of our customers say it is like getting the equivalent of a large company’s IT team, but for much less than the cost of a fulltime employee.” Paula also pointed out a few trends she’s noticed in terms of technology in the workplace: “Desk by desk, companies are realizing that techempowered employees and customers are more loyal. Virtual meetings are becoming the norm, which accommodates people on the road and working from home. Employees use their social media pages to evangelize for their companies. Work schedules are really fluid for knowledge-type work because teams have many ways to collaborate. IT-wise, we’re capitalizing on the trend toward specialization and outsourcing of complex, continuous functions like cybersecurity and hardware lifecycle management. Large companies prefer to delegate big, geographically dispersed projects instead of taking their limited IT resources away from more strategic efforts. Small and medium companies who lack deep IT resource, knowledge, and time, also know that they need help evaluating and improving their cybersecurity, or recognizing when it’s time to phase out obsolete equipment, develop an IT roadmap, or handle repairs. No one has time to sit on hold with an equipment manufacturer waiting for a return authorization, and no one wants to pay out a $20,000 ransom to unencrypt their ransomed data.” “Another trend, in terms of platforms, is the migration of major business processes from on-premise applications to the cloud,” Paula added. “This includes all types of applications. Businesses who had no time or skill set for system administration can now be sure they’re always working with the most up to date software.” We also asked Paula what she would say to a business owner who says that they are “technologically challenged” and therefore hesitant/scared to implement specific technologies into their operation. “I’ve witnessed hesitancy around many types of platforms and systems,” Paula confirmed. “Some of it is rational, such as concern over adopting a disciplined social media strategy, migrating to barcode or RFID inventory methods, or deploying a mobile app. Each of these has valid use cases that can benefit customers, employees, and the business. If the risk and cost outweigh the probable benefit, you don’t implement. There are many times where the opportunity cost and risk of not implementing something outweigh the cost savings of doing nothing. Cybersecurity is one of those things. When a smart business owner feels ‘technologically challenged’ they can’t play opossum, but they can delegate responsibility to people who eat, sleep, and breathe technology.” It’s apparent that the biggest reason most businesses outsource their IT needs is to decrease security risks. However, if your operation is large enough, the best security measure to take is to have a full-time individual or knowledgeable IT team that’s constantly monitoring your system. With any type of position at any job, there is pressure to find the right person who not only has the expertise to successfully complete the tasks at hand, but who also fits the culture of your company. The recruiting and hiring process can be very time consuming and stressful because there is that pressure. As a business owner or manager who is already spread thin handling various other responsibilities, outsourcing your recruiting efforts is a huge help. In Omaha, Concentric Corporation has been “connecting excellence” for the past 15 years! Whether your business is looking for a full time or contracted employee in an account management/sales, information technology, or sales and marketing position, their team can help you make a hiring decision you feel good about. Today’s IT professionals have to be, among other things, highly intelligent, flexible in the face of change, and passionate about their field. Concentric will help you find a candidate who’s ready to help your company grow—and grow within your company. Since Concentric began closely tracking their placements in 2005, their retention rate has grown to over 80%. Whereas some recruiting efforts have taken a turn to a more transactional, online approach, Concentric’s process goes in the opposite direction. Their #PrintProudDigitalSmart
process is deliberate and purposeful, and they always take the extra step with both parties’ best interests in mind, focusing on the relationship first and foremost. Another security measure to take on top of having someone dedicated to monitoring your business’s data and protecting you from viruses and other cyber security risks, it’s also recommended to utilize technology in terms of property protection. With surveillance cameras, authorization/ validation methods, and other security options, you will always know what is happening at your business regardless of where you are. Engineered Controls has solutions for small offices to multi-campus facilities. They are passionately committed to helping their customers achieve their safety and security goals with different security system offerings. “Most people undervalue how much protection a security system will provide compared to the cost. In most cases, added security actually saves businesses time and money by deterring revenue loss from stolen merchandise, destruction of valuable information, and vandalism. They also create a safe work environment for your employees, allowing you to make sure all your employees are in line, and give you peace of mind when you’re away,” Pat Killeen from Engineered Controls told us. “Today, you can get your security Pat Killeen system tied into your phone or email so that Engineered Controls you’re never disconnected from knowing what’s going on. The latest security systems are all about constant communication and crystal clear reliability. At Engineered Controls, we always keep the user in mind and contain an efficient and straightforward approach to safety.” Keep your customers coming back by utilizing technology that is designed to help your business excel in such a competitive marketplace. Updating your technology and having the right people in place to oversee the maintenance of it will save you more than peace of mind in the long run. SEPTEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 41
Joining Organizations Community organizations shape Omaha—they contribute to the fabric of our economy by bringing industry leaders together, offering education and resources to their members, and partnering with other local entities to implement positive change in our area. There are so many dedicated, passionate groups of like-minded individuals who are all committed to making a difference in their professional, cultural, and social communities. Joining these groups often results in forming new relationships that, in turn, lead to personal and professional growth and success. In terms of making connections in the community, professional organizations and local trade associations provide an environment rich with potential. By tapping into a network like this, in your industry or otherwise, you have access to a wealth of knowledge, referrals, helpful tips, potential job opportunities, a built-in support system, and so much more. With a variety of community organizations in Omaha, it can be difficult to know which one(s) to join or get involved in. This is why, twice a year, Strictly Business puts together this Joining Organizations feature. We want to make sure that all organizations have a chance to get their name out there and share their current efforts, membership benefits, partnership opportunities, etc. with all our readers. Strictly Business is directly mailed to over 15,000 businesses in Omaha every month, so we feel that we have a responsibility to provide our readers with relevant information about what’s happening in and around the place they call home and, most importantly, how to actually be a part of what is happening. The organizations highlighted in this feature have taken advantage of this opportunity to promote what membership or a partnership with them looks like. We encourage any of our readers who are looking for ways to grow their business or professional network, make a difference in the community, and gain valuable experience outside of the work place, to read through the descriptions of the following organizations to find out if one or more of them would be a good fit. Membership and participation in a professional organization or associations is one of the best investments of time and/or money a business person can make. If you’re an employer, you’ll reap all of the same rewards from supporting your employees to participate in professional organizations and encouraging those who are interested to do so as well. Regardless of your goal for joining a group like the ones highlighted in this feature, becoming involved in any organization is about developing meaningful relationships from which you will learn and hopefully grow your business. Here at Strictly Business, we stand behind the hard-working organizations that continuously better Omaha and its occupants. We do this by offering discounted rates to these organizations and trade associations with local chapters so they can highlight their accomplishments, awards, members, staff, and opportunities for involvement. Don’t be afraid to reach out to any of these groups to ask about how you can get involved! It could be a life-changing turning point in your professional development. 42 Strictly Business SEPTEMBER 2019 #PrintProudDigitalSmart
The Nebraska Hospital Association (NHA) has been the guiding force of its members since 1927. The NHA serves as the influential voice of its members in the health care legislative and public arenas, promoting delivery of quality health care and influencing public opinion of hospitals and health systems. Our 90+ member hospitals depend on the NHA for support and assistance with advocacy, education, quality, and data initiatives. Visit nebraskahospitals.org for more information. Huskers look out for each other – in business, in the classroom, and in life. When you join the Nebraska Alumni Association you become part of a worldwide community that wants you to succeed! Our new online mentoring and career opportunity platform, “Husker Connect,” could lead to your next career opportunity, your next great employee or your next big idea. And we bring proud Huskers together to celebrate UNL’s achievements and aspirations, champion alumni interests, and strengthen the Nebraska tradition. No matter how far you get from your college days, joining the Nebraska Alumni Association will keep you engaged, informed and connected to the university we all love. Big things are happening at Nebraska. Be part of it by becoming a member of our official alumni family today at huskeralum.org/join. The Business Ethics Alliance builds leadership, strengthens o r ga n i z a t i o n s, a n d e l e va t e s Greater Omaha through positive, practical business ethics. We are committed to illuminating Greater Omaha as a beacon for business ethics excellence for cities around the world. On October 22, 2019, we will host Omaha’s first-ever business ethics conference—EthicSpace. The inaugural event will inspire and equip attendees to build high-trust workplace cultures. Registration and event information can be found at ethicspace.org. As a non-membership, non-profit organization, we invite everyone—from the C-suite to individual contributors and all in between—to join our cause. Attend our signature events or invite us into your business, no matter what industry or size. Learn more at businessethicsalliance.org. The Nebraska Restaurant Association acts as the principal advocate for Nebraska’s hospitality industry and promotes the qualities of strength, unity and excellence in and of its membership. The Association is dedicated to serving Nebraska’s restaurant and retail beverage industries by providing comprehensive industry education, proactive representation, aggressive industry promotion and the highest quality member benefits. Membership is a small investment with big rewards in the health of your business and the entire food service industry. It’s a big world out there and we will do all we can to make it a bit smaller! For membership information and to learn more about the Nebraska Restaurant Association, contact Brandy Nielson at bnielson@ nebraska-dining.org or (402) 488-3999. Nebraska Restaurant Association is on the web at www.nebraskadining.org and facebook.com/NebraskaRestaurantAssociation. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
Passionate about where we are from and where we are going. We do more than live in this community, we imagine what it could be and push it to greater – harnessing vision, expertise, and the power of ‘we’ to raise our quality of life. We know community and business needs are ever-changing. Nothing is permanent. Nothing is guaranteed. Except for this: We’ll be here to connect and catalyze, advocate and lead, creating new opportunities, shouting up our region, strengthening it by helping others succeed. We won’t let up – and we won’t let down – because our work is too important, our pride is too deep and our community is counting on us. We are the Greater Omaha Chamber. Be part of it. OmahaChamber. org/Belong |memberservices@OmahaChamber.org| (402) 346-5000
The Empowerment Network works together with the residents and leaders to TRANSFORM the ECONOMIC condition and QUALITY OF LIFE of African Americans, North Omaha residents, and citizens of the Greater Omaha area. The goal is to close long-standing gaps in employment, entrepreneurship, education, housing and other quality of life factors to transform Omaha into a great city, thriving and prosperous, in every zip code and neighborhood. The Network CONNECTS the community on a common vision and mission; consistently COMMUNICATES key issues, solutions and priorities; COLLABORATES with individuals, groups and organizations on strategies, programs, policies and fundraising; and CREATES positive change through facilitation, advocacy, capacity-building and leadership development. The Network also generates and presents research and trends and hosts monthly and annual community meetings, summits and conferences featuring local, regional and national speakers. The Network model, recognized regionally and nationally, relies on each person and organization doing their part. For more information about the Empowerment Network, please contact our office at (402) 502-5153, email info@empoweromaha.com or visit www.empoweromaha.com.
B N I H e a r t l a n d m e m b e r s e n j oy unparalleled business growth. As the world’s largest referral network, BNI passed over 8.8 million referrals last year, resulting in more than $11.2 billion in business. More importantly, our area members throughout NE, IA, SD, and WY closed over $40 million in tracked business – creating a return of 700 times their investment – with much of that supporting local business. BNI Heartland is proud to say we have surpassed the $250 million mark of closed business locally over the last 10 years! Members also increase their exposure to like-minded professionals, gain referrals from a local and global network, and sharpen their networking skills with exclusive member resources. Belonging to BNI is like having dozens of salespeople working for you. BNI provides a proven structured system of giving and receiving business. It does this through an environment and support structure that cultivates more formal and deeper relationships with other professionals. Our members have the opportunity to substantially increase their business though BNI’s Core Values of Givers Gain, Building Relationships, LifeLong Learning, Traditions + Innovation, Positive Attitude, Accountability, and Recognition. For more information about BNI Heartland, please contact our regional office at (402) 880-6311, email info@bniheartland.com, or visit our website, www.bniheartland.com. SEPTEMBER 2019 Strictly Business 43
The Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the rebranding of its young professional group to the Sarpy Chamber Modern Professionals. The purpose and vision of the Sarpy Chamber Young Professional group had grown well beyond its original mission of helping young professional establish roots and grow networks in their communities. Professionals of every age have been utilizing the dynamic energy of the group to learn and grow, and the rebranding better reflects the group’s identity. The Sarpy Chamber Modern Professionals group is designed to support and strengthen you at pivotal moments in your professional life. Whether you’re starting a new career, settling into a new place, or beginning your journey, SC Modern Professionals meets you in your present to ignite your future. For more information on joining the SC Modern Professional Group, contact chamber@sarpychamber.org. Visit www.sarpychamber.org/ events to learn more about upcoming Modern Professional events.
Toastmasters International is a worldwide nonprofit educational organization that empowers individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. Headquartered in Englewood, CO, the organization’s membership exceeds 357,000 in more than 16,600 clubs in 143 countries. Since 1924, Toastmasters International has helped people from diverse backgrounds become more confident speakers, communicators, and leaders. For information about local Toastmasters clubs, please visit www.toastmasters.org and follow @ Toastmasters on Twitter. Omaha, Lincoln, and surrounding areas are served by Toastmasters District 24. District 24 is a grouping of 70 Toastmasters clubs and 1,100 members from Kearney, NE to Council Bluffs, IA. Learn more about District 24 and our upcoming meetings and events by visiting d24tm.org, www. facebook.com/D24TM, or www.meetup.com/District-24-ToastmastersMeetup. Come visit us, because we believe that Toastmasters helps you build the confidence and skills to be a better you.
For 65 years women in the construction industry have had a place to go for career development, networking, education, and mentoring. That place is the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). NAWIC gives women a place to develop their leadership skills and forge connections with other women in the industry. NAWIC offers women a multitude of opportunities. With NAWIC you can: • Continue your education. • Establish a networking base. • Be a mentor or mentee. • Make a difference in your community. • Embark on a new career. • Invest in great friendships. The Greater Omaha Chapter meets on the second Thursday of each month at various locations in the Omaha area. Visitors are welcome to attend. Current information about upcoming meeting locations, topics and times is available on our website at www.nawicomaha.com.
The Cornhusker Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors continually strives to be the leading voice promoting free enterprise within the construction industry in Nebraska. The organization’s main goal is to provide member companies and their employees with an opportunity to succeed, winning work and delivering that work safely, ethically, and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which they work. Whether a large or small company, joining ABC provides value. ABC offers apprenticeship training through the NCCER Curriculum, continuing education courses, and opportunities for networking and showcasing project successes. Our mission affords us the opportunity to share the industry through student events to help build the workforce in Nebraska. For more information or to join ABC Cornhusker Chapter, contact Chase or Anne at (402) 477-4451 or email chasew@abcnebraska.org. You can also visit www.abcnebraska.org to find out more.
The Millard Business Association (MBA) was established in 2003 and is comprised of more than 350 area businesses who believe strongly in the free enterprise system. The MBA provides the catalyst for our new members to grow and prosper through a variety of events, opportunities, services, and programs. Joining this thriving organization is great way to GROW Your Business. Members do not need to reside in Millard. The basic requirement is doing business or wanting to do business in the Millard area. Membership is only $130 per year. Some of the benefits include: • Networking and Exposure—“It’s not what you know but who you know.” Make all those important contacts through Networking Lunches, “Bagels & Business” Meetings, Business After Hours, and Ribbon Cuttings. Join one of our many active referral groups. • Government Representation—Attend one of our Government lunches, meet one-on-one with your local, State, and Federal representatives. • Educational Opportunities—Stay competitive, be productive! Our monthly “Lunch and Learns” offer expert advice for today’s economy. • Membership Directory—As a member you receive a free listing in the printed and online directory, which is distributed across the entire Millard area (30,000 copies printed yearly). Apply for membership at www.MillardBusinessAssociation.org. For more information, contact the MBA Admin, Kim Jipp, at (402) 7072827 or email info@millardbusinessassociation.org. 44 Strictly Business SEPTEMBER 2019
The Apartment Association of Nebraska (AAN) is the local affiliate of the National Apartment Association (NAA). The NAA currently has over 170 affiliates and boasts over 8.7 million apartment homes globally. Founded in 2002, the Apartment Association of Greater Omaha and Lincoln was created by a group of property managers and owners with a vision to help create and maintain a high level of professionalism in the multifamily rental housing industry in the greater Nebraska area. On October 5, 2002, the AAGOL received its charter from the NAA. In 2014, the name was changed to the Apartment Association of Nebraska to better represent their membership. Their members include multifamily owners and management companies, apartment communities, and the supplier members who service this industry. In January of 2019, the AAN launched the Nebraska Maintenance Academy (NMA), a hands-on training academy for those wishing to secure a career in the multifamily industry as a maintenance technician. The first of its kind in Nebraska, NMA will offer vocational training to those most in need, including but not limited to non-college bound high school students, veterans, and any individual who desires a meaningful career change. The goal is to train 45 people per year at NO cost to the students and then to immediately place the students into careers. The mission of the Apartment Association of Nebraska is to support, inform, and connect the multifamily community through education, legislation advocacy, and professional networking. For more information, be sure to visit www.aaneb.org. #PrintProudDigitalSmart
Senior Living The aging adult today is more tech-savvy, active longer due to advances in health care, and accustom to good services. Our seniors want convenience in their own home and have unique financial needs. It’s important that senior providers and communities keep up with these trends. Since we reach a lot of readers who are either nearing their retirement years or are the caretaker of a senior loved one, we feel it’s important to highlight living and care options here in Omaha that are committed to listening to and delivering what aging adults need at this stage in their life. Emphasizing the importance of planning early for retirement and senior living arrangements was Jennifer Knecht, vice president of marketing and sales at Immanuel. Jennifer pointed out that retirement communities aren’t just for seniors who need healthcare support—there are so many more benefits including maintenance-free living, health and wellness opportunities, lifelong learning, organized social events, travel opportunities, and community involvement. “Retirees no longer want a ‘restful’ retirement,” Jennifer Knecht Jennifer revealed. “They see this time as an Immanuel opportunity to explore new passions and build new friendships. Retirement communities help support residents with whatever their retirement goals might be. Rightsizing, ensuring your home ‘fits’ in your season of life, is often the first step in retirement planning. We find many seniors looking for smaller homes and apartments that allow them to spend less time mowing the yard and more time checking off their bucket lists.” “Family members should know that there are many ways to help loved ones as they age,” added Jennifer. “Beyond keeping an eye on physical conditions, we see many family members take an active role in touring retirement communities as well as conducting online research of care options, but the retirement living space is crowded and confusing with so many communities looking the same and even offering similar amenities. Industry-wide, we’re seeing a significant shift away from local providers toward national chains. This has caused a sharp disconnect between senior resident needs, community maintenance, and profitdriven corporate decisions. Compare financial and corporate strategies: What percentage of profits above operational expenses will go into community and program improvements? How is quality measured? Immanuel is deeply rooted in Nebraska. We were founded in Omaha over 131 years ago and since then have been committed to a not-forprofit mission. What this means for residents and participants is they know that we are dedicated to significantly investing directly into enhancing programming, updating our buildings, and supporting other like-minded community organizations.” There really are a lot of options out there in terms of senior living and care, and more options continue to pop up as Omaha grows and the baby boomer generation retires at a record rate of 10,000 a day. One of the newest senior living options is Ovation by Avamere in the #PrintProudDigitalSmart
Guiding Hands will educate, advocate, and navigate healthcare services for the people you love. You don’t have to do it alone!
Contact us at 402-209-3638
Stephanie Witt | Owner
Our family can help your family.
Our family of services can support your loved one with our wide array of care services, including: • Adult day services • Independent living • Assisted living and memory support • Long-term care • Short-term rehab • In-home companion services • Home health and hospice
Neaednswers?
Call (402) 682-4800 or visit hillcresthealth.com
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new Heartwood Preserve development in West Omaha. Ovation by Avamere offers an “Active Adult Lifestyle Village” consisting of 150 independent living, 90 assisted living, and 60 memory care residences spread across a two-building campus with a full continuum of care. These residences embrace high-end finishes, technologically advanced features that assist with wellness, comfort, and communication, multiple culinary venues, a spa, robust lifestyle programs, and high-touch customer service. Ovation residents will enjoy shopping, dining and entertainment just across the street. “The development embraces the culture of exceeding and anticipating the expectations of our residents and engaging those we serve in the Ovation Culture,” said Nicolette Merino, president of Ovation by Avamere in Omaha. “Our focus is on a well-balanced wellness program that encompasses all dimensions of wellness and working with each resident to engage them in an active lifestyle.” “The key to making the best choice is to match your residence with your lifestyle and desires,” Nicolette advised. “Think about what you want Nicolette Merino your average day to look like. Find a residence Ovation by Avamere that can meet those wants and desires. If you are looking for a new living situation, take the time to tour the property, meet the staff, and engage in the residence before you make a decision. Ovation encourages those seeking an environment of wellness and engagement to visit our Reservation Showroom to see all that Ovation has to offer the discerning active adult.” Seniors have more options than ever these days, whether they want to move to a community or stay at home. Hillcrest Health Services offers both of these services for aging adults in the Omaha region, serving almost 1,500 seniors every day. “Since Hillcrest offers a variety of different service options, we welcome the opportunity for aging adults and their families to talk with us about
those options and all of the possible paths they might consider as they age,” noted Jim Janicki with Hillcrest Health Services. “From assisted living and long-term care, to our Caring Companions private-duty service, we have options to help seniors age their way. We even have an adult day center, The Club at Hillcrest Maple Rose, designed for individuals who live at home but could benefit from social contact with friends their age. We also know that helping a loved one through a transitional period can be difficult, so we offer multiple Jim Janicki support groups to help family members and Hillcrest Health Services caregivers through these situations.” If you have a beloved elder family member who needs more care than you’re able to provide, moving into an independent living community may be a positive solution. Oasis Senior Advisors in Omaha is an outlet for caregivers to find support. The professionals at Oasis offer free senior housing placement services so you can find the right community that meets the needs of your loved one. Oasis Senior Advisors relies on their cutting-edge OasisIQ™ software, as well as their extensive knowledge of the community, in order to reveal the best option available to each specific client. There is no denying that it is a little scary and even embarrassing to realize you need a caregiver as you lose bits and pieces of your independence with age. Not being able to hear or see as well as you used to, or even being unable to keep your balance when you walk or try to carry something, can really be hard to accept. Kyle Johnson, president of Kyle Johnson Care Consultants for the Aging in Omaha, Care Consultants said he typically sees seniors wait too long to for the Aging
Here for Mom. Immanuel is in it for the people, not for the profit. They truly care about my mom. Helping me worry less and supporting her to live more. Download your FREE Non-Profit vs. For-Profit Comparison Guide at www.WhyIMM.org
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ask for help. Adult children tend to notice signs of independence loss before the senior does, but they are hesitant to say something out of fear of upsetting their parents. This is a dangerous scenario of waiting for the “major incident” to happen before getting help in the home. “Clients that we begin services with are typically just starting to notice the difficulties of living independently in their own homes, and are starting to need assistance with their daily activities,” Kyle explained. “We are the largest Home Care Registry in the State of Nebraska and our model is different than any other home care provider available to clients. All of our caregivers are licensed CNAs and work as independent contractors for their clients. Before any caregiver is allowed to work with a client, they are run through all background checks, criminal history reports, work authorization in the United States, CPR certified, must carry their own professional liability insurance, and are bonded through our company. Our rates are the most competitive in the industry and have the ability to start services with no upfront deposits or hourly minimums. The care we provide is client-directed, ensuring that you make the best, informed decisions for yourself and your loved ones.” There are aging seniors who desperately want to stay in the home they’ve lived in for 50+ years, even if it is just for a short-term rehabilitation time. This is why in-home care is such a great option to have. If you are currently unable to be active due to an injury or impending surgery, it’s important to plan for rehabilitation in order to return to a healthy, active lifestyle as soon as possible. Home Nursing With Heart provides professional staff who go into the homes of their patients to treat various ailments, post-surgical conditions, and provide physical and occupational therapy. Medicare generally covers these visits financially for the patient. They can also evaluate the home environment and make suggestions for modifications so that patients are able to continue to stay in their homes as long as possible. Since most injuries and falls happen in the bathroom, bathroom modifications/ safety equipment may need to be considered as a priority. This can be as simple as grab bars, removing rugs, obtaining a toilet seat riser, etc. “At Home Nursing With Heart, we have an occupational therapist conduct a safety evaluation in the home and make specific suggestions to improve safety,” confirmed Jim Laughlin, Home Nursing With Heart’s chief operating officer. “When challenges are identified, we work with the patient, their family, and many times a medical social worker to help make the best choices for the patient and ensure they stay safe and happy.” Life will certainly bring changes and challenges. Preparing for your senior years and these Jim Laughlin Home Nursing with Heart changes may result in stress or confusion. Change can feel overwhelming and finding solutions become time-consuming. This is why Bridge to Better Living and their staff of transition consultants decrease the anxiety and worries that come with searching for a new lifestyle by sharing their extensive knowledge and resources. They emphasizes the importance of knowing what is best for the client, focusing specifically on their needs. “It is important for us to first build a relationship with the client and discuss with them an educated plan to move forward,” said Robbie Nathan, training director for Bridge to Better Living. “Our transition consultants discuss communities that fit the client’s unique needs and wants, arrange tours with the communities when the clients are available, and act as their personal guide. Focus is placed on the client; there is no bias, no wrong directions, and the service Bridge to Better Living offers is always no-cost to the client. A transition Robbie Nathan consultant accompanies their client on each tour Bridge to Better Living and takes notes pertaining to the community being visited. Our staff has over 150 years of experience and each consultant is aware of the processes essential for successful placement.” #PrintProudDigitalSmart
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Robbie acknowledged how too often people want to wait until “it’s time.” However, it is better to plan ahead, learn the possibilities, see the choices in different styles of living, and develop a “Plan B” for the future. Communities may be similar, but they are not one size fits all—each living option offers diverse services, amenities, plans. If you’ve seen one retirement community, you’ve seen one retirement community. “Neighbors, friends, and families all experience various outcomes from their choices—not everyone is the same.” Robbie stated. “We want clients to think about what is best for them. Is there a specific location they want? How many meals would be available? Is transportation necessary? Will an on-site medical staff be necessary? Is the cost affordable? What type of payment is required? Are there fitness rooms? Square footage and lighting are also important factors to some. These are all taken into account when we assist in placing seniors in a new place that they can happily call home.” Bridge to Better Living’s motto is Placement with Passion, and they take it seriously. One of the biggest factors for families when determining living and care options is what they can afford, which is mainly based on what type of insurance provider and plan they have. To tell us more about this, we talked to Lynn Hummel, RN, clinical administrator of Brookestone Home Health Care. “If switching from Medicare to an advantage plan, be sure that the plan covers what you believe your needs are now and in the future,” Lynn stated. “As we age, most people need more coverage. Determine if out of pocket Lynn Hummel 402.669.9490 expenses are something that you can afford Brookstone Home Omaha@YourOasisAdvisor.com to meet. Long-term care insurance is a big help Health Care AnswersForMom.com for aging seniors. Let family members know Kyle Johnson Jenny Trebold Senior Living Advisor Senior Living Advisor your wishes and remember that it’s never too early to set up power of attorney, living wills, etc.” “Due to the nature of our business, our services are billable to insurance S H O R T- T E R M R E H A B I L I TAT I O N | S K I L L E D N U R S I N G companies as long as there is a skilled need,” Lynn explained. “A big Oasis Senior Advisors_KJohnson_Quarter Page.indd 1 1/11/2019 9:49:36 AMfactor that needs to be considered is the cost for supplementary services such as private duty or facility placement. When choosing any provider, be sure to ask questions about their range of services, the company history, quality of care standards, how services work, and payment. Many people who qualify for VA benefits aren’t even aware that they have this benefit.” It is projected that by 2020, over 20% of the US population will be 60 or older, totaling over 77 million people. In Nebraska alone, the need for staff and caregivers in skilled nursing and assisted living will grow by 19%. This growth outlook and change in mindset among the aging population demands qualified professionals who can offer ideas and solutions to address the opportunities of this group. Individuals in industries like finance, health/wellness, business, and marketing would all benefit by having a key understanding of the multi-disciplinary fields of elder care. The University of Nebraska offers bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and certificates in gerontology, long-term care management, social work, and human and family service administration. With the University’s online programs, many adult students are able to pursue higher education while juggling multiple demands including work, family, and other commitments. Here is a testimony from one of these students: ELKHORN “I became an advocate for elderly and disabled people within the 600 Brookestone Meadows Plz. realm of interior design. The fully-online Gerontology, Interior Design brookestonemeadows.com graduate certificate program from the University of Nebraska allowed me to combine my desire to serve the aging community with my passion for interior design. The program enabled me to critically think about accessibility issues.” - Emily Drummy, Architecture, MS and Certificate in Gerontology, UNL and UNO Whether you are the one considering retirement plans, senior living options, in-home healthcare needs, or ways to make your life easier as you age, or you’re the caretaker for a senior loved one, we hope you learned a few things about what and who is available in Omaha to help you along the way. 48 Strictly Business SEPTEMBER 2019 #PrintProudDigitalSmart
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