(CHICAGO) April 28, 2015 – NAMA announced today the recipients of advocacy awards, presented by the NAMA Government Affairs division at OneShow in Las Vegas. The awards recognize several members who have made valuable contributions, going above and beyond to help in NAMA’s advocacy efforts.
“We are very appreciative of the active participation and tremendous contributions these advocacy leaders have made at all levels of government,” said Eric Dell, NAMA Vice President of Government Affairs. “Through these awards, we recognize their devotion and dedication to the industry’s advocacy needs. 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.”
Award recipients include the Government Affairs Committee leadership, Advocacy leaders and members of NAMA’s Emerging Leaders Network. The recipients are:
Government Affairs Committee Chair award:
(Service awards)
John Mitchell, Treat America (2013-2014)
Jeff Smith, All Star Services, Inc. (2014-2015)
Advocacy Awards:
(For going above and beyond to help achieve industry advocacy goals.)
Kimble Carter, Kimble’s Food by Design
John Barnes, Treat America
Nicky Gacos, Colorado Cafe
Chuck Reed, CPI
Amy Bartholomee, Vend Central, Inc.
Robert Donahue, Canteen (Sacramento, CA)
Government Affairs Recognition:
(For their outstanding participation and support for industry advocacy efforts.)
Juan Jorquera, Vagabond Vending
Linda Furlano, A.H. Management, Inc.
Mickal McMath, Moore Haus Coffee LLC
Paul Tullio, Gourmet Coffee Service
Elyssa Allahyar-Steiner, Avanti Markets
Mike Kelley, Quality Brokerage
Carla Variglotti, The Cuyahoga Group
Max Elliott, Tomdra
Chris Hart, Southern Refreshment Services
The recipients were selected by the Government Affairs division based on their level of participation in NAMA advocacy efforts during 2014. Many of the recipients have been active in local, state and federal advocacy efforts and online advocacy campaigns.
“In particular, I’d like to recognize the ELN award recipients for their impressive willingness to get involved in all aspects of our advocacy efforts so early in their careers,” Dell said. “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 continued.
“On behalf of NAMA’s Government Affairs division, I congratulate all our recipients on these well-deserved awards,” Dell concluded.
Founded in 1936, NAMA is the association representing the $42 billion U.S. vending and refreshment service industry. With more than 1500 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.
