The IFB Beat 9-8 Edition

 

From the Editor

Welcome to the Beat! This edition is packed with ways to stay connected, learn something new and celebrate IFB’s employees.

This Week at a Glance

– Reflections on 90: Growth and milestones during the 1990s
– New Hires: Help us give a warm IFB welcome to our newest team members.
– Ask HR with Morgan: A new opportunity to ask questions of and connect with Employee Relations.
– Your Vote, Your Voice: Register or update your voter registration during Disability Voting Rights Week.
– The IFB Big Fair: Upcoming picnics in Winston-Salem and Asheville
– Winston-Salem Annual Plant Inventory Schedule: Winston-Salem inventory dates
– Health & Wellness: Practical tips for improving your sleep
– Employee Spotlight: Minerva Pozo
– Community Corner: An upcoming disability voting rights webinar and a fundraiser supporting the NFB Forsyth Chapter.
– HR & Opportunities: Blind and low-vision veterans can learn more about an opportunity to receive Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses.

Thanks for reading, and as always, keep an eye out—you never know what you’ll discover in the Beat!

 

Have an HR, history or event-related question you’d like to ask me and have addressed in the 9-14 Beat? Send it to apowell@ifbsolutions.org and check back next week.

Thank you for strolling the Beat. See you next week!

Quote of the week: “The dictionary is the only place where success comes before work.” — Vince Lombardi

Anastasia Powell, Communications Manager
336-245-5698

 

 

Additional Quick Links

– Tap In
– Winston-Salem Support Groups
– NFB Forsyth Chapter Fundraiser
– Jobs

IFB Beat Phone Lines
Support Group Zoom Links
Beat Archives

 

Reflections on 90

To celebrate 90 years of IFB, we are sharing history, fun facts and new, untold stories about team members.

 

The 1990s were a decade of dynamic growth for IFB.

July 16, 1991: IFB acquires a second location in Asheville, N.C., formerly known as Asheville Industries for the Blind.
1997: The first Base Supply Center operation for IFB Solutions opens at Fort Dix, N.J., IFB’s first of now 13 centers.
1997: IFB presents its first Employee of the Year and Career Achiever of the Year awards. For more than two decades, IFB has proudly celebrated the dedication, talent and achievements of its employees through these awards, and we look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come.

 

New Hires

We’re excited to welcome three new team members to IFB. Please join us in giving them a warm welcome as they begin their journey with us.

• Asheville: Corey Redmond and Joel Deshaies
• Winston-Salem: Matthew Mullen

Please join us in welcoming Matt Mullen as our Senior Manufacturing CPI Engineer. CPI stands for Continuous Process Improvement, and we are excited to add Matt’s expertise as we begin this new chapter for our engineering team.

Matt brings more than 10 years of engineering experience, with a background that includes Yokohama Tire Manufacturing, Ryder Supply Chain Solutions and Metyx USA, where he worked with highly technical fabric manufacturing processes.

If you have not already had the opportunity to meet Matt, please take a moment to introduce yourself and welcome him to the team.

In his new role, Matt will lead our Training and Engineering departments, with Tzetza Makaveeva reporting directly to him. The engineering team will play a key role in supporting upcoming department moves and partnering with all departments to identify opportunities for greater efficiency, streamline processes and reduce bottlenecks.

We are excited to have Matt on board and look forward to the positive impact he will make across our organization.

 

Ask HR with Morgan

Coming this Thursday, September 10

Morgan Dugan, Employee Relations Specialist, is excited to begin offering Ask HR sessions during select lunch periods.

During these sessions, Morgan will be available in the breakroom for employees who may have general questions about attendance, workplace policies, HR processes or who to contact for a particular need.

The goal of this initiative is to provide employees with another easy, approachable way to connect with Employee Relations, ask questions, receive clarification and become more familiar with available HR resources.

Each session will also feature a rotating “Did You Know?” HR tip or reminder with helpful information employees may want to know.

The first Ask HR with Morgan session will be held this Thursday, September 10 during lunch in the breakroom. Stop by to say hello, ask a question, or check out the first “Did You Know?” reminder!

 

Your Vote, Your Voice

Make sure you’re registered to vote!

When and where: Tuesday, September 15, 11:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m., TADS Room

IFB Solutions is providing employees with an opportunity to register to vote during Disability Voting Rights Week, September 14–18.

On Tuesday, September 15, representatives from Democracy NC will be at the Winston-Salem facility to assist employees with voter registration. Registration will be available during employee lunch breaks and second breaks.

This opportunity is for everyone! All IFB Solutions employees are welcome to participate, including employees with and without visual impairments. Whether you are registering for the first time, need to update your voter registration information, or simply have questions about the registration process, this is an opportunity to get assistance.

Voting is an important way to make your voice heard and participate in your community. Take advantage of this convenient opportunity to make sure you are prepared to participate in upcoming elections.

Have questions? Contact Morgan Dugan at mdugan@ifbsolutions.org or 336-245-5612.

Stop by the TADS Room during your lunch or second break and take advantage of this opportunity!

 

The IFB Big Fair

🎪 It’s time for our annual company picnics—and this year, we’re going BIG! As we wrap up our 90th anniversary celebration, we’re going out with a Big Fair good time. Get ready for games, prizes, great food, giveaways and plenty of opportunities to celebrate with your IFB family.

 

Winston-Salem Facility, Thursday, September 24, 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

The Winston-Salem Planning Committee has been working hard to make this year’s picnic one to remember, and we have LOTS of fun planned! Step right up and test your skills and luck with activities including:

• Spin the 90-Year Wheel, including a special trivia slot—so brush up on those 90-year facts from the Beat!
• Bucket toss
• Bingo
• Karaoke
• Caricature artist for a fun keepsake
• And much more!

You’ll also enjoy delicious food from Mr. Barbecue, tasty treats and Pelican Snowballs. And don’t forget the three GRAND prizes that will be given away at the end of the event. You won’t want to miss it! Want to see the full lineup? Check out the employee information wall for the complete list of activities.

Karaoke Sign-Up

Ready to take the stage? Karaoke spots are available, with songs limited to five minutes or less. Spots first come, first served, so don’t wait! To sign up, contact Morgan Dugan at mdugan@ifbsolutions.org or x5612 by September 21.

Employee Early Dismissal

Employees should plan accordingly for an early dismissal at 1:30 p.m. on September 24. To be paid for the remainder of your scheduled workday, you must stay and participate in the picnic for the entire event. Employees should clock out at 1:30 p.m. Failure to follow this requirement will result in not receiving pay for the remainder of the scheduled workday. If this applies to you, please plan your transportation accordingly for an early dismissal.

Winston-Salem Parking Reminder

Parking will not be available in the administrative lot on September 24. As a reminder, parking is also not available in:

• Shipping and receiving areas
• Shopping Center

Please review the available parking options here. Do not park in the red areas, as vehicles may be towed. Parking will be very limited, so, if possible, please consider carpooling or using public transportation. Questions about parking? Contact Angela Jordan at ext. 5771 or ajordan@ifbsolutions.org.

 

Asheville Facility, Thursday, October 1, 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

🎪 Asheville, get ready for your big fair! The Asheville Planning Committee is bringing the IFB Big Fair to you, and we’re ready to celebrate YOU! After 90 years of building a strong IFB family, we’re closing out our anniversary celebration with an afternoon filled with good food, games, prizes, creativity and fun with your co-workers. Here’s what’s in store:

• A delicious lunch from Boxcar Grill, featuring hamburgers, sides and dessert
•  Games that will test your skills and luck
•  Prizes for game winners
•  Gifts for all employees
•  Photo booth to capture the memories
•  Gallery of employee crafts showcasing the creativity of our Asheville team
•  And more!

Employee Early Dismissal

Employees should plan accordingly for an early dismissal at 1:30 p.m. on October 1. To be paid for the remainder of your scheduled workday, you must stay and participate in the picnic for the entire event. Employees should clock out at 1:30 p.m. Failure to follow this requirement will result in not receiving pay for the remainder of the scheduled workday. If this applies to you, please plan your transportation accordingly for an early dismissal.

 

Winston-Salem Annual Plant Inventory Schedule

It’s that time of year again—our annual inventory is just around the corner! Please mark your calendars with the dates below and plan accordingly.

Inventory Schedule

• Winston-Salem Plant: September 16, 17 and 18

Additional information and instructions will be shared by your supervisor as each inventory date approaches.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation and support in helping make this year’s inventories a success!

 

Health & Wellness

Atrium Health Clinic Tip of the Month: Getting Better Sleep

Quality sleep is essential for your body and brain, helping support memory, immunity, mood, focus, energy and long-term health. Most adults need 7–9 hours of sleep each night.

Small, consistent habits can make a big difference. The on-site clinic recommends maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, keeping your bedroom cool and comfortable, limiting screen time before bed, watching caffeine and alcohol intake, staying active during the day and listening to your body when you have trouble falling asleep. Keeping a sleep journal can also help identify patterns and habits that may be affecting your rest.

Want more tips for getting better sleep? Click below to read the full guide, including practical recommendations for improving your sleep routine and creating healthier sleep habits.

Read “Getting Better Sleep” for more information.

 

Employee Spotlight: Minerva Pozo

 

This week, we’re shining the spotlight on Minerva Pozo, who has been part of the Winston-Salem IFB family for seven years. From her love of arts and crafts to decorating her church for special events, Minerva brings creativity, teamwork and a positive spirit to everything she does. Get to know Minerva a little better!

Q: Where did you grow up?
A: I grew up in Mexico!

Q: How long have you been with IFB, and what brought you to the organization?
A: I have been with IFB for seven years. My sister referred me to IFB when I was looking for employment, and I’m so glad I joined the team!

Q: What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of work?
A: I enjoy arts and crafts. I also like decorating my church for special events and other activities.

Q: What’s your all-time favorite food or meal?
A: I love Jamaican food!

Q: What do you enjoy most about working at IFB?
A: I really enjoy working with my team and being part of the teamwork. I’m proud of the good-quality products we make, and I also appreciate the friendships I’ve made over the years.

Q: What’s a quote or piece of advice you would give to a friend?
A: “Do not get disappointed. Always work together for the best results!”

Thank you, Minerva, for being a valued part of the IFB team and for sharing your creativity, teamwork and positive spirit with us!

Special thanks to Employee Relations Specialist, Morgan Dugan, for supporting these highlights. Who knows? You might be next in the spotlight! Stay tuned, and thanks for reading.

 

Tap In

Did you know that IFB is active on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn? Check out last week’s post, and give us a follow!

Thursday, September 3: A trip down memory lane. ⬇️

In 2006, the TADS Room at the Winston-Salem facility opened in memory of Tad Garner, the son of Kathryn Garner, after whom the IFB Volunteer of the Year Award is named. In this room, IFB began offering assistive technology and braille training to help employees who are blind or visually impaired build independence and confidence. #ThrowbackThursday

 

 

 

 

 

 

Winston-Salem 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

 

 

Community Corner

Webinar: Disability Voting Rights in NC

Disability Rights NC, REV UP North Carolina and the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law will host a webinar about your accessibility rights at the polls, highlighting resources to receive information and solve problems. The webinar will also review recent changes to voting laws. Attend on September 15 at 7 p.m. Register here.

 

NFB Forsyth Chapter Fundraiser

Submitted by NFB President Angela Haynes

Want a chance to win $200 while supporting a great cause? The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) Forsyth Chapter is hosting a fundraiser!

Tickets: $5 each
Grand Prize: $200

Fundraiser runs through: September 30
Drawing: Wednesday, September 30

Funds raised will support the NFB Forsyth Chapter’s efforts in education, awareness events and community engagement. Want a ticket? Contact any of the following to purchase your ticket:

• Angela Haynes – EFSS (Enhanced Frame Shoulder Straps) Department
• Easter McCall – Vinyl Department
• Winter Robinson – Markers Department
• Tracy Gould – EFSS (Enhanced Frame Shoulder Straps) Department

Buy a ticket, support the cause and you could be the $200 winner!

 

HR & Opportunities

Calling All Veterans

Are you a blind or low-vision veteran? You may be eligible to receive a FREE pair of Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses! The Blinded Veterans Association (BVA) has partnered with Meta to help provide free Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses to eligible blind and low-vision veterans.

These innovative glasses can assist with everyday activities such as identifying objects, reading information, receiving visual assistance and navigating daily life with greater independence. BVA is also providing training and resources to help veterans get the most out of this technology.

Interested in Receiving a Pair? For more information reach out to:

Amber Frederick: afrederick@ifbsolutions.org or (336) 245-5619
Morgan Dugan: mdugan@ifbsolutions.org or 336-245-5612
Tammy Whitmire-Powers: twhitmire-powers@ifbsolutions.org or 336-245-5644

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity!

 

Jobs

Assembler/Packer, Winston-Salem

Education and Work Experience

• On the job training will be provided.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/245441

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/245442?jpt=ce8685cef740a6280b5fcb492b556fa5

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

 

Support Group Zoom Links

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

Meeting ID: 861 6711 1929
Passcode: 992614

One tap mobile:
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