Bev Israelson knew she wanted to work with people for their visual needs after being employed with her brother-in-law, Dr. Gary Pedersen, from Grand Island Optical. She felt it was a field where you never quit learning and when she had the opportunity to buy The Spec Shoppe 13 years ago from Rodger Delebarre, she knew it was the right fit for her. Rodger built the business on his great talent and knowledge of the optical business and she loved the personal feel he had with his patients and Bev has worked hard to win her patients’ trust and loyalty. The Spec Shoppe always uses top of the line products and, with their long-time experience, they ensure their patients have the best care possible.
Tell us a little about your family. – I was raised in a very close family. My parents had five children in three years: two sets of twins and one in between. My poor parents! We all grew up close and had lots of fun. My twin sister is still my best friend. Together my husband Bill and I have five wonderful children. They are now grown and married and we have been blessed with five (soon to be six) grandchildren.
What do you see as the biggest turning point in your life? – Moving to Lincoln from a small community.
What is your favorite thing to do when you have some time off? – I enjoy spending time with my friends and family. I spend a lot of time outdoors in the yard, or golfing and biking with my husband! We get our grandkids as much as we can. That is the BEST!
What is the most unique or interesting thing most people don’t know about you? – I am an avid scuba diver. My favorite place is the ocean. I wish everyone could see and experience the beauty that the ocean hides in the beautiful blue water!
What are you the most proud of? – I am so proud of my children. They are such wonderful and successful adults. Then, of course, our grandchildren are the cutest and smartest ever!!!!
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – If it is worth doing it is worth doing good!
What is the one goal you’d most like to accomplish? – Live my life to the fullest and when I leave I regret nothing!
What is your greatest talent you have that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? – I used to do a lot of painting. I enjoy art but don’t seem to find the time to sit and start a project. It’s never too late to start again!
What is the talent you’d most like to have? – I wish I could sing. My husband has a great voice and I can’t carry a tune!
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? – I wish I was less sensitive. I take things too personal.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – The Dot by Peter Reynolds
What is your favorite movie? – Anne of Green Gables is a long time family favorite!
What is your favorite Lincoln restaurant? – For a dinner meal I love The Oven and for lunch, Jimmy Johns!
If you could have dinner with one person from the past or present, who would it be? – My grandmother Cecila Frame. I would love to eat with her at her kitchen table and listen to her stories.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – Visit specshopp.weebly.com or e-mail me at: bevisraelson@aol.com