Indiana Business Enterprises

 
Business Leadership and Superior Training (BLAST) was launched in March of 2002 in Las Vegas, NV. The goal of BLAST for the past 7 years has been to take training for blind vendors and State Agency personnel to a whole new level. This is accomplished by:

• Increasing networking and educational opportunities;
• Bringing concentrated upward mobility training to all blind vendors;
• Developing and providing high value education;
• Offering highest quality, consumer driven training motivation and networking roundtables
  

Thank you for joining us as we continue to raise standards and expectations to a whole new level!

Blackstone Consulting Inc	Cantu Services Inc
Quiznos Subs	State of Indiana

   

Pepsi	Nayyarsons
Otis Spunkmeyer	Sam’s Club / Wal-Mart
American Service Contractors

   

Southern Food Service Management	Brown, Goldstein & Levy
Cantaloupe	Coca-Cola Company
LaBarre Law Office	Sodexo
Vistar	Dunkin Brands
Cibus LLC

ServiceSource	EC Management Services
Son’s Quality Foods	Burger King
The Law Offices of Dulske & Gluys, P.C.	Nestle
National Vending	Einstein Bros. Bagels

   

Shaffer Distributing

InData

   

The National Association of Blind Merchants would like to take this opportunity to offer a very special thank you to our Indiana hosts. This is the first BLAST hosted by Indiana Business Enterprises and we are grateful for their hospitality. The Indiana Business Enterprises’ commitment to highest quality upward mobility training for all managers and staff is one of many factors which has made it a program held in highest regard throughout the Randolph-Sheppard industry. Thank you, Indiana Business Enterprises.

Pamela Schnurr	Noor Allain
Greg Jinks	Bridget Worley
Nick Gacos	Kimberly Ballard

   
Note: Upon registration at the BLAST conference you should have been given a BLAST name badge. This badge must be worn at all conference activities as it will serve as your prepaid ticket to all seminars, receptions, tradeshow, breakfasts and luncheon.

Balance for Life – Making your Vending Machines Make Money for You
Using Remote Monitoring in your Vending Business
Increase Sales with Otis Spunkmeyer
Stress Management
Vending 101
Envision America
Covering your bases, the basics to starting your own business
Exclusive SLA Roundtable
KNFB Reader
Relaxation through Yoga
Franchising and Licensing

11:00am

Registration If you haven’t pre-registered, please do so! If you have pre-registered, please stop at the registration desk to pick up your name badge and other BLAST materials.  Remember that your name badge must be worn during all BLAST activities. It is your prepaid ticket which shows that you have registered. Registration will remain open until 8pm.

12:00pm

Randolph-Sheppard Transformation Discussion Luncheon (Marriott 9-10) This is our 2nd annual Transformation Discussion Luncheon; a BLAST bonus kickoff event. It was so popular last year and gave us much food for thought; we are bringing it back. Cost of luncheon is not included in the basic BLAST registration rate. This is a luncheon for all who wish to discuss the current status of the Randolph-Sheppard Program and how we tackle the task of transforming it. It is for those with ideas and optimism. Pre-registration is required. Master of Ceremonies: Nicky Gacos - First Vice President, National Association of Blind Merchants

    

Cantu Services, Inc. has been the leader in asserting the rights of blind merchants under the Randolph Sheppard Act, and we shall continue to lead the way in protecting the rights and way of life of our Teaming Partners!

Many lucrative contracts are either available or may be available to you through the use of our marketing, bidding and contract performance services.  Be assured that we are not newcomers in this industry. Our reputation has been built over a period of more than 25 years, during which we have successfully negotiated and operated food service contracts at more than 20 government installations.

How good have we been? Judge for yourself. On two occasions Cantu Services, Inc. received the Hennessy Trophy as the top food service operation in the United States Air Force. The United States Army has also recognized Cantu Services, Inc. as the best and received the Phillip A. Connelly Award twice.

Then, in 2002, Cantu Services, Inc. and its partners, the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services and Swanson Services, Inc. received the award again.  This was the first Connelly Award win for a Randolph Sheppard Contractor.  This win has provided positive national exposure for the Randolph Sheppard Program and has shown that Randolph Sheppard vendors can get the job done.

This is a solid business opportunity with no financial risk on the part of the blind vendor with a guaranteed income if you qualify.  None of our teaming partners has failed in the performance of a food service contract. Cantu Services, Inc. is a family owned and operated business. We welcome the opportunity to discuss this program that supports real entrepreneurship for the blind and provides continuing proven support for a real future, not just a weekly paycheck with blind individuals and state officials providing services to the blind.  Please call Bob Welch or David Gossom at (940) 569-5296 for further information.

Wednesday, April 1, 2009 (continued)

1:30 – 2:45pm    Breakout Sessions

1. Balance for Life – Making your Vending Machines Make Money for You (Marriott 7)
   Mark Walkie - Educational Coordinator,
   National Automatic Merchandising Association
2. Using Remote Monitoring in your Vending Business (Marriott 8)
   Brian Fisher - Cantaloupe Systems
3. Increase Sales with Otis Spunkmeyer (Santa Fe)
   Bill Gray - Senior Director, Special Markets
   Carolynn Wisher - Customer Development Manager, West
4. Stress Management (Marriot 1 & 2)
   Jerrille Lucas
5. Vending 101 (Marriott 3 & 4)
   Shaffer Distributing

3:00 – 4:15pm    Breakout Sessions

1. Envision America (Marriott 7)
   Chad Allen – Business and Industry Development
2. Covering your bases - The basics to starting your own Business (Marriott 8)
   Victoria Hall, MBA 
3. Increase Sales with Otis Spunkmeyer (Santa Fe)
   Bill Gray - Senior Director, Special Markets
   Carolynn Wisher - Customer Development Manager, West
4. Stress Management (Marriott 1 & 2)
   Jerrille Lucas
5. Vending 101 (Marriott 3 & 4)
       Shaffer Distributing
6. Exclusive SLA Roundtable (Marriot 9 - 10)
   Terry Smith - Director, Tennessee Services for the Blind;
   Chairman, Subcommittee on Randolph-Sheppard NCSAB

4:30– 5:45pm    Breakout Sessions

1. Balance for Life – Making your Vending Machines Make Money for you (Marriott 7)
   Mark Walkie - Educational Coordinator, NAMA
2. Using Remote Monitoring in your Business (Marriott 8)
   Brian Fisher - Cantaloupe Systems
3. KNFB Reader (Santa Fe)
   James Gashel - Vice President, Business Development,
   KNFB Reading Technologies
4. Relaxation through Yoga (Marriott 1 & 2)
   Jerrille Lucas
5. Franchising and Licensing (Marriott 3 & 4)
   Building opportunities for the blind through licensing and franchising.
   Nicky Gacos – CEO, Independence America
   Chris Burr - Senior Vice President, Special Markets, Dunkin Brands
   Tom Grady - Vice President, Marketing, Baja Fresh
   Jim Schwandt - Director, Non-traditional Development, Burger King
   Tony Valles - Sr. Director Non-traditional Development, Quiznos
   Dan Pawlak – RVP, Non-traditional Development, Focus Brands

6:00pm    Meeting of the Chairs

1. Committee Chair and Vice Chairpersons are invited to a one-hour networking roundtable. Location to be announced.

7:00– 10:00pm

1. Welcoming Reception sponsored by the Indiana Business Enterprises (Marriott 5-6)
   BLAST is known for great food and wonderful entertainment. This year will be no exception. We are proud to present the Cool City Swing Band from Indianapolis, Indiana and a bountiful buffet. This is the perfect networking event. Share ideas for success with colleagues and make lifelong friends.

Braille.org… because Braille Readers are Leaders. Did you know that only about 10% of America’s blind children are now being taught Braille? It has become a crisis. The National Federation of the Blind, in collaboration with the United States Mint, with your help, can change it. Imagine…today’s blind children with no Harry Potter, no Mark Twain, no entries in diaries about “that first true love”, limited employment prospects, because they are functionally illiterate. We can change that. You can help by purchasing the Louis Braille collectible coin from the US Mint at www.braille.org. Get the facts from the National Federation of the Blind at www.braille.org. With your help, we will double the number of blind Braille readers by 2015. United States Mint has released the first ever silver dollar with the word “Braille” embossed on the coin. The coin is to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Louis Braille, who invented the Braille code. Contributions can be made at www.braille.org. When you purchase the coin, sales will be matched dollar for dollar with contributions to fund research and education in Braille literacy. Act today; purchase your Braille collectible coin. That the blind may read. Braille Readers are Leaders. Thank you.



“Energy, experience, expertise, commitment, personal involvement, pride and communication all collectively focused in an ongoing determined quest for quality.  For it is only through quality that profit flows” - Joseph Blackstone, CEO.
 
Blackstone Consulting, Inc. (BCI) Randolph Sheppard Division provides an array of consulting, marketing, teaming and support services to State Licensing Agencies and blind vendors to maximize opportunity and profit in the Randolph Sheppard Program. 

With more than 17 years experience, BCI leads the industry with 21 accounts in twelve states and has created a standard of excellence that wins contracts, customers and confidence.

Founded in 1991 by Joseph Blackstone, Blackstone Consulting, Inc has been involved as a prime contractor with the Department of Defense on Janitorial, Full Food Service, and Mess Attendant Service contracts since April of 1992.  BCI is headquartered in Los Angeles, CA.

In 1999 Blackstone Consulting, Inc. expanded  its operations and created a new division to address the Randolph-Sheppard Program and empower blind vendors, through joint pursuit, to market, secure, establish, and operate a variety of large food service and related contracts.

The BCI Randolph Sheppard Division began in Georgia and has spread to Alaska, Hawaii and across the continental United States.  More than military feeding opportunities, the Blackstone Randolph Sheppard family of talented energetic people extends to other large cafeteria management and consulting options for both individual blind vendors and State Licensing Agencies.
310-826-4389.

BCI - Bold, Consistent, Integrity.

Thursday, April 2, 2009

6:00am	Yoga (Lincoln Room) Jerille Lucas
7:15am	Annual Leadership Breakfast Moving from the Back of the Pack to take the Lead when going for the checkered flag (Marriott 6-10) Masters of Ceremonies: Pamela Schnurr - 2nd Vice President, National Association of Blind Merchants; Gregory Jinks, Sr - Director, Indiana Business Enterprise Program Recognition of industry leading BLAST sponsors Keynote Speaker: Major General R. Martin Umbarger was appointed as The Adjutant General of Indiana on 11 March 2004 and reappointed by Governor Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. on 1 December 2004.  As The Adjutant General, Major General Umbarger's primary focus is to lead the Indiana Army and Air National Guard. Major General Umbarger began his career as an enlisted soldier for the Indiana Army National Guard in 1969.  He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant, Infantry Branch, in June 1971 after graduating from the Indiana Military Academy.  Prior to his current assignment, Major General Umbarger served as the Deputy Commanding General (Reserve Component) United States Forces Command. Other notable assignments include the Assistant Division Commander for Training, 38th Infantry Division (Mechanized).  He also served as Commanding General of the 76th Infantry Brigade (Separate), which executed a very successful Deployment and Rotation at the Joint Readiness Training Center, Fort Polk, Louisiana in May of 2000.  Major General Umbarger is currently a principal member of the Army Reserve Forces Policy Committee.
8:45am	Upward Mobility Training Session I (Marriott 6-10) Welcome, Announcements and introduction of BLAST Conference Participants. Make the connection to the power of others.
9:00am	Turning the Randolph-Sheppard Program Right Side Up Michael Hingson – CEO, The Hingson Group Michael Hingson's life changed dramatically on September 11, 2001. He and his Guide Dog "Roselle" were among those working in the World Trade Center that day, experiencing the terrorist attacks first hand. Through a remarkable demonstration of trust and teamwork, Michael and Roselle escaped from the 78th floor of Tower One moments before it collapsed. As an internationally acclaimed public speaker, Michael has traveled the world speaking on topics such as Trust and Teamwork, Turning the Tables on Terrorism and Developing One’s Personal Inner Strength and Heroism to overcome whatever challenges we face. Prior to forming The Michael Hingson Group, Michael’s career spanned nearly 30 years in senior sales and management for high tech, innovative companies.  He was recently named one of the top 10 educational speakers in the United States by the Innovators Speakers Network.
9:20am	Blind Entrepreneurial Alliance - Protecting and expanding business opportunities for the blind of America. Catriona MacDonald, - Linchpin Strategies Terry C. Smith - Director, Tennessee Services for the Blind; Chairman, Subcommittee on Randolph-Sheppard National Council of State Agencies for the Blind
9:50am	The Future of Randolph-Sheppard: The Answer is Service Confronting the Challenges, Nurturing a Partnership Ruth Ann Abrams - The United States Postal Service Nicky Gacos – First Vice President, National Association of Blind Merchants Bill Lews – Vice President, Marketing, National Vending

Celebrating its 27th anniversary, Denver-based Quiznos is a national chain designed for today's busy consumers who are looking for a tasty, freshly prepared alternative to traditional fast food restaurants. Using only premium quality ingredients, Quiznos restaurants offer creative, chef-inspired recipes for sandwiches, soups and salads. With more than 5,000 franchise restaurants, Quiznos is one of the fastest growing quick service restaurant chains. In December, Quiznos was named the "Best New Class" by QSR Magazine.

In October 2007, Quiznos was recognized for leading the QSR industry in wait time performance by the Mystery Shopping Providers Association's (MSPA) 2007 Wait Time Study. In May 2007, Zagat's consumer surveys listed Quiznos in the top 5 for Top Food, Top Facilities, Top Service and Top Overall, ahead of its direct competitors. In June 2006, Nation's Restaurant News ranked Quiznos in its Top 100 Restaurant Chains as the #1 restaurant chain in growth in number of units--five years in a row. Entrepreneur magazine in January, 2006 ranked Quiznos in its annual Top Franchise 500 as the #2 Best Overall Franchise and QSR magazine ranked the chain in its Top 50 Chains in August, 2005 as #3 by change in system-wide sales.

Thursday, April 2, 2009 (continued)

10:20am	GSA's Point Of View (POV) as Customer:  Honor the Priority Ensuring Consistent Performance Richard Daley – Senior Building Management Specialist, General Services Administration Deborah Purdie – Building Management Specialist, General Services Administration
10:50am	Break
11:10am	Access Technology of the Future is here to Empower the Blind Today Product discussions by Envision America, Franklin Electronic Publishers, KNFB Technologies, GW Micro and Freedom Scientific.
11:40am	Managing the Transformation through Creativity - Building business opportunities for the blind through new, imaginative approaches Mark Mayfield - Corporate Consultant It is seldom that you find a really funny, clean comedian and it’s seldom that you find a really captivating speaker. It’s nearly impossible to find one who is both. Known as “The Corporate Comedian”, Mark Mayfield has merged together his corporate background as a lobbyist and his comedy background as a nightclub performer to create an extremely unique and comedic presentation style.  He has received rave reviews sharing the stage with a wide variety of celebrities such as Paul Newman, Peter Frampton, Colin Powell and Bob Newhart. Mark’s philosophy is simple…say it with humor and people will take the message home.

   
    
 
I started this business in 1977 with a small store and a big idea. Now, with more than 50 sales centers throughout the United States, it’s not surprising to learn that Otis Spunkmeyer has acquired countless baked goods fans from coast to coast. In fact, Otis has the #1 branded retail muffin in America and the #1 cookie dough in foodservice outlets across the country. It just goes to show you that a clear vision and lots of hard work, not to mention some singularly fantastic recipes, make for happy consumers just like you.

Otis Spunkmeyer is proud to partner with the National Association of Blind Merchants to bring our respected brand name and quality products into your facilities and to support the training and marketing efforts of the blind merchants in Randolph Sheppard.  For more information call 1-888-ASK-OTIS.

Did you know that Otis Spunkmeyer has been the longest running financial supporter of the training and advocacy of the National Association of Blind Merchants?  Did you know that when you purchase directly from an Otis Spunkmeyer representative, a percentage of sales goes directly to support our program?

Thursday, April 2, 2009 (continued)

12:30pm	Product and Services tradeshow (Marriott 1-5) Taste and Touch the Latest and Greatest exhibits of business products, food, and technology; sponsored by the National Association of Blind Merchants. This product and services showcase will also feature special interest areas providing experts who can answer your specific questions to include: accessible technology, legal issues, partnering for military and other government contracts, social security, vending, marketing, financial planning, and more.  Go to the show! Many food service, vending and access technology exhibitors will have extraordinary specials available only for this tradeshow. Please support those companies who support the blind merchants of Randolph-Sheppard.
4:30pm	Building Connections through an Entertaining Reception in Honor of BLAST Exhibitors and Guests Entertainment by The Carl Hines Band
5:30pm	Buses load for gambling venture to Shelbyville Casino. Cost is $35.00. Includes a $10.00 play voucher and a $10.00 food voucher.

   



Pepsi-Cola is the leader in beverage innovation and has the leading brands your customers prefer. Today's consumer is seeking variety in beverage offerings and Pepsi-Cola has the top selling brands to include, Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Mountain Dew, Sierra Mist, Aquafina, Gatorade, Lipton Teas, and Tropicana juices. In addition, Pepsi offers innovative beverage equipment to include, High Visibility Vendors, glass front coolers, as well as reliable fountain equipment.  Whatever your business needs, the Pepsi-Cola Company can help your sales. “We look forward to our continuing partnership with the National Federation of the Blind and its division, the National Association of Blind Merchants, as well as all of the hardworking and innovative entrepreneurs of the Randolph-Sheppard community and the State Licensing Agency partners which support them." 

Friday, April 3, 2009

7:00am	Women’s Leadership Breakfast – A Roundtable and Networking Event (Lincoln Room) Only 23% of Randolph-Sheppard managers are women. We can do better! Guest speaker, Martha Hoover, Owner, Patachou Inc. Women, blind or sighted, will enjoy Martha’s story and spirit. Self-made and imaginative, her restaurants are known for their distinctive taste and style. National Association of Blind Merchants thanks our leaders and roundtable facilitators; Pam Schnurr (IN), Kim Williams (TN), Sharon Paris (TN), Deb Smith (IA), Lynn Reynolds (NJ)
8:00am	Corporate sponsored Continental Breakfast (Marriott 6-10)
8:30am	Upward Mobility Training Session II Chassis to Checkered Flag: Build a Winning Culture of Business Ethics (Marriott 6-10) Joan Kelley Fowler Gluys, Esq. - The Law Offices of Dulske & Gluys Joan Kelley Fowler Gluys is a co-founder of The Law Offices of Dulske & Gluys, P.C., commencing in February, 2002.  Joan practices Federal Government Contract Law, with an emphasis on bid protest actions, claims (preparation and litigation), compliance counseling and training.  She has been practicing Federal Government Contracting Law, for over twenty one years and has a nationwide clientele. Due to recent developments regarding Mandatory Disclosure and Contractor Codes of Business Ethics and Conduct, Joan’s recent speaking engagements and contractor training have focused on these issues.
9:00am	Report from RSA Suzanne Mitchell - Rehabilitation Specialist, Rehabilitation Services Administration, United States Department of Education

NAYYARSONS FOOD CORP

“Let Nayyarsons show you how to keep 100% of your profit,” says Director of operations Dennis Donnelly.  Nayyarsons has more than 15 years experience in Randolph-Sheppard and military dining.  Call Mr. Donnelly at 912-399-0220.  If you’re an agency administrator or a blind vendor contemplating new food service management opportunities, you owe it to yourself to consult with Nayyarsons first! As the Randolph-Sheppard program evolves to include significant foodservice opportunities, many states are finding that the solution is Nayyarsons. Nayyarsons is an accomplished team, dedicated to helping the SLA and blind entrepreneur leverage the priority, to increase opportunity.

Military dining contracts as well as the larger state and federal cafeterias, the solution is Nayyarsons. Consulting, partnering, planning, procurement, award, training, operations, accountability, experience, knowledge, and integrity. Don’t just assume that your program can’t benefit from a P&L operation.  First, turn to the professionals at Nayyarsons for evaluation which could lead to profit in your state. Investigate all options for state and federal cafeterias, call Nayyarsons.  You owe it to your customers.

AMERICAN SERVICE CONTRACTORS (ASC)

American Service Contractors (ASC) and their associated partner companies are proud to be Platinum Partners. Contributing to a partnership to empower blind entrepreneurs, providing expertise, manning the front line to protect Randolph-Sheppard.  ASC is a family of companies including: L&S Services, LLC - Fort Benning, Georgia; Johnson Food Services, LLC - Fort Jackson, South Carolina.   The National Association of Blind Merchants would like to thank these fine companies for the financial support necessary to provide America’s blind entrepreneurs training and opportunity. American Service Contractors, Smithville, TN.

Friday, April 3, 2009 (continued)

9:30am

The Disney Way - Transforming Randolph-Sheppard to a Disney Service Model Bill Capodagli - Co-founder, Capodagli Jackson Consulting With nearly three decades of management consulting and corporate research expertise, Bill Capodagli has authored several books including: The Disney Way: Harnessing the Management Secrets of Disney in Your Company;  The Disney Way Fieldbook: How to Implement Walt Disney's Vision of "Dream, Believe, Dare, Do" in Your Company; and Leading at the Speed of Change: Using New Economy Rules to Transform Old Economy Companies. Prior to co-founding Capodagli Jackson Consulting in 1993, Bill held managerial positions at the consulting firms of AT Kearney, Ernst & Whinney (now Ernst and Young) and Coopers & Lybrand. Bill served on the Extended Services faculty of the University of Southern Indiana from 1991-1993. Bill Capodagli has become one of the most recognizable keynote speakers in recent years, enlightening audiences with his Dreamovations approach (Dream, Believe, Dare, Do), Walt Disney's key success formula and the principles which are transforming both entrepreneurial and Fortune 500 companies alike.

10:45am

Break

   


We save people money so they can live better. It all began in 1962 in Rogers, Arkansas. And it’s been one incredible journey. What is “culture?” It’s how we treat each other, it’s our special way of doing business. It’s what makes us one of the world’s most admired companies. Our founder, Sam Walton, gave our company a sense of honor and a set of values that are still very important to us. Today, over 7,800 Wal-Mart stores and Sam’s Club locations in 16 markets worldwide employ more than 2 million associates, and serve more than 100 million customers per year. All around the world, we save people money, so they can live better. That’s good news – in any language.



Founded in 1931 by inventive genius F.A. Wittern Sr., The Wittern Group boasts a proud history of quality products and dependable service.  By assembling a number of diverse companies, The Wittern Group is able to serve all segments of the vending industry. National Vending, the logical extension of the Wittern Group, provides a full range of management services to meet the needs of our clients.  We act as a call center and central auditor for vending and food service programs.  We are a master licensee and subcontract vending locations to qualified vendors in all markets in North America.  We encourage the use of minority, disabled and woman owned vendors and have the ability to track and report their usage for our fortune 500 companies. Wittern Group distributors circle the globe making our companies' vending machines available world wide.  Our North American customers of U-Select-It enjoy complimentary toll free technical support, 80 strategically located local independent distributors and 420 service providers to guarantee that assistance is always available.  Find us online at www.Vending.com or call us toll free at 888.795.8363.

11:00am

Don’t Conform: Transform “Sing your own Song” LaDonna Gatlin The National Association of Blind Merchants is proud to spotlight a real star. LaDonna Gatlin believes one defining moment can redefine our lives. She knows firsthand that we can’t live someone else’s dream—that in order to be our personal best, we must find our own voice and “sing our own song.” LaDonna literally grew up on stage singing with her brothers--the legendary Gatlin Brothers. In the early 1970’s the Gatlins took their family harmony to Nashville. But a detour appeared on the road to stardom-- LaDonna got married. At this defining moment, she realized that success for her could be measured in a different way. So she took a giant leap of faith, chose to follow her heart, and “sing a different song” apart from her brothers. She has spent her entire career empowering people to “sing their own song” as well…to live life from the inside out…through their words, their deeds, and their actions.

12:00pm

Annual BLAST Pinnacle Luncheon (Marriott 6-10) The high point of our Indy BLAST. Spotlight on those contributing at the highest level. Without these very special corporate friends and the Indiana Business Enterprise program, BLAST would not be possible. Master of ceremonies: Kevan Worley, President, National Association of Blind Merchants. Special awards. Guest speaker; Parnell Diggs, Esq; A blind attorney in private practice in South Carolina. Member, Board of Directors, National Federation of the Blind. Audiences are always inspired by Parnell’s message – “Firefighters and Christmas Elves”.

   


Sodexo can make it happen for you. Bringing the service, the quality and value for which Sodexo is known to Randolph-Sheppard; respected throughout the government for value and variety; we are Sodexo. We are proud to be providing support for high quality, targeted continuing education for blind vendors and State Licensing Agency personnel. It is a part of Sodexo’s ongoing commitment to the community.

The leading food and facilities management services company in North America. Every day, more than 120,000 Sodexo employees work to improve the quality of daily life for our clients and customers all over the U.S.A., Canada, and Mexico. Learn more about how Sodexo can make it happen for you.



Cantaloupe Systems is a leader in remote monitoring technology for the vending industry.  With the Cantaloupe Systems solution, we help operators save thousands of dollars everyday by harnessing the power of wireless technology to create significantly more profits in their vending business.

2:00pm

Upward Mobility Training Session III - Going, Going, Going – Green. The one step at a time, balanced approach for life and business. (Marriott 6-10) BLAST attendees will receive education from an array of experts. This Friday afternoon will help us all confront the challenges and profit from possibilities of the green revolution; menu creation, energy conservation, taking advantage of new environmental paradigms. We must manage the change. Adjourn at 4:15. Keynote address – Eric Cefus, Executive Director, The Catamount Institute. Eric Cefus grew up outside of Atlanta, Ga. where he spent a lot of time at Stone Mountain State Park. At a young age, this area allowed Eric to gain full appreciation of his natural surroundings. He later earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the Georgia Institute of Technology. His professional career as an engineer then led him to living in Canada where he furthered his love of nature in the Canadian woods. For 10 years, Eric worked as an engineer and then Business Coordinator for an international engineering firm developing advanced engine technology to help improve the environment. This opportunity has allowed him to extensively travel the world and truly understand the need to conserve our natural resources. He serves on the board of directors for a local parks group, as well as a startup energy company.  Most recently, Eric served on the Catamount Institute Board of Directors before accepting the position as Executive Director 2 years ago. Eric has lived in the Colorado mountains for the past 14 years with his wife Kathy and two young children. Having children has given him the drive of meeting his personal goal to “leave the world a better place.” Experts from the Catamount Institute, General Services Administration, Sam’s club/Wal-Mart, USA Technologies, National Automatic Merchandising Association, Completely Compostable, and Excellent Packaging & Supply.

    


Southern Foodservice Management is one of America’s industry-leading onsite dining service contractors. We partner with Fortune 500 companies along with education, healthcare and government facilities throughout the country. As four-time winner of GSA’s national operator-of-the-year competition, we understand what it takes to acquire and successfully manage state and federal government dining service contracts. 

Most important, our firm has emerged as a leading Randolph-Sheppard teaming partner. We now have over thirty-five years combined successful R/S partnering experience… and, we’re learning more every day about meeting blind vendor needs.  Our goal is to help lead Randolph-Sheppard toward its great potential. We welcome the opportunity to prove ourselves to you. 



For almost 20 years, Brown, Goldstein & Levy, LLP has been a national leader fighting to protect the rights of blind vendors under the Randolph-Sheppard Act.  We have won several precedent-setting Randolph-Sheppard cases, including the first decisions to apply the Act to military mess halls, to the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Veterans Canteen Service.  These cases also established that federal agencies could not charge commissions on vending machine receipts and that the Veterans Canteen Service could not install vending machines in competition with a machine-only vending facility.  We have also represented blind vendors in disputes with their state licensing agencies over terminated licenses, promotion and transfer, collection of unassigned vending income, and expanding the types of items a vendor may sell.  In 1987, we represented a group of Maryland vendors, ultimately obtaining an agreement that lowered the amount of set-aside collected by more than two-thirds. Our attorneys have also been involved in a variety of other litigation related to blindness.  We have represented the National Federation of the Blind and blind individuals in cases regarding the accessibility of ATMs, voting machines, web sites, and computer systems (including the landmark lawsuit against AOL), as well as in child custody cases involving blind parents and grandparents.

5:00pm

The Race is On - The Speedway Experience        BLAST attendees board buses for an unforgettable experience at the Indianapolis Speedway. Join us at the track. Tour the track, learn the history and network with friends at our Speedway Reception. Buses will load for return to hotel between 8:00pm and 8:30pm.

   


The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE symbol: KO) is the world's largest nonalcoholic beverage company. We offer a portfolio of world-class quality sparkling and still beverages, starting with Coca-Cola® and extending to more than 400 brands of soft drinks, juices, teas, coffees, waters, sports and energy drinks.

Within our family of brands are nearly 2,400 beverage products, including four of the world's top-five soft-drink brands: Coca-Cola, Diet Coke®, Sprite® and Fanta®. In 2005, we ranked No. 1 worldwide in sales of sparkling soft drinks and No. 1 in sales of juice and juice drinks. We are the world's No. 2 producer of sports drinks, and the No. 3 producer of bottled water.

Our beverages account for approximately 1.3 billion servings worldwide of the 50 billion beverage servings consumed every day … a figure that indicates both our strength and our growth opportunity. 

The Coca-Cola Company and its network of bottlers comprise the most pervasive production and distribution system in the world.  With operations in more than 200 countries, we have a diverse workforce of approximately 55,000 Company employees. Together with our subsidiaries and bottling partners, we strive to be an integral and contributing member of each of the communities where we operate.  We are part of local businesses around the globe, committed to our customers … the grocers, retailers, vending and foodservice operators, and store owners who take our products to consumers. 

Our mission is to refresh the world in body, mind, and spirit, to inspire moments of optimism through our brands and our actions, and to create value and make a difference everywhere we engage.   For more information about The Coca-Cola Company, please visit our web site at www.coca-cola.com.

8:45am

Upward Mobility Training Session IV- If You Build It, They Will Come. Leaders Institute The foundation of any successful organization or business is leadership and teamwork. Some people refer to these skills as “the soft skills”, but they are often the hardest to learn and implement. Those who cultivate and inspire leadership and teamwork are those who are successful, profit, and enjoy lives of fulfillment. At BLAST, we pride ourselves on providing a broad based curriculum, including hands-on, “out of your chairs”, experiential learning. Those who took part in the 2007 Extreme Blast event know all about it. We are planning one of the most energetic and personally rewarding learning events we have ever offered. You will definitely want to stay through Saturday morning for this extraordinary, uplifting session. Build that foundation of teamwork and real leadership. Solve the puzzles Create your team Learn the lessons Thrill to the energy all around you Follow the instructions Build your confidence Try something new Listen to each clue Work as a team Build a Bike After your team successfully meets the challenges, you will enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done. You will feel the warmth and giving spirit as your team presents your newly assembled, shiny bicycle to a child from a local Indianapolis charity. Often, it is the blind to whom things are given. Through our interactive Build-A-Bike program, it will be the members and friends of the National Association of Blind Merchants who will be giving to the children of Indianapolis. Building opportunity for all through our service to others.

11:59am

Adjourn

   

Vistar/VSA

Vistar/VSA Corporation, formerly Multifoods Distribution Group, Inc., was established in 2002, and is committed to providing superior and reliable service and growth opportunities for your business.
 
Vistar/VSA has cross-functioning teams servicing vending, office coffee, concessions, and more. Regardless of your size and location, we can service your needs. Whether you are a single business unit just starting out or have multiple locations, our 19 distribution centers and numerous cash and carries can handle your needs. 

Vistar’s distribution centers deliver to every major city in the continental United States, and beyond.  Our Operating Companies are staffed with sales and customer service professionals who can assist you with your orders, which can be placed by telephone or fax.  In addition, orders can be placed online using Vistarlink for Web Internet ordering. You can count on accurate and on-time deliveries because first-rate service is our top priority. Our nationwide fleets of trucks are equipped with multi-temperature controlled trailers to ensure that all frozen, refrigerated and dry goods are delivered in excellent condition by our experienced drivers.  Vistar is committed to providing the service and support that Blind Merchants expect, and has long standing relationships with many members of your organization.

Our industry knowledge and experience combined with our national size and scale gives us the decisive competitive advantage in your market. That combined with our service and product selection, makes Vistar/VSA the right choice for your distributor.  We carry a wide assortment of candy, snacks, frozen foods, cold beverages and office coffee supplies in all of our warehouses.

At Vistar/VSA, the customer is our number one priority. From taking your order to delivering your products, we strive to make every contact with Vistar/VSA a positive experience. Our employees are carefully trained to process each order quickly, accurately and professionally and to anticipate your needs for your business. Visit us at the BLAST product and services showcase where we will be exhibiting a variety of products. We look forward to working with you far into the future.



LaBarre Law Offices P.C. is wholly owned and operated by Scott C. LaBarre.  Mr. LaBarre specializes in Randolph-Sheppard law, employment law, disability rights, Social Security matters, business law, and other general civil litigation.  Since graduating from the University of Minnesota Law School in 1993, LaBarre has handled all types of Randolph-Sheppard cases from serving on arbitration panels; representing blind vendors in administrative appeals, before arbitration panels, and in federal court; handling complex contract negotiations for military dining hall contracts between blind operators, teaming partners,  and state licensing agencies; advising licensed managers regarding their Social Security benefits; and otherwise addressing the legal needs of individuals involved in the Randolph-Sheppard Program.  Scott LaBarre greatly enjoys working with blind merchants because he believes firmly in achieving the letter and spirit of the Randolph-Sheppard Act and its overarching goal of promoting the maximum vocational potential of blind operators. Contact LaBarre at slabarre@labarrelaw.com or 303 504-5979.   Also visit www.labarrelaw.com.



CIBUS LLC is an Indiana founded Catering and Food/Service Company. 

As CIBUS LLC we represent an exemplary team of Foodservice professionals with over 100 years of combined experience that encompass both Culinary and Operational fields that rival any in our industry.

Our versatility, experience and in-depth knowledge, allows us the ability to address the realities of today’s diverse venue challenges in Catering, Special Events, Corporate foodservice and Military dining.

This impressive team has hosted many of Indiana’s finest and largest catered, corporate, and private events. Thousands have experienced our passion for success through the realization of our clients’ total satisfaction.

At the heart of CIBUS LLC, is the true understanding of our mission as a service support company from our employees to our customers. More so, over the years we have also come to realize the importance and virtues of our role and contribution in a socially responsible capacity as we develop into an industry leader.

Some extraordinary examples of these responsibilities include the working business partnerships between the Indiana BEP program, Noble Industries and a commitment to the employment of persons with disabilities. Through these team oriented partnerships/programs we have created a win-win situation in both social contribution, business effectiveness, and the stimulation of vision for greater opportunities.
  
CIBUS LLC stands humbled in the realities, but takes great pride in its support.

12:30pm

Winery Tour, Tasting and Luncheon (Check the Excursions page on the website for cost and all details) The annual BLAST conference has earned a reputation and has become famous for its empowering education, extraordinary entertainment, and wonderful networking climate. Our goal is to provide business and leadership training, but it is also to inspire well rounded, active, cultured, discerning participants in and around the Randolph-Sheppard industry. To that end, we have offered yoga, stress management classes, personal finance education and gambling trips. I mean, every blind person should know how to negotiate a casino. Well, this year we will be having all of those opportunities and more. Consider if you will the importance of good wines in society. How can we impress a business associate, friend or family member when we invite them to dinner? It’s all about education, my friends. And there’s no better education than on the job training. Easley Winery Wine Component Education Workshop and Lunch • An in-depth workshop conducted by one of Easley’s winemakers. During the component workshop, guest will experience the four components of wine: sugar, tannin, acid, and oak. For this tasting, the winery exaggerates the four elements in wine. When completed, guests will know and appreciate what they like and dislike about the wines they drink and why. The appropriate “mouth feel” qualities will be discussed. Souvenir Wine Glass Lunch Choice of One Entrée Citrus Rosemary Chicken Lasagna Mexican Fajita Bar Garden Salad Fruit Salad Bread Dessert

   


The BURGER KING(R) system operates more than 11,600 restaurants in all 50 states and in 73 countries and U.S. territories worldwide. Approximately 90 percent of BURGER KING(R) restaurants are owned and operated by independent franchisees, many of them family-owned operations that have been in business for decades. In 2008, Fortune magazine ranked Burger King Corp. among America's 1,000 largest corporations. To learn more about Burger King Corp., please visit the company's Web site at www.bk.com.


 
ServiceSource, Inc., a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization located in Alexandria, Virginia, offers rehabilitation and employment services to people with disabilities.  ServiceSource also offers outsourcing labor options to businesses and government agencies in a variety of fields, including food service, mail management, administrative services, document management, assembly and packaging, warehousing, shipping and receiving, and logistics.  ServiceSource proudly provides Dining Facility Attendant services in partnership with Randolph-Sheppard at Fort Carson, Colorado.
 
Hello fellow merchants, this is John Jones and we at EC Management are proud to be a Silver Superior Training Sponsor again this year.  I am truly blessed I am able to manage the food service contract at Ft. Lee, Virginia. If it wasn't for all of the hard work of the NFB, I wouldn't be there. I am a member of The Association of Blind Merchants and glad to call them my friends. I have a teaming partner at Ft. Lee. They are E.C. Management Services. I really couldn't do this without them. We have been together for almost 7 yrs and it is like we have been together for 25 yrs. Mr. George Otey and Mr. Earl Mason are friends of the Merchants also. Anything I have ever needed or asked of them in order to help or support other Blind Merchants, my partners at E.C. Management have never hesitated.  Get to know us.

SON’S QUALITY FOOD COMPANY

We thank them for their contribution to provide accelerated business information and meaningful leadership training to the blind of America and State Agency personnel who partner with and license blind vendors.  Financial support for BLAST is just one way Son’s Quality Foods supports opportunities for blind entrepreneurs.



Nestle Waters North America is the largest Spring Water bottled water company in the US in both bottled water sales and market share.  Nestle Waters is comprised of six (6) regional brands; Poland Spring, Arrowhead, Ozarka, Ice Mountain, Deer Park & Zephyrhills which are all the #1 brands in the markets they compete.  Nestle Waters goal is to support the National Association of Blind Merchants increase their bottled water sales revenue & profit through the strength and quality of our brands, our tools & resources and our people.



Einstein Bros is a proud sponsor of Blast 2009 and the National Association of Blind Merchants.  Einstein Bros is a leading fast casual bakery café concept.  We’re known for our warm, quirky neighborhood restaurants, our famous bagels and cream cheese, coffee, and most recently, our hot lunch melt sandwiches and entrée salads.  Einstein Bros has 350 company and franchise stores around the country and over 150 license locations in non-traditional locations like colleges, hospitals, airports and hotels.  We were fortunate enough to partner with NABM in our first Randolph Sheppard license location at the State of Colorado Federal Building in Lakewood, Co last year.


The National Association of Blind Merchants would like to thank Cadbury Plc for their gracious donation of Dentyne and Trident products.


We thank the Colorado Center for the Blind for supporting BLAST 09 and for their longstanding, world renowned training for the blind. Skills, confidence, respect - Colorado Center for the Blind. Information at www.cocenter.org. Now in their second year of providing targeted Randolph-Sheppard training. 303-778-1130.

National Association of Blind Merchants

Board of Directors

Kevan Worley, President 1223 Lake Plaza Drive Suite D Colorado Springs, CO 80906 719-527-0488 kevanworley@blindmerchants.org

Nick Gacos, 1st Vice President, NJ 732-548-7176 Pam Schnurr, 2nd Vice President, IA 317-322-0901 Kim Williams, Secretary, IN    423-842-7582 John Jones, Treasurer, CO 804-569-1781

   

Charlie Allen, KY 502-875-1413 Art Stevenson 503-585-4318 Sharon Paris 615-650-0192 Don Hudson 719-481-0180

Lynn Reynolds 908-251-5510 Virgil Stinnett 808-722-4243 Harold Wilson 410-404-5255 Deb Smith 563-386-4764

Note: Upon registration at the BLAST conference you should have been given a BLAST name badge. This badge must be worn at all conference activities as it will serve as your prepaid ticket to all seminars, receptions, tradeshow, breakfasts and luncheon.

Training Resources

Randolph Shepherd Act Training Video 50 Points of Profit Customer Service Advantage Training Program

Promos & Savings

Discover the latest savings for NABM Members & Affiliates

About NABM

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Contact NABM

National Association of Blind Merchants 1837 S. Nevada Avenue
PMB #243 Colorado Springs, CO 80905 (719) 527-0488
(866) 543-6808 Email Us