FOUR NEBRASKA BUSINESSES OWNERS RECEIVE
2013 ENTREPRENEUR OF DISTINCTION AWARDS
Four Nebraska business owners who received assistance from Nebraska VR were recognized for their success.
The following three business owners received the 2013 Entrepreneur of Distinction Award:
Lee Andersen, owner of Havelock Electric in Lincoln. Beginning in July of 2011, Anderson exceeded his net monthly income goal by 28% by September of the same year. With affordable rates and a no job is too small attitude, Anderson is looking to expand and hire a part-time or apprentice. Anderson completed a year long program and was initiated as a Shriner in May 2013. Andersen is a veteran who came to have a disability from a service connected injury in the military.
Kristi Paben, owner of Ciao by Kristi in Beatrice. Paben received services from Nebraska VR to turn her love of cooking into a full-time business. Paben's "take and bake" prepared main dishes are available by order for pickup and delivery. Sales have been consistent and there is a steady growth of fans on Facebook. In addition to preparing meals for profit, Kristi donates to the Beatrice's back pack program to feed low income children.
Michael Saalfeld, owner of Saalfeld Construction and Roofing in Seward. Saalfeld Construction and Roofing has more than double profits in the second year in business. Saalfeld expanded his marketing through his website and passing out fliers door to door. Saalfeld volunteers through the Seward Chamber of Commerce and been a member of the USA Deaf Olympics - Track and Field team for four years. In 2011, he was the team captain.
The 2013 Entrepreneur of Distinction Alumni Award was presented to Jack Mann of Brady Get-N-Go in Brady. Since Mann received the 2010 Entrepreneur of Distinction Award, his business has continued to thrive. Mann was chosen in recognition of his continued success as well as his contributions to his community. Mann employes five full time employees, one employee also experiences a disability. He is active in the community and donates to the scouts, grade school, high school and local sports teams.
"It is an honor to recognize individuals who have overcome personal challenges to build successful Nebraska businesses," Nebraska Education Deputy Commissioner Scott Swisher said. "We also recognize you for your willingness to give back your community by assisting others." Swisher recognized the work of Nebraska VR staff members who work to help individuals return to work, build businesses and live independently in their communities.
"These individuals were able to take an idea for a business, and with the appropriate information and support, make their goal of self employment a reality. Their dedication and persistence is a model for others and the recognition they are receiving is well deserved," Schultz said.
The business owners were selected by the Nebraska State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) in recognition of their entrepreneurial spirit and outstanding business success. The Council is made up of individuals from across the state who have an interest in working with VR to ensure that the needs of Nebraskan's who experience a disability are being met in the most effective and efficient manner possible.
The 2013 Entrepreneur of Distinction awards highlight the successful partnership between Nebraska VR and the Abilities Fund. Nebraska VR offers individualized programs to help people with disabilities find employment consistent with their interests, priorities, strengths, talents and choices. Nebraska VR is a division of the Nebraska Department of Education.
Nebraska Department of Education Deputy Commissioner, Scott Swisher; Nebraska Economic Development Director & Commissioner of Labor, Catherine Lang; Nebraska VR Director, Mark Schultz; Program Manager, Nebraska Self Employment Services, Christine Hess.
Front Row: SRC Entrepreneur of Distinction 2013 recipients - Lee Andersen and Michael Saalfeld with the 2013 Entrepreneur of Distinction Alumni Award recipient, Jack Mann.
Lee Andersen, owner of Havelock Electric in Lincoln, receives award presented by Sue Gieschen, SRC Chairperson.
2013 SRC Chairperson Sue Gieschen presents award to Jack Mann, owner of Brady Get-N-Go.
2013 SRC Chairperson Sue Gieschen presents award to Michael Saalfeld, owner of Saalfeld Construction & Roofing in Seward.
