April 2016 NICA News

Contents • April 2016 FEATURES 09 Member’s Voice

Susan Hewing, JMS Concessions; Jane Harris, The Best Around; Rick Oxford, Televac Products; Doug Dills, Dills Concessions; Tracey Parker, Parker Family Concessions

12 Thoughts from a CCE

Charles Cox, Cox Concessions of Ohio, Inc.

16 NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods 2016 Food Show Rocks the House

07 Office Update 15 Celebrating a Successful Casino Night 17 The 2016 Food Show Update 18 You Never Know what YOU Will Learn When You Speak at NICA’s Expo 19 Listening to Our Members 23 Seen at the Food Show 25 Rallying for Member Benefits

Activities & Events 07 Hidden Object Contest 29 Coca-Cola Membership Contest Leaderboard 30 2016 Calendar of Events

AdvertiSers

News & Articles 04 New & Renewing Members 05 President’s Message Paulette Keene

05 The Director’s Voice Justin Sattler

13 Allied Specialty Insurance 10 Alpha Baking Company 08 Berk Concession Supply 02 Coca-Cola 29 Cusumano & Sons 11 Fanestil Meats 28 Fare Foods 28 FCI / Heritage Insurance

13 Fontanini 30 Heinkel’s 08 Mr. G’s Quality Meats 29 Perfect Stix 11 RIO Syrup 04 Sippers by Design 14 Source1 Purchasing 26 TasteMaker 27 THE Insurance 24 Whirley Drink Works 26 WNA Specialty

Dedicated to strengthening relationships with the Fair, Festival, and Special Events Industries through effective communication, benefits, leadership, and solutions The National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc. is a Florida Corporation with an Editorial and General Office located at 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 • Office: (813) 438-8926 • Fax: (813) 438-8928 • Online: www.nicainc.org The information contained in this Publication is based upon sources believed to be reliable. Readers should not act without professional advice. Cover to Cover © 1993-2015 NICA, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Have a great start to your season!

April 2016 NICA News

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This Month’s Newest Members!

Ron Ames Black Kettle Caldwell, ID

William Gardiner Fat Franky's Funnel Cake Lancaster, CA

Rebecca Santorelli The Corner Grill Altamont, NY

Lynn Testa Top Chef Auctions Palm Harbor, FL

Deborah Aschmann Lady Lake, FL

Mark Hokenwald Hokenwald Enterprises, Inc. Oakdale, MN

Robert Santorelli The Corner Grill Altamont, NY

Ivan Work Hills Concessions, LLC Marysville, OH

Shelby Lowe Southeast Florida Public Market Fair Association, Inc. Lake Park, FL

Jennifer Simpson Suck It Up Concessions Riverside, CA

Patricia Bair Bair's Concessions, Inc. Lancaster OH Trent Bair Bair’s Concessions, Inc. Lancaster, OH

Welcome to our 12 New Members!

This Month’s Member Renewals Teresa Cox-Hickey Concessions by Cox of Georgia, Inc. Perry, GA (2015)

Jeffrey “JJ” Hickey Concessions by Cox of Georgia, Inc. Perry, GA (2015)

Craig Fletcher Fletcher’s Concessions Riverview, FL (2014)

Clay Metcalf Metcalf Food & Beverage, Inc. Scarborough, ON (2014)

Pam Fyock Tulare County Fair Tulare, CA (2014)

Cameron Murray Chester’s Gators & Taters Raleigh, NC (2012)

Todd Myers Smoke Shack BBQ Shobonier, IL (2014) Joseph Potillo, Jr. Potillo’s Sanitation Service Yalaha, FL (2007) Andi Price Town Fryer Rochester, IN (2006)

Keith Tompkins Keith’s Restaurant & Concession Equipment Rock Falls, IL (2012) Tammy Wetherell Wetherell Concessions Stewardson, IL (2011) Katie Wilson Beak Amusements Greshom, SC (2015)

Donna Ruhm Del Mar Fairgrounds Del Mar, CA (2013)

Thank you to all 13 of our Renewing Members for your continued support of NICA! Are you wondering if your NICA membership renewal may be due soon? To find out, you can contact us at (813) 438-8926 or at nica@nicainc.org.

Alternatively, if you have set up your online account with us, you can check your account balance online at our website www.nicainc.org.

“What lies behind you and what lies in front of you, pales in comparison to what lies inside of you.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson 4

April 2016 NICA News

President’s Message Paulette Keene, President

on the day-to-day operations. We are reviewing the SWOTT analysis to see where NICA stands Greetings to all! As I with our new and old ideas and fit them into our hold strong to my beliefs Strategic Plan. The yearly workshop is soon to be and accept guidance from upon us and the whole BOD will view, study, and others, my first month as finalize the plans and how we will implement them President of NICA has been with our new committee structure that aligns very busy and taxing. I am a with our BOD positions and the Strategic Plan. I Concessionaire of 34-years- stressed how much I want these committees to plus who was raised on a line up with their duties in the By-laws and Rey small family carnival. The suggested the committees also need to help us everyday operation of my complete our Strategic Plan; so together, I believe business comes naturally to we have designed a good structure. It will make me and my husband, Norm, works constantly on it easier for each member of the BOD to stay the upgrading and maintenance of our business. focused in one area and accomplish more during On the other hand, stepping into the Chair of our busy lifestyles. a Board of Directors (BOD) that represents Director Sandy Class, and Treasurer Jennifer over 1100 members puts a whole different Giordano, with Rey’s expertise in writing responsibility on my shoulders (or on anyone documents, have rewritten the Scholarship else who has been in this seat). I will strive to Application. It will not be used until next year represent all of you as a whole organization. due to the timeline of application and NICA News I have jumped in and I am ready to serve! With the help of our Interim Executive Manager, Rey O’Day, we have a plan with the Office to work ►► “President’s Message” continued on page 6

The Director’s Voice “Was it Fortune or Misfortune?”

Justin Sattler, Director

Hello again everyone!

As many of you all have probably heard, I recently had a bit of misfortune in my travels. We were finishing up our Fall season when it struck. I was driving on I-4 pulling tandem as in a tractor pup trailer with the concession unit behind the pup, or doubles as it’s also called. I crossed over an overpass and it was extremely rough. As I did this, I heard a terrible loud banging noise. My youngest son was riding along with me, as he loves the big trucks and he

said to me, “Dad! Whela, chotta, blah...!“ I said, “What?” Finally, he spit it out, “The joint, the joint— it’s gone!”

Sure enough, as I look back, there it goes across I-4, skidding on its nose because the tongue had snapped off flush with the front of the trailer. As luck or fortune would have it—I feel as if it were divine intervention—the trailer slid across the busy road off to the right side of the road, slamming into the concrete wall before it came to rest on the shoulder. Fortunately, no one hit it and it hit no one in the process, so all that happened was that we were less one concession trailer. I looked over at my son immediately and

►► “Director’s Voice” continued on page 7 April 2016 NICA News

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Past Presidents’ Council

Officers

President: Paulette Keene 1st Vice President: Dominic Palmieri 2nd Vice President: Dennis Fraleigh Secretary: Kathy Ross Treasurer: Jennifer Giordano

Directors

Sandy Class Dan Lusenhop Brad Ribar Justin Sattler Daryl Whicheloe, CCE

Immediate Past President Joe Potillo, Jr.

Greg Miller, CCE Tom Sattler, CCE Russ Harrison, CCE Richard Busse, CCE Tom Hodson, CCE Jim Hodson, CCE (Deceased) Tim O’Brien, CCE Ron Smith Adam McKinney, CCE Mike Pence, CCE Jack Woods, II, CCE Bob Hallifax, CCE Frank Parnell, CCE Larry Orme (Deceased) Larry Sivori Rich Wright Bill McKinney, CCE Arthur Pokorny, Jr. Gene O’Brien, CCE (Deceased)

NICA OFFICE

Interim Executive Manager : Rey O’Day • rey@nicainc.org Office Manager: Yachika Rogers • nica@nicainc.org Communications, Marketing & Design: Jesse Willard • graphics@nicainc.org Bookkeeper: Lisa Fleming • bookkeeper@nicainc.org

NICA WEST OFFICE

2130 Walnut St, La Verne, CA 91750

NICA West Council Kim Barr Nate Janousek Dan Lusenhop Ashley Murray Mike Newman Dale Smith Lisa Thompson-Baker Jay Wells Daryl Whicheloe, CCE April Wood

nica Northeast Council Tom Ferguson Kelly Grout Russ Harrison, CCE Vinnie Nelson Jim Staub, Jr.

National Representatives Duane Fischer John Harkey David Higginbottom Charles Ivory, CCE Mike Markowitz Mike McGrath Kevin McGrath, II Dannie Moreland Etta Pence, CCE David Spann R. Josh Stremmel George Wandrey, Jr. Ted Wentz Ed White

“President’s Message” continued from page 5 ►► events. Thanks to all who host these events and the volunteers who put them on.

We learned from our SWOTT analyses at our deadlines. Jesse, our Communications, Marketing Business Expo that our members were not aware and Design Coordinator, also made it where of all of our benefits and how to take advantage applicants can submit their application online, of using them, so a Member Benefit Rally was keeping us more tech friendly. recently held at the Florida Strawberry Festival.

Secretary Kathy Ross has been exceptional NICA Director Sandy Class, Secretary Kathy in planning for Fundraisers. She planned a Ross, and Past President Joe Potillo, Jr. made Spaghetti Poker Night at St. Lucie County Fair this happen. First of all, we want to thank Miss and she doesn’t even work this Fair! I believe Past Ellany for letting us hold this during the Fair. I also President Joe Potillo, Jr. was also helpful during want to thank Rey, the Office Staff, and 2nd Vice the fun night.

President Dennis Fraleigh for the work they did 1st Vice President Dominic Palmieri is also with this event. It was the first time we had it and a wonderful “Organizer of Fundraisers” and has it went well; hopefully there will be more to come! established these Fun Food Poker Nights—not just I am really glad to have an energetic group of for raising money, but for socializing and sharing Directors who are excited and determined to work our stories together. Dominic was involved in the for the members of NICA. If I left anyone out on WFA tour day in Houston and at the last minute, their accomplishments I apologize and will catch due to rain, an impromptu fundraising dinner was you next time. held.

I hope everyone has a healthy, prosperous, Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, our new West Council and fun season! Let’s try to reflect on one of the Board Member, also gave us an update on rules of our Code of Ethics: “I will assist my fellow Fundraisers in their neck of the words. They are members, share new knowledge with them, and being hosted the Jackson County Fair in Oregon, encourage them individually and collectively to Pima County Fair in Arizona, and the San Diego achieve and maintain the highest standards for County Fair in California. I know there will be our industry.” ▲ articles soon in the NICA News about these 6

April 2016 NICA News

“Director’s Voice” continued from page 5 ►►

Insurance by my agent Phil Teague. He really was a great help through this process and I personally can’t speak highly enough of this gentleman’s said, “Son, have you ever seen a miracle?” He said, professionalism and integrity. It is in these times “No, Dad, I don’t think so.” I told him with little to when we can see a man’s true character and no hesitation, “You just did, buddy!” Thankfully we his shined like a beacon in the sky. I was also were not injured and no bystanders were hurt. fortunate enough to have very understanding This left me with a really bad situation; I now Fairs that have let me switch trailers for the time had a trailer on the side of the highway with no being to get through the process of rebuilding way to pull it away. So, as always, we improvised! a new trailer. We all know it’s not as simple as I got out my trusty old welder and welded the wrecking a car and just going to the dealer for a pieces back together to get the bent and mangled new replacement. Hopefully all goes well in this remains of my trailer back to winter quarters. This process and I will have a new trailer out for our is where, in my eyes, my fortune comes in. After 2016 Summer season. a pretty lengthy period of insurance adjusters, Good luck to everyone this spring! Be safe and trailer manufacturers, and repair shops, the final try to help each other out as much as possible. judgment was that this one’s headed to the scrap “Together We Can!” ▲ yard. Thankfully it was insured with Westfield

Office Update !!

The sound of nature is alive as the month begins, echoing the start of the Spring in late March. The NICA Office has been blooming with energy, as well, fully returning to the swing of things after our annual convention in February.

Speaking of the NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods 2016 Food Show, check out our dedicated feature for the event on page 16.

The NICA Office was able to go to the Strawberry Festival in Plant City, Florida on March 8th to participate in a Member Benefits discussion led by Director Sandy Class and Secretary Kathy Ross. Many benefits representatives spoke and educated attendees on their programs. See page 15 for photos and a summary of events.

We accepted the last of the Scholarship

Æ

Applications on April 1st. Next there will come a review process by a chosen group of impartial NICA Members to determine who meets the criteria of the awards. The list of award winners will be available in time for the June issue, and we will personally contact those who won. Good luck to all who applied this year!

The NICA Office is always here to help you. If you have any comments, questions, or concerns regarding memberships, renewals, benefits, or general inquiries, you can contact the office at (813) 438-8926 or by email at nica@nicainc.org.

We are here to assist and to make NICA better.

Have a great month and a great start to your season! ▲

HIDDEN OBJECT

April may bring showers, so make sure you look for the Umbrella so you can stay dry and enter to win a Gift Card worth $25!

Find the Umbrella

BUt What if you Find it?

Contest!

Well, lucky reader, tell us where you think it is by entering online at www.nicainc.org/pages/hiddenobject

You may also call the NICA Office at (813) 438-8926 or send us a letter with the page number, general page location, your name, address, and phone number to NICA, Hidden Object Contest, 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511. Member entries must be sent in by April 30, 2016.

Happy Searching this Month! The Next Winner Could Even be You! April 2016 NICA News

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April 2016 NICA News

Member’s Voice The greatest part of NICA is the Membership!

The Membership’s Voice influences where the organization is headed and what it can improve, especially when it comes to which benefits are being used and which events people are interested in attending. The NICA Office has been continuing their survey of responses from Renewing Members.

Susan Hewing, JMS Concessions of Windsor, Illinois, described NICA as “fantastic!” Her parents were originally in the restaurant business and she continued to stay in the food industry. She became the first woman to be a General Manager in her area, but she soon grew tired of the grind of working 50-60 hours a week for someone else. She “took a leap of faith” and started her own concession business. Eighteen years later she is still in business and likes the freedom of not having to commit to working all year. She was introduced to NICA by Adam McKinney, CCE and wished she had found out about it sooner.

Susan especially likes the national pricing and rebates, but also enjoys the camaraderie among its members. Whenever she has called the NICA Office, they have always helped her find an answer or solution to her problem. She “loves the NICA News” and, in fact, has saved all the issues so she can check back to view some of the trends of the industry and review articles about DOT changes.

Jane Harris, aka “Mama Jane” from Pensacola, Florida, works with The Best Around and is famous on the Midway and on several TV food shows for creating unique flavored funnel cakes— from Red Velvet to Funnel Bacon on a Stick. Be sure to watch “Carnival Eats” on April 28 and May 26 at 10:00 PM to see her techniques. Jane described her relationship with NICA as “great!”

Everyone she has met related to NICA has asked how they can “help me.” She has made use of the AutoZone and CheckInn Direct benefits. She also has a daughter who won the scholarship one year.

Jane feels that the NICA News is “doing a good job across America.” She reads it mainly online because she is seldom stationery. Jane is one to

NICA has come a long way since its “beginnings because it started with good

people who stayed with it and they included Fair Management to get all sides of the industry’s perspective.

”

always help with any NICA event whether it be a bowling tournament, survival kit, or even selling 50/50 tickets. She is often the seller of the most tickets, but has—out of more than 50 tries—only won once.

Rick Oxford, Televac Products from Versailles, Missouri, stated that his relationship with NICA has always been good. He has made use of the AutoZone, Ford Fleet vehicle discount, and CheckInn Direct stating that sometimes one needs to shop the pricing. He thinks one should “take any savings you can get.” He feels that the NICA News has good variety, especially getting outside vendors to participate. “They have done an excellent job.” He believes NICA has come a long way since its beginnings because it started

►► “Member’s Voice” continued on page 10 April 2016 NICA News

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“Member’s Voice” continued from page 9 ►►

This is a value that he says goes beyond the benefits for saving money. Tracey makes use of those too—mainly by saving on products offered with good people who stayed with it and they

by Pepsi and AutoZone. In fact, he saved $67 on included Fair Management to get all sides of the one brake job by buying parts with AutoZone and industry’s perspective. “that is more than half the price of membership!”

Doug Dills, Dills Concessions out of Venice, He likes to “justify stuff” and “NICA membership Florida, described his relationship with NICA as is easy to justify” for him. When asked about “very helpful.” He said that it has many benefits his thoughts on running his business, he felt that help with reduced pricing for a variety of that “Customer retention is important to all supplies and insurance, auto parts through businesses,” and “saving enough to cover your AutoZone, and even paint through Sherwinfees sure helps.” Tracey finds the NICA News to Williams! “Better buying power can be very helpful be a very professional and informative magazine. to any Concessionaire.” He enjoys reading the “They do an excellent job and give you information NICA News and suggested that we could include when needed, such as DOT info in June. Then they a list of upcoming events in future issues. Great swap it up and mix in other information too. NICA idea Doug! tries and seems to be geared for the masses!”

Tracey Parker, Parker Family Concessions The NICA Office plans to continue these calls from Lordstown, Ohio, thinks that NICA is “Great!” to our Renewing Members throughout 2016 and According to Tracey, the main reason it is so great beyond, especially since we have just added a is that, even with the main office in Florida, they FedEx benefit through Source1 Purchasing and focus on the membership as a whole in order would love to hear your experience. If you hear to make sure that every Member feels like their from us, we’d love to know what’s on your mind! If needs are considered and that they are “included.” we haven’t called yet, we’ll be in touch soon. ▲

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April 2016 NICA News

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April 2016 NICA News

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Thoughts from a This month’s Statement of Communications & Management Philosophy is from Charles Cox, CCE, Concessions by Cox of Ohio, Inc.:

Charles Cox, CCE “A deciding factor in how well a company succeeds lies in the communication between management and their employees. In order for communication to be successful within the concession company, management must first learn to keep it simple, remain open and honest, and have written communication with the employees.

The number one key to effectively communicating with employees is to keep it simple. The more complex a statement, the more others can read into what is being said, and perhaps misconstrue the initial statement. Management should be brief and to the point in all that they are asking of the employees so as not to confuse and clutter the remark.

Secondly, management should keep the lines of communication open and always remain honest with the employees. One should Charles Cox, CCE remain open to comments and suggestions from employees, Concessions by Cox of because within the workforce, may lie some very good ideas. The Ohio, Inc. management should always remain honest with the employees CCE Earned in 1999 so that they will reciprocate the honesty in their work, and communication with the management.

Finally, written interaction is equally important when communicating with employees. If a member of management has a written form to back up what they have already verbally stated, perhaps, the employees will be more likely to understand and follow through with each task at hand. Additionally, written communication aids in lack of confusion between management and employees. As well as helping with the confusion, written communication also helps to reiterate what has already been spoken.

In today’s concession industry, communication is the key. Without fortuitous communication between management and the employees, success lies far out of reach. To obtain a good rapport with employees, management should remember three basic principles, simplicity, honesty, and openness, as well as a written contact with the employees. If managers in the concession industry can abide by these three principles, then the ‘sky is the limit’ in all of their business ventures.” ▲ The CCE Program was developed to recognize the professionalism of Concessionaires. The title of CCE represents a deep understanding and respect for the Fair and Festival business and indicates that the titleholder will perform with the highest level of professionalism.

The applicant must have a minimum of seven years as a full-time chief operating manager of an independent concession business and be a current member of NICA, at least one State Association, and of one of the following associations: IAFE, IFEA, or the WFA. The applicant must then complete a questionnaire and a 150-200 word personal philosophy of communication and management as it relates to the fair industry.

Applications are accepted until October 1st of each year—don’t miss your chance!

Visit the CCE website for more details on how to apply: goo.gl/H3VKUf 12

April 2016 NICA News

April 2016 NICA News

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April 2016 NICA News

Celebrating a Successful Casino Night Kathy Ross, Secretary The 2nd Annual St. Lucie Fundraiser & Casino Night was held on March 1, 2016 at 11:30 PM and there were over 50 attendees this year and over $2100 raised for the NICA Scholarship Fund! This event would not have been possible without the generous donation of the use of the Budweiser Tent by the St. Lucie County Fairgrounds and General Manager Jeanne Keaton’s willingness to help with the event.

The party got started shortly after closing on Tuesday night when an “All You Can Eat” pasta and meatball dinner was served. As the host of the event, I addressed the attendees, sharing about the educational opportunities and other features of the recent Business Expo and Fare Foods Food Show in Tampa, Florida. I also spoke about the Transfer of Ownership Policy, created by the Rhinebeck Fair after the roundtable discussion in Las Vegas at the IAFE Convention, and I highlighted the 2016 NICA Scholarship Program and the new policy of accepting Employee Members’ applications.

Casino tables were soon set up while the meal was enjoyed, with the Fair selling beer and wine to the attendees, and the games started at 12:30 AM. Texas Hold ‘Em, Black Jack and Roulette were all available to play and everyone had a great time!

The homemade meatballs and sauce were donated by table sponsors Todd Desgranges and

Joe Blume of Stuart Confections, Allen Perkins of Perkins Pizza donated garlic knots, table sponsor Jay Russell, Russell Foods provided sweet tea, and Kris, Robin, and Soni Ryan of K&R Concessions helped in setting up and serving the food. Table sponsors also included Evan Colglazier, Pickle Barrel and Mark Frazier, Frazier Fair Foods.

Gerald Sapp, Triple T Concessions, won the camping space for 2017, donated by the St. Lucie County Fairgrounds and Mark Frazier won the Mystery Prize—eight boxes of Girl Scout Cookies!

Thank you to everyone that helped make this a great night! Fun was had by all and I am looking forward to next year’s event, where the pasta dinner will be changed to a chili cookoff between the Concessionaires, so start working on those chili recipes now! “Together We Can!” ▲

April 2016 NICA News

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NICA BUSINESS EXPO & Fare Foods 2016 Food Show ROCKS THE HOUSE Dominic Palmieri, 1st Vice President I was asked to give the Business Expo Report to our members in Tampa who attended our Gala Event and Dinner. As I look back at the recap I presented, I realized there was so much for attendees to learn about, talk about, and discover all new opportunities to help make their bottom-line better. We started with solid informational and learning sessions on Monday, topped off with a great opening night Food Show presented The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with Dennis Fraleigh,

by Fare Foods. Each of the first two nights 2nd Vice President, Jennifer Giordano, Treasurer, were followed by a Hospitality Night by Fare Sandy Class, Director, Ron and Laura Porter, Fare Foods, with snacks and great friends all Foods, Paulette Keene, President, Kathy Ross, Secretary, Audrey Poole, Fare Foods, and Dominic drinking Ron Porter’s libations. Great place Palmieri, 1st Vice President to cut up a few jackpots! We thank Laura, The week started off on Monday with Ron, and Audrey with Fare Foods for their “Jack and Jill of All trades,” presented by hard work and creating such a fun party Nancy Connors, Cinnamon Station. This atmosphere while we rolled up our sleeves was a comprehensive class on everything and got things done. concessions, even incorporating computer technology into your setup. See page 18 for her perspective on it.

The second workshop was “Point of Sale Options,” presented by Tina Walker from First Data. She went in-depth on options for accepting credit cards, cash register systems and how all the new technologies integrate together to help manage information. This Toasting the successful partnership of NICA and Fare Foods

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April 2016 NICA News

►► “NICA” continued on page 20

The 2016 Food Show Update Audrey Poole, Fare Foods

input would be greatly appreciated!

On Monday evening, Fare Foods and NICA held a ribbon cutting ceremony for What a week! February 7th – 10th the opening of the Food Show. What an marked the NICA Business Expo and Fare overwhelming response! Again, the Food Foods 2016 Food Show. The week kicked Show was sold out well in advance. The off on Sunday with a Super Bowl Party. attendance was over 1,000 people for Over 200 people attended this year’s event.

Monday and Tuesday! Wow! Our vendors Everyone enjoyed watching the game, food have told us this is one of the best Food and drinks, and visiting with their fellow Shows they attend all year. The event closed Concessionaires. If you missed it this time, on Wednesday evening with NICA’s General you sure don’t want to miss next year’s Membership Meeting with dinner sponsored event.

by Fare Foods, entertainment, and auction.

Then on to Monday, February 8th, where Fare Foods and NICA have partnered NICA arranged some very informational once again for next year’s event. Mark your seminars. The seminars continued through Wednesday and the attendance this year was calendar for February 5th – 8th, 2017. It will over the top. It’s a great opportunity to learn be held once again at the Sheraton Tampa East Hotel in Tampa, Florida. Please watch about different ways to help you be even for more information in the upcoming issues more successful in your business. If you have any suggestions or comments for next of the NICA News and on the Fare Foods website. ▲ year’s seminars, please contact NICA. Your

Scenes from the Super Bowl Party

Super Bowl Party hosts Laura and Ron Porter and Audrey Poole, Fare Foods, with Bill McKinney, NICA Past President and McKinney Food Services

Nancy Connors, Cinnamon Station, Paulette Keene, NICA President and Paulette’s Food Service, Linda McKinney, McKinney Food Services, and Gayle and Kevin McGrath, The Best Around

Dominic Palmieri, 1st Vice President, and Dennis Fraleigh, 2nd Vice President

A great crowd enjoying the game

The room filled up fast!

Broadcasting the Super Bowl

April 2016 NICA News

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You Never Know What YOU Will Learn

When You Speak at NICA’s Expo!

Nancy Connors, Cinnamon Station, LLC My first “First” of 2016 was attending the NICA Expo in February. My second “First” was being a speaker!

After five years as a Concessionaire and NICA Member, it was time to start running with the pack.

I was invited by Paulette Keene and Rey O’Day to offer a session and I jumped at the chance. As a long-time IT trainer, I enjoyed the opportunity to share what I have learned, and this was a not-to-be-missed opportunity. Here’s a secret: I have never shared what I know without getting as much, or more, information and knowledge back from the group.

The microphone and podium were mine, but I’m from a family of nine—I know how to share! In less than ten minutes, the people attending were sharing tips and tricks and new gadgets I’d never heard of. The interaction was infectious and since we were the first session of the event, I like to think it set the tone for us “First-timers” to pipe up at the remaining sessions. Before I knew it, the 45 minutes were up!

The room? It was empty when I arrived and full when I started. The topic? It was

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April 2016 NICA News

Nancy fielding a question at the “Jack & Jill of all Trades” session

“Jack (and Jill) of All Trades” when I started and technology when we wrapped up. The experience? It was exciting walking in and rewarding walking out. My advice? If you are asked to present at the Expo or another NICA gathering, do it! If you need some tips on how to do it and feel good about it, ask around.

Remember the NICA motto, “Together We Can!” That’s exactly what happened attending my first Expo and in my first NICA presentation. Together, we shared information, a few laughs, and maybe even a secret or two. The way I see it, if you spend 45 minutes in a session and leave with a single idea or tip that helps you down the road, it’s time well spent. And, after all, it’s a great way to meet people.

My session is over, but wait… I have more bullet points! Paulette! Rey! Help! There are only 10 months until the 2017 Expo. May I have an hour next time? ▲

Listening to our Members Rey O’Day, Interim Executive Manager The NICA Board of Directors (BOD) is very interested in what its members think makes NICA great and what keeps it from being greater. Approximately 50 members participated in a SWOTT analysis moderated

by John Leamer, Erie County Fair Director and conducted by the BOD during the 2016 NICA Business Expo in Tampa. A SWOTT analysis answers the question “What are the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats, and Trends facing NICA as an organization and NICA’s membership?”

The information collected will be put into consideration at the BOD annual planning meeting in April. At this meeting, the Strategic Plan is revised, the year’s “talking points” are decided, staff work is evaluated, and BOD protocols are put into place.

Membership input will also be incorporated into the decision making process for NICA’s 2016-2017 Goals.

Members agreed that our Strengths are having a diverse membership that shares opportunities to communicate both socially and professionally with each other and sister organizations about matters that are important to our mutual success. We are proud that our buying power provides all a better bottom line. We are committed to

John Leamer explaining that SWOTT is Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats, and Trends

Rey O’Day, Interim Executive Director; John Leamer, Consultant; Paulette Keene, 1st VP; and Joe Potillo, Jr. President are ready to start the NICA SWOTT analysis

better communication at every level and in every form.

Weaknesses revolve around growing and retaining membership, stopping staff turnover, providing better information about benefits, organizing more social gatherings, attending more industry events, energizing members to participate, developing benefits for our non-food members, and acting like a national organization while respecting regional differences.

Our Opportunities are many. We want to build regional councils, expand our membership to straight sales, Fairs, and Carnival concessions, engage younger members, provide more gatherings, change perceptions, communicate NICA’s many positives, embrace technology, persistently present our topics at industry events, obtain more benefits, develop leadership, look at multi-year memberships, and communicate and educate whenever possible!

The Threats around us are exclusive sponsorships, regulations, aging membership, increasing costs of operating

►► “Listening” continued on page 20

April 2016 NICA News

19

“Listening” continued from page 19 ►► in every category, overbooking, Fairs that do not manage contracts, finding a dependable labor pool, the economy, and the speed at which technology changes.

NICA has core values that include being professional, productive, social, inclusive, NICA Directors Jennifer Giordano and Sandy Class organized, and united as in a shared belief taking suggestions from attendees during the in ”Together We Can!” We have experienced SWOTT analysis success by staying focused on our long-term strategic goals: Growing Membership, Being a Professional Voice in the Industry, Adding Benefits and Information about them, and being Financially Responsible.

The BOD is committed to using what they learned from you, the members of NICA, by applying your observations, concerns and ideas to the development of the 2016-2017 Strategic Goals. Watch for them in upcoming A room full of NICA members sharing their ideas with NICA News editions. AND THANK YOU! ▲ the NICA Board of Directors

“NICA” continued from page 16 ►► includes sales, labor, ordering, accepting credit/debit cards, and more accessible all from one device. After speaking with Mrs. Walker, I was pleased with her appreciation for how she engages with our members. She was excited by the turnout, felt the group had great questions, and showed interest in options.

Tracey McQuilken, Advanced Testing Solutions and former DOT, rounded out Monday afternoon with a discussion on DOT updates and changes within the new year.

On Day Two there was a great session on how to set up, fix and maintain your soda machines

by Michael Curci, Midway Stainless Mike Curci during his Fabricators. So if workshop

20

April 2016 NICA News

Tina Walker’s “Point of Sale Options” workshop

you’re not soda savvy, this would have been good for you.

Finishing up Tuesday morning was “Finding the Right Balance for NICASWOTT,” moderated by John Leamer. This session was very well attended by members, directors and management. See page 20 for a more in-depth look at this session.

Starting off Tuesday afternoon was “Risk Management,” presented by Phil Teague, Hummel Group.

This session spoke Phil Teague during about insurance of all “Risk Management”

kinds. These are important topics to think about in order to cover yourself for mishaps in and around your business.

David Scott Peters giving great tips on Closing out training Tuesday afternoon was “Effective Training Systems and Labor Controls: Key Ways to Train and Stay on Budget,” presented by David Scott Peters, The Restaurant Expert. This was a great session on how to easily create budgets, stay on them, and keep more money in your pocket. Creating checklists (which we all take for granted) are one of the most effective ways to keep employees on track and them not wasting your time and costing you money.

Wednesday morning opened with the well attended ServSafe Class and Certification session, presented by John Desiderio, Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. For most of you, your business is required to have a certified manager/owner on site that is ServSafe certified in approximately 80% of the counties across the USA. Some members attending were first timers, while others were in for re-certification. Keeping our guests safe from food borne illnesses is our duty to them and our industry. The cost was very reasonable at $135 per person.

“NICA’s Strategic Plan,” moderated by Rey O’Day, Interim Executive Manager, was also held Wednesday morning as a follow up to the SWOTT session on Tuesday. NICA

Taking suggestions during “NICA’s Strategic Plan”

Members were able to voice their opinions regarding the results of the day before and thought up various solutions. We thank Rey for her dedication to helping this Board stay laser-focused and this session helped tie both days together.

The annual Past Presidents and Directors The Past Presidents and meeting Directors Meeting Luncheon luncheon was a lively gathering. We heard from most of our fellow members who shared experiences, history, opinions, and suggestions. We think of this as an ongoing Advisory Board.

Lee Stevens greeting the room at the start of the General Membership Meeting

Finally, it was on to the Grand Finale, the 23rd Annual General Membership Meeting emced by Lee Stevens, followed by the Gala Dinner, silent and live auctions, and comedy entertainment by Bobby McLamb.

The first half of the meeting served as an update on the current state of NICA as an organization with Treasurer, Council, and Membership Reports by Board Members.

The Coca-Cola Membership Contest drawing followed, with Zach Risen, CocaCola, and Justin Sattler, Director, drawing the winners. The cash prizes went to Russ Harrison, CCE, Cash Prize winner Russ Past President, Harrison, CCE with Justin and Jay Wells, Sattler and Zach Risen

►► “NICA” concluded on page 22

April 2016 NICA News

21

“NICA” continued from page 21 ►►

Board: “the Gang of 8” or “the Survivors.”

Greg Miller, CCE, Gayle McGrath, CCE, David Penn, Randy Reichert, CCE, Tony Trafton, CCE NICA West Council and the Carnival Cruise and Outgoing President Joe Potillo, Jr. each prize went to April Wood, NICA West Council. spoke of his encouragement, motivation, Marla Calico, good humor, discipline, and inspiration.

President and CEO While the award was given in recognition of of IAFE, and Kent his leadership, he stated, “He accepted the Hojem, Chairman trophy for his team.” He is also grateful for of the Board, the good influence of Past President Tom came to address Hodson, CCE whom he felt was a motivator our membership who taught him selling skills and how to be Marla Calico IAFE CEO and reiterated the strong. and President importance of our The meeting members to their organization and how well closed with a we work together. As sister organizations, we heartfelt Passing should have a great symbiotic working team of the Gavel from to foster similar Outgoing President ideals, ethics and Joe Potillo, Jr. to programs all for the Incoming President good of the most Paulette Keene. Each The Passing of the Gavel important thing President shared their unique experiences we ALL serve: THE working with NICA and each other.

CUSTOMER. For those of you who didn’t make it to Kent Hojem, IAFE The Food Show Tampa week, I say, Chairman of the Board Update, presented “You Missed a

by Audrey Poole, Fare Foods, followed, with Great Opportunity!” a focus on the high attendance and overall Fortunately, the good success of this year’s Food Show. news is that you The 2016 Hall of Fame inductee was Russ have the chance to Harrison, CCE, Past President. The speakers do it next year. Put Presidents Paulette at the induction were the members of his it on your calendar Keene and Joe Potillo, Jr. laughing with now: February 6-8, Lee Stevens 2017.

As you read this issue of NICA News, you will find other critically important issues that YOU, our members, have asked for, inquired about, and/or questioned. What is amazing is the participation we get from many of you.

For those of you wanting to get involved, this is the time to start. Reach out to the NICA Office and they will get you pointed in the right direction or to the right person.

The accomplishments this year have been 2016 Hall of Fame inductee Russ Harrison, CCE with remarkable. The NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods Food Show is a great example of Jamie Allen, the Redwood Log Lady, and his wife how “Together We Can!” ▲ DeDe Harrison

22

April 2016 NICA News

Seen at the Food Show

Tom McCarthy, Wes Heinkel, and Denny Heinkel with Heinkel’s

Brian Berry with Sugardale Food Service serving up a hot dog

Audrey Poole, Fare Foods, with Hunter Graves, Debbie Williams, and Dave Williams, Mr. G’s

Joplin Taylor and Brandee Mellert, Allied Specialty Insurance, with James Ingram, Deggeller Foods

Laura Porter, Fare Foods, with Rex and Mary Ellen Cusumano, Cusumano & Sons

Lisa Dominique with Sippers by Design

Kay and Ron Flanigan, FB Purnell Sausage

Nick Farina and Rob Berk, Berk Enterprises

Dan and Jan Smoots, Fanestil Meats

Joe Colglazier, Colglazier Enterprises, won the $2500 Cash Bonanza sponsored by Allied Specialty Insurance

Joe Del Castillo, Margie Caffaro, and Linda Andrade, Brakebush Brothers

Carl Ratterman, Ratterman and Associates, and Tim Weir, Leon’s Texas Cuisine

April 2016 NICA News

23

SOUVENIR BOTTLE PROGRAM NICA APPROVED. MADE IN THE USA. IN STOCK NOW. DISTRIBUTOR READY.

FREE P.O.S. KITS

NICA Approved Bottle

Easy to order. Immediate shipping available.

Drive revenue to your concession with the NICA approved 32 oz. Souvenir Bottle. Free point of sale kits are provided with the bottle to help support your refill program.

To view all of our stock products or place an order, visit our website: www.whirleydrinkworks.com/NICA 24

April 2016 NICA News

Rallying for Member Benefits As you have likely read in the Member’s Voice article published each month in the NICA News, NICA’s benefit partners provide a great value for our members! In fact, some of our benefits more than pay for the NICA annual dues when taking in account the savings and rebates off of products that a Concessionaire would likely buy regardless.

To spread the word on some of our most popular programs, NICA invited representatives from a few of our benefit companies to explain their programs and how it can help members with their bottom-line and beyond. This Member Benefits Rally was held March 8th at the Florida Strawberry Festival under the Butcher Boys tents, provided by Dennis Fraleigh, 2nd Vice President.

It was a great turnout of over 30 attendees, both members and non-members. Each attendee filled out a survey sheet that was entered into a drawing for a bouquet of lottery scratch off cards.

The hosts of the day were Sandy Class, Director, and Kathy Ross, Secretary, who opened the discussion and introduced the speakers: Audrey Poole, Fare Audrey Poole, Fare Foods Foods, Tina Walker, First Data, Greg Worth, Crystal Automotive, Joe Betras, Whirley Drink Works, and David Koretsky, Source1 Purchasing.

Starting off, Audrey Poole detailed the Fare Foods benefit program and gave an overview of the NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods 2016 Tina Walker, First Data Food Show. Tina Walker explained First Data’s available financial services and technology for NICA Members and how having a dedicated credit processing system can be beneficial. Greg Worth went in detail regarding Crystal Automotive’s NICA Family and Friends Discount Program and the different varieties of vehicles that they can Greg Worth, Crystal ship around the country Automotive

Ellany Johnson, Florida Strawberry Festival, speaking to the attendees

at no cost to members. Joe Betras showed the audience the new “NICA Approved” Whirley Drink Works cups that are part of their refill program this year and explained the benefits of offering the program to customers.

Last but not least, David Koretsky educated the audience on Source1 Purchasing, the NICA Joe Betras, Whirley Sysco Marketplace, and a myriad of other savings that are unlocked by signing up.

All in all, the Member Benefits Rally was informative, insightful, and entertaining.

Ellany Johnson, Florida David Koretsky, Source1 Purchasing representing Strawberry Festival, the NICA Sysco gave a speech at the Marketplace end highlighting her relationship with NICA before drawing the winner for the prize drawing. The lucky winner was Past Director James La Fratta, Perfection Confections— we hope your scratch offs are just as lucky! We look forward to the next time we get a chance for discussing benefits and enjoying each The prize winner James La Fratta, Perfection Confections other’s company.

“Together We Can!”▲ with Ellany Johnson April 2016 NICA News

25

We put the

fu n

in funnel cake!

Custom Ingredients From TasteMaker/Reed Food Technology Specializing In: • Funnel Cake Mix • Corn Dog Mix • Batters & Breadings • Sauces

Proudly Distributed Through Fare Foods • Call 800-651-1601 For More Information • www.farefoods.com

Fa re Foods

26

April 2016 NICA News

April 2016 NICA News

27

WE DELIVER! We deliver to events on site in 44 different states and Canada. Customers value our friendly customer service and with our warehouses centrally located in Tampa, Florida and Southern Illinois they

Complete supply of all concession products!

• Meats • Produce • Frozen Items • Dry Goods • Canned Goods • Paper Products • Fun Foods • Custom Printed Cups

appreciate consistent delivery of product

Call and Speak with a Customer Service Representative Today!

to their events throughout the year.

1-800-651-1601

COMPLETE SUPPLY OF ALL CONCESSION PRODUCTS! Meat

28

Produce

April 2016 NICA News

Frozen Items

Dry Goods

Canned Goods

Paper Products

Fun Food

Custom Printed Cups

2016 Membership Contest Leaderboard* General Membership Family Owned & Operated • Serving Our Customers Since 1904

Proudly serving the concessions

industry with their produce needs.

Distributed Through Fare Foods Call 800-651-1601 For More Information Perfect Stix LLC Food Skewers Are Available Through Fare Foods!

Call 800-651-1601 For More Information www.farefoods.com 4416 US Highway 1, Vero Beach, FL 32967 • www.perfectstix.com Perfect Stix LLC products are meticulously crafted with 100% white birch wood and are produced in an ISO 9002 Registered Facility.

Our wood products are great for the environment and are of such high-quality, that we had to name ourselves Perfect Stix LLC

Etta Pence..............................................................................2 Vinnie Valentino....................................................................2 Carmel Dyer-Pittroff..............................................................1 Larry McConnell, CCE............................................................1 Faith McGee...........................................................................1 Kevin McGrath, CCE..............................................................1 Janey Miller...........................................................................1 Jack Sturgeon.......................................................................1 Jack Woods II, CCE................................................................1

Northeast & West Councils Ashley Murray.......................................................................2 Lisa Thompson Baker...........................................................1 Kim Barr.................................................................................1 Russ Harrison, CCE...............................................................1

Board of Directors Dominic Palmieri...................................................................2 Kathy Ross............................................................................2 Dan Lusenhop.......................................................................1

Administration Office......................................................................................8

*See the back cover for rules and prizes

Next Month in the May is our transportation issue! Travel benefits, DOT Updates, Spring Workshop, and more!

If you have a story, announcement, or idea let us know at communications@nicainc.org and we can reserve your spot.

Advertise Your Business in

by calling the NICA Office today at (813) 438-8926, by emailing communications@nicainc.org, or by downloading the online Insertion Order at www.nicainc.org/pages/advertising.

Contact us today to reserve your spot!

April 2016 NICA News

29

2016 Events Calendar

Representing NICA & Its Industry Partners April 1: Scholarship Applications due in office 4-6: IAFE Zone 4 Annual Meeting • Green Bay, WI 4-6: Board of Directors Spring Workshop • St. Petersburg, FL 19: Pima County Fair Poker Tournament • Tucson, AZ 21-23: Combined IAFE Zone 3 and 6 Meeting • South Padre Island, TX 25-28: 48th Annual IAFE Management Conference • Tulsa, OK

May 6-7: IAFE Zone 1 Annual Meeting • Concord, NH 12-14: Combined IAFE Zone 2 Annual Meeting and Florida Federation of Fairs & Livestock Shows Annual Convention • St Augustine, FL 19-21: IAFE Executive Summit for State and Provincial Associations • Springfield, MO

June 1: Board of Directors nominations due in office 20: 10th Annual NICA West Golf Tournament • Solana Beach, CA

30

April 2016 NICA News

July 15: Membership directory update forms sent to all members

August 15: Directory updates due in the office

September 1: Directory Advertising due in the office 30: Board of Directors election ballots due in the office

For Office Use Only

National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc.

Date

1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 Office: 813-438-8926 • Fax: (813)438-8928 E-mail: nica@nicainc.org • Website: www.nicainc.org

#

NICA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

q Mr. q Mrs.

q Ms.

First

Last

Name of business Physical address Mailing address

City

City

Primary phone number

State

Zip

State

Zip

Alternate / Cell phone number

Email

Website

How would you like to receive your NICA News? q Mail q Email Would you like to advertise? q Yes q No

Referred by

Fill out the information below as accurately and as detailed as possible. Information and Keywords provided below will be used for your entry in the NICA Annual Membership Directory and as keywords to search for your business on the NICA website.

Annual Membership Fees Independent Concessionaire

Associate

q Independent Concessionaire............................................$125 q Additional Member...............................................................$75

q

Fair / Festival over 75,000 attendance............................$125

q

Fair / Festival under 75,000 attendance...........................$75

q Employee................................................................................$50 q Retired....................................................................................$50

q

Manufacturer / Distributor / Industry Supplier..............$125

q

Carnival / Circus Operator..............................................................$125

Check a category below and provide a detailed description of your company’s services:

q

Special Services..................................................................$125

q

Stationary Concession......................................................$125

A person or entity who provides services to the concession industry.

Voting:

Non-Voting:

q Commercial Exhibitors / Retail q Attractions / Entertainment q Services

q Food q Games

Description:

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________

Provide a detailed description of your organization / company’s services below: _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ Mail Check or Money Order to NICA’s office at 1043 E. Brandon Blvd. Brandon, FL 33511

Concessionaire General Routing Information

List all states where you conduct your concession business:

_________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ Fairs and Festivals

List three Fairs or Festivals worked in the past year :

1. _______________________________________________________ 2. _______________________________________________________ 3. _______________________________________________________

Visit our website for NICA Membership Benefits: www.nicainc.org I understand that my application is subject to final approval by the NICA Board of Directors. I also understand that if my application is not accepted, the amount paid will be refunded to me. If accepted for membership in NICA, I hereby agree to abide by its by-laws and rules.

Applicant’s signature

Date

q

Visa

q

Mastercard

q

American Express

Credit card no.

Security Code

Expiration Date

TOTAL

Signature of credit card holder I authorize NICA to charge the agreed amount listed above to my credit card provided herein. I agree I will pay for this purchase in accordance with the issuing bank cardholder agreement.

The NICA sponsored $10,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance Policy is automatically provided to all Independent Concessionaire Members.

Beneficiary ________________________________________ Phone ___________________

National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc. 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 Time Sensitive Mail • April 2016 Issue

PRSRT STD U. S. POSTAGE PAID STEVENS POINT WI PERMIT NO. 272