[il-talk] Fwd: ICBV Office Update January 13, 2014

[Denise Avant]

Denise R. Avant
President, National Federation Of The Blind Of Illinois
Live the life you want



> Begin forwarded message:
> 
> Date: January 13, 2015 at 2:24:57 PM CST
> From: Illinois Committee of Blind Vendors <icbv at sbcglobal.net>
> Reply-To: Illinois Committee of Blind Vendors <icbv at sbcglobal.net>
> Subject: ICBV Office Update January 13, 2014
> To: Illinois Committee of Blind Vendors <icbv at sbcglobal.net>
> 
> ICBV Office Update
> January 13, 2015
>  
>  <applewebdata://010D3529-7F27-4D6F-98EC-B78D3F6F0251> <applewebdata://010D3529-7F27-4D6F-98EC-B78D3F6F0251>Reminder the attached Word document provides a table of contents that allows you to use links to move directly to a subject of interest.
>  
> *1) Milage 57.5 cents beginning January 1, 2015 <https://us-mg204.mail.yahoo.com/neo/launch?.partner=sbc&.rand=9ss6pjso95qcr#one>
> *2) 5 Surprising Factors That Make Up Your Personality <https://us-mg204.mail.yahoo.com/neo/launch?.partner=sbc&.rand=9ss6pjso95qcr#two>
> *3) Blind Chef Laura Martinez Readies Herself for New Role as Restaurant Owner <https://us-mg204.mail.yahoo.com/neo/launch?.partner=sbc&.rand=9ss6pjso95qcr#three>
> *4) Families With Rare Eye Disease Grapple With Vision Loss <https://us-mg204.mail.yahoo.com/neo/launch?.partner=sbc&.rand=9ss6pjso95qcr#four>
> *5) CVS Health now Offers Talking, Braille, and Large Print Prescription Labels <https://us-mg204.mail.yahoo.com/neo/launch?.partner=sbc&.rand=9ss6pjso95qcr#five>
> *6) BEP Rolls Out U.S. Currency Reader Program Nationwide <https://us-mg204.mail.yahoo.com/neo/launch?.partner=sbc&.rand=9ss6pjso95qcr#six>
> *7) The ABLE Act – SSI and Medicaid Recipients Impact <https://us-mg204.mail.yahoo.com/neo/launch?.partner=sbc&.rand=9ss6pjso95qcr#seven>
> *8) NCD New Year Message 2015 <https://us-mg204.mail.yahoo.com/neo/launch?.partner=sbc&.rand=9ss6pjso95qcr#eight>
> *9) Welcome to 2015 National Federation of the Blind <https://us-mg204.mail.yahoo.com/neo/launch?.partner=sbc&.rand=9ss6pjso95qcr#nine>
> *10) NFBEI-BLITZ <https://us-mg204.mail.yahoo.com/neo/launch?.partner=sbc&.rand=9ss6pjso95qcr#ten>
> *11) NAMA Introduces New Coffee Service Video <https://us-mg204.mail.yahoo.com/neo/launch?.partner=sbc&.rand=9ss6pjso95qcr#eleven>
> *12) RSA Buying Group Rebate Information <https://us-mg204.mail.yahoo.com/neo/launch?.partner=sbc&.rand=9ss6pjso95qcr#twelve>
> *13) CSI Hot List <https://us-mg204.mail.yahoo.com/neo/launch?.partner=sbc&.rand=9ss6pjso95qcr#thirteen>
>  
>  <applewebdata://010D3529-7F27-4D6F-98EC-B78D3F6F0251>**1 Shared by Raven Pulliam, BEPB Program Administrator
> Pursuant to 80 Ill. Admin Code Sections 3000.300(f)(2) and 2800 Appendix A, reimbursement for use of a private vehicle while traveling on official government business shall be on a mileage basis, and shall be at the rate established by the Federal General Services Administration (the "GSA")/  The GSA recently announced that the mileage reimbursement rate will increase from 56 cents per mile to 57.5 cents per mile effective January 1, 2015.  The will apply to all travel occurring on or after January 1, 2015.
>  
> In sum, the State of Illinois' mileage rate for the use of personal vehicles will increase from 56 cents per mile to 57.5 cents per mile effective January 1, 2015.
> 
>  <applewebdata://010D3529-7F27-4D6F-98EC-B78D3F6F0251>**2 Shared by Chuck Fesmire, The Entrepreneur’s Source
> 5 Surprising Factors That Make Up Your Personality
> Some people eat all their blue M&M's first. Some seek wisdom in tea leaves. Some are the sort to never leave a dish in the sink, while others are lifelong breeders of dust bunnies. Some flee from pigeons, while others keep pet iguanas. Though these behaviors may seem odd at first glance, they are the very idiosyncrasies that make us human. Rising from the bedrock of our personality and shaped by our varied environments, these quirks ensure that we are all peculiar -- and, as such, not peculiar at all.
>  
> The elements that constitute a personality may seem mysterious, even random. But psychologists who study personality can actually predict our general outlook on life by analyzing five factors so readily distinguishable that some can be identified in mice. (Really!) Each person possesses all five personality factors, but in varying proportions:
>  
> Conscientiousness: How strong is your drive to follow the rules and finish what you start?
>  
>  Agreeableness: How far will you go to help others or make them happy?
>  
> Neuroticism: Is life a series of hazards to avoid or a feast of opportunities to pursue?
>  
> Openness to experience: Do you hunger for mental stimulation and yearn for novelty?
>  
> Extraversion: Are you more energized by interacting with people or by time alone?
>  
> These factors are like stove knobs: Your Conscientiousness might be boiling at 9 while your Extraversion crackles at 5 and your Agreeableness simmers at 3. But high and low settings aren't defects. Low Agreeableness doesn't necessarily mean you're disagreeable; rather, it may indicate that you're comfortable voicing an unpopular opinion. Low Conscientiousness probably doesn't mean you're a slacker, but that when opportunity knocks, you're likely to drop everything to fling open the door. And while high Extraversion may correlate to impulsivity, such risk takers often make fantastic explorers and inventors.
>  
>  It's a high or low setting that can set you apart, as the stove of your psyche cooks up your unique mannerisms and coping behaviors. Though high Neuroticism doesn't doom you to full-blown phobias and panic attacks, it might portend a lively squeamishness over, say, snakes or germs. In the upper reaches of Agreeableness, we find people so empathic that they may burst into tears at parades, weddings, even poignant toothpaste commercials. Harmless compulsions appear to be related to our place on the Conscientiousness spectrum: Some hum a tune and their dutiful brain may wonder, Did I do it right? Did I do it enough? And they feel compelled to hum it again.
>  
> Of course, who you are isn't determined entirely by nature. Researchers estimate that our genes bear only about half the responsibility for our diversity, which supports the old nature/nurture hypothesis: Nature builds our basic personality, and then our environment tinkers with it over the course of our lives. A Japanese extrovert and an American extrovert may have identical stove-top settings, but one culture may frown when the extrovert shows her true colors, while the other will chuckle, and so they end up as markedly different people. Nurture doesn't change your personality as much as it discourages you from putting every bit of it on display or encourages you to let it shine.
>  
> And so most of us learn to express our peculiar selves in ways that the people around us tolerate or even enjoy -- and that make us happy, too. The conscientious dishwasher receives praise for her tidiness and keeps it up; the M&M color-coder learns that her private ritual can soothe her anxiety and proceeds accordingly.
>  
> The behavior that results from our stove-top settings can adapt to circumstance, and our five personality factors can be nudged over time. (A dust bunny breeder can learn to tidy up once in a while.) But even as nurture softens and smooths us, we can rely on nature to keep us peculiarly ourselves.
>  
> Written by Hannah Holmes for The Oprah Magazine and The Huffington Post
>  
>  <applewebdata://010D3529-7F27-4D6F-98EC-B78D3F6F0251>**3 From DNAinfo By Janet Rausa Fuller on October 30, 2014 5:18am
> Blind Chef Laura Martinez Readies Herself for New Role as Restaurant Owner
> LINCOLN PARK — Chef Laura Martinez, who is blind, made headlines when she was hired by the late Charlie Trotter fresh out of culinary school in 2010.
>  
> For two years, she worked in the kitchen at his world-renowned Lincoln Park restaurant, doing whatever was needed — bread station, garde manger, hot line — for the notoriously demanding chef.
>  
> When Trotter's restaurant closed in 2012, Martinez was out of a job and short on job leads, but not nearly out of hope. She had long dreamed of owning a restaurant. What young chef doesn't? "I said, 'I can't just sit at home and feel sorry for myself,'" she said. "I thought, maybe this is the right time."
>  
> In November, after a two-year process guided by an adviser she calls "my hero," Martinez, 30, will open La Diosa at 2308 N. Clark St., a mile from her Lakeview home. Janet Fuller says Martinez uses her heightened smell and taste senses to compensate. La Diosa will be open all day, serving mostly comfort food with Mexican and French touches. Burritos and quiche during the day, meatloaf and mashed potatoes for dinner and sweets for whenever — flan, tres leches cake, mocha-whiskey cheesecake and "impossible cake," so named for its seemingly impossible construction of chocolate cake on the bottom and flan on top.
>  
> The modest space, about 450 square feet, offers just enough room for six or so cafe tables, a row of stools in the front window and a counter behind which Martinez, her husband and her mom will cook using an electric stove and small appliances. There is no gas hookup.
>  
> This is not the upscale destination of her dreams. But, said her adviser Andrew Fogaty, "I don't think this is the culmination. I think this is the beginning. I think she's going to use this small start as a vehicle to build capital."
>  
> Starting from scratch
> Martinez had a clear vision but little capital when she called Fogaty in October of 2012.
>  
> She typed "assisting people with small business from scratch" into Google. Down the search engine rabbit hole she went, eventually landing on Fogaty, who at the time was director of a Small Business Development Center. Such state-funded centers offer free consulting and training services to entrepreneurs and small-business owners.
>  
> She sounded "a little ticked off" on the phone, Fogaty said. He also remembers her coming to his West Side office by herself for the first meeting.
>  
> "I was impressed by her determination, because clearly I wasn't the first person she had talked to," he said. Martinez, who speaks quietly in short, assured sentences, was thinking big: a Trotter-level restaurant. Fogaty was straight with her. There's no way, he told her. You have to start small, he said. They began to draft a business plan while Fogaty researched grants.
>  
> They eventually secured two state grants and a microloan from Accion totaling about $40,000. They found the storefront. They got permits. That's the short version of what has been an exhaustive, bureaucratic journey.
>  
> "There are a lot of obstacles, mainly because the world is not set up for someone who can't see. This morning, I was still going back and forth with the Department of Rehabilitation Services," Fogaty said Monday.
>  
> The even shorter version: "[Fogaty] believed in me," Martinez said.
>  
> Becoming a chef
> Martinez was a baby when doctors found cancer in her eyes. They removed one eye when she was a year old.
>  
> Her food memories from childhood are clear as day — the smell of peppers roasting for her mother Josephina's mole, the feel of the dough as she helped her mom and grandma press fresh tortillas.
>  
> "They were a little nervous of me getting near the stove, but they let me use the knife," she said. "My mom gave me an adult knife. I played with it. It was basically my best friend, my toy. I pretended I was a surgeon."
>  
> At 24, Martinez quit taking psychology classes and left her hometown of Moline, Ill., for Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Chicago.
>  
> She did her required internship at the Chicago Lighthouse, a social service agency for the blind and visually impaired, which led to a string of publicity: a profile in the Chicago Tribune, a story on the CBS Evening News, and then a job offer from Trotter, who'd accompanied the CBS camera crew to meet Martinez.
>  
> At Trotter's, Martinez said she worked with an assistant by her side for just a few weeks, "basically until I memorized the kitchen and my surroundings." Trotter "didn't look at my vision problem. He looked beyond it," she said. "That's something I can never forget."
>  
> At La Diosa, Martinez will offer fried chicken and potato gratin as a tribute to Trotter, who died of a stroke last year. That's what she cooked that day in the Lighthouse kitchen, deboning the chicken — all under his watchful eye and the glare of the camera.
>  
> Building La Diosa
> A few months ago, Fogaty took a new position as business development director at the Alliance for Illinois Manufacturing. Still invested in Martinez's project, he asked his new bosses to let him see it through; they said "yes."
>  
> "It was a personal challenge, but then, of course, after working with chef for so long, she's become my friend. I want her to succeed. And I think she's unique. "I don't think there's another blind restaurateur who's opened their own restaurant in the country," he said. "I think it's a feather in the cap of Illinois and Chicago to have her."
>  
> When they went looking for a storefront, Fogaty would describe the layout to her and how much work he thought it needed. Martinez would walk through the room, feeling her way from end to end.
>  
> The space they settled on had been a cafe, which eased the licensing process a bit. It is decorated in warm tones of brown, orange and green — chocolate, yam and avocado. Martinez worked with a designer on the look.
>  
> "I said I want something that invites people to come in and feel comfortable and also to make them hungry," she said. Prices will be reasonable for the young customers she expects to get from Francis W. Parker School just down the street, she said.
>  
> Her husband, Maurilio, plans to leave his job as a manager at a housewares product company and join her at La Diosa once all is up and running, which she said should happen in two to three weeks. She is waiting on some equipment, furniture and signage.
>  
> La Diosa is Spanish for "the goddess." "I believe in prosperity and, of course, in God," Martinez said.
>  
> Link to article:  http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20141030/lincoln-park/blind-chef-laura-martinez-readies-herself-for-new-role-as-restaurant-owner <http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20141030/lincoln-park/blind-chef-laura-martinez-readies-herself-for-new-role-as-restaurant-owner>
>  
>  <applewebdata://010D3529-7F27-4D6F-98EC-B78D3F6F0251>**4 Shared on Facebook by Janice Brown
> Families with rare eye disease grapple with vision loss
> By Angie Leventis Lourgos
> Chicago Tribune
> January 1, 2015, 5:19 PM
> Fourteen-year-old Marie Zaknoun was playing in her backyard with a friend last fall when she began covering and uncovering her eye with her hand, a habit from early childhood..
>  
> She went inside her Joliet home and announced to her mother, Loulou Zaknoun, that she could no longer see out of her right eye.
>  
> "It's a blur," Marie Zaknoun remembers saying.
>  
> Although the news wasn't entirely unexpected, her mother cried.
>  
> The Plainfield Central High School freshman's sight has been slowly and subtly fading for most of her life, she and her family said. She was born with Leber's Congenital Amaurosis or LCA, a rare inherited degenerative disease of the retina marked by vision loss at birth. It affects around 3,500 people in the United States, said Dr. Stephen Rose, chief research officer at the Foundation Fighting Blindness.
>  
> Many children with LCA are born blind. Some like Marie Zaknoun describe their vision loss as gradual, laced with uncertainty as to how or when it might fade. Amid this unpredictability, the Zaknouns along with other local families grappling with LCA hold out hope for future treatments to restore vision, and are particularly enthused by recent advancements in gene therapy.
>  
> There's Lee and Lori St. Arnaud of the La Grange area, who sometimes wish their two children with varying levels of vision could see their faces clearly. And there's 17-year-old Alan Brint of Highland Park, who is blind but has light perception, and whose parents fear this sense will one day go dark.
>  
> But the families say it can be a delicate balance to remain hopeful about potential treatments while at the same time accepting loss of sight.
>  
> "I feel like I walk this tight rope between acceptance and hope," said Alan's mother, Betsy Brint.
>  
> Frustration and gratitude
> At the age of 6, despite having low vision, Marie Zaknoun remembers running across a darkened stage and performing in a ballet recital, something she couldn't do alone today. By fourth grade, she said, she was reading large print but after long periods of studying, everything would darken. She'd briefly fear she'd gone permanently blind, but her vision would return. Sight in her right eye, always the weaker one, had become increasingly blurry in late spring and summer, according to her medical records.
>  
> Now she walks with a cane and reads and writes in Braille, aids she'd resisted using as a small child, in part out of denial that she would ever need them. She says she can't see at all out of her right eye and has limited vision in her left eye, with some sight straight ahead but little in the periphery, like looking through a telescope.
>  
> While Marie has moments of frustration, she said she's learned to flourish with little vision. She loves to sing, and believes her sense of hearing is superior compared to most people with typical sight. She would like one day to work as a rehab specialist for clients who are blind or have impaired vision, a calling she might never have found without her own vision loss.
>  
> But she is very scared of her sight fading any further.
>  
> "I would hate to lose that vision," she said. "Losing it would just be so different, I don't know how I would take it."
>  
> She sometimes wonders if it would have been easier to be born with no vision rather than having some sight that ultimately fades.
>  
> But she said she appreciates having experienced color — after all, how do you explain the concept of orange to someone who's never seen a sunset?
>  
> She recounts the litany of sights that have given her joy over the years — the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea in her ancestral homeland of Lebanon, the jumping dolphins from the front row at Sea World, the burst of fireworks each Independence Day, with her parents guiding her line of vision.
>  
> She's also grateful to have seen the faces of her family and friends. Marie fears that one day she will no longer be able to see them, and that she could forget what her mother, father and younger sister and brothers look like.
>  
> "I'm grateful for my vision," she said.
>  
> 'I can't describe it'
>  
> Lori St. Arnaud remembers sensing that something wasn't right as she nursed her newborn son, Patrick, and his big blue eyes never looked back at her.
>  
> He was diagnosed with LCA as a baby. Blind from birth, his earliest months were a whirlwind of physical, occupational and visual therapies. Lori and her husband, Lee St. Arnaud, were so overwhelmed at first they thought there was no way they could have another child, in part because there's a 25 percent chance the inherited disorder would be present in the next baby.
>  
> "But then we thought, you know what, if our next child makes us half as happy as Patrick has made us, we'll be fine," said Lori St. Arnaud.
>  
> Mirielle St. Arnaud was born 21 months after Patrick. Despite the odds in vision's favor, she too was born with LCA, though her sight is better than her brother's.
>  
> Mirielle, now 7, has some central vision but nothing on the periphery. She describes it as looking through a tube the size of a pencil. Patrick, 9, only has light perception, though his parents say this sense has darkened in his right eye over the years.
>  
> Patrick helps Mirielle with Braille. Mirielle sometimes narrates events she can see but he can't.
>  
> "Sometimes I wonder what it would be like to be completely blind," she said.
>  
> Mirielle has asked her brother what it's like to have no vision.
>  
> "I can't describe it," he said, laughing a little.
>  
> Without treatment, Mirielle's sight could wane at some point, said Dr. Irene Maumenee, a research professor of ophthalmology at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago who has assessed the St. Arnaud kids.
>  
> "It's usually so subtle, and it's so slow from one day to the next, from one year to the next," said Maumenee, adding that patients might not be aware of the progression.
>  
> Scientists have discovered more than a dozen different genes with mutations that cause LCA, and the various genetic subtypes can affect the retina in different ways, said Dr. Gerald Fishman of the Chicago Lighthouse for People who are Blind or Visually Impaired. For example, Marie's affected gene is different from the St. Arnauds' affected gene.
>  
> Some experts say the number of LCA genes is as high as 21, with others potentially undiscovered, making it a hard condition to treat.
>  
> Maumenee is studying treatments for one particular gene and believes within 10 to 20 years there will be gene therapy treatments for most LCA subtypes.
>  
> The St. Arnaud parents would love for Patrick and Mirielle to be able to see, to keep them safer and help with social and communication skills.
>  
> "I think our kids are ready for society, but I don't know if society is ready for them," Lee St. Arnaud said.
>  
> The kids, however, didn't seem as concerned.
>  
> Patrick said he likes being blind. Mirielle said she doesn't want her vision to decrease, but she wouldn't choose to improve her vision.
>  
> "I think I don't want it to change because I like being who I am," she said.
>  
> Possible treatment
> Alan Brint is preparing to study business in the fall at Beloit College in Wisconsin. He has LCA and was born blind but with light perception. This means he can sometimes detect objects in his path, even if he can't see them the way a sighted person can, but it's a tremendous help in terms of mobility and safety.
>  
> He can walk by himself with a cane nearly a mile from his home to school in the daylight. But darkness is far more challenging. One evening he went outside without telling anyone and was locked out: The teen was lost in his backyard until he heard a car in the driveway.
>  
> His condition has stayed roughly the same over the years. But his mother said she fears the day will come when his light perception starts to wane, a likely outcome without any treatment.
>  
> "If I could just stop you from going dark," Betsy Brint said to her son.
>  
> About seven years ago, researchers successfully injected a healthy gene into the eyes of LCA patients with mutations in a particular gene called RPE65, with patients reporting vision improvements and objective tests showing increases in visual function, said Rose of the Maryland-based Foundation Fighting Blindness.
>  
> But he said there are still significant hurdles: No one knows how long those treatments could last long term, each form of LCA would likely need its own distinct treatment, and research is very expensive.
>  
> Betsy Brint and her husband, David Brint, in 1998 launched the Foundation for Retinal Research to raise money for treatment research for LCA and support other families. The St. Arnauds have sponsored about a dozen fundraisers for that foundation. The Zaknouns held a charity raffle in November for the RDH12 Fund for Sight — named for Marie's affected gene — based in South Carolina.
>  
> Betsy Brint would love for her son to see himself in a mirror. She wants to show him what color is. She'd be excited for him to see a Blackhawks game, rather than listening to it on the radio.
>  
> "He doesn't know what he doesn't know," she said.
>  
> Alan Brint, a swimmer who loves to make everyone around him laugh, said he doesn't ruminate about potentially losing his light perception. He said it would be cool to see one day — he'd like to know what his own face looks like — but he doesn't fixate on whether there's a treatment out there that will improve his vision.
>  
> "I don't think about it," he said. "I just focus on now."
>  
> eleventis at tribpub.com
> @angie_leventis
>  
>  <applewebdata://010D3529-7F27-4D6F-98EC-B78D3F6F0251>**5 Shared by Flying Blind, LLC – Top Tech Tidbits:
> In a big gain in accessibility, "CVS Health now Offers Talking, Braille and Large Print Prescription Labels Through its Mail Service Pharmacy for Individuals with Vision Impairments"  follow the link for more information: http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001VJaPEBEVBS5BdVQaMmQS8cosdyHykQTMCArYEVb9H9oKtiJB5QoiGA-0F5pTO8QptOr_eVQ8EFhnlGI7N0k-mBVghcCxOaT1pYL1JXWrElOxR7dsOwc3r_F5cEubveReoJAgtFigAzdu_hFMfvkFYuMMTl2K3ZNRH7qiVzh-95rDs7rZYOvFdgKdgQ8krlG-ytLepBqlFnI=&c=PYZtPctzOv7hIB2_-MmGJOuokqK90bDH5JTQ044bRp6BHKMgnopqxg==&ch=mBvGlmCmCwc2jQk4s3q34jWjYejDqgrv8tUhCDaO9bCWOzybH5GkPg== <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001VJaPEBEVBS5BdVQaMmQS8cosdyHykQTMCArYEVb9H9oKtiJB5QoiGA-0F5pTO8QptOr_eVQ8EFhnlGI7N0k-mBVghcCxOaT1pYL1JXWrElOxR7dsOwc3r_F5cEubveReoJAgtFigAzdu_hFMfvkFYuMMTl2K3ZNRH7qiVzh-95rDs7rZYOvFdgKdgQ8krlG-ytLepBqlFnI=&c=PYZtPctzOv7hIB2_-MmGJOuokqK90bDH5JTQ044bRp6BHKMgnopqxg==&ch=mBvGlmCmCwc2jQk4s3q34jWjYejDqgrv8tUhCDaO9bCWOzybH5GkPg==>
>  
>  <applewebdata://010D3529-7F27-4D6F-98EC-B78D3F6F0251>**6 Shared by Nicky Gacos, President NABM
> Bureau of Engraving and Printing U.S. Department of the Treasury
> Press Releases
> BEP Rolls Out U.S. Currency Reader Program Nationwide
> Media Contact: Darlene Anderson
> (202) 874-2229
> Darlene.Anderson at BEP.GOV
> Customer Inquiry: Toll Free (844) 815-9388
>  
> Washington, DC (January 5, 2015) – The Department of Treasury’s Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) is now accepting and processing applications nationwide from blind or visually impaired individuals who wish to receive a free currency reader.  This initiative is one of a number of steps the BEP is taking to introduce technologies and features to make our nation’s paper currency accessible to all individuals.
>  
> The reader, called iBill® Currency Identifier, provides a convenient means for blind or visually impaired individuals to identify all Federal Reserve notes (U.S. currency) in circulation.  It uses a single AAA battery, which is included, and denominates the note in one of three modes: a clear natural voice, a pattern of tones, or a pattern of vibrations for privacy.  The vibration mode also assists people who are deaf and blind.
>  
> The U.S. Currency Reader Program is a component of the BEP’s initiative to provide meaningful access to Federal Reserve notes.  Interested individuals can download the application from the BEP’s website at http://www.bep.gov/uscurrencyreaderform.html <http://www.bep.gov/uscurrencyreaderform.html> .  It must be filled out completely, signed by a competent authority that can certify eligibility, and returned to the mailing address provided on the form.
>  
> Please direct questions or comments about the U.S. Currency Reader Program to the BEP toll-free number (844-815-9388) or email at meaningful.access at bep.gov.  More information about the U.S. Currency Reader Program and the BEP’s meaningful access initiative is available at http://www.bep.gov/ <http://www.bep.gov/> .
>  
> In September, the BEP launched a four-month pilot program where existing patrons of the National Library Services for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS) were eligible to pre-order currency readers.  The pilot program provided an opportunity for the government to test its ordering and distribution process, and gauge demand for currency readers in advance of the January 2015 national rollout.  Approximately 15,000 readers were pre-ordered and delivered under the pilot program.
>  
>  In 2011, the BEP introduced EyeNote®, an app that scans and identifies note images on mobile devices operating on the Apple iOS platform.  BEP also assisted the Department of Education in developing the IDEAL Currency Reader app for Android phones.  To date, these apps have been downloaded more than 20,000 times.
>  
>  <applewebdata://010D3529-7F27-4D6F-98EC-B78D3F6F0251>**7 Shared by Mike Vandervroot, Texas
> The ABLE Act was passed and signed into law setting up special savings accounts for those with disabilities or those with disabled dependants.  It has major, positive impact on SSI and Medicaid recipients who will now be able to save and have more than $2,000 in assets.  See the link and text below. 
>  
> This is the most significant disability-oriented legislation passed in many years.  No specific implementation details from the government were currently available but should be in the near future as the IRS, Social Security, Medicaid, and the financial industry  begin to communicate how to set up such a savings account and the specific rules.  However, the basic idea is that savings up to $100,000 do not affect SSI eligibility and no limit for Medicaid eligibility.  However, withdrawals from the savings plan must be for disability-related expenses, but that includes housing and a lot more.
>  
> GovTrack’s Bill Summary
> H.R. 647 (113th): ABLE Act of 2014
>  
> The Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act would ease the financial burden for individuals with disabilities by creating tax-free accounts that can be used to save for disability-related expenses. These accounts can be created by individuals to support themselves or by families to support their dependents.
>  
> The ABLE act was introduced by Ander Crenshaw [R-FL4] in the House and by Robert Casey [D-PA] in the Senate. Together, the two bills have over 400 cosponsors.
>  
> The bill would create tax-exempt, state based private savings accounts to fund disability-related expenses to supplement benefits currently provided by Social Security, Medicaid, employers, and private insurance. The account shall be treated in the same way as a qualified tuition program, such as a 529. A 529 account allows families to save money for an individual’s education without being disqualified for certain aid programs and prevents tax penalties on the money saved and any income earned from it.
>  
> Expenses would qualify as disability-related if they are for the benefit of an individual with a disability and are related to the disability. They include education; housing; transportation; employment support; health, prevention, and wellness costs; assistive technology and personal support services; and other expenses.
>  
> ABLE accounts will have no impact on Medicaid eligibility. Those receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) from Social Security shall have those payments suspended while maintaining excess resources in an ABLE account.
>  
> Source: https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/113/hr647#summary/oursummary <https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/113/hr647#summary/oursummary>
>  
>  <applewebdata://010D3529-7F27-4D6F-98EC-B78D3F6F0251>**8 From Lawrence Carter-Long, National Council on Disability
> New Year's Message 2015
> The beginning of a new year is a natural time to pause and ask, “What will the future hold for people with disabilities?”  When marking the 25th anniversary of landmark legislation like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as we will in 2015, this forward look is not only more likely, it is arguably more important.  A new year provides a perfect opportunity to contemplate the future by looking back. 
> 
> Since becoming law in 1990, the ADA has assisted millions of people with disabilities overcome and eliminate barriers in all areas of society, from schools and the workplace to housing and public transportation.  The National Council on Disability (NCD) proposed what became the ADA as part of our mandate to find ways to empower individuals with disabilities with the resources and means to achieve economic self-sufficiency, live independently, and be included and integrated into all aspects of society. Today, our role has evolved to gather information about the implementation, effectiveness and influence of the ADA.
> 
> For a quarter of a century, the ADA has been a legislative foundation to create more inclusive communities where people with disabilities live, work, and play on their own terms.  Not incidentally, while doing so the rest of society has learned more about what people with disabilities can achieve, if given a fair shake and equal access.
> 
> As one of the landmark civil rights laws of the 20th century, with the likes of retiring Senator Tom Harkin dubbing it the “Emancipation Proclamation for people with disabilities,” the ADA seeks nothing special. Put simply, it provides the legislative foundation to ensure that people with disabilities can go places and do things that many, if not most,  non-disabled Americans take for granted.  As the slogan emblazoned on the back of countless wheelchairs reminds society even today, to finally, “boldly go where others have gone before.”  
> 
> That is no small feat.  
> 
> Over the past 25 years, the ADA has provided opportunity and access for more approximately 57 million Americans with disabilities. Prior to passage of this landmark civil rights legislation, Americans with disabilities routinely faced discrimination, stigma and barriers of both imagination and architecture in their everyday lives. And while there is still more work to do, we can now assuredly say that across this great nation, Americans with disabilities now have more opportunities than ever before to participate more fully in the civic, social and economic heartbeat of our communities through the steady reduction of obstacles to employment, transportation, public services, telecommunications and in public accommodations.
> 
> When the ADA was passed in 1990, and not too long ago when the ADA amendments became law in January 2009, bipartisanship in Congress made such progress possible.  Today, headlines are dominated more by a sense of frustration and political gridlock.  While issues related to employment, transportation and education remain central in our work no one could have imagined the ways that technology would help level the playing field in just over two short decades, nor could we imagine the concerns we’d be facing with Social Security, healthcare and Medicare reform or predict that parenting with a disability would be the next wave of civil rights efforts or that the threat of violence against people with disabilities would reach levels never before documented.  
> 
> While much progress has been made there is clearly much more work to do. 
> 
> As the ADA marches and rolls steadily toward its 3rd decade and on into adulthood, its 25th anniversary provides an opportunity to recommit to the next generation of disability rights leaders and advocates.  May 2015 mark an era of renewed, vigorous support for the NextGen of individuals with disabilities who will, in the not too distant future, become the mentors and role models for the young people with disabilities who are currently benefiting from changes that the ADA, to a large degree, made possible. 
> 
> Just as the disability community will continue work to make certain people with disabilities are included at the decision-making table on every level we must lead by example by ensuring that we include diverse representation from across our nation by making a deliberate effort to bridge racial, religious, sexual, and socio-economic lines.  This means, over two decades since the ADA became law, that we must not only demand a place at the table, but also set it and make sure when we assemble the guest list that there are always seats for our allies while making sure that they hold seats for us.
> 
> Throughout 2015, NCD will spotlight lessons of the ADA’s legacy on our website, listserv, on social media and related activities.  We’ll share exciting glimpses of, and plans for, the future of disability policy and inclusion in the United States.  We look forward to sharing these with you and to celebrating the ADA’s legacy and moving forward toward a more inclusive future in 2015 and beyond. 
> 
> Thank you for your support of NCD through 30 years of contribution, including all the Council members, staff, and other personnel of many administrations who have steadfastly supported the important work of the agency. The ADA was imagined and eventually realized through sustained effort by the disability community and its champions.  NCD supports your leadership and vision in the evolutionary progress of fulfilling America’s potential and promises through the ADA.
> 
> National Council on Disability 
> 1331 F Street, NW, Suite 850 
> Washington, DC 20004 
> 202-272-2004 Voice 
> 202-272-2074 TTY 
> 202-272-2022 Fax 
> 
> Website: 
> http://www.ncd.gov/ <http://www.ncd.gov/>
> Get regular updates via NCD’s Facebook page:
> https://www.facebook.com/NCDgov <https://www.facebook.com/NCDgov>
> Follow NCD on Twitter:
> http://twitter.com/NatCounDis <http://twitter.com/NatCounDis>
> Sign up for regular email updates at:
> http://www.ncd.gov/subscribe <http://www.ncd.gov/subscribe>
>  
>  <applewebdata://010D3529-7F27-4D6F-98EC-B78D3F6F0251>**9 From Mark A. Riccobono, President National Federation of the Blind
> Dear Friends:
> Welcome to 2015 and the year that we celebrate our tremendous history and bright future in the National Federation of the Blind.
>  
> The start of a new year always brings excitement for the time ahead. This year is no different and it is starting quickly in the Federation. Our Florida affiliate has its annual convention next weekend and our national parents division will be having a leadership meeting here at the NFB Jernigan Institute that same weekend. With a new Congress, our members across the country are poised to educate newly elected legislators about blindness and the barriers that prevent us from living the lives we want. In 2015 we will see our Braille enrichment programs expand to even more states and our continued advocacy for blind individuals will ensure that misunderstanding about the capacity of blind people does not create artificial barriers between blind people and their dreams.
>  
> In 2015, we are certain that the success of our organization will continue to be reliant upon having a strong diverse network of blind people working together to make the world better and turn dreams into reality. One person at a time, we have established the most powerful network of information, resources, and support for the blind anywhere in the world. However, there are still blind people who are not yet connected. As you are reading this, a person has gone blind and is wondering what kind of future he or she will have. We need your help to get newly blinded individuals connected to the National Federation of the Blind so they will know that vision is not a requirement for success in their lives.
>  
> Please make connecting blind people with the network of the National Federation of the Blind one of your renewed commitments for 2015. It is one of the most important things you can do, and it will have ripple effects that you will never know.
>  
> Happy New Year to you!
> 
>  <applewebdata://010D3529-7F27-4D6F-98EC-B78D3F6F0251>**10 From Terry Smith, NFBEI
> THE BLITZ
> October – December, 2014
> Remember the good old days when very little happened during the holidays?  I mean nothing used to ever get done between Thanksgiving and the start of the New Year.  That’s why I decided to wait and do The Blitz after the holidays thinking there wouldn’t’ be much to report.  Well, when you are wrong you might as well be really wrong.  As you will see from the content below, the last couple of months have been very busy and it’s not all good news.  Let’s get to it.
>  
> Army Multi-State Contract Could Spell Multi-Blind Entrepreneur Disaster – While most of us were wrapping up our last minute Christmas shopping, the Army was busy at work exploring the possibility of combining 11 troop dining contracts into a single multi-state contract.  The Army issued a Sources Sought Notice (SSN) to see who is out there that might be willing and able to do a multi-state contract that would include 11 bases in 10 states.  Ironically, all 11 contracts are currently managed by Randolph-Sheppard entrepreneurs.  Coincidence?  Not likely.  We immediately went to work.  We are mobilizing stakeholders to fight this politically.  We are engaged with the 10 states to keep them and the affected entrepreneurs informed and exploring options if the Army goes through with an RFP.  We’re also discussing the matter with RSA.  The bad news is RSA is on record as saying that such multi-state contracts do not violate the Randolph-Shepard Act and is not likely to change that position.  RSA maintains that the states must be creative in responding to such RFP’s.  We are trying to show RSA that such multi-state contracts effectively render the priority useless but we are not optimistic that their position will change.  The good news is the Army is just looking at who has the capacity to manage such a contract.  We have time to fight this and will fight it.  We will keep you posted.
>  
> A Hidden Surprise in Defense Bill Puts R-S on Defense – You can imagine our surprise when we discovered there was report language with the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that seems to direct the Department of Defense to promulgate rules that fully implement the now infamous Joint Policy Statement.  We are still researching the implications of this language and whether or not it truly is prescriptive.  Either way, we have a fight on our hands.  For those of you who weren’t around 7 years ago when RSA, the Department of Defense, and the President’s Committee developed the dreadful Joint Policy Statement, the three federal entities essentially agreed that in order for the Randolph-Sheppard priority to apply, the SLA’s bid had to be within 5% or $1 Million (whichever is less) of the lowest bid.  That means that on a $100 Million 5-year contract, the SLA’s bid had to be within $1 Million of the lowest bid, which meant our priority was less than 1%.  That is no priority at all especially when you consider other set aside program enjoy as much as a 10% variance.  The Policy Statement also clarified that the Randolph-Sheppard priority does NOT apply to dining facility attendant services.  It applies only to full-food contracts.  Fortunately, regulations implementing the Joint Policy Statement were never promulgated.  The Randolph-Sheppard stakeholders got very active and the Department of Education may have realized that the policy it had agreed to actually violated the Act.  For whatever reason, RSA did not promulgate rules.  Since they did not do so, it appears Congress may be directing the Department of Defense to do so.  What would be the impact?  If the policy as written is fully implemented, Randolph-Sheppard will soon be out of the troop dining business – at least to the extent it is now.  We will fight this.  We still maintain the Joint Policy statement violates the Act.  We strongly believe that language in a bill’s report does not amend the Randolph-Sheppard Act which would be required to implement such regulations.  We are developing strategies as The Blitz goes to press.  But it will take all Randolph-Sheppard stakeholders to get involved and we will be telling you how you can do that.  This affects you even if you are not one of the 40+ entrepreneurs on a military base.  We are all affected when any opportunity for a blind person is lost.  When we fought off the Portman Amendment in 2012, it wasn’t just rest area entrepreneurs who got involved.  It was all blind vendors.  This time it can’t be just entrepreneurs on military bases.  Get ready.
>  
> To Register or Not to Register: That is the Question – We were advised by NAMA in late November that the law requires those companies that store food in the food distribution process must register with the FDA.  We were totally unaware of the law that was passed in 2003 following 9/11 as a measure to protect the nation’s food supply against terrorism.  NAMA first told us that the requirement to register with the FDA applied to blind vendors but upon further conversation with the FDA clarification was provided indicating that only those vendors who have a stand-alone warehouse must register.  The requirement does not apply to vendors with on-site storage with their vending facilities.  It is our interpretation that this would include entrepreneurs who have storage on-site and take product to serve nearby satellite locations.  From what we are being told, it only applies if the entrepreneur has a warehouse that functions as the hub of the operation with product being delivered by truck to vending sites.  Consequently, the requirement to register applies to a small minority of blind entrepreneurs but there are still several who technically should register.  Interestingly, it appears there are no penalties for not complying with the registration requirement.  We have been told that many NAMA members have chosen to ignore the requirement.  We would never advise anyone to ignore the law.   Our job is simply to inform.  It is up to the individual entrepreneurs to decide if they will register.
>  
> Training On-Line January 19th – The long awaited on-line entry level training for prospective blind entrepreneurs is here.  Beginning January 19th, students can start enrolling in this exciting new training program being provided in conjunction with the Hadley School for the Blind.  Vocational Rehabilitation counselors will be able to refer their clients to the training at a cost of $3,500 per client.  Students will be provided individualized codes to access the training and can complete the training at their own pace.  Once they complete all modules, it is recommended that they be provided an on-the-job training experience in their respective states.  We believe that this training will standardize training nationwide and will enable states to attract quality candidates that they were missing out on previously.  Additionally, the training will save VR agencies money, as the training being provided through Hadley is less expensive than providing center based training as many states now do.  We anticipate several enrollees on Day 1 and expect to see the program grow steadily.  This joint venture between NABM and Hadley is helping all of us rethink the way training is provided to prospective Randolph-Sheppard vendors in this country.
>  
> GAO Issues Report – If you recall, we reported previously that the GAO was looking at the effectiveness of the implementation of the Heath and Sustainability Guidelines for Federal Concessions and Vending Operations, which were jointly released by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the General Services Administration (GSA).  On December 23rd, GAO published the report, Federal Food Service Operations: Implementation of the HHS/GSA Health and Sustainability Guidelines (GAO-15-262R).  This report is available for download on the GAO website at http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-15-262R.  The report shows some inconsistencies in the implementation of the guidelines.  The report cited the perceived conflict between the goals of entrepreneurs which are profit driven and the goals of the federal agencies which are to make more healthy products available to employees.  The report also cites the fact that federal entities cannot force blind vendors to sell certain products.  The report does not include specific steps required to fully implement the guidelines.  Interestingly, we have learned that the guidelines will be revisited this year and we will monitor developments in that regard.  
>  
> Sign, Sign, Show Me a Sign – In November, the FDA issued the long awaited rules related to calorie disclosure on vending machines.  After much hand wringing, it appears the rules are a best-case scenario for blind entrepreneurs.  The rules allow signs that are conspicuously placed in, on, or adjacent to the vending machine.  No signage is required if the calorie content is clearly visible on the product’s packaging.  The requirement does not go into effect until December 1, 2016 so we have almost 2 years to get ready.  It is also important to note that the requirement does not apply to operators with fewer than 20 vending machines.  The 20-machine threshold applies to the blind entrepreneur and not the SLA. 
>  
> Setting the Standard But Why? – The Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) recently issued a Sources Sought Notice to see if there are companies out there that might have the capacity to develop Randolph-Sheppard training standards.  RSA apparently is interested in developing standards to be utilized by state VR agencies when training prospective blind entrepreneurs.  On the surface, this sounds like a laudable idea.  However, we are concerned that this idea was developed with no participation by the Randolph-Sheppard community.  The SSN raised more questions than answers.  How is it that RSA would undertake such an initiative without even a whisper until the SSN became public?  What are the benefits to developing standards that are not enforceable without the promulgation of regulations?  Does RSA really plan to open up the Randolph-Sheppard regs or will these “standards” just be voluntary guidelines?  Some have suggested such standards will benefit the NABM / Hadley on-line training and that is probably correct.  But why develop standards AFTER the development of the first national training curriculum?  Developing standards may be a worthwhile endeavor.  We just think if RSA has such resources available to devote to enhancing the Randolph-Sheppard program nationwide, there should be discussions with the Randolph-Sheppard community to decide how those dollars can be maximized.
>  
> Entrepreneurs of Excellence – Last year, NABM and Hadley announced its new Entrepreneur of Excellence Program.  Under this program, candidates can enroll in certain business related Hadley courses, and once they complete the designated courses / modules, they earn the designation as an Entrepreneur of Excellence.  We have had our first 3 graduates of the program.  Heather Schey of Rhode Island and Gary Nelson of Colorado were the first two to complete the program and both were recognized at BLAST in November.  More recently, Todd Williams of Tennessee earned the designation.  Congratulations to these three Entrepreneurs of Excellence. There are currently over 60 other entrepreneurs enrolled.  Learn more by going to the Hadley website at www.hadley.edu.  Enroll now and improve your skills as a business owner.  
>  
> Colorado Blind Entrepreneur Wins NAMA Scholarship – Gary Nelson, a blind entrepreneur in Colorado, became the first ever blind entrepreneur to earn a NAMA scholarship to participate in the NAMA sponsored Executive Development Program at Michigan State University.  He was one of 3 scholarship recipients.  Gary tells us it was a very worthwhile experience.  “The NAMA EDP program is an exceptional opportunity to learn, develop insights, and grow in leadership,” he said. “It is designed for senior level leaders in vending, coffee service, and foodservice. The areas of focus are finance, marketing, operations and human resource management,” said Nelson.  “I highly recommend this program to help prepare one to be an executive. The concepts and tools provided by the professors in this program have truly enhanced my strategic planning knowledge and leadership skills.”  Are you interested in this outstanding training opportunity?  Gary would be happy to share with you more about his experience.  He can be contacted at support at vendingimprovementprogram.com.  Information is also available on the NAMA website. 
>  
> Lone Star BLAST Biggest and Best Ever - They always say Texas does things bigger and better than anyone else.  If BLAST, which was held in Austin, Texas in November, is any indication, truer words were never spoken.  Records were shattered as over 600 people registered.  We got nothing but rave reviews from those in attendance.  It was the largest and best tradeshow ever with over 70 exhibitors.  The quality of the speakers was outstanding with a perfect mix of motivation and learning.  It truly was a phenomenal experience.  Credit must be given to Kevan Worley and his team and to NABM President Nicky Gacos.  Also, a big thank you goes out to Texas BET Director Michael Hooks and the Elected Committee of Blind Vendors who supported this conference.  Now, the trick is how do we outdo it next year?  We are already at work on that.  We aren’t able to announce anything yet but we are looking at yet another new and exciting destination.  You will want to be there in 2016.   That’s right – 2016.  After the Lone Star BLAST, President Gacos was under a lot of pressure to do another one this fall but for now we are sticking with our every 18 months schedule.  Like anything else, we will reconsider that policy but we are now looking at the next BLAST being held in the spring of 2016.
>  
> Attorney / Staff Training Exceeds Expectations – In conjunction with BLAST, we conducted a one-day preconference training geared toward state attorneys and BEP staff.  We literally had standing room only until the hotel brought in extra tables.  The total count was a whopping 129 participants.  The feedback we received from those who attended was great.  During the morning, the state attorneys and BEP staff were together and heard presentations from the most renowned Randolph-Sheppard attorneys in the country.  In the afternoon, they separated.  The attorneys continued their training on Vocational Rehabilitation issues while the BEP staff continued with presentations on other Randolph-Sheppard topics.  We had over 75% of the states in attendance, which is a testament to how hungry state agency folks are for quality training.
>  
> No Change for U.S. Change – If Congress accepts the recommendation of the U.S. Mint, there will be no change in metallic content of the U.S. coins.  As required by the Coin Modernization, Oversight, and Continuity Act, the Mint issued its Biennial Report and it contained a recommendation that no changes be made in an effort to reduce the cost of producing U.S. coins.  According to testimony provided by stakeholders, changing the metallic coin content would cost the industry between $2.4 and $6 Billion to modify vending machines and other equipment to accommodate the change.    It would have cost state SLA’s literally millions of dollars.  NAMA testified before the Mint on the impact such a change would have.  NABM President Nicky Gacos, who serves on NAMA’s Government Affairs Committee, testified as to the effect such action would have on blind entrepreneurs.   Congress has the final say but this report should go a long way toward killing the move.  Congratulations to all.
>  
> Free Currency Readers Now Available – The Bureau of Engraving and Printing has announced persons legally residing in the U.S. who are blind or visually impaired can now request a free currency reader from the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) by downloading the required application from the BEP’s website (www.bep.gov). The application must be filled out completely, signed by a competent authority that can certify eligibility, and returned to the mailing address provided on the form. Estimated delivery time is 6-8 weeks.  The currency reader device, called iBill Currency Identifier, provides a convenient means for blind or visually impaired individuals to identify all U.S. bills. The U.S. Currency Reader Program is a component of the BEP’s initiative to provide meaningful access to Federal Reserve notes. For more information call toll-free 844-815-9388 or email at meaningful.access at bep.gov.
>  
> Prevention Council Holds Meeting to Discuss Randolph-Sheppard – The National Prevention Council, part of the U.S. Surgeon General’s Office, sponsored a meeting in D.C. in October to discuss working with Randolph-Sheppard to promote the healthy guidelines.  Interestingly, the meeting was scheduled and planned without any discussions with anyone in the Randolph-Sheppard community.  Once we heard about it and spread the word, a number of Randolph-Sheppard stakeholders showed up for the conference.  Both Kevan Worley and Nicky Gacos attended on behalf of NABM.  Kevan was on the agenda.  The conference, which apparently had some contentious moments, at least helped begin the dialogue.  We need to be at the table but we also need to ensure that we protect the livelihoods of blind entrepreneurs.
>  
>  Nicky G. Goes to the Hill – NABM President Nicky Gacos was in D.C. in October to work with NAMA’s Government Affairs Committee to advance the interests of the vending industry with government officials.  He met with the Under Secretary of Agriculture and the U.S. Mint.  He was there representing the overall interests of all blind entrepreneurs. 
>  
> Trucking Right Along – One of the highlights of the tradeshow at BLAST was the demonstration of the food truck that has great potential for the Randolph-Sheppard Program.  John Murn, who you probably know as the person who started the RSA Buying Group, is part of a company that is building pizza trucks and offering them for sale or lease to state SLA’s.  The truck stirred a lot of excitement and several states are seriously looking at the truck as an option for a blind entrepreneur.  When you think about it, the pizza truck is nothing more than a vending facility on wheels.  The advantage it has is that it is mobile and can be used at multiple locations.  At lunch, the blind entrepreneur can have the truck on a college campus and that night outside of a concert hall.  As long as you get the proper permits, you’re not limited to government properties.  This is just one of the creative approaches we need to move the Randolph-Sheppard Program forward.   For information about the trucks, contact John Murn at jmurn at rsabuyingroup.com     
>  
> Playing a Little Game of Follow the Leader- Do you ever wonder where the next generation of Randolph-Sheppard leaders will come from?  Who will step up when today’s leaders are gone?  Guys like Nicky Gacos and Kevan Worley aren’t getting any younger.  Terry Smith has already retired once and at some point will want to get off the road and spend time with grandchildren.  At BLAST, NABM President Nicky Gacos announced an exciting new initiative for 2015 which he is calling the Emerging Leaders Program.  We will be looking for 25 current blind entrepreneurs under the age of 50 who have an interest in leadership.  Whether your interest is in serving on the Elected Committee of Blind Vendors, being a state leader, or moving into national leadership, you may be interested in participating.  It will require your attendance at a national training conference, participation in special sessions at BLAST, and participation on conference calls.   If you are interested, contact Nicky Gacos at nickycolorado at netscape.net.
>  
> Your Honor: Can You Please Make the VA Abide by the Law? – Oregon is going for the gold.  They are taking the Department of Veterans’ Affairs to federal court in an effort to enforce an arbitration decision.  An arbitration panel had found the VA in violation of the Act but the VA has advised the SLA that it does not intend to comply with the ruling even though the law says such rulings are binding.  We applaud the Oregon SLA for taking this action to enforce the priority.  We are optimistic that the SLA will prevail.  What happens then will be the interesting thing.  The federal court in at least one case was not willing to force the VA to comply.  In the meantime, we continue to work toward a political solution and will still work diligently to bring the VA into compliance with the law one way or another.
>  
> Seeing the Country One State at a Time – It was a busy couple of months as far as getting out and working with the states.  In October, Terry Smith and Nicky Gacos were in Georgia helping the Georgia BEP celebrate its 75th anniversary.  Congratulations to the Georgia BEP.  Terry delivered the banquet address on making a difference.  Later that month, Terry and NABM President Nicky Gacos were in Chicago speaking at the Illinois annual training conference.  Terry attended his first NFB of Colorado convention and had the honor of speaking to the merchants division as well as the general session.  Also, in November, Terry presented at the National Council of State Agencies for the Blind Fall Training Conference in Miami.  The next week he was at BLAST.  In early December, he traveled to Michigan to conduct training for the Elected Committee of Blind Vendors and later that month was in D.C.  Can you say jet lag?
>  
> Merchants Will Meet at NFB Washington Seminar – NABM President Nicky Gacos has announced that the merchants will meet as part of NFB’s Washington Seminar on Monday afternoon, January 26th.  A terrific agenda is being planned and all merchants are encouraged to attend.  If you’ve never attended a Washington Seminar, make this your first.  It will change your life.  For information about the merchants meeting, contact Mr. Gacos at nickycolorado at netscape.net.
>  
> You Say Goodbye and I Say Hello – At the end of December, Jack Kennedy said goodbye to the Kentucky BEP after accepting another position.  We wish Jack the very best.  Kentucky hopes to find a quality person to replace Jack as the BEP Director.  If you know a good candidate, ask them to email allisson.flanagan at ky.gov.  In January, we welcomed Xavier Trimiew as the new BEP Director in Virginia.  Welcome aboard Xavier.
>  
> Sustaining the NFBEI – Do you like what the NFBEI is doing to advocate for the program on a national level and to assist individual state programs?  If so, we can use your financial support.  If you would like to contribute to the cause, we would welcome your donation.  Please contact Terry Smith about making a tax-deductible donation.
>  
> Almost half of our funding comes from state agencies who take advantage of our membership / subscription service.  Currently, 26 states participate and a couple more may soon be coming on board.  We are very proud of this level of participation.  You can help ensure our future funding by encouraging your state to join in.  A recommendation from the Elected Committee of Blind Vendors would carry a lot of weight in a state’s decision.  Remember, a state can use set aside dollars, state or highway unassigned funds, and/or federal dollars to pay for the membership / subscription service. 
>  
> Terry Smith
> NFB Entrepreneurs Initiative
> tsmith at nfb.org <mailto:tsmith at nfb.org>
> (423) 468-4969
>  
> Does that sound like a slow holiday season to you?  Me either and we don’t expect it to slow down anytime soon.  We will be keeping stakeholders updated on any developments as they occur.  In the meantime, if there are developments in your state that we need to bring to the attention of the community at large, please share the information with us.  We’ll be happy to share.
>  
>  <applewebdata://010D3529-7F27-4D6F-98EC-B78D3F6F0251>**11 From Vending Market Watch
> NAMA Introduces New Coffee Service Video -
> (CHICAGO) January 5, 2014 – To ring in the new year, NAMA announced today the release of a new Coffee Service video, providing a brief but powerful overview of the coffee service segment of the vending and refreshment services industry.
>  
> “This video was produced to serve as a valuable tool for operators to share with key stakeholders.  At the same time, our team will use it throughout the country to support government affairs activities to communicate important elements of coffee service, including business growth opportunities, consumer benefits as well as the coffee production process,” said Howard Chapman, NAMA Chair Elect.
>  
> “An important goal for 2015 is to develop more videos as important tools for our members to use and a platform for sharing our industry’s story more broadly,” said Roni Moore, NAMA VP of Marketing and Communications.
>  
> “Coffee Service, including tea and water, has grown steadily,” she continued. “This video will help introduce the concept more fully to our stakeholders, ensuring consumers, lawmakers and new industry members have a better understanding of the breadth and scope of this important channel,” she continued.”
>  
> “We thank those who contributed their valuable insights and expertise to this video, including Pete Tullio, NAMA Chair and Dean Gilland, NAMA VP of Sales and Service,” Moore concluded.
>  
> The Coffee Service Industry video can be viewed on the NAMA YouTube page here: http://bit.ly/1DqtN7l <http://bit.ly/1DqtN7l> .
>  
> Founded in 1936, NAMA is the association representing the $42 billion U.S. vending and refreshment service industry.  With more than 1800 member companies – including many of the world’s most recognized brands – NAMA provides advocacy, education and research for its membership. Visit NAMA on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
>  
>  <applewebdata://010D3529-7F27-4D6F-98EC-B78D3F6F0251>**12 From RSA Buying Group
> From the USG Website: 
> Attn: USG Members in order to receive Mars Price Protection Rebate of 8.9% for Q115 you have to be a minimum of 107% to PYQ Dollars!!
>  
> First Quarter 2015 Frito News Item appears on the USG Purchase Power Promotions Calendar as: 1.375 oz LSS Cheetos Puffs Cheese Flavored
>  
> Top 20 Purchase Power Products Since 12/30/14
> Diet Mt Dew 24/20oz
> Chips Ahoy Snack Size Cookie 60/2oz.
> Mt Dew Code Red
> Cafe Delight Creamer Canisters
> Cafe Delight Sugar Canisters
> Mt Dew Throwback
> Easy Mac Cup Original
> Pop-Tarts Frosted Strawberry
> Mt Dew Live Wire
> Lipton Iced Tea Lemon Single 24/20oz.
> Mt Dew Voltage
> Lipton Green Tea Citrus Single 24/20oz
> MAXWELL HOUSE Special Delivery Filter Pack 6/7/1.2 oz.
> Welch's Mixed Fruit Snacks 48/2.25oz
> Lipton Iced Tea Peach 24/20oz.
> Splenda 500 ct Bulk Sweetener Packets
> Lipton Diet Green Tea Citrus Single 24/20oz
> Pop-Tarts Frosted Brown Sugar Cinnamon
> OSCAR MAYER Lunchables TurkeyCheddar
> Mt Dew White Out
>  
>  <applewebdata://010D3529-7F27-4D6F-98EC-B78D3F6F0251>**13 CSI HOT LIST <applewebdata://010D3529-7F27-4D6F-98EC-B78D3F6F0251> - (Overstocks, Short Expiration Dates, or Items being Discontinued) *** LOWER PRICING *** January 8, 2015 To take advantage of the special pricing on the items shown below, you must CALL 312-987-9500, Ext. 119 (Outside Chicago 800-987-9501) Be sure to tell Pat or Debbie you’re ordering from this Hot List Subject to stock on hand when your order is received.  CSI rebate program does not apply to Hot List Items.
>  
> Item#
> Description
> Qty Available
> Expiration
> Discounted Case Price
> 2454
> KRAFT: HAM & SWISS CRACKER STACKED LUNCHABLES  4.5oz  16ct
> 10
> 1/18/2015
> 12.00
> MBS
> HANDGARDS: GLOVE WITH MICROBAN - OEG-MB10/100S
> 23
> N/A
> 37.00
> 21388252
> ATLANTIC MILLS: ^KERRI KLEAN WHITE WIPER  14.6X13.5    150CT
> 7
> N/A
> 35.00
> 21380104
> ATLANTIC MILLS: WHITE WIPER NON-WOVEN  14.6X13.5    500CT
> 25
> N/A
> 40.00
> 18208916
> R3 CHICAGO: ^COZY CUP HOLDER  For ER7 12CT
> 20
> N/A
> 3.00
> 12508084
> R3 CHICAGO: ^DART SQUAT FOAM CUP  4.0oz  1000ct
> 12
> N/A
> 12.00
> 13400023
> R3 CHICAGO: ^CARRY TRAY  250CT
> 26
> N/A
> 31.00
> 34780122
> GENPAK: ^BLACK FOAM BOWL  12.0oz  1000ct
> 19
> N/A
> 30.00
> 34780146
> GENPAK: BLACK LAMINATED FOAM PLATE  8.875  500ct
> 7
> N/A
> 28.00
> 34780148
> GENPAK: ^OVAL PLATTER  500CT
> 16
> N/A
> 30.00
> 34784030
> EXTRA LARGE HOAGIE CONTAINER  13-3/16 X 4-1/2 X 3-1/8  200CT
> 35
> N/A
> 40.00
> 34780176
> GENPAK: ^HINGED 1 COMPT CONT. *LARGE*  9-1/4 X 9-1/4 X 3  200CT
> 37
> N/A
> 20.00
> SMR8
> INT PAPER: MANUAL HOT CUP AVANTI  8oz  1000ct
> 10
> N/A
> 49.13
> DMR16P
> INT PAPER: PEPSI COLD DRINK CUP  16.0oz  1000ct
> 7
> N/A
> 50.31
> 000804
> TROPICANA: PE TWISTER STRAWBERRY KIWI CYCLONE 20oz 12ct
> 89
> 1/27/2015
> 10.00
> 46188
> HORMEL: HOT CHILI WITH BEANS  7.5oz  12ct  CAN
> 9
> 1/31/2015
> 10.00
> 12836
> PARAMOUNT FARMS: ^WONDERFUL PISTACHIOS  1.0oz  96ct
> 18
> 2/18/2015
> 54.00
> 8998
> KAR NUT: ^SALTED ALMONDS  3.0oz  42ct
> 8
> 5/15/2015
> 38.00
> 6951
> SUGAR FOODS: COSMOS CARAMEL  .7oz  50ct
> 5
> 1/26/2015
> 16.00
> 6953
> SUGAR FOODS: COSMOS CINNAMON CRUNCH  .7oz  50ct
> 5
> 1/30/2015
> 16.00
> 10400
> SCONZA: DARK CHOCOLATE ALMONDS SUGAR FREE  3.0oz  12ct
> 7
> 1/30/2015
> 16.00
> 10964
> CRUNCH'N MUNCH: TOFFE with PEANUTS  1.0oz 72ct
> 26
> 1/25/2015
> 16.00
> 15940
> FRITO: ROLD GOLD WHOLE GRAIN RICH HEARTZELS  .7oz  104ct
> 2
> 1/27/2015
> 25.00
> 18792
> FRITO: ^TOSTITOS REDUCED FAT WHOLE GRAIN  .875oz  104ct
> 5
> 1/27/2015
> 25.00
> 21910
> FRITO: REDUCED FAT CHEETOS PUFFS  .7oz  72ct
> 10
> 1/27/2015
> 18.00
> 44429
> FRITO: LSS LAY'S KETTLED COOKED JALAPENO  1.375 64CT
> 9
> 1/27/2015
> 22.00
> 44439
> FRITO: LSS SMARTFOOD WHITE CHEDDAR POPCORN 1oz 64ct
> 2
> 1/27/2015
> 22.00
> 82331
> ORVILLE REDENBACHER: ^CLASSIC KETTLE KORN  1.0oz  63ct
> 19
> 1/24/2015
> 20.00
> 00106
> 1ST NATIONAL BAGEL: IW PLAIN BAGEL W/ 1oz CREAM CHEESE 3oz 24ct
> 41
> FROZEN
> 13.00
> 91040
> CAMINO REAL: ^BEAN & CHEESE BURRITO  10.0oz  12ct
> 3
> FROZEN
> 12.50
> 101051
> LANDSHIRE: ^*BIG DADDY HAM & CHEESE  6.0oz  12ct
> 9
>  FROZEN
> 23.00
>  
>  
> Thank you, 
> Kathy Ungaro
> 
> Illinois Committee of Blind Vendors 
> 53 W. Jackson Blvd. Suite 502 
> Chicago, IL 60604 
> (630)234-4444
> 
> 
> 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.