[Iabs-talk] {Spam?} FW: ICBV Office Update February 2, 2017
denise avant
davant1958 at gmail.com
Thu Feb 2 21:54:21 UTC 2017
From: Kathy Ungaro [mailto:icbv at sbcglobal.net]
Sent: Thursday, February 2, 2017 3:51 PM
To: Kathy Ungaro <icbv at sbcglobal.net>
Subject: ICBV Office Update February 2, 2017
ICBV Office Update
February 2, 2017
*1) Calendar of Events
*2) Tom Cullen Session Update
*3) IAMC Legislative Report
*4) Senate Democrats Introduce $1 Trillion Infrastructure Plan
*5) Be My Eyes – Helping Blind See
*6) Mobile App Supporting Civil Rights of Service Dog Users
*7) This Week on Eyes on Success
Guide to Accessibility of iOS Devices
Theater Breaking Through Barriers
*8) Hadley Institute for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Winter edition of Connection Newsletter
Creative Writing: Blending the Creative with the Practical
Celebrating the 100th Birthday of the National Parks
February is Low Vision Awareness Month
Hadley Courses, Delivered Your Way
*9) Staff Announcement; Quinetta Wade Acting Director of DRS
*10) Vending Industry Advocated to Shape Compliance Requirements for Cook County’s Sugary Beverage Tax
*11) Looking Ahead: Industry Urged to Continue Compliance with Calorie Disclosure Rule
*12) Getting Started in Micro Markets
*13) RSA Management Group Information
**1 Calendar of Events
April 18-21. 2016
NAMA and NFBEI/RSA Training in Vegas
>From Terry Smith, NFBEI - Mark your calendars now! The NFBEI and the RSA Management Group will be conducting a half-day training for Randolph-Sheppard stakeholders in conjunction with the NAMA One Show in Las Vegas April 18-21. The One Show is an amazing 3-day event that includes educational seminars, high profile keynote speakers, and the largest exhibit hall in the industry with literally hundreds of companies showing cutting edge equipment and new vend products. The RSA training will be from noon to 5:00 PM on Tuesday, April 18th.
See the following RSA agenda for their training session on Tuesday April 18, 2017 from 2-5 pm the day before the NAMA show in Vegas starts. Exact location to follow.
Topics will include:
Tips on how to increase your rebates
Latest vending technology
Showcase of new vending equipment available
Showcase of new micro market equipment and technology
Additional NAMA info:
Former First Lady Laura Bush To Keynote NAMA's OneShow 2017
SAVE THE DATE:
September 12-15, 2017
NABM BLAST 2017
Nashville Airport Marriott Hotel
Tradeshow September 13th
Mark Your Calendars Now!!!!
Visit <http://www.blindmerchants.org/> www.blindmerchants.org for more information as it becomes available. For more information, contact Nicky Gacos at <mailto:nickycolorado at netscape.net> nickycolorado at netscape.net or call him at (908) 464-5359 or contact Terry Smith at <mailto:terrysmith at epbfi.com> terrysmith at epbfi.com or 865-599-7148.
**2 From Tom Cullen January 25, 2017 Session Update
Governor Rauner was upbeat and positive in presenting his third State of the State Address to the Illinois General Assembly today. He touted his Administration’s accomplishments of the last year and called for bi-partisan cooperation and a spirit of respect moving forward to bring resolution to the State’s budget stalemate. Acknowledging there is still a lot of work to be done, Rauner stated that all parties have a moral obligation to bring about change, and together, can return Illinois to a place of hope, opportunity, and prosperity.
The Governor noted some of his successes in the areas of ethics reform, increased education funding, job creation, criminal justice reforms, and government efficiency. In terms of the future of the State, Rauner spoke in broad terms, calling for policy changes without offering specific details. He pledged further advances in criminal justice reform, job growth, and economic opportunity. In reference to Illinois’ budget crisis, Rauner said “let’s get it done,” calling for a bipartisan solution to decades of irresponsible borrowing and deficit spending. He also called for improving Illinois’ transportation system and creating a public-private partnership to build a new, managed lane on I-55 paid for by private investors. Rauner also wants to create an Illinois-based technology and innovation center that will rival Silicon Valley and help our research universities expand their efforts in research and innovation. He renewed his call for the passage of constitutional amendments governing term limits and “fair” legislative district maps, as well as economic reforms, such as changing the worker’s compensation system. In acknowledging the violence that plagues the City of Chicago, Rauner called for a comprehensive approach for change, utilizing joint policies and efforts from the local, state and federal governments.
The Governor also praised the Illinois Senate’s efforts to develop a bi-partisan solution to the State’s budget crisis, but stopped short of endorsing the plan. The Democrat-controlled General Assembly and the Republican Governor continue to beat odds over developing a “balanced budget” that combines a spending plan with the Governor’s continued demand for economic and structural reforms. Illinois’ unpaid bills have climbed to more than $11 billion, and the unfunded pension liability has reached $130 billion. The Governor will deliver his Budget Address to the General Assembly on February 15th.
In his response to the Governor’s speech, Speaker Madigan called for all parties to focus on areas where they can agree, referring to the need of a state operating budget, which is the top priority for the House Democratic Caucus. The Speaker also noted that all parties can agree that Illinois must take steps to improve its business climate and create new jobs, but the House Democrats will do this without cutting wages or removing work place protections that could hurt the middle class. The House will now begin vetting proposals to create jobs that will not bring harm to middle class families.
Negotiations continue in the Illinois Senate on efforts to pass a comprehensive, bi-partisan budget and reform package. While the original intent was to pass the package to the House this week, Senate Republicans and other interests have requested changes to the bills that were filed earlier this month. Senate committees held subject matter hearings on the proposals on Tuesday, but no votes were taken. The bills then by-passed the normal committee process and are now on the Order of Third. Several amendments have been filed but not adopted, and further changes to the legislative package are likely. As the bills remain on the Senate Calendar, opposition is given time to surface as the legislation is reviewed by a broader audience. Some of the highlights of the tax bill to date include:
• Increases the income tax (individual to 4.99% and corporate to 7%).
• Creates a new opportunity tax, which is essentially a payroll tax.
• Expands the service tax to include items such as (1) storage (storage units, but also parking lots, boat slips, apartment building storage lockers), (2) amusement (athletic events and concerts, but also golf/greens fees and camp grounds), (3) repair and maintenance (typical services, but also towing and home inspections), (4) landscaping (landscaping services, but also snow plowing, installation of sprinkler systems, and planting shrubs and trees), and (5) dry cleaning services.
• Decouples from the domestic production activities deduction.
• Redefines the Illinois tax base to include the outer continental shelf.
• Repeals of the unitary business non-combination rule.
• Establishes a new tax on cable and satellite TV.
• Eliminates the corporate franchise tax.
• Removes the new soda tax that was included in an earlier version.
• Makes the research and development credit permanent.
• Redefines manufacturing to include graphic arts production in the manufacturing machinery and equipment exemption.
• Makes changes in False Claims Act schedule so cases may not be brought with respect to any taxes imposed, collected, or administered by the State of Illinois.
• Repeals the Adult Entertainment Tax, and replacing it with the amusement tax (for a revenue loss).
• Changes how pollution control facilities are assessed under the Property Tax Code.
The Senate returns to session on February 7th and hopes to consider the 13-bill package at that time. The activity of the last month in the Senate could be creating momentum to bring all parties together towards a budget solution.
The Illinois House adopted operating rules for the 100th General Assembly and created the following new standing committees:
• Business Incentives for Local Communities;
• Construction Industry and Code Enforcement;
• Cost Benefit Analysis;
• Cybersecurity, Data Analytics and IT;
• Economic Justice & Equity;
• Economic Opportunity;
• Elections and Campaign Finance;
• Fire and Emergency Services;
• Government Consolidation and Modernization;
• Government Transparency;
• Insurance: Health and Life;
• Insurance Property & Casualty;
• Mass Transit; and
• Tourism, Hospitality and Craft Industries.
The House eliminated the Economic Justice and Equity; International Trade and Commerce; Juvenile Justice and System Involved Youth; and the Small Business Empowerment and Workforce Development Committees. Attached are the House Democrat committee appointments. House Republicans are expected to finalize their appointments next week.
Governor Rauner filed administrative rules this week that follow-up on his call for strengthening pharmacy consultation procedures. The rules, designed to increase pharmacy accountability and ensure public safety, were submitted Tuesday for publication in the next Illinois Register. Under the rule changes, pharmacists must counsel patients on pertinent medication information, including potential drug interactions, and pharmacies are required to notify customers of the new counseling requirement via sign displays. Written comments on the rule changes must be submitted within 45 days of publication in the Register. The proposed rule changes are in response to a recent Chicago Tribune investigation that showed potential deficiencies in the State’s current pharmacy system that some felt could put patients at risk.
The Illinois Senate approved SB 14 (Cullerton), which makes statutory changes necessary to stabilize the Chicago Municipal and Laborer’s Pension Fund. Absent legislative changes, both funds are projected to become insolvent near the year 2025. Changes made to the pension funds by the previous General Assembly were ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court. Identical legislation was passed in January on the last day of the 99th General Assembly and is now on the Governor’s desk. Because that bill was passed during the previous General Assembly, if the Governor vetoes the bill, there will be no opportunity for an override. Therefore, SB 14 is being considered and is headed to the House.
Next week is the bill drafting deadline for both Chambers. Monday, January 30th is the drafting deadline for Senate legislation, and Friday, February 3rd is the drafting deadline for House legislation. February 10th is the deadline to file legislation in both Chambers. The Illinois Senate will reconvene Tuesday, February 7th, and the House will reconvene Wednesday, February 8th.
Key 2017 Session Dates:
January 30th – Senate LRB Deadline
February 3rd – House LRB Deadline
February 10th – Bill Introduction Deadline – both Chambers
February 15th – Governor’s Budget Address
March 17th – Deadline to pass Senate Bills out of Senate Committee
March 31st – Deadline to pass House Bills out of House Committee
April 28th – Third Reading Deadline, both Chambers
May 12th – Deadline to pass House Bills out of Senate Committee
May 19th – Deadline to pass Senate Bills out of House Committee
May 26th – Third Reading Deadline, opposite Chamber
May 31st – Adjournment Deadline
**3 From IAMC January 29, 2017
Legislative Report on the 100th General Assembly 2017 Spring Session
January 29, 2017 Prepared by BP Consultants for IAMC
The Legislative Report below includes legislation from the 2017 Spring Session of the 100th General Assembly. This report has been prepared by BP Consultants on behalf of IAMC.
We have included bills that we believe may be of interest to your organization. Please review this report carefully to see if we have included all areas of interest. If we have included legislation that is not relevant or legislation that you do not wish to track, please let me know and they will be removed. If you would like for your organization’s positions on bills to be included in the report, please send that information to me at desiharris at msn.com <mailto:desiharris at msn.com> and it will be incorporated.
The General Assembly was in session this past week with Governor Rauner presenting his State of the State Address on Wednesday, January 25th. They will not be in session this week with the Senate returning on Tuesday, February 7th and the House returning on Wednesday, February 8th.
During his State of the State Address, Governor Rauner went off script to praise Senate efforts to negotiate an end to the budget stalemate and urged them to keep at it until an agreement is reached. He said the “people of Illinois need you to succeed.” Although he spent the bulk of his speech recounting accomplishments during his first two years in office, he acknowledged “significant challenges” still facing the state, including not having a permanent budget, an $11 billion backlog of unpaid bills and a $130 billion pension debt. The Governor spoke of the need for changes that will promote job growth such as workers’ compensation reform and property tax relief. He also called again for term limits for all legislators and changing the way political maps are drawn.
In response to the Governor’s speech, Senate President Cullerton said the Senate “is well aware of the state of our state. That is why we are working together to put an end to the budget impasse and restore economic stability to Illinois.” House Speaker Madigan issued a statement that everyone agrees the state needs a permanent budget and should take steps to improve its business climate. “But House Democrats reject the idea that the only way to create jobs in Illinois is to cut wages and strip away workplace protections in order to pad the profits of big corporations,” Madigan said. “We believe we can grow our economy and create jobs without hurting middle-class families.”
The Senate held several committee hearings on their “grand package” of bipartisan bills to solve the budget stalemate. The bills were advanced to the Senate floor and several amendments have been filed to tweak the provisions. One significant change is the proposed revenue enhancements:
Removes the soda tax and replaces with a Business Opportunity Tax Act. This tax is imposed on businesses based on the size of their Illinois payroll.
Raises corporate income tax rate to 7% and personal income tax rate to 4.99%.
Extends the state sales tax to the following services: storage services, amusements (sporting events, live entertainment and athletic facilities), repair and maintenance services, landscaping services, and laundry and dry-cleaning services.
Establishes a tax on cable television services and direct broadcast satellite services.
No final Senate votes were taken on the package last week. “There’s been a lot of anticipation this week about voting on a so-called grand bargain,” said Senate Republican Leader Radogno. “Unfortunately, I don’t think we’re to the point of being able to take a vote. That is by no means a statement that we are backing off of this effort.” Instead, Radogno said, the dozen bills that make up the package are continuing to undergo revisions that she said will make the package better in the long run. “It is hard and none of us are going to like this in the end,” Radogno said. “A lot of ideas that have made this even more difficult, but will make this better in the end have come from members.” Senate President Cullerton said he was “encouraged by the progress we’ve made.” “So if we need more time to pull this together, I’m going to consider that encouraging,” he said. “The problems we face are not going to disappear. In fact, they are going to get more difficult every day.”
On Thursday Attorney General Madigan announced that she will be seeking to stop state worker pay until the General Assembly and Governor Rauner approve a spending plan. A motion filed by her office in St. Clair Circuit Court seeks to dissolve a preliminary injunction that allowed state workers to be paid during the budget impasse. Madigan asks the court to dissolve Comptroller Mendoza’s power to authorize payments to state employees on February 28th.
The Senate passed one bill this past week. SB 14 (Senator John Cullerton and Representative Currie) contains provisions aimed at preventing retirement systems for Chicago municipal workers and laborers from going broke in about a decade. An identical measure (SB 2437) was passed during the last days of the 99th General Assembly but Governor Rauner has threatened to veto it.
**4 Shared by Donnie Anderson, ICBV Chairman
Senate Democrats Introduce $1 Trillion Infrastructure Plan January 30, 2017
Senate Democrats on Jan. 24 introduced a $1 trillion infrastructure plan, laying down a marker for President Donald Trump, who pledged to introduce a massive infrastructure package during his first 100 days in office.
The plan, which is still just a political document and not in legislative form yet, includes $210 billion to repair crumbling roads and bridges, $100 billion for energy infrastructure, and reportedly would create 15 million jobs all through direct federal spending. It also includes $200 billion for “a new Vital Infrastructure Projects program that will direct major federal investments to the most critical national projects” and $20 billion in funding to “address critical infrastructure backlogs on Public Lands and in Indian country.”
Democrats have said they would pay for the infrastructure plan by closing tax loopholes, although they have not specified which ones.
NATSO continues to evaluate the proposal, but is encouraged by the absence of tax credits for private investors.
Click on this link to read full article:
http://www.natso.com/articles/articles/view/senate-democrats-introduce-1-trillion-infrastructure-plan
**5 Shared by Nicky Gacos, NABM President
Be My Eyes – Helping blind see By Be My Eyes
Description
Be the eyes for a blind person in need of help remotely through a live video connection if you are sighted or be assisted by the network of sighted users if you are blind.
Be My Eyes is all about contributing to and benefiting from small acts of kindness, so hop on board and get involved!
Blind users can request help from a sighted person and the sighted users will then be called for help. As soon as the first sighted user accepts the request for help a live audio-video connection will be set up between the two and the sighted user can tell the blind person what she sees when the blind user points his phone at something using the rear-facing camera.
As a sighted user you don't need to worry about missing a call and 'leave a blind person hanging' - you are a part of the bigger Be My Eyes helper-network and we will find the next available sighted person in the network. The challenges that the blind person needs help with can be anything from knowing the expiry date on the milk to getting help crossing the street.
Note: We encourage blind users to be patient when requesting help because we rely on real people to help you.
- Live audio-video connection between blind and sighted users
- Add the languages you know under settings
- An easy way you can make a difference for blind people
Be My Eyes Web Site https://appsto.re/us/NN-81.i
**6 Shared via NFBNet
Dear All, As many of you know, one of our most innovative programs supporting the civil rights of service dog users is our Mobile app.
This mobile app contains the text of the implementing regulations of the Americans with Disabilities Act concerning service dogs, the entire text of each state law ensuring the rights of service dog users in that state, specific guidance for industries of particular concern to service dog handlers, e.g., restaurants, hotels, taxicabs, and healthcare facilities, and information about the National Association of Guide Dog Users and the National Federation of the Blind. This app also provides users the opportunity to connect directly through the app with the NAGDU Information & Advocacy Hotline, as well as send an email message for more information. This app is provided free of charge as a public service by the National Association of Guide Dog Users.
This app was launched in September 2015. By December 31, 2015, the app had been downloaded 1,069 times. We get a weekly update of our app downloads and, on average, the app is downloaded about 20 times per week. During the week of January 9 – 15, the app was downloaded 35 times and during the week of January 16 – 22 it was downloaded 14 times. According to our analytics, as of January 22, the NAGDU Guide & Service Dog Mobil App has been downloaded 3,324 times.
If you have not downloaded this invaluable tool, you can do so by searching “NAGDU” IN THE APP STORE. We are currently updating the state law section of the app, adding Canadian laws, developing new dynamic features, such as a “share” button and utilizing GPS technology that will bring the laws of the state you are in as your first result, placing the app in the Canadian app store, and developing the app for other platforms. Watch for updates to the app in future email messages!
Fraternally yours,
Marion Gwizdala, President
National Association of Guide Dog Users Inc. (NAGDU)
National Federation of the Blind
(813) 626-2789
President at NAGDU.ORG <mailto:President at NAGDU.ORG>
**7 This Week on Eyes on Success
1705 Guide to Accessibility of iOS Devices (Jan 25, 2017)
Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Shelly Brisbin, author of the book
"iOS Access for All: The Comprehensive Guide to Accessibility for iPad,
iPhone and iPod Touch". The book is an excellent reference guide to
accessibility features in iOS devices and also gives step by step
instructions for using these features with many popular apps.
1706 Theater Breaking Through Barriers (Feb. 1, 2017)
Theater Breaking Through Barriers is an Off-Broadway theater and one of several professional theaters in the country dedicated to advancing actors and writers with disabilities and changing the image of people with disabilities from dependence to independence. Hosts Nancy and Peter Torpey talk with Nicholas Viselli, artistic director of TBTB, about their work.
The audio and show notes can be found at:
www.EyesOnSuccess.net <http://www.eyesonsuccess.net/>
**8 From Hadley Institute for the Blind and Visually Impaired Winter 2017 Welcome to Connection, a quarterly newsletter offering the latest, in-depth news and announcements of interest to Hadley students, partners and colleagues. Connection is available online and through audio at 847-784-2828.
In this Issue...
Letter from the President
Calling All Entrepreneurs: Enter the 2017
New Venture Business Competition Today!
Curriculum Corner: The Braille Curriculum at Hadley
Low Vision Focus @ Hadley Webinars Are
Finding a Receptive Audience
A Matter of Course:
Get to Know Hadley Instructor Vicky Vaughan
Hadley Celebrates White Cane Safety Day
Seminars at Hadley Moving to a New Platform
ICRE-R Visit to Hadley in December 2016
Read the complete issue online http://hadley.edu/ConnectionNewsletter.asp
or listen by calling 847-784-2828.
Seminars at Hadley Presents:
Creative Writing: Blending the Creative with the Practical
Date: Tuesday, January 31, 2017
Time: 10:00 AM CST; 16:00 GMT
Are you an aspiring writer, or just curious about the profession? Would you like to learn more about both the creative and the practical aspects of the field?
Join Seminars at Hadley as Michael Rydel, Hadley’s own Dean of Curricular Affairs and a literature instructor at Loyola University Chicago, shares his professional insights on creative writing.
Larry Muffett, a member of Hadley’s Seminars team, will moderate this 60-minute discussion. A question and answer session will be included as part of the seminar. This seminar is audio-only, and space is limited. Please register only if you know you are available to attend so that others are not closed out. Register now for Creative Writing <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=16457095&msgid=814026&act=3JPY&c=225701&destination=http%3A%2F%2Fhadley.edu%2FSeminarDetails.asp%3Fsid%3D350> !
Seminars at Hadley Presents:
Celebrating the 100th Birthday of the National Parks
Date: Wednesday, February 8, 2017
Time: 10:00 AM CST; 16:00 GMT
What an incredible treasure we have in our U.S. National Park System! There are over 400 national parks across our vast country ranging from large ones that include thousands of acres, to smaller monuments in urban areas. Today, we hope to encourage you to consider visiting a national park or maybe just read more about them.
Join Seminars at Hadley as panelists Cathy Pasinski, Judy Greene and Shari Burton talk about this wonderful travel opportunity and share their personal experiences in several national parks such as Grand Canyon, Rocky Mountain, Zion and more.
Dawn Turco, Hadley Senior Vice President and member of the Seminars at Hadley team, will moderate this 60 minute discussion. A question and answer session will be included as part of the seminar. This seminar is audio-only, and space is limited. Please register only if you know you are available to attend so that others are not closed out. Register now for National Parks <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=16457095&msgid=814026&act=3JPY&c=225701&destination=http%3A%2F%2Fhadley.edu%2FSeminarDetails.asp%3Fsid%3D351> !
February is Low Vision Awareness Month
Low vision means that even with eye glasses, contact lenses, medication or surgery, you may still have difficulty seeing well enough to complete everyday tasks. As vision loss progresses, it often becomes necessary to learn new methods to perform daily activities such as reading the mail, shopping, cooking, watching TV and paying the bills. The great news is that there are lots of techniques that can help you to manage your low vision and remain independent at home. That's what the Low Vision Focus @ Hadley program is all about. Visit LowVisionFocus.org <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=16457095&msgid=814026&act=3JPY&c=225701&destination=http%3A%2F%2Flowvisionfocus.org> to get insider tips on remaining independent with any degree of Low Vision!
Hadley Courses, Delivered Your Way
There are a number of ways you can choose to take a course with Hadley. Do you find it's easier to listen to your course on the go, or do you get more out of your lessons when you have braille at your fingertips? Different courses offer varied formats based on course content. Here are some of the ways courses are delivered:
• English Braille American Edition
• Unified English Braille
• Online Courses
• Audio CD
• Online Download
• Digital Talking Book
• Cassette
• Large Print
• Regular Print
When you choose a course, check out the media codes that follow each course number — this tells you the different ways that particular course is offered. Find a course today <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=16457095&msgid=814026&act=3JPY&c=225701&destination=http%3A%2F%2Fhadley.edu%2FFindaCourse.asp> .
Did you receive this email as a forward? Sign up here for eConnect <http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=16457095&msgid=814026&act=3JPY&c=225701&destination=http%3A%2F%2Fhadley.edu%2FeNewsletter.asp> .
**9 Shared by John Gordon, Bureau Chief- BBS
Subject: Staff Announcement from Secretary Dimas
I am pleased to announce Quinetta Wade has been named the new Acting Director for the Division of Rehabilitation Services. Quinetta brings 18 years of experience with IDHS to the position. Quinetta will oversee the IDHS Division of Rehabilitation Services which partners with people with disabilities and their families to assist them in making informed choices to achieve full community participation through employment, education, and independent living opportunities.
She brings a wealth of experience to the position, having served most recently as Deputy Director for DRS responsible for the Bureau of Disability Determination Services. In this role she earned the 2016 Social Security Administration Commissioner's Award for Disability Program Leadership in recognition of her exceptional leadership and dedication to the disability program in Illinois. She began her career with the division in 1999 and has held multiple positions throughout her tenure with the agency.
She also serves on the Springfield Disability Commission which is charged with educating the public on issues concerning people with disabilities, monitoring accessibility of public and private facilities, and advocating for increased opportunities for people with disabilities in the areas of education, employment, housing, health, transportation, recreation and social and cultural programs through legislative, financial and other appropriate means.
Prior to state service, Quinetta served the United States in the United States Army Reserve for 6 years. She is a graduate of the University of Illinois at Springfield.
I am confident that Quinetta not only has the knowledge and ability to build upon the great work already being done with rehabilitation services in Illinois, but also the vision that will further improve outcomes for Illinois residents with disabilities for years to come. Please join me in congratulating Quinetta Wade as she takes on her new role as Acting Director for the Division of Rehabilitation Services.
Sincerely,
James T. Dimas
Secretary
Illinois Department of Human Services
**10 From Vending Times Vending Industry Advocates To Shape Compliance Requirements For Cook County's Sugary Beverage Tax
Issue Date: Vol. 57, No. 2, February 2017, Posted On: 1/26/2017
CHICAGO -- Illinois Automatic Merchandising Council leaders, along with National Automatic Merchandising Association legislative director Sheree Edwards, are continuing to advocate for the vending industry to help shape compliance requirements for Cook County's tax on sweetened beverages. The tax goes into effect July 1.
The second of two hearings on the issue will take place on Friday, Jan. 27 and NAMA representatives and IAMC leaders are scheduled to attend.
Leading the effort are Craig Hesch, AH Management (Rolling Meadows, IL); Linda Furlano of A.H. Management, treasurer and vice-president of the Illinois Automatic Merchandising Council; Donnie Anderson of Donny Boy Vending (Bedford Park, IL) and chair of the Illinois Committee of Blind Vendors; and Jennifer Fox of Fox Vending (Bridgeview, IL).
Ahead of the Jan. 27 hearing, NAMA sent the letter below to the Cook County Department of Revenue, signed by nearly 40 NAMA member companies, which is reprinted below.
http://www.vendingtimes.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=754303A430C54C2AA236B18E2C06AB17 <http://www.vendingtimes.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=754303A430C54C2AA236B18E2C06AB17&nm=Vending%20Features&type=Publishing&mod=Publications::Article&mid=8F3A7027421841978F18BE895F87F791&tier=4&id=BAF0CF9FF48E4DC3BE184EF3EA34CD23> &nm=Vending%20Features&type=Publishing&mod=Publications::Article&mid=8F3A7027421841978F18BE895F87F791&tier=4&id=BAF0CF9FF48E4DC3BE184EF3EA34CD23
**11 Shared by NAMA,
Looking Ahead: Industry Urged to Continue Compliance with Calorie Disclosure Rule
Dear Members, Following the swearing-in of President Trump, NAMA has fielded questions from the industry regarding the impact of the President's actions on the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Calorie Disclosure Rules for food and beverage items sold from vending machines.
The President's recent Executive Order on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was focused on specific health care provisions of the law and most likely does not have an impact on the FDA's Calorie Disclosure rule. Therefore, NAMA urges vending operators and the entire industry to continue to comply with the FDA's Calorie Disclosure Rule.
Potential Impacts of Repeal of Calorie Disclosure
Some supporters of the repeal of the ACA also support repeal of the FDA's calorie disclosure rule. Our view: A repeal of FDA's calorie disclosure would not be favorable to the industry. In fact, it could lead to different calorie disclosure regulations in states/municipalities, making compliance logistically impossible and very expensive for the industry. A repeal would also remove the flexibilities NAMA helped secure and the investments of time and money to comply with the current FDA rule would be for naught.
NAMA continues to track this issue very closely to protect the industry and will update as new information is received. Please do not hesitate to contact NAMA's Government Affairs Team with questions regarding calorie disclosure or other issues.
**12 From Vending Market Watch
Getting Started in MicroMarkets
BY 365 RETAIL MARKETS PROFESSIONAL ON JAN 30, 2017
Since hitting the marketplace in 2012, MicroMarket adoption and revenue have increased steadily with no signs of slowing down. The open market, fresh food offerings, and convenient technology have taken MicroMarkets from a costly investment to a sound, money-making venture and necessity for Operators looking towards the future. Your MicroMarket provider can help guide you towards selecting the best locations to open your new markets. However, we’ve compiled a short list of priority items to cover before you sign a contract with a host location.
1. Check state regulations
You’ll want to be aware of any licensing requirements and tax implications. Talk to the state vending associations. To date, the Food and Drug Administration has not created a defined classification for MicroMarkets and regulations vary from state to state. NAMA is an excellent resource to tap into when navigating the terrain. Be prepared to discuss:
Local health codes and if health permits or food handling cards are required.
Inspections.
Food quality control, including temp sensors, disposal of expired foods and staff training.
2. Scope out the competition
Visit the local Chamber of Commerce’s website to find out what other food options are available in the area. A location that is in close proximity to fast food restaurants and convenience stores may yield lower sales than a location that is more isolated.
3. Scour the terrain
MicroMarkets may not be the best fit for every location. Sit down with the host location and go over the checklist:
Employee size – For a full-size MicroMarket, the location should have 150 or more employees. Any less and you’d want to consider stocking more snacks and less fresh foods to avoid spoilage or putting in a nanomarket™ instead.
Break times – MicroMarkets are more attractive in blue-collar environments. The shortened break intervals, i.e. 2-15 minute breaks and a 30-minute break will encourage employees to stay on campus instead of venturing out for food.
Physical space – Does the location have a suitable breakroom space? Contacting a company that specializes in MicroMarket fixtures such as Fixturelite for consultation would be a good idea.
MicroMarkets are definitely an investment with the potential for a high return. However, it is important not to enter into this market without a plan. By doing your due diligence, you can avoid pitfalls and deliver a superior product to your customers.
**13 From RSA Buying Group
RSA Management Purchase Power Deals
Earn Extra Rebates on the following:
FRITO NEWS ITEM DEALS (PURCHASE AT LEAST 1 TO QUALIFY FOR FRITO REBATE)
Deal Date: THROUGH JANUARY
Rebates Products
$1.92 per case 1.375 oz Lay’s Kettle Chips Original-64 count – UPC 61178
$0.4 per unit off invoice 1.75 oz Chester’s Fries Bacon Cheddar - 64 count – UPC 65260
NEW DEALS THIS WEEK
HOT POCKETS - POWERBUY
Deal Date: JANUARY 30 11:00 AM EST – FEBRUARY 3, 2017 –DELIVER BETWEEN FEBRUARY 13-24, 2017
MUST ORDER 2 SKU’S AND IN EQUAL CASE AMOUNTS
Rebates Products
$3.00 per case 4 OZ. Hot Pocket Beef and Cheddar, Cheeseburger, Chicken Melt, Ham and Cheese, Jalapeno Steak and Cheese, Meatball with Mozz, Pepperoni Pizza, Philly Steak, Sausage Egg and Cheese, BBQ Chicken Cornbread or Lean Pocket Ham and Cheddar 24 ct.
PEPSI INNOVATION PRODUCTS - THROUGH AUTHORIZED PBC ONLY
Deal Date: THROUGH FEBRUARY 28, 2017
Rebates Products
$2.00 per case Kickstart 12 oz. Hydration Raspberry Citrus
$2.00 per case Kickstart 16 oz. Mango Lime
$2.00 per case Propel 20 oz. Watermelon Flavored Water
$2.00 per case Lipton 20 oz. Mango Tea
$2.00 per case Lipton Pure Leaf 18.5 oz. Pomegranate or Mint Flavor Tea
PEPSI – ORDER THROUGH AUTHORIZED PBC ONLY
Deal Date: THROUGH FEBRUARY, 2017 –DELIVERED BY MARCH 7, 2017
Rebates Products
$2.00 per case 20 oz. Wild Cherry and Diet Wild Cherry Pepsi - 24 count
$2.00 per case 18.5 oz Lipton Pure Leaf Tea 12 count– ALL FLAVORS
$2.00 per case 16 oz. AMP 12 count – ALL FLAVORS
AQUAFINA – ORDER THROUGH AUTHORIZED PBC ONLY
Deal Date: THROUGH FEBRUARY, 2017 –DELIVERED BY MARCH 7, 2017
Rebates Products
$1.00 per case 20 oz. Aquafina 24 count
STARBUCKS
Deal Date: THROUGH FEBRUARY, 2017 –DELIVERED BY MARCH 7, 2017
Rebates Products
$2.00 per case 13.7 oz. Starbucks Frappuccino – ALL FLAVORS
FRITO
Deal Date: THROUGH FEBRUARY 4, 2017 - DELIVERY BY FEBRUARY 19, 2017
Rebates Products
$1.92 per case Lay’s Kettle Chips LSS – Original, Mesquite BBQ and Jalapeno
$2.40 per case 2.0 oz. Grandma’s Mini Chocolate Chip Cookies
$5.00 per case Harvest Nuts – Mixed, Cashews, Toffee Glazed Mix, Fruit and Nuts, Premium Almonds
$2.40 per case Munchies Crackers – Cheese Peanut Butter and Toast Peanut Butter
PEPSI THROUGH AUTHORIZED PBC ONLY
Deal Date: THROUGH JANUARY 31 – DELIVERY BY FEBRUARY 7, 2017
Rebates Products
$1.50 per case 20 oz. Mountain Dew – ALL FLAVORS EXCEPT REGULAR AND DIET
$2.00 per case Lipton Teas – ALL FLAVORS – INCLUDING INNOVATION
$2.00 per case 15.2 oz. Ocean Spray – ALL FLAVORS
$2.00 per case 12 oz. Starbucks Refreshers – ALL FLAVORS
Deals ending in March
FRITO
Deal Date: THROUGH MARCH 5, 2017 - DELIVERY BY MARCH 18, 2017
Rebates Products
$1.92 per case Rold Gold and Rold Gold Thins – ALL FLAVORS
PEPSI THROUGH AUTHORIZED PBC ONLY
Deal Date: DELIVERY MARCH 31, 2017
Rebates Products
$3.00 per case 1L and 700mL Lifewtr 12 ct. – UPC 12000161155 and 12000161162
Deals ending in June
OREO
Deal Date: DELIVERY JUNE 30, 2017
Rebates Products
$0.2 per unit Oreo Chocolate Bar
Deals ending in December
PLANTERS
Deal Date: DELIVERY BY DECEMBER 31, 2017
Rebates Products
$2.88 per case 2 oz. Planters Peanuts
$1.44 per case Planters Trail Mix Nut and Chocolate
SPLENDA
Deal Date: THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2017
Rebates Products
$3.30 per case Splenda 4/400 ct. Sweetener Packets
$3.00 per case Splenda 2000 ct. Bulk and 12/50 ct. Sweetener Packets
$2.60 per case Splenda 12/100 ct. Sweetener Packets
$1.25 per case Splenda 500 ct. Bulk Sweetener Packets
WELCH’S
Deal Date: DELIVERY BY DECEMBER 31, 2017
Rebates Products
$.01 per unit Welch’s, Gummi Factory, Sour Jacks, Sun-Maid, Fisher – ALL FLAVORS
Indefinite End Date
BEANITO’S
Deal Date: THROUGH INDEFINITE
Rebates Products
$1.00 per case Bean Chips and Puffs - ALL FLAVORS
COLD STONE CREAMERY
Deal Date: THROUGH INDEFINITE
Rebates Products
$1.50 per case All Flavors of Milk Shakers
COOL HAUS
Deal Date: THROUGH INDEFINITE
Rebates Products
20% per case Choco. Chip, Van Bean, Snickerdoodle, Salted Caramel Ice Cream
DAISY’S BAKERY, INC
Deal Date: THROUGH INDEFINITE
Rebates Products
8% per case Individually Wrapped Muffin, Cake, Brownie, Pie, Cookie – ALL FLAVORS
JJ’s PIES
Deal Date: THROUGH INDEFINITE
Rebates Products
$1.80 per case JJ’s Bakery Boxed Pies – ALL FLAVORS
J&J FOODS
Deal Date: THROUGH INDEFINITE
Rebates Products
5% per case Kim & Scott’s IW Flavored Soft Pretzels and IW Pretzel Melts
5% per case Mary B’s IW Biscuit Breakfast Melts
5% per case Corazona’s HeartBar Oatmeal Squares
HINT WATER
Deal Date: THROUGH INDEFINITE
Rebates Products
$1.00 per case Hint 100% Natural Goodness Water – ALL FLAVORS
J&J FOODS
Deal Date: THROUGH INDEFINITE
Rebates Products
5% per case Kim & Scott’s IW Flavored Soft Pretzels and IW Pretzel Melts
5% per case Mary B’s IW Biscuit Breakfast Melts
5% per case Corazona’s HeartBar Oatmeal Squares
VITA COCO – ORDER THROUGH AUTHORIZED DPSG ONLY
Deal Date: THROUGH INDEFINITE
Rebates Products
$1.00 per case 11.1 oz. Vita Coco– ALL FLAVORS
$1.50 per case 17 oz. Vita Coco – ALL FLAVORS
WELCH’S FRUIT SNACKS
Deal Date: THROUGH INDEFINITE
Rebates Products
$2.88 per case Buddy Bears, Sour Jacks, Nuclear SQWorms, Sun Maid Chocolate covered Raisins and Fisher Chocolate covered Peanuts.
$1.44 per case Welch’s School Items – ALL FLAVORS
$0.96 per case Welch’s Fruit Snacks – ALL FLAVORS except school items
$0.96 per case Gummi Factory – ALL FLAVORS
Thank you,
Kathy Ungaro
ICBV, Business Manager
(630)234-4444
Illinois Committee of Blind Vendors
53 W. Jackson Blvd. Suite 502
Chicago, IL 60604
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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