The Pennsylvania Association of Blind Merchants (PABM), a division of the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, hosted its inaugural Spring Fling Blind Vendors Showcase on May 17 at the Best Western Premier in Harrisburg. More than just a networking event, the showcase also doubled as a fundraiser to help support members’ participation in state and national conventions.
These conventions offer crucial opportunities for blind individuals to build community, enhance self-advocacy skills, and stay informed about the latest developments in assistive technology.
A Night of Bidding and Big Wins
The highlight of the evening was the live auction, emceed by PABM member Denice Brown. Bidders competed for exciting items including:
- A $250 Best Western gift card
- Multiple packs of 100 Pennsylvania scratch-off lottery tickets
- A Phillies-themed gift basket
- An Eagles-themed gift basket
In addition to the auction, attendees enjoyed raffle baskets and door prizes, adding extra fun and excitement to the night.
Who Are the PABM?
PABM’s membership includes:
- Entrepreneurs who are blind or have low vision
- Vendors operating under the Business Enterprise Program (BEP)
- Individuals interested in launching their own business or entering the BEP
The Business Enterprise Program, established under the Randolph-Sheppard Act, prioritizes blind individuals for the operation of vending facilities on federal property—offering a unique pathway to independence and economic opportunity.
Supporting Blind Entrepreneurs Across Pennsylvania
Events like the Spring Fling showcase the energy, resourcefulness, and entrepreneurial spirit of Pennsylvania’s blind merchants. Funds raised will go directly toward empowering members to grow their businesses, expand their networks, and advocate for a more inclusive economic future.
Blind Vendors at Spring Fling
Sadie McFarland
Email: sadiemc01@gmail.com
Business: New York Life Insurance Company Financial planning
Kevin Cross
Email: kmcessentials7@gmail.com
Business: KMC Essentials LLC
https://www.thekanekeeper.com
Essential Kane Keeper: cane storage.
Marva Hall
Email: marva@myyahoo.com
Business: Blind Diva’s Little Creations baked goods and boutique items
Michelle McManus
Email: michelleandremy@gmail.com
Business: Michelle’s Scent Site
https://michellescentsite.scentsy.us
Scented products: warmers, wax & more
James Robinson
Email: jnrobinson0928@gmail.com
Business: The Blind Kitchen cooking training to the blind & original food seasonings for sale.
Rachael Hudson
Email: hudson.rachaeld@gmail.com
Business: Rachael Everhart Hudson Tactile Arts and Jewelry
Jasara Ponton
Email: missponton117@gmail.com
Business: The Melanated Blind Baker
https://www.themelanatedblindbaker.com
Baked goods from scratch.
Pamela Baquero
Email: oneblindhippie@yahoo.com
Business: Little Sunshine Cafe
Delicious, unique flavors and blends of blind sunshine coffee as well as some herbal teas, other coffee items, inspirational positivity products
Stacie Leap
Email: stacie.leap@gmail.com
Business: Pennsylvania Organization of Blind Parents
Blind parents t-shirts, family cookbooks,
David Goldstein
Email: info@digitalgraphicsdesign.com
Business: Digital Graphics Design LLC
https://www.digitalgraphicsdesign.com
Website Development and digital marketing.