Spring 2019 Pledge

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WINTER 2018

nebraskafbla.org @NebraskaFBLA CMYK / .ai

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Nebraska FBLA @nebraskafbla

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CTE legislative day The Nebraska FBLA State Officer team was afforded the opportunity to collaborate with state officers from five other Nebraska Career and Technical Student Organizations (DECA, HOSA, EdRising, FCCLA, SkillsUSA) to advocate for Career and Technical Education (CTE) at the state capitol on February 19.

Prior to the event, state officers gathered in Lincoln to undergo advocacy training, where they learned how to speak with legislators, share their CTE story, and inspire action in our state’s legislature. Following training, the team was prepared to make a trip to the capitol.

After breakfast with the Commissioner of Education, a State Board of Education member, state advisers, and other prominent members in the Nebraska Department of Education, state officers observed a Nebraska legislative session in which the CTSO Presidents were honored on the floor. Attendees then enjoyed meeting personally with their state senators, touring the Nebraska State Capitol, speaking with the media, and advocating for CTE in Nebraska.

“It was really neat to be able to have a voice in the capitol building,” Vice President Drake Vorderstrasse said, “meeting with our senators alongside state officers from other organizations made this an incredible event.”

FBLA STATE ADVISERS Jacqui Giesler (Garrison) 402-471-4865 jacqui.garrison@nebraska.gov Sydney Kobza 402-471-4818 sydney.kobza@nebraska.gov

2018-19 STATE OFFICER TEAM Alek Timm, President Drake Vorderstrasse, Vice President Morgan Mills, Secretary Olivia Sis, Reporter Kirk Rangel, Treasurer Bryan Zutavern, Parliamentarian

Quick Links to spring FEATURES Timm Times A Turn with Zutavern Chapters Creating Success Rangle's Angle SLC Keynote: Holly Hoffman Drake's Take The Sis Twist

Inspiring Future Leaders Morgan's Minute Alumni Spotlight 2019-20 Officer Candidates State Officer Farewell Mountain Plains RVP Update Leaders in Action

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three steps to a memorable conference

timm times

by alek timm, president

We have officially reached my favorite time of the year. The grass is growing, the days are getting longer, and the State Leadership Conference is on the horizon. This is a time full of opportunities to meet new people, compete successfully, travel to a new part of the country, and maybe discover your hidden talent. This will be my fifth SLC and fourth NLC, so I’m excited to pass along my tips and tricks to make the most of competition season.

your personal schedule with notifications and reminders throughout the conference. This will ensure that you won’t miss a thing! We’ll keep you updated on social media when the program is available.

3. Have fun.

You’re staying in a hotel, you look sharp, you aren’t in class, and you have the chance to make thousands of new friends. Sounds great, right? The conference will be most memorable if you spend less time stressing out over your presentation or test and spend more time enjoying the opportunity to compete and be successful.

1. Get out of your comfort zone.

State and national FBLA conferences are truly a unique experience. The culture, environment, and prestige associated with these conferences are unrivaled. I encourage you to branch out and meet new people, try new things, and go where you never thought would be possible.

If you prepare ahead of time, you’ll be able to make the most of your conference. Don’t worry about what could happen; instead, get excited for what’s ahead.

You never know what these connections and experiences could do for your future. I took this advice to heart, and now I’m fortunate enough to write this corner.

FBLA competition season is my favorite time of year for a reason. Beyond the fact that I get to see many of my closest friends, it’s also a time where our state and nation can come together to participate in an incredible event.

2. Stay organized and plan your schedule.

SLC and NLC are hectic. Through competitions, workshops, campaigning, general sessions, and other conference activities, it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle.

My best advice is to go out of your way to make this SLC the best one yet, and you’ll be able to reap the benefits that come. If you don’t know where to start, you can come find me and I’ll make sure that we have one of the best times of our lives.

As we get closer to the conference, be sure to download our Guidebook program and set up

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Ne FBLA foundation a turn with zutavern

by bryan zutavern, parliamentarian

The Nebraska FBLA Foundation Trust is a vital part to our organization. The Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit volunteer trust with the purpose of assisting Nebraska FBLA. The foundation collects donations that benefit Nebraska FBLA by providing scholarships, programs for the State Leadership Conference, as well as support for the Nebraska State Leadership Conference speaker.

NEW THIS YEAR Chapters donating $500 or more will receive an extra ribbon for being Foundation VIP donors. These chapters will receive priority seating on Saturday during the Awards of Excellence Ceremony.

Your donations will help Nebraska FBLA Create, Lead and Inspire!

donate to fbla founddation

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Donations may be made to the foundation at nebraskafblafoundation.org. With a donation of $100, local chapters are eligible to submit the form for the Nebraska FBLA Foundation Trust Ribbon. Qualifying chapters will receive the ribbon at the Nebraska’s State Leadership Conference.

Click Here

reiman to sing national anthem Maddie Reiman is a junior at Auburn High School and has been an active member of her school’s FBLA chapter for three years. Last summer, she attended the National Leadership Conference and competed in Introduction to Business Communications. Her favorite things about FBLA are the opportunities to meet new people and getting to attend all of the conferences.

Apart from FBLA, she is involved in softball, cheerleading, track, speech, and NHS. In 2016 and 2017, she was selected to sing in the Nebraska NMEA All-State Choir. Singing and FBLA are two of Maddie’s biggest passions, and she is so excited to have the opportunity to combine them!

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CONGRATS OCTOBER MEMBER OF THE MONTH DUSTIN HOVANEC Blair

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Chapters Creating Success Arlington Arlington FBLA has teamed up with Two Rivers Bank to provide a Bank in School for the kids in our elementary. The students fill out their own deposit slips and give their money to the high school tellers that are members of our FBLA chapter.

Chadron During the holiday season, Chadron FBLA was active with Bell Ringing for the Salvation Army, 12 Business Day of Christmas, Cake Raffles, Chapter Christmas party and The Chamber of Commerce Annual Festival of Trees at the Dawes County Court House. This was a first for the chapter and they placed 3rd with a tree made of neckties. The theme of the tree was Taking Care of Business at Christmas.

Aurora 41 Freshman and Sophomore FBLA members visited Penner Bathing Spas in Aurora, NE on Friday, November 16. Members heard about how this local family business has grown since it started in 1980 to a national leader in their industry. We were also able to see the production facility and how a bathing spa is made from start to finish.

Crete We participated in and had a booth together at Crete's annual Pumpkin Festival.

Dundy County Stratton This year, Dundy County Stratton FBLA connected to the local floral and gift business, Seize the Daisy. By working together on the Partnership with Business project, Seize the Daisy provided FBLA members with a professional business tour, job shadow opportunities, and floral arrangement workshops.

38 Juniors and Senior FBLA members toured Hudl in Lincoln, NE on Thursday, November 29.

We learned about their global operations, saw what it's like to work at Hudl and heard from several of their team members about their roles in the company. Visiting their new facility and hearing about how they are expanding their business was eye-opening and beneficial for our members.

Elmwood-Murdock Elmwood-Murdock FBLA connected with the Lofte Community Theatre this fall by spending a day landscaping, cleaning the theater, scraping paint off an outdoor storage shed, and re-organizing props in the basement.

Bellevue East Our Partnership with Business team is working with Habitat for Humanity home store in Sarpy County. One main goal in the project is to help the beautification of the store. To achieve our goal, we were able to successfully bring over 20 chapter members to participate in the relocating, organizing, and renewing inventory for the store.

Fillmore Central The Fillmore Central Chapter of FBLA was busy this past January, but the biggest task they chose to take on was teaching elementary students about entrepreneurship at their American Enterprise Camp. Held on January 23rd, the FBLA members helped the students make pet treats and imaginary storefronts. They ended the day by bringing in local entrepreneur Val Turner and her dog Charlie to talk about her new business, “Barks And Bubbles�.

Blair Blair FBLA is partnering with Cargill this year to learn more about local job opportunities and how the company operates. This partnership has provided many excellent networking opportunities for chapter members.

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Lincoln East The Lincoln East FBLA Chapter was fortunate enough to construct a professional relationship with a local start-up. Presage Analytics, a software analytics company based here in Lincoln, Nebraska, has various food manufacturing clients all over the nation.

The company's president attended one of our chapter meetings, provided a little introduction the company, and connected with each of our members by answering any questions they might have regarding the real business world.

Raymond Central Our chapter has been raising money for the March of Dimes by selling bracelets. We sold 122 bracelets, and all of the profits will be going to the March of Dimes. We also held our annual competition with Wahoo FBLA to see who could collect the most money for the March of Dimes. The member who raised the most from each school was pied by the other chapter’s president.

We raised $243 dollars to donate to the March of Dimes in over just 2 days.

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Omaha Marian On November 12th, 13 businesspeople from the Omaha area spoke to 66 students in business classes and FBLA. The adults run businesses like eCreamery, CRISTAL’S Clothing & Accessories Boutique, Arby’s, National Vehicle LLC, TrulyU, and The Interior Design Firm. It was a wonderful opportunity for the girls to learn about owning and starting a business. Girls got to talk to each speaker in small groups to get to know how they got involved with business. The day of business was a huge success and we are very thankful for everyone making it happen!

Sandhills Members recruited, publicized and worked at the Red Cross Bloodmobile on October 24, 2018. The drive was a huge success with numbers exceeding the set goal. Everyone who came in to donate received a free T-Shirt.

Mrs. Linda Teahon, a local entrepreneur, spoke at our January chapter meeting. She is the owner of Branc's Bunk House in Dunning.

She explained how she came up with the idea and how she publicizes her business.

Syracuse Chapter members toured the Hudl headquarters in Lincoln. They learned about careers in IT, business, marketing, and sales.

Waverly The Waverly FBLA chapter helped run a blood drive for students wanting to donate.

Wilber-Clatonia On Friday, November 30th, Wilber-Clatonia FBLA partnered with Heartland Schools to raise awareness for Juvenile Diabetes. Both schools participated by wearing blue to school and to the JV/Varsity basketball games hosted at Wilber-Clatonia. The FBLA members sold glow sticks during Friday’s basketball game. W-C FBLA members also read facts about this disease in the announcements throughout the week.

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CONGRATS NOVEMBER MEMBER OF THE MONTH JOSEPH HIATT Boyd County

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slc preview rangel's angle

by kirk rangel, treasurer

The 2019 State Leadership Conference (SLC) is just around the corner. The stage is set and over 2,400 members will travel to Omaha to grow their leadership skills, sit in on engaging workshops, and compete for a chance to represent Nebraska FBLA at the 2019 National Leadership Conference. SLC will provide members with ways to Create, Lead, and Inspire not only in FBLA but as we prepare for our future.

Keynote speaker, Holly Hoffman, kicks of the conference on April 4. She will bring the energy and motivate members with her inspiring message. Adding to the energy, members will hear a two minute speech from each state officer candidate as they prepare to vote for our new leadership team.

At the closing of the opening session, competitive events, workshops, and campaigns begin. I highly encourage members to attend as many workshops as possible, as each has a different message and will add to a portfolio of skills. Find time to visit each campaign booth and learn about each candidates goals for Nebraska FBLA. The campaign area will be filled with free pencils, stickers, candy, and more from the candidates. The formal caucus will be held in the evening. At this event candidates will answer questions submitted by chapters which can help you and your chapter narrow down who to vote for.

The second day of the conference continues with more competitive events, workshops, and campaigns. The delegate assembly starts at 5:30 p.m.; here chapter voting delegates will cast their votes for the 2019-20 state officer team. Results will be announced at the end of voting and again during the second general session. A buffet dinner will be served at 5:30 pm.

The second general session recognizes all honorable mention awards. Following the second general session, the Blue Jeans for Business Leaders Dance will be held in the Nebraska Ballroom. Wear your SLC t-shirt for free admission! Admission is $2.00 otherwise.

The final day of the conference ends with Awards of Excellence program. Members placing in the top 8 will be recognized on stage while the top 3 will qualify for the 2019 National Leadership Conference in San Antonio, Texas! Concluding the conference, your state officers will pass on their duties to the newly elected officers.

SLC is an amazing experience for all members. Many memories and connections will be made at this year’s SLC. Will you rise to the occasion and “Create, Lead, and Inspire” at the 2019 SLC?

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slc keynote: powering through struggle This year, the keynote speaker for the Nebraska FBLA State Leadership Conference will be Holly Hoffman! Her appearance on Survivor is just a fragment of the intriguing saga that is her life.

Her book, Your Winner Within, highlights these ideas and how they’ve impacted her throughout her life. Her adaptable message is developed to resonate with any student and is guaranteed to make you think a little bit more about the path that you want to lead.

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Holly will be sharing with Nebraska FBLA the experience powering through struggle, and how members from across the state can use her story to overcome even the most daunting obstacles. Holly’s goal as a speaker is to help students of all backgrounds learn something new about themselves, whether it be an undiscovered passion or a locked away idea, Holly wants to kickstart people’s journeys to self-discovery!

Her optimistic speech has reached people across the nation in a multitude of environments. From healthcare organizations to business professionals, Holly has spoken to individuals of various professions and environments.

Make sure to give Holly Hoffman a warm welcome this year as she helps us Create, Lead, and Inspire at this year’s State Leadership Conference!

CONGRATS DECEMBER MEMBER OF THE MONTH FLOPATEER HABIB Waverly

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competitive event prep drake's take

by drake vorderstrasse, vice president

As SLC grows closer and closer, it becomes our responsibility to begin preparing for our competitive events. Hopefully by now you have a few events that you’re interested in and would like to begin structuring a game plan around. If not, it’s best we start from the very beginning.

Tests Test preparation is essentially just studying. Go online and look for resources like study guides and quizlets to help you get a general idea of what you need to know for a test. If you’re feeling extra studious, reach out to a previous competitor. Ask them how they prepared, and they might even give you some of their study materials. Tests can be unpredictable, but any input helps.

Choosing an Event Although at this point, it’s a tad late to be thinking about what event you should participate in this year, it’s the perfect time to begin considering what you might be interested in competing in next year. There’s various ways to look into what interests you, but asking around is the easiest way to find a fun project. Going directly to your adviser may even be the right route. If you’re draw in by a certain event, use the Nebraska and National Competitive event guides to learn more about what’s required and what the topic could entail. Even just going through the previously mentioned guides is a simple way to find an event that you may have experience in. At state, make sure to check out any open presentations in order to get a general feel for certain events.

You may even stumble across a new favorite event!

Projects Projects are very hit-or-miss with most people.

If you’re someone who has little trouble getting things done on time, and enjoys the challenge that arises when you hit a creative slump, you will love working on your project. Being creative and not procrastinating are the two essential elements of any project.

Performance Events Preparing for performance events is as simple as practicing as much as possible. The better you know your presentation, the more confident and fluid it will seem. If it’s a group presentation, practicing with improvisational material on top of your regular topic can be fantastic as you attempt to build chemistry.

Event Preparation Preparing for an event is simple once you get into the rhythm of it. The best way of getting into the ‘rhythm’ of it is through research, and not being afraid to reach out for assistance. Just Googling your event before state is going to set you a little bit ahead of the pack, so why not go even further in-depth.

There’s no need to get flustered about SLC right now. There’s plenty of time to study and more than enough help out there for you to take advantage of. Just find the strategy that’s best for you and build up from there.

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preparing for next year the sis twist

by olivia sis, reporter

FBLA members spend the entire year working towards the State Leadership Conference in April. You may ask yourself after the conference, “What comes next?” If you’re at a loss of what to do upon returning home, here are four ways to get a head start on your next year of success.

Speak with incoming freshmen or set up a booth at an activity fair.

Be sure to catch the interest of potential members by promoting the opportunities within your chapter. Introducing students to FBLA sooner gives them more time to consider joining.

Stay Active Members can get more involved with FBLA during summer. Keep your chapter active by participating in community service events or hosting special activities. Summer events encourage members to stay involved and give potential members a chance to try FBLA.

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Recruit Members

Fundraise If your chapter qualified for the National Leadership Conference, the summer is a great time to fundraise! Work concessions at a sporting event or host a car wash. Even if your chapter isn’t saving for San Antonio, cushioning your wallet will fund future activities.

Officer Training Ensure that new chapter officers are prepared to step into their roles.

Develop leadership training for chapter officers and teach how to fulfill their duties. By knowing their responsibilities, the year will run smoothly and they will grow in as leaders.

While the end of the year is bittersweet for graduating seniors, the returning FBLA members have plenty to look forward to. By taking a step toward preparing for the next year today, you will make leaps and bounds leading you to FBLA success in the future!

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CONGRATS JANUARY MEMBER OF THE MONTH SYDNEY ATKINSON Boyd County

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inspiring future leaders Adams Central Mr. Mulligan lives and breathes FBLA during all times of the year. He is constantly looking for ways develop the Adams Central chapter, while radiating an upbeat and vibrant energy.

Lincoln East Whether it be for awards, competitions, or leadership positions, Mrs. Anderson-Stowe is always supportive of our pursuits; with her encouraging voice, she pushes us to reach our full potential.

Arlington Our adviser helped put together our yearly Winter Dance by doing things like helping get stereo systems ready, concessions filled with drinks, and getting chaperones for the dance.

Raymond Central Mr. Marsh has inspired future leaders in our chapter for 42 years. His dedication to chapter members is unmatched.

Bellevue East Our advisor Andrew Werner participated in the chapter volunteer opportunity at Habitat for Humanity, showing his leadership skills, dedication and personal involvement for the chapter.

Sandhills Celeste Rogers is in her 41st year as our adviser! Mrs. Rogers keeps us on track with our projects and is our biggest supporter in our other activities!

Crete Jennifer Coe has enabled our members to reach their highest levels of success by pushing them and helping us complete BAA, CSA, and Quality Members award.

Wilber-Clatonia Our chapter adviser and business teacher, Brookelyn Trampe, always tries to include every member and encourages our chapter to work our hardest, not only in FBLA but within our lives.

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success at slc morgan's minute

by morgan mills, secretary

The 2019 State Leadership Conference (SLC) is closer than you may think. You will have a fantastic opportunity to Create, Lead, and Inspire at this conference by participating in competitions, attending educational workshops, and connecting to fellow FBLA members. As this exciting April date approaches, I want to encourage everyone to continue to study for your objective tests, practice your presentations, and create a schedule that will set you up for success.

It is not uncommon for nervousness and anxiety to approach as a speaking event nears. As the saying goes, practice makes perfect.

Practice in front of advisers, peers, and even the mirror to ensure your body language, tone of voice, and knowledge of your project is foolproof.

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Advisers have study guides for students who are driven to ace their objective tests. Don’t wait until the week before SLC to prepare for each competition. How will you prepare to make the most of your test and earn a spot on stage among the top competitors?

As you prepare for SLC, develop your itinerary for the entire conference. You should incorporate your tests, events, and workshops that spark your interest all within your personal SLC schedule. You will want to locate testing and presenting rooms so you will know where your events will take place. Look for further announcements regarding our conference app, so you will be able to have your personal schedule on you at all times.

The final part of SLC is the Awards of Excellence program on Saturday. This is the time where your hard work and dedication will pay off. Make the most of SLC by attending informative workshops, competing to the best of your ability, and networking with student from across the state. What will you do to ensure you earn time on stage?

how to dress for success at fbla

CONGRATS FEBRUARY MEMBER OF THE MONTH EMILY KRAEMER Arlington

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alumni spotlight: sehnert's success Everyone in southwest Nebraska knows there’s no substitute for Sehnert’s - and now the rest of the United States knows, too! The 2019 James Beard America’s Classic Award honored five 'mom and pop' restaurants, including Sehnert’s Bakery in McCook, Nebraska. Restaurants receiving the James Beard award are known for embodying their communities, promoting the culture of the area, and of course, the quality of their food.

Sehnert’s Bakery, which opened in 1957, is the first Nebraska restaurant to be named to the James Beard award. The business lies in the heart of McCook and serves pastries, sandwiches, soups, coffee, and smoothies, along with catering events and selling their homemade pizza crust.

Sehnert’s Bakery is also the home of the Bieroc Cafe, which hosts live music, theater, poetry readings and parties. Matt and Shelley Sehnert purchased the business from Matt’s parents in 1990; with their business’s success, it’s no surprise FBLA crossed paths with Sehnert’s Bakery.

Shelley Sehnert (née Moravec) served as the 1982-83 Nebraska FBLA State President. She participated in FBLA for four years under her adviser Bonnie Sibert at Geneva High School. With her interest in business classes and seeing her older sister involved, joining FBLA seemed like the right choice. When asked why she ran for State President, Shelley explained “I really believed in the organization and I felt I could represent the students well. I wanted to bring spirit and fun to FBLA.” As a state officer, Shelley gained confidence, networking skills, and connections with business professionals, which she continues to use today working at Sehnert’s Bakery. “The new skills catapulted me to succeed in state and national competition,” Shelley elaborated. At the 1983 National Leadership Conference, she placed second in the Future Business Leader event. Shelley credits studying, practicing for her events, as well as the support from her adviser.

In addition to working at Sehnert’s Bakery, Shelley is a math teacher at McCook High School. “Math makes the world go around, and teaching combined two of my favorite things: working with people and math,” Shelley said. She recognized her fifth-grade teacher and her FBLA adviser as influences to pursue teaching after high school.

Shelley believes the biggest impacts of FBLA include giving members experience and knowledge, bridging the learning gap by putting classroom lessons to practice, getting members involved in the community, building connections, and developing a vision for an end goal. As we approach the 2019 State Leadership Conference, Shelley imparts advice to our members: “Get your sleep ahead of time, try something new, give it your all, and achieve things you didn’t think were possible. That’s what I did, and it’s the best way to make the most of your conference.”

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2019-20 state officer candidates PRESIDENT Emma Johnson, Omaha Marian - #2 Pranav Rajan, Lincoln East - #3 Drake Vorderstrasse, Adams Central - #4 VICE PRESIDENT Kirk Rangel, Arlington - #6 Ethan Goldfish Vinson, Columbus Lakeview - #7 SECRETARY

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Kieren Feeney, Adams Central - #8 Madyson Ray, Blair - #9 Elaina Riley, Johnson-Brock - #10

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Kelsey Horton, Alliance - #5

Megan Wallman, Syracuse-Dunbar-Avoca - #11 TREASURER

SLC HIGHLIGHTS

Lauren Collins, Chadron - #12 Joseph Hiatt, Boyd County - #13

APRIL 4 Keynote address by Holly Hoffman

Zane Rikli, Elmwood-Murdock - #14 Connor Utech, Bennington - #15 REPORTER

APRIL 5 Delegate assembly, buffet dinner at 5:30 p.m. followed

by Blue Jeans Dance

Connor Nichols, Raymond Central - #16 Erin Redfern, Weeping Water - #17 Sadie Shriver, Auburn - #18 PARLIAMENTARIAN Sydnie Blanchard, Raymond Central

APRIL 6

Jaidyn Spoon, Arlington

Awards of Excellence Program

Jency Starr, McPherson County

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farewell from the officer team Throughout the past year, the Nebraska FBLA State Officer Team created new leadership qualities, led each other as a team, and found inspiration in our organization. The opportunity to grow alongside one another has been an experience we will never forget.

Our reigning president made us all want to hit the gym, as he brought a year of state officer experience with him. Alek could always answer our questions (many, many questions). He was the big brother of the group and never failed to guide us in the right direction. His sarcasm and leadership skills kept the team on its toes and at attention throughout every second we served alongside him.

From the moment we met Bryan at SLC we knew his energetic, outgoing personality would be the glue of our team. He always wowed us with his excitement and his Snapchat streaks.

Olivia leveled us up with her creativity, friendliness, and ability to take on a challenge.

She definitely has superior acting skills over the rest of the team.

‘Dapper’ Kirk is the best dressed of the group and served as the “Mom” of the boys - even tying their ties for them. Anyone who knows Kirk knows he loves McChickens and Coke. We treasured our time with Kirk because he has been deemed the “Most likely to become a CEO or millionaire”.

At the State Officer Leadership Academy, the team set out goals for the year. SOLA also served as a great bonding experience, from Kirk “breaking the ice” by spilling a pitcher of water at lunch to relying on each other to conquer the high ropes course. The team traveled to Baltimore, Maryland to attend the NLC, where we shared the joy of our top placing competitors.

The excitement continued into the fall at FLC in Kearney and Omaha, and later at NFLC in Chicago, Illinois, where we attended exciting workshops, learned from great leaders, and even visited the MarketPlace.

Morgan was the wild card of the group when she chose Dr. Pepper over Coke in the hospitality room at SOLA, but this difference did not stop her from keeping us all on task. She definitely brought the skills, the sweaters, and a positive attitude.

We would like to commend Drake, AKA the icebreaker king, for being the target of all jokes.

He took it like a champ, and never failed to return with an even better joke. Although his use of the word “klunky” brought hesitation to the team, Drake takes the cake for being voted the best roommate of the group.

As we reflect on the year, we are pleased with our accomplishments and those of Nebraska FBLA. SLC is quickly approaching and we would like thank the members and advisers that make it all worthwhile. Nebraska FBLA has shown us what it really means to Create, Lead, and Inspire.

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2nd semester recruitment

Another way to keep the recruitment momentum going is by having your members host an FBLA booth at lunches or at school functions. Your experiences are going to be the most impactful ways to pique the interest of other students. Try passing out flyers or brochures and speak to students as they pass by. As members and officers of FBLA, you all represent the organization in your daily life. Speaking about how the organization has shaped you, and about the benefits of FBLA is one of the easiest ways to recruit new members. Keep in mind that if you increase 10 members over your last years total, you get a special ribbon at the NLC. Membership Mania (recruiting 10 new members) and Membership Madness (recruiting 5 new members) are both requirements of the Business Achievement Awards as well as the FBLA Outstanding Chapter Award.

The most important thing to remember when you're out there recruiting is to be genuine about your FBLA experiences and have fun with it. Try to show your student body the fun and social aspects of FBLA also.

If you ever have any questions or need any help in your recruitment efforts don't hesitate to reach out to me or any of the other national officers. Happy recruiting!

Maddy Remington FBLA Mountain Plains Region Vice President fblampvp@fbla.org | fbla-pbl.org

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Remarkably, this time of the year can be one of the best times to recruit members. One of the most impactful things that you can do to recruit members is by promoting FBLA through FBLA-PBL week. Each day offers a new opportunity to share with others the incredible FBLA experience. I encourage each and every one of you to take advantage of this great week and share your support of FBLA-PBL with the world! You have to option to take to social media to ‘Share Your Story’ on Sunday, or you can take part in the National President’s Forum to further your knowledge of FBLA and to see what your national officers are up to, or you could even dress up for Career Awareness Day and show off your best business attire. The world is truly your oyster with FBLA-PBL week and by sharing your experiences, you can encourage others to join!

NLC SPECIAL RIBBONS MEMBERSHIP MANIA 10 new members over last year MEMBERSHIP MADNESS 5 new members over last year

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leaders in action ADAMS CENTRAL

ARLINGTON

Every year, Adams Central FBLA collaborates with the American Red Cross to put on one of the largest blood drives in the state. It is the biggest event of the year for the Adams Central chapter of FBLA. Several organizations in the Hastings community donate items to ensure the event goes smoothly. Their various generous donations such as food, drinks, and utensils ensure that each donor has an enjoyable experience while doing their good deed of the day.

Students from World Geography, World History, Economics, and Exploring Business heard from Dr. Jonna Holland and Dr. Cathy Coe, UNO professors who are part of a micro-enterprise project. Students learned about Vietnam culture and the professors’ start-up business to bring economic prosperity to the ethnic minority women in Vietnam. The project focuses on four ethnic minority groups, the Lo Lo, Money Doa, H’mong, and Nung.

Each member is required to find at least two donors for the event in order to have the opportunity to volunteer. Sign-up for the blood drive opens two weeks before the event at around 6:30 in the morning. Many members arrive an hour or two before it opens in order to secure a spot. Adams Central FBLA members have made it a challenge to see who is willing to wake up the earliest in order to sign up their donors. This tradition proves itself effective every year. The 2019 blood drive was no exception, as Adams Central collected a grand total of 118 units of blood. Just one unit could save three lives.

The created business, Mon Qua, is currently selling Christmas ornaments and zipper pouches made by the four groups of minority women.

Arlington students followed up the lesson by selling these products at a home basketball game. Participating students learned about creating a business, the production process where all four ethnic minorities work together to create a finished product, and the marketing strategies necessary to sell the products.

Students sold $859.70 with all proceeds being sent directly to the women in Vietnam. Many of the women will use the funds to send their children to school.

This year’s blood drive was very successful. We will definitely continue this tradition in the years to come.

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leaders in action communicating with a large business, and running through the screaming crowds at the community’s largest basketball game. An event that our chapter members participated in was gift wrapping for the Holiday season at Oakview Mall. At this event members were able to raise money and spread the awareness of the heartwarming changes that would come with every donation. The East vs. West basketball game is one of our community’s most anticipated event of the school year. Our members found this to be a perfect opportunity to gain more money for our peer’s wish. With all the money made so far, we are about ready to tell this student that their wish is coming true. This impact would not have happened if it wasn’t for the amazing and easy going personalities and leadership skills of our chapter members, also known as our Leaders.

AURORA

On the week of November 10th, over 60 Aurora FBLA members worked together to make Rudolph’s for a community service project. 100 Ruldoph’s were made and members went to two local nursing homes Westfield Quality Care and Memorial Community Care. Members then hung these Ruldoph’s on the resident’s doors.

BELLEVUE EAST

BLAIR

As the years go on, so do our major chapter projects. One project that we give a lot of focus on is Community Service. Our Community Service Project is working with Make a Wish to make one of our classmates wishes come to life.

While the student would like be remain unnamed, it doesn’t stop our leaders from making achievements.

This year the Blair FBLA Chapter has created multiple activities to encourage civic engagement in our school and community. To start the school year, we hosted a Community Hero event at a home football games to honor local veterans, firefighters, police, rescue squad volunteers, as well as city and county employees.

All received free admission to the game, and we invited local veterans to display our nation’s

Our chapter members have really shined throughout this project by planning events, 17

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leaders in action colors and had the Blair Mayor lead the stadium in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance before the game started. This was an excellent way to show the school’s respect for the people who have served this country and recognize local leaders of our community.

Voice of Democracy and Patriots Pen delivered their essays. This year, those in attendance had the opportunity to hear the school’s very own World Geography teacher and veteran, Mark Bottom present about his days in the army.

Veterans present during the program were recognized and honored with a moment of silence.

In addition, every month we have interviewed an active member of Blair’s volunteers and civic employees. These interviews were published in our local newspaper and our chapter’s web site. We hosted a Veterans Day Assembly and reception, helped with the community Veterans Day event, and sent thank you letters to local civic leaders during FBLA Week. Overall, this project has been an amazing opportunity to be able to put a face to the names of the people who have spent their lives giving back to our community. It has also helped members recognize the importance of being involved in their local community.

High school choir students performed under the direction of director Mr. Randy Hayes, and elementary music teacher Ms. Jodie Liess directed second and fourth graders. During the program, students Stephen Johnson and Delaney Krutsinger played Echo Taps coordinated by band director Mrs. Agnes Strand. After the program, FBLA students assisted veterans and their spouses with a special lunch.

COLUMBUS

Pictured are local leaders who were introduced before the football game started on Community Hero Night.

CHASE COUNTY

One of Columbus High School FBLA’s service projects was tying fleece blankets for the Center for Survivors. We spent several hours as a club buying, cutting, and tying fleece to make 35 blankets.

We enlisted help from other students at our school, which gave us a chance introduce FBLA to othe students. Everyone involved in the project understood the importance and had the opportunity to make a difference in others’ lives.

On November 12, Chase County Schools FBLA held their annual Veteran’s Day Program for kindergarten through twelfth-grade students.

Members emceed the event and winners of the 18

leaders in action Together we delivered these to the local Center for Survivors. These blankets were given to support victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. This was a wonderful volunteer activity that took time and made a difference for the lives of citizens in need in our community.

DUNDY COUNTY STRATTON

CRETE

Throughout the school year, Dundy County Stratton FBLA members paid a monthly visit to the Benkelman Elementary first grade class for their Reading to the Elementary project. For an hour, members sit with the children as they read their library books aloud. Members help children with difficult words and engage them in the plot of their stories to spark their imagination. FBLA members and first graders alike look forward to the monthly visits and the positive impact they leave.

Over 200 children got the chance to visit Santa on December 1 at Crete High School for the annual Breakfast with Santa sponsored by Crete FBLA and the Crete Chamber of Commerce.

FBLA members helped set up and decorate before the event, took pictures, served breakfast, and organized Christmas crafts. In addition to Santa’s visit, the event included Story Time by the Crete Public Library, a bake sale & raffle organized by the Crete Area Medical Center Auxiliary, and Children’s Gift Shop organized by Beta Sigma Phi.

The Reading to the Elementary project is an expansion on Dundy County Stratton FBLA’s Community Service Project, where they host the Summer Reading Program at the library. The project is designed to increase youth literacy skills in the community. By visiting the firstgrade class, the children become comfortable with reading independently and interacting with the FBLA members, thus encouraging them to continue reading and take part in DCS FBLA’s other literacy programs.

Because of the generosity of the community, Crete FBLA is able to donate the proceeds of the freewill donation to the Crete Backpack Program.

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leaders in action GRETNA

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Our March of Dimes mission was to bring people together across school-wide organizations, accrue currency, and raise awareness for premature babies. It all started with a solid foundational plan, and our project began by planning an event. We knew that in order for people to come, we had to get the word out by all means necessary. This included lunch room announcements on the TV, morning announcements, as well as daily announcements that are emailed to parents and students. In order for our FBLA chapter to impact March of Dimes to the fullest extent, we decided on bowling at a local fun center due to its convenience and proximity to our students. In order to have a fun and exciting way to raise money, we had all members bring their dimes and nickels. Members would donate a dime for every strike, and a nickel for every spare.

All in all, the fun center and FBLA crossover fun night was a huge success as we had over thirty people in attendance. Our FBLA chapter put together a tremendous effort in order to bring support to a cause we care deeply about, and together we raised nearly a hundred dollars in just one night. Our FBLA chapter is truly honored to be able to have worked for such a worthy cause.

Jessica Swanson was the first student at Gretna High School to complete all 4 levels of the BAA’s.

Her hard work encouraged our FBLA members to do the same. This year GHS has 3 students who completed all 4 levels and 1 more student working on the 4th (America) level!

All of these award winners are also officers for the Gretna FBLA chapter. Gabe Stolinski, Serena Wilson, and Anthony Zaner all completed the America Level and Ashleigh Feyerabend is working on her America level with hopes to complete it this year. It just shows that hard work and motivation are contagious. The students all felt the 4th level was the most in depth. Gabe stated during an interview, “The hardest part of completing the BAA was the fourth level because there were lots of presentations and papers to write.” GHS is proud of our BAA achievers this year! We hope to continue a tradition of completing BAA’s in the future.

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leaders in action The Committee envisioned a project that would be able to teach our chapter members the importance of keeping our school and city environments clean, while simultaneously providing the students with an experiential learning project where they could apply their newfound motivation to keep their environments clean.

LAKEVIEW Volunteers from our local chapter and community joined together on November 13th to form care packages for local troops who will not be able to attend Christmas with their families.

Goods and miscellaneous items were collected to fill these joyful packages. People from around the community submitted addresses for friends, families, and neighbors, who would be in need of these packages. In addition to helping package these items, Lakeview students raised $103 to purchase supplies for it.

The Committee finalized the project to consist of multiple FBLA member teams initially learn about the importance of keeping trash outside of environments, then go out into Lincoln East’s neighboring park and pick up trash.

LINCOLN EAST

The students found great value in this activity, as they were finally exposed to the amounts of litter surrounding our beautiful school. Moreover, the students developed a sense of nationalism which motivated many to continue brainstorming ways to make an impact within their community/ school or even at a much larger scale.

LITCHFIELD The Litchfield FBLA and FFA organized a community food drive from October 29 through November 2nd. A goal of 500 items and 500 pounds was set by the FBLA group to collect for the drive. In order to be able to reach the lofty goal, all Pre-K –12 and staff collected goods for an all school class competition. Each day had a different theme of items to bring to get a variety of goods. On Halloween, FBLA and FFA members went trick-or-treating for pantry goods in Mason City, Hazard, and Litchfield. Fourteen students spent several hours going house to house to add to the amount collected through classroom donations.

The Lincoln East FBLA Chapter is continuously on the lookout for ways to impact their community and school.

In September, the Chapter successfully implemented a Go-Green project with the goal of bettering Lincoln East’s surrounding environment. Lincoln East High School is surrounded by a beautiful park. However, our Community Service Committee noticed that certain areas of our aesthetic park were littered with trash.

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leaders in action of 539 items. In total, the chapter collected 693 items. This was the first year the chapter has put on this event. The event was successful for the chapter and they are planning on doing it again next year.

RAYMOND CENTRAL

Our chapter has been assisting the People’s City Mission with many projects over the last year. We sent 28 members to assist the Mission with different projects, such as inventorying, organizing, and helping distribute gifts for the Mission’s annual gift distribution. We also sent 8 members to serve lunch on January 10th, and again on January 30th.

After all the items were collected, the total items collected came to 604 weighing 712 lbs. The items collected will be donated to the local backpack program, local churches, food baskets for the Manor residents, and Custer and Sherman County Food Pantries.

SAINT PAUL

PLEASANTON On November 13th, members of the Pleasanton High School FBLA Chapter participated in a canned food roundup. The members decided to make a competition out of it, to see how many cans each team could round up. The teams were given an hour to go door to door asking for donations of canned goods. At the end of the hour, the winning team had collected a total 22

leaders in action St. Paul Public School FBLA members Jade Behring and MyKenna Sorgenfrei mailed 14 care packages to soldiers in Afghanistan as part of their Holidays for our Heroes community project.

Thank you to everyone who donated supplies and food and to all of our members who helped organize and mail off packages.

The winners of the Mummy Wrapping contest each received a special prize. At the end of the party all participants received a free pumpkin and twistable monster. A good time was had by all and many favorable comments were given as the parents and kids departed for the area Trunk or Treat.

SANDHILLS

The Sandhills FBLA held a very successful Red Cross Blood Drive on January 14, 2019. Planning began in late December and continued as soon as we returned from Christmas break. Members voluneered as phone recruiters, publicity, cookies, escorts, and registers. The Nebraska Cattlemen--Sandhills Affiliate were also contacted. They have partnered with the FBLA for the past two years and provide a beef lunch for all potential donors.

In addition, Amanda Koubek, the Blood Services chairman presented the Half Pint Hero Program to the elementary students. They were asked to recruit a potential donor for the blood drive. Their efforts brought in ten potential donors!

The committee members met on Saturday, October 27 to set up and decorate for the Halloween Party. New games were added and spooky guests were set up to welcome the party goers.

On the day of the drive, members set up the library and lecture hall to get it ready for the blood drive. Four high school FBLA members volunteered to donate blood. It’s difficult for high school students to donate during sports season, so this was greatly appreciated. Several of the high school teachers also took time out of their day and donated.

The Halsey Elementary Gym was the place to be if you wanted to meet a unicorn, zombies, superheroes, Frankenstein, Dracula, witches, the Ghostbusters, and a T-Rex, just to name a few! On October 28, the Sandhills FBLA annual Halloween Party brought all these characters together! The activities included monster twister, giant jenga, ring toss, bowling, darts, kerplunk, plinko, jack-o-lantern bean bag toss, vampire corn hole, golf, pin the nose on the monster, limbo, dancing, arts and crafts, a mummy wrapping contest and a cake walk.

The blood mobile was a big success as we topped out goal by 11 units. This was much appreciated since many of the draws had been cancelled due to bad weather or illness.

We are looking forward to our April blood mobile!

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leaders in action to make sure all the gifts were wrapped and ready to go. “I could not believe the outpouring generosity of the students here at Seward High” declared Joseph Krause, local FBLA vice president. “This project exemplifies all the good in people in Seward and that people of all ages really do care about others! Thank you Seward High and Seward Community!”

SEWARD

SYRACUSE Under the guidance and leadership of the Seward FBLA project chairs, sophomores Anna Hughes and Emma Kuss, the SHS Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) sponsored a toy drive this past December to collect gifts and toys for local CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) children in the greater Seward area.

This is the 3rd year for Seward FBLA to participate in this project that assists our local CASA around the holiday. This year, a variety of FBLA members actively participated in asking for donations.

Syracuse FBLA held a Gold Out in honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness month at a home softball game on September 13 and a volleyball game on September 24 in memory of their friend Addison Hestermann.

Students from Seward FBLA created a tree for FBLA adviser Wade Miller’s classroom. The tree included ornaments that had information on each CASA child, including the ages and the gender of each CASA sponsored child. As a result, over 38 gifts were collected, specifically addressing at least one gift for each childinvolved with the CASA program.

They raised $1244 from a split-the-pot fundraiser, donations and gold t-shirt sales. The t-shirts were designed by FBLA members Megan Wallman and Kendall Meyer. The split-the-pot money winners donated their money back for the cause. Over 200 t-shirts were sold and worn to the games. The volleyball team wore the gold shirts for warm-ups, and the softball team wore them as game shirts.

The FBLA appealed to the students at Seward High, and as a result, individual students and families decided to sponsor CASA children.

Once the gifts were collected, sophomore FBLA member Abigail Bundy along with juniors Gemma Seevers and Isaac Rolf led the effort

The money was donated to the Pediatric Cancer Action Network. The organization’s mission is to 24

leaders in action reduce the financial burden placed on families diagnosed with pediatric cancer and to advocate for a cure through awareness, education and action in and around Nebraska.

WILBER-CLATONIA

WAVERLY

On Saturday, November 17th, Wilber-Clatonia FBLA hosted their 5th annual dodgeball tournament in the high school gym. The dodgeball tournament was open to the community, and all entry costs were donated to The March of Dimes. The March of Dimes is a “charitable organization committed to preventing birth defects and infant death.”

The Waverly FBLA held its annual blood drive on November 5th. Students had several days prior to the event to sign up for donation. The blood band arrived at Waverly High School at 8 am, and stayed until about 2:00 pm. Throughout the day, FBLA members lead the event by escorting students from their classes. In just less than a day they collected 52 units of blood from 61 donors. Donors received a cookie and juice after they donated. Needless to say, the blood drive was a major success.

Saturday, November 17th was also Prematurity Awareness Day. The tournament raised $125 for premature babies. On Friday, November 16th, W-C FBLA sponsored a “Color Your School Purple Day” to support the March of Dimes.

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plan to join pbl FBLA and PBL are two parts to one cohesive Career and Technical Student Organization. Both divisions have the same founding principles and have the same goals for all members: Service, Education, and Progress. PBL is just a continuation and advancement of these concepts designed for the college student instead of high school and middle school.

All post secondary majors should consider continuing their involvement in the FBLA-PBL organization because it will enhance career readiness and provide valuable opportunities throughout their college career.

If your college does not have a PBL chapter, a Virtual Chapter is available for students. Click the link below to email PBL and get more information.

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JACQUI GIESLER Nebraska FBLA Adviser jacqui.garrison@nebraska.gov

SYDNEY KOBZA Nebraska FBLA Adviser sydney.kobza@nebraska.gov

The Nebraska Department of Education recognizes the value of Career & Technical Student Organizations in the personal and professional development of career education students through Nebraska Career Education. Per Nebraska Statute 79-772 to 79-775, the Nebraska Department of Education provides financial and administrative support for state leadership and administration of the Center for Student Leadership and Expanded Learning.

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It is the policy of Nebraska FBLA not to discriminate on the basis of gender, handicap, race, color, religion, marital status, age or national or ethnic origin in its education programs, membership policies, or other administered programs.

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