NAMA Recognizes Government Affairs Advocates For Vending Industry

LAS VEGAS -- The National Automatic Merchandising Association government affairs division presented awards recognizing members who have helped in its advocacy efforts. Recipients include the government affairs committee leadership and members of NAMA's Emerging Leaders Network. They were selected by NAMA's government affairs division based on their level of participation in NAMA advocacy efforts during 2014. Many have been active in local, state and federal advocacy efforts and online campaigns.

"We are very appreciative of the active participation and tremendous contributions these advocacy leaders have made at all levels of government," said NAMA vice-president of government affairs Eric Dell. "Without their efforts and commitment, we would not have been as successful in our results that have positively impacted the bottom line for the entire industry."

Dell expressed his appreciation to ELN award recipients for their willingness to get involved in all aspects of NAMA's advocacy efforts so early in their careers. "Participation from our younger leaders is vital because they offer an added and important perspective for lawmakers and will gain a strong foundation of advocacy experience that will prepare them for years to come, with more opportunities for success for our industry," Dell said.

The awards were presented during NAMA's recent OneShow in Las Vegas. The recipients follow.

Government Affairs Committee Chair Awards (service):
» John Mitchell, Treat America (Merriam, KS) (2013-2014)
» Jeff Smith, All Star Services Inc. (Port Huron, MI) (2014-2015)

Advocacy Awards (for going above and beyond to help achieve industry advocacy goals):
» Kimble Carter, Kimble's Food by Design (La Grange, GA)
» John Barnes, Treat America (Merriam, KS)
» Nicky Gacos, Colorado Café (Jersey City, NJ)
» Chuck Reed, Crane Payment Innovations
» Amy Bartholomee, Vend Central Inc. (Halethorpe, MD)
» Robert Donahue, Canteen (Sacramento, CA)

Government Affairs Recognition (for their outstanding participation and support for industry advocacy efforts):
» Linda Furlano, A.H. Management Inc. (Rolling Meadows, IL)
» Mickal McMath, Moore Haus Coffee LLC (Lafayette, LA)
» Paul Tullio, Gourmet Coffee Service (Van Nuys, CA)
» Elyssa Allahyar-Steiner, Avanti Markets
» Mike Kelley, Quality Brokerage (Turnersville, NJ)
» Carla Variglotti, The Cuyahoga Group (Maple Heights, OH)
» Max Elliott, Tomdra (Tucson, AZ)
» Chris Hart, Southern Refreshment Services (Tucker, GA)