The IFB Beat 4-28 Edition

A Message from the Editor

Hello everyone, I hope you’re having a fantastic week! Here are a few highlights, updates, and reminders to keep you in the loop:

We’re excited to introduce the final two members of the BSC team, along with a few of our newest hires. Don’t forget to check out this weeks Employee Spotlight, featuring the amazing Noah Davis! Mark your calendar and get your best pink outfit ready for the National Federation of the Blind’s Second Chance Prom on June 7—it’s going to be a night to remember! And if you’re looking for a way to make a difference, consider signing up for the Winston-Salem facility’s annual blood drive on May 29. Roll up your sleeve and help save a life!

Quote of the week:

“Individuals and teams have a sense of ownership, and are focused, disciplined and collaborative, while holding each other accountable for outcomes.” ~ Di Worrall

Thank you for strolling The IFB Beat. See you next week!

Anastasia Powell

IFB Solutions Communications Manager
apowell@ifbsolutions.org | 336-245-5698

Quick Links:

New this Week

– Meet the IFB Solutions BSC Team: Part 3
– Welcome to our New Team Members!
– Employee Spotlight: Noah Davis, Winston-Salem Facility
– Programs Update: Guide Dog Support
– Community Low Vision Center Updates

From Our Community

– Winston-Salem Facility Blood Drive, Thursday May 29
– Reminder: NFB Activities and Events

HR and Opportunities

– 2025-2026 Open Enrollment
– New Job Announcements

IFB Beat Phone Lines
Support Group Zoom Meeting Links
Archived Editions of The IFB Beat

Meet the IFB Solutions BSC Team, Part 3

Over several weeks you were introduced to the IFB Solutions BSC department, and this week we highlight the final two members of the team: James E. Logan, Jr., District Manager, Federal and Academic Military Stores and Shannon Martin, Manager, Business Development.

James E. Logan, Jr.

District Manager, Federal and Academic Military Stores

James E. Logan, Jr. has been part of the IFB Solutions family for 16 years—five of those years managing the BSC at the U.S. Census Bureau, followed by over a decade in his current role as District Manager for Federal and Academic Military Stores. He first learned about IFB while interviewing for the position at Census and quickly became invested in the mission.

In his role, James is responsible for ensuring operational excellence across all Base Supply Center (BSC) stores. He leads a team of BSC Store Managers and staff, guiding them in day-to-day operations and ensuring they have what they need to succeed.

James is passionate about the impact IFB has on the lives of individuals who are blind or visually impaired. “Not only are we creating jobs,” he says, “we’re creating careers.” James has a retail management background holding various management positions throughout his career.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Liberal Arts from Virginia Wesleyan University. Outside of work, James enjoys traveling, attending sporting events, is a passionate bowler, and cheers on his favorite team—the Washington Commanders. He has been married for 23 years and is a proud father of two daughters, ages 28 and 19.

Shannon Martin

Manager, Business Development

Shannon Martin has been a dedicated member of the IFB Solutions team for 18 years. Introduced to IFB by her mother, Shannon has grown into a vital leader within the organization, currently serving as Manager of Business Development. Her role encompasses all aspects of Base Supply Center (BSC) operations—including sales, training, vendor relationships, and purchasing. Simply put, if it involves the BSC, Shannon is likely involved.

Shannon is deeply committed to IFB’s mission and takes great pride in her role supporting the military. “My work at IFB is very important to me, both for our mission and for the ability to serve our troops by ensuring that they have all they need to do their jobs while here or on a deployment away from their family,” she says.

When she’s not working, Shannon enjoys diving into a good book or spending quality time with her family.

Winston-Salem and Clemmons Facilities: Promotion Announcement

We’re excited to share that Frank Ellison has been promoted to Maintenance and Facilities Manager, effective April 16. Frank moves into this role from his previous position as Maintenance Lead.

Frank has been a dedicated member of the IFB Solutions team for 27 years, playing a key role in keeping our equipment running smoothly and supporting building maintenance. In his new position, he will continue those duties while also taking on full responsibility for facilities maintenance at both our Winston-Salem and Clemmons locations. He will continue to report directly to Winston-Salem Plant Manager, Travis Guerra.

Please join us in congratulating Frank on this well-earned promotion!

 

Welcome to our New Team Members!

We’re excited to announce that several talented individuals started with us on Monday, April 21st. Please join us in welcoming them to the team!

Temp to Perm:

• Jose Monterrey – In Line Inspector in Quality under the supervision of Paul Quesenberry
• Desiree Polo – Sewing Machine Operator in FHS, under the supervision of Bill Dennis

 

Employee Spotlight: Featuring Noah Davis, Winston-Salem Facility

Welcome to the Employee Spotlight! Each week, we celebrate the incredible individuals who make IFB thrive. This week, we’re excited to feature Noah Davis.

Q: Where did you grow up?
A: I grew up in Concord, NC, and spent most of my life there — born and raised. About four years ago, I moved to Winston-Salem, which has been great!

Q: How long have you been with IFB, and what brought you to the organization?
A: I’ve been with IFB for three years as of May 31st. I first heard about the organization through a friend who used to work here. After graduating high school, I decided to explore my options at IFB.

Q: Do you have any fun facts or hidden talents you’d like to share?
A: I actually host a radio show on Sundays! I haven’t aired in a while, but I’m working on bringing it back. It streams on Mixcloud.com under the name Supergold Rock and Soul. On the radio show I sing and play several instruments, including piano, guitar, and my personal favorite — the drums.

Q: What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of work?
A: I’m a big fan of vinyl records and have been building a collection for years. I also love hunting down vintage audio equipment — old speakers, stereos, anything with a bit of history and character.

Q: What’s your all-time favorite food or meal?
A: I’m all about classic American comfort food — burgers and hot dogs are go-to favorites. I also really enjoy pork roll (or Taylor Ham), which is a New Jersey specialty I’ve grown to love.

Q: What do you enjoy most about working at IFB?
A: Honestly, I’m just grateful for the opportunity to work. I enjoy the hands-on aspect of running the machines and being able to contribute to IFB’s mission and goals.

Q: What’s a quote or piece of advice you would give to a friend?
A: “Stay true to yourself. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t do it— just be yourself.”

Special thanks to Morgan Dugan, Employee Relations Specialist, for supporting these highlights.

Who knows? You might be next in the spotlight! Stay tuned, and thanks for reading.

 

IFB Programs Update: Guide Dog Support

At IFB Solutions, we know that independence comes in many forms—and for some, it walks on four legs. Guide dogs are more than just companions; they are trained professionals that help people who are blind or visually impaired navigate the world with greater safety and confidence. These remarkable animals offer unmatched support, helping their handlers move through life with dignity and freedom.

Currently, four guide dogs are part of the IFB Solutions family in Winston-Salem. President Lynn Drake’s guide dog, Kenny; Beth Barrett’s guide dog, Grace; Akiva Snipes’ dog, Winnie; and Lee Hartline’s newest partner, Nash, are all making a difference each day—both on the job and off. To support their well-being, IFB recently updated the dog lot, giving these hardworking pups a clean space and new toys to enjoy during breaks. And thanks to Furry Land Mobile Dog Groomers, who park outside Tracy’s Little Red Schoolhouse every other month, our guide dogs stay clean and polished with regular baths and grooming.

We’re proud to have these four-legged friends working at IFB. Their presence reminds us that accessibility and independence can be both powerful—and heartwarming.

Winston-Salem Facility Support Groups:

If you’re interested in attending a support group, please review the update here: https://ifbsolutions.org/the-ifb-beat-12-16-edition/#two-d

• Monday, April 28 Guide Dog support group meeting from 12:00-12:45 in TADS Room

Community Low Vision Center Updates

CLVC Item of the Week:

Hands-Free Semi-Automatic Screwdriver with Screw Holder Attachment for $109.95

Safe for the Visually Impaired. No more dropped screws or trying to hold them in place. Includes screw holder attachment, reloadable cartridge with 6 pre-loaded bits (PH1, PH2, SL4, SL6, SQ1, SQ2), and 4V battery charger.

If you have questions or are interested in any of the weekly items, please contact your local CLVC for assistance.

 

From Our Community

Winston-Salem Facility Blood Drive, Thursday May 29

Submitted by the AAA Committee at the Winston-Salem Facility

Winston-Salem Facility Red Cross Blood Drive Hosted by the AAA Committee will be Thursday, May 29, 2025. Every 2 seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. Your donations assist with heart surgeries, revitalizing accident victims, organ transplant recipients, and patients needing lifesaving procedures. So, will you raise your sleeve and help someone have a second chance in life?

When: May 29, 2025
Where: TAD’s Room (Winston-Salem Facility)
Time: 10:00 am-2:30 pm, Contact your supervisor to set up an appointment to donate.

Admin contact: Morgan Dugan at mdugan@ifbsolutions.org or 336-245-5612 or AAA President Marcia Harton at marcialharton2013@gmail.com.

 

Reminder: NFB Activities and Events

Submitted by Angela Hanes, Forsyth Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB)

Last week to order: Treat Yourself to a Great Cause!

The Forsyth Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) is selling delicious cake slices all month long in April—just $2 each!

Each week will feature a new, mouthwatering flavor.

Craving a slice? Connect with one of our NFB members:

• Angela Hanes (ACS Department)
• Teresa Norway (T-shirts)
• Winter Robison (Markers)

Support a great cause and satisfy your sweet tooth!

You’re Invited: Second Chance Prom

The Forsyth Chapter of The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) presents a night to remember—Pretty in Pink! 🌸✨

📍 Location: The Hawthorne Inn & Conference Center (420 High St., Winston-Salem, NC)
📅 Date: June 7 ⏰ Time: 7:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: $40

💃 Enjoy an evening filled with:
🎶 Live music by EZ Groove Band & DJ Mix Match from Oaks 95.3
🎁 Exciting door prizes
🍽️ Delicious Taste of Jamaica cuisine—back by popular demand!
🍹 Cash bar available

Get your tickets today! 🎟️ Contact:

• Angela Hanes (ACS Department)
• Winter Robison (Markers Department)
• Terry Norway (T-Shirt Department)

All proceeds support NFB educational and outreach services.

 

HR & Opportunities

2025-2026 Open Enrollment: don’t miss your chance for medical premium deductions!

2025–2026 Open Enrollment: Don’t Miss Your Chance for Medical Premium Deductions!

If you plan to enroll in medical coverage, you and your covered spouse can earn a premium reduction by completing a few quick steps.

✅ 3 SIMPLE STEPS TO QUALIFY:

1. Get a routine physical (including labs)
2. Get a preventive dental cleaning
3. Submit proof of both visits (receipt, confirmation letter, or Proof of Physical form) by May 31, 2025!

Forms can be found here:

0 Wellness Routine Preventive Care Form

0 Dental Routine Preventive Care Form

No exceptions to the deadline or document requirements – act now!

Where to send your proof: drop off at Tammy Powers’ office or email to twhitmire-powers@ifbsolution.org. Please note: verification for medical and dental are required to meet the wellness goal.

 

New Job Announcements

For all current openings, visit https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs?clientkey=8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909

BSC Customer Care Coordinator – McGuire AFB BSC Store at Fort Dix, New Jersey

Education and work experience:

• Must have high school diploma or GED.
• Knowledge/experience in handling placement/fulfillment orders, quotes, inventory/inventory systems, and POS systems required.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs/ViewJobDetails?job=133659&clientkey=8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs/ViewJobDetails?job=133660&clientkey=8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909&jpt=ce8685cef740a6280b5fcb492b556fa5

For more information, please contact a member of the recruitment team at careers@ifbsolutions.org.

IFB Beat Phone Lines

English line: 336-245-5691

Spanish line: 336-245-5663

 

Zoom Meeting Links

Support Groups Zoom

https://ifbsolutions.zoom.us/j/86167111929?pwd=G9vSBWcnTFrMHixqb19TpU7q8sQW1N.1

Meeting ID: 861 6711 1929

Passcode: 992614

One tap mobile

+13126266799,86167111929# US (Chicago)

+16465588656,86167111929# US (New York)

888 475 4499 US Toll-free

877 853 5257 US Toll-free

Meeting ID: 861 6711 1929