December 2022 NICA News

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022. Offers valid for First Data customers only. New merchant account required and is subject to credit approval. Requires merchant acceptance of applicable Terms and Conditions and an active NICA Membership. Qualifying merchants will receive a credit of $250, if they purchase rented equipment, which will be applied as a statement credit. Applicable rebates and credits will be issued to your funding account approximately 60-days after the month in which the rebate requirement has been met. First Data is solely responsible for this offer. Offer subject to change without notice. Offer not valid with any other offer. Offer void

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This Month’s Newest Members

Douglas Bobick

Bobick Concessions

Delano, MN

Timothy Ellis

Ellis Event Services Highland, CA

Jennifer Farrar Bayou Bob’s, LLC Las Vegas, NV

Harley Farrar Bayou Bob’s, LLC Las Vegas, NV

Bob Feldick

Sadies Concessions

Andover, MN

Carol Francis

Western Equipment Finance Devils Lake, ND

Randy Fulk

Korie’s Kloset Seminole, FL

John Gotz

JL United, LLC (DBA Strawberries & Creme) Waseca, MN

Oliver Housen

The Copper Kettle Carlsbad, CA

Jody Hurst

Silver Spur Soda Conroe, TX

Kevin Jankiewicz

Event Catering Inc. Solvay, NY

Talbot Leeke Shamrock Foods Eastvale, CA

Ryan Legaux

Legaux Holdings LLC

Los Angeles, CA

Brad Magg Side Door Concessions, LLC Prairie City, IA

Lee Marion

Marsalees Thai Food LLC Fair Grove, MO

Carole Nickelson Barona Enterprises Eagan, MN

Brooks Reynolds JR’s Southpork Ranch Des Moines, IA

Dallas Simonette Bayou Bob’s, LLC Las Vegas, NV

Houston Simonette

Bayou Bob’s, LLC

Las Vegas, NV

Jay Velez

CHB Entertainment LLC Coolidge, AZ

Gus Whicheloe

West Coast Funnel Cakes Cave Junction, OR

Joyce Wright

Oliver Family Concessions Scio, OR

Maria Zaffuto

Sweet Adventure Concessions Sykesville, PA

This Month’s Member Renewals

Michelle Allen

H&M Funnel Cake Express

Paradise, CA (2019)

Hyrum Allen

H&M Funnel Cake Express Paradise, CA (2019)

Andrew Andrescavage Lakeland Marketing St Louis, MO (2010)

Steven A. Avila

Sir Sir Licorice Ropes Upland, CA (2021)

Alan Barr

Pacific Crest Concessions Caldwell, ID (2012)

Kim Barr, CCE

Pacific Crest Concessions Caldwell, ID (2012)

Bryan Blair

York State Fair York, PA (2019)

Savannah Bradbury

Concession Management Services Inc. Maricopa, AZ (2021)

Brian Bradbury

Extreme Event Fair Foods Maricopa, AZ (2021)

Jacqueline Bradbury, CCE Sweet Cheeks, LLC Maricopa, AZ (2013)

Scott Brandt

Butcher Boys / F&W Concessions Germantown, NY (2021)

Thomas Burns

Grand Rapids Popcorn Co. Comstock Park, MI (2007)

Eric Campbell

E.N. Campbell’s Concessions, Inc.

West Des Moines, IA (2000)

Kevin Coe

Patty Wagon Anchorage, AK (2011)

Jodi Dirksen

Rogue Concessions White City, OR (2018)

John Doolan

Doolan Amusement Co. Stuart, FL (2002)

Irene Dugan Chuckwagon Alta Loma, CA (2007)

Richard George, CCE µ George’s Fun Foods Gibsonton, FL (1993)

Brian Keller µ

Florida State Fair Tampa, FL (1993)

Macey Kenna Dickerson & Kenna Concessions

Lebanon, IN (2017)

Donald Kenna µ Dickerson & Kenna Concessions

Lebanon, IN (1993)

Tony Ketchell

A. W. K. Ent. Inc. Milford, PA (1995)

William (Billy) Level Hog Wild BBQ Ronceverte, WV (2016)

Timothy Lisko

Triple L Concessions Lowellville, OH (2017)

Ryan Long L & S Concessions, Inc. San Dimes, CA (2007)

Vince Martino Santillo’s, Inc. Naples, NY (2010)

Benjamin Merrill Rockin’ Comet Diner Clayton, NC (2019)

►► “Renewals” continued on page 9

Welcome to our 23 New Members! See page 33 for the 2022 NiCA Membership Contest leaderboard

P R eside NT ’s Message P R eside NT ’s Message

Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, President

We have just finished a whirlwind 30 days. First we had our new NiCA Marketplace Convention in Las Vegas and now just finished a great iAFe Convention in Indianapolis.

The NiCA Marketplace was a huge success with lots of Concessionaires, Commercial Exhibitors, Concession and Commercial Fair Staff, and Fair Managers attending. We had a great Trade Show packed full of interesting and relevant Vendors. The two-day convention offered many great Workshops, How To’s, and Roundtables with lots of discussions about the issues we are facing today. From both the Fair side and the Concession and Commercial side, everyone really enjoyed and benefited from the convention. The feedback we received has been very positive and we are looking forward to an even bigger and better event in 2023.

The iAFe Convention was very well attended and also gave us the ability to connect and discuss the issues we are dealing with in the Industry. What I keep learning, especially at the conventions, is that although we all work in the same Industry, we don’t always see things or understand the other entities’ point of view. I had an opportunity to be part of a great session at iAFe involving a threeperson panel of Presidents, with NiCA representing Concessions, OABA representing Carnivals, and iAFe representing Fairs. We were all presented with the exact same questions, and although we all differed slightly with some of our answers, we all agreed that putting the “Fair Guest” first should be our number one priority. The topic of inflation and rising costs of doing business is obviously an important topic of discussion currently and I felt our concerns about overpricing from all sides of our Industry were heard and discussed.

For those unable to attend these events I certainly hope you can next year. In the meantime, I hope our paths will cross somewhere at one of the other Fair Conventions during this busy Convention Season. If you haven’t attended a convention, I highly recommend attending one. They are always productive, educational, and fun. If you don’t get

involved and help discuss and deal with the issues we are facing, you don’t have the right to complain. What I have learned now, more than ever is that the other entities in our Industry want each other’s opinions and knowledge. They understand it is a team that puts on a successful Fair and we are a BIG part of that team.

On behalf of myself and the NiCA Board I would like to recognize Rey O’Day for her vision, planning expertise, and the patience to know what she wanted and what NiCA Marketplace would look like. Thank you for your leadership, Rey. I also want to thank the NiCA team including Linda Frisco, Jesse Willard, Jessica Gottsche, and Kathy Ross, CCE. They did an amazing job at both conventions and serve NiCA and our Industry well. The quality of content they provided at both conventions has really helped open the path for open and honest discussions about our concerns and issues.

Of course, I can’t forget the many Council Members who gave it their all to make the event more successful. Moreover, I want to thank NiCA’s Board of directors who spent a lot of time helping with the planning, execution, and hosting of NiCA Marketplace and other Industry events. I hope each of the directors know you will always have my gratitude for all of your time and energy. We have a great Board that unselfishly serves NiCA and I thank you all! I also want to congratulate Past President Sandy Class, CCE for her appointment to the iAFe Board. She always represents NiCA and our Industry well. Lastly, I would like to thank our six Past Presidents who were in attendance: Sandy Class, CCE, Don Delahoyde, CCE, Thomas Hodson, CCE, Dan Lusenhop, Kathy Ross, CCE, and Ron Smith

As we get ready for the Holiday Season, I want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year. I look forward to seeing many of you at our NiCA Business expo in February.

I will end with the toast I made at NiCA Marketplace’s Closing Session:

“Please raise a glass to NiCA, to its members, the Sister Organizations, and to the Fairs and their Staff members who all came to join us here this week. To all those who believe in the value of communication and transferring of information. We have learned together and shared together following the NICA motto, ‘Together We Can!’

O FFICERS

President: Daryl Whicheloe, CCE

1st Vice President: Vincent Nelson, CCE

2nd Vice President: Kim Barr, CCE

Treasurer: Dan Lusenhop

Secretary: Jacqueline Bradbury, CCE

D IRECTORS

Brandy Arredondo, CCE

Phil Delahoyde

Kelly Grout

Thomas Hodson, CCE Stacey Pittroff-Barona

Jeff Thornberry, CCE Jay Wells, CCE

PAST P RESIDENTS ’

C O u NCIL

Sandy Class, CCE

Don Delahoyde, CCE Kathy Ross, CCE

Dan Lusenhop

Dominic Palmieri, CCE Paulette Keene, CCE

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)

OFFICE STAFF

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

Office & Membership Manager : Linda Frisco nica@nicainc.org

Communications & Marketing Manager • NICA News Editor : Jesse Willard communications@nicainc.org

East Council Coordinator & Social Media Coordinator : Jessica Gottsche jessica@nicainc.org

Midwest Council Coordinator : Dennis Larson, CFE dennis@nicainc.org

Event Planning Coordinator : Kathy Ross, CCE nicamarketplace@nicainc.org

F O u NDATION

President: Audrey Poole

Vice President: Greg Miller, CCE

Treasurer : Jennifer Giordano, CCE

Secretary : Rey O’Day

Trustees: Kim Barr, CCE

Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, CCE Mark Lancaster

Don Kenna

Vincent Nelson, CCE Larry Sivori

EAST C O u NCIL

Bary Bunts, CCE

Ryan Collmer

Ryan Hagy

Thomas Hodson, CCE

Patty Tessari

Michael Zdebiak, Jr.

M IDWEST C O u NCIL

Connie Boesen

Sandy Class, CCE

James McConnell

Richie O’Neil

Matt Ribar Brad Schroder

April Smith

W EST C O u NCIL

Michelle Allen

Brandy Arredondo, CCE

Jodi Dirksen

Irene Dugan

Jan Gary, CCE

Gigi Horowitz

Ryan Long

Kara Moederndorfer, CCE

Ryann Newman Steve Vartanian

Do you have any questions or would like to get involved with NICA? Contact us at (813) 438-8926 or nica@nicainc.org today!

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d i R ec TOR ’s V O ice d i R ec TOR ’ s V O ice

Wells, CCE, Director

Here we are, at the end of our selling season (most of us) with harvest complete, or almost, and equipment cleaned and put back in the barn. Time to rest, enjoy being with family and friends, indulge in those wonderful family feasts during the upcoming Holiday Season,

review this last season, and plan for the next. Let us be thankful that we live in a place that allows us to enjoy this type of freedom and choice.

Reviewing and planning for this, next, and future seasons would not be complete if I didn’t mention that this time of year includes our Convention Season, which is sowing for our future. We visit these conventions to meet and mingle with friends, acquaintances, and other people related somehow, someway to our way of life and how we make our money. We learn new Fair and Event dates and plans for next year, meet new people in charge, and perhaps add a new or additional location at an event you already play or some new event that might fit into your schedule. Speaking of conventions, NiCA just produced, directed, and held its first convention in none other than Las Vegas: NICA Marketplace, where “TOGETHER!” we shared Ideas, Networking, Products, and Services. I just arrived home from attending the event, where I harvested a wealth of information, met some new friends and toured the local Sysco distribution center with 30 other NiCA Members. The NiCA Marketplace hosted many Educational Workshops, “How To” Sessions, and a wonderful Trade Show.

Over 48 hours, I was able to share ideas, successes, and concerns with friends and colleagues; learn how to sign up for member benefits like entegra, Goodyear, Airgas, and many more; take a trip aROUND the TABLEs to discuss increasing use of credit cards and who should pay the fees associated with their use, Fair hours, multi-year contracts, product duplication, tipping, single item vs. 7-11 stands, and exclusive sponsorships. I attended presentations that

made me contemplate how to price and sell my business while trying to follow an exit strategy, learn about the younger generation who want more use of technology to make their purchases, the everchanging field of Commercial Exhibits, affordability (for Us and the Guest); AND visit with over 30 Trade Show Exhibitors serving our Industry. WHeW!!

That was just a small portion of this convention; there was so much MORe! The convention hosted over 250 participants including not only Concessionaires, but Commercial Sales Vendors, Fairs, their Concession Managers and Event Staff, along with the Exhibitors and Representatives from entegra (offering manufacturing rebates and discounts), Fare Foods, Fiserv, langlois (manufacturer of fine batter mixes), luxe retail (beauty supplies), OCC Signs (wraps and signage needs), Waterloo tent and tarp, McCain Foods, JM Smucker, Sysco, and Supplies on the Fly (everything for food facilities except food), Hummel Group (personal, business, and now health insurance needs), and JKJ Workforce (labor contracting)

The NiCA Marketplace was jam-packed and I can’t wait till the 2023 Marketplace where I can again harvest more tips, ideas, solutions and benefits. Better be there next year, I wouldn’t miss it!

What will the new year bring, now that the COVID has quieted down, and the announcement that the COVID-19 Pandemic is over has been made? More of the same—product shortages, supply chain issues, the cost/availability of fuel, less labor, and more inflation? I hope not! More income or better net, less total working hours, bigger per-caps—let’s hope so! For the most part, attendance for the events we play is now close to Pre-Pandemic numbers with income now surpassing it, and a few 2022 events were considered the “best year ever” by attendance and income. Our Industry has done a terrific job in just a short 16 months of getting back to normal or creating a new normal after most of us, Vendors and Events alike, were totally shut down for 18 months.

We hope to see you throughout the year and at other conventions this Winter such as the WFA Convention and NiCA Business expo, along with many State and Regional Association Meetings. Please stop me and let me know what’s on your mind. “Together We Can!” ▲

Jay

Rey O’Day, Executive Director

What a year 2022 has been!! We started it hoping to

inflation and our supply chain challenges, this perk is useful and important. Also, Goodyear has provided the “Tire Finder” location on our website where you can enter the vehicle type or tire size and they help you navigate to the best choice for your purchase. As QR codes have become more and more popular with our customers, Fiserv is ready to help us use them. By collaborating with our business partners, NiCA has created a website that is packed with ways to improve your bottom line and create new efficiencies for your businesses.

We thank Randy Reichert, CCE for entertaining us with his “Musings from a Larry,” prayed for the recovery of Foundation trustee Mark Lancaster’s daughter, Kirsten Lancaster, awarded $33,500 in scholarships to 17 recipients, sent 7 members to their first conventions, experienced the frustration and joy that the restaurant revitalization Program brought our members, watched the 100-year-old lA County Fair move from September to May dates due to heat, enjoyed the return of NiCA Member Gatherings at Fairs, and observed the changing of the guard from retiring, seasoned leaders to an eager generation of new leaders

at every level of our Industry. Together we have caught up with the wave of credit/debit card sales, learned the financial benefits of fewer stands and smaller menus, and conquered serving more customers with less labor. Together we have truly made “Surviving” become “Thriving!”

As we celebrate this Holiday Season and approach the New Year, we are so very grateful that we are all members of our fantastic NiCA Family! Our mission is to strengthen relationships with the Fair, Festival, and Special Events Industries though effective communication, education, benefits, leadership, and solutions. We checked all those boxes this year and you each played a starring role in helping us fulfill our mission. As we continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of our Fair community, your loyal support is instrumental in helping NiCA remain a vibrant, creative home for the communication, education, leadership, and solutions that will be enjoyed by generations to come. We hope you find inspiration, respite, education, joy, ideas, benefits, and friendship within our organization. May you enjoy a warm and delightful holiday. Peace and Good Will, Rey. ▲

Tim Seivers Seivers Concessions

Henry Mitchell

Amy’s Sweet Treats Burlington, CT (2016)

Kyle Moore

Drizzle D’s, Inc. Roxboro, NC (2021)

Ashley Murray M & M Product Marketing Redondo Beach, CA (2008)

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

Elizabeth Owens Blue Moon Tavern at the Park, LLC Tampa, FL (2015)

Brandon Petree Louis & Claire Concessions Austin, TX (2017)

Tawney Price

Taylor’s Doughboy / Veggie Mayo, FL (2021)

Robert Pugh Gulf Stream Gibsonton, FL (2009)

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

Robert Rogan Butcher Boys / F&W Concessions Park City, UT (2021)

Craig Sawyers

J.J. & Sons / Piggly’s BBQ & Seafood Phoenix, AZ (2013)

Ryan Schooley State Fair Mini Donuts Davidson, NC (2013)

Grove City, PA (2013)

Owen Stern National Food Group, Inc. Novi, MI (2015)

James Stuhan Southwest Concessions Oregon Phoenix, AZ (2022)

Chris Swanson Event Food Services USA, Inc. Corona, CA

Chris Taylor Waffle Chicks, LLC Milford, IA (2021)

Patty Tessari Layton’s Concessions/ Crabby Patty Windber, PA (2021)

Nathan Vandewarker

Maverick Concepts LLC Escondido, CA (2019)

Tonio Viscusi

Angela’s International Apollo Beach, FL (2015)

Ashley Warner Calgary Stampede Calgary, AB (2004)

Nathan Wells Pacific Crest Concessions, LLC Caldwell, ID (2021)

Rebecca Wells Pacific Crest Concessions, LLC Kuna, ID (2021)

Nick White White’s Concessions Dalton Garden, ID (2015)

Fred Wiemer

Uncle Fred’s Foods Racine, WI (2008)

Wow! Thank you to all 82 renewal Members for your continued support. All renewal Members are automatically entered to have a chance to win a $2,000 Travel Voucher, sponsored by Coca-Cola. Check out the back cover to learn more. “Together We Can!”

“Renewals” continued from page 4 ►►

Association Announ C ements

Our condolences to the friends & family of Larry Lee, cce

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of longtime NiCA Member and Past director, Larry Lee, CCE, Columbine Concessions, on November 11, 2022. According to his wife Peggy, he had a funeral in Lewisville, TX on November 17, 2022 with Pastor Ben Smith leading the service.

Larry owned and operated Columbine Concessions, serving fresh squeezed Lemonade, Tea, and Coffee to Fairgoers at Southeast and Midwest events for many years. He was among the first founding members of NiCA who joined in 1993 and he served as treasurer on NiCA’s Board of directors. He was also one of the first CCe recipients and he had a strong belief in the importance of communication. Larry wrote, “Communication is very important in business as well as in everyday life. By keeping a line of communication open, you can solve a lot of problems. By listening to the other person and discussing the situation, you have the potential of having fewer problems. Communication is not just talking, but also listening and considering what the other party has to say. In management, good communication is essential. Listen to your workers, in advice, counsel, and potential problems, and react accordingly. Remember that you are dealing with another human. Treat this human with the appreciation and respect with which you wish to be treated.” He will not only be missed by his friends and family, but his extended “Fair Family” as well. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time. ▲

Time is Running Out! Renew or Refer a Member for an entry to Win

Coca-Cola generously sponsors our NiCA Membership Contest with three different prizes, with NiCA sponsoring one prize. Like 2021’s contest, this year all of the renewing Members’ names will be placed in the Coca-Cola grand prize drawing for the $2,000 Gift of travel voucher. Any NiCA Member who successfully refers a new or former member receives one chance for each one to win $500, and a member of NiCA leadership also gets a chance for a separate $500 drawing. The NiCA Member who refers the most members automatically gets a free NiCA Membership, $100, and their name engraved on a Championship Belt!

Time is running out! New Applications can be found at www.nicainc.org, on the inside back cover of each issue of NiCA News, or by request from the NICA Office. See page 33 in this issue for a list of all referral Members who are currently entered into the drawing (as of our publication date). Good luck! ▲

do you Have any

changes for the 2023 Membership directory?

Do you have any changes for your online and directory listing for the 2023 NICA Membership Directory? We will be sending out reminder emails to all members, and physical mail to all members who do not currently have an email to remind you this month. All changes must be submitted no later than January 20, 2023 for guaranteed inclusion in the next edition.

If you have any changes, please login to your Online Member Account at www.nicainc.org, email communications@nicainc.org, or call us at (813) 438-8926. If you have any address changes, we will also update your NiCA News mailing address for future issues. ▲

Thoughts From a

This month’s Statements of Communication and Management Philosophy are from our 2022 Certified Concessionaire Executive Designees, who also serve on the West Council: Irene Dugan, CCE, Chuckwagon, Ryan Long, CCE, l&S Concessions, and Kara Moederndorfer, CCE, Sleek Greek

My husband and I own and operate the Chuckwagon and other Concession stands. The Chuckwagon has been operational for 50 years. I married into this business in 1984 and worked for two years prior. I have seen many changes in this business and I have learned that the customer is the number one priority. I also know that my employees are a big part of how customers perceive us. They are the first ones to connect with the customer. It is our job to make the customer feel welcome. We need to put them first.

Our customers are critical to our business. If we have no customers, we have no business. Over the years, we have tried to provide quality and value to our customers. In the last ten years, this has become difficult. Food costs have skyrocketed beyond comprehension along with paper goods and all fees at the Fairs like rent, wages, and fuel. We have had to raise our prices to a level I never thought I would see.

With all the issues in this Industry, communicating is probably the best way to help things work the best they can. We are communicating with Fair Management so they understand what is happening with our pricing and we are communicating with our employees to have them know what we expect of them.

It has been challenging to find qualified employees. I have a rule sheet that each employee needs to become familiar with; it has important phone numbers and various items for them to consider. As soon as we are open, I walk around to all the stands and figure out where each employee would be the most productive. This works out pretty well. ▲

At l&S Concessions, communication and management define our philosophy and are the keys to our success. For instance, communicating to our employees to insure proper service in a clean healthy environment and producing a good quality product are important. Also, communicating with our partners, the Fair Managers and Event Staff, that we are in the proper location goes along with making them satisfied with our work. Being a good neighbor to our fellow Concessionaires and Commercial Vendors is another philosophy we practice. By doing this we have established a great bond and partnership with Fairs and Events. ▲

I am a second generation Concessionaire that has grown up with a love for the business. From the very beginning, I was taught that without the Fairgoers, we would have nothing. We, as Concessionaires, have the ability to give the Fairgoer a wonderful experience that they will remember all year long. Keeping a clean stand with great food and excellent customer service is of the upmost importance to me and my company. ▲

The Certified Concessionaire Executive Program was developed to recognize the professionalism of Concessionaires. Visit the CCe website today for more information and the online application: www.nicainc.org/CCE ▲

Kara Moederndorfer, CCE

Ryan Long, CCE

Irene Dugan, CCE

NiCA directors, Council Members, and Staff at the Marketplace trade Show ribbon Cutting: Jay Wells, CCE, director, Dan Lusenhop, treasurer, Phil Delahoyde, director, Bary Bunts, CCE, east Council, Patty Tessari, east Council, Rey O’Day, executive director, Kelly Grout, director, Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, President, Kim Barr, CCE, 2nd vice President, Tom Hodson, CCE, director, Sandy Class, CCE, Past President, Stacey Pittroff-Barona, director, Brandy Arredondo, CCE, director, Ryann Newman, West Council, and Michelle Allen, West Council

Wow, what an experience! Over the course of 48 hours, Concessionaires, Commercial Vendors, and Fair Management gathered at the tuscany Suites and Casino in lovely Las Vegas for NiCA Marketplace, “Together!” to share ideas, networking, products, and services.

Monday and Tuesday’s Opening and Closing General Sessions, Educational Workshops, “How To” Sessions, Roundtables, and Trade Shows were packed. To give you a quick run-down on the numbers, this event featured a non-exclusive Trade Show with 32 Exhibitors, 15 Educational Workshops led by hands-on Event Industry Thought Leaders, 12 “How To” Sessions led by Experts, 9 Roundtable Topics, and a plethora of Networking Opportunities that were welcome and comfortable—a place where we could all understand we are Customers of each other and “Together” we share a Fair Guest to serve.

On Monday, November 7, 2022, the Opening General Session, sponsored by entegra and Wings of Fame Productions, featured a Welcome and Introduction by Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, President, and Rey O’Day, executive director, and a Greeting from Benefit Partners entegra, Fare Foods, Fiserv, Hummel Group, and Sysco. Rey then introduced Keynote Speaker Michael Bradley, who taught us how to “Think Like Walt!” Monday’s Educational Workshops, sponsored by Schantz Manufacturing, began with “Affordability Defines Perceived Value,” moderated by Rey O’Day, executive director, with Panelists Gene Cassidy, CFE, the Big e; Audrey Poole, Fare Foods; Donna Ruhm, Retired, San diego County Fair; Jon Tartaglia, Washington State Fair; and Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, President. This workshop tackled the topics of affordability in regard to inflation and the idea that Fairs and Vendors

Stacey Pittroff-Barona, director, greeting Attendees as they made their way upstairs to Register

Michael Bradley, MHB Productions, giving the Keynote Address “Think Like Walt” to kick off the event

Rey O’Day, executive director, and Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, President, during the Opening General Session

NiCA Marketplace attendees asked each other “What’s Your Tipping Policy?” during Monday’s packed Roundtable Discussions

Jeff Thornberry, CCE, director, explaining about “The Ever, Ever-Changing Landscape of Commercial Exhibits” to attendees

Maria Zaffuto, Sweet Adventure Concessions, speaking to fellow NiCA Members about “Product and Menu Duplication” while enjoying boxed lunches at the Roundtables

James

CCE, Midwest Council, during “What’s Your Exit Strategy?”

will have to work together with careful buying, pricing for what we need rather than for what we want, and rent discussions in order to take care of our Guests.

“The Ever, Ever-Changing Landscape of Commercial Exhibits,” sponsored by Webster enterprises, was presented by Jeff Thornberry, CCE, director, and featured media from Randy and Tammy Fulk, Korie’s Kloset Jeff explained while Fairs and Expos have featured Commercial Exhibits from their inception, they are experiencing a business environment that requires help to update and strengthen Commercial Exhibit offerings. This session set the context, looked at different business models, suggested how new Vendors will be cultivated, and shared ways to reimagine and promote Commercial Exhibit programs so they will thrive in today’s business context.

Next up, over 75 attendees filled up the Roundtables while they enjoyed boxed lunches, sponsored by GoCashless, and discussed important topics including “Fair Hours,” “MultiYear Contracts,” “Beverage Sponsorship,” “Product/Menu Duplication,” “What’s Your Tipping

Policy?” “Single Item Stands Vs. 7-11 Menu Stands,” “Increasing Length of Stay,” “Credit Card Convenience Fees,” “What’s on Your Mind?” and more. Roundtables were moderated by Jessica Gottsche, east Council Coordinator.

Monday afternoon’s workshops started off with “What is Your Exit Strategy?” moderated by Don Delahoyde CCE, Past President, with Panelists James McConnell, Midwest Council; Larry McConnell, CCE, McConnell Concessions; Nathan Marcus, West Coast Weenies; and Phil Teague, Hummel Group. They explained the financial and many interpersonal dynamics behind succession plans, the Transfer of Ownership process, family and third-party transactions, and the importance of trust.

Randy Larscheid, OC Hospitality Group, presented “Building a Food Safety Program,” which taught attendees how to build a program that includes training session curriculum, inspection training, scoring standards, and award programs. The adoption of food safety programs contributes to trust and professionalism between County Health Departments, Vendors, and Event Promoters.

Donna Ruhm, Retired, San diego County Fair, speaking during the “Affordability Defines Perceived Value” Panel Discussion

McConnell,

Nathan Marcus, West Coast Weenies, answering audience questions in the “What’s Your Exit Strategy?” workshop

Jerry Ross, Harmony Artists, presented the “Entertainment Increases Business” workshop with Panelists John Juliano and Anne-Alise Pietruska, Mellowship entertainment; and Michael Searle, Arizona State Fair / Smile engineer. Attendees learned how to bring value and enjoyment to the Guest and increase length of stay at any event, because length of stay increases per-person spending. Entertainment also helps move them throughout the event.

Past President Sandy Class, CCE moderated the workshop, “Make It Pretty and Hide the Ugly” with Panelists Scott Norton, OCC Signs; Rey O’Day, executive director; and Amanda Schlatre, Houston livestock Show; and Scott Shacklett, OVG Hospitality-Fairplex. This workshop explained that every day is opening day at the Fair for Fair Guests. The light bulbs all work, flags are fresh and vibrant, freezers and trash are out of view, propane is safely strapped down, signage is professional, windows are clean, condiment stations are spotless, cables are covered, and personal items are put away. This panel shared where to purchase privacy screens, daily checklists, suggested decorating ideas, and

provided wardrobe guidelines. They explained that it is cleanliness and color in the daytime and lights and cleanliness in the nighttime. “Let’s exceed our Guests’ expectations!”

“The Sponsorship Conundrum,” sponsored by Mattress Firm, was moderated by Jeff Thornberry, CCE, director, and featured the Panelists Liliana Cavazos, Mattress Firm; Nancy Chapman, Chapman Fashion; Ryann Newman, Fruit Caboose Concessions; Alejandra Salazar, State Fair of texas; and Pam Simon, CFE, Minnesota State Fair. This panel of stakeholders discussed why and what kinds of sponsorships achieve the ultimate win-win-win-win for Guests, Vendors, Sponsors, and the Fair.

Monday afternoon also marked an impressive turnout of younger NiCA Members for the “Generation Forward Organizing Meeting,” a gathering of like minds to plan the future of NiCA. What works and what doesn’t for NiCA’s growth fueled a positive discussion and the group plans to meet again in Tampa, with the hope that the creation of new, fun, and relevant events will interest others under 45 to participate more in the Industry and join NiCA.

Jerry Ross, Harmony Artists, with Anne-Alise Pietruska and John Juliano, Mellowship entertainment; and Michael Searle, Arizona State Fair / Smile during “Entertainment Increases Business”

Randy Larscheid, OC Hospitality Group, speaking in his presentation, “Building a Food Safety Program”

eadership gathering for the “Generation Forward Organizing Meeting” on Monday afternoon

The NiCA Marketplace trade Show featured 32 companies that were eager to meet, serve, and strengthen relationships with attendees.

Some of these Exhibitors came for the first time, including James Toler, Florida’s Best. He shared, “At this convention, I was able to accomplish in two days something I had been attempting to do for eight years. The experience was absolutely invaluable for my company, and I cannot stress enough how positive my experience was overall.”

The Trade Show also featured networking opportunities and attendees trying their luck both with Pick-a-ticket opportunity items, provided by NiCA leadership, and the Corn Hole Contest, sponsored by Don Delahoyde, CCE, Past President. Additionally, we would like to thank eventHub for sponsoring complimentary drink tickets during Monday night’s Happy Hour

On Tuesday, November 8, 2022, Educational Workshops, sponsored by Galaxy Amusement Supply and Whirley drink-Works, started off with “Punch Up Your Purchasing Power,” moderated by Dan Lusenhop, Past President, with Panelists Drew Ammerman, Sysco; Todd Patrick, entegra; and Dan Reyes, OSD Distribution. In an era of supply chain sticker shock and shortages, this workshop guided attendees through the maze of finding the deals and embracing commonalities that best suit your business.

Jeff Thornberry, CCE, moderated “The Nuts and Bolts of Successful Selling,” sponsored by rickey’s Jerky, with Panelists Lisa Immel, Wisconsin State Fair; Ryan Rickey, rickey’s Jerky; and Brent Neal, eastern lighting. This panel discussion explained the many facets of choosing locations from which to sell, booth

Greg Tomasello and Yvonne Maatouk, Smithfield Foods, offering bacon cotton candy to attendees

Mike Cruz, Cruzer’s Cocina, trying his luck at the Corn Hole Contest

Clay Steadham and Lynn Schepers, Sysco, with Wyatt Stumbo, Supplies of the Fly

West Council Members Ryan Long, CCE and Irene Dugan, CCE at the NiCA Booth Milton Price and Steve Wrobel, Fiserv

Jaime Magdaleno and Scott Norton, OCC Signs

Ryan Rickey, Mina Rickey, Heather Malburg, and Mike Malburg with rickey’s Jerky

James Toler, Florida’s Best

Antonio Felix, Todd Patrick, and Michael Hancock, entegra

Mark Steele, Schantz Manufacturing, answering the question “What’s New?” with Steve Applegate, JM Smucker, and Lola Ramirez, JlQ Concessions

Jeff Thornberry, CCE, shining some light on Exhibitor booth presentation for “The Nuts and Bolts of Successful Selling” before the Trade Show

Shari Black, CFE, Wisconsin State Fair, discussing “Math Problems, Riddles, and Their Answers” on Tuesday afternoon

James Judkins, JKJ Workforce, during “Locating Labor and Rising Labor Costs”

display design, merchandising techniques, product lighting, pricing promotions, island layouts, a tiktok look at setting up a stand, as well as other media pieces, and a component on the Trade Show floor, where the group saw how lighting can affect a booth’s presentation.

This led directly into the second day of the Marketplace trade Show, accompanied by a complimentary pizza buffet for all attendees, sponsored by Chuck and Irene Dugan, Chuckwagon, and Sandy Class, CCE and Beth Owens, tavern at the Park. Once again it was a wonderful time for Exhibitors and Attendees to network and do business with each other. exhibitor Clay Steadham, Sysco, shared, “It was great event all around and we look forward to next year. The hospitality and engagement from your group was second to none.”

Starting off Tuesday afternoon, “Math Problems, Riddles, and Their Answers” was moderated by Rey O’Day, executive director, with Panelists Shari Black, CFE, Wisconsin State Fair; Jennifer Giordano, CCE, C&C Concessions; Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, President; and Steve Wrobel, Fiserv. This group discussed how 1% at

Phil Delahoyde, director, and Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, President, “Locating Labor and Rising Labor Costs”

Jessica Gottsche, Social Media Coordinator, in “Social Media and Marketing Do Work”

the top of the line is not 1% at the bottom line and why that happens, why “less becomes more” so unexpectedly, if it is total attendance or daily attendance that drives your bottom line, how to apply QR codes in your business, and other important topics from varied perspectives.

“What’s New?” was moderated by Kathy Ross, CCE, Past President, with Panelists Steve Applegate, JM Smucker; Yvonne Lepor, Berk Concession Supply; Nate Janousek, Fun Biz Concessions; Lola Ramirez, JlQ Concessions; and Mark Steele, Schantz Manufacturing These panelists discussed many new trends in the Industry including pagers, kiosk ordering, technology, more credit card sales, 365 days of ordering, linking food to agriculture, local suppliers, and container stands, as well as asking what new things attendees were trying.

Rey O’Day, executive director, moderated “Locating Labor and Rising Labor Costs” with Panelists Phil Delahoyde, director; James Judkins, JKJ Workforce; Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, President; with a special video recording from Scott Shacklett, OVG Hospitality-Fairplex. This panel discussed how to locate labor to

Drew Ammerman, Sysco, speaking to attendees during the “Punch Up Your Purchasing Power” workshop

and Dale Smith, Family A Fair

Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, President, Kara Moederndorfer, CCE, West Council, and Kim Barr, CCE, 2nd vice President

hire and how rising labor costs have become a major concern to our Industry, how to develop training programs, how to interface with the H-2B programs more successfully, and how that affects the Fair and Vendor relationship.

“Social Media and Marketing Do Work” closed out Tuesday’s workshops with Moderator Jessica Gottsche, Social Media Coordinator, and Panelists Charlie Boghosian, Chicken Charlie’s; Michael Bradley, MHB Productions; and Rachael Lough, Carolina Classic Fair. This diverse group discussed how to effectively use various social media platforms to increase engagement and drive business to our Industry in ways that were nearly impossible to achieve before.

Throughout the event, “How To” Sessions, sponsored by Hummel Group, were also held, where Industry experts including NiCA leadership and representatives from entegra, eventHub, Fiserv, and Schantz, led sessions touching upon many important “How To” topics that included “How to Order a New Concession Trailer,” “How to Clover,” “How to Fill out the CCE Application,” “How to Use EventHub,” “How to Sign up for the NICA Health Plan,” “How to Speak with Confidence,” “How to Safely Move Equipment,” and “How to Say ‘NO’ Professionally.”

The Closing General Session, sponsored by Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, President, and Vincent Nelson, CCE, 1st vice President. Daryl Whicheloe, CCE and Rey O’Day, executive director, addressed the audience, thanked NiCA’s Sponsors and Benefit Partners, and asked attendees to explain what NiCA means to them. Afterwards, Gene Cassidy, CFE, President and CEO of the Big e, challenged and inspired us to think and act on “What’s on the Horizon.”

Kim Barr, CCE, 2nd vice President, Irene Dugan, CCE, West Council, Brandy Arredondo, CCE, director, Ryan Long, CCE, West Council, and Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, President

Next up were the opportunity drawings for the Pick-A-ticket items including gift cards, collectibles, equipment, and wine, the Corn Hole boards, won by Alan Barr, CCE, Pacific Crest Concessions, and the Concession trailer grand prize, provided by Forever Concession trailers, won by Samantha Dhulst. Congratulations!

Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, President, and Kim Barr, CCE, 2nd vice President, and Brandy Arredondo, CCE, director, then recognized 2022 CCe Award recipients Irene Dugan, CCE, Ryan Long, CCE, and Kara Moederndorfer, CCE Afterwards, Dale and Celia Smith, Family A Fair, and Past President Sandy Class, CCE, presented the Good Neighbor Award to the Wisconsin State Fair’s Shari Black, CFE and Lisa Immel Daryl Whicheloe, CCE and Kim Barr, CCE then made a toast, sponsored by Giant Slide, and Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, CCE, The Original Australian Battered Potatoes, to lead into the industry excellence reception

In 48 hours our attendees networked with colleagues, discussed practical solutions, enjoyed storytelling, and returned enriched. We hope you can join us at the next NiCA Marketplace where we’ll be “Together!” again. ▲

Lisa Immel and Shari Black, CFE of the Wisconsin State Fair, with Sandy Class, CCE, Past President and Nominator, and Award Originators Celia

Rey O’Day, executive director, and Gene Cassidy, CFE, the Big e

Daryl Whicheloe, CCE and Kim Barr, CCE giving a toast to close out the evening

Hearing from a First Timer Convention Attendee

The NiCA Foundation was created by NiCA to oversee and administer an academic and vocational educational scholarship program, foster development opportunities and training services, and provide a travel stipend for first time convention attendees. Dan Ashby, Ashby Concessions, has written the following about his experience at NiCA Marketplace as a First timer Convention Scholarship recipient: Dan Ashby, Ashby Concessions

I had the opportunity to be selected for the First timer’s Scholarship and am so thankful

for the First timer’s Convention Scholarship, which offers an opportunity for NiCA Members to attend a NiCA Convention in 2023. Learn more and apply online at nicainc.org/first-timers

Join us February 13-15, 2023 at the beautiful Sheraton tampa Brandon Hotel, located in Tampa, FL, for the 2023 NiCA Business expo and Fare Foods Food Show. This year’s theme is “All In!” With our record numbers seen this season, especially in comparison to PostPandemic events, this Industry is coming back strong! The NiCA Business expo will be held Monday through Wednesday, providing Workshops and discussion Groups which cover the issues and the daily challenges our Industry is faced with today. On Wednesday evening, we invite you to attend the Annual General Membership Meeting, where we will present

our Year in review, install the 2023 Board of directors, announce the Coca-Cola Membership Contest winners, and hear from Benefit Partners. During the evening’s Annual Gala, we will highlight the NiCA Foundation, honor a new Hall of Fame recipient, and enjoy a delicious buffet, courtesy of Fare Foods. The Fare Foods Food Show will run Monday and Tuesday and will feature Exhibitors showcasing the latest food trends and technology that will define and kickstart the 2023 Fair Season.

Stay tuned to NiCA and Fare Foods communications for important announcements and programming information, coming soon!

Happy to be “Together!” in raleigh

As has become the tradition, NiCA’s east Council hosted a Breakfast rally at the North Carolina State Fair in October. On Tuesday, October 18, 2022, over 50 members of NiCA came together in the Hall of Fame Room, located in the North Carolina State Fair’s Graham Building, for a morning of networking, NiCA updates, and comradery. Also attending were Fair Manager Kent Yelverton, Commercial Space Administrator Letrice Midgett and new Assistant Manager Robert Fogle.

The theme of this year’s North Carolina State Fair was “So Happy Together” and we definitely were happy with the return of a fresh, delicious hot breakfast, and great company. The attendees shared plenty of news of events taking place on

Jessica Gottsche, east Council Coordinator, with North Carolina State Fair’s Robert Fogle, Assistant Manager, Letrice Midgett, Commercial Space Administrator, and Kent Yelverton, Fair Manager

the Fairgrounds throughout the run, raised money with an auction and raffle, and collected donations to the NiCA regional Council Scholarship.

Jessica Gottsche, east Council Coordinator, shared many updates from the NICA Office, especially news of the then-upcoming NiCA Marketplace, “Together!” convention in November and NiCA Business expo and Fare Foods Show in Tampa in February.

Thank you to those who donated prizes for our raffle, which raised money to support the Council’s activities: victor Products, Galaxy Amusement Sales, Gold Medal, Greensboro, NiCA, NiCA east Council, Tom Hodson, CCE, the thomas Hodson Company, and Kelley Myers, Barb Wilson enterprises.

An extra special thank you to the NiCA Past Presidents who participate at the North Carolina State Fair for sponsoring our delicious meal! ▲

2023 Camping Space winner

Harley Steiner, Charlie Cheese and Sons, with Letrice Midgett, North Carolina State Fair

Kent Yelverton, North Carolina State Fair Manager, welcoming attendees to the Breakfast rally in Raleigh

Gentry Miller, Josephine’s Glazed donuts, won the Giveaway from victor Products, pictured with Christa Quinlan, Marty Zinder, and Brian Lynn, victor Products

Dennis Fraleigh, Past director, won the Fair picture

Jessica Gottsche, East Council Coordinator

nICA’s social media Presence is Thriving!

Jessica Gottsche, Social Media Coordinator

NiCA’s social media presence continues to thrive and provide more and more valuable information for our members, and the Industry, but could you be missing out? Let’s work through the Facebook tricks of the trade to make sure you see what you need to. Just a few minutes dedicated to social media for a few weeks will let the networks know what you want to see in your feed.

We’re asking that you visit each of the NiCA social profiles and make sure to click “Like” and “Follow” to ensure that our information is sent to your feed, and then take it one step further... make sure that you are actually engaging with our content. Have you ever wondered why you’re missing posts from friends or businesses that you connected with on Facebook? The Facebook algorithm tries to help you be more interested in the platform by restricting content that may not be of interest for you. Are you seeing posts from the same 15-20 friends, even though you may have hundreds of connections? If you don’t engage, Facebook assumes that you are not interested. The easiest way to fix this is to start to like, comment on and share our content. If you can commit to doing this over the course of a couple of weeks, Facebook and instagram will recognize that you need to hear from us, and will make sure that NiCA updates are at the top of your newsfeed!

Social Media 2022 in Review

NICA’s Facebook Followers Break 1,750

For NiCA, social media remains a place for us to connect, to find each other, and in 2021, to celebrate our return to work. The number of followers on our Facebook continues to grow

at a healthy pace. In 2022, we saw some of the strongest growth we have seen on Facebook since we started tracking the information. Most interestingly, during the week of NiCA Marketplace, we saw some of the strongest growth in followers on the platform! Our current 1,750 followers are continuing to get valuable information and enjoying seeing fellow members active in the Industry.

NICA’s Instagram Continues to Grow

Social Media 2022 in Review

For NICA, social media remains a place for us to connect, to find each other, and in 2021 to our return to work The number of followers on our Facebook continues to grow at a healthy 2022, we saw some of the strongest growth we have seen on Facebook, since we started tracking information. Most interestingly, during the week of NICA Together Marketplace, we saw some strongest growth in followers on the platform. Our current 1,750 followers are continuing valuable information and enjoying seeing fellow members active in the industry.

dramatically since we launched over three years ago, and the growth in 2022 continued

2000

1500

1000

500

2022 Followers

1-May 1-Sep 1-Dec

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Follow us on Instagram by searching: @nicainc

NICA’s Twitter Growth Remaining Steady

For NICA, social media remains a place for us to connect, to find each other, and in 2021 to celebrate our return to work The number of followers on our Facebook continues to grow at a healthy pace. In 2022, we saw some of the strongest growth we have seen on Facebook, since we started tracking the information. Most interestingly, during the week of NICA Together Marketplace, we saw some of the strongest growth in followers on the platform. Our current 1,750 followers are continuing to get valuable information and enjoying seeing fellow members active in the industry.

Followers

Facebook follower growth trends; follow and like our page at @NICAInc and/or facebook.com/NICAinc

Follow and like our page at: https://www.facebook.com/NICAinc/ Twitter continues to be the go to social network for breaking news, quick updates and sharing informative clips that are important to users and their followers. NICA’s 365 Twitter followers about important NICA news, and have access to retweets from the Association that provide related news updates.

2022

Followers

twitter continues to be the go-to social network for breaking news, quick updates and sharing informative clips that are important to users and their followers. NiCA’s 365 twitter followers learn about important NiCA news and have access to retweets from the Association that provide Industry-related news updates.

1-Jan 1-May 1-Sep 1-Dec

Follow and like our page at: https://www.facebook.com/NICAinc/ Twitter continues to be the go to social network for breaking news, quick updates and sharing informative clips that are important to users and their followers. NICA’s 365 Twitter followers learn about important NICA news, and have access to retweets from the Association that provide s industry

Find us on Twitter at: @NICAInc

twitter follower growth trends; follow us at @NICAinc

Instagram, the photo and video sharing social network, owned by Meta where a user can capture a moment in time and share it with their followers. Still one of the fastest growing

Celebrating Casino night “Together!”

Jay Wells, CCE, Director

Each Fall the NiCA West Council and Board Members who play the Arizona State Fair team up to host a night filled with games for NiCA Members to unwind and hopefully win big! One year it was poker, and eventually they added bingo to the lineup to cater to those who needed something new. This year, on Wednesday, October 19th, it was no different. As a prelude to meeting in Vegas, the event received a new spin as a Casino Night featuring several popular games of chance including poker, roulette, craps, and more! This event was also unique since they had teachers onsite to assist those who were learning to play these games for the first time.

Jay Wells, CCE, director, said “The event was in part a way to say ‘Come practice with us before you come to Las Vegas’ and it was a lot of fun, too!” Jay organized the event along with Jacqueline Bradbury, CCE, Secretary; Jennifer Giordano, CCE,

Foundation treasurer; Dan Lusenhop, treasurer; Dominic Palmieri, CCE, Past President; and Steve Vartanian, West Council.

We couldn’t have done it without this year’s sponsors, too: table Sponsors Ann and Mike Howell, Action Food ii llC; Food Sponsors Morgan and Josh Stremmel, top Notch Concessions; Food and Prize Sponsors Jackie and Brian Bradbury, Sweet Cheeks and Carol and Jay Wells, Wells Concessions; and Beverage Sponsors Chuck, Jennifer, and Ken Giordano, C&C Concessions. We also would like to thank the Arizona State Fair for providing an RV Space for their 2023 event.

It was described as an informal, easygoing, and fun end-of-the-season evening of laughs and friendship. Jay Wells, CCE, director, usually the Chair of this event, was grateful for everyone’s help, especially Dan Lusenhop, treasurer, who had to undergo surgery suddenly leading up to the event. It was truly an act of “Together We Can!” ▲

Event Organizers Jennifer Giordano, Foundation treasurer, Jacqueline Bradbury, CCE, Secretary, and Jay Wells, CCE, director, before the start of Casino Night

Congratulations to all of our prize winners including Marissa Britt, Robert Hahn, Brianda Martinez, Dominic Palmieri, CCE, Ace Walden, and Clay West

Sheryl Law, C&C Concessions, won many drawings including the Lottery Tree!

Teachers were available to assist those who were learning how to play an assortment of casino games

Arizona Casino Night poker players learned the best way to play and healthy competition took them through the night

Regional Council Members Gett I n G to Know Your

We had the chance to interview east Council Member and First timer Convention Scholarship recipient Patty Tessari, aka “crabby Patty,” based out of Windber, PA. Her responses are below :

What is the name of your business and what products do you sell?

We go by layton’s Concession / Crabby Patty and sell Hot Sausage, Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, French Fries, Crabby Patties (Crab Cake Sandwich), Steak Sandwiches, Reubens, and Gyros. We also feature a complete breakfast at most locations as well as home cooked dinners.

What is your annual route?

We mostly travel around Pennsylvania with a few events in Maryland and other locations on the East Coast.

How long have you been a Concessionaire and a NICA Member?

My family started in the Concession business in 1945. When I was twelve, I began to run my own pizza stand. I completely took over my family’s business in 2000. My daughter, Pam, is married to another Concessionaire, and my son TJ is also in the business and sells funnel cakes and other deep fried treats. My other family members support

my business in various ways. I have been a NiCA Member for about four years. I believe Bary Bunts, CCE, east Council, convinced me to be a member and Jeff Ross, ross Concessions, was the one who signed me up.

What do you like most about being a Concessionaire?

Show business is my life. I love moving from town-to-town and catching up with the people I only see once a year. I have a lot of non-blood family out here. The old timers take care of each other and I think the new ones coming out need to learn to do that, too.

How has the Concession business changed since you first started out? What’s something you wish would change?

Things are a bit harder now... more rules and regulations, everyone has their hand out, and people want to work less and make more money. The one thing I would like to change is that I wish Fairs and Festivals would take into consideration the thoughts and concerns of Vendors. We have

Patty Tessari, east Council, and her husband Anthony are the owners of layton’s Concession / Crabby Patty

Patty Tessari’s sister Pam Miller, herself, her daughter Amanda Brant, and son TJ Tessari in front of their stand

been part of their events through thick and thin. We really have seen it all and we can give them some insight on things.

What inspired you to become a Regional Council Member?

I was inspired to join the east regional Council because I want to bring attention to the Concessionaires’ needs in our region.

What do you hope the East Council accomplishes during your tenure?

I hope the east Council will be able to work more closely with the local Fairs so that all Independent Concessionaires are successful at their events.

What is your most valuable NICA Benefit?

My most valuable NICA Benefit is being able to use the discount from Sysco to order products.

We appreciate your responses Patty! What is the best way for a NICA Member to reach you?

They can reach me by email or phone: pirasset@aol.com or (814) 241-5008. ▲

The excited group of NiCA Members, leadership, and Staff on their way to visit Sysco las vegas for a facility tour, product demonstration, and lunch after NiCA Marketplace

Scott Shacklett, OVG Hospitality-Fairplex, Rey O’Day, executive director, and Sherry Flores, Spectra Food Service

Bary Bunts, CCE, east Council, and Letrice Midgett, North Carolina State Fair, in Raleigh

Jennifer Giordano, CCE, Foundation treasurer, Fred Pittroff, Giant ride, Larry McConnell, CCE, McConnell Concessions, and Audrey Poole, Foundation President

Marie Zaffuto and Michael Bleau, eventHub, during the NiCA Marketplace trade Show

New Members Benito Arellanes and Herendira Rodriguez, tacos el Flaco Food truck llC

Rey O’Day, executive director, with “Rey’s Friends” Helene Luley and Carole Purcell who were a great help as volunteers for NiCA Marketplace, “Together!”

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2022 Membership Contest Leaderboard*

Renewal Members ($2,000 Gift of Travel)

For a complete list, visit www.nicainc.org/contests

Referrals: General Membership

Jeff Ross, CCE 6

Ron Smith

Rod Beach 1

Eric Campbell 1

Chris Conkle, CCE 1

Carmel Dyer-Pittroff 1

Rusty Groscurth 1

Russ Harrison, CCE 1

Mark Hill, CCE 1

Steven Jankiewicz

1

Don Long, CCE 1

Ann Menchen 1

Charles Miller

1

Timothy Packer 1

Audrey Poole 1

Jeff Satay 1

Gary Shepard 1

Dale Smith, CCE 1

R. Joshua Stremmel 1

Phil Teague 1

Referrals: Regional Councils

Steve Vartanian 4

Jan Gary, CCE 2

Gigi Horowitz 2 Ryann Newman 2

Bary Bunts, CCE.............................................................................. 1

Ryan Hagy 1

Matt Ribar 1

Patty Tessari

Referrals: Board of Directors

Jacqueline Bradbury, CCE 8

Tom Hodson, CCE

Jay Wells, CCE 5

Daryl Whicheloe, CCE 5

Sandy Class, CCE

Phil Delahoyde 3

Dan Lusenhop 2

Vincent Nelson, CCE 2

Stacey Pittroff-Barona 2

Brandy Arredondo, CCE 1 Kim Barr, CCE 1

Horst Schacht 1 *referral listing as of 10/31/22. See back cover for more information, rules, and prizes.

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Natio N al iN depe N de N t Co NC essio N aires a sso C iatio N , iNC .

1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511

Phone: (813) 438-8926 • Fax: (813) 803-8460 Email: nica@nicainc.org • Website: www.nicainc.org

MEMbErShIp ApplICAtIoN

q Mr. q Mrs. q Ms. First Name: Last Name:

Name of Business:

Date: #: q Member Renewal

Physical Address: City : State: Zip:

Mailing Address: City : State: Zip:

Primary Phone

Phone

rE gul A r M EM b E r S h I p

q regular Member $150

q Additional Member $100

q employee Member $75

q retired Member $50

b u SINESS / g roup M EM b E r S h I p

Includes five Memberships in one: one Regular Member, one Additional Member, and three Employee Members ($475 value).

q Business / Group ............................................................$400

Additional Member : Employee Member 1: Employee Member 2: Employee Member 3:

rE gul A r MEM b E r S h I p CAt E gor IES

Check a category below and provide a detailed description of your company’s services in the next column under Business Description.

q Food / Beverage

q Commercial exhibitors / retail / Merchants

q Attractions / entertainment

q Games

q Guest Services

gENE r A l r out IN g I NF or MAt I o N

List all states / provinces where you conduct your business.

A SS o CIAt E M EM b E r S h I p

A person or entity who provides services to the Concession Industry.

q Fair / Festival (over 75,000 attendance) $150

q Fair / Festival (under 75,000 attendance) $100

q Manufacturer / distributor / Supplier $150

q Carnival / Circus Operator $150

q Association / Special Services $150

b u SINESS D ESC r I pt I o N

Provide a detailed description of your business, products, and/or services below. This information will be used for your entry in the annual NICA Membership Directory and as keywords to search for your business on the NICA website.

A CCIDEN tA l D EAth & D ISMEM b E r MEN t I

NS ur ANCE

The NICA-sponsored $10,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance Policy is provided to Regular Members. List a beneficiary and a phone number below.

Beneficiary : Phone :

Applicant’s signature Date

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

Auto MAt IC rENE wA l o pt I o N

q I authorize NICA to make automatic renewal payments for my Membership using the credit card information above. I shall update NICA with all changes to payment information or my intent to cancel automatic renewal payments prior to my next renewal month.

1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 Time Sensitive Mail • December 2022 Issue

National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc.