On Wednesday, May 1, NAMA joined with the Michigan Distributors and Vendors Association (MDVA) to take part in its 2013 “Legislative Day at the Capitol” in Lansing, Mich. MDVA represents two significant business segments in the state of Michigan: wholesale distributors of grocery/convenience products and vending machine and food service operators. As an organization, MDVA has earned respect from some of the state’s highest ranking officials making its annual Legislative Day one of the most highly anticipated events each year.
This year’s Legislative Day included a legislative briefing, followed by remarks from Senators Jack Brandenburg, R-Harrison Twp., and Rebekah Warren, D-Ann Arbor, – both members of the senate finance committee, as well as House Minority Leader Tim Greimel, D-Oakland; House Majority Leader Jase Bolger, R-Marshal; and Former Lieutenant Governor Dick Posthumus, who also serves a senior policy advisor to current Governor Rick Snyder. The attendees then delivered “candy boxes” to more than 250 legislators’ offices, and afterwards participated in a luncheon with legislators from various districts across the state.
“MDVA does an incredible job of representing the industry and its members who work hard to operate their businesses and support to their communities,” said Sheree Edwards, NAMA regional legislative director, who was among the attendees, in a prepared statement. “MDVA’s outstanding reputation is reflected by the comments from legislators who recognize the value that members contribute to the state of Michigan in the form of jobs, industry and growth. This year’s Legislative Day was an outstanding testament to MDVA’s influence and impact on our industry,” she continued.
Eric Dell, NAMA senior vice president of government affairs, echoed Edwards’ praise of MDVA. “NAMA was delighted about the opportunity to participate in MDVA’s Legislative Day because we want to continue to do our part in supporting their issues and educating elected officials about what the industry needs in order to continue to thrive,” Dell said. “Further, MDVA is an organization that sets the gold-standard in relationship building. Michigan’s legislators are familiar with the organization from its years of consistent outreach and valued influence, which is why the outcomes from its Legislative Day are so positive,” he concluded.
