On Premise - July August 2022 by Nei-Turner Media Group

The Official Publication of the Tavern League of Wisconsin

JULY/AUGUST 2022 TLW.ORG

The State of On Premise ALSO INSIDE: Keeping Patrons and Staff Safe Hitting the Bullseye with Dart Leagues The Latest News from Washington and Madison

MAJOR SUPPORTER of

State and Local Tavern Leagues

PARTNERS IN PROGRESS TAVERN LEAGUE OF WISCONSIN • Co-sponsor of TLW Legislative Day • Underwriter of TLW Video on Jobs and Employment • Provider of Coin-Operated Games at TLW Conferences & Shows to Benefit TIPAC • Sponsor of the TLW Trip Give-away at TLW Spring Conference & Show • Donor of Large Screen TV at TLW Fall Convention & Show

LOCAL TAVERN LEAGUE PROGRAMS (SafeRide, Golf, Others) • Contributions and support from individual WAMO members • Matching Funds from WAMO to Tavern League Locals • Contributions to SafeRide Program, Golf and Others • Active Participation and Attendance

WISCONSIN AMUSEMENT & MUSIC OPERATORS PO Box 259506 Madison, WI 53725 www.WAMO.net

608.709.1960 608.824.2205 E amanda@wamo.net P F

A complete list of WAMO members can be found at www.WAMO.net. Hosts of the World’s Largest Dart Tournament & the Nation’s Largest Pool Tournament.

The Official Publication of the Tavern League of Wisconsin JULY/AUGUST 2022 VOLUME 40, NO. 4

FEATURES Keeping Patrons and Staff Safe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 The mission of the SAFE Bar Network is quite simple: to partner with bars and other alcohol-serving venues to increase safety and prevent harm.

Hitting the Bullseye with Dart Leagues. . . . . . . . . . 12

Wisconsin Amusement & Music Operators is making significant inroads in helping bars establish dart leagues and competitions.

2022 On Premise Readership Survey. . . . . 14 Here’s your chance to tell us about your On Premise reading experience and the content you find most valuable.

The State of On Premise. . . . . . . . . . . 16 On-premise visits may be a little different than the last few years, but 2022 consumer sentiment is extremely positive.

DEPARTMENTS President’s Perspective. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

League Profile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Corporate Members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Corporate Spotlight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Legislative Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

New Members & Affiliate Members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

ABL Dispatch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Industry Trends. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

By the Book. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Advertiser Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

SOCIALIZE WITH US

www.tlw.org

JULY/AUGUST 2022

On Premise

PRESIDENT Keith Kern

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Cathy Vales

SECRETARY Erin Farrar

TREASURER Todd Giraud

SOUTHERN ZONE VICE PRESIDENT Jennifer Collison

SOUTHERN DISTRICT VICE PRESIDENT Keith Koehler

EASTERN ZONE VICE PRESIDENT Tim "Tippy" Tomchek

EASTERN DISTRICT VICE PRESIDENT Don Mjelde

CENTRAL ZONE VICE PRESIDENT Paul Salzwedel

CENTRAL DISTRICT VICE PRESIDENT Bob Carpenter

NORTHERN ZONE VICE PRESIDENT Donn “Dino” Amundson

NORTHERN DISTRICT VICE PRESIDENT Nancy Lorbetske

PAST PRESIDENT Chris Marsicano

SPECIAL CLUB MEMBERSHIP PLATINUM CLUB MEMBERS 5TH DISTRICT TAVERN LEAGUE OSHKOSH CITY/WINNEBAGO COUNTY TAVERN LEAGUE OUTAGAMIE COUNTY TAVERN LEAGUE PORTAGE COUNTY TAVERN LEAGUE

GOLD CLUB MEMBERS DOOR COUNTY TAVERN LEAGUE OCONTO COUNTY TAVERN LEAGUE

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP LEVELS PLATINUM $1,000 Annual Membership Level GOLD $500 Annual Membership Level SILVER $250 Annual Membership Level

MANAGING EDITOR

Carrie Mantey Nei-Turner Media Group Inc.

GRAPHIC DESIGNER AND ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Jerriann Mullen Nei-Turner Media Group Inc. jem@ntmediagroup.com

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE Danielle Letenyei Nei-Turner Media Group Inc. danielle@ntmediagroup.com

PRINTED BY

LSC Communications, Pontiac, Illinois On Premise (ISSN #1051-4562) is a bimonthly publication of the Tavern League of Wisconsin Inc., 1818 Parmenter St., Ste. 300, Middleton, WI 53562, Phone: (608) 270-8591. On Premise is produced by Nei-Turner Media Group Inc., 400 Broad St., Unit D, Lake Geneva, WI 53147. Gary Nei, Chairman; William Turner, President; Barbara Krause, Publisher. Printing is by LSC Communications, Pontiac, IL. For advertising information, please contact Danielle Letenyei at (608) 438-6996 or danielle@ntmediagroup.com. Subscriptions included in TLW membership dues; nonmember subscriptions cost $15 per year. Postmaster: Send address corrections to the Tavern League of Wisconsin Office, 1818 Parmenter St., Ste. 300, Middleton, WI 53562. Periodicals postage paid at Madison, WI and other additional offices. ©2022 Tavern League of Wisconsin Inc. Permission to reprint must be secured in advance of publication, and credit given to author and On Premise.

For more information on becoming a Special Club Member, call the TLW office at (608) 270-8591.

On Premise

JULY/AUGUST 2022

www.tlw.org

PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE F

inally! From the sounds of boats on the water to fireworks to the crisp sound of a cold beer opening (after what seems like the fourth time mowing the lawn this week) — summer is my favorite season of the year. However, with a busy season upon us, glaring economic problems continue to rear their ugly head. Early this spring, the TLW sent out a survey asking you, its members, a host of different questions associated with your businesses. Thank you to everyone who took the time to respond. In the survey responses, we saw shared pain points from many of you: the employee shortage, inflation, gas prices, and lack of service and product. The TLW has already begun conversations on what we can do to help in these areas, along with the many other constant threats our industry endures annually, but the survey results will help us put together a more comprehensive legislation plan for the upcoming year. As I have expressed in past columns, this year’s elections are going to play a large role in terms of our future and it’s very important that we all do our part in helping our supported candidates get elected this November! Looking at the TLW’s day-to-day business, it has been a very busy spring and summer for our Executive Board and full Board of Directors. Since October, we have primarily focused on the budget, while also working to restructure our committees and how they operate. These efforts will result in more efficient meetings, having all necessary information within reach and an improved ability to make the best decisions possible. We have also been searching for a new Executive Director. When Pete Madland retired from that position and transitioned to a different role over the past year, it left a void in our association. Though we have all worked together to help support that role in the interim, it is time to move forward to fill this critical position. We all know Pete’s shoes will be hard to fill, but we have a plan and strategy in place to help navigate these waters. Hundreds of hours have been put into this process so far with meetings, calls and interviews. I’m happy to report that, at the time of this writing, we are hopefully close to completing this monumental task and anticipate announcing our new Executive Director in the near future. www.tlw.org

As I have expressed in past columns, this year’s elections are going to play a large role in terms of our future and it’s very important that we all do our part in helping our supported candidates get elected this November! The TLW is more than just myself or even a select few people. We are this association and decisions that are made are for all of us equally. And as we move forward with developing relationships with our current and future staff, please continue to remember we are all in this together and we need to be on the same page to work as one. Within our organization’s transition, we understand there will be speed bumps and minor hurdles, but we will get through them! Our Board of Directors has been working hard communicating with and representing our members, and they continue to provide feedback for us to further shape this organization. Transitions and changes can be tough, especially when they are immediately needed or overdue. But in the end, we are going to have a stronger, more unified association — one we can all be proud to be part of! Again, thank you to all the local leagues for their invites to various events and meetings this summer, while also keeping me updated with newsletters and correspondence from around the state. I enjoy reading about all the great things happening locally in your leagues, and continue to strive to meet each and every one of you while making my way around Wisconsin. Cheers!

Keith Kern TLW President

JULY/AUGUST 2022

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CORPORATE MEMBERS

SupportTHOSE Those WHO Who Support our Association SUPPORT SUPPORT OUR ASSOCIATION SUPPORT THOSE WHO SUPPORT OUR ASSOCIATION PLATINUM SPONSORS PLATINUM SPONSORS PLATINUM

MEMBERS

2012 MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY

GOLD SPONSORS

2012 MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY

GOLD MEMBERS GOLD SPONSORS

Anheuser-Busch Anheuser-Busch

BRONZE BRONZE SPONSORS BRONZE SPONSORS

MEMBERS

TA V E R N L E A G U E O F W I S C O N S I N

MEMBERS

TA V E R N L E A G U E O F W I S C O N S I N

SILVER SPONSORS SILVER SILVER SPONSORS

Make sure to thank these groups for their support and encourage others & not on the list to participate. Any business interested in joining should call the Wisconsin Amusement Wisconsin Amusement & TLW office at (608) 270-8591 for more information regarding the benefits Music Operators, Inc. of the different categories. Remember to “support those who support us.” Music Operators, Inc.

and thank these groups for their support, and encourage others not on the list to participate. Any business interested in joining should call groups for their support, and encourage others not on the list to participate. Any business interested in joining should call fice (608-270-8591) for our brochure that lists the benefits of the different categories. Remember “Support those who support us.” 1) for our brochure that lists the benefits of the different categories. Remember “Support those who support us.”

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JULY/AUGUST 2022

SOCIETY INSURANCE PREVENTING COMMON WORKPLACE INJURIES FOR YOUNG WORKERS Young or newly hired employees are getting injured more often than older, more experienced employees. Workers from the ages of 16-24 had a higher risk of injury or illness than any other age group. The most common workplace injuries include:

Pre-screening

1. Slips, trips, and falls

Educate employees about workplace hazards and required safety gear.

• Falling from a ladder, scaffolding or other platform • Falling on a same-level work surface, such as in a kitchen • S lips and trips due to wet and slippery surfaces, poor lighting or poor housekeeping

2. Lacerations

When using box cutters/utility knives, sharp knives and food slicers

3. Heat-related burns and scalding injuries When working with hot objects and substances

4. Heavy lifting/overexertion

Can lead to sprains, strains and tears when lifting heavy boxes, crates, larger bags and buckets

5. Contact with objects and equipment/machinery Can result in lacerations and broken bones

Implementing Basic Safety Training for Young Workers is Essential

Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the impact and likelihood of workplace injuries.

Ensure that all workers are fit for their roles and conduct formal orientation.

Comprehensive training

Good housekeeping

Keep floors clean and dry. Train employees how to clean and signal wet floors following spills.

Use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

Properly fit PPE for functionality, safety and comfort.

Staying organized

Keeping things tidy can prevent hazards. Disorganized employees may feel the need to rush and neglect safety practices. Society Insurance’s risk management team can help your business identify and eliminate key risk areas. Contact your local agent to learn more about how Society Insurance can protect your business. This information is provided as a convenience for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal or professional advice. It is provided to assist you in recognizing potential unsafe work problems or conditions and not to establish compliance with any law, rule or regulation.

it’s all in the details TRIED-AND-TRUE RESTAURANT & BAR COVERAGE WITH NO SURPRISES. SMALL DETAILS. BIG DIFFERENCE. Long-standing industry expertise means that nobody understands the unique challenges of protecting your hospitality business better than Society Insurance. Offering tried-and-true specialized programs, we are proud to provide comprehensive coverage for restaurants and bars.

www.tlw.org Society_Insurance_Feb10_QtrPg.indd 1

Find an agent & request a quote at societyinsurance.com

JULY/AUGUST 2022

2/14/22 9:14 AM7 On Premise n

Keeping Patrons and staff

Safe

By Maura Keller

avern owners are joining the throngs of businesses who have safety and security at the top of their to-do lists. The decision to install cameras and other security devices illustrates the growing determination of business owners to address the safety concerns of their employees and customers head on. Often, customers applaud tavern owners who prioritize safety and security. To that end, the efforts of a new TLW affiliate member, the SAFE Bar Network, is helping Tavern League members increase safety for patrons and staff, all while preventing harm at their venues. The mission of the SAFE Bar Network is quite simple: to partner with bars and other alcohol-serving venues to increase safety and prevent harm. According to Haleigh Harrold, executive director of the SAFE Bar Network, the organization began as a Sexual Assault Awareness Month project of the Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault (MOCSA), a rape crisis and response center in Kansas City, Missouri. A committee of educators, advocates, counselors, and food and beverage industry professionals developed the training curriculum to focus on increasing safety. Then they implemented the program at local bars and restaurants, and evaluated its success.

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“Programs designed to minimize future [negative] behavior are important in protecting our neighborhoods and communities, as well as preserving the culture of our industry in Wisconsin.” — Don Mjelde, Richard Craniums “The work drew the attention of a local business owner, Kevin Fitzpatrick, and his business partner, Kevin Duffy, who owned four college bars in Indiana, Missouri and Nebraska,” Harrold says. Fitzpatrick and Duffy spent years building on the brand equity of their bars by modernizing the operations, and improving management and training. Through this work, they found a gap in their training program, and began the search for bystander intervention training to equip their mostly college-age staff with the skills to create a positive, safe environment for customers and employees. “They felt that bystander intervention training was a natural extension of the security and responsible drinking trainings they were already doing,” according to Harrold. www.tlw.org

In 2018, they partnered with Harrold and MOCSA to work with their managers and hundreds of employees to create a workplace culture focused on increasing safety and giving everyone a safe night out. Over the next two years, Harrold worked closely with their teams and provided training. Then the atmosphere of the bars began to change. At the time, Duffy said the following: “We think that we do a great job of training our staff to spot fake IDs and notice when someone has had too much to drink, but we saw a gap in our training, and wanted to provide our employees opportunities to learn bystander intervention skills to increase safety and enhance the positive atmosphere of our bars. The improvements in intervention skills, safety and overall atmosphere were incredible, and we wanted to invest in making this training available to other bars.” In January 2020, Duffy and Fitzpatrick launched the SAFE Bar Network as a nonprofit organization with the mission of increasing access to bystander intervention training for employees at bars and other alcohol-serving venues. They hired Harrold to lead the organization and expand the SAFE Bar Network nationwide. In May 2020, Harrold began to build out a network of community partners, alcohol-serving venues and beverage industry supporters to support the SAFE Bar Network’s efforts to build meaningful partnerships with alcohol-serving venues.

“The hospitality industry is built on creating a fun, comfortable atmosphere where people come to connect, relax and celebrate. The reality is that, on any given night, employees at alcohol-serving venues see customers who are uncomfortable or unsafe, and they don’t know how to help,” Harrold says. “The SAFE Bar Network works with hospitality teams to build a culture where employees use active bystander skills to create the comfortable, safe and fun atmosphere needed to attract loyal customers.”

Disinfecting for Safety Today, the safety of an establishment is also impacted by its cleanliness. David Poll, franchise owner of Enviro-Master of Milwaukee, advises scheduling a weekly professional disinfection of the restrooms and a monthly professional overall scrubbing, in addition to regular daily tidying. Poll says a daily cleaning regimen should include mopping the floors, and disinfecting the back bar, bar stools, chairs and booths. He adds, “We recommend wiping down tables with a disinfectant after each customer as much as possible — the same goes for the bar areas.” Restrooms are the hotspot for disease transmission in most establishments, and a weekly deep cleaning and disinfection program can help make them a safer place. While Poll’s franchise focuses on restroom disinfection, it also provides electrostatic spraying services throughout an establishment. “Over time, people can become blind to the mess. The people you hire to tend and back the bar didn’t take the job to clean restrooms. They are not going to be enthusiastic about doing the job and may not do it as well as it can be done. Create a checklist that must be followed. Then make sure to audit your employees’ work. “But don’t be afraid to call in a professional,” Poll concludes. www.tlw.org

JULY/AUGUST 2022

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Teaming Together At its core, the SAFE Bar Network works to build longterm relationships with bars and other alcohol-serving venues. As Harrold explains, partners work side by side to create or enhance the workplace culture so that employees see part of working hard as looking out for each other and their customers, and doing something to help if they notice someone is uncomfortable or unsafe. “At the SAFE Bar Network, we believe that people learn when they are actively engaged in a real-life struggle with new information,” Harrold says. “In the one-hour SAFE Bar Training conversation, we work to connect people with what they already know about safety and harm, share new information and help them integrate the new learning into their everyday lives.” Jordan Cole, owner of North 48, a cocktail lounge in Cedarburg, believes that TLW members would find comfort in knowing that their employees are trained to see, assess and even help solve potential issues to keep their customers safe. “I have always trained my employees to make sure women, especially, feel safe, and that I have no issue removing any problematic people from my bars or banning them as necessary,” Cole says. “Now I find that most of my clientele are women as we have built that trust they will be safe. Having the extra backing and training from SAFE Bar just solidifies what I already believe in.” Likewise, Don Mjelde, president of the Brown County Tavern League and owner of Richard Craniums in Green Bay, believes the SAFE Bar Network would benefit not just TLW members, but all large and small business owners in the hospitality industry. “The program goes beyond continuing education for responsible beverage serving, and

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JULY/AUGUST 2022

opens a discussion on current habits and behaviors in a segregated area of the community,” acknowledges Mjelde. There also is a level of security a bartender or server feels with the knowledge gained from their experience, Mjelde included. “Programs designed for our businesses to network about our experiences and minimize future [negative] behavior are important in protecting our neighborhoods and communities, as well as preserving the culture of our industry in Wisconsin,” he says. From the beginning, the SAFE Bar Network was built on the idea that culture change is possible. According to Harrold, the organization demonstrates that, when the employees at alcohol-serving venues are engaged in conversations about harm, active bystander skills and supporting each other, the workplace culture shifts, putting a renewed emphasis on safety. As a result, SAFE Bar Network members become more vibrant businesses and safer, more comfortable places for both customers and employees. “In fact, 97% of program participants know at least one way that they will prevent harm and increase safety,” Harrold says. “A step further, 96% know at least one thing they will do to create a workplace culture where employees use active bystander skills to give everyone a safe night out. Because of the SAFE Bar Network’s engaging, practical and manageable approach to safe nightlife work, it is growing by leaps and bounds.” In the last 30 days, for example, the team has trained nearly 500 people working at over 20 venues across the country. Getting started with the SAFE Bar Network is as easy as emailing Haleigh Harrold at hharrold@safebarnetwork or texting Join the Network to (816) 237-8628. TLW www.tlw.org

24th Annual

WISCO NSIN TAVERN LEAGUE

FOUNDATION

Golf Outing Hosted by the Washburn County Tavern League

Monday, September 12, 2022

Tagalong Golf and Resort, Birchwood, WI Registration begins at 9:00 am, shotgun start at 11:00 am

Beverages

Lunch

Dinner

Awards

OUR MISSION

Each year, the Wisconsin Tavern League Foundation (WTLF), the 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable arm of the Tavern League of Wisconsin, provides financial support for thousands of Wisconsin charities. In 2021, Tavern League of Wisconsin (TLW) members were proud to contribute $13.5 million to support nearly 10,000 charities across the state.

Spots are limited! Register online at tlw.org to secure yours! Unable to attend? Please consider a tax-deductible donation to the Wisconsin Tavern League Foundation.

www.tlw.org

Want to support the Foundation even more? Sponsor a golf hole, or claim one of several other sponsor opportunities.

Contact Tony Veroeven at 608-270-8591 or tveroeven@tlw.org for more information. JULY/AUGUST 2022

On Premise

Hitting the Bullseye with Dart Leagues

By Maura Keller

very TLW member understands how important it is to engage with patrons in unique ways to turn onetime visitors into repeat customers. One way to do this is by establishing dart leagues. This growing sport is a favorite among patrons, who enjoy the competition and camaraderie that comes with the weekly play and periodic tournaments. Wisconsin Amusement & Music Operators (WAMO) is a Wisconsin-based organization that is making significant inroads in helping bars establish dart leagues and competitions. Organized as the Wisconsin Music Merchants Association over 75 years ago, WAMO educates, promotes and protects the coin-operated amusement industry across the state of Wisconsin. The organization enjoys a reputation as one of the largest and most active state associations serving the amusement and music industry in the nation. “WAMO membership is comprised of the best the industry has to offer. Our operators specialize in many of the games and entertainment machines — such as darts, pool, pinball, jukeboxes and more — that our tavern and bar customers love,” says Amanda Soelle, executive director of WAMO. “In addition, to the best of our knowledge, we sponsor the largest pool tournament in the nation and one of the largest electronic soft-tip dart tournaments in the world.” In fact, the nonprofit organization hosted its most recent State Dart Tournament in May 2022. The annual tournament continues to grow. This year alone, the organization saw a 15% to 20% increase in entries for every event at the tournament (cricket, singles, doubles and team). “Those numbers demonstrate a continued, strong interest in the sport,” acknowledges Soelle.

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“Dart leagues help keep patrons in establishments on a weekly basis, even on cold winter nights. Given that our tournament numbers are on the rise, it would make sense that the interest in local leagues is consistent, if not increasing.” — Amanda Soelle, Wisconsin Amusement & Music Operators To qualify to compete at the state level, players must have played 60 or more games in one WAMO-sanctioned league system. The leagues play in bars and taverns that feature WAMO-owned and operated dart boards. “Dart leagues help keep patrons in establishments on a weekly basis, even on cold winter nights,” Soelle says. “Given that our tournament numbers are on the rise, it would make sense that the interest in local leagues is consistent, if not increasing.” As a TLW corporate sponsor and partner, WAMO contributes more than $30,000 annually to the Tavern League through donations, such as sponsoring a free trip at the Spring Conference, sponsoring Legislative Day, providing a prize (usually a large, flat-screen TV) at the Fall Convention and supporting TLW publications through advertising. “We have also worked together successfully on several legislative issues,” Soelle says. www.tlw.org

Benefits Aplenty The longstanding alliance between WAMO and the TLW benefits members because WAMO members have extensive knowledge regarding new trends in the entertainment industry. “By working with a WAMO operator, tavern owners have access to this information, around-the-clock technical support, and service that may be unavailable to them through nonmembers or if they own their own equipment,” Soelle explains. “This helps to maximize profits for WAMO locations. In addition, operating a pool or dart league in your location with a WAMO member allows your players entrance into WAMO State Tournaments. Finally, WAMO has solid relationships with manufacturers, so by working with WAMO operators, taverns have quicker access to in-demand products and access to games that some of their competitors may not.”

Going Forward To further enhance the dart experience, WAMO continues to work year-round on its tournaments. The organization is also constantly researching new technologies and processes to make its events a fun experience for all in attendance. “WAMO is also trying to spread the word on how fun and friendly the dart community is to newcomers. We don’t see the tournament slowing down any time soon,” says Soelle.

www.tlw.org

As tavern owners and operators continue to focus on customer engagement and retention, many are evaluating the types of dart leagues and competitive opportunities they offer patrons — not only to connect with patrons, but also to establish a new or ongoing revenue stream. “Keep in mind that WAMO operators are professional marketers that will help bring people in on slower nights and help increase dwell time by entertaining the patrons in ways well beyond what they can do at home,” Soelle says. “Your success is our success!” As Soelle explains, WAMO members have so much league experience and knowledge to share. They would be more than happy to help TLW members get started. If you are interested in starting a pool or dart league, simply reach out to a local WAMO operator to learn more at wamo.net. TLW

JULY/AUGUST 2022

On Premise

2022 On Premise Readership Survey Here’s your chance to tell us about your On Premise reading experience and the content you find most valuable.

he TLW provides regular communications and news to its members via the monthly newsletter, On Premise magazine, emails, the website and social media. In this survey, we want to focus on On Premise magazine, your reading experience and the content you find most valuable. Your feedback can help us better deliver content that’s relevant to you. For your time completing all 17 questions, you’ll be entered into a drawing for FREE registration for the 2022 TLW Fall Convention and Trade Show. To submit your answers, please visit surveymonkey.com/r/L578ZXJ or scan the QR code to the right. You may also mail the completed survey to the TLW office at 1818 Parmenter St., Ste. 300, Middleton, WI 53562 or fax it to (608) 270-8595. To be entered into the drawing, submit your answers by August 15. Let’s get started! 5. When you think about On Premise, what content do you find most valuable/read the most?

1. Which of the following are true? Check all that apply. I use On Premise as my sole source of industry/product information. On Premise is one of multiple sources I use for industry/product information. I plan on continuing to read On Premise into the foreseeable future. Other: _______________________ _____________________________

MAY/JUN E 2022

2. How long have you been receiving On Premise? More than 20 years 10 to 20 years Five to 10 years One to five years Less than one year

On Premise

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On Premise

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BODN

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Topical Features/ Articles on TLW Work How-to Articles Convention Previews

NGTO N

DIREC

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Legislative Notes (by Scott Stenger of Stenger Government Relations)

32 350 98 307 97 206 52 35 572 350 20 80 13 7

ABL DI INDUSTSPATCH — TH RY NE WS FR E LATEST OM W ASHI

BY JOHN

President’s Perspective

ABL Dispatch (by John Bodnovich of American Beverage Licensees)

Never Read It

Post-Convention Summaries

Fo rw

COUNTY

Occasionally Read It

neighbors friends and efforts for TLW’s million in 2021 Fundraising more than $13.5 amounted to

3. How much time do you spend with each issue of On Premise? More than one hour About one hour 45 minutes or less 30 minutes or less 15 minutes or less 0 minutes 4. Do you discuss or share On Premise and its contents with business peers or staff? Yes, frequently Yes, sometimes Yes, once or twice Never

P a yi ng It a rd

* The Board

Always Read It

PRESIDEN T’S PERSPE CTIVE

he fact that golf courses are opening As the week , daylight went on, continues things were show was to linger longer really clicking in full force, the Brewers and with the fl the week. . The trade ’ season is oor buzzing Our membe in full swing must throughout rs had an Green Bay mean one opportunity Packers Super thing — spring to meet retired Craig Newsom is finally Bowl winners for our industry here! And, e among Gilbert Brown almost 100 had my fi , another and ll of all the vendors. the weather sign pizza and As always, dle; it wouldn is turning cheese balls I is the ’t be a trade arrival of I could hanto thank our TLW all our vendors show if I didn’t! Spring Conference I would like hope to see for attendin & Trade Show. you in the g this confere fall at the consin Dells. nce and Kalahari The La Crosse Resort in WisCounty Tavern my first confere League hit No matter a home run! what to expect. nce since elected, how Being I really didn’t these conferen much we prepare, we Due to travel know a much-n never really ces are going issues returnin eeded vacatio know convention to turn out. how g home from n with my fashionably in Appleto Coming off wife, Emily, n last fall late Monda there, we a strong and all the we arrived knew the y evening lobby bar, records broken bar was set . As I walked it was immedi and number high. into the poked fun ately clear As mid-wee s started coming of” all week! I was going k approac was our attendan in, I was blown hed to “be away! Not our Live Auction ce another new record Tuesday mornin at 950 member only raised over office staff g’s general $31,000 as s, but a cappella deserves a session opened well. Wow! thank you performance accomplished Our entire up with a for all the of our nationa with the Color behind the great hard work scenes. l they time to announ Guard. After opening anthem, along remarks, Moreover, ce our keynote from CGA. a special speaker, Andrew it was congratulations Just days Taivalkoski, prior to the Hummel I received goes to Dan who start of the a call from Award recipien was selected as conference, our original this year’s ton, informi t. We are President’s presenter, ng 30 years of beyond grateful Matt Crompsonal emergen me he was unable continu for to attend ed service his more cy. Humme including due to a perand dedicat than He stepped over 20 years l is Crompt ion to our in to fill the on’s partner served on tors. Thank league, great job keynote role our state at CGA. you. presenting Board of last minute Directhe most trends. If and did a current anyone was Lastly, I would not in attenda on-premise industry to review like to welcom the informa nce, or was bers! They e our newest tion again, and wants Resources will learn it can be board memtab in the quickly, as going on. found under Member Info we current our website The full board the ly have a Hub after . up to speed looks forward lot you log in as soon as to getting to possible as strengthen them As I have we continu this stated before, e to further of some signifi great association. We are in be one of this year’s cant plannin the process the most elections announ g and importa are going cements later should have Stenger, our nt to date. to this year. some big governmental Knowing this, Scott have Republ affairs director ican guberna As always, address the torial candida , arranged to I am just a call away. membership schedules te Rebecca As your local start to come at the confere Kleefisch league together, nce. out and let don’t hesitate I’ve heard me many politica to enjoyed travelinknow what’s going l speeches have to say, on back home. reach g and continu over the years she knocked you all have I have ally meeting ing to hear and, I it out of the a great and everyone. a candida park. It was and hopeful prosperous I hope te that truly values refreshly we will spring and small busines is in tune with our meet up and summer, issues and and extreme s! Her messagi have a cold ly well-rec one soon. Cheers! ng was on eived by all Immediately point members after she left in attenda further address the stage, nce. there was our industry a meeting her respons to e, it was decided ’s concerns and, after was appropr hearing that a full iate. TLW endorse use our grassroo Watch for further ment details on ts efforts how forward to to help her we can working with campaign. I’m looking our future governor. Keith Kern www.tlw.o TLW Presiden rg t

Nearly two years of the since the COV onset many bars, ID-19 pande mic, and other states restaurants taverns and evaluate independen should remain ways to be using They are t under address complete water struggling drunk their feet, data to driving, to get back . make decisi they “States pay off on need to recover debt or ons. see the from which otherwise full includes COVID-19 pandemic recognizing picture befor among mitigation setbacks. e makin all other a chillin g decisi efforts states that that Utah remai g effect BAC drunk tomers had on the restaurant ns an outlie ons, currently away, and bar and stakeholders driving limits maintain business, pay rent, r limiting . Lawm 0.08% keeping afford the abilit in all but akers the legal increa workers. cusy limit nearly one state have and highway According singly expen of these busin sensible safety survey, identified esses to in half sive produ to a Natio Amer 52% of is that not icans cts and nal Resta the appro cutting to addre opera 2021 was hire ss long-t support, nor urant lower than tors say their the most ach that most erm any techn sales volumAssociation effective it was ology for drunk drivin in Octob way e in Octob g probl a deterr new While ems … er 2019 vehicles ent federal er Just as . should legislation enjoy their to reasonable billion not adults in relief in Marc who wish function as restaurant favorite beer, to the Restaurant to wine hospitality h 2021 provi respo or or cockt Revitalizat ded from using neighbor’s meeting ail at their nsibly ion Fund industry throu $28 the need incomplete home, states local bar, gh today’s (RRF), by 278,0 should of the data to responsible it fell far the also refrai indus 00 appli short adult consu implement laws almost n cants reque try. This was three times that target demonstra of mers.” sting $72 the funds ted billion in aid — approved That’s by Cong why, ress. advocating on Feb. 24, ABL took for Cong ing for part ress to the appropriate in a day of action the gover RRF. As Cong , additional ress consi nment and federa fundexpires ders legisla on Marc l progr tion to fund h 11 — ams — tors to current include there is funding RRF an oppo relief to rtunity those busin funding in an for legisla ABL also omnibus esses still bill and sent a letter dealing members provide with COV of the Hous to Congressio ID-19 them to nal leade issues. e of Repre replenish rship, and sentatives the RRF. all and Senat Alcohol Misleadin e, urgin Industry g As part of Competit ABL recen g NHTSA Study tly respo ion Repo the feder a larger, shifti on 0.05 way Traffi nded to ng under al rt % BAC the c Safety standing diagnose government Law Utah’s Administra release of the recently of comp (in a little 0.05% National tion (NHT ceived etition, more than attempted to High“It’s good blood alcohol to be SA) repor examine six mont conte successful competitio news that t evalu and hs) what but the ating roadways nt (BAC) per 89-year-old n problems NHTSA it preco se within law: are gettin study does beverage ndue to the other g safer just one alcohol not prove The result in Utah, law industry. wise suggests that other … The multi-year all the progr misguided, is a wide, but ess in place is ultimately traffic safety down to help continuall report on a shallow approaches ward trend make roadw comp assume y and largel that were alread vacillates meets the needs lex, diverse y law, partic the reductions ays safer. It is industry y betwe of a big leap consumers. en accep were all that ularly when powerlessn many traffic to due to The repor ess to force tance of the the study the 0.05% and the fatalities t federal changes BAC urge to governmen were due fails to break on 20 On take foisti down state to a “fath t’s ng a variet alcohol. alcoh Premise how As legisla MARCH y of confli er knows best” ol laws suggestions /APRIL tors in cting sugge approach 2022 and other are weakened by stions by onto ambiguous “could,” states. language. Its “might,” “may” n

By the Book (covering labor and employment law) Accounting on Tap (by Dan Bergs of Wegner CPAs) League Profile (highlighting a TLW county league) Business Spotlight (highlighting a TLW member establishment) Charity Spotlight (highlighting a charity to which TLW members contribute) Featured Affiliates (highlighting a TLW affiliate member)

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List of New TLW Members

TRY INDUS TRENDS

You Can A Cocktail About Feel Good

. The boutique and inspiring and both inspired Town vodka ing Spirits is released Hope from the distiller recently Careful sourcing of grains the more bourbon. t product, while Walker’s Cay ensures a consisten from the Caribbean islands. in United States bourbon ts are shipped amber of the exotic ingredien is crystal; the marine artist of the vodka oak. Master The clarity the nt of aged American was sought out for is reminisce Chen, Carey native, n theme. and Jamaican the Caribbea to maintain labels’ artwork BY SPENCER

FAERBER

vodka and Town Lime Pour Hope lime. Hope heap of ice. or wheel of cup. Add a with a wedge freshly squeezed then garnish ginger beer, and tastes of which makes vodka is subtle or artificial, Town’s Lime ce, fruit, not harsh purely for appearan the lime wedge kick. It’s sweet, an extra tart g any time or perhaps and refreshin bubbly, aromatic of the year. Spencer Faerber om. of cocktail.c

in small batches, are crafted Spirits currently these bottles Even though with each. King Town a big impact ions like Hope they’re making Hope charitable organizat on and the Restore partners with Foundati ities when Turtle Cay United, Green Caribbean commun recipes to help rebuild one of my favorite Foundation strike. Here’s : natural disasters rian distiller’s offerings using the humanita

na Mule

The Caroli

INGREDIENTS Town Lime Vodka Hope • 1½ oz. of Beer • 6 oz. of Ginger • Mint • Lime Wedges

RECIPE

a 100% Find yourself for the most copper cup Then bruise classic taste. mint leaves one to three of the glass. at the bottom have a tool If you don’t gently to bruise them, your roll them between few a finger and thumb they effervesce times until mint smell, that savory into the then drop them

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editor is the spirits

us Wine Aerati Instantaneowine

he TRIbella create a aerator can experience rapid breathing to to glass. Due from bottle dripless, threeits patented, the aerator stream design, the to mix with allows wine air as it pours. surrounding instant aeration. The result is is made of The TRIbella stainless steel, polycarbonate to easy d and hand assemble a protective clean. It includes case. storage

Industry Trends (highlighting new products and market information)

er in a Can crisp apple Peach Cobbls introduces its Spiced Peach es of

underton ustin Eastcider peaches and striking burst of ripe cider with a and nutmeg, such as cinnamon warm spices. With an mulling spices, fresh fruit and peel, the new and orange s a balance between peaches, cinnamon Like all Austin Eastcider aroma of white holidays. well for the flavor bodes Peach offerings, Spiced real fruit, is made with artificial contains no glutenis and sweeteners in free. It’s available the part of as 12-packs Variety cidery’s Winter draft. Austin Pack and on craft Eastciders produces Texas, ciders in Austin, ts using real ingredien et apples. and bitterswe 2013, the Founded in a robust company offers the collection including Blood Cider, Original Dry Pineapple, Orange and of line plus a rotating ciders. limited-release On Premise R 2021

/DECEMBE NOVEMBER

g www.tlw.or

On Premise

JULY/AUGUST 2022

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6. Thinking about future On Premise issues, what topics or products are you interested in learning more about? _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ ________________________________ 7. Which of the following do you feel most accurately describes the layout of On Premise? Information is concise and presented in a user-friendly manner. Not enough information is provided. Too much information is provided. Other: ______________________________ ____________________________________

2022 — IT’S

BY SCOTT STENGER,

LEGISLATIVE NOTES

ELECTION SEA SON ALREAD Y

STENGER GOVERNM

ENT RELATION

he longer, warmer days are much needed Announced relief after what Candidates seemed like an for Governo • Former Lt. unusually long r Gov. Rebecca and cold winter. Kleefisch (R) Meanwhile, the • Former U.S. legislative session Senate Candidate has adjourned Kevin Nicholson • State Rep. Timothy with the focus (R) Ramthun (R) now on the 2022 elections. The primary election Announced is set for Aug. Candidates 9 and the general for U.S. Senate After saying he election for Nov. would only serve 8. two terms, Sen. Johnson decided Ron Every 10 years, to run for a third states are required term. Johnson elected to the was first U.S. Senate in to adjust state legislative districts 2010. He will and federal following Democrats face one of the to reflect changes after the Aug. Some areas experience in the population 9 primary. . growth, while declines, and others see population those changes must be considered federal redistrictin in state and g. According to the 2020 census, Wisconsin’s population from 5,686,986 to 5,893,718 grew — a 3.6% increase. the 2020 data, Based on state Assembly districts will have 60,000 people, roughly Senate districts will have 178,000 congressional and districts will have 736,000. The passed a redistrictin Legislature g bill reflecting the population identified by the shifts census, however, Gov. Tony Evers the new maps. vetoed Because they were not approved, drawn by the they will be courts prior to the April 15 deadline. In the meantime, every legislative cycle has its share retirees and candidates of running for office. fairly significant Thus far, the list and likely to grow: is • Sen. Kathy Bernier (R) – Retiring • Sen. Janet Bewley (D) • Lt. Gov. Mandela • Sen. Jon Erpenbach – Retiring Barnes (D) • State Treasurer (D) – Retiring • Sen. Roger Sarah Godlewski Roth (R) – Running (D) • Outagamie for Lieutenant • Rep. Beth Meyers County Executive Governor Tom (D) – Retiring • Dr. Gillian • Rep. David Battino (D), Radiologis Nelson (D) Bowen (D) – Running t • Alex Lasry • Rep. Dianne for Lieutenant (D), Milwaukee Governor Hesselbein Bucks Executive • Adam Murphy • Rep. Amy Loudenbec (D) – Running for State (D), Software Senate Developer • Steven Olikara • Rep. Tim Ramthun k (R) – Running for Secretary (D), Founder of State of Millennial (R) – Running • Peter Peckarsky Action Project • Rep. Sara Rodriguez for Governor (D), Milwaukee (D) – Running Attorney • Dr. Darrell for Lieutenant Governor Williams (D), Division of Emergency Management • Rep. Gary Administrator Tauchen (R) – Retiring • Rep. Jeremy All 99 seats in Thiesfeldt (R) the state Assembly – Retiring and the odd-numb seats of the state The marquee ered Senate are up races this year this fall. constitutional are for governor Gov. Evers was officers face reelection, In addition, all and U.S. Senate. elected four years general. We will including the ago and will face for the first time attorney keep you posted reelection with a growing on the important new list of possible Republican maps and the challengers set races in your to square off area as we get in the primary. Until then, enjoy closer to November. the spring weather and long days before we return of summer our focus to the 2022 elections. TLW

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On Premise

BUIDYE ER’S

2022

8. The January/February issue of On Premise has traditionally been the Membership and Buyer’s Guide issue. On average, how long do you hold on to this issue before you discard it? Until the following year’s issue arrives A couple of months A few weeks As soon as I’ve read it Before opening it

MARCH/APR IL 2022

INDEX

33 & Promotions 33 Advertising, Marketing 34 Aﬃliate Associations Gaming Amusement & Systems 36 Processing & Payment 36 ATMs, Credit Card Services Equipment & 38 Bar & Restaurant 40 Beverage Purveyors 41 41 42 42 43

Insurance Legal Services

nt Music & Entertainme Brokerage Real Estate & & Travel Transportation Miscellaneous

44 44 44 44 www.tlw.org

32 On Premise n

BRUARY 2022 JANUARY/FE

SafeRide Resources

Adams County Barb Robbins SafeRide Crawford County 1610 Evergreen SafeRide Green Lake St. Area Arkdale, WI 54613 Cheryl Hoecker SafeRide Lakeland Area (262) 672-1771 SafeRide 363537 Lohmann Jeremy Brenner Joel Bayer Ln. Eastman, WI N7698 Hwy. P.O. Box 1142 54626 Ashland/Bayfi (319) 610-2246 Eldorado, WI C Hazelhurst, WI eld County 54932 SafeRide hoeckercheryl879@ (920) 979-4397 (715) 356-233754531 Toni Nickels gmail.com generationslanes@ 137 S. 10th St. yahoo.com Langlade County Bayfield, WI 54814 Dells/Delton SafeRide Area (715) 373-5421 SafeRide Jackson County lakerschic08@hotm SafeRide Vanessa Randl Keith Koehler Lisa Listle P.O. Box 32 ail.com 732 Oak St. P.O. Box 465 Aniwa, WI 54408 Barron County Wisconsin Black (715) 449-3919 River Falls, Dells, SafeRide Kris Zappa (608) 254-7475 WI 53965 (715) 284-6012 WI 54615 randl_nessa@hotma P.O. Box 1059 kkoehler1@charter.ne lisalistle@gmail.com il.com Cumberland, t WI 54829 Lincoln County (715) 822-2300 Dodge County Jefferson County SafeRide Earl Paul SafeRide win88100@yahoo.co Robert Carpenter SafeRide 10150 Camp Rice m 110 W. Lake St. Point Rd. Kathy Profitt Tomahawk, WI Brown County Horicon, WI 53032 216 N. Watertown SafeRide (715) 453-2321 54487 Paul Koehn (920) 382-4241 Johnson Creek, St. epjr50@hotmail.com 1803 Main St. bobtherock2009@ (920) 390-0548WI 53038 Green Bay, WI hotmail.com jkproff@charter.net 54302 Madison/Dane (920) 680-2404 County SafeRide paulygogil@sbcgloba Door County Juneau County l.net SafeRide Debbie Stueber SafeRide Sue Ebel Adam Tovsen 4586 Baxter Burnett County 2124 Hwy. U Rd. 1001 Hwy. 82 SafeRide Cottage Grove, Kris Peterson Sturgeon Bay, Mauston, WI (608) 839-5101 WI 53527 53948 P.O. Box 529 (920) 743-9681WI 54235 (608) 847-5959 dks38@aol.com Siren, WI 54872 9reystonecastle@lw atovsen3@gmail.com (715) 349-5755 e.com Manitowoc County pheasant@sirentel.ne Eau Claire County Kenosha City t SafeRide SafeRide Art Debaere SafeRide Tim Tomchek Chippewa County Judi Malone 719 50th St. 1713 East St. SafeRide 1105 S. Edgewater Kenosha, WI Two Rivers, WI 53140 Dr. Cindy Welk Eau Claire, WI (847) 877-9024 54701 (920) 553-847954241 13 W. Central (715) 828-0493 dabaeres@yahoo.com St. tippys@lak Chippewa Falls, efield.net judimalone@charter (715) 723-4848 WI 54729 .net Kenosha County snoutsaloondave.cind SafeRide Marathon County Fond du Lac Ray Garreau y@ County yahoo.com SafeRide SafeRide 32200 45th St., Dana Prahl Lot 334 Deb Sabel Burlington, WI 318 S. Third Ave. Clark County 35 1/2 N. Lincoln (262) 215-1330 53105 Wausau, WI 54401 Kellie Hanson SafeRide Fond du Lac, Ave. rgarreausr@gmail.co WI 54935 (715) 848-3320 907 E. Third m (920) 923-0095 St. danaltclub@gmail.co Owen, WI 54460 deb_ramjet@yahoo.c Kewaunee County m (715) 229-4400 om SafeRide khanson36@hotmail. Marinette County Grant/Iowa Mark Yunk com County SafeRide SafeRide N5685 Hwy. E Columbia County Vicki Bergeson Dan Bowden Casco, WI 54205 N2797 Shore SafeRide 110 N. Jackson (920) 837-2211 Marinette, WI Dr. Lisa Thompson Cuba City, WI St. yunkenterprisesllc.c 54143 53807 (715) 735-0764 341 Roosevelt om (608) 823-7676 vbergeson@new.rr.co Rio, WI 53960 St. bradleyburlage@yah La Crosse m (920) 992-6029 oo.com SafeRide County lmthom_123@yahoo.c Marquette County Greater Ann Berra Northwoods om SafeRide SafeRide S1582 Hwy. K Caitlin Drew Robin Phillips Chaseburg, WI W5269 Fern 6069 W. Riverside (608) 483-210054621 Montello, WI Ave. Hurley, WI 54534 Dr. lumberguy53@gmail 53949 caitlinbenedict@gma .com (906) 364-1461 il.com rmphillips@centuryt el.net

9. When you think about the Membership and Buyer’s Guide issue of On Premise specifically, what content do you find most valuable (i.e., the buyer’s guide, district directory, SafeRide resources, state Legislature contacts, member benefits, etc.)? ________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ 10. Do you learn about new members, partners or suppliers through On Premise? Yes No Other: ___________________________________________ __________________________________________________ 30 On Premise n

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www.tlw.org

11. What, if any, specific products or services have you purchased, or suppliers have you begun working with after seeing them in On Premise? _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ 12. When looking at a relevant advertisement in On Premise, which of the following actions do you take? Check all that apply. Contact the company via phone or email (when listed) Go to the company’s website (when listed) Follow up with a distributor or other supplier Discuss the product or service internally Catalog it for follow-up later Nothing www.tlw.org

Somewhat effective Very ineffective

Emails with current information on legislative issues and association news Extremely effective Somewhat effective Somewhat ineffective Very ineffective

Accounting

Building Maintenance & Investments Financial Services Food Purveyors tions Hotel Accommoda

14. Looking at all TLW communications, how effective are the following for communicating news and information from the TLW? On Premise magazine Extremely effective Somewhat effective Somewhat ineffective Very ineffective Monthly newsletter Extremely effective Somewhat ineffective

SE SUPPORT THOT US WHO SUPPOR

13. Are you planning to make any of the following purchases or service provider changes in the upcoming year? Check all that apply. Bar/kitchen equipment Amusement/gaming equipment Insurance/financial services Marketing/advertising services Legal services Building maintenance services and equipment Food and beverage Other: ___________________________________________ __________________________________________________

Social media posts Extremely effective Somewhat ineffective

Somewhat effective Very ineffective

TLW website Extremely effective Somewhat ineffective

Somewhat effective Very ineffective

Local league meetings Extremely effective Somewhat effective Somewhat ineffective Very ineffective 15. Overall, how satisfied are you with communications from the TLW? Very satisfied Satisfied Neither satisfied, nor dissatisfied Dissatisfied Very dissatisfied Please explain why you selected the answer you did: __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ 16. How would you prefer to receive most of your information from the TLW? Email Mail (U.S. Postal Service) TLW website Social media posts Other: __________________________________________ _________________________________________________ 17. Are there any questions we didn’t ask or other comments you’d like to share regarding On Premise or TLW communications? __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ JULY/AUGUST 2022

On Premise

The State of On Premise On-premise visits may be a little different than the last few years, but 2022 consumer sentiment is extremely positive.

By Andrew Hummel The Current Landscape It was no surprise to see that the number of on-premise venues decreased from 2019 to 2021 — overall outlets were down 5% from May 2019 to May 2021 — according to analysis from CGA, an on-premise measurement and analytics service provider. But it’s clear to see that the market is now beginning to recover, with dining outlets up 3.1% by the end of 2021 vs. May and drinking outlets up 2.7% over the same period. While the on-premise industry gets back on its feet, the overall landscape has changed with fast-casual venues up 17%, as opposed to fine dining locations (which are down 20%). Nightclubs also saw a hit, with locations down 28%. On the flip side, however, premium bar locations are up 27%, reflecting a shift in consumer habits.

also accounts for the most value compared to the other mega categories. In terms of specific spirits, whiskey leads by dollar share (27.6%), while tequila has experienced the largest gain and now holds a 16.5% share of the spirits category. Another key trend that has become evident in the spirits category is price polarization, which is being driven by premiumization. The value price tier in spirits has seen an increase of 0.2 percentage points, the premium tier has seen an increase of 0.1, the super-premium tier has seen an increase of 0.6 and the ultra-premium tier has seen an increase of 0.3, while the mid-tier dropped 1.1 percentage points.

Product — What Are Consumers Drinking? Consumers’ passion for the on-premise industry may not have changed much, but their taste in drinks has evolved. CGA’s study reveals that spirits are key to the channel — not only did they gain share since 2019, but the category

On Premise

JULY/AUGUST 2022

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discovery and ordering of drinks is now embedded in consumers’ habits, however, there’s room for improvement within this medium to increase engagement and drive sales. In CGA’s consumer research, when U.S. consumers were asked how they engaged with both digital and physical menus, only 39% of respondents said that they look at the whole digital menu as opposed to 63% for physical menus.

Outside of the spirits category, hard seltzers have experienced massive growth and show no sign of easing this year, while craft beer took a big hit since 2019 — with a share change of -2.3 percentage points.

Reason — Consumers Need a Reason to Go Out

However, menu design and format are just one facet of the changing path to purchase — brands also need to consider the importance of optimizing traditional in-outlet elements that are key to influencing drink choice. Advertising elements, such as drink mats/coasters (30%), posters (29%), table tents (27%) and other branded collateral, can all drive brand choice in the on-premise industry, while bartender and server recommendations are key for driving drink choices for spirits drinkers specifically.

What is key post-pandemic is that consumers are now looking for a unique experience when they go out in the on-premise industry and visits are more likely to be driven by specific occasions. A catchup with friends (31%) is the most popular drinking occasion in the U.S. on-premise industry, followed by celebrations such as weddings (22%), winding down/chilling (21%), and as a treat or reward (19%). Visits to experience-led bars have seen a definite uptick, with venues that feature arcade games, bowling, ping-pong, etc., seeing an increase from 9.5 million people in fall 2020 to 18.3 million in fall 2021. These unique experiences not only drive visitation, but they also prompt greater organic user-generated content on social media, as consumers are keen to not only make up for lost time, but document their occasions as well.

Omnichannel — How Are Consumers Making Choices? The average on-premise occasion now consists of three drinks, so understanding the path to purchase is essential in maximizing engagement with consumers. Digital-based

Analytics — How Are Cocktails Performing? As consumers returned to the on-premise industry, cocktails saw a boost in popularity. It could potentially stem from a ripple effect from the months spent at home, where consumers may not have been able to recreate their mixed drink of choice, or the experience of being in their favorite bars and restaurants. Over a quarter of consumers (26%) say they drink cocktails while out, with the category providing huge opportunities. On average, the typical cocktail drinker enjoys six drinks per occasion. While consumers may be drinking more cocktails than usual, they’re returning to their old favorites, with the margarita retaining its top spot, followed by the Moscow mule and the martini in second and third place, respectively. Amongst the movers and shakers of the cocktail category, more complex serves with multiple ingredients — such as the piña colada and Long Island iced tea, which have risen up the ranks — are seeing an uplift. In contrast, simpler serves, such as the bellini and the mimosa, which are more easily recreated at home, have both dropped two ranks.

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JULY/AUGUST 2022

On Premise

Consumer — Who Is the Spirits Drinker? It’s clear that spirits have grown in popularity in the on-premise industry, but it’s vital for suppliers and operators to understand who the average spirits drinker is. When it comes to the whiskey category, for instance, these drinkers are more engaged with bars and restaurants than the average consumer, and have a higher average income compared to the average U.S. consumer. However, consumers have become more brand loyal in the post-pandemic on-premise industry, with 45% of consumers saying they have only chosen drinks or drink brands that they are familiar with and trust — compared to 31% of consumers prior to COVID-19. When they are making that choice, bartenders and servers play a key role in the path to purchase, with 56% agreeing that they take recommendations from venue staff on what to drink — with this

jumping to 66% of those aged 35 to 54 and an even more significant 70% of visitors aged 21 to 34.

Technology — How Is Technology Shaping Engagement? Technology has not only impacted the ordering process within the on-premise industry, but it’s also changing the way consumers interact prior to visits, with the rise in ordering and booking platforms demonstrating how much this channel has fundamentally altered. However, technology is not just important from a consumer perspective — it’s also become vital in shaping interactions with bar staff and hospitality professionals. New platforms are proving invaluable as additional touchpoints for training and advocacy purposes, and the success of this technology will rest on understanding what staff require and what increases their engagement.

Innovation — What Is New and Notable? As consumer demand shifts, there’s been an increased focus on innovation within the on-premise industry. Hard seltzers have seen a significant crossover from off premise into on premise, growing from 18 million drinkers in 2019 to 38.5 million by fall 2021. Other formats, such as ready-to-drink beverages (RTDs), are also growing in popularity, with 18% of on-premise visitors enjoying canned wine and spirits, with premixed cocktails demonstrating the greatest demand.

Key Takeaways

>> >> >> >> 18

The total on-premise outlet universe is down since 2019, but the channel has bounced back quicker and more vibrantly than many anticipated. Increasingly, consumers need a reason to visit on-premise establishments after a year-plus comfortable at home. Spirits have gained share from beer and wine, with price polarization driving the premium category. Cocktail revenue is up 50% since 2019 as consumers tinkered, many unsuccessfully, at replicating their favorites at home. Some things are best left to the professionals! Operators should be considerate and intentional with in-outlet influences to maximize engagement. Digital is here to stay, but it should complement traditional ordering methods rather than replace them. There has been a clear spend shift toward weekends and earlier dayparts. In conclusion, while visits may be different, 2022 consumer sentiment is extremely positive!

On Premise

JULY/AUGUST 2022

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Across categories, there has additionally been an increased demand for no- and low-alcohol serves, with nonalcoholic cocktails seeing an increase of 2 percentage points vs. two years ago, and no/low beer and wine each seeing an uplift of 3 percentage points.

Vision — Which Macro Trends Are Carrying Momentum? With many more consumers working from home, there has been a shift in behaviors in terms of on-premise visitation post-COVID-19. In fact, there’s been a clear trend toward the weekend, with wine and beer both seeing an uptick in popularity across Saturday and Sunday, while Thursday has dropped 1 percentage point across all the mega categories of spirits, beer and wine. Friday has remained stable. In addition to an increase in weekend value, there has also been a shift toward earlier drinking occasions vs. 2019. More consumers are opting to go out for brunch, with the occasion growing from 9% to 13% vs. two years ago, as opposed to the late-evening and late-night occasions, which have dropped in popularity by 7 and 6 percentage points, respectively.

Excitement — On Premise Is Poised for Success While 2020 and 2021 posed its challenges for the sector, it’s clear to see that consumers were eager to make up for lost time when they returned to the on-premise establishment and that visitation is not dropping off. As a matter of fact, 47% of consumers stated that they planned to visit on-premise establishments more often this year than they did the previous year, with 34% expecting their spend to increase over the next 12 months.

On-Premise Trends in Wisconsin These trends are reflected across Wisconsin, with sales trends showing that velocity across 2022 has been

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JULY/AUGUST 2022

On Premise

comfortably outperforming the same time last year and on par with 2019. When surveyed in March 2022, 85% of Wisconsin consumers had been out to eat in the previous three months, while 42% had opted for drink-led occasions. Of these consumers, 69% had visited the on-premise industry at least three times in the previous three months, demonstrating a high level of engagement with bars and restaurants. In terms of drink choice, it’s no surprise to see that beer is the most consumed alcoholic beverage category with over a third (36%) of on-premise visitors enjoying this serve. When the beer category or counter. When asked their preference toward ordering, most consumers in Wisconsin still prefer physical and traditional menus, however, the popularity of digital methods with younger consumers reinforces the need for operators to accommodate a variety of preferences.

The SafeRide Initiative When surveyed about the TLW’s SafeRide initiative, over 72% of consumers had already heard of it, demonstrating that the program’s promotional activity has been effective. There is also overwhelming support for the initiative, even amongst consumers who were not aware of it yet, with 93% stating they support the SafeRide Program. The program’s successful engagement resulted in 42,347 free rides home between 2020 and 2021. TLW is broken down, domestic non-craft beer is the most popular subcategory at 24%, followed by craft beer (18%) and imported beer (14%). The premiumization trend identified across the U.S. is also demonstrated in Wisconsin, with 52% of consumers saying they’re very likely or likely to pay extra for a better-quality drink, emphasizing a clear opportunity for venues to encourage “trading up.” Within this trend, cocktails and specialty drinks are the categories that operators are most likely to be able to capitalize on for higher spend. When it comes to key factors in choosing what to drink, 37% of Wisconsin on-premise visitors said “high-quality drinks,” although locality is also very important, with three in 10 wanting to see local brands, and 26% stating “new and interesting brands.” While consumers, particularly younger visitors, have shifted some of their ordering toward digital methods, the majority (60%) order via table service, and 49% order via the bar

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JULY/AUGUST 2022

CGA by NielsenIQ offers a full suite of on-premise measurement, consumer and analytics services across the globe. In a recent presentation for the TLW, CGA’s Andrew Hummel, client solutions director, highlighted how the on-premise landscape has shifted post-COVID-19. For more information, please contact Hummel at andrew.hummel@cgastrategy.com.

www.tlw.org

LEGISLATIVE NOTES 2022 ELECTION PREVIEW BY SCOTT STENGER, STENGER GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

andidates for statewide office and legislative races have filed their nomination papers and other paperwork to gain ballot access. This election cycle will see the second highest number of legislators, 32, not seeking reelection this fall.

In addition to statewide races for governor, attorney general and U.S. Senate, all state congressional seats will be up in November, as well as all 99 seats in the state Assembly and the odd-numbered seats of the 33-member state Senate. The partisan primary election is August 9 and the general election is November 8.

Governor’s Race Democratic Gov. Tony Evers is running for reelection and does not have a primary opponent. Five Republicans are running to face Gov. Evers in November: • • • •

Former Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch State Rep. Timothy Ramthun Tim Michels, business leader Adam Fischer, business leader

Attorney General Incumbent Attorney General Josh Kaul is unopposed in the Democratic primary, and will face the winner of the Republican primary between Fond du Lac District Attorney Eric Toney and former state Rep. Adam Jarchow.

U.S. Senate Republican incumbent Ron Johnson picked up a primary opponent, but is not expected to have much of a challenge before facing off against one of the eight candidates running in the Democratic primary. There are four main contenders in the Democratic primary: • • • •

Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes State Treasurer Sarah Godlewski Outagamie County Executive Tom Nelson Alex Lasry, Milwaukee Bucks Executive

Congress

Candidates for statewide office and legislative races have filed their nomination papers and other paperwork to gain ballot access ... In addition to statewide races for governor, attorney general and U.S. Senate, all state congressional seats are up in November, as well as all 99 seats in the state Assembly and the odd-numbered seats of the 33-member state Senate. The partisan primary election is August 9 and the general election is November 8. www.tlw.org

While all eight congressional seats are up this year, only one is expected to be competitive — the open third congressional district. Republican Derrick Van Orden, who lost to Ron Kind two years ago, is the Republican nominee. There are four Democrats running to replace longtime Democrat Rep. Ron Kind, with state Sen. Brad Pfaff considered the frontrunner.

Wisconsin State Senate Republicans are hoping to gain on their 21-12 majority, though they have four open seats to defend. In contrast, the Democrats have three open seats to defend; however, only one is competitive. Two incumbent Republican Senators have primary opponents, including Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu.

Wisconsin State Assembly Assembly Republicans currently hold a 61-38 majority and there are 23 open seats this cycle. Six incumbent Assembly Republicans drew primary opponents, including both Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and Speaker Pro Tempore Tyler August. TLW JULY/AUGUST 2022

On Premise

ABL DISPATCH — THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS FROM WASHINGTON BY JOHN BODNOVICH, ABL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Over the last few months, a fair amount has transpired in Washington, D.C., and American Beverage Licensees (ABL) has been actively engaged in many issues.

COVID-19 Relief Efforts The first half of 2022 in Washington saw what some of the last, best attempts may be to secure federal relief for bars and taverns impacted by COVID-19. Unfortunately, due to macro political issues (inflation, midterm primaries, Biden administration priorities, etc.), efforts to advance legislation to help small hospitality businesses stalled in the Senate. There may still be another bite at the apple after the elections in a lame-duck session, but the writing on the wall is Congress is moving on from COVID-19 relief bills despite the challenges that many businesses still face.

Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) Replenishment Act The first week of April, ABL activated grassroots to secure additional relief for businesses struggling to recover from the pandemic by supporting H.R. 3807, which would provide an additional $42 billion in funding for the RRF. The bill passed the House and eyes turned to the Senate to see if 60 Senators would vote to support S.4008, which would have replenished the RRF with $40 billion — believed to have been enough to provide grants to all pending applications. ABL once again activated grassroots, targeting senators who were potential yes votes. ABL sent letters to Senate offices pointing out,“With RRF grants, Main Street bars and taverns will be able to hire back employees and afford basic goods that they need to run food and drink establishments. They will also be able to pay back loans and climb out from under debt that many took on during the pandemic to keep their businesses afloat.” ABL also worked with a coalition of more than 30 businesses and trade associations to argue that “nearly 200,000 small businesses have been left behind, and now four out of five of these restaurants and bars are in danger of closing permanently, threatening all of the livelihoods they support.”

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Despite these efforts, and more than a year’s worth of advocacy and campaigning, a vote to advance a bill to replenish the RRF failed in the Senate, 52-43. Every Democratic senator present voted in favor of moving the bill forward, as did a handful of Republicans. In speaking with those close to the issue, the current inflationary environment, coupled with a lack of specific spending offsets, were identified as factors in the final vote tally. It is frustrating for ABL members who applied for RRF grants and were denied, only to see their competitors down the street receive grants, with little rhyme or reason as to why one business was aided and another left out. ABL repeatedly made this point, but to no avail.

Legislative Agenda for the Second Half of 2022 As we move closer to the August congressional recess and midterm elections, ABL’s legislative and policy agenda for the remainder of the year and the 117th Congress reflects a pro-small-business posture; working with members who may be leaders in the 118th congressional majority; and supporting bills and initiatives that may not pass this year, but will likely be reintroduced and hold better prospects of passage in 2023.

Helping ABL Members Address Workforce Issues ABL is supporting the Essential Workers for Economic Advancement (EWEA) Act. Introduced in the House by Rep. Lloyd Smucker (R-PA), the act would “amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to provide for an H–2C nonimmigrant classification” to address hospitality industry staffing challenges by creating a program of nonimmigrant, three-year visas for workers. Workforce issues — namely finding and keeping workers at bars and taverns for all positions — is the number one business operations issue for ABL members. While there is no Democratic lead cosponsor at the moment, ABL is working with other supportive groups to secure one. The association is also working on a target list of cosponsors for meetings to build support for the bill. While ABL’s expectations are measured and there is no immediate path forward for the bill at this time, socializing the issue and educating on the bill will be helpful if and when it is introduced in the next Congress. www.tlw.org

Promoting Fair Competition in the Alcohol Industry Following the release of the U.S. Department of the Treasury Report, “Competition in the Market for Beer, Wine and Spirits,” on February 9, ABL has been advocating for its members in the face of a document that calls for giving small brewers, distillers and wineries a pass on abiding by federal trade practice laws, among other changes. On June 21, ABL sent a letter to leadership at the U.S. Treasury Department, further sharing its concerns. As a result of the report, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) has started issuing notices of proposed rulemaking, including Notice No. 212 on June 8 that would remove “requirements that brewers intending to sell and serve beer on brewery premises designate and maintain a separate ‘tavern’ area within the brewery for such activities, and including instead general provisions to account for beer sold and served to customers anywhere on brewery premises.” This rulemaking would further erode threetier boundaries and exacerbate unfair competition by brewers against retailers. It would also introduce the prospect of the federal government deregulating nonfederally licensed entities. ABL will be working with its members to submit comments on this proposal, which are due by August 8, 2022.

Protection from Privacy Lawsuits/Shakedowns After months of negotiations, three of the four leaders of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and Senate Commerce Committee staff have come to a bipartisan, bicameral agreement to move forward with data privacy legislation this Congress. ABL is working with the Main Street Privacy Coalition (ABL is a member) to shape the bill. The bill is moving very quickly as there was a House Energy and Commerce Committee hearing on June 15 and subcommittee markup on June 23, with a full committee mark to follow in July with the goal of House passage by the end of July. The potential impact of the proposed legislation on liquor stores www.tlw.org

and bars could be significant should the legislation allow a “private right of action” (PRA) for individuals to sue local business for privacy breaches or shake them down with demand letters similar to those in Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) schemes. ABL is working to lobby key House and Senate members to amend and/ or oppose the legislation. ABL has suggested bolstering the PRA guardrails to prevent trolls from issuing demand letters that retailers might consider paying (despite having done nothing wrong) rather than engage in a costly legal fight. The other main issues, in addition to PRAs, are making sure that ABL members’ customer loyalty programs are allowed to stay in place with no issues and preemption of overly broad state privacy laws. ABL is also working on adjusting the exemption for “small businesses” to make sure it covers as many ABL members as possible.

Fighting for Credit Card Swipe Fee Fairness On May 4, the Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing on “Excessive Swipe Fees and Barriers to Competition in the Credit and Debit Card Systems.” ABL, coordinating with the Merchants Payments Coalition, submitted a comment for the record at the hearing. ABL stated: “The hearing shines a light on the broken payment card fee system wherein beverage licensees who accept payment cards face take-it-orleave-it decisions that provide them with few choices and drive up costs for them and their consumers. Payment

card swipe fees are one of the highest expenses for the taverns and liquor stores that ABL represents. In many cases, these fees outpace rent and utilities, and are second only to labor costs. Small beverage businesses have no option for negotiating these swipe fees, nor any ability to choose which cards they can accept if they want to take any of the cards from a banking institution, Visa or MasterCard under “honor all card” rules … After the challenges of the last two years of the pandemic, the last thing that bars and taverns need as they fight to return to running profitable businesses is an unwarranted fee increase.”

May Was Tavern Month This May, ABL celebrated Tavern Month by promoting America’s bars and taverns, and using the occasion to call on members of Congress to pass legislation to replenish the RRF, stating: “From March 2020 through March 2021, bar and restaurant sales of beer, wine and spirits declined by $90 billion. The level of loss was catastrophic for many small, single-unit operators who still find themselves financially digging out in the face of heightening inflation, supply chain challenges and labor shortages that show no sign of waning. Supporting and celebrating America’s bars and taverns this May means getting them the resources they need to remain some of America’s last Main Street businesses.” TLW ABL is the voice of America’s beer, wine and spirits retailers in Washington, D.C. ABL represents the TLW and its many members, as well as thousands of other on- and off-premise retailers of beverage alcohol across the United States.

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On Premise

BY THE BOOK IS YOUR BUSINESS NAME SECURE? BY CRAIG FIESCHKO

ou receive a letter from a law firm alleging that the name of your establishment infringes on its client’s trademark. It demands that you immediately cease use of the name, including removing the name from all of your signage, advertising, social media pages, online listings, etc., or else the law firm will sue you to make you do so and seek damages. Can it?

Incorporation Does Not Provide Trademark Rights Forming your limited liability company (LLC), corporation or other entity with the state does not give you full legal rights to your name. This may secure your trade name with the state — the legal name of your business — and prevent others from forming a business with the same trade name. However, this doesn’t create rights to your trademark (the “public-facing” name advertised to, and known by, the public).

When Trademark Rights Arise You may develop “common law” trademark rights — rights to use your trademark locally — provided you’re the first to use it in the tavern or restaurant field. Stronger rights arise if you register your trademark with the state or particularly with the federal government. Federal trademark registration can effectively provide you with the exclusive right to use your trademark nationwide, giving you a shield against others’ allegations that your trademark is infringing, as well as a sword against others’ use of the same (or even a similar) trademark.

Benefits of Registration Problems can arise if someone registers your trademark before you do: This will typically preclude your registration. Even if you have common law rights as the first user of the trademark, the next registration will often freeze your use of your trademark to whatever usage you had prior to the next registration. For example, you may not be able to use or advertise your trademark in new locations, or expand to new forms of marketing on the web or elsewhere. This is why it’s useful to register your trademark — it protects your ability to continue use of your trademark without threat and to expand if you wish to do so.

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While there are expenses associated with registration, they’re relatively small for the insurance that registration provides. Moreover, these expenses are often recouped many times over if you sell your business, as buyers will typically pay more if they know they can continue (and expand) use of the business’ trademark without problems.

Minor Trademark Differences Can Still Be Major Problems A common myth about trademarks is that there’s no infringement if one trademark differs from another by a letter or two, or if words are added or subtracted. However, trademark infringement occurs when marks are “confusingly similar,” meaning whether a reasonable number of average consumers (who typically don’t memorize the exact forms of trademarks) would regard two trademarks as coming from the same or related providers. Different trademarks can still infringe.

Why Trademark Problems Are Becoming More Frequent Recent events have led to a sharp increase in trademark disputes. Many providers expanded their online activities during the pandemic, expanding their partnerships with delivery services, and offering online ordering and even virtual kitchens, for example. As one’s online footprint grows, so does the opportunity to run into conflict with others having the same or similar trademarks. The pandemic also prompted food and beverage conglomerates to expand their product lines, and they tend to secure and aggressively protect their trademarks. The boom in microbreweries and micro-distilleries, and in restaurant and tavern franchises, also added to the land rush in trademarks. Consider whether you should register your claim before someone else does.

More Than Just a Name You may have trademarks beyond the name of your business, such as logos or slogans used to promote your business, and unique names of drinks, plates or other products. It’s useful to consider whether these should be registered as well. Ask yourself: How badly would you be impacted if you had to drop their use and adopt substitutes? TLW Craig Fieschko is a partner and intellectual property attorney at DeWitt LLP. He secures and litigates patents, trademarks and copyrights. www.tlw.org

LEAGUE PROFILE MARQUETTE COUNTY TAVERN LEAGUE

t’s prime season for the Marquette County Tavern League. With many campgrounds and space to recreate, Marquette County comes alive in the summer. According to Paden Drew, Marquette County Tavern League president, who took over Drew’s Lakeside Bar & Grill in Montello from his parents eight years ago, “We have eight to 10 campgrounds. The largest, Wilderness Campground, houses about 3,000 people, almost doubling the population of Montello — the hub of Marquette County.” And it is the county league’s 48 members who help keep all those campers — and other visitors — hydrated, fed and entertained. “We have mom-and-pops, two 18-hole golf courses, and even most of the liquor and grocery stores have joined,” says Drew. “We really have a community here. Anyone who wants to visit the beautiful county of Marquette, we are willing and ready to welcome you.” The Marquette County Tavern League hosts multiple events throughout the year to help support the tavern community and the county. The spring and fall golf outings support the county’s SafeRide Program. Then the league sells 100 tickets for $50 each for the midwinter Cash Bash event. The ticket includes a luncheon and the opportunity to win a drawing, with the first through 10th places scoring cash prizes. This year’s events raised almost $10,000 for the league and the SafeRide Program through ticket sales, raffles and other giving opportunities. Marquette County pays two drivers to offer safe rides through the SafeRide Program. Members who attend monthly meetings are given five SafeRide vouchers per meeting per establishment, free of charge. Without a voucher, rides are still available for $10. In May, Drew estimates the county league provided almost 175 rides. Funds raised also help support local charities through the county league; members are encouraged to run their own fundraisers

www.tlw.org

and support local charities, too. “Last year, we donated almost $100,000 to local charities that help support the whole county and give back to the community,” says Drew. League members discuss which local organizations to support at their monthly meetings, which are held on the first Monday of every month. Drew keeps members on task with a set business agenda, and brings in guest speakers when available and relevant. Meeting attendance averages between 20 and 30 each month. Members in attendance vote on the location of the following month’s meeting. “It is a great networking opportunity,” explains Drew, with respect to the value of the TLW and its meetings. “I wouldn’t know half of the people in my community if it weren’t for the Tavern League. It’s great that you can get together with someone from two towns away, and have the same ideals, and share ideas and information to make money and support the community.” The Marquette County Tavern League “doesn’t go out of its way” to recruit new members, notes Drew, but relies on word of mouth. “This is a small community. We can easily talk to people, see people and share the benefit of membership. Overall, word of mouth is the best around here and works surprisingly well.” Plus, with 65 licensed establishments in the county (not counting gas stations), most are already members. Now, in his third year as president, Drew is working on the Marquette County Tavern League’s business basics to ensure the organization continues to hum. For instance, he is writing out standard operating guidelines. “That way,” he explains, “if something happens, someone can hand off a book with all the information, and they are ready and raring to go. It’s a good thing for our league’s longevity and continued operation.” TLW JULY/AUGUST 2022

On Premise

CORPORATE SPOTLIGHT CAPITOL-HUSTING COMPANY AND ALLSTATE LIQUOR & WINE

apitol-Husting Company has a long, rich history of distributing beverages in the state. “We are among the oldest and largest beverage wholesalers in Wisconsin,” explains President Jerry Zavorka. “Our history dates back to the late 1800s.” A family-owned wholesale distributor, Capitol-Husting focuses on wine, spirits and nonalcoholic mixers. The company does business in all 72 Wisconsin counties, operating as Allstate Liquor & Wine outside of the Milwaukee area, highlighting its statewide reach. With an extensive portfolio of more than 5,000 products across 2,000 brands, the company offers some of the biggest names in the industry. Given the breadth and depth of the company’s product line, Capitol-Husting can be a one-stop shop for Tavern League members. According to Zavorka, on the spirit side, Capitol-Husting’s best-selling brands are Captain Morgan rum, Crown Royal whisky, Bacardi rum and Patrón tequila. For wine, the top choices are Bogle Vineyards, Stella Rosa and Santa Margherita.

“If there are strong and vibrant taverns around Wisconsin, it keeps our business strong, and allows our organization to continue to invest in the Tavern League and support its members.” — Jerry Zavorka, Capitol-Husting Company Zavorka adds that the company also represents some local distilleries, including Milwaukee’s Great Lakes Distillery (the first distillery to open in Wisconsin since Prohibition) and Twisted Path Distillery, La Crosse Distilling Company from La Crosse, Hatch Distilling Company in Door County and a few others from around the state. As a business owner, you have to differentiate yourself from what everyone else is selling — and it’s no different for wholesalers. “I have different products than my competitors,” says Zavorka. “Our offerings allow taverns to have unique and different beverage programs, so they are not competing with another tavern down the street. You can look to Capitol-Husting to differentiate yourself.” The company offers weekly delivery to all 72 counties and various consultation services, such as menu development,

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drink list creation, and food and wine pairings. As a wholesaler, Zavorka has an inside look at what’s trending in the industry. In fact, the latest trend might sound surprising — nonalcoholic cocktails. “It sounds crazy, but nonalcoholic drinks are gaining some steam,” acknowledges Zavorka. “I would suggest that every tavern include a nonalcoholic specialty cocktail on their menu.” That’s why Capitol-Husting also carries nonalcoholic wines and a product called Sans Junipre, a nonalcoholic spirit with zero sugar and zero calories, that tastes like a cross between gin and vodka. “They are great for the designated driver or for people who don’t drink, but still want a cocktail experience, still want to go out and drink cool-looking, nonalcoholic cocktails,” he adds. Zavorka additionally encourages TLW members to carry and promote locally made Wisconsin products. “I think we see that on the beer list, but not a lot on the cocktail menus,” says Zavorka. “There are a lot of Wisconsin distilleries. These distilleries use local farmers, and support local families and economies. If you are selling vodka, whiskey, bourbon or gin, why not do it with a local Wisconsin product? Support those in our state by helping them grow their business, while supporting local farmers and growers. When we do that, we support each other’s livelihoods.” A TLW corporate sponsor for more than 20 years, CapitolHusting is committed to helping support the businesses that support it. “The tavern industry represents 25% of our total sales,” says Zavorka. “We want to help the Tavern League fund the things that are most important to it, like fighting legal battles, doing promotions, supporting the SafeRide Program and working on legislation. If there are strong and vibrant taverns around Wisconsin, it keeps our business strong, and allows our organization to continue to invest in the Tavern League and support its members.” TLW CAPITOL-HUSTING COMPANY AND ALLSTATE LIQUOR & WINE (414) 353-1000 | capitol-husting.com www.tlw.org

NATIONAL CERTIFIED FOOD SAFETY MANAGER LICENSE TRAINING Small Operator Permit Date

Location

Site and Address

Monday, July 25, 2022

Appleton

Starlite Club, W2091 County Rd. JJ

Tuesday, July 26, 2022

Fond du Lac

Radisson Hotel & Conference Center Fond du Lac, 625 W. Rolling Meadows Dr.

Wednesday, July 27, 2022

Kenosha

Brat Stop/Parkway Chateau, 12304 75th St.

Monday, August 1, 2022

Wisconsin Dells

Holiday Wholesale, 225 Pioneer Dr.

Wednesday, August 3, 2022

Janesville

Janesville Elks Lodge, 2100 N. Washington St.

Monday, August 8, 2022

Hudson

Best Western Plus Hudson, 1200 Gateway Blvd.

Monday, August 8, 2022

Rhinelander

Cabaret Cove, 1540 Pueblo Dr.

Tuesday, August 9, 2022

Chippewa Falls

Avalon Hotel, 1009 W. Park Ave.

Tuesday, August 9, 2022

Waukesha

Foxx View Lanes, 2440 W. Sunset Dr.

Tuesday, August 9, 2022

Plover

Springville Sports Grill, 2811 Plover Springs Dr.

Monday, August 15, 2022

Green Bay

Stadium View Sports Bar, Grill & Banquet Hall , 1963 Holmgren Way

Wednesday, August 17, 2022

Dodgeville

Dodger Bowl Lanes, 321 King St.

Wednesday, August 17, 2022

Madison

Doubledays, 4586 Baxter Rd.

Tuesday, August 23, 2022

Antigo

North Star Lanes, 400 Prosser Pl.

Wednesday, August 24, 2022

Kenosha

Brat Stop/Parkway Chateau, 12304 75th St.

Wisconsin's locally owned and operated wholesaler since 1877.

PROUD sponsor of the

Tavern league www.tlw.org

JULY/AUGUST 2022

On Premise

NEW MEMBERS As of June 27, 2022 DISTRICT 1

Juneau County Target Bluff German Haus Restaurant

Kenosha City Crispy’s Tavern

Steven Hortsman Camp Douglas

Christopher Petkas Racine

Racine County Export ATM and Merchant Services

Eric Lundstrom Burlington

Walworth County Walworth County Fairgrounds

Lawrence Gaffey Elkhorn DISTRICT 2 Columbia County Anchor at Lakeside Bar and Grill

Blaine Smith Verona

Madison/Dane County KEVA Sports Center

Tracy Kruzicki Middleton

Par Bar Indoor Golf

Garett Chisholm Waunakee Teasdale’s Silver Dollar Tavern

Charles Teasdale Madison The Tower Inn

Barbara Wiltzius Monona Waukesha County Curly’s Waterfront

Ryan Gardner Pewaukee

Terry Levendoski Stoddard Monroe County Zheng’s 1688 Inc.

Paul Zheng Tomah

Richland County Bat Cave

Alvin Christianson Lone Rock Keg & Kettle

Calumet County Gobbler’s Knob

Cindy Hakert Stockbridge

Grant/Iowa County David’s All Inn

David Yocurn Muscoda

Lucky’s Bar & Grill

Dillon Devoss Bagley Neighbors

Dirk Milestone Ridgeway

Irma Valdez Sheboygan Crystal Lake Golf Course

Tyler Luedtke Plymouth That Place on 8th

Joseph Brost Sheboygan What’s Up?! Bar & Grill

Curtis Hinz Sheboygan DISTRICT 5 Adams County Pier Plaza

Janine Johnson Bayfield Gusto’s Italian Eatery & Pub

Alvin Christianson Lone Rock

Jeremiah Clearwater Pulaski

DISTRICT 4

Indian Trail Resort

Calumet County 57 Saloon & Grill

Tina Gillis Hilbert

Fond du Lac County Shakey Joes Bar & Grill

Joseph Freund Calvary

Manitowoc County Crazy Dave’s Lucky Lady

David Beine Maribel

Brenda Dettloff Couderay

Lundy’s Black Bear Saloon & Inn

Michael Lunderville Menomonie

Mama T Smokin’ Eats

Tanya Lowney Superior Moran’s Pub

James Moran South Milwaukee The Windjammer

Side Street Station

Christopher Walker Marinette

Submariner’s Pub

Marathon County 3 Amigos Mexican Bar and Grill

Amanda Kienappel Mishicot

DISTRICT 3

On Premise

Stoddard American Legion Post 315

Maribel

Steve Daute Dousman

Billy Sallander Onalaska

The Grainmill

The Other Bar

La Crosse City/ County Petticoat Junction

Sheboygan County Barr 9

Jeff Tess Two Rivers

Alex Cabrera Marathon

Oshkosh City/ Winnebago County Anjie’s Bar

Joshua Gibson Mosinee

Angela Baier Oshkosh

Winners Sports Bar & Grill

Kyle Faust Oshkosh

Zhou Japanese Steakhouse

Cindy Lin Appleton JULY/AUGUST 2022

Portage County O’so Brewing Company

Marc Buttera Plover

The Waters Pub and Pier

Charlene Cyran Stevens Point Waupaca County Crystal River Pub & Grill

Kanwal Singh Waupaca

Filling Station Pizza & Beer

Kanwal Singh Waupaca

Marion Recreation

Jerry Flink Marion

Quiver ‘n Minnow

Lee Meyer New London

Triple O Supper Club & Bar

Nate Lawson Clintonville

Waushara County The Cabin Bar and Grill

Peggy Dischler Plainfield DISTRICT 6

Brown County Rockabilly’s Saloon

Mark Aviles Green Bay

VIP Daiquiri Lounge

Tye Hartwell DePere

Kewaunee County Millie’s Pub and Grub

Megan Lautenbach Algoma The Bucket

On the Hill

Jill Pansier Kewaunee

Rib River by Accentu

Marinette County D&D Twin Bridge Resort

Bill Fischer Wausau

Marquette County Lakeview Campground and Bar

Craig Corning Montello

Donna Allree Crivitz

Lakeside Bar and Hotel

Scott Bauer Athelstane

Peshtigo Pub & Grill

Steve Wagner Peshtigo

Sally and JC’s Northwoods Bar

John Nelson Amberg Wilds’ Place

William Retza Crivitz Oconto County BJ’s on the Corner

Tracy Bostwick Oconto

Gary’s Corner Pub

Gary Graf Oconto

South Shore Pub & Grille

Angela Cornette Suring Yark Park

Courtney Sowle Oconto DISTRICT 7 Chippewa County Bloomer Beam

Chad Harshman Bloomer

Margo’s Sunbeam Tavern

Chad Harshman Chippewa Falls

Clark County In N Out Cantina Margaritas Mexican Cocina

Martin Valencia Thorp

Jackson County The Depot Hotel & Saloon

Tammy Richardson Merrillan St. Croix County Bobtown Brewhouse

Mike Christenson Roberts Cozzie’s Bar Deer Park

Jenifer Cosgrove Deer Park Uncle Mike’s M Pour E Yum

Michael Kinney Hudson Trempealeau/ Buffalo Counties FOB LZ

Ryan Young Melrose

Whitehall Golf & Pub

Joel Sallander Whitehall

www.tlw.org

NEW MEMBERS DISTRICT 8 Ashland/Bayfield County Frankie’s Pizza

Jesse Welty Ashland

The Other Place Bar & Grill

Roric Gilmer Iron River

Burnett County The Sand Bar on 70

Rick Nasman Webster

Greater Northwoods Bucko’s Saloon

Sawyer County Riverside Lanes

Wise Guys

Wilderness Walk Zoo

Oneida County Mike & Brandi’s

Superior/Douglas Counties Manitou Inn

Gerry Smith Hurley

Rodney Martin Hurley Brandi Warwick Eagle River Price County Timbers Roadhouse

Cliff Herfel Phillips

David Wangerin Hayward Jonathan Bonney Hayward

Chris Carlson Superior Pudges

Taylor County The Grey Dog

Joshua Shamrowicz Medford

VFW Club House

Vach Bill Medford

DISTRICT 9 Milwaukee County Natty Oaks Pub & Eatery

John Roots West Allis

The Edge Sports Bar

Vilas County Blue Heron Restaurant/Wild Eagle Lodge

Greg Grabowski Greenfield

Eagle River

Sara Haugen Superior

NEW AFFILIATE MEMBERS AS OF JUNE 27, 2022 Badger Amusements

Off the Clock

Foster’s Fireside

One Shot LLC

306 Moravian Valley Rd. Waunakee, WI 53597 (608) 977-0685 amuseme1@gmail.com badgeramusements.com E10934 County Rd. HH Osseo, WI 54758 (715) 597-6605 sam.tomsen@yahoo.com fostersfireside.com Golden Eagle Bar and Grill

103 County Rd. ID Barneveld, WI 53507 (608) 924-1121 barneveldgoldeneagle@gmail.com Jasper’s Food & Spirits

6510 State Hwy. 44 Pickett, WI 54964 (920) 589-3100 jaspersbar2020@gmail.com facebook.com/Jaspers-FoodSpirits-150135278388108

P.O. Box 251 Schofield, WI 54476 (715) 303-2710 staff@offtheclockcw.com offtheclockcw.com N13769 County Rd. O Withee, WI 54498 (715) 773-8632 oneshotllcowen@gmail.com Starr Mobile Recycling

124 Grant St. Valders, WI 54245 (920) 737-9203 starrmobilerecycling@gmail.com Superior Marketing

10767 Nyman Ave. Hayward, WI 54843 (715) 638-0481 curtis.decora@gmail.com haywardmarketing.us Thunderbird Marketing

9378 Mason Montgomery Rd., Ste. 448 Mason, OH 45040 (855) 376-7626 futurepos@fuse.net

www.tlw.org

DRAW IN CUSTOMERS and keep them there longer with a FUN, FREE sports game!

We're looking for test sites to develop a new app-based fan-engagement platform centered on live sports. Think: Live Sports+ Buzztime+ TouchTunes = fun for the patrons and revenue to you. There is no cost to participate Contact us if you're interested in having Score No Score in your bar! erikhlittle@scorenoscore.com

512-652-7569

JULY/AUGUST 2022

On Premise

INDUSTRY TRENDS A Game Night on Game Night

core No Score, a new TLW affiliate member, wants to build a game night around game night with TLW members. The main goal is to have a good time while watching sports and enjoying beverages, and using the weekly game as a reason to hang out, similar to a bowling league or softball team. Score No Score hopes to have bars all over Wisconsin watching the same game at the same time, while playing a trivia game against each other. Teams can play the game at various locations, and can be linked through a streaming service so they can interact with the hosts and teams from any other location. How to Play Do you think the team will score in the next inning or drive, or within a specified period of time? Players choose how many tokens to wager, then swipe left or right. Totals accumulate for both outcomes and show on the screen. This is how the odds are determined — by players. It’s a bit like poker. Players win tokens based on the proportion they bet. If you contribute more to your team and win — you get more

tokens than someone on your team who put in less. Players can make two bets on each go around. They then have the option, but not the obligation, to double the initial bet. Results are kept in real time and you can see how others are playing in a particular situation. All sports require an initial bet before the game goes too long (in between innings, drives, start of a period, etc.). Score No Score is looking for bars that want to try something fun and new, all while driving business. Its goal is to sign up about 20 bars across Wisconsin. One caveat is that, before a league can start, member bars will need to have players to play the game to drum up enthusiasm and support — a spring training if you will. For more information, contact the company below. TLW SCORE NO SCORE (512) 771-9705 | scorenoscore.com erikhlittle@scorenoscore.com

ADVERTISER INDEX Anheuser-Busch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 anheuser-busch.com Ansay & Associates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 ansay.com B&K Bar Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 bandkbarsupplies.com Capitol-Husting Company Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 capitol-husting.com Cornerstone Processing Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 cornerstoneps.net

Wisconsin Souvenir Milkcaps

PULLTAB PROMOTIONS

Great Proﬁts Employee Incentive Program Used Pulltab Machines Available More Info: 262-336-9624 daytonyoung@wimilkcaps.com www.wimilkcaps.com

Enviro-Master Services of Milwaukee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 enviro-master.com/commercial-cleaning-locations/milwaukee-wisconsin Johnson Brothers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 johnsonbrothers.com Molson Coors Beverage Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 molsoncoors.com Score No Score. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 scorenoscore.com

Stools, Tables, Booths, Outdoor Furniture, Glasswashers and Full Line of Bar Supplies. 5 Year Frame Warranty Available 27 Year Affiliate Tavern League Member

Society Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 societyinsurance.com

7100 W. Greenfield Ave., West Allis

Wisconsin Amusement and Music Operators (WAMO). . . . . . . . . 2 wamo.net

contact@bandkbarsupplies.com

Wisconsin Souvenir Milkcaps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19, 30 wimilkcaps.com

www.BandKBarSupplies.com

On Premise

JULY/AUGUST 2022

414.259.9161

www.tlw.org

Vodka. Seltzer. Real Juice.

GO BREW CREW™!

NATURALLY FLAVORED WITH OTHER NATURAL FLAVORS

On Premise - July August 2022

Articles inside

ABL Dispatch

By the Book

Legislative Notes

League Profile

New Members & Affiliate Members

Corporate Spotlight

President’s Perspective