[Iabs-talk] Fwd: ICBV Office Update June 9, 2015
Denise Avant
davant1958 at gmail.com
Sat Jun 13 11:47:15 UTC 2015
Denise R. Avant
President, National Federation Of The Blind Of Illinois
Live the life you want
> Begin forwarded message:
>
> From: Illinois Committee of Blind Vendors <icbv at sbcglobal.net>
> Subject: ICBV Office Update June 9, 2015
> Date: June 9, 2015 at 8:23:48 PM CDT
> To: Illinois Committee of Blind Vendors <icbv at sbcglobal.net>
> Reply-To: Illinois Committee of Blind Vendors <icbv at sbcglobal.net>
>
> ICBV Office Update
> June 9, 2015
>
> <applewebdata://032F1630-1796-4C21-A501-FC5A7BB1FBEE> <applewebdata://032F1630-1796-4C21-A501-FC5A7BB1FBEE>
> *1) Calendar of Events <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
> *2) Illinois Coalition Against Beverage Taxes <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
> Related News – Vermont Soda Excise Tax <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
> *3) Administration Initiates Management Steps to Prepare for Madigan-Cullerton Budget <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
> *4) Dysfunctional Customer Experiences Risk Billions in Retail Losses <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
> *5) From Hadley School for the Blind <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
> Purchasing and Financing a Home <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
> NFB Newsline <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
> Spring Into Braille Reading <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
> *6) Eyes on Success Composing and Performing Music <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
> *7) National Association of Blind Merchants Emerging Leaders Program <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
> *8) 2015 NFB 75th Anniversary Convention Agenda <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
> *9) Legislators Question Calorie Disclosure Rules <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
> *10) NAMA Fit Pick Product List Link <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
> *11) Re-Imagine the Machine <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
> *12) RSA Buying Group Information <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
>
> <applewebdata://032F1630-1796-4C21-A501-FC5A7BB1FBEE>**1 Calendar of Events
> June 11, 2015 3:00 PM EDT / 2:00 PM CDT
> NFBEI - Hadley School for the Blind Randolph-Sheppard on the Web
> Webinar Title: Healthier Vending: Using Fit Pick as a Tool to Get There
> This webinar will focus on the National Automatic Merchandising Association's (NAMA) Fit Pick Program. What is Fit Pick? How does it work? How can I use it in my business? How do I market it? Are there practical suggestions to help me better serve my customers who want healthier options? These are just some of the questions this webinar will explore.
>
> Join Randolph-Sheppard on the Web as Colleen Wunderlich, Director, Hadley Forsythe Center for Employment and Entrepreneurship, leads a panel discussion which will feature presentations by two NAMA representatives. Roni Moore, NAMA Vice President for Marketing and Public Relations, will explain the Fit Pick Program and how to market it. Mark Stein, a member of NAMA’s Nutrition Leadership Committee and a successful vending operator will present on how he has successfully integrated Fit Pick into his business in the Chicago area.
>
> Please register for this webinar at http://hadley.edu/FCE-BizTalk.asp <http://hadley.edu/FCE-BizTalk.asp>
>
> Also as information, there is a Hadley app for the IOS products that people can download to listen on their phone. If you go to the Hadley homepage, and go to http://www.hadley.edu/SeminarsAtHadley.asp <http://www.hadley.edu/SeminarsAtHadley.asp> , there is a link for a mobile app. That would help people who may not have access to a PC. Folks can also download the MP3 file after the webinar is posted. That won’t help them participate live, but they can at least listen to the discussion after the fact.
>
> July 5 – 10, 2015 National Federation of the Blind Convention
> The 2015 convention of the National Federation of the Blind will take place in Orlando, Florida, at the Rosen Centre Hotel at 9840 International Drive, Orlando, Florida 32819. Make your room reservation as soon as possible with the Rosen Centre staff only. Call (800) 204-7234.
>
> For more information about registering for the convention, and the hotel, go to www.nfb.org <http://www.nfb.org/> .
>
> On July 8, just prior to the first general session of our seventy-fifth anniversary convention, the National Federation of the Blind will attempt to break the Guinness World Record for largest umbrella mosaic. If you plan to be part of this historic effort, please register to participate at https://www.nfb.org/gwr <https://www.nfb.org/gwr> . Your registration will help us maintain an accurate count of participants and will also ensure that you receive important information before and after the record attempt, including information on how you can receive your very own Guinness World Record certificate of participation in setting a new world record! Registration only takes a minute or two, so just click the link above or copy and paste it into your browser, provide the requested information, and you’re all set! See you in Orlando for our record-breaking seventy-fifth anniversary convention!
>
>
> Christopher S. Danielsen, J.D.
> Director of Public Relations
> National Federation of the Blind
>
> July 21 – 22, 2015 NAMA Invites You to the First Annual Washington, DC Fly-In Advocate with your Members of Congress. The NAMA Fly-In invites ALL industry members to attend and make your voice heard on Capitol Hill through meetings with your Senators and Representatives. NABM President Nicky Gacos is requesting that as many blind entrepreneurs as possible would consider on attending. Illinois Vendors please contact Ed Birmingham if you would like more information on this.
>
> NAMA Hails Response By Partners For Government Relations 'Fly-In' -
> CHICAGO -- The National Automatic Merchandising Association reports that its first annual industrywide advocacy event, scheduled for Washington, DC, on July 20 and 21, is receiving enthusiastic support from its membership. The upcoming event has received the support of 27 sponsors so far, according to NAMA senior vice-president of government affairs Eric Dell. "The excitement surrounding our sponsorship program just keeps building," he reported. "Our government affairs team is gratified to see the 'buy-in' to our grassroots advocacy program across all membership categories." Registration for the event has risen to 160 operators, suppliers, machine manufacturers, distributors and brokers in a balanced mix, he amplified. "These sponsorships are providing us with the opportunity to make enhancements in technology and professionalism to the Fly-In's agenda, taking it from a 'top-level' to 'a must-attend' event," he explained. Current sponsors include 365 Retail Markets; AdvancePierre; Atnip Co.; Avanti Markets; Burdette Beckmann; Black Tie Vending; Coca-Cola Refreshments; Company Kitchen; Crane Payment Innovations; Dr Pepper Snapple Group; DeMitri Chesapeake Sales; Dole Packaged Foods; DS Services; Five Star Food Service; G&J Marketing; Lightspeed Automation; Mars Chocolate North America; Mrs. Freshley's; the National Association of Blind Merchants; PepsiCo; Premier Broker Partners; Quality Brokerage; Royal Cup Coffee; RSA Buying Group; U-Select-It; Vend Natural Holdings; and Vistar. Baltimore's Black Tie Vending is among the DC Fly-In breakfast sponsors. "Nothing is more important for our industry at this time," said Black Tie president Scott Meskin. NAMA Takes the Hill 2015 is designed to bring vending and refreshment services industry members to Washington to meet with their legislators and stress the importance of the industry to each congressional district. The goal is to make vending's presence known on Capitol Hill, and to educate elected officials about the industry. Firsthand reports from industry leaders about the positive impact their operations have on their districts are a very effective means for accomplishing this, Dell emphasized. Anyone wishing to participate in the inaugural advocacy event is encouraged to register at https://www.signup4.net/public/ap.aspx?EID=NAMA12E&OID=50 <https://www.signup4.net/public/ap.aspx?EID=NAMA12E&OID=50> .
>
> October 30 – 31, 2015 National Federation of the Blind of Illinois State Conference
> From Denise Avant: You can register at the Naperville Marriott Hotel for our State convention, October 30-November 1, 2015. The rate for the NFBI block is $93.00. It has come to my attention that some may be getting a $94.00 per night. The latter is not correct. If there are problems, please let myself or Patti Chang know.
>
> Return to Top <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
>
> <applewebdata://032F1630-1796-4C21-A501-FC5A7BB1FBEE>**2 Shared by me, for the Illinois Coalition Against Beverage Taxes
> There is a note below from the Illinois Coalition Against Beverage Taxes. They want everyone to follow this link and send a letter asking us to say that we are against the proposed beverage tax. This will affect everyone, please follow the link and then share it with as many others as you can and ask them to do the same. This tax will be detrimental to our businesses.
>
> http://clicktracking.gractions.com/?qs=bG5UKwSaveiaF%2bSAbJw6EfE7thE3Avdq%2fLmMHJIsUBVw8LnwZgCq%2bxsXTorLBYVlW5LQ1XiTOMHPHRyfl8EoidZ1wt3AzHSCS7f8Lj4QG%2bxm6TOirFmO5GyIpGhVX636tJgUJJXc8z2qnq0rKunKAEoIeTIyLB5PseWxeVi%2fziHWRw4reDpsp73w7PLcAQxHZiT1aEWFO%2bq6eDki8b72zbDJxDhlmDbpB7E7bA92DPy5APJWQEKBlNABK%2bkex03P <http://clicktracking.gractions.com/?qs=bG5UKwSaveiaF%2bSAbJw6EfE7thE3Avdq%2fLmMHJIsUBVw8LnwZgCq%2bxsXTorLBYVlW5LQ1XiTOMHPHRyfl8EoidZ1wt3AzHSCS7f8Lj4QG%2bxm6TOirFmO5GyIpGhVX636tJgUJJXc8z2qnq0rKunKAEoIeTIyLB5PseWxeVi%2fziHWRw4reDpsp73w7PLcAQxHZiT1aEWFO%2bq6eDki8b72zbDJxDhlmDbpB7E7bA92DPy5APJWQEKBlNABK%2bkex03P>
>
> After you register it will take you to a second page, where at the top there is a box that says contact your lawmaker, click on that. The page will automatically fill in your specific representatives, all you have to do is go to the bottom of the page and click on send letter. After that it will either come up as thank you your letter has been sent or one more page will come up saying additional information is needed, when mine did this it then came up with no additional information needed click continue - I clicked continue and another page came up stating that my message had been sent.
>
> Dear Friend,
> It seems like every time you turn around, some politician is proposing a new tax on Illinois families.
>
> In case you missed it, lawmakers in Springfield are once again pitching the idea of a tax at the checkout aisle. This time it’s a penny per-ounce tax on beverages like soft drinks, sports drinks juice drinks, and teas.
>
> It’s a tax that would increase the price of some products by 72%!
> You can help stop the proposed tax on beverages:
>
> Visit NoIlBeverageTax.com <http://clicktracking.gractions.com/?qs=bG5UKwSavejjY34XU8qgHf4vmnO5HJefgW8%2fi2c1eZ%2fMoQz34%2b8aC51dj7yMGlDgW5LQ1XiTOMHPHRyfl8EoidZ1wt3AzHSCS7f8Lj4QG%2bxm6TOirFmO5GyIpGhVX636tJgUJJXc8z2qnq0rKunKAEoIeTIyLB5PseWxeVi%2fziHWRw4reDpsp73w7PLcAQxHZiT1aEWFO%2bq6eDki8b72zbDJxDhlmDbpB7E7bA92DPy5APJWQEKBlNABK%2bkex03P> today and send a message to lawmakers saying you are against a new tax at the grocery store. <http://clicktracking.gractions.com/?qs=bG5UKwSaveiaF%2bSAbJw6EfE7thE3Avdq%2fLmMHJIsUBVw8LnwZgCq%2bxsXTorLBYVlW5LQ1XiTOMHPHRyfl8EoidZ1wt3AzHSCS7f8Lj4QG%2bxm6TOirFmO5GyIpGhVX636tJgUJJXc8z2qnq0rKunKAEoIeTIyLB5PseWxeVi%2fziHWRw4reDpsp73w7PLcAQxHZiT1aEWFO%2bq6eDki8b72zbDJxDhlmDbpB7E7bA92DPy5APJWQEKBlNABK%2bkex03P>
>
> Don’t delay: Make your voice heard today and encourage your friends and family to take action as well!
>
> With your help, we can keep grocery prices from rising.
> Thanks for taking a stand to stop this costly tax!
>
> Sincerely,
> Illinois Coalition Against Beverage Taxes
>
> Related News:
> From Vending Market Watch –
> Vermont Advocates Push For Soda Excise Tax Jun 4, 2015
> http://www.vendingmarketwatch.com/news/12080703/vermont-advocates-push-for-soda-excise-tax?utm_source=VMW+Today&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=AUTM150529002 <http://www.vendingmarketwatch.com/news/12080703/vermont-advocates-push-for-soda-excise-tax?utm_source=VMW+Today&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=AUTM150529002>
>
> Return to Top <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
>
> <applewebdata://032F1630-1796-4C21-A501-FC5A7BB1FBEE>**3 Shared by Cullen & Associates
> Office of the Governor
> Bruce Rauner
> For Immediate Release
> Tuesday, June 02, 2015
> Contact Catherine Kelly
> Catherine.Kelly at illinois.gov <mailto:Catherine.Kelly at illinois.gov>
> Administration Initiates Management Steps to Prepare for Madigan-Cullerton Budget
> Initial Steps to Save ~$400 Million
> Suspends EDGE Tax Credits
> Additional Actions Being Prepared
>
> SPRINGFIELD – House Speaker Mike Madigan, Senate President John Cullerton and their caucuses passed a budget for the 2016 fiscal year beginning July 1 that is nearly $4 billion in the hole.
>
> This latest broken Madigan-Cullerton budget comes on the heels of a Fiscal Year 2015 Madigan-Cullerton budget that was more than $1.5 billion out-of-balance when it was passed.
>
> Since taking office, Governor Rauner has worked diligently to eliminate the inherited $1.5 billion budget deficit without raising taxes, and the state is now projected to end the year with a balanced budget.
>
> With the upcoming Madigan-Cullerton budget deficit more than double that of last year, a mid-year solution is not a possibility this time. The Administration must immediately begin taking steps to manage state spending.
>
> While the Administration is committed to managing the Madigan-Cullerton budget responsibly, because their budget includes no reforms, the options available to the Administration are limited.
>
> “Speaker Madigan, President Cullerton and the politicians they control refuse to act responsibly and reform state government,” Rauner Spokesman Lance Trover said. “It is time they come to the table with Governor Rauner to turnaround Illinois.”
>
> Outlined below are steps the Administration is initiating today in order to begin balancing the phony Madigan-Cullerton budget. Many additional steps will be announced as they are finalized.
>
> Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
> Effective Immediately
> Immediate suspension of all future incentive offers to companies for business attraction and retention.
> This includes EDGE Tax Credits, Large Business Attraction Grants, Employer Training Investment Program Incentive Grants and Prime Sites Grants.
> Will defer application approvals for film tax credits and High Impact Business designations.
> All commitments previously made in any of these programs will be honored.
>
> Action Initiated
> Prepare and provide notice for the July 1 suspension of the State Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (SLIHEAP).
> The federal portion of the program, funded at about $170 million, will continue.
>
> Department of Transportation
> Effective Immediately
> In light of the state's current fiscal crisis and a lack of sufficient capital resources, the Illiana Expressway will not move forward at this time. As a result, the Illinois Department of Transportation will remove the project from its current multi-year plan. It is the determination of IDOT that the project costs exceed currently available resources. The Department will begin the process of suspending all existing project contracts and procurements.
>
> Action Initiated
> Beginning July 1, the Department will “ground” all state plane passenger service. Planes will be maintained and available for emergency services.
>
> Department of Juvenile Justice
> Action Initiated
> Begin the process of identifying one or two juvenile correctional facilities for closure.
> Juvenile system has a surplus of capacity
> Capacity at approximately 1,200 beds, with less than 700 occupied.
>
> Department of Corrections
> Action Initiated
> Begin the process of closing the Hardin County Work Camp
> Approximately 180 inmates will be moved
> Approximately 60 Work Camp staff affected
>
> Department of Healthcare and Family Services
> Action Initiated
> Implement an audit review of nursing home reimbursements to ensure payments comply with recently implemented new rate structure.
> Recover overpayments to nursing homes and implement financial penalties for improper billings.
>
> Illinois State Police
> Action Initiated
> Immediately freeze all vehicle purchases.
>
> Department on Aging
> Action Initiated
> File emergency rules to enact means testing to Aging’s Community Care Program. No income limit currently exists.
> Increase the Determination of Need (DON) Score required to obtain services through Aging’s Community Care Program
>
> Department of Human Services
> Action Initiated
> DHS will pursue cost control strategies through emergency rules to the Childcare Program:
> Increase copays for parents using the program; and
> Freeze intake and create waiting lists.
> DHS will also begin background checks for relatives providing child care. Background checks are currently required for child care licensed centers, group homes and non-relatives who provide care.
>
> Department of Natural Resources
> Action Initiated
> The Department will not award Open Space Land Acquisition Development Grants in FY16.
> The Department will begin the process to suspend operations and close the five state museums to visitors. The state will continue to maintain and secure the museums to protect the artifacts and exhibits.
>
> Return to Top <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
>
> <applewebdata://032F1630-1796-4C21-A501-FC5A7BB1FBEE>**4 From GMA Smart Brief –
> Dysfunctional Customer Experiences Risk Billions in Retail Losses: Survey New data from Loyalty One, Verde Group June 2, 2015
> More than eight in 10 shoppers don’t give retailers the chance to fix a poor customer experience, says a new study.
>
> Approximately half of 2,500 U.S. consumers polled in March reported experiencing a problem on their last shopping trip, according to a collaborative survey of dysfunctional retail touchpoints by LoyaltyOne and Verde Group with Professor of Marketing and Psychology, Dr. Deborah Small, at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
>
> Of those polled customers, 81 percent decided not to contact the retailer about the issue. Among these silent shoppers, 32 percent said they were unlikely to recommend the retailer to friends and family, putting these shoppers at-risk of decreasing their spending with the retailer.
>
> By comparison, the study shows that shoppers who did notify retailers of their poor experience and had their problem completely resolved were 84 percent less likely than silent shoppers to be at risk of decreasing their spending.
>
> Grocery retailers are putting 11 percent of potential revenue at risk, according to the research. Mass merchandisers top the list of retail channels with 25 percent of potential revenue at risk, followed by apparel (16 percent), department stores (15 percent) and drugstores (12 percent).
>
> “The results are a resounding confirmation that poor customer experiences have a considerable negative impact on shopper spend and attrition which can run into the billions,” says Dennis Armbruster, LoyaltyOne Consulting VP and managing partner. “We’re ushering in a new era of customer experience measurement vital to retailers looking to make even more informed decisions.”
>
> “Our methodology precisely measures the impact of ineffective customer touch points. Insight around the effects of poor customer touch points can help retailers reduce the risk of negative customer experiences, while also enabling them to proactively design experiences that positively influence spend, visit frequency and basket size,” says Paula Courtney, president of Verde Group.
>
> - See more at: http://www.progressivegrocer.com/research-data/dysfunctional-customer-experiences-risk-billions-retail-losses-survey#sthash.lrSfjAvZ.dpuf <http://www.progressivegrocer.com/research-data/dysfunctional-customer-experiences-risk-billions-retail-losses-survey#sthash.lrSfjAvZ.dpuf>
>
> Return to Top <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
>
> <applewebdata://032F1630-1796-4C21-A501-FC5A7BB1FBEE>**5 Hadley School for the Blind
> <applewebdata://032F1630-1796-4C21-A501-FC5A7BB1FBEE>Seminars at Hadley Presents: Purchasing and Financing a Home
> Date: Wednesday, June 10, 2015
> Time: 10:00 AM CDT, 15:00 GMT
> Purchasing a home and obtaining financing can create a lot of anxiety. However, understanding the process can alleviate the stress. Would you like to learn about some of the key factors to consider when selecting and financing a home?
>
> Join Seminars at Hadley as Steve Beres, a blinded veteran and banking professional, shares his personal and professional insights on the entire home buying process. Larry Muffett, a member of Hadley’s Seminars team, will moderate this 60-minute seminar. A question and answer session will be included as part of the seminar.
> This seminar is an audio presentation. Space in this seminar is limited. Please only register if you are available to attend so that others are not closed out. Register for Purchasing and Financing a Home on June 10 <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=16457095&msgid=786783&act=3JPY&c=225701&destination=http%3A%2F%2Fhadley.edu%2FSeminarDetails.asp%3Fsid%3D278>.
>
> <applewebdata://032F1630-1796-4C21-A501-FC5A7BB1FBEE>Seminars at Hadley Presents: NFB Newsline
> Date: Wednesday, June 17, 2015
> Time: 1:00 PM CDT, 18:00 GMT
> Save the date for this seminar on the National Federation of the Blind's (NFB) Newsline. Details and registration coming soon!
> <applewebdata://032F1630-1796-4C21-A501-FC5A7BB1FBEE>
> Spring Into Braille Reading: It's Time to Submit Your Reading Logs
> The Spring into Braille Reading program ended May 31. Submit your completed reading log <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=16457095&msgid=786783&act=3JPY&c=225701&destination=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hadley.edu%2Fbraille_reading_contest_mylog.asp>if you haven’t already done so. The due date is June 15. If you’ve forgotten your Username or Password, or need assistance with the log, contact Debbie Siegel at springintobraille at hadley.edu. The random prize drawing will be held on July 1, and winners will be notified by telephone or email. All participants will be mailed a Certificate of Participation in July.
>
> Learn more and subscribe to Seminars at Hadley Podcasts. <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=16457095&msgid=786783&act=3JPY&c=225701&destination=http%3A%2F%2Fhadley.edu%2FPodcasts.asp>
>
> Return to Top <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
>
> <applewebdata://032F1630-1796-4C21-A501-FC5A7BB1FBEE>**6 Shared by blindtlk – Eyes on Success
> 1523 Composing and Performing Music (Jun. 3, 2015)
> Rachel Flowers is a talented young blind musician. Hosts Peter and Nancy Torpey speak with her and her mother, Jeanie Flowers, about how Rachel learned to play the myriad of instruments she?s mastered including participating in a marching band. Rachel also talks about how she currently performs, composes, arranges, and shares music with others.
>
> The audio and show notes for this episode can be found at:
> www.EyesOnSuccess.net <http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/>
>
> If you don't want to miss future episodes you can also subscribe to the podcast using iTunes or the URL:
> www.EyesOnSuccess.net/eos_podcast <http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/eos_podcast>
>
> Try the Search feature on the web site to quickly and easily find shows of interest in the archive of over 200 episodes!
>
> You can also sign up to receive weekly announcements of upcoming episodes by sending an e-mail to:
> EyesOnSuccess+Subscribe at GoogleGroups.com <mailto:Subscribe at GoogleGroups.com>
>
> If, in addition, you want to join an e-mail forum where you can post and share your thoughts about what you've heard on the show, send an e-mail to: EOS_Discuss+Subscribe at GoogleGroups.com <mailto:Subscribe at GoogleGroups.com>
>
> Return to Top <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
>
> <applewebdata://032F1630-1796-4C21-A501-FC5A7BB1FBEE>**7 From Terry Smith, NFBEI
> NATIONAL ASSOCIAITION OF BLIND MERCHANTS EMERGING LEADERS PROGRAM
> Who will be the Randolph-Sheppard leaders of tomorrow? Who will step up and help preserve the Program for future generations of blind people? Where are our future advocates? Where are the blind entrepreneurs who will set the example and find creative solutions to new challenges the next quarter century?
>
> Leadership takes on many shapes and sizes. We need solid leadership on the state level as well as nationally. We need strong Elected Committees of Blind Vendors. Having capable blind people who can effectively advocate for themselves and the program is critical whether it be with government administrators or elected officials. The consumer groups also need effective leadership.
>
> It is no secret that the Randolph-Sheppard population is aging and so is its leadership. It’s also no secret that the community has not done an effective job of developing the next generation of leaders. The National Association of Blind Merchants and the National Federation of the Blind’s Entrepreneurs Initiative plan on remedying that problem with our Emerging Leaders Program.
>
> NABM President Nicky Gacos is making the Emerging Leaders Program a top priority because he believes in the future of the Randolph-Sheppard Program. He understands that tomorrow’s program will not look like today’s program but he wants blind people deciding what tomorrow’s program will look like. The Emerging Leaders Program will help develop our future leaders.
>
> NABM is seeking people who meet the following criteria:
> 1. Is a licensed Randolph-Sheppard vendor
> 2. Possesses the desire to serve in a leadership capacity for the next decade and beyond
> 3. Has a reputation as a quality business owner
> 4. Has a history of being a positive influence
> 5. Commits to devoting the time required to participate in this program, which will include some travel.
>
> The Emerging Leaders Program will include:
> 1. A two-day on-site training in the fall of 2015 at a yet to be determined location
> 2. Quarterly conference calls that will focus on leadership development and relevant issues impacting blind entrepreneurs nationally
> 3. Special sessions at future BLAST conferences or at other times as might be determined
>
> The current vision is to conduct training for new leaders on an annual basis. Each class will have approximately one dozen participants. The alumni of all previous classes will participate on the quarterly conference calls and at the special sessions held in conjunction with BLAST.
>
> One question that we can anticipate is who will pay for travel to the on-site training? Based upon the availability of funds and the ability to get corporate sponsorships, NABM may consider financial assistance to the extent practical. The individual participant will be responsible for securing funding not covered by NABM if necessary. NABM will encourage state licensing agencies to sponsor participants. Training of this nature can be paid for with set aside and federal VR dollars as well as rest stop dollars.
>
> In order to participate in the Emerging Leaders Program, you do not have to be a member of NABM or the NFB. We welcome candidates who are not members. However, this is clearly an NABM/NFB Initiative and persons who have biases against either would not be good candidates for this program.
>
> If you are interested in applying to be part of the Emerging Leaders Program, please visit www.blindmerchants.org <http://www.blindmerchants.org/> where you can fill out and submit the application on-line or complete the attached application and email it to Terry Smith at tsmith at nfb.org <mailto:tsmith at nfb.org>. If you have questions about the program, you can contact either Ed Birmingham who President Gacos has appointed to lead this initiative at 708-334-3243 or ebirm18 at wowway.com <mailto:ebirm18 at wowway.com>. Also, feel free to call Nicky Gacos at 201-653-1777 or nickycolorado at netscape.net <mailto:nickycolorado at netscape.net> or Terry Smith at 865-599-7148 or tsmith at nfb.org <mailto:tsmith at nfb.org>.
>
> Return to Top <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
>
> <applewebdata://032F1630-1796-4C21-A501-FC5A7BB1FBEE>**8 Shared by David Andrews, NFB
> 2015 NFB 75th Anniversary Convention Agenda can be found at:
> https://nfb.org/convention <https://nfb.org/convention>
>
> Return to Top <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
>
> <applewebdata://032F1630-1796-4C21-A501-FC5A7BB1FBEE>**9 From Vending Market Watch
> Legislators Question Calorie Disclosure Rules Jun 5, 2015
> Both Republican and Democrat legislators are questioning menu-labeling rules as they relate to calorie disclosure, reports The Hill. The current Food and Drug Administration (FDA) rule was cited as “cookie cutter” and at least one representative believes restaurants should be regulated differently than other retailers such as convenience stores and grocery stores.
>
> The FDA made a final rule about how calories need to be displayed for vending operators owning more than 20 machines in late 2014. Any change in the law would likely affect the vending industry in addition to other food retailers.
>
> Return to Top <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
>
> <applewebdata://032F1630-1796-4C21-A501-FC5A7BB1FBEE>**10 From NAMA Fit Pick – link to product list - note that when I clicked on the link below my security asked if I was sure I wanted to open it. I can assure you I checked the link and yes it is safe. This looks like it is a PDF in an Excel format. Let me know how accessible it is. We can always provide feedback if it needs work.
> http://www.fitpick.org/nwc/wp-content/uploads/2015FitPickProductList.pdf <http://www.fitpick.org/nwc/wp-content/uploads/2015FitPickProductList.pdf>
>
> Here is the link to the main Fit Pick page too:
> http://www.fitpick.org/nwc/fitpick-downloads/ <http://www.fitpick.org/nwc/fitpick-downloads/>
>
> Return to Top <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
>
> <applewebdata://032F1630-1796-4C21-A501-FC5A7BB1FBEE>**11 From Vending Market Watch
> Re-Imagine The Machine by Adrienne Zimmer On May 11, 2015
> The vending machine is not what it was ten years ago. Changing consumer retail experiences have challenged vending equipment manufacturers to create a total consumer experience at the machine that includes more flexibility, customization, digital advertising and multiple payment methods.
>
> Operators are increasingly seeing the need for “connected” machines that enable them to manage new aspects of their business — promotions, advertising and merchandising — remotely. All with an emphasis on their return on investment. Now, more than ever, the machine is transitioning from a static black box and becoming a retail destination.
>
> Integrated approach
> New and retrofitted machines can help grow same store sales and grab locations from competitors. In order to show that differentiation, vending manufacturers have been creating machines with total integration. “Integrated to us is about ensuring an intuitive and simple experience from both a consumer and operator perspective,” said Tom Glomski, vice president of sales & marketing at Crane Merchandising Systems. “In regard to our newest Media equipment, which encompasses snack, cold beverage and hot beverage machines, this means driving new consumers to vending and increasing the value of the average vend ticket through the use of new features like touchscreens, lighting, and professional graphics; integrated payment that includes cashless; shopping cart; and digital product advertising,” he said.
>
> Digital advertising is an additional and important revenue generator for operators. It allows advertisers to gain impressions and is one thing that should be considered when purchasing or retrofitting machines. “The operator’s location can get eight minutes every hour on diji-touch® (15 second increments) to advertise their product or their venue, and we’ve found that to be a success for operators,” said Frank Guzzone, business developing manager, strategy & innovation at Mondelez International. He noted that at least in one instance, the main reason diji-touch ® was able to win a California location was because the venue could advertise their events on the machine.
>
> “However, the operator doesn’t have the time or skillset to be selling advertising, to create engaging promotions, to create content, no matter how big or how small, they need a helping hand when it comes to advertising on the machine,” Guzzone said, which is where diji-touch® is able to help as it offers a platform for vendors to create their own digital advertising.
>
> Technology that drives growth
> Within the last five years, the addition of various forms of cashless acceptance has increased dramatically, and that includes at the vending machine. It’s no longer just a trend, but a necessity. Pepi Companies in Dothan, AL, has installed cashless devices on 100 percent of machines since 2012. “In order to create a great consumer experience, new equipment needs to provide bright lights, access through multiple payment systems, screens that inform and promote and mobile connections that connect personally,” said Vic Pemberton, Pepi Companies CEO.
>
> Although cashless technology has been around the vending machine for years, the adoption rate within the last 12 to 24 months has accelerated at an unprecedented rate. “Operators want to accommodate how their customers interact with the machines, pay for their merchandise and view the vending industry as a whole. Screens, credit card readers and cashless devices play a big role in getting this accomplished,” said Stephanie Begley, director of marketing at Vendors Exchange International, Inc.Cashless not only gives operators the ability to sell higher ticket items and in return, drive a higher margin, but it also alleviates some price sensitivity the consumer might have.
>
> So what’s driving this cashless trend? Consumers. “Retail drives consumer preferences to pay at the vending machine,” said Jim Chico, vice president of global sales & marketing at U-Select-It. “Trends are wrapped up in technology, in digital. The machines today are more versatile than they were ten years ago and not only is cashless growing, but so is the demand for loyalty promotions at the machine.”
>
> Consumers will also drive mobile payment acceptance at the machine. “It’s imperative that you offer the mobile option to your customers,” said Maeve McKenna Duska, vice president of marketing at USA Technologies. “This growth curve that is mobile will continue to increase over the next few years. Anyone who has made the investment into cashless will benefit.”
>
> Angela Olson, marketing manager at Seaga Manufacturing, Inc. notes that her operators are showing more interest in new types of payment such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet, “As long as they provide a benefit to them, either in greater sales or easier operation,” she said.
>
> Although cashless and mobile are growing payment options in the industry, Chuck Reed, senior director of sales & marketing operations at Crane Payment Innovations, cautions operators not to abandon cash. “A recent Boston Federal Reserve study confirmed that across all consumer age demographics, 65 percent of consumers still use cash as the preferred method for purchases under $10 in value,” Reed said. “Vending shouldn’t limit payment to cash or cashless, but instead cash AND cashless.”
>
> The connected machine
> Cashless acceptance requires a machine to be connected, something that is picking up speed in transforming the machine. “Once connected, a vending machine is much more than an isolated ‘retail outlet,’” said Reed. “It is now part of an ecosystem that can deliver cashless acceptance, digital advertising, price or bundled promotions, and new revenue streams for operators selling targeted advertising at their machines. That same connection can enhance operational performance by providing machine alarms, remote monitoring via DEX of sales performance and enabling dynamic route scheduling that increases operating efficiency by as much as 25 percent.”
>
> Connectivity also allows operators to take advantage of additional revenue through digital advertising. “The presence of a screen is only the first requirement for digital advertising. The machine must also be connected to enable seamless content management over the air and to deliver required “proof of play” data to the advertisers. Being able to update them easily has been the biggest breakthrough in the last year, and it’s going to be important in terms of going forward with everything from a digital perspective,” said Brendan Kehoe, vice president and general manager at Crane Streamware.
>
> “We see the vending marketplace having a significant increase in connected devices in the future because understanding and utilizing real time information about the machines increases efficiency and profitability,” Begley continued.
>
> All of this — the integrated, connected machine, cashless options, advertising, etc. — does no good to the operator, however, unless he or she is able to attract consumers and see a return on investment.
>
> Sound investment
> Affordability is the key when purchasing new equipment or retrofitting used equipment. Many operators ask ‘Will I see a return on investment? If so, how quickly?’ Not only are operators concerned with investments, they are also concerned with investing in a technology that might just become a “fad” and dissipate with time. “Technology for technology’s sake isn’t going to cut it. It has to make them a return on investment,” said Glomski. “So what we focused on was really that same store sales growth because that is the fundamental issue our entire industry faces. We have to drive new consumers to vending.”
>
> Tom Murn, CEO at The Answer Group in New York, NY, believes that it takes a little money to get a lot back. For Murn, investing in technology, especially consumer media interaction at the machine, has helped him see a quick return on investment. “All equipment manufacturers are doing great things, in their own way,” he said. “There are many options, all at a price point for any size operation. It’s important for operators to remember that selling the higher ticket items and spending more up front will get you more in return.”
>
> One solution that has worked for Pepi has been retrofitting old machines. “We are taking the basic vending machine and turning it into a retail store, and I’m seeing a return on investment quickly,” said Pemberton. “The prices for retrofitting equipment haven’t risen significantly and the cost to create a retail type experience is worth the additional investment.” Pemberton notes that Pepi will not stop purchasing new machines; it just comes down to the right location. “New machines have a place, and we’ll continue to buy them where it makes sense and where we can get a return,” he said.
>
> Future-proofing machines
> There is no such thing as “future-proofing” a machine. It is possible, however, to monitor consumer trends and see changes in their retail shopping experience. Machines of today, and those that will meet the needs of the future, allow for digital advertising and multiple types of payments. They draw the consumer in with bright lights, customization and the ability to vend non-traditional items. They also engage the consumer in a total interactive experience that looks far different from the vending experience of ten years ago.
>
> “Semi-attended or unattended engagement at self-checkout lanes, airline check-in kiosks, train ticket kiosks, etc. are now so common place they are preferred by customers,” said Reed. “Providing that same interactive experience at a vending machine with touchscreens and connectivity is fast becoming the new normal.”
>
> To read what interviewees have to say about the future of vending, click here: http://www.vendingmarketwatch.com/article/12076349/what-does-the-future-look-like <http://www.vendingmarketwatch.com/article/12076349/what-does-the-future-look-like>
>
> Return to Top <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx>
>
> <applewebdata://032F1630-1796-4C21-A501-FC5A7BB1FBEE>**12 RSA Buying Group News
> Frito-Lay Q215 News Item - Please remember that you are required to purchase at least one case of the Frito-Lay News Item before the end of 2nd Quarter which is June 30th. The 2nd Quarter News Item is the Doritos Dinamita Chille Limon 1.75 oz 48 count.
>
> Important note from Kathy - Each Vendor needs to do their part, we have one month left of the quarter, have you bought your Doritos Dinamita Chille Limon yet?
>
> If you have ordered the single case of Doritos Dinamita and it was not delivered due to your distributor not having it in stock, please email or fax your invoice as proof of attempt of purchase so we can insure that you get your Frito-Lay Rebates for 2nd Qtr.
>
> PurchasePower Deal!!
> Smucker’s / Folgers!!
> Be Sure to Take advantage of the Smucker’s / Folgers
> June 1st – July 3rd, 2015 Deal on Purchase/Power
> Extra rebate on the following:
> Folgers Special Roast Regular
> Folgers Classic Roast Regular Filter Pack
> Folgers Classic Roast Decaf Filter Pack
> Folgers Classic Roast Regular Vacket
> Folgers Classic Roast Decaf Vacket
> Folgers Classic Roast Regular Filter Pack
> Folgers Classic Roast Regular Vacket
> Folgers Special Roast Regular
> Folgers Gourmet Supreme
> Folgers 100% Colombian Regular
> Millstone Colombian Supremo
> Millstone Foglifter
> Café Bustelo 2 oz Frac Pack
> Folgers Signature Blend
> Folgers Special Reserve
> Folgers 100% Colombian
> FGS 100% Colombian Pods
> FGS Decaf 100% Colombian Pods
> Sugar In The Raw
> Sweet'N Low
> Stevia In The
> JIF To GO Creamy Peanut Butter
> Jif To GO Chocolate Silk Peanut Butter
>
> New RSA/USG Supplier Information – Check with your distributor to see if they are available to you:
>
> New Supplier!!
> Beanito’s
> Introductory Purchase Power Deal of $2.00 per case Rebate
> June 1st through August 31st 2015!!
> Then $1.00 per case after that!!
> Rebates paid Quarterly!
>
> New Program Lucy's Cookies!! Lucy's products are allergy friendly as they are made without gluten/wheat, dairy milk, butter, eggs, casein, peanuts, or tree nuts. In addition all items are NonGMO Project Verified, certified vegan, and Kosher Par eve. Available in the following flavors: Chocolate Chip, Cinnamon Thin, Ginger Snap, Brownie Crisp. The Rebate is $1.15 per case, paid quarterly. This program began June 1st, 2015.
>
> Announcing another great Supplier on Purchase Power!!
> I Heart Keenwah!!
> $2.00 per case rebate on Purchase Power.
>
> I heart Keenwah Quinoa Clusters!!
> Quinoa Clusters are crunchy little bite-sized squares of goodness. They use light sweeteners to hold the quinoa seeds, puffs, and flakes together with simple nuts and fruits.
>
> I heart Keenwah Quinoa puffs!!
> A healthy cheese puff made with quinoa and packed with 5 grams of protein, and comes in four refined flavors.
>
> Rebate paid quarterly.
> Program began June 1st and runs indefinitely.
>
> Return to Top <file:///G:/Office%20Update/ICBV%20Office%20Update%2006_09_15.docx> <applewebdata://032F1630-1796-4C21-A501-FC5A7BB1FBEE>
>
> Thank you,
> Kathy Ungaro (630)234-4444
>
> Illinois Committee of Blind Vendors
> 53 W. Jackson Blvd. Suite 502
> Chicago, IL 60604
> (312)663-3007
>
>
> This message (including attachments) is privileged and confidential. If you are not the intended recipient, please delete it without further distribution and reply to the sender that you have received the message in error.
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