FIVE NEBRASKA BUSINESSES OWNERS RECEIVE
2014 ENTREPRENEUR OF DISTINCTION AWARDS
Five Nebraska business owners who received assistance from Nebraska VR were recognized for their success.
The following three business owners received the 2014 Entrepreneur of Distinction Award:
Dan Hromas, owner of Prairie Pride Poultry, York. Hromas started his business in May 2013 with a mission to provide healthy, farm fresh eggs to consumers. Prairie Pride Poultry’s growing business uses free range standards and practices to cultivate an environment where “happy hens lay healthy eggs”. Hromas, a US Marine Corps Veteran and active member of the York Chamber of Commerce, donates eggs to many local events. Hromas plans to double his production in 2015.
Lee Krumm, owner of Midwest Auto Salvage, Lincoln. Since March 2012, Krumm has more than doubled profits in his second year of business. With a strong social media presence and online footprint, Krumm is looking to expand his business to sell parts in the near future. In addition to salvaging cars for profit, Krumm has donated a percentage of the value of cars in the past months to the Down’s Syndrome Association.
Charlene Potter, owner of Rosewood Environmental Art, Omaha. Since Spring 2010, Potter has worked tirelessly to turn her passion for art into a successful business. Potter uses social media to share information about her art during the creative process and once the pieces are complete. In 2012, she turned a profit due in part to the addition of teaching art classes to her group and individual art shows. Potter volunteers and teaches art through Art in the Park for Kids and the South Sudan Community Association.
The 2014 Entrepreneur of Distinction Alumni Award was presented this year to two recipients. Each recipient was chosen because of their continued success and contributions to their communities.
Nathan Chandler, owner of 40 Nights Photography, Lincoln. Chandler received the 2010 Entrepreneur of Distinction Award and continues to grow his business. Changing the way he pursued work and finding other competitive advantages shifted Chandler’s opportunities to more lucrative commercial photography. Chandler uses a newsletter and an award system to generate referrals through previous clients. Chandler volunteers services at retirement communities in Omaha.
Jessica Goeden, owner of Healthy Paws, Norfolk. Since Goeden received the 2012 Entrepreneur of Distinction Award, she has relocated her business and continued to grow. Healthy Paws employs four and she plans to expand her business in the future to include dog day care. Goeden is a Norfolk Chamber of Commerce member and is involved in many community events in downtown Norfolk.
"It is an honor to recognize individuals who have overcome personal challenges to build successful Nebraska businesses," Nebraska Education Commissioner Matt Blomstedt said. "We also recognize you for your willingness to give back to your community by assisting others." Blomstedt 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," Mark Schultz, Nebraska VR Director 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 Nebraska VR to ensure that the needs of Nebraskans who experience a disability are being met in the most effective and efficient manner possible.
The 2014 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.
