December 2025 NICA News Online

CONTENTS • DECEMBER 2025 ARTICLES & FEATURES 04 New & Renewal Members 05 President’s Message 08 Director’s Voice 10 Riffing With Rey 12 Association Announcements 13 Thoughts From a CCE 14 Meet the Candidates 18 Hitting Drives in Raleigh 20 Thank You For Attending NICA Marketplace “Together!”

27 NICA Foundation: Hearing From a First-Timer Convention Attendee 29 Maintaining Our Mental Health 32 Register & Reserve Your Hotel Room For the 2026 Expo & Food Show: “Making Connections” 34 From the Camera Roll 37 2025 NICA Membership Contest

18

20 NICA Marketplace “Together!” was bigger than ever!

Learn more about the event in “Thank You” on page 20

ADVERTISERS 19 Alpha Baking 31 Corfu Foods 37 Cusumano & Sons 12 Fare Foods 28 Gold Medal 28 Haas & Wilkerson 16 Hummel Group 38 JKJ Workforce 07 K&K 31 Lamb Weston 17 McGowan Allied

36 Member Classifieds 33 Mr. G’s 33 Ole Mexican 17 RJ Schinner 31 Schantz / Craftsmen 19 Swanel 02 Sysco 09 TasteMaker 33 Teti Bakery 28 Valley Meats

The East Council had a successful second annual event at Drive Shack. See “Hitting Drives in Raleigh” on page 18

NICA is a Membership-Driven Organization dedicated to strengthening relationships with the Fair, Festival, and Special Events Industries through effective Communication, Education, Benefits, Leadership, and Solutions.

National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc. is a Florida Corporation with an Editorial and General Office located at 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 • Off ice: (813) 438-8926 • Fax: (813) 803-8460 • 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 © 1993-2025 NICA, Inc. All Rights Reserved. “Shining Bright for the Holidays!”

December 2025 NICA News 3

This Month’s Newest Members Justin Agredano

Jason Giandalia

Monica Passfield

Larry Smith

Katherine Blake

Kevin Gilbert

Roger Pelayo

Jerome Sorensen

Tim Holden

Tom Plouffe

Concession Management Services Inc. Maricopa, AZ

Frank Materdomini

Tim Ritzman

Jason Bramlette

Richard Mei

Isaac Rousso

Mike Mileham

Joey Rousso

Glenn Mitchell

Kurt Schneider

Fuego POS South Pasadena, CA Eli’s Magic Lamp Arlington, TX

Minnesnowii Savage, MN

Casey Boren

Old Fashioned Kettle Corn LLC Spokane Valley, WA

Savannah Bradbury, CCE

Great Lakes Cheese Morris Plains, NJ

Lower Foods Richmond, UT

Glittery LLC / Happy Cheeks Face Painting Cameron Park, CA

Shawn Brunk-Smith

Fair Concessions Auditing Lewisburg, WV

Robyn Burwell

Rebel Dove Design Abilene, TX

Tina Cantrell

Hot To Tot LLC Garden City, ID

Timothy Chriss Simplot Boise, ID

Travis Franks

Milo & Son Enterprises Inc Pilot Hill, CA

Stepforward Dover, Florida

Ventura Foods Clover, SC Antique Images Millville, CA Mitchell and Harmon LLC Brandon, MS

Monica Passfield Concession Kabobs Inc Lake City, GA Balboa, CA Umami Asian Bistro and Sushi LLC Cary, NC Specialty Insurance LTD West Haven, CT

Rousso’s Concessions Addison, TX Rousso’s Concessions Addison, TX

Niklas Norman

Oakland County Fair Davisburg, MI

Jeremy Osborne

O & O Enterprises DBA: Cheese Love Grill Neosho, MO

DNS Evens, Inc Paso Robles, CA

Janice Swain

Ashley Sweeney

Brittany Myer

Barona Enterprises, LLC Rosevile, MN

Diana Strahan

Swain’s Pizza On A Stick, Inc. Crystal River, FL

The Banana Man Lincoln, NE

The Schneider Group / TruStep Health Jupiter, Fl

Tri Boba Tea Plum City, WI

First Choice Concessions LLC Star Prairie, WI

LC Scramlin

Justin Shaw

Core Food Service / Essity Henderson, NV

Nick Taulelle

Taulelle Concessions Saint Michael, MN

Tiffany Watts

Live Large Distribution, Inc. dba Amish Pretzel Company Elkhart, IN

Jason Wold

Wold Amusements Virginia City, NV

Hai Bin Xie

Fresh Fruit Candy Fugitive Art / Highermind LLC Davie, FL Joshua Tree, CA

TJ Singh

Welcome to our 39 New Members!

See page 37 for the Membership Contest. “Together We Can!”

Point Of Sale Guy Bellevue, WA

This Month’s Member Renewals Rodney Albers

Mark Baugher

Julie Broetsky

Jaimie Cameron

Michelle Allen, CCE

Sherry Bechler

Ronald Burback

Leon Carachilo

Lois Bender

Steve Cable

Amanda Cornell

Rodney & Lisa ‘’LTD’’ LLC Newcastle, OK (2013) H&M Funnel Cake Express Inc Paradise, CA (2019)

Teddy Archer

Carousel Concessions Middletown, MD (1999) Bechler Family Concessions Dundee, MI (1998)

Dynamite Kettle Corn Ukiah, CA (2023)

A to Z Portion Control Meats, Inc. Bluffton, OH (2007)

Dane Baldwin

George Bonnette

D & D County Fair Cinnamon Rolls Oakhurst, CA (2009)

4 December December2025 2025NICA NICANews News

Tavern at the Park dba Bonnette Electrical, LLC Orangeburg, SC (2024)

Broetsky Foods, Inc. Fountain Hills, AZ (1995) Fun Enterprises, Inc. Portland, OR (1997) Bavarian Almond Shoppe Baltimore, OH (2000)

Brooklyn Fair Brooklyn, CT (2006) Carachilo, Inc. Hawley, PA (2009) Houston Livestock Show Houston, TX (2023)

►► “Renewals” continued on page 35 µ 1993-2005

2005-2009 2010-2014 2015-2023

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Jay Wells, CCE, President If you didn’t make it to the 2025 NICA Marketplace in Las Vegas, you missed out. Your NICA organization was “Shining Bright!” You missed out on learning what impact our Industry has on our economy, courtesy of the new IAFE Economic Impact Study.

And let me tell you it is big—it’s billions of dollars!

Now that I have your attention...

You would have learned about LLCs, how Social Media is like a two-sided coin (it can be very helpful or it could harm you), learned about our newest NICA Benefit with Performance Foodservice, maintaining our mental health, how to speak publicly, purchasing your next Concession Trailer, attracting guests, how to be found on the Fairgrounds, how AI may save you time and simplify your work, how you grow your business, and what’s working in Commercial Exhibits. From the Opening and Closing General Sessions and our “How To” Workshops, to the “Chat & Chew” Roundtables, Educational Sessions, and Trade Show, NICA Marketplace kept everyone interested, engaged, and communicating “Together!”

The buzzword during the convention and for the next year will be “Affordability.” When a party of one spends $20 to park and $20 for admission, that’s too high. When a person pays $25 for a Turkey Leg and $16 for a Funnel Cake, that’s too high. When a Concessionaire is asked to pay 25-30% of their gross sales to the Fair, that’s too high. If we cannot work together to reduce or curb this current trend, we may be pricing ourselves out of work. In fact, the public is encouraging Fairs Protesters were a common sight outside some Fairs due to higher pricing on parking, products, and services

Affordability—More Than a Buzzword and Vendors to work together to make it more affordable, too. “Together We Can!” The Fair is telling us the #1 reason people come to the Fair is for the FOOD! Should we be so expensive when a patron wants to come after work to relax, see some friends, and have a beer or some food? They have many choices, one of them being the local tavern where they don’t charge to park or to enter the place of business.

Instead, let’s support a perception that the Fair is affordable by working on our quality, pricing, and programming together. Some of the reasons our guests perceive the Fair is unaffordable may be driven by the fear of uncertainty.

Social media is another component that could influence the consumer’s perception that “the Fair is too expensive.” The Fair needs to tell their own story, the Vendors need to tell their own story. Some social media gurus are just trying to build their following, trying to get attention, or trying to get those “likes” by repeating negative stories that may not have the Fair’s best interests in mind. While we should listen to our Fairgoers, we shouldn’t listen to those influencers in search of views. Don’t hand the telling of our story exclusively over to social media. The Fair and Vendors need to be in control of their stories.

As Concessionaires, we gladly participate in promotions that bring value to smaller portions and slow days, as well as participate in group buying programs to lower our cost of supplies.

For Fairs, some good ideas I have heard for building attendance are Blue Ribbon or Coupon Books offering discounts on Food, Games, Rides, and Commercial purchases. These offerings are voluntary, not mandatory. Some Fairs have a combined admission and ride pass for multiple days called a Mega Pass package. This could result in patrons coming day-after-day for the duration of the Fair, only paying for parking, food, and drink purchases. This is how one Fair prepared to sell over 20,000 Mega Passes before and after December 2025 NICA News 5

the Fair start date at $98 per pass. Another Fair used the carload or drive-in movie approach where everyone in the car gets in for one price including parking. Remember how fun it was putting all those people in a Volkswagen to go to the movies? Some smaller Fairs are offering a free return admission if you have lunch at the Fair. Concessionaires can do the same thing with a coupon when they return to the Fair. (When the lunch is purchased, give a coupon upon return to purchase an item and get one of equal or greater value, or for half price—by that time you have sold 2½ items and you can afford to give the 3rd away). Another Fair had a blast or push sale through email and social media, where on Labor Day they sold over 20,000 tickets for $5 (originally $15), netting them over $100,000, getting their Fair off to a good start. Some Fairs offer the ability to purchase admission as early as 6 months in advance, thereby allowing patrons to spread their Fair expenses out over time. Maybe another option would be to include parking, too.

We always need to keep the value in mind, and not just give things away for free.

New Tire Benefits from Goodyear This just in!

We have made our Goodyear Tire Benefit even better. Now we have added an additional brand to both our Commercial and Consumer Goodyear Tire selections for NICA Members.

Our Commercial Tire brands available to our members in the Tier 1 option is the Goodyear Brand, which consist of all Goodyear truck tires 17” and above, as well as most 16” LT truck tires.

This applies to both Goodyear and Marathon trailer tires, and now the complete lines of Cooper and Kelly truck and trailer tires for our members as a Mid-Tier option now giving our members even more options for their Commercial Tires.

To use this Commercial Tire benefit, you must first register your NICA Membership number and a credit card with Goodyear. You can do this in the Benefits section of our NICA Website under Goodyear or at www.nicainc.org/goodyear.

Once you are signed up, go to a Goodyear Dealership or a Goodyear Commercial Tire Warehouse (after referring to the Goodyear Tire Finder also on the NICA website), and decide what tires you are interested in purchasing. Take that 6 December 2025 NICA News

decision to your dealer. If those tires are not on hand, which most of them are, they will be ordered for you in a timely manner. When the tires come in, you can take the vehicle to the dealer where the tires can be installed at a reasonable rate, or just pick them up to install at a later time by someone else of your choice or yourself. You only pay the cost you find on the Goodyear Tire Finder on the NICA website. Whatever that cost is, the dealer never knows it, and then it becomes a secret between you and Goodyear that could be up to a 18-20 plus percentage savings!

For those of you who do not use the Goodyear Commercial Tire Program, you may use the Consumer Tire Program. It’s easy! All you have to do is go to www.goodyear.com and find the right tire for your vehicle. Choose between the Tier 1 Goodyear tire selection or the Mid-Tier Cooper and Kelly tire selections, order and pay using the NICA20 code for 20% off the internet pricing, pay for the tires and installation, if chosen, by credit card, and then print your receipt and take it to the dealer to pickup or install your new tires.

There is another way—a third way—if you must have the cheapest price, and I have used it. It works really well for those 16” LT tires for our PUs we all own. Using the above, you have the Commercial price, which the dealer does not know (only you know). Tell the dealer you have the internet price, less 20%, and the Commercial price; then ask the dealer what price they will sell them to you, installed. If you have a good dealer, they may offer you a better price than both of our programs, especially if they have the tire in-house or need and want your business. Remember, negotiation is the key and our benefits will allow all our members more knowledge for negotiation, therefore, making it better for your bottom line.

As I am writing this article, I’m also getting ready for my Thanksgiving dinner and preparing to get myself to Denver where I and all your NICA Directors will be representing you, our members at the IAFE Convention and Trade Show. More about that next month! Whether you are working or at home, I wish each and everyone of you the Happiest and Merriest of Seasons and hoping you are with FRIENDS and FAMILY. Be safe, and have a Merry Christmas. “Look Sharp, Be Sharp!” and “Together We Can!” ▲

Joe Potillo, Jr. Greg Miller, CCE Tom Sattler, CCE Russ Harrison, CCE OFFICERS Richard Busse, CCE President: Jay Wells, CCE 1st VP: Stacey Pittroff-Barona, CCE Tom Hodson, CCE (Deceased) Jim Hodson, CCE (Deceased) 2nd VP: Michelle Allen, CCE Tim O’Brien, CCE Secretary: Sandy Class, CCE Ron Smith Treasurer: Bary Bunts, CCE Adam McKinney, CCE Mike Pence, CCE DIRECTORS Jack Woods, II, CCE Brandy Arredondo, CCE Bob Hallifax, CCE Jacqueline Bradbury, CCE Frank Parnell, CCE Phil Delahoyde Larry Orme (Deceased) Bryan Enloe, CCE Larry Sivori Dan Lusenhop Rich Wright Nathan Vandewarker Bill McKinney, CCE (Deceased) Mickey Venegas, CCE Arthur Pokorny, Jr. Daryl Whicheloe, CCE Gene O’Brien, CCE (Deceased) Trent Wilkes, CCE

PAST PRESIDENTS’ COUNCIL

Kim Barr, CCE Vincent Nelson, CCE Daryl Whicheloe, CCE Sandy Class, CCE Don Delahoyde, CCE Kathy Ross, CCE Dan Lusenhop Dominic Palmieri, CCE Paulette Keene, CCE

STAFF

Executive Director: Rey O’Day Communications Manager & NICA News Editor: Jesse Willard Senior Event & Project Manager: Ann Menchen Membership & Office Assistant: Mary Vega Commercial Exhibits Council Coordinator: Jeff Thornberry, CCE

East Council Coordinator: John Juliano, CFE Midwest Council Coordinator: Dennis Larson, CFE West Council Coordinators: Don Delahoyde, CCE & Julie Dunn

NICA FOUNDATION

President: Audrey Poole VP: Daryl Whicheloe, CCE Secretary: Rey O’Day Treasurer: Kathy Ross, CCE Michelle Allen, CCE Reilly Berk Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, CCE James McConnell Vincent Nelson, CCE Stacey Pittroff-Barona, CCE Larry Sivori Ron Smith

COMMERCIAL EXHIBITS COUNCIL

Nancy Chapman Nathalie Harrington Christopher Nielsen Edward Reeder, Sr. Ryan Rickey James Toler Denise Warner David Webster Diana Wolf

EAST COUNCIL

Bary Bunts, CCE Ryan Collmer Whitney Fraleigh Robert Groscurth Ryan Hagy Vito Marotta Gino Orlandi Patty Tessari Michael Zdebiak, Jr.

MIDWEST COUNCIL

Connie Boesen Chad Kolar Bruce Kozelou James McConnell Richie O’Neil Matt Ribar Mickey Venegas, CCE

WEST COUNCIL

Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, CCE Rodney Fazackerley, CCE Alan Harrington Gigi Horowitz, CCE Miki Martin, CCE Kevin Peck, CCE Albert Valadez Gus Whicheloe, CCE Nick White, CCE

As a vendor, you bring flavor and fun to every event. But serving the public also brings risks; accidents or property damage can happen when you least expect them. Don’t let liability concerns spoil your success! K&K’s Vendor Liability Program is designed just for concessionaires like you. Join thousands of vendors who trust K&K to keep their businesses safe.

December 2025 NICA News 7

DIRECTOR’S VOICE Mickey Venegas, CCE, Director

When I think back on where my story began, it feels like a long, winding road filled with family, hard work, and a lot of Tacos. My roots in this Industry stretch all the way back to my grandparents, who fed migrant workers out of their home in the 1950s. They didn’t have much education or money, but they had a strong work ethic, big hearts, and a talent for cooking.

That simple combination carried through the generations—from my parents’ restaurant in the 1970s, to the trailer I rebuilt with my own hands in 1978, to the business I run today.

Like many Concessionaires, I didn’t follow a straight path. When I was young, I was hooked on the excitement of the local Carnival rolling into town. I helped a lady make Lemon Shake-Ups and Corn Dogs and thought I had the best job in the world. Later, a family friend pushed me—quite bluntly—to stop “messing around” and build my own trailer. That moment lit a fire in me. I bought a beat-up trailer for a thousand dollars, gutted it, rebuilt it piece by piece, and started selling 25-cent Tacos at small Fairs. That first three-month season, I grossed $36,000, and suddenly I knew I had found my path.

Over the years, my operation grew from a seasonal business into a year-round one. In 2001, I opened Mickey’s Massive Burritos, and this February we’ll celebrate 25 years. The trailer and Mickey with his first Food Concession Trailer Business, lovingly named The Little Pinto Bean on Wheels

8 December December2025 2025NICA NICANews News

Proud to Serve

the restaurant now support each other—customers who try us at the Fair come to the restaurant, and folks who know the restaurant stop by our trailer at events. It’s been a good marriage of both sides of the business.

But none of that growth happened alone. When I attended my first NICA Convention, I realized how much bigger this Industry could be. I met people who treated me like family from the moment I walked in the door. Fellow Concessionaires were willing to share their stories, answer questions, and offer help without hesitation. I’ve worked in other industries, and I’ve never seen camaraderie like this. It’s still the greatest benefit NICA has to offer.

That sense of connection is why I eventually stepped into leadership. Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, Past President, encouraged me to join the Midwest Council, and once I became involved, I realized the Midwest wasn’t as active as the East and West.

That challenge motivated me. With the help of great people in Illinois and beyond, we’ve grown our gatherings and brought more visibility to NICA in this region. Serving on the Council and now on the Board has given me a deeper understanding of what we do behind the scenes—and a stronger commitment to helping our members succeed.

I proudly earned my CCE Designation at NICA Marketplace this year to reinforce these values.

A big part of that work is mentoring the next generation. I love hiring young people, many of whom I coached in track. Athletes are natural go-getters, but they also need guidance. Today’s employees don’t respond to yelling like we did in the 70s—you have to speak their language. I use simple analogies they understand: keeping the trailer ready is like getting ready for prom. You clean up, you prepare, and you put your best self forward.

I push them to think on their feet, to prioritize the most important task, and to take pride in what they do. Seeing one of my longtime employees earn a NICA Foundation Scholarship and go on to Law School reminds me why this work matters.

This season of life has brought a lot of reflection. Three years ago, I survived a shooting

Mickey Venegas and his Mickey’s Massive Burritos team

Mickey’s Massive Burritos today at the Illinois State Fair

that nearly cost me my life. I don’t bring it up often, but I mention it because it changed the way I look at every day. I’m grateful to still be here—to keep building this Concession Business, serving on this Board, and being part of this incredible Industry Family. As we head into the holidays, I’m thankful for my own family, my NICA family, and the many blessings God has given me.

Looking ahead, my goal is to continue helping the Midwest grow—to make our gatherings

stronger, raise awareness of our benefits, and support new members the same way others supported me. Bigger isn’t always better, but growth keeps us learning, moving, and staying excited for what’s next. I’m ready to keep working, keep serving, and keep contributing wherever I can.

Thank you for allowing me to be part of your NICA community. I’m proud to serve, proud to grow with you, and proud to be here for another season.

As I have grown to learn, “Together We Can!” ▲

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RIFFING WITH REY

Rey O’Day, Executive Director

Return the Magic!

November is behind us, and December is upon us. They are Health. Dr. Ryan Davis compared our mobile part of what I call the infamous lifestyle to that of professional athletes. During a “Holiday Corridor” which are Zoom call to all of us, he suggested some useful important months in my life tips that I understand many took home to their and NICA’s life. We move from family or took to work for their team. You can Fall colors to browns. Do I wear find them on our Website in the Peer-to-Peer sandals or tennis shoes, shorts section and in this issue on Page 29. Our own or long pants? Is it time to turn Jeff Thornberry, CCE noted that when the going the ceiling fan off and bring the space heater in… gets tough (and it will from time to time) there are YES? What convention were we just at? What was mindful ways to become Unshakable.

The Registration teams, Décor teams, Greeter my room number? Do I have the right notebook? teams, “Chat & Chew” team, Sweepstakes team, I recognize that person… what’s their name? Sure hope they have a name tag I can read discreetly.

Moderators, and Panelists lifted our spirits or NICA Marketplace “Together!” can take its encouraged us to try new ideas. Some left with fourth victory lap! We were many, single voices CPR know-how and others learned about food safety and trends during the Sysco-Las Vegas engaged in a single endeavor to serve our Fair Warehouse Tour. The above and so much more Industry, and therefore our Fair Guests better.

The Trade Show grew more interesting, was possible because of the engagement and we found a more comfortable of our Boards, Councils, Staff, and way to eat and network together other member volunteers with our The Fair and willing attendees. Big shout out while exploring it. I don’t know Event Industry teaches for everyone!!! about you, but AI (Artificial us that life rarely goes Intelligence) has given me In reviewing the 2025 according to plan. But if a few sleepless nights. It is Season and thinking about you keep your wits, trust efficient and a wonderful the soon to open 2026 your instincts, and lean on Events, Affordability (the time-saver. It also can be the people who love you, state of being cheap enough unsavory and cause us to you can turn even the most wonder about what is fake or for Fairgoers, Fairs, and fellow unexpected moment made up, and what is true and Vendors to be able to buy) is into “magic!” real. Brings the issue of trust right clearly weighing our minds. I am concerned there is too much finger into every moment. Mark O’Shea pointing, too much denial, too much encouraged us to both be careful and stay open to its possibilities. In several compound pricing, too much discussion, Workshops and Roundtables, our members and too little action. A National Consumer Report showed each other how they use it.

Survey reported in May 2022 that 85% of adults At one time or another we worry about the are at least moderately concerned about higher prices, and just over half said they’re more Mental Health of others and/or our own Mental 10 December 2025 NICA News

Past Presidents Sandy Class, CCE and Vincent Nelson, CCE Rey O’Day celebrating with Beverly George, CCE, Mickey’s with Rey O’Day, Executive Director, in the Trade Show Massive Burritos, who earned her CCE Pin this November

cautious in their spending habits than they were six months ago. This was reported over three years ago and its truth is still consuming much of our conversation. The compound inflation rate is the highest it has been since the 1980s. Being faced by this reality, we held a General Session that asked, “What are the most concerning topics in our Industry for you?” The top-of-mind answers from our Commercial Exhibitors were: • • • •

Affordability of Space Ability to Obtain Products Lack of Diversification Attention from Management

The answers from our Food and Beverage Owners were: • • • • •

Affordability for the Guests Rising Cost of Products Security Number of Guests vs. Number of Vendors Guests (Volume vs. Over-Fooding)

The answers from Fair Staff Attendees were: • • • •

Affordability of Entire Experience F&B Reason Coming vs. F&B High Pricing Narrative from Media Acquiring Commercial Vendors

The other pressing topic is the Volume of Daily Attendance at events. We are a Volume Industry in which the daily attendance determines the net profit of an event, not the total event attendance.

Are we looking for a different customer base or are we looking to make the experience more affordable for our current core customer base?

What encourages them to return several times and to stay longer? How are we providing quality, value, and higher than expected service? Our Fair Guests

are rarely in the conversations and meetings where we make decisions that affect them; therefore, if we want to keep them, we must ALL become their full-time advocates when they are not present.

If / when we make decisions for our own convenience at the expense of the Fair Guest’s Experience, we must stop doing it. As Warren Buffet, retiring Berkshire Hathaway CEO, wrote in his last letter to shareholders, “Kindness is costless, but also priceless... it’s hard to beat the Golden Rule as a guide to behavior. Do unto others as you would have them to do unto you!”

At both NICA Marketplace and IAFE we engaged in sessions regarding “Dollars and $ense.”

Let’s all share our ideas small or large to create Affordability. We don’t need to all agree on them, or use all of them, but we do need to get serious about doing some things that make it clear to our customers that we are listening to them. While it appears that if 20 people pay $10 or 10 people pay $20, it is a wash… it is not. In the People-Event Industry, growth opportunity is represented by the increase in the number of people attending per day. The question to ask is “Did we make more money because we charged more or because we served more people?” The answer is a shared, collaborative responsibility.

The Fair and Event Industry teaches us that life rarely goes according to plan. But if you keep your wits, trust your instincts, and lean on the people who love you, you can turn even the most unexpected moment into “magic!” Our secret sauce is that WE know how to make a way out of no way. Let’s return the “magic” to our Guest Experience by working on this “Together!”

Good Cheer, ▲ December 2025 NICA News 11

Association

ANNOUNCEMENTS Do you have any announcements you would like to share? Contact us at (813) 438-8926 or nica@nicainc.org

Congratulations to the Wilkes Concessions Family We are thrilled to celebrate the arrival of our first NICA Board of Directors baby!

Congratulations to Katie and Trent Wilkes, NICA Director, on the birth of their son, Benson Allen, born on October 29, 2025 at 9:12 AM. Weighing in at around 8.5 pounds, Benson is the newest and most adorable member of the Wilkes Concessions Family. Katie said, “We are overjoyed that our sweet boy, Benson Allen, made his way into the world. Thank you everyone who has been praying and checking in on us.” Welcome to the NICA community Benson! ▲

Share Your News, Photos & More on NICA Live!

Have you joined us yet on NICA Live? NICA Live is focused on bringing live communication to the forefront of NICA. Scan this QR Code or visit facebook.com/groups/nicalive to join!

We look forward to seeing your news, photos, and more. ▲

WE ARE YOUR FULL SERVICE SPECIAL PRINTS SUPPLIER! Did you know you can design your own custom print products?

Submit your own design or our graphics department will be happy to assist you.

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12 December 2025 NICA News

Thoughts From a This month’s CCE Statements are from our latest batch of CCE Recipients: Horst Schacht, CCE, German Specialty Food, and Tyler Schacht, CCE, Global Event Technology, from Fort Morgan, CO.

Horst Schacht, CCE CCE Earned in 2025 I have owned German Specialty Foods for the last 36 years. My Business Philosophy in the Fair Industry is centered on integrity, transparency, and long-term relationships. I believe that effective communication is the foundation of trust, both with customers and within my team, by listening closely to their needs of my clients and responding with clarity and professionalism. Management must balance efficiency with fairness, ensuring operations remain sustainable. Decisions are made with a customer-first mindset; we embrace innovation and continuous improvement. ▲

2025 CCE Recipient Horst Schacht, German Specialty Foods, accepting his award from Jay Wells, CCE, President

Tyler Schacht, CCE CCE Earned in 2025

2025 CCE Recipient Tyler Schacht, Global Event Technologies, alongside Bary Bunts, CCE, Treasurer

What is the CCE Program?

The Certified Concessionaire Executive Program was developed to recognize the professionalism of Concessionaires, with the title representing a deep understanding and respect for the Fair and Festival Business and indicates that the titleholder will perform at their highest ability. The applicant must have a minimum of

Global Event Technologies is a DBA to our parent company, Superstar TV Entertainment.

We are a Concession Company, but also a Film and TV Production Company, too! Growing up in the Industry has shaped my Management and Communications Philosophy, and has improved my relationships with employees and events. Our Business Philosophy for our Productions involve gaining sponsors that generate revenue, helping to plan our events, and using new technology to boost our productivity. We strive on consistently evolving, bringing new ideas to the table! ▲ seven years as an Owner or Chief Operating Manager of an Independent Concession Business and be a current member of NICA, at least one State Association, and of one of the following associations: CAFE, IAFE, IFEA, and/or OABA. The applicant must then complete a questionnaire and submit a philosophy of communication and management, along with other requirements. Visit www.nicainc.org/CCE to learn more and apply. ▲ December 2025 NICA News 13

Meet the Candidates Meet the Candidates seeking election to the 2026 NICA Board of Directors. We appreciate their commitment to serve NICA Members with their time, resources, and leadership. Their biography and nomination statements are below, along with each Candidate’s answers to four important questions regarding challenges facing Concessionaires, their solutions to these challenges, and NICA’s future:

Bary Bunts, CCE

The Apple Cart • Ellsworth, OH My journey in the Concession Business began at the age of eight, selling Sno-Cones for my father. Today, I proudly own and operate The Apple Cart, a business he founded in 1955. I assumed full responsibility for daily operations after his untimely passing in 1996. Since then, I have expanded our reach into seven states, including regular participation in four State Fairs.

Before returning full-time to the Family Business, I earned degrees in Electronic Technology and Business Management. I also worked in the Commercial Sound, Lighting, and Video Industry, obtaining my FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License along with several other certifications.

I have had the honor of serving on the NICA East Council for six years, including three years as its Ex-Officio Board Representative. During this time, I’ve also held the positions of Secretary and currently serve as Treasurer. In addition to NICA, I am an active member of the Pennsylvania State Showmen’s Association, IISA, Florida Federation of Fairs, IAFE, OABA, and several model train collecting organizations. With decades of hands-on experience in the Industry and six years of leadership within NICA, I believe I can continue to be an asset to the Board. If elected, I will remain committed to strengthening relationships among our Members, Suppliers, Sister Organizations, Fairs, and Events.

I would be honored to continue serving our community. Thank you for your consideration!

What is the most important challenge facing Concessionaires today?

Keeping our Fairs and Events relevant, engaging, and profitable for all parties involved.

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

By working closely with our Sister Organizations, Carnival Operators, Fairs, and Event Organizers to develop new ideas and collaborative promotions. I believe we must embrace innovation while preserving the traditions that define us—highlighting the uniqueness and diversity of the Food and Entertainment experiences we bring to the public.

Where do you see NICA in five years?

I see NICA with a larger, more engaged membership, an expanded leadership base, and stronger relationships throughout the Industry—built on trust, collaboration, and shared success.

What would you plan to help NICA get there?

I would continue building on the strong foundation already in place by encouraging more members to step into leadership roles and contribute their ideas, skills, and experience. By empowering one another, we strengthen our organization and ensure the longevity and vitality of our Industry.

14 December 2025 NICA News

Ryan Collmer

Meatball Factory • Cape Coral, FL At 16, I joined my girlfriend Nichole’s family, working weekends in their Fair Concession Business, not realizing it would shape my future. What started as a weekend job became a passion as I embraced the community and tradition of Carnival life. After college, Nichole and I married, hit the road to join her parents’ business, and never looked back. Guided by my in-laws’ mentorship and showmanship, we built a thriving business rooted in family and hard work.

Now, with our three daughters, we’re proud to carry on the legacy and share the magic of the Fair for generations to come. Having served my community on NICA’s East Council for many years, I am ready to run for the NICA Board of Directors. Thank you for your support!

What is the most important challenge facing Concessionaires today?

The future is the single most important challenge facing us today. It’s obvious, pricing is driving our future customers out. Employees are pushing us back from succeeding more into our future endeavors.

And lastly, our future generations are not getting the support they need for longevity in this business.

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

I’d start with uniting our other organizations within this Industry. We have a multi-billion dollar Industry as a whole and I believe that we are not using it to our fullest potential. By uniting all of these organizations, we can create a better stronghold that can pave the way for the future.

Where do you see NICA in five years?

I believe that NICA is behind the times and we need to create an organization that is new and innovative. We need one that is attracting the younger generation, making them feel proud to be part of something that will help them into their future success. In five years, I see a totally different direction.

What would you plan to help NICA get there?

Start with IAFE to get the Fair’s understanding what will drive our futures—not only our customers but our younger Concessionaires, too. We can all work together to shape a bright future for all of us.

Vincent Nelson, CCE

Vinnie’s Fine Foods • Kingston, NY My name is Vinnie, and I am a Third-Generation Concessionaire. My family has been in the business since the late 1950s, when my grandfather, Ernest Navarra, started with a pushcart on the streets of New York. Over the years, the business has grown and changed. In 2001, I left my parents’ business and, with my future wife, started Vinnie’s Fine Foods. Now, 24 years later, we have two children who work in our stands. I’m not sure if they will continue in the business, but it has provided a wonderful lifestyle for our family and many great memories. I’ve enjoyed giving back to this Industry, not only with my time, but also through donations.

Linda and I have proudly supported many scholarship programs and sponsorships that help strengthen and grow the Fair Industry we love. I have previously served as Past President and I am now proudly serving as a Trustee of the NICA Foundation. If elected, I would love to serve NICA again as a Director.

December 2025 NICA News 15

What is the most important challenge facing Concessionaires today?

For me, labor remains the biggest challenge. While I am fortunate to have a core group of dedicated employees, there simply aren’t enough of them to meet the growing demands of our business.

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

I would advocate for improvements to the H-2B Labor Program and explore additional initiatives to help Concessionaires recruit and retain qualified workers. This includes collaborating with Industry partners to identify new labor sources and developing programs that make our field more appealing.

Where do you see NICA in five years?

This is a challenging question, as the Industry is evolving rapidly and the cost of doing business continues to rise. While it is difficult to predict exactly where things will be in five years, my hope is that NICA will remain strong, adaptive, and responsive to the needs of its members.

What would you plan to help NICA get there?

Through hard work and dedication, I would strive to grow NICA’s membership, increase funding for scholarships, and strengthen programming at NICA Marketplace and NICA Business Expo. My goal is to ensure these events continue to provide valuable education, networking, and resources to our members.

The NICA Office sent out Election Ballots in November to Voting Members via email. Members without email, non-working emails, or those with a shared address were sent the ballot by mail.

All Election Ballots are due in the NICA Office by December 15th. Thank you for your support!

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Hitting Drives in Raleigh The East Council wants to extend our thanks to the many NICA Members who joined us at our second annual event at Drive Shack on October 14th in Raleigh, NC, prior to the opening of the North Carolina State Fair. Like last year, many of our members used the night as a way to treat their staff in thanks for a long year of hard work, and the fun and excitement circled the event all evening.

Despite hours of gridlock traffic due to a sold out concert, we still had a very successful event and appreciate all who were able to attend! In total, we sold out all of our bays (again) and had an amazing 80 attendees show up to eat, share, and play.

Congratulations to those who won prizes and thank you to the event’s generous sponsors, who contributed to the night’s success. Special thanks to the East Council’s Bary Bunts, CCE, Whitney Fraleigh, Gino Orlandi, and Patty Tessari for their support, as well as the North Carolina State Fair for donating a camping space to raffle off.

Congratulations to Kay Fairlie, KB Foods, who won!

It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces come together to enjoy a night of fun, fellowship,

Rich Olsen, The Apple Cart, Patty and Tony Tessari, Layton’s Concessions, and Ian Habeck, The Apple Cart

Kay Fairlie with one of her prizes

18 December 2025 NICA News

Starting off the event by hitting some practice drives!

and friendly competition. Your energy and spirit truly celebrate the NICA theme of “Together We Can!” The East Council is excited about the positive impact this event continues to have, and we look forward to more opportunities to connect and grow together in the future. Stay tuned for our Save the Date for Bowling Night in West Palm, coming up in late January. Once again, thank you to our members for coming out before the Fair and hitting some drives with us in Raleigh! ▲

Joe Potillo, Past President, swinging his golf club

You never know what you’ll win at a NICA Gathering!

Russ Harrison, CCE, Past President, won the NICA Marketplace Registration

Michelle and Gino Orlandi, East Council, with the rest of the Poppie’s Concessions Family

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20 May December December 2022 NICA 2025 2025 News NICA NICANews News

What an Amazing 4th Event!

Over 48 hours, Commercial Exhibitors, Concessionaires, Trade Show Exhibitors, and Fair Management gathered once again at the Tuscany Suites and Casino in Las Vegas to share ideas, networking, products, and services at NICA Marketplace “Together!” This year’s 4th Annual Event featured a Non-Exclusive, Expanded Trade Show with 49 Exhibitors, 18 Educational Sessions led by Hands-On Event Industry Thought Leaders, 23 Roundtable Topics, 11 “How To” Workshops, and abundant Networking Opportunities where all could appreciate that we are customers of each other and “Together” we share a Fair Guest to serve.

New for 2025, attendees could join a CPR Certification Class on Sunday, sponsored by the NICA Foundation, and a special Sysco-Las Vegas Warehouse Tour on Wednesday, which included lunch and a peek behind the scenes.

Extra special thanks to Sysco, who sponsored Sunday’s Volunteer Dinner as a way to thank the

Mark O’Shea, Noise New Media, delivering the Keynote Address, “Artificial Intelligence is Here to Stay”

people who helped make this event a success.

Monday morning began with Coffee and Tea Service, sponsored by Southern Oregon Food and Beverage, as attendees gathered for the Opening General Session, “Shining Bright!” sponsored by Kim Barr, CCE, Past President, and Rey O’Day, Executive Director. Jay Wells, CCE, President, Kim, and Rey welcomed attendees to the event, introduced NICA Leadership and Benefit Partners, heard greetings from 2025 Scholarship Recipients, and awarded the 2024 Good Neighbor Award to Jennifer Murad on behalf of the Antelope Valley Fair and Event Center. Next, Tina Hollis, Fiserv / Clover, introduced Keynote Speaker Mark O’Shea, Noise New Media. His presentation, “Artificial Intelligence is Here to Stay!” demonstrated how rapidly evolving digital tools can enhance marketing, simplify operations, and unlock opportunities for businesses of every size.

Mark’s examples showed how AI can help Vendors communicate faster, refine messaging, and build visibility across emerging platforms.

Jay Wells, CCE, President, presenting the Good Neighbor Award to Jennifer Jay Wells, CCE, President, giving his Murad, Antelope Valley Fair and Event welcoming speech to a full house Center, during the Opening Session during the Opening General Session

Rey O’Day, Executive Director, with Sysco’s Lynn Schepers, Jared Greg Miller, CCE, Past President, Hanselka, and Jonathan Morrow at reminiscing with NICA’s Executive Sunday’s Volunteer Dinner Director Rey O’Day during her “Riffing”

Rey O’Day, Executive Director, and Jared Hanselka, Sysco, reminding the attendees to address the person who isn’t in the room: “the Fair Guest”

Schedule is subject to change; visit www.nicainc.org/marketplace and check signage for final details.

December 2025 NICA News 21

Jan Gary, CCE and Karen Gary, JK Dots, speaking during “Changing Tastes”

Michael Wedaa, Augmentus, letting the audience in on some important “Corporation and LLC Secret Strategies”

Dennis Larson, CFE, Midwest Council Coordinator, and the Panel in “Keeping Balance for the Fair Guest, Fair, and Vendor”

Justin Agredano, Fuego, stating that “Knowing Your Data Makes a Difference at Your Bottom Line”

Monday’s Educational Sessions, sponsored

by Coca-Cola, Fare Foods, Fiserv / Clover, Hummel Group, Mami Churros and Creamery, Rickey’s Jerky, and Webster Enterprises, dived into topics that touched every corner of the Fair and Event ecosystem. In “Changing Tastes of Fair Guests and Nutritional Diversity,” Moderator Kim Barr, CCE, Pacific Crest Concessions, led Panelists Jan Gary, CCE, and Karen Gary, JK Dots; Jim Swain, Pizza on a Stick; and Vincent Nelson, CCE, Vinnie’s Fine Foods, in a discussion about the rise of bold flavors, social-mediadriven food trends, and the growing demand for allergy-friendly, gluten-free, and dairy-free menu options. Next door, Michael Wedaa, Augmentus, guided attendees through “Corporation and LLC Secret Strategies,” sharing his expertise in corporate structure, tax planning, workforce organization, and long-term financial strategy.

Down the hall, “What’s Working in Commercial Exhibits,” sponsored by Webster Enterprises and moderated by Jeff Thornberry, CCE, Commercial Exhibits Council Coordinator, featured contributions from Carrie Fraley, Sonflower Productions; Lilia Kenneally, Kern County Fair; Tara Nunley, Chapman Fashion International; and James Romer, CFE, Iowa State Fair, who 22 December December2025 2022NICA NICANews News

Lilia Kenneally discussing “What’s Working in Commercial Exhibits” at Kern County Fair

Hannah Falkosky, Eventeny, sharing “How To” make the best use of the popular event-planning platform

examined the latest merchandising, display, and retail engagement trends that are making waves.

As the morning continued, attendees explored sessions such as “Keeping Balance for the Fair Guest, Fair, and Vendor,” moderated by Rey O’Day, Executive Director, who welcomed Don Hillman, Hillman Consulting; Dennis Larson, CFE, Minnesota State Fair (retired); Anne-Alise Pietruska and John Juliano, CFE, Mellowship Entertainment; and Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, Southern Oregon Food and Beverage, to explore how thoughtful layouts, product variety, and Vendor oversight ensure a fair and functional event experience. Meanwhile, in “Knowing Your Data Makes a Difference at Your Bottom Line,” Justin Agredano, Fuego, offered practical instruction and helped attendees understand ways to use ticket turnaround, order averages, sales mix, and profitability metrics to make smarter daily decisions. At the same time, our “How To” Workshops kicked off with Hannah Falkosky, Eventeny, who introduced the Eventeny platform in a workshop designed to help organizers streamline submissions, communication, and application management.

James Judkins, JKJ Workforce, followed this with timely “Labor and Legislation Updates” on

topics like H-2B and P-Visa Programs, filing timelines, and any potential changes in 2026.

After an exciting and educational morning, over 250 attendees gathered for our signature “Chat & Chew” Roundtable Discussions, sponsored by gocashless and the San Mateo County Fair. Moderators Rachael Lough, CFE, Ohio State Fair, and Donna Ruhm, San Diego County Fair (retired), helped guide conversations across 23 rotating tables covering topics as varied as Multiyear Agreements, Sustainability, TikTok/Instagram Strategies, Labor Recruitment, Combo Meals, and Payment Options. With Box Lunches in hand, participants cycled through multiple discussions, trading ideas, challenges, and practices that will inspire future solutions.

Monday afternoon continued with sessions like “Growing Your Business from One to Many,” moderated by Sandy Class, CCE, Tavern at the Park, with Panelists Lenny Freund, Freund Family Foods; David Webster, Webster Enterprises; and Nate Janousek, Fun Biz Concessions, who offered real-world stories about scaling operations. In “Tools That Make Us More Successful,” Moderator Jay Wells, CCE, Wells Concessions, invited Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, CCE, The Original Australian Battered Potatoes;

John Hanus, Entegra; Tina Hollis, Fiserv/Clover; and Nate Romig, Cellular Sales, to demonstrate innovations in line control, buying programs, POS tools, and connectivity solutions like Starlink.

“Being Found by the Fair and the Fairgoer,” led

by Moderator Amanda Schlatre, CFE, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, with Panelists Whitney Fraleigh, Fluffy’s Hand Cut Donuts; Nathan Vandewarker, Maverick Concepts; Denise Warner, Happy Cheeks Face Painting; and Maria Zaffuto, Fairology, offered strategies for strengthening business visibility and leveraging promotions, influencers, and social media. “Attracting, Converting and Delighting Guests,” led by Justin Prestidge, Custom Trailer Pros, taught attendees that business success is not a guessing game—it is intentional— and it all starts with an idea that can be built upon over time. Next, “The Practicality of AI: How To Use ChatGPT” featured Moderator Bary Bunts, CCE, The Apple Cart, and Panelists Ryan Rickey, Rickey’s Jerky; Alan Harrington, We Have Your Flag; and Morgan Stremmel, CCE, Top Notch Concessions. They have all utilized AI in both their professional and private lives to great success and passed on some of that knowledge to the group. Meanwhile, “A Conversation with

James Judkins, JKJ Workforce, providing “Labor and Legislation Updates”

Roundtable Discussion Moderators Rachael Lough, CFE, Ohio State NICA Marketplace attendees discussing 23 Fair, and Donna Ruhm, San Diego important and timely topics during the County Fair (retired) “Chat & Chew” Roundtable Discussions

Lenny Freund, Freund Family Foods, on “Growing Your Business from One to Many”

Whitney Fraleigh, Fluffy’s, relating John Hanus, Entegra, highlighting NICA Benefits her experience in “Being Found by during “Tools That Make Us More Successful” the Fair and the Fairgoer” December 2025 2022 NICA News 23

Justin Prestidge, Custom Trailer Pros, advising on “Attracting, Converting, and Delighting Guests”

Ryan Rickey, Rickey’s Jerky, doing his part in “The Practicality of AI”

Dan Mourning, New Mexico State Fair, having “A Conversation” with James Romer, Iowa State Fair, and Gene Cassidy, CFE, The Big E, hosted by Pam Simon, CFE, Minnesota State Fair

The NICA Marketplace Trade Show “Ticket” Cutting: Bary Bunts, CCE, Treasurer; Mickey Venegas, CCE, Director; Stacey Pittroff-Barona, 1st Vice President; Kim Barr, CCE, Past President; Jay Wells, CCE, President; Brandy Arredondo, CCE, Director; Sandy Class, CCE, Director; Phil Delahoyde, Director; and Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, Director

A view of the packed NICA Marketplace Trade Show Floor, where Audrey Poole with her Fare Foods Booth Staff attendees enjoyed its festive décor, a Happy Hour, a “Meet, Greet including Jeff Nelson, Doug Morgenstern, Ron & Eat” Lunch, and expanded options for networking opportunities Smith, and Marsha Morgenstern

Patrick Ward, Drawn Together, drew caricatures for many Trade Show Ben Turner and Christopher Colovos, attendees, like Kelly Dohse and Carrie Edward Don, speaking with NICA Obradovich, Wisconsin State Fair Member Kristine Richie, Mary Lou’s

24 December 2025 NICA News

Laudia Dennis, Yambala Designs, showcasing her beautiful jewelry

Gene Cassidy, CFE; Dan Mourning; and James Romer, CFE,” hosted by Pam Simon, CFE, Minnesota State Fair, treated attendees to insights from seasoned Fair leaders on vision, legacy, and philosophies that anchor successful event management. Not to mention a few laughs!

Monday evening’s NICA Marketplace Trade Show and Happy Hour Reception, sponsored by Berk Concession Supply, Cellular Sales, Entegra, JKJ Workforce, and Performance Foodservice, opened with a “Ticket” Ribbon Cutting that welcomed attendees to an energetic Trade Show Floor of 49 Exhibitors. With tasty hors d’oeuvres in an expanded layout and familiar faces around every corner, the Trade Show Floor’s design encouraged networking, exploration, and conversation with others in the Industry.

Tuesday’s Educational Sessions were sponsored by Fare Foods, Hummel Group, Schantz / Craftsmen, and Webster Enterprises.

The morning opened with a Keynote from Dr. Ryan Davis, Mind Health Institute, whose presentation on “Maintaining Our Mental Health,” delivered via Zoom, on behalf of the Grayson Murray Foundation, emphasized the importance of emotional resilience and wellbeing in a highdemand Industry. His 11 Lessons resonated

Vincent Nelson, CCE, Past President, remembering Jessica Gottsche and Linda Frisco during their tribute

Pam Simon, CFE, Minnesota State Fair, teaching the “Art of Selling” with the help of her guests Borjan and Tina

deeply and set a reflective tone for the day.

Following the Keynote, the session paused for an emotional tribute to Linda Frisco and Jessica Gottsche, led by Vincent Nelson, CCE, Past President, honoring their contributions to NICA and acknowledging the lasting imprint they left on the organization. John Juliano, CFE, Gene Cassidy, CFE, Rey O’Day, and Whitney Fraleigh were among the many who shared their memories of these beloved Staff Members.

After the tribute, attendees transitioned into the “Making Connections” General Session, sponsored by Sysco. This interactive experience seated attendees in Colleague Thought Groups, split into Fair Staff, Food and Beverage Vendors, and Commercial Exhibitors, to explore shared challenges and discuss emerging Industry needs in a roundtable setup. Roundtable Moderator Rey O’Day, Executive Director, guided a fruitful discussion, based on Industry-related questions.

Afterwards, the group split for some morning breakout sessions. Rachael Lough, CFE, Ohio Expo Center and State Fairgrounds, presented the “IAFE Economic Impact Report Summary,” offering insight into the scale and influence of Fairs across the nation. At the same time on the Trade Show Floor, “Flash=Cash!” brought

Colleague Thought Groups pondering the answers to important Industry questions with Fair Management, Commercial Exhibitors, and Food and Beverage Concessionaires

Nick White, CCE, White’s Concessions, helping others find their public speaking style

Rachael Lough, CFE, Ohio State Fair, giving the “IAFE Impact Report Summary”

Nathan Vandewarker, Carrie Hayes, Performance Director, speaking Foodservice, giving a great during the “Dollars and “How To” on signing up $ense” Symposium December 2025 NICA News 25

Jay Wells, CCE, President, Rey O’Day, Executive Director, and Stacey Pittroff- Rachael Lough, CFE, Ohio Barona, CCE, 1st Vice President, State Fair, accepting the NICA awarded six attendees with the honor of sharing a laugh in the Closing Session Good Neighbor Award Certified Concessionaire Executive—Congrats!

Jeff Thornberry, CCE, Commercial Council Coordinator, delivering his Keynote, “Unshakable”

Jay Wells, CCE, President, Stacey Pittroff-Barona, CCE, 1st Vice President, and Rey O’Day, Executive Director, Jay Wells, CCE and Stacey with Super Bowl Experience Winner Horst Schacht, Pittroff-Barona, CCE closing German Specialty Foods—Congratulations Horst! out the event with a toast

Moderator Jeff Thornberry, CCE, together with Panelists Scott Norton, OCC Signs, and Jeff Stevens, Action Lighting, for a sensory-rich look at how Vendors can stand out through lighting, graphics, movement, and sensory engagement.

The “Meet, Greet & Eat” Trade Show Lunch followed, allowing attendees to visit Exhibitors, strengthen Vendor relationships, and recharge.

“How To” Workshops were next, with “How to Sign Up” featuring Jared Hanselka, Sysco, Carrie Hayes, Performance Foodservice, and Audrey Poole, Fare Foods; “How to Purchase a Concession Trailer,” with Jason Miller, Schantz / Craftsmen; “How to Sell” with Pam Simon, CFE, Minnesota State Fair, Borjan Jaksic, Boki Food Sales, and Tina Butler, X M Beauty; and “How to Find Your Style of Public Speaking,” with Nick White, CCE, White’s Concessions.

The “Dollars & $ense” Symposium, moderated by Rey O’Day, Executive Director, brought everyone back into the same room as they shared ideas in a fast-paced format.

The session encouraged candid dialogue and creative thinking. Maybe even a few tears!

The Closing General Session, sponsored by Jay Wells, CCE, President, and Stacey PittroffBarona, CCE, 1st Vice President, offered a celebratory finish to Marketplace. Greetings 26 December 2025 NICA News

from additional 2025 Scholarship Recipients kicked off the session, followed by a recognition of Industry accomplishments. The 2025 Good Neighbor Award was presented to Rachael Lough, CFE, on behalf of the Ohio Expo Center and State Fairgrounds, and NICA Certified Concessionaire Executives were acknowledged: Beverly George, CCE, Horst Schacht, CCE, Tyler Schacht, CCE, Kevin Peck, CCE, Mickey Venegas, CCE, and Gus Whicheloe, CCE. Afterwards, the Keynote, “Unshakable: Building Resilience in Times of Change,” was delivered

by Jeff Thornberry, CCE, reminding everyone of the importance of adaptability in an increasingly unpredictable world. The crowd then awaited the announcement of the Free Sweepstakes Winners and Super Bowl Experience Drawing.

Congratulations to our winners! To conclude, Jay Wells, CCE and Stacey Pittroff-Barona, CCE led a Champagne Toast, sponsored by Giant Ride and The Original Australian Battered Potatoes, inviting all to enjoy festive bites and fellowship to close out the Industry Excellence Reception.

In 48 hours our attendees networked with colleagues, discussed practical solutions, enjoyed storytelling, and returned enriched.

Join us November 8-11, 2026 at the next NICA Marketplace, where we’ll be “Together!” again. ▲

Hearing from a First-Timer Convention Attendee Tina Butler, X M Beauty LLC My first time attending NICA Marketplace was honestly such an amazing experience. I still can’t believe I didn’t know about NICA until now, because if I had, I would’ve absolutely gone on my own. I love learning and being around other Business Owners who are just as passionate as I am, and this convention was exactly that.

From the very beginning, everyone was so kind and welcoming. I felt comfortable right away, which meant a lot to me as a First-Timer. Everything was incredibly organized and thoughtfully planned out. The Fair Managers were wonderful, the Keynote Speakers were inspiring, and every Educational Session I attended had something useful to take away.

One of my favorite moments from the entire week was the Lunch Roundtables. Sitting with other Vendors and Fair Managers, introducing ourselves, sharing stories, and learning new things from each other was so special. I also really enjoyed the open discussions where we talked about what changes we’d love to see at Fairs and what traditions should

stay the same. Everyone had a chance to speak, and it felt like every voice truly mattered. I left those conversations feeling encouraged and appreciated.

As someone who shares my entire Vendor journey on YouTube, I loved hearing how often social media came up in the classes. That’s the area where I thrive, and it made me excited to keep growing and helping others through my content.

I have over 7,000 people in my online community who watch my behind-the-scenes Fair videos, with many of them Vendors looking for guidance and inspiration. Fun fact: that’s actually how I found out about NICA in the first place! Pam Simon, CFE from the Minnesota State Fair reached out after seeing one of my videos, which still blows my mind.

I learned so much throughout the conference, from better lighting and booth displays to helpful financial tips, and I can’t wait to put everything into practice. I left feeling motivated, supported, and really grateful to have been a part of it. I will most definitely be back next year, and I’ve already convinced a few Vendor friends to come with me. I took lots of pictures too, and I’m sending those over!

Thank you again for the opportunity. This experience meant so much to me, and I’m really excited for what’s ahead. Much love! ▲

First-Timer Tina Butler meeting up at NICA Marketplace with Barbi Linde, Barbi Has Your Gator, Borjan Jaksic, Boki Food Service, Pam Simon, CFE, Minnesota State Fair, and Jeff Thornberry, CCE, NICA Commercial Exhibits Council Coordinator

Have you always wanted to attend a NICA Convention? The NICA Foundation is here to help get you there! Apply today for the First Timer’s Convention Scholarship, which offers an opportunity for NICA Members to attend a NICA Convention in 2026. Learn more and apply online at nicainc.org/first-timers.

December 2025 NICA News 27

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Let Gold Medal’s Experience Take Your Business to the Next Level The year was 1931. With just $2,000 and the strong work ethic of founder, David C. Evans, Gold Medal was born. The first product sold with the Gold Medal name was a simple drink concentrate. In the years that followed, the business evolved into a full line of concession equipment and supplies including popcorn, cotton candy, Sno-Kones®, and much more.

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Maintaining Our Mental Health 11 LESSONS TO KEEP YOURSELF GROUNDED Dr. Ryan Davis, Mind Health Institute My name is Dr. Ryan Davis, and I’m a psychiatrist and a mental performance coach. Most of my work is with professional athletes— especially golfers—and with executives in high-stress, highperformance worlds. When I was invited to speak with you at NICA Marketplace, I started thinking about your lives: long hours, travel, pressure, and the need to stay sharp and “on” no matter what’s happening around you. You are the people who make the magic happen behind the lights, the smells, and the sounds that so many families look forward to every year. When the lines are steady, the crew’s clicking, the equipment behaves, and the rhythm just feels right—life couldn’t be much sweeter.

I realized—you have way more in common with PGA Tour professionals than most people might think. Both of you travel constantly, depend on your teams, perform under pressure, and operate in public in different locations. Both of you know that the perfect week isn’t one where nothing goes wrong—it’s the one where everything runs smoothly and you can manage the challenges you face head on. In my work with athletes, the first month is all about building awareness, grounding, and mental and physical habits, like a pre-season training camp for the mind. What follows are 11 lessons, adapted to your life on and off the Fairgrounds.

Lesson 1: The High-Adrenaline World Let’s start with the obvious—your world runs hot. You’re on the move constantly, simultaneously dealing with weather, customers, staff, deadlines, noise, and movement—and there’s almost never an “off” switch. It’s high-adrenaline, high-output, and when it’s going well—it’s exhilarating. That high output is part of why so many of you love and stay in this profession.

But then comes the off-season, and suddenly things get quiet—maybe too quiet. That discomfort is what I call the adrenaline hangover: your brain

and body trying to reset after months in “go mode.”

That’s not weakness—that’s wiring. Your body’s trying to reset. Accept that doing nothing is doing something and schedule your reset days. Your mental system needs maintenance just as much as your equipment, your body, and your crew.

When you take care of the Operator, everything else runs smoother.

Lesson 2: Pay Yourself First—With Time The same way financial advisors say, “Pay yourself first,” I tell my athletes, and now you, to do the same with your time. If you don’t intentionally carve out time for yourself at the start of your day or week, the world will spend it for you.

Ten quiet minutes in the morning. One small weekly ritual that belongs only to you. A boundary you protect. Even a lucky trinket you clasp to ground yourself.

Treat your time like your best inventory: limited, valuable, and worth protecting. When you pay yourself first, everything else—patience, focus, relationships—improves.

Lesson 3: The Mental Dashboard Your mental health has a dashboard, and the warning lights are real: • • • •

Emotional: irritability, numbness Physical: headaches, tension, poor sleep Behavioral: zoning out, drinking more Social: withdrawing, losing interest

Don’t ignore those lights. And don’t ignore them in others. Sometimes a simple, “Hey, are you good?” is exactly the check-in someone needs.

Lesson 4: Perfection vs. Strong Effort Perfection is a moving target—and a dangerous one. It creates pressure and burnout.

What I teach is this: You’re not aiming for perfect.

You’re aiming for consistent. Consistency is freedom. Strong effort, repeated over time, will always outperform perfection.

Lesson 5: Staying Grounded on the Road I work with athletes on creating anchors— small, consistent actions that remind them who December 2025 NICA News 29

they are no matter where they are. Your anchors might include:

by accident. Satisfaction comes from balance by design.

• • • •

Lesson 10: Purpose & SMART Goals

Morning coffee Nighttime prayer or gratitude A consistent call home A walk around the grounds before gates open

Pair them with micro-recoveries throughout the day—a breath, a laugh, a moment outside. The goal isn’t to avoid stress. It’s to recover faster.

Lesson 6: A Healthy Body for a Healthy Mind Your brain rides around in your body. If your body is worn down, your mind will struggle.

• • •

Sleep is a secret weapon.

Movement boosts mood and resilience.

Hydration and nutrition make a bigger difference than people realize.

This isn’t about perfection—just consistent, intentional care.

Lesson 7: The Power of Vocabulary Words matter. Not just the ones we say out loud, but the ones we say internally. The language you use can change how you feel about your day: • • •

“I need to” feels heavy.

“I want to” feels purposeful.

“I choose to” feels empowered.

Small shifts change everything, because the story you tell yourself is the one you end up believing.

Lesson 8: Finding Rhythm at Home When you come off the road, stillness can feel uncomfortable. That restlessness is your nervous system recalibrating.

• • •

Don’t call it “doing nothing.” Call it recovery.

Do something non-productive on purpose.

Refill the tank.

The goal is rhythm, not balance: in-season, be all in; at home, be present.

Lesson 9: Balance by Design, Not by Default Real life doesn’t divide into equal slices. Some weeks, work takes 90%. Other weeks, family or personal care must lead. The key is intentionality —designing how your time is spent; not letting life decide for you. Stress comes from imbalance 30 December 2025 NICA News

When we lose connection to our “why,” we fall into constant motion without progress—the hedonic treadmill. SMART goals bring direction and meaning: • • • • •

Specific Measurable Achievable Relevant Time-bound

Purpose gives your energy a destination.

Lesson 11: Relationships & Perspective Healthy relationships—whether it’s your partner, kids, or coworkers—are the ultimate stabilizers.

The idea that relationships should be 50/50 is a trap. Sometimes it’s 99/1, and sometimes it’s 30/70. What matters is long-term commitment, not momentary equality. We also tend to feel our own effort more than we see others’. Before assuming imbalance, pause and ask: “Could they be giving in ways I’m not seeing?” That shift builds empathy, trust, and stronger relationships.

Bringing It All Together Everything I shared—grounding, awareness, recovery, intentional balance, connection—supports what I call mental performance culture. You already know how to keep your operations running smoothly. This is about keeping your people, including yourself, running smoothly too.

At the close of each coaching session, I give homework. Here’s yours: 1. Each month: Check in with yourself. What are your percentages and do you like them?

2. Each week: Check in with someone else.

3. Each day: Do something that grounds you in your personal “why.”

Those little moments are how “Together We Can!” becomes more than a slogan—it becomes a way of living. When your mind’s steady, your crew’s connected, and your Fair is running smooth—that’s success. Not just in sales, not just in numbers, but in life. You bring joy to thousands each year!

Just make sure you’re taking care of the people who make that happen, starting with yourself, and remember, “Together We Can!” ▲

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32 December 2025 NICA News

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From the Camera Roll

Relaxing at Ocean Sales after a hard day: Beverly George, CCE, Mickey’s Massive Burritos, Sandy Class, CCE, Secretary, and Stacey Pittroff-Barona, CCE, 1st Vice President

Gene Cassidy, CFE, The Big E, with Jay Wells, CCE, President

Kristen Whicheloe, CCE, Southern Oregon Food & Beverage, and Alan Barr, CCE, Pacific Crest Concessions

Jay Wells, CCE, President, Dennis Larson, CFE, Midwest Council Coordinator, Nick Taulelle, Taulelle Concessions, and Pam Simon, CFE, Minnesota State Fair, representing the “Power of the Midwest” at the Volunteer Dinner

Jacqueline Bradbury, CCE, Director, modeling one of the many food-related costumes available at the Selfie Station

Bary Bunts, CCE, Treasurer, with Letrice Midgett, North Carolina State Fair, and Rachael Lough, CFE, Ohio State Fair, during the Trade Show

NICA Foundation Donors Larry McConnell, CCE and James McConnell, Foundation Trustee, with their recent article in November’s NICA News

Jesse Willard, NICA’s Communications Manager, trying to find the perfect shot during the convention

Have you attended a NICA-related event or have a story to tell? Send your photos or coverage to communications@nicainc.org or post on NICA’s Social Media Accounts or NICA Live!

34 December 2025 NICA News

“Renewals” continued from page 4 ►► Janet Cox

Red Barn Elephant Ears Kewanna, IN (2005)

Jeremy Crutchfield

Crutchfield Concessions Brookston, TX (2023)

Radley Crutchfield

Crutchfield Concessions Brookston, TX (2023)

Yolanda Davis

Stitching Dreams Apple Valley, CA (2023)

Michael Davis

Toucan Enterprises Apple Valley, CA (2012)

Eddie Dearman

Classy Caboose Stephens City, VA (2010)

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

Steven Jankiewicz Event Catering, Inc. Solvay, NY (2019)

Norman Keene

Paulette’s Food Service Pinckneyville, IL (2003)

Dan Keough

North Country Specialty Foods, Inc. Milton, VT (2017)

Laurie Keough

North Country Specialty Foods, Inc. Colchester, VT (2017)

Mike Kinnear

Dawghouse Concessions Des Moines, IA (2000)

Alissa Leavitt

Golden Wheel Amusements Chugiak, AK (2024)

Jeff Langlois

Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, CCE

The Langlois Company Mira Loma, CA (2014)

The Original Australian Battered Potatoes, LLC Balboa, CA (2007)

Dottie Maile

Billy Fickling Sr.

Carole Marcus

Maile & Son, Inc. Mesa, AZ (2004)

McKinney Food Services Hughes Springs, TX (1993)

John Ford µ

Vic Marcus Concessions Hemet, CA (2002)

Nathan Marcus

Ford Foods English, IN (1993)

West Coast Weenies Irvine, CA (2022)

Dennis Fraleigh µ

F & W Concessions, Inc. Hobe Sound, FL (1993)

Larry Gaffey

Larry McConnell, CCE µ McConnell Concessions Indianola, IA (1993)

Shane McGrath

Walworth County Fair Elkhorn, WI (2000)

Jennifer Giordano, CCE C & C Concessions, Inc. La Verne, CA (2007)

Cheryle Hartley

Carolina Classic Fair Winston-Salem, NC (1997)

Royal Agricultural Society of NSW / Sydney Royal Easter Show Balboa, CA (2021)

Staci McGrew

Fun Times Inc. Ukiah, CA (2019)

Gentry Miller

John Henninger

Josephine’s Glazed Doughnuts North Liberty, IN (2010)

Collette Ingalls

Mike Neal

Boone County Fair Belvidere, IL (2017) atVenu San Clemente, CA (2024)

Jive Turkey’s, LLC Greensboro, NC (2023)

Karen Nicklas

Renate Skinner

James O’Brien

Alicia Soto

Heidi Ortiz µ

Randy Stephenson

Lisa Patterson

Steve Sweetin

The Great Frederick Fair Inc. Frederick, MD (2018) Topsfield Fair Topsfield, MA (1995) Ventura County Fair Ventura, CA (1993) Paul’s Products / Fairtime Fudge Garden Valley, CA (2023)

Missy Pfile

Skinner’s Amusements Harvard, IL (1998) Soto’s Concessions Pico Rivera, CA (2023) Alabama National Fair Montgomery, AL (1994) Kim-Laine Fun Foods, LLC Springfield, MO (1995)

Tracy Thomas

CC Foods Garrettsville, OH (2009)

Sweet and Salty Concessions, LLC Wilmington, NC (2000)

Fred Pittroff

Anne Thompson

Giant Ride, Inc. Balboa, CA (1995)

Deborah Powers

Carmel Dyer Concessions P/L Balboa, CA (2021)

Jerry Price µ

Pristine Systems, Inc. St George, UT (2012)

Lynette Rawlings

Hopkins Food Service, Inc. Thomasville, GA (2007)

Nancy Lou Rex µ

Urick Concessions, LLC Carmel, IN (2001)

Debbie’s Concessions, LLC Lumberton, NC (1994) Fiske Concessions, Inc. Brooksville, FL (1993) Rawlings Concessions Atwater, CA (2000)

Jeff Thornberry, CCE

Jay Tyson

Monica Urick

The Sandwich Fair Association, Inc. Sandwich, IL (1993)

Brady Waite

Kyle Robinson µ

Chris Walden

Jay Rounds

Matt Wallsmith

Florida Strawberry Festival Plant City, FL (1993) Jake’s Foods LLC Goshen, IN (2017)

Michael Salsburg

Excalibur Concessions Circleville, OH (2024)

GoCashless Corp Napa, CA (2009) Walden Concessions Mattoon, IL (2017) South Florida Fair & Palm Beach County Expositions, Inc. West Palm Beach, FL (2012)

Rhonda Ward

Brad Schroder µ

Collier County Agricultural Fair & Exposition Naples, FL (2016)

Josh Seivers

Denise Warner

Shiawassee County Fair

Alisa Winschel

Schroder Concessions, Inc. Faribault, MN (1993) Three Rivers Concessions, LLC Grove City, PA (2008) Shiawassee County Fair Corunna, MI (2010)

µ 1993-2005

Glittery LLC / Happy Cheeks Face Painting Cameron Park, CA (2023) Winschel Concessions Albion, PA (2021)

2006-2010 2011-2015 2016-2024

Thank you to our 90 Renewal Members for your continued support! “Together We Can!”

December 2025 NICA News 35

Member Classifieds Gourmet Nut Roasting Business For Sale Own a Gourmet Nut Roasting Business for sale so profitable over just a few months that you could even take a full-time or part-time operation. This uniquely profitable franchise opportunity delivers freshly roasted, cinnamonglazed almonds, cashews, and pecans, offering a veganfriendly and gluten-free snack that’s as health-conscious as it is indulgent. It’s as easy as Roast, Package, Sell!

With over 60 successful events since 2019 and an average profit margin of 34%, this Food Business For Sale has demonstrated consistent financial performance— even the lowest-yielding event posted a 19% profit.

Most recent events have topped 40-60%+ margins, driven by the irresistible aroma of on-site roasted nuts, warm sampling, and an engaging branded setup that doubles as organic marketing. The operation is lean, easy to manage, and backed by excellent training, no debt, and clean books. Included are three licenses, though only one has been in active use—leaving enormous untapped growth potential. This fully equipped business includes a Commercial Cart, a Tent, a Kiosk, Branded Materials, Trailers, and all the equipment necessary for two simultaneous operations. Operate year-round or take time off as you wish.

There are no territorial restrictions nationwide (except Utah), and franchisee presence in Colorado offers room to expand at Farmers Markets, major Festivals, Sports Events, performing venues like Red Rocks, and even Denver International Airport (DIA). The US Snack Food Industry is surging toward $156B by 2030, with nuts and plant-based options leading the charge. The Gourmet Nut Roasting Business stands out in the health-forward space, offering a clean-label, gourmet product that resonates with today’s consumers. The Colorado Events Market alone hosts over 3,500 opportunities annually.

Own a turnkey opportunity with strong cash flow, a premium brand, and a fun, flexible lifestyle!

Ideal for individuals or families seeking freedom, financial gain, and community engagement. Price is $98,000. If interested, contact Allison at allison@wesellrestaurants.com or (903) 806-4124. ▲

Established Dippin’ Dots Mobile Franchise Business For Sale #1 and Original Frozen Beaded Ice Cream, Dippin’ Dots, based in San Diego area but relocatable. Customers include Fairs and Southern California Retail and Wholesale Accounts including fundraising and catering. Contact (760) 801-2301 or jkdots@hotmail.com for more information. ▲

Attention Members!

Do you need our help?

Are you a Concessionaire or Vendor who needs to sell their business or equipment? Alternatively, is your Fair in search of the next big thing, a unique item, or even some all-around help for your Fair in Concessions or Straight Sales? We can help!

Ads start at only $25! Contact communications@nicainc.org or (813) 530-4750 to learn more!

36 December 2025 NICA News

2025 Membership Contest Leaderboard* Referrals—General Membership

Family Owned & Operated Serving Our Customers Since 1904

Proudly

serving the concessions

industry with

their produce needs.

Cameron Murray....................................................................4 Lorie Oberst............................................................................2 German Arteaga.....................................................................1 Isabella Barona......................................................................1 Rod Beach..............................................................................1 Brad Bennett...........................................................................1 Savannah Bradbury, CCE.......................................................1 Lupita Carrasco......................................................................1 Greg Chiecko, CFE..................................................................1 Melanie Conklin......................................................................1 Brandi Ebner...........................................................................1 George Atisdakos...................................................................1 Kelly Grout..............................................................................1 Becky Harmon........................................................................1 Cary Hester.............................................................................1 Micheal Issa...........................................................................1 Melanie Linnear......................................................................1 Rachael Lough, CFE...............................................................1 Mike Neal................................................................................1 Chris Pickering.......................................................................1 Jeff Ross, CCE........................................................................1 Isaac Rousso..........................................................................1 Jim Swain...............................................................................1 George Wandrey, Jr................................................................1

Referrals—Regional Councils Albert Valadez........................................................................4 Nick White, CCE......................................................................4 Gigi Horowitz, CCE.................................................................2 Kevin Peck, CCE.....................................................................2 Jodi Dirksen............................................................................1 Ryan Hagy...............................................................................1 Chad Kolar..............................................................................1 Matt Ribar...............................................................................1 Patty Tessari...........................................................................1 Denise Warner........................................................................1 Nate Wells, CCE......................................................................1 Gus Whicheloe, CCE...............................................................1

Referrals—Board of Directors Bary Bunts, CCE.....................................................................4 Jay Wells, CCE........................................................................4 Dan Lusenhop........................................................................3 Trent Wilkes............................................................................3 Daryl Whicheloe, CCE.............................................................3 Michelle Allen, CCE................................................................1

Referrals—Foundation James McConnell..................................................................2 Ron Smith...............................................................................2 Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, CCE......................................................1 Kathy Ross, CCE.....................................................................1

Distributed Through Fare Foods Call 800-651-1601 For More Information www.farefoods.com *Referral Listing as of 10/31/25. See back cover for more information, rules, and prizes.

December 2025 NICA News 37

Let’s get you moving in the right direction

Book a free consultation

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EZYTax

National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc.

For NICA Office Use Only

Address: 1043 E. Brandon Blvd. Brandon, FL 33511 Phone: (813) 438-8926 • Fax: (813) 803-8460 Email: nica@nicainc.org • Website: www.nicainc.org

Date: #: q Member Renewal

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION Primary Member

First Name:

Last Name:

Primary Phone / Cell :

Email :

Age Range: q 20-35 q 36-50 q 51-70 q 71+ q Other:

NICA News Magazine: q Mail q Email Referred by :

Additional Member First Name:

Last Name:

Primary Phone / Cell :

Email :

Age Range: q 20-35 q 36-50 q 51-70 q 71+ q Other:

NICA News Magazine: q Mail q Email Referred by :

Business

Name:

Website:

Mailing Address:

City :

State:

Zip:

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEES BUSINESS DESCRIPTION

REGULAR MEMBERSHIP Active / Retired Independent Concessionaires and Employees.

q

Regular Member...........................................................$175

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

q Additional Member.......................................................$125 q Employee Member..........................................................$75 q Retired Member..............................................................$50 THREE-YEAR REGULAR MEMBERSHIP PROMOTION* Save $75 by prepaying for three years (only $150 per year).

q

Regular Member...........................................................$450

REGULAR MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES Check one category below that best describes your business.

q

Commercial Exhibitors / Retail q

Food / Beverage

q

Attractions / Entertainment

Games

q

Guest Services

q

ROUND UP WITH A $25 NICA FOUNDATION DONATION Give the gift of education today by rounding up your total by $25. Your contribution directly supports scholarships for academic and vocational students, first-time convention attendees at NICA events, and more!

q

Donate $25 q

Donate Other Amount:

PAYMENT

GENERAL ROUTING INFORMATION

q

Cash q

Check q

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List all states / provinces where you conduct your business.

q

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Discover

Credit Card #: Security Code: ACCIDENTAL DEATH & DISMEMBERMENT INSURANCE NICA-sponsored $10,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance is provided to Regular and Additional Members.

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

q

Association...................................................................$175

q

Fair / Festival / Event....................................................$175

q

Manufacturer / Distributor / Supplier..........................$175

q

Carnival / Circus...........................................................$175

q

Insurance / Special Services.......................................$175

* Promotion valid through December 31, 2025.

Expiration Date:

TOTAL: q I authorize NICA to charge the agreed amount listed above to my credit card using the provided payment information. I agree to pay in accordance with the issuing bank’s cardholder agreement.

AUTOMATIC RENEWAL OPTION q I authorize NICA to process automatic renewal payments for my membership using the credit card information above. I agree to notify NICA with any changes to my payment information or my intent to cancel automatic payments before my next renewal date.

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National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc. 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 Time Sensitive Mail • December 2025 Issue