August 2016 NICA News

Contents • August 2016 FEATURES 09 Member’s Voice

Jacqueline Bradbury, Sweet Cheeks, LLC; Shane DeVooght, Superior Land Concessions; John Christopher, Wild Goose Concessions; Joanie Monroe, L. T. Concessions; Tom Ferguson, Concessions, LTD

12 Thoughts from a CCE

Jack Woods, CCE, Woods Family Concessions

16 Ask the 2017 Board Nominees

07 NICA Selects an Executive Director 07 Office Update 08 Association Announcements 21 Northeast Council Launched!

24 West Council Celebrates 10th Anniversary with NICA Events

Activities & Events 07 Hidden Object Contest 33 Coca-Cola Membership Contest 34 2016 Events Calendar

AdvertiSers

News & Articles 04 Newest Members & Member Renewals 05 President’s Message Paulette Keene

05 Director’s Voice Dennis Fraleigh

23 Allied Specialty Insurance 34 Alpha Baking 27 Berk Concession Supply 30 Brakebush Brothers 02 Coca-Cola 27 Cusumano & Sons 22 Fanestil Meats 30 Fare Foods 28 Fontanini 33 Haas & Wilkerson Insurance 26 Heinkel’s 26 K & K Insurance

30 Lasco 15 Mr. G’s 14 National Food Group 22 R3 15 Rio Syrup 13 Sippers by Design 27 Source1 Purchasing 23 Swanel Beverage 14 Teti Bakery 29 THE Insurance 22 & 32 Whirley 14 WNA

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 © 1993-2016 NICA, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

August 2016 NICA News

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This Month’s Newest Members!

David Brown Sugar’s Concession Hot Springs, AR

Larry Fyfe Fyfe Concessions Des Moines, IA

Brian Lynn Victor Products Co. Richmond, VA

John Traxler Captain Ken’s Foods Saint Paul, MN

Chris Conkle Conkle’s Concessions Lakeport, CA

Brandon Korin Alaskan Soda Jerk Anchorage, AK

Deborah Shepherd D2 Concessions Terre Haute, IN

Marty Zinder Victor Products Co. Richmond, VA

We wish a warm welcome to all eight of our new members! Remember, one referred new member is an entry into the Coca-Cola Membership Contest. See the back cover for more information on prizes and rules.

This Month’s Member Renewals Vince Agnifili Oasis Aqua Massage Nuevo, CA (2015)

Ernest Beck Coastal Carolina Fair Ladson, SC (1997)

Deborah Amos Big Onion Concession Nashport, OH (2002)

Bruce Beck Professional Concessions, Inc. West Palm Beach, FL (2013)

Lee Amos Big Onion Concession Nashport, OH (2002) David Athey Specialty Foods Indianapolis, IN (1999) Brent Bair Bair’s Concessions, Inc. Lancaster, OH (1993) Dane Baldwin D & D County Fair Cinnamon Rolls Oakhurst, CA (2009) Rick Barcena Bayshore Services, LLC Tampa, FL (1993) Constance Barham Hot Dog on a Stick San Marcos, CA (2007) Gary Barham Hot Dog on a Stick San Marcos, CA (2007) Mark Baugher Carousel Concessions Middletown, MD (1999) Rod Beach Beach Concessions Hillsdale, MI (1995)

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August 2016 NICA News

Mark Becker Becker Concessions, LLC Waterloo, IA (1996) Tracy Becker, CFEE The Autumn Leaf Festival Clarion, PA (2003) Dustin Beener Hardenbrook Concessions Urbandale, IA (2002) Cindy Bellew Georgia National Fair & Agricenter Perry, GA (1997) Raymond Bianco Bianco’s Foods, LLC Anderson, SC (1995) Daniel Bianco Bianco’s Foods, LLC Anderson, SC (2005) Perry Bianco Bianco’s Quality Food Saint Cloud, FL (2010)

Patricia Blomsness JPB South Barrington, IL (2011) Joseph Blume Stuart Confections, Inc. Stuart, FL (2014) Frank Boeck D & F Enterprises North Tonawanda, NY (1999) Ronald Boeger Happy Day Pony Ride Cherokee, CA (1998) Todd Brauch Happy D. Klown, LLC Lincoln, NE (2008) Bonnie Bribiesca Bribiesca Concessions Holcomb, KS (2012) Karen Brown Clay County Fair Association, Inc. Green Cove Springs, FL (2009) Eric Campbell E.N. Campbell’s Concessions, Inc. Cummings, IA (2000) Leon Carachilo Carachilo, Inc. Hawley, PA (2009)

Suzy Cason Oklahoma State Fair, Inc. Oklahoma City, OK (2014) Clay Chester Chester Foods South Vienna, OH (2005) George David Ciganovich Croessmann Wholesale DuQuoin, IL (2012) Jay Clements Triple Treat Shows, Inc. Cincinnati, OH (2002) Vicki Clements Triple Treat Shows, Inc. Cincinnati, OH (1996) Clark Converse Pasco County Fair Association, Inc. Dade City, FL (2009) Gary Crutchfield Crutchee’s, Inc. Sumner, TX (2012) Mike Cruz Canadian National Exhibition Toronto, ON (2010) Tommy Davis Tommy D’s Enterprises Cave Creek, AZ (2011)

►► “Renewals” continued on page 10

President’s Message Paulette Keene, President

seen where we can make improvements. On July 1st, she and the Office Staff became acquainted It is August already and and Michelle has learned their roles and daily the hot summer is upon us. routine operations. The staff and she are adjusting Most people are working well and I believe the staff are excited and glad to County Fairs, State Fairs, have an onsite Executive Director. Michelle will and Special Events. There also attend a few Fairs this year to meet a lot of have been many fundraisers you and get involved in the Fair Industry. for NICA, thanks to all who Rey O’Day, who successfully led NICA as put them together and also the Interim Executive Manager will continue to those who participated in support us by staying on as Executive Manager the recent Golf and Poker of NICA West. Rey was an outstanding Interim Tournaments.

Manager and on behalf of our Board of Directors I flew to the office in Brandon, FL last month and many members, we thank Rey for her many and welcomed Michelle Card, our new Executive contributions, dedication, and commitment to Director, and the Office Staff. I informed her of NICA. projects and routine NICA events and shared Michelle and I both want to grow the with her some things about the Fair Industry. We membership as do other Board Members. I are going to work together to move NICA to a believe we need to put together a packet and governing board and make less work on individual a message for the Board of Directors and loyal Board Members. members to take to conventions, associations, Michelle has already had a successful career. and Fair Industry meetings to help educate them As one of the members of the Search Committee, I about what NICA is about. Additionally, Jesse, our am satisfied that we have chosen the right person for the direction NICA is moving in. She is qualified ►► “Message” continued on page 6 in running nonprofit organizations and has already

Director’s Voice Dennis Fraleigh, 2nd Vice President

around this time, but maybe it’s not perfect timing for all of us that are getting ready for their By this point I’d have to season or are already out on the road. It seems say everyone is aware that to be an issue when the ballots come out—are all we are in an election year the members getting them? Is everyone’s mail here in this great country catching up with them in time to vote? Do the we all live and breathe in! It members really care if they vote or not? appears as though it’s going These are some concerns that we would like to be a historical one at the membership to know about and think about as that! As its already become you’re throwing your unused ballot in the circular quite a “circus” or maybe file months after the election! Maybe it’s time we even a bit of “schmazel” to look at when we vote and how the process can be use a word that has been restructured to work better for our membership. circulating throughout the Board since you, the These are some issues we as a Board have been members, graciously voted me into the fold.

As for NICA, we are gearing up for our own ►► “Director’s Voice” continued on page 8 election. This is a process that starts every year August 2016 NICA News

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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 Justin Sattler Daryl Whicheloe, CCE

Immediate Past President Joe Potillo, Jr.

Past Presidents’ Council 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)

OFFICE

Executive Director: Michelle Card michelle@nicainc.org

Office Manager : Yachika Rogers nica@nicainc.org

Communications, Marketing & Design: Jesse Willard communications@nicainc.org Bookkeeper: Lisa Fleming bookkeeper@nicainc.org

“Message” continued from page 5 ►► Communications Coordinator, along with Kathy Ross and Rey O’Day, have created a wonderful tri-fold brochure that will also assist in educating Concessionaires and drive up our membership.

It’s a US presidential election year and also time for NICA Board of Directors elections. Your ballot will be mailed to your home address, so please look for it. If you have a problem receiving your ballot, please let the office know. We want everyone to have a chance to vote. You will not be able to vote by email this year so please make an effort to mark your ballots and mail them back to the NICA Office in Brandon, FL by September 30th. Remember, your ballot MUST be inserted into the provided blue return envelope marked “Ballot.” Your vote counts. The Board is proud to have an unprecedented election this year with six members running to fill the three new members

West Council

Executive Manager : Rey O’Day rey@nicainc.org

Council Members: Kim Barr Nate Janousek Ashley Murray Mike Newman Dale Smith, CCE Lisa Thompson-Baker Jay Wells Daryl Whicheloe, CCE April Wood

Northeast Council

Coordinator : Jessica Castro

castj1881@hotmail.com

Council Members: Kelly Grout Russ Harrison, CCE Vinnie Nelson

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

Are you Interested in becoming a National Representative, Council Member, starting a Communications Committee, or learning more about NICA? Contact the NICA Office by phone at (813) 438-8926 or via email at nica@nicainc.org

coming on and one vacancy. This election has created a buzz, especially around the office, looking into the by-laws, policies and procedures, and past minutes. The Board wanted to make sure everything is done correctly due to the fact there should be three people added each year.

I would really like to take this opportunity to thank Jessica Castro, our Coordinator for the Northeast Council. We want to thank her for believing in NICA and helping to grow our organization nationally. They had their first meeting and it was very successful. For those of you who live in Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, New Hampshire, New Jersey or Rhode Island, this is a chance for you to get involved with your local Concessionaires, Commercial Sales people, and other NICA members. These opportunities can encourage you to share stories, get involved with fundraising, and see where we can help each other to grow your own businesses and your bottom line. Have a great summer! ▲

Are you selling your equipment, business, or need assistance running it?

Contact the NICA Office today at (813) 438-8926 or nica@nicainc.org and we will do our best to get the word out. We have many options available to help!

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August 2016 NICA News

NICA Selects New Executive Director After an extensive search by the NICA Board of Directors Search Committee, Paulette Keene, President, is proud to announce the hire of Michelle Card as the new NICA Executive Director.

Keene stated, “Card is welleducated and experienced in the operations of nonprofit organizations.” Michelle Card earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Lynn University, attended University of Miami with a concentration in Communications, and is completing the Master of Nonprofit Management degree offered by Florida Atlantic University, a program that immersed her in public policy and organizational development, priorities central to

NICA's continued progress.

Rey O’Day, who led NICA as the Interim Executive Manager will continue to support NICA by staying on as Executive Manager of NICA West.

Dominic Palmieri, Chair of the Search Committee, commented, “I am very pleased with the process and the final decision of the entire Board of Directors. Michelle's experience and past success will benefit all our members.”

Card says of her new position, “NICA has and will continue to play a unique and vital role in the promotion of positive growth and practices in the Concessionaire Industry. I am honored to have the opportunity to lead NICA in engaging our membership and critical partners to fully realize our shared vision for an emerging and prospering trade.” Keene added, “On behalf of the Board of Directors, we welcome Michelle and her enthusiasm to NICA.” ▲

Office Update !!

Greetings NICA Members! It has been a busy couple of months for the office, sending out ballots for the Board of Directors Election, preparing the update forms for our annual Membership Directory, and welcoming the newest member of the NICA Office team, Michelle Card, Executive Director.

With our new addition to the office, our phone system has changed as well. You will still be presented with a prompt when you call, but most of the extensions have been changed to fit our new setup. To make sure that your intended party

Æ

gets the message directly, the new extensions are listed below: • • • • •

Michelle Card, Executive Director: Ext. 102 Yachika Rogers, Office Manager: Ext. 103 Jesse Willard, Communications: Ext. 104 Lisa Fleming, Bookkeeper: Ext. 105 SanDee O’Brien, Volunteer: Ext. 101

If you have any questions you can reach the NICA Office by contacting nica@nicainc.org or (813) 438-8926. Have a great month! ▲

HIDDEN OBJECT

Oh no! Someone lost their snorkel somewhere in the pages of this issue. If you help locate it, you can win a Gift Card worth $25!

Find the Snorkel

So... What if you Find it?

Contest!

Well, lucky reader, tell us where you found it 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 August 31, 2016.

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

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Association

Announcements Do you have any news that you would you like to contribute to our Association Announcements section?

Contact the NICA Office at (813) 438-8926 or e-mail nica@nicainc.org to share your information and/or photos.

Directory Update Forms Mailing Out to Members It is that time of year again! On August 15, the NICA Office will be sending out Directory Updates in the mail to you. The information that you will provide will be our guideline for creating your entry in the 2017 NICA Membership Directory. No changes?

No problem! If so, you will have until October 10, 2016 to send your updates. If you would like to buy an ad in the directory, see page 31 for our updated insertion order. ▲

Coming Soon: Our 2016 Membership Survey The NICA Office would love to hear from you in regards to your membership experience. We plan on sending these surveys out to all members who have emails within the next month. If you fill your survey out before October 10, 2016, your company will be entered into a drawing for a gift card. We look forward to hearing from you! ▲

Calling All Contributors!—We Want Your Content!

Do you have a story, photo, announcement, classified ad, or opinion that you’d like to contribute to this magazine? Contact us today at (813) 438-8926 or communications@nicainc.org! ▲

►► “Association Announcements” continued on page 21 NICA’s new Executive Director Michelle Card.

Michelle has just begun to take over the reigns as of July 1st and is working with the Off ice Staff looking at. We are member based and we need the to get up to speed on the nuts and bolts of the support of the members when it’s time to vote. organization and the industry. Michelle has an Remember, when someone gets on the Board extensive background in the nonprofit world and that you’re not in favor of and you didn’t vote, is very excited to work with the Board and the “Tough!” The Office is working very hard to make membership. This is the first time NICA has gone sure all the ballots get out on time, so let’s show outside the box for leadership from an Executive some support this time around. There are more Director! It’s a fresh new start with new ideas and candidates running this year then we’ve had in opportunities that will help NICA with its future some time, which is all the more reason to take as an industry leader. It’s a big undertaking for a few minutes out of your day to check out the Michelle and her staff, but with the help of all nominees. Maybe put a little more effort in than of our sister organizations, the NICA Board, and you have in the past, read NICA News online if you most importantly, our members, it can be step into don’t have a hard copy, see when the ballots come a new chapter of NICA’s history. out, make sure you get one, and vote. It’s not that I wish everyone a happy summer. Be safe, hard; let’s not make this a circus! make lots of money, and by all means VOTE! See On a lighter note, I’d like to personally welcome you around campus. ▲

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

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August 2016 NICA News

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

The Member’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. This month, we focused on our Concession Members.

Jacqueline Bradbury, Sweet Cheeks, LLC from Maricopa, AZ, stated that she felt her relationship with NICA has been very good. She especially likes the NICA Sysco Marketplace program, although she admitted that she had not made use of many of the other benefits. Jacqueline really likes that through NICA ”we do have a voice.” She feels that the NICA News covers quite a bit and it has a lot of “social and business parts.” She likes to read it all when it arrives and enjoys looking at the pictures to “see who is doing what.” Additionally, she is planning on attending a NICA ”social get together” soon with several other members.

Shane DeVooght, Superior Land Concessions of Sarasota, FL, said he was introduced to NICA

by Russ Harrison, CCE. He feels that NICA works hard to ”help us make a living.” He likes the fact that NICA “does things that can help the person with one unit to those with multiple units.” His business is straight sales of toys, novelties, and sports memorabilia. Even though he only works five Fairs, he has maintained his membership because ”NICA just looks out for us.” He feels NICA helps with many issues as they arise. He appreciates all people who contribute their time and money to be active on the Board to help make NICA work for its members.

John Christopher, Wild Goose Concessions from Owasso, OK, described his relationship with NICA by stating ”they do everything I expected them to do, and they seem to be trying to improve.” He makes use of the National Pricing offered by Coca-Cola and he thinks the First Data benefit ”is really neat.” He enjoys reading the NICA News but would like to see more in-depth articles

and more about the Fairs. “It is always nice to see about the young people and the scholarship winners.” He enjoys all the articles that are about the individual members and what they are doing as we are really ”one large family” who may only see each other once a year.

Joanie Monroe, L. T. Concessions out of Marion, IN, said she and her husband Robert had a ”great experience” with NICA. They have been able to attend the Florida Week activities for several years and they learn something new every time. They also like to get their ServSafe food certification renewed through NICA at the show.

Their route runs from May through October and they are not long travelers, as they stay mainly in Indiana. They especially enjoy the NICA News as it shows them trends and new things that are happening across the country. Joanie thinks they “do a great job of balancing the the big operator with the small.” They both enjoy reading the NICA News as it can be very helpful. Robert commented that everyone needs to help get the younger generation involved in the family business. Joanie summed it up with ”Give good service and good

►► “Member’s Voice” continued on page 12 August 2016 NICA News

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“Renewals” continued from page 4 ►► William “Bill” Davis Davis Enterprises Bismark, ND (2011) William DiMondi The Delaware State Fair, Inc. Harrington, DE (2011)

Mark Frazier Frazier Fair Foods New Madison, OH (2003) Lynn Freeman Western Illinois Fair Griggsville, IL (2011)

Russell DiPasquale Family-A-’Fair’ Food Service, Inc. Hamburg, NY (1993)

Griffin Gillette Polar Bear Homemade Ice Cream Parlor Otego, NY (2009)

Scott Dow Hillsdale County Fair Hillsdale, MI (2004)

Chris Giordano, CFE State Fair of Louisiana Shreveport, LA (2002)

Patrick Dunham Cousins Confections, Inc. Raleigh, NC (2011)

Fred Giovannoni, Sr. Mr. G’s Concessions New Boston, MI (1993)

Charles Duquette Crystal Fantasies Largo, FL (1994) Harold Duvall W. W. Enterprises Lexington, KY (1999) Carmel Dyer-Pittroff The Original Australian Battered Potatoes, LLC Balboa, CA (2007) Larry Fain Fain’s Concessions / Taylor’s Doughboys Mayo, FL (2012) Rhonda Fike Bay City Concessions Mobile, AL (2001) Bob Fiste Fiste Enterprises, LLC dba Bowman’s Concessions New Madison, OH (2008) Michael Fowler Steve’s Meat Shop Blue Grass, IA (2015) Peggy Fraser Walworth County Fair Elkhorn, WI (2000)

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August 2016 NICA News

Jim Gleason Steele County Free Fair Owatonna, MN (1995) Russell Goetz Ice Kreme Mill, Ltd. Hanover, PA (1994) Dale Greenzweig Dale’s Concessions Kunkletown, PA (2010) Jack Hammer Three Rivers Festival Fort Wayne, IN (2007) John Hammons Show Me Fabrication, Inc. Sedalia, MO (1998) Kevin Hannon Porter County Fair Valparaiso, IN (2011) Doug Hansen Hansen’s Amusement Foods Fergus Falls, MN (1993) Becky Harmon Harmons Concessions Mt. Olivet, KY (2007) Roy Harrington Chautauqua County Fair Dunkirk, NY (2009)

Deanna Harrison Rudy’s, Inc. Hernando, FL (2006)

Sam Johnston Funderland, Inc. Sacramento, CA (2012)

Mike Heffron Mid-West Fairs Association Roseville, MN (2005)

Blaine Jones BJ’s Concessions Greenville, OH (2001)

Dale Hershberger Audio Innovators Riverview, FL (2010) Duane Hickman, CCE Quality Concessions Kiel, WI (1998) Leroy Hildebrand Classy Caboose Slaton, TX (2010) Tommy Hopkins Hopkins Food Service, Inc. Thomasville, GA (2007) Randy Howland Sarah’s Sweet Shoppe Emington, IL (2006) Andrew Imperati Dutchess County Fair Rhinebeck, NY (2010) Cathy Ivory Famous Gabby’s, Inc. Brooksville, FL (2003) Charles Ivory, CCE Famous Gabby’s, Inc. Brooksville, FL (1995) Jeff Jackson Wicked Wanda’s T-Shirts Vancleave, MS (2008) Belinda Jaycox Jaycox Mobile Concessions Columbus, OH (1995) Janet Jeffers Southern Specialties New Smyrna Beach, FL (2013) Art Jencks Karen’s Concessions, LLC Owasso, OK (2007)

Brian Jones BCSS Concessions Avon, IL (2003) Debbie Jones BJ’s Concessions Greenville, OH (2003) Rick K. Pickering, CEO California Exposition & State Fair Sacramento, CA (1997) Paul Kane Katering, Inc. Easton, PA (1999) Kenneth Kasinak Golden West Concessions San Diego, CA (2007) Greg Kaupke Indiana Beef Cattle Association, Inc. Indianapolis, IN (2015) Jeanne Keaton St. Lucie County Fair Ft. Pierce, FL (2007) Mike Kinnear Dawghouse Concessions Des Moines, IA (2000) Lori Kirby Illinois State Fair Springfield, IL (1993) Renae Korslien North Dakota State Fair Minot, ND (1993) John Koutoufaris John The Greek C Food Bethel Park, PA (1996) James La Fratta Perfection Confections, Inc. Ruskin, FL (1993)

Brad Price Godfather’s Pizza Spirit Lake, IA (2005)

Siegrid La Fratta Perfection Confections, Inc. Ruskin, FL (1996)

Dennis Merigian Merigian’s Caramel Corn, Inc. Grand Rapids, MI (1993)

C.E. Norris Lake County Fair Association Eustis, FL (1995)

Les Leach Heart of Illinois Fair Peoria, FL (1993)

Saree Miller Allegan County Fair Allegan, MI (2004)

Martha Leverock Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair Jacksonville, FL (2011)

Chantelle Miller Paulette’s Food Service Pinckneyville, IL (2009)

Laurie Novak LoLo’s / Skold Concessions Lincoln, NE (2010)

Alan Putter Amusement Management International Louisville, TX (2015)

James O’Brien Topsfield Fair Topsfield, MA (1995)

Barbara Quaid, CEO Ventura County Fair Ventura, CA (1993)

Mick Orosz Hoover Concession Salem, OH (2009)

Lynette Rawlings Rawlings Concessions Atwater, CA (2000)

Jim Pardini Pardini’s Fair Ventures, L.P. Fresno, CA (2010)

Brad Ribar, CCE Loret Foods White Bear Township, MN (1994)

Jerry Phillips Action Food Peoria, AZ (2011)

Tony Rickard Western Carolina State Fair Foundation, Inc. Aiken, SC (2008)

Dennis Lilly Triple ‘L’ Concession Cool Ridge, WV (1997) Allen Lindsey Lindsey Concessions Troy, MI (2006) Schuyler MacPherson Ten Pound Buns / SDM Concessions, LLC Long Beach, CA (2011) Sherrie L Martin Marshall County Blueberry Festival Plymouth, IN (2009) Gary McBrien Crown & Associates, Inc. Claremore, OK (2007) Shawn McKinney McKinney Food Services Hughes Springs, TX (1995) Ron McKinney McKinney Food Services Hughes Springs, TX (2003) Helen McPeak Wilson County Fair Lebanon, TN (1999) John Meigs Meigs Concessions Homosassa, FL (1993) Kathleen Meigs Meigs Concessions Homosassa, FL (2003)

Leslie Miller Paulette’s Food Service Pinckneyville, IL (2015) Rhonda Miller-Galen The Pretzel Wagon Constantine, MI (2007) Don Morgan Morgan Family Enterprise, LLC Arcadia, IN (2005) Phil Mostaccio Completely Nuts, Inc. Arlington Heights, IL (2011) Wayne Moyer Uncle John’s Pride, LLC Tampa, FL (2015) Gerald Murphy Spectacular Attractions, Inc. Tulsa, OK (1995)

Marlene PiersonJolliffe, CFE State Fair of Virginia Doswell, VA (1993) Roger M. Pinard J & J Concessions Lakeville, MA (2014) Richard Pishnoff Richie’s Place to Eat Fort Myers, FL (1998)

Mickey Neck Ormic Concessions Brownsville, TX (1998)

Fred Pittroff Giant Ride, Inc. Balboa, CA (1995)

Ronald Netterfield Netterfields Popcorn & Lemonade, Inc. Land O’Lakes, FL (1994)

Debra Poeppelman Poeppelman Concessions, Inc. Wapakoneta, OH (1996)

Mike Newman Ryann’s Happy Day Pony Ride Glenn, CA (2015)

Audrey Poole Fare Foods DuQuoin, IL (2007)

Mark Nichols Uncle Buck’s Concessions Central Point, OR (2004) Ronald Netterfield Netterfields Popcorn & Lemonade, Inc. Land O’Lakes, FL (1994)

Ron Porter Fare Foods DuQuoin, IL (1994) Amy Powers Sweet and Salty Concessions, LLC Wilmington, NC (1999)

Sharon Rismiller Rismiller Concessions, LLC Arcanum, OH (1997) Allen Rismiller Allen Rismiller Concessions Arcanum, OH (2008) Craig Rismiller Rismiller Concessions, LLC Arcanum, OH (2008) Sandy Rock Rock Concessions Gas City, IN (1999) Mike Rutana Rutana Concessions New Springfield, OH (2003) Kris Ryan K & R Concessions Harrington, DE (2014) Steve Sazama Saz’s Hospitality Group Milwaukee, WI (1997)

►► “Renewals” concluded on page 13 August 2016 NICA News

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Thoughts from a This month’s Statement of Communications & Management Philosophy is from NICA’s Past President Jack Woods, CCE, Woods Family Concessions:

Jack Woods, CCE “I believe that everything we do in business is a form of communication with the general public and Event Management.

You only get one chance to make a first impression. That is why I try to see that every truck and trailer is well painted, clean, and as quiet as possible when we roll into town. That’s when the people in town form their opinion of your operation.

Event Management form their opinion while you and your employees are settting up. Set up day is as important as opening day. Are the employees clean, fully dressed, and quiet?

Management must see everything being cleaned and erected in a professional manner.

On opening day and throughout the event, my employees and Jack Woods, CCE myself will be in uniformed shirts, hats, and aprons, serving only Woods Family Concessions quality products at a fair price. We must strive to be pleasant and helpful to even the most difficult customers.

CCE Earned in 2000 It is also our policy to give back to the events we play by helping out with Junior Fair projects and Fairground improvements. We hope that through our efforts to make a good impression on Fairgoers and Management that we will have a long and prosperous relationship with both.” ▲ 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. To qualify, the applicant must have a minimum of seven years as a full-time chief operating manager of an independent concession business. The applicant must also be a current member of NICA, at least one State Association, and one of the following associations: IAFE, IFEA, or the WFA. Applications are due

by October 1, 2016. Visit the CCE website for more details and requirements: goo.gl/H3VKUf ▲

“Member’s Voice” continued from page 9 ►► food and smile!”

Tom Ferguson, Concessions, LTD from Sharon, MA, with said ”I am not involved enough.” The Concessionaire business creates many time restraints, but he feels that he needs to be more involved than he is. He makes use of the CocaCola and insurance benefits, but also admitted that he did not know of many of the others. He enjoys reading the NICA News in paper form and likes that it covers both personal and business 12

August 2016 NICA News

subjects. Tom feels that it covers ”pretty much everything we need to know.” He feels that the Concessionaires and Event Management definitely need to work together and research the topic of ”security for all.” He also feels that as we go forward, we definitely need more input from Concessionaires.

The NICA Office plans to continue these calls to our Renewing Members throughout 2016 and beyond regarding your membership, use of benefits, and more. If you hear from us, let us know what’s on your mind! If we haven’t called yet, we’ll be in touch soon. ▲

“Renewals” continued from page 11 ►► Sandra Schmidt TJ Schmidt Concessions Standish, MI (2001)

Edgar Sivori, III Kentuckiana Specialty Caterers Sheperdsville, KY (1994)

Kris Ryan K & R Concessions Harrington, DE (2014)

Norma Jean Sivori Sivori Catering, Inc. Louisville, KY (1998)

Rosemary Scirrotto Scirrotto’s Cinnamon City Cape Coral, FL (2008)

Renate Skinner Skinner’s Amusements Harvard, IL (1998)

Josh Seivers Three Rivers Concessions, LLC Grove City, PA (2008) Susan Sharp-Farias Big Bubba’s Bad BBQ Paso Robles, CA (2004) Mary Shepherd S & S Concessions Brownsburg, IN (2015) Bruce Short Short’s Hardware Archbold, OH (2007) Ellen Sietmann, CFE Du Page County Fair Association Wheaton, IL (1997) Edgar Sivori, II Sivori Catering, Inc. Louisville, KY (1993)

Gary Slater Iowa State Fair Des Moines, IA (1993) Larry Smith Gold Concessions Riverview, FL (1995) Celia Smith Family A Fair, Inc. Hemet, CA (2008) Dale Smith, CCE Family A Fair, Inc. Hemet, CA (2008) David Sparks, CFE Dixie Classic Fair Winston-Salem, NC (1997) Jay Spicer Martin County Fair Association Stuart, FL (2003) St. Joseph County 4-H Fair South Bend, IN (1995)

Randy Stephenson Alabama National Fair Montgomery, AL (1994) Greg G. Stewart, CFE Central Washington State Fair Yakima, WA (2006) R. Josh Stremmel Top Notch Wichita, KS (2012) David Strum Pretzel Factory Aurora, CO (2002) Pat Sutton Funnel Cake Express, Inc. Orland, CA (2009) Martin Svrcek Montgomery County Agricultural Fair Gaithersburg, MD (2010) Michael Tanner Heidi Jo’s Jerky Derry, NH (2005) Derek Tipsword Hoelting Food Service, Inc. Decatur, IL (2004) John Uhl Century Industries, LLC Sellersburg, IN (1993)

Jessica Vanderschee Norfolk County Fair & Horse Show Simcoe, ON (2011) Eric Wade Wade’s Pan Pizza, LLC South Bend, IN (2004) Robert Walsh Bellwinart dba Baskin Robbins Muncie, IN (2008) Matt Wardlow Dick Wardlow Insurance Brokers Moorpark, CA (1998) Vanessa Warren Dawghouse Concessions Urbandale, IA (2015) Dione Wilkins Dippin’ Dots, Franchising, LLC Paducah, KY (2003) Fred Willis Willis Enterprises Tulsa, OK (2013) Ron Withers Withers Concessions Macy, IN (2010) Mitch Zinder Victor Products Co. Richmond, VA (1998)

Monica Urick Urick Concessions, LLC Carmel, IN (2001)

Thank you to all 184 of our Renewing Members for your continued support of NICA! “Together We Can!” Is your NICA membership renewal due soon? To find out, you can call the NICA Office at (813) 438-8926, email us at nica@nicainc.org, or check your account balance online anytime at www.nicainc.org.

“Everyone is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will spend its whole life believing it is stupid.” – Albert Einstein

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Ask the Nominees

August is here, which means that it is at the peak of the election season for NICA’s Board of Directors. This year there are six nominees for next year’s Board: Don Delahoyde, CCE, Five Star Catering, Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, The Original Australian Battered Potatoes, LLC, Richie George, George’s Fun Foods, Kevin McGrath, CCE, The Best Around, LLC, Mike Kinnear, Dawghouse Concessions, and Mike Pence, CCE, Pence’s Concessions. We asked them each a few questions about challenges facing Concessionaires, their solutions to these challenges, and NICA’s future. Their responses are below:

Don Delahoyde, CCE Five Star Catering

What is the single most important challenge facing Concessionaires today?

“I think there are several items that are very important, I think the biggest obstacle is staffing. Finding good people that can do the job, keeping them, and being able to pay what the government thinks we should, rather it be H-2B labor or minimum wage. The minimum wage in California is going to $15 per hour; that means that all employees will expect raises at the same level. This does not just affect Concessionaires but also the Fairs who hire hundreds of minimum wage workers whose cost will go up 50% or more. Causing the gate prices, parking, and food prices to increase. How high can we go on prices? When will the public not be able to afford the fair?”

As a Board Member, how would you help overcome this challenge?

“I feel that with NICA working together with our representatives in Congress can help ease the burden of hiring H-2B workers. We need to keep them aware of our business situation, how much tax revenue we create and pay in their districts, and the adverse effects the loss of the H-2B program would create.

I would like to see members sharing ideas and solutions for finding help. We have been working with a college sports team with sponsorship. In return, we have been able to hire many of the athletes during the summer.”

Where do you see NICA in five years?

“In the next five years I can see great growth and benefits for NICA. I believe NICA needs to continue to grow the membership, continue to form strong regional councils like NICA West, and continue to pursue strong buying groups, either regionally or nationally. As a group, we are a giant in the food business; as individual companies, we have much less buying power.”

What would you plan to help NICA get there?

“As an organization, I think it is very important that we have open lines of communication with Fairs; they need to know our problems and concerns, as well as possible solutions. We need to understand their operations and what we might do to help them. Most of us spend more time at Fairs in a year than Fair staff will in their career. We see things, have experience, etc. that Fairs need to use us a resource. Neither of us can assume things will float along as they always have. The world, our Fairs, and businesses are constantly changing and we have to work hard to keep it viable for all concerned.

I believe we have to do this as a group that will benefit all. We cannot be short sighted or concerned about only ourselves. This would be a goal I will like to reach if elected to the Board, as well as helping create regional councils and pursuing strong programs for buying, not only to increase all Concessionaires bottom line, but to continue to fund NICA and its growth.”

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August 2016 NICA News

Carmel Dyer-Pittroff

The Original Australian Battered Potatoes What is the single most important challenge facing Concessionaires today?

“Labor is the most challenging for me. With time, expense and stress involved in the H-2B program, the new minimum wage and the continual training and compliance. As a small business owner this is my biggest challenge. Answering the above question inspired me to ask other NICA members their thoughts and what their challenges were and it surprised me how different we all felt. Their responses included ‘living on the road,’ ‘housing and feeding employees,’ and ‘rising costs.’”

As a Board Member, how would you help overcome this challenge?

“The challenges will always be there; overcoming them is learning how to adapt with this everchanging industry and the times we live in.”

Where do you see NICA in five years?

“With new ideas from members and directors and continued extra benefits I see NICA in five years doubling their membership. ‘Together We Can!’”

What would you plan to help NICA get there?

“Encouraging Concessionaires, Commercial Exhibitors, and Ride Operators to join NICA. We need numbers to grow and as Directors we should do this on a personal level. We all know so many people and have many contacts.”

Richard George

George’s Fun Foods What is the single most important challenge facing Concessionaires today?

“There are many challenges in our industry today. Having strong ties to the Amusement Industry, I understand first hand the increasing difficulties Concessionaires face regarding staffing issues.”

As a Board Member, how would you help overcome this challenge?

“Being a NICA Board Member, I would work to unite all factions of our industry to join together with a common goal and focus. Through research and education we can help our lobbyist fight a better fight as well as talk to our local Congress to find ways to open up restrictions on our H-2B programs.”

Where do you see NICA in five years?

“NICA is a strong vessel in our industry. I see NICA working hand in hand with all of our sister organizations to continue communication with Committees and Concessionaires. Our strength is our unity.”

What would you plan to help NICA get there?

“First, I would listen to our members and Fair Boards to see what changes are needed in the industry.

Working with other organizations to communicate the needed, wanted, and necessary changes and

►► “Ask the Nominees” continued on page 18 August 2016 NICA News

17

“Ask the Nominees” continued from page 17 ►► improvement to help enhance the longevity of our business. Communication is the key for a better tomorrow.”

Mike Kinnear

Dawghouse Concessions What is the single most important challenge facing Concessionaires today?

“Concessionaires, as business owners, face many challenges: cost of operations, government overreach, changing health and DOT regulations, and the labor pool, to name a few. Each owner has a unique set of situations that he or she has to navigate in order to be successful. Thinking as a Director, however, I think the most important challenge we collectively face is how do we keep our organization and industry moving in a positive direction. NICA’s mission statement clearly defines what we need to do the achieve these goals: strengthen relationships. Although the statement does not specifically say it, one of the relationships important to the continued success of NICA is the relationship NICA has within its own membership. NICA, throughout its existence, has made tremendous progress in the four areas defined in the mission statement: communication, benefits, leadership, and solutions. The challenge is to keep each of the four pillars strong and viable by providing best of class information, savings, direction, and ideas to help our members prosper.”

As a Board Member, how would you help overcome this challenge?

“We all have a stake in this industry. But most of us are too busy earning a living to contribute significantly to NICA. It takes a lot of time and effort being a director and I applaud all the NICA Directors through the years that have unselfishly taken time away from their families and businesses to advance our organization. As you may know, I recently retired from my non-concessioning ‘day job’ and am offering to dedicate myself to advancing our industry and organization that have given so much to me and my family. How do I plan to do this? By strengthening relationships. Relationships with Fairs, with Vendors, and with members. By listening to our Fair partners and providing services and products to add value to their event. By working with our Suppliers to make sure we are delivering to the customer the freshest, safest, and most cost effective products possible. And most importantly, working with our own members to understand challenges and provide solutions to help make all members successful.”

Where do you see NICA in five years?

“I see a lot of grey hair in the concession family. I am concerned that in five years, without concerted effort and understanding, there will be more grey hair. We all know only too well this is not an industry for the faint-hearted. Entry into this business is not cheap. Years ago, we could slap four walls together, put in a grill, hang a sign, and be in business. It’s not so easy anymore. Fairs and Festivals are looking for state of the art, modern (expensive) stands and equipment. Health regulations, state and local requirements, rising labor costs, are just a few of the variables that also add to the cost of doing business. All of these factors make it challenging to new and/or young concessionaires to be successful. We must find ways to make this industry attractive and profitable for the next generation.

I see NICA leading this effort. I see NICA as a go-to resource for new (and existing) businesses to help them succeed. Collectively, NICA members have advanced the industry with novel ideas and products, made every mistake possible, and created lasting relationships with other Concessionaires, Vendors, and event partners. I see NICA using this collective knowledge to help our industry continue to prosper by mentoring new members and providing guidance so they hopefully can avoid mistakes made in the 18

August 2016 NICA News

past and make good business decisions based on the experience of their predecessors.”

What would you plan to help NICA get there?

“As a Director, I plan to work hard to help implement and enhance educational materials, establish a mentoring program, and provide timely and frequent information concerning new developments in the industry. I plan to be involved in encouraging younger generations to establish concession businesses or assume leadership of existing ones by providing roadmaps to success. I will commit to being available to any member looking for assistance in getting answers to questions, resolving issues and advancing their businesses. I certainly don’t pretend to know all of these things, but will work diligently to help in any way possible. Hopefully, my level of involvement will help determine YOUR level of reward.”

Kevin McGrath, CCE The Best Around

What is the single most important challenge facing Concessionaires today?

“A shriveling bottom line. Similar to many small businesses in today’s environment, there are lots of reasons it is harder to keep your money. Evaluating your cost of operations helps to understand why. Over the last 20 years, product, equipment costs, rents, DOT and employee regulations have all increased. In an effort to keep our industry affordable as an entertainment venue for families means we have to be very careful in managing our funds. Growing regulation not only adds cost, but more time, to get our job done. Looking for ways to manage both is a challenge for Concessionaires, just like every other small business.”

As a Board Member, how would you help overcome this challenge?

“Communication. Fairs are experiencing some of the same financial issues as Concessionaires. I think it is important to keep communication open between Fairs and Concessionaires. Keeping costs to the customer down and increasing attendance at Fairs will prove a major advantage to everyone involved in the industry. As the attendance grows, it will help to out gross our increasing expenses. This will be a much better answer than being forced to inflate prices to conquer the problem. That will only work against the goal of growing the event. Growing the attendance is a solution that solves financial issues for both the concessionaire and the event.”

Where do you see NICA in five years?

“I see NICA with more members involved in the industry. NICA members have been represented in some state associations and nationally (IAFE and WFA). I would like to see that expanded—getting more members involved. I hope to see NICA have an increase in membership of 20% in five years and able to offer increasing benefits and representation.”

What would you plan to help NICA get there?

“First, communicating with our members. It is important for members to have input. I have the time and energy to talk with any member at anytime. NICA needs to listen to their concerns and suggestions.

Second, communicating with the industry. I hope to get more members involved in more association meetings. I think Communication is the key. It needs to be based on honesty, integrity and facts to promote a genuine understanding of a problem. If you aren’t aware of the truth of a situation, it’s difficult to arrive at an appropriate solution. Often people only discuss what they think you want to hear.

The more difficult problems are harder to talk about. Because of that, real issues are not addressed, or

►► “Ask the Nominees” concluded on page 20 August 2016 NICA News

19

“Ask the Nominees” continued from page 19 ►► they have a hidden agenda undermining honest discussion. Communication does not have to be brutal to be effective, but sometimes it may be uncomfortable. Through open honest communication, I feel, the whole industry will thrive.”

Mike Pence, CCE

Pence’s Concessions What is the single most important challenge facing Concessionaires today?

“Government and labor regulations. Companies everywhere are having difficulty finding reliable employees. Work Visa programs are costly with many regulations!”

As a Board Member, how would you help overcome this challenge?

“We might consider looking for those that are training in the culinary arts or similar industries. The experience could be very beneficial to both parties involved.”

Where do you see NICA in five years?

“With 20% more members!”

What would you plan to help NICA get there?

“I would involve the membership. NICA will sell itself if there is a perceived value by its members!” ▲

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August 2016 NICA News

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On Tuesday, June 7, The Council has established several goals for 2016, the first meeting of their first year. The first will be to launch their first the newly formed Northeast social event early this Fall. Many of our members Council was held. Members participate in The Big E and the Council has include Kelly Grout, Vinnie decided to host a gathering during Fair setup on Nelson, Russ Harrison, CCE, Tuesday, September 13, 2016. Please save the and Coordinator Jessica date! More details will come, but since The Big E is Castro (pictured at left). celebrating its Centennial this September, we plan Jessica can be reached at to support their milestone by creating an event castj1881@hotmail.com if themed around their 100th Anniversary. you have questions about Jessica will also be attending the Delaware the Northeast Council.

State Fair this summer to meet more of our Jessica has nine years of Fair experience as members and visit with Fair Management— a Concessions Coordinator for The Big E in West keep an eye out! Finally, we will also be active Springfield, Massachusetts, contracting and at industry events this season, and anticipating recruiting Food Concessionaires to operate at the participation in at least one of the State Fair 17-day Fair held each September. While at The Associations’ annual meetings: either New York, Big E, Jessica was a part of establishing the first Connecticut, or Massachusetts. This participation Communications Committee on the fairgrounds, will allow us to foster stronger relationships with building a new, financially successful souvenir cup Fair Management as well as industry experts, and program, improving move-in traffic patterns, and drive participation from our own members moving to an Open Market, a competitive system to increase the success of these important for food purveyors. Jessica left the Fair in 2013 to meetings. pursue a career in Human Resources at Baystate In addition to our social gathering, we will also Health, the largest healthcare system in Western be launching our first fundraising effort in July.

Massachusetts, where she is currently managing The Council is currently pulling together ideas to Recruitment Marketing and Advertising systemfinancially support the organization. If you have wide. Jessica is thrilled with the opportunity to any suggestions, please let us know! ▲

“Association Announcements” continued from page 8 ►►

Introducing the Business Membership Category In the last 23 years of this organization, NICA has strived to keep consistency regarding its membership categories. It does not happen often, but NICA has added a new category for your NICA Membership. Do you have four or more members that you are already paying dues for annually? If so, this opportunity is perfect for you! The Business Membership combines a regular member, additional member, and three employee members into one membership for $300, which is $50 off of what it would normally cost—this means one of these memberships comes at no cost to you. This can simplify your experience with NICA while retaining your access to our benefits and other important features of your membership. Check out page 31, call (813) 438-8926, or email nica@nicainc.org for more details on how to apply. ▲ August 2016 NICA News

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West Council Celebrates

10th Anniversary with NICA Events Rey O’Day, West Council Executive Manager

A Good Day of Golf The 10th Annual NICA West Invitational held during the San Diego County Fair on June 20, 2016 was the first event of a season of events that celebrates the 10th Anniversary of NICA West.

NICA members and their friends played on the June Solstice, which is our longest day of sunlight, and the first to have a full moon (Strawberry Moon) since 1967. All worth celebrating!

Rey O’Day and Tommie Fomby welcoming all to the 10th Annual Golf Tournament

Jennifer Giordano, official photographer, poses with her Hole sponsorship sign

Gary Barham, Hot Dog On a Stick, Nate Janousek, Fun Biz Concessions, Ashley Murray, M & M Concessions, and Dale Smith, CCE, Family A Fair, were the committee that brought this event together. Tommie Fomby, retired OC Concession Manager, Cie Smith, Family A Fair, Jennifer Giordano, C & C Concessions, and Rey O’Day, Interim Executive Manager, registered, organized, and photographed the event. Sysco, US Foods, San Diego County Fair, M & M Marketing, Fairplex, Tommie Fomby, and Good Source Solutions provided items for the goodie bags and postgame Opportunity Drawing.

The parade of golfers celebrating 10 great years!

It was a perfect day at the Lomas Santa Fe Country Club. Ashley Murray ran the first event which was the Putting Contest. It included a “Putt Off” between Austen Sanders, B & J Concessions, and Bob Riggs, CloudFair. Bob won! Next, the foursomes headed out to play. Out there Katie Sanders, B & J Concessions, hit the longest drive at hole #2 and John Giordano, C & C Concessions, hit the closest to the pin at 11’4” at hole #17. Everyone tried to win the $10,000 for hitting a hole-in-one at hole #14, but darn, no one did. That was confirmed

by Trent Lieuallen whose time as “hole watcher” was donated by Family A Fair. A BIG shout out to Hot Dog On a Stick for sponsoring this contest prize for the last 10 years.

Dinner, drawing winning tickets, and presenting awards followed the 18 holes. The two sought after prizes were the 32” TV and the 2017 Red Lot Parking Pass. The 2nd place Callaway (net) scoring team was Mark Neagles, Jack McGinley, Gil Hines, and Bob Rump. The 1st place Callaway scoring team was Dominic Palmieri, Enzo Palmieri, Gino Palmieri, Zack Enright, and Bryan Creason. The

The Good Source Solutions Team won 2nd Net: Mark Neagles, Jack McGinley, Gil Hines, and Bob Rump Austen Sanders and Bob Riggs hold a “Putt Off”

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August 2016 NICA News

Bob lands it in the hole and wins!

The Odyssey Foods Team won 1st Net: Zach Enright, Enzo Palmieri, Bryan Creason, Gino Palmieri, and Dominic Palmieri

2nd place Gross scoring team was Gary Barham, Courtney Barham, Bob Riggs, and Rob Diaz. And

finally, the 1st place Gross scoring team was Nate Janousek, Justin Murray, Willie Madaus, Jessup Crutchfield, and Patrick Sheridan. Each player on the 1st place teams won $100 and $75 on the 2nd place teams. We are proud that many of our teams were packed with family generations.

With a view of the ocean all day, the setting The Hot Dog on a Stick The Fun Biz Team won 1st sun on the longest day of the year, and the rising team won 2nd Gross: Bob Gross: Nate Janousek, Jessup of the Full Strawberry Moon, a day of golf was the Riggs, Courtney Barham, Crutchfield, Justin Murray, perfect way to spend a day off. Stay calm and play Gary Barham and Rob Willie Madaus, and Patrick Diaz with Rey O’Day Sheridan golf! ▲

Root, Root, Root for the Home Team In Northern California at the Alameda County Fair, Don Delahoyde, CCE, Five Star Catering, was organizing a NICA family and friends trip to the San Francisco Giants and Oakland A’s game at the ATT Park in San Francisco for Monday, June 27th.

Folks gathered at the RV Park to board the “Party Bus” bound for the stadium. During the ride, snacks and beverages were shared, games were played, and the official NICA West koozie was unveiled with its message: “Cheers for 10 Years!”

The stadium had a plethora of food choices in attractively appointed stands. We found our nose

bleed seats and sat back to enjoy the beautiful view of the bay, the groans and cheers of the game, and the fellowship of good friends. The Oakland A’s beat the Giants 8-3 and the 3 points were all made in the last two innings. On the ride home, Susan Watkins observed, “We sure need a lot more outside fun like that to keep our jobs more enjoyable. I know how much work it is to plan all the activities you do and just want to let you know your efforts are appreciated.” I think we all agree. ▲

A Full House It wasn’t enough that NICA hosted one event on Monday, June 27th; we really hosted two!

Dominic Palmieri, Teri Crutchfield, Steve Marcus, Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, Jennifer Giordano, and others hosted the first NICA/San Diego County Fair Social Poker Tournament. The 50 member strong crowd came out in grand fashion for the magical setting of the Top of the Grandstand at the famous Del Mar Racetrack where the surf meets the turf.

Special thanks to the table and prize sponsor; tables were sponsored by Terri Crutchfield, Terri’s Berries, Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, Original Australian Battered Potatoes, Courtney Barham, Hot Dog on A Stick, Scott and Chris Swanson, Icee, Steve Marcus, Steve’s Concessions, RCS Carnival Midway, and GoCashless Corporation.

Gathering around the championship table… can you feel the suspense?

Fred Pittroff, Giant Slide (and proud grandfather of NICA $3,000 Scholarship winner Isabella Barona), Paul Nemeth, Paul’s Concessions and new NICA member, and Steve and Pat Vandervorst, Pat’s Concessions, all sponsored the prizes.

Five full tables of bluffers, actors, criers, and liars all started the tourney, but when all was said

►► “West Council” continued on page 28 August 2016 NICA News

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Last words spoken came from Mike Howell who said, “Dominic, You are going to do this again next year aren’t you?” And to the surprise and done, four were victorious for titles of 1st thru of everyone in the room, Dominic said, “YES, as long as all of you will Co-Chair the event.” So be 4th place. The energy in the air was electric as many onlookers watched the Championship table prepared for a bigger field next year with an added prize: best in class prize for Best Poker Costume. with the last nine players. One by one they were Yes, the first annual Del Mar Poker Tournament eliminated and it’s always fun to watch the huge will most likely be the first of many. stacks of chips get pushed into the center of the Six new members signed up at these three table with the instructions of “ALL IN!” 4th place events and many fundraising dollars were earned went to Bryan Gabbard, 3rd place went to Paul for NICA programs. Because the San Diego Nemeth, 2nd place went to Nikko Gaddi, and 1st Fair has been a generous host of our events Place went to Ann Marie Perry who is also a new for these past ten years NICA and its members NICA member. Cheers to them!

After the winners were known, more fun came are honored to graciously contribute to the Don when all the tons of raffle prizes were passed out. Diego Scholarship Fund. “It’s all about the social Many were donated and others bought by NICA to aspect of what we do that makes this a labor of love,” said Dominic Palmieri, NICA 1st Vice insure everyone had a chance to win something.

President. “Not only do we raise money for NICA, As players were eliminated, they received but our members graciously help raise money to raffle tickets. The longer they played, the more support the work of our industry partners, all while tickets they received. All of which went into San enjoying each other’s company.”

Diego County Fair souvenir cups in front of the Watch for other NICA Rallies and fundraising corresponding raffle prize. Summed up by Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, “We ate, drank, cut up jackpots (pun events throughout the country and throughout the season. “Together We Can” have a great time! ▲ intended), and had a blast.”

“West Council” continued from page 25 ►►

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Color Cover, Tab & Ad Sizes

q Full Page Cover (Bleed)..... 6”w x 9”h* q Full Page Tab (Bleed)....5.25”w x 9”h* q Full Page Tab..............4.75”w x 8.5”h* q Half Page Tab ..........4.75”w x 4.25”h* Black & White Ad Sizes

q Full Page...................... 4.25”w x 7.5”h q Half Page (H)............. 4.25”w x 3.75”h q Half Page (V)............. 2.125”w x 7.5”h q Quarter Page (H)............ 4.25”w x 2”h q Quarter Page (V)..... 2.125”w x 3.75”h q Eighth Page (H).............. 4.25”w x 1”h q Eighth Page (V)........... 2.125” w x 2”h Please contact the NICA Office for more size information.

Premium Positions

* Subject to availability. If interested, contact us at (813) 438-8926 or graphics@nicainc.org

Ad Artwork Specifications • 300 DPI, CMYK Color, Flattened • Full page ads that fit the whole page must contain a 0.25” bleed.

• Formats accepted: .pdf, .png, .jpg, • .jpeg, .tif, .tiff, .psd, .ai, .svg, .eps • Digital Ad Artwork may be emailed directly to graphics@nicainc.org or uploaded to our DropBox account.

Insertion Order & Ad Artwork Deadline September 1, 2016 For more information, please contact the NICA Office at (813) 438-8926 or email us at graphics@nicainc.org

Signature

Date

NICA, Inc. • 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 • Phone: (813) 438-8926 • Fax: (813) 438-8928 • www.nicainc.org

2016 Membership Contest Leaderboard* General Membership Vinnie Valentino....................................................................3 Etta Pence..............................................................................2 Mitch Zinder..........................................................................2 Jon Baker...............................................................................1 Jody Conklin..........................................................................1 Carmel Dyer-Pittroff..............................................................1 Jerome Hertel........................................................................1 Robert Hutchins....................................................................1 Larry McConnell, CCE............................................................1 Faith McGee...........................................................................1 Kevin McGrath, CCE..............................................................1 Janie Miller............................................................................1 Rhonda Miller........................................................................1 Robert Santorelli...................................................................1 Jack Sturgeon.......................................................................1 Jack Woods, II.......................................................................1 Charles Zell, CCE...................................................................1 Stephanie Janousek.............................................................1 Carol Sanders........................................................................1 Craig Sawyer.........................................................................1 Terri Shell...............................................................................1 Jim Sinclair............................................................................1

Northeast & West Councils Russ Harrison, CCE...............................................................3 Nate Janousek......................................................................2 Ashley Murray.......................................................................2 Kim Barr.................................................................................1 Dale Smith.............................................................................1 Lisa Thompson-Baker..........................................................1 Jay Wells................................................................................1

Board of Directors Kathy Ross............................................................................8 Dan Lusenhop.......................................................................5 Dominic Palmieri...................................................................4 Sandy Class...........................................................................1 Jennifer Giordano..................................................................1 Daryl Whicheloe, CCE............................................................1

Administration Office....................................................................................21

*See the back cover for rules and prizes

Advertise Your Business in by calling (813) 438-8926 or emailing communications@nicainc.org. Contact us today to reserve your spot!

August 2016 NICA News

33

2016 Events Calendar

Representing NICA & Its Industry Partners August

21-22: Oregon Fairs Association Convention • Albany, OR

15: Directory updates going out to members

26-28: Washington State Fairs Association Annual Convention • Vancouver, WA

September 5: Labor Day (Office Closed) 30: Board of Directors election ballots due in the office

October 1: CCE Applications Due in the office 10: Directory Updates due in the office

34

August 2016 NICA News

November 9-12: Rocky Mountain Association of Fairs Annual Convention • Spokane, WA 14-18: IAAPA Attractions Expo 2016 • Orlando, FL 16-18: CAFE Annual Convention • Fredericton, NB 14-18: Dakota Fairs Annual Convention • Minot, ND 24: Thanksgiving (Office Closed)

11/27-12/1: 126th Annual IAFE Convention and Trade Show featuring NICA Board of Directors Meeting, Industry Appreciation Reception, and more!

• Las Vegas, NV

December 9-11: Association of Iowa Fairs Annual Convention • Des Moines, IA 25: Christmas Day (Office Closed) Although these dates are based on sources believed to be reliable and true, they are subject to changes due to cancellation, rescheduling, or other reasons throughout the year. Additional or revised dates may be announced in future issues of NICA News or at www.nicainc.org under our calendar section. Have a great month of August!

National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc. 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 Phone: 813-438-8926 • Fax: (813)438-8928 Email: nica@nicainc.org • Website: www.nicainc.org

For Office Use Only

Date: #:

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, detailed, and complete as possible. Information provided below will be used for your entry in the annual NICA Membership Directory and as keywords to search for your business on the NICA website.

Annual Membership Fees Independent Concession Membership

Associate Membership

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

q q q q q

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

Voting:

Non-Voting:

q Employee................................................................................$ 5 0 q Retired....................................................................................$50 Concession Business / Group Membership

Includes five memberships in one: one Independent Concessionaire, one Additional Member, and three Employee Members ($350 value).

q Concession Business / Group..........................................$300 Additional Member : _________________________________________ Employee Member 1: ________________________________________ Employee Member 2: ________________________________________ Employee Member 3: ________________________________________ Check a category below and provide a detailed description of your company’s services below:

q q q

Commercial Exhibitors / Retail Attractions / Entertainment Services

q q

Fair / Festival over 75,000 attendance.......................... $125 Fair / Festival under 75,000 attendance...........................$75 Manufacturer / Distributor / Supplier............................ $125 Carnival / Circus Operator................................................ $125 Special Services................................................................ $125

Business Description

Provide a detailed description of your business, products, and/or services below:

________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________

Food Games

Mail Check or Money Order to NICA’s office at 1043 E. Brandon Blvd. Brandon, FL 33511 q Visa q Mastercard q American Express q Discover

Concessionaire General Routing Information

List all states / provinces where you conduct your concession business:

_____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ Fairs and Festivals

Credit Card #: Security Code:

Expiration Date:

TOTAL:

List three Fairs or Festivals worked in the past year :

1. __________________________________________________________ 2. __________________________________________________________ 3. __________________________________________________________ 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.

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.

Applicant’s signature

Date

Beneficiary ________________________________________ Phone ___________________

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

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