December 2018 NICA News by NICA Inc.

Contents • December 2018 Articles & Features 04 This Month’s New & Renewal Members 05 President’s Message 05 Director’s Voice 07 Card’s Corner 07 Member Benefits Spotlight 08 Association Announcements 16 Thoughts from a CCE 17 Celebrating the Industry 18 Council Updates 2018: Year in Review 20 A Tale of Two Tournaments 23 Getting to Know Your Regional Council Members

24 A Blast From the Past 26 Outside the Fair

Events & Contests 10 NICA Business Expo & Fare Foods 2019 Food Show Hotel, Schedule & Sponsorship Information 29 4th Annual Fair Partners Shootout 30 WFA Convention Preview 33 Coca-Cola Membership Contest 34 2018-19 Events Calendar

AdvertiSers 16 Allied Specialty Insurance 34 Berk Concession Supply 02 Coca-Cola 28 Fanestil Meats 09 Fare Foods 32 Fontanini Italian Meats 33 Haas & Wilkerson Insurance 22 Heinkel’s Packing Company

09 Hummel Group Insurance 22 JKJ Workforce 28 K&K Insurance 31 Mr. G’s Quality Cut Meats 25 Source1 Purchasing 06 Swanel Beverage 27 The Best Around Trailer Shells 32 WNA Specialty Cups

Dedicated to strengthening relationships with the Fair, Festival, and Special Events Industries through effective communication, education, benefits, leadership, and solutions The National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc. is a Florida Corporation with an Editorial and General Office located at 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 • 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 © 1993-2018 NICA, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Merry Christmas from all of us at NICA! December 2018 NICA News

This Month’s Newest Members! Ronda DeGiorgio Rooster’s Eatery Boise, ID

Katie Hart

Macon, GA’s International Cherry Blossom Fest Macon, GA

Robert Holmes

Spectrum Weather and Specialty Insurance, Inc. Liberty, MO

Thomas Leonard

Hawaiian Shave Ice Vancouver, WA

Kevin Patterson

Nicole Stanner

Tyler Schacht

Douglas Thomas

Red Barn Productions Navato, CA TSE Events & Entertainment, Inc. Bennett, CO

Fair St Louis Foundation Saint Louis, MO Utter Delights, Inc. Canastota, NY

Welcome to all 8 of our New Members! See page 33 for the 2018 Coca-Cola Membership Contest. “Together We Can!”

This Month’s Member Renewals Brenda Ames Ames Concessions Nampa, ID (2016)

Doug Dills Dills Concessions Venice, FL (2004)

Dennis Lilly Triple ‘L’ Concession Cool Ridge, WV (1997)

Carol Sanders B & J Concessions Peoria, AZ (2014)

Jeff Ames Ames Concessions Nampa, ID (2016)

Brian Fairlie KB Foods Brandon, FL (2012)

Ryan Long L & L Concessions, Inc. La Verne, CA (2007)

Dan Sharp Washington State Fair Puyallup, WA (2000)

Kevin Bechler Bechler Family Concessions Dundee, MI (1998)

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

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

Jim Sinclair Minnesota State Fair St.Paul, MN (1993)

Michael Broad Broad Concessions Boynton Beach, FL (1994)

John Gray Focus Photography Cornville, AZ (2008)

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

Jack Sturgeon Jack’s Shack N. Ft. Myers, FL (2000)

Julie Broetsky Broetsky Foods, Inc. Fountain Hills, AZ (1995)

Paul Hansen Hansen’s Festival Concessions Evansville, MN (2011)

Gentry Miller Miller & Co. North Liberty, IN (2010)

Steve Taft Taft’s Mr. Ribeye Rochester, IL (2003)

Vincent Nelson Vinnie’s Fine Foods Kingston, NY (2012)

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

Thomas Carnahan Carnahan Concessions Stormville, NY (2003) Judy Carrico Alameda County Fair Pleasanton, CA (2014) Dale Coleman La County Fair/Fairplex Pomona, CA (2017) Robert Commerford R.W. Commerford & Sons Goshen, CT (2006) Tim Commerford R.W. Commerford & Sons Goshen, CT (2007) Costas “Dino” Constantinou Grecian Delights Flushing, NY (2011) Maria Costis Olympic Kitchen Grosselle, MI (2001) Janet Cox Red Barn Elephant Ears Kewanna, IN (2005)

December 2018 NICA News

John Heron Triple J Concessions Woodbury, MN (2016) Jeff Horbowicz Erie County Fair Hamburg, NY (2012) Phillip Hull Hull Concessions, LLC Waco, TX (2007) Bill Johnson Fantasy Amusement Company / Arlington’s Best Concessions Prospect Heights, IL (2010) Howard Kilgore Moon Monkey Elfers, FL (2003) Jeff Langlois The Langlois Company Mira Loma, CA (2014) Rebecca Leimon Leimon’s Pizzeria, Inc. Harlingen, TX (1996)

Leah O’Neil O’Neil Amusements LLC St. Paul, MN (2017) Deborah Powers Debbie’s Concessions, LLC Lumberton, NC (1994) Thornton Rodgers Almost Heaven Concessions Sinks Grove, WV (2016) Penny Ryle Ryle / McKinney Food Services Hughes Springs, TX (1996) R.D. Ryle Ryle / McKinney Food Services Hughes Springs, TX (1995)

John Traxler Captain Ken’s Foods Saint Paul, MN (2016) Stephen Vartanian Vartanian Concessions Management Murrieta, CA (2016) Ron Waggoner The Silhouette Shop Fairland, OK (2017) Ed White White’s Concessions Dalton Garden, ID (1995) Laurie Woodruff Jackson WOODY’Z Drinkware Santa Ana, CA (2013)

Thank you to our 47 renewing members for your continued support. Are you up for renewal? Call us today at (813) 438-8926 to find out. “Together We Can!”

President’s Message Dan Lusenhop, President

with the continued hard work and leadership of our Wow, what a year! 2018 Executive Director was very important for NICA’s Michelle Card. I’m growth: we celebrated 25 years as an organization, gave looking forward to seeing what we will out $25,000 in scholarships accomplish in the next to the next generation of Concessionaires, freshened up 25 years. Remember, “Together We Can!” our brand with a new website, A huge “Thank you!” redesigned our member to all of the Committees, Councils, volunteers, and packages to better attract and assist new NICA Members that were involved in the planning members, launched the Southeast Council under of events, educational programs, member Jessica Gottsche’s leadership, held numerous benefits, and 25th Anniversary festivities planned Membership Rallies across the country, built upon last year’s Council successes with additional during this year. Although this year is almost over, convention season is well underway with NICA’s events and fundraising, strengthened Committee presence at the IAFE Convention and the Western activity with this year’s Strategic Plan, developed Fairs Association Convention and Trade Show and by Rey O’Day, Executive Manager of Councils, increased NICA’s presence at the IAFE Convention, NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods 2019 Food and most importantly, sustained the Membership Show coming up in the next two months. Hurry up and make your reservations for growth that NICA has earned in the last few years. Florida Week if you haven’t already; it is going to I am honored to have served as the President be a fun-filled, educational experience! Check the of such a thriving and impactful professional schedule on page 12 for a look at what to expect organization during its 25th year. I am motivated during the week. ▲ and inspired by my fellow Board Members along

Director’s Voice

Richie George, Director

ago. I am ecstatic because we have so many great people with so much drive on our Board, our As our season winds down Councils, our Committees, and beyond. They have and comes to a close, I look been working so hard, and admittedly, with our back at the rollercoaster ride brand and partners in the Industry, to ensure a of a year we have had, from the better tomorrow. wildfires in the West, to the heat I am looking forward to all of the upcoming up East and in the Midwest, and events we are having in the new year. Participating let’s not forget, the rain in the at IAAPA and IAFE was a great start to convention Southeast. Wow! season and the NICA Business Expo and Fare As Showpeople, we endure Foods 2019 Food Show is going to be terrific. and move on. It is like the old saying, “The show There are going to be so many workshops and must go on!” Even so, we have lost many great roundtables to attend; the knowledge that is icons this year. We cannot forget where we came exchanged is incredible. I encourage everyone to from, but we have to keep looking forward to the come and experience these great events! future. Working together, we must continue what I feel very honored to be a part of such a our forefathers in NICA started over 25 years wonderful organization. “Together We Can!” ▲ December 2018 NICA News

Officers

President: Dan Lusenhop 1st Vice President: Kathy Ross 2nd Vice President: Don Delahoyde, CCE Secretary: Sandy Class Treasurer : Jennifer Giordano Asst. Treasurer: Jay “Rocko” Russell

Directors

Andrew “Bruno“ Broomfield Carmel Dyer-Pittroff Richie George Kevin McGrath, CCE Vincent Nelson Tim O’Brien, CCE Mike Pence, CCE Daryl Whicheloe, CCE

Immediate Past President Dominic Palmieri, CCE

Past Presidents’ Council 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 : Michelle Card michelle@nicainc.org

Communications & Marketing Manager : Jesse Willard communications@nicainc.org Office & Membership Manager : Linda Frisco nica@nicainc.org

Gentry Miller

Executive Manager of Councils: Rey O’Day

West Council

rey@nicainc.org

Social Media Coordinator : Jessica Gottsche jessica@nicainc.org

Northeast Council Coordinator : Jessica Gottsche

Members: Lindsey Constantine Kelly Grout Henry Mitchell Cameron Murray Vincent Nelson Eddie Porcelli, III

SOUtheast Council Coordinator : Jessica Gottsche

Members: Jody Conklin Samantha Fairlie Thomas Hodson, CCE

Coordinator : Rey O’Day

Members: Jeff Ames Kim Barr, CCE Ryan Long Erica Quintero Steve Vartanian Jay Wells Daryl Whicheloe, CCE April Wood

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

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December 2018 NICA News

Card’s Corner Michelle Card, Executive Director

Can you believe it is already December? Convention season is now officially in full swing. The IAFE Convention, which ran from November 22-26, was a great experience and we look forward to next year’s event! Check out the next issue for an overview of the IAFE Convention, NICA’s Happy Hour, and beyond. Thank you for all who came out in attendance and helped to support NICA and the Industry. For those of you who weren’t able to make it to NICA’s booth at IAFE’s Trade Show, the image to the right is a glimpse of our exclusive VIP pass, given out with a hawaiian lei, inviting you to visit the NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods 2019 Food Show along with a host of other events during Florida Week. While enjoying the sunshine, please join us at the NICA Business Expo to welcome guest speakers from California, Florida, Massachusetts, New York, North Carolina, and Virginia Fairs, attend the annual NICA Membership Meeting and Gala, and participate in Roundtables and Workshops covering DOT, Labor, Equipment Repair, Vendor Safety, Food and Trailer Trends, Insurance, Payment Processing, Generation Forward, Communication, Promotions, Membership Benefits, and more! Other events in close proximity during the week include the Fare Foods Super Bowl Party, the Fare Foods Food Show, Gibtown Extravaganza and Trade Show, Fresh from

Florida Breakfast and Florida State Fair Private Tour, Fair Partners Shootout, and OABA Topgolf Tournament. Pre-registration for the NICA Business Expo is now available via our website or the direct link: www.eventleaf.com/foodshow2019. Preregister now and skip the line at the event! For more information, including sponsorship and the schedule for this event, see page 10. ▲

Member Benefits Spotlight OCC Signs has you covered with special pricing! Products include graphics and wraps, banners and fence panels, custom branding and design, menus and shape cut signs, product photos, stickers, full-color prints, backlit signs, register covers, displays, design, and more! Call (714) 447-4484 or visit www.occsigns.com and let them know you are a NICA Member to receive your free estimate and special discount pricing. ▲

December 2018 NICA News

Association

Announcements Do you have any announcements that you would like to share with the membership? The deadline is the first day of each preceding month for your target issue. Contact us at (813) 438-8926 or nica@nicainc.org today!

Refer One Member in 2018 and Get a $25 Credit In honor of our 25th Anniversary, in addition to qualifying for our Coca-Cola Membership Contest (leaderboard on page 33 and prizes on the back cover), referring a new member this year after May 1st and before December 31st gets you a $25 credit, up to a total of $125 for a limit of five new members—paying for a whole year of regular membership! Are you up for the challenge? Although there is a limit of five to earn credit, we encourage you to recruit as many as possible. Good luck! ▲

Attention Members—Do You Need Our Help? Is your Fair in search of the next big thing, a unique item, or even some all-around help for your Fair in the realm of concessions, commercial exhibits, or straight sales? Alternatively, are you a Concessionaire who needs to sell equipment or in need of staff? Whatever the need—we can help! We will also replicate your listings online at www.nicainc.org/classifieds to maximize views. We can provide an excellent resource to both sides of the Industry; your ad has a maximum limit of 50 words, with the option of including a photo. Pricing is flexible and starts at only $25 an ad; bulk rates available. We can work with you to give you the best ad possible. Contact us today at communications@nicainc.org or (813) 530-4750 to learn more! ▲

Our Condolences for the Rismiller Family It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Allen Rismiller on November 8, 2018. He was a NICA Member for over 10 years and has been involved in the concession business for over 35 years, starting out as a staff member and eventually owning his own concession business in the early 2000’s. Allen made friends wherever he went and will be missed by his family and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Trinity Lutheran Church of Pitsburg, OH or United Cerebral Palsy. Visit www.kreitzerfuneralhome.com/notices/Allen-RISMILLER for more information. ▲

Congratulations to the Newlyweds A big “Congratulations!” to West Council Member Ryan Long, L&L Concessions, and Wendy Rich who were married on October 20, 2018 in beautiful Yucca Valley, CA with the lovely San Bernardino Mountains framing the landscape. We wish these longtime friends a long and happy marriage! ▲ 8

December 2018 NICA News

focused on

CONCESSIONAIRES Phil Teague, CIC

“One of the cool things that Phil Teague did was, he came out and actually worked in our business...” -Ryan Kuzma, Linn Enterprises Inc.

Property

Fleet

Liability

Workers’ Compensation December 2018 NICA News

NICA Business Expo & Fare Foods 2019 Food Show February 4th, 5th & 6th 2019

Join us at the

Sheraton Tampa East Hotel 10221 Princess Palm Ave. Tampa, FL

The NICA Business Expo will provide Workshops and Discussion Groups which will cover the issues and the daily challenges our industry is faced with today. The Workshops will be facilitated by experts in their fields. The Fare Foods Foods2018 2019Food FoodShow Show will will feature feature exhibitors exhibitors showcasing showcasing the the latest latest food food trends trends and and technology technology that that will willdefine definethe the2019 2019 Fair Fair Season. This year also marks Fare Foods 25th Anniversary, join us in celebrating this remarkable milestone.

February 4 thth & 5 thth, 2019

NICA Workshops and Discussion Groups Fare Foods Food Show: 5 pm - 9 pm (Vendor Setup: Feb. 4th, Noon - 4 pm)

February 6 thth, 2019 NICA Membership Meeting and Evening Entertainment

We We look look forward forward to to seeing seeing you you in in Tampa Tampa

December 2018 NICA News

NICA Business Expo & Fare Foods 2019 Food Show Sponsorship Opportunities q Annual Gala Entertainment...................................................................... $1,500 q Opening Ceremony Champagne Toast................................................... $1,500 q Annual Gala Open Bar / Cocktail Hour.................................................. $1,000 q Food Show Refreshments.......................................................................... $1,000 q Food Show Ribbon Cutting...................................................................... $1,000 q Board Luncheon.............................................................................................. $800 q Past Presidents Luncheon................................................................................ $650 q New Member Goodie Bag................................................................................ $500 q Welcome / Registration Refreshments............................................................ $500 q Annual Gala Decorations................................................................................ $250 q Educational Workshops (No Limit)................................................................ $250 First Name: ____________________ Last Name: __________________________ Company: ___________________________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________ Email: _________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________ Payment Type: q Cash q Check q Credit Card CC #:________________________ Exp: ___ /___ Code: ______ Signature: ________________________________________ All Sponsors will receive their company name and/or logo on the NICA Website, in the Convention Schedule booklet and General Membership Meeting program, and on the signage at the Registration Desk, Food Show Lobby, General Membership Meeting, and Hospitality Night. Submit your sponsorship application by email to expo@nicainc.org, by fax to (813) 803-8460, or by mail to NICA, 1043 E. Brandon Blvd. Brandon, FL 33511.

December 2018 NICA News

NICA Business Expo & Fare Foods 2019 Food Show February 4th, 5th & 6th, 2019 Preliminary Schedule* Sunday, February 3rd

6:00 - 11:00 PM: Superbowl Party, hosted by Fare Foods

Monday, February 4th

8:30 - 9:30 AM: Soda Parts, Equipment, and Repair 9:45 - 10:45 AM: Vendor Safety 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Ask an Insurance Agent 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Nutella 2:15 - 3:15 PM: Point of Sale Solutions 3:30 - 4:30 PM: New Techniques & Food Items, Presented by Fare Foods 5:00 PM: Ribbon Cutting 5:00 - 9:00 PM: Food Show, Presented by Fare Foods 9:00 PM: Hospitality Suite, Hosted by Fare Foods

Tuesday, February 5th

8:30 - 9:30 AM: Generation Forward 9:30 - 10:45 AM: Communications Committees 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM: What Keeps Prices Down 1:15 - 2:30 PM: Promotions that Workâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Fair & Concession Partnerships that Impact the Gate 2:45 - 4:45 PM: Food Trends *Schedule is preliminary and subject to change; see the next issue of NICA News or visit www.nicainc.org for updates.

December 2018 NICA News

NICA Business Expo & Fare Foods 2019 Food Show February 4th, 5th & 6th, 2019 Tuesday, February 5th (continued)

5:00 - 9:00 PM: Food Show, Presented by Fare Foods 9:00 PM: Hospitality Suite, Hosted by Fare Foods

Wednesday, February 6th

8:30 - 10:30 AM: DOT 10:45 - 11:45 AM: NICA Benefits 12:00 - 2:00 PM: Past Directors’ Luncheon 4:00 - 6:00 PM: General Membership Meeting 7:00 - 9:00 PM: Annual Gala

Additional Florida Week Events Tuesday-Friday, February 5th-8th

11:00 AM - 5:00 PM: Gibtown 2019 Extravaganza & Trade Show

Thursday, February 7th

7:30 - 9:00 AM: Fresh from Florida Breakfast 10:00 - 11:00 AM: Florida State Fair Private Tour (must RSVP) 12:00 PM: Fair Partners Shootout 6:00 PM: OABA’s Topgolf Tournament

December 2018 NICA News

NICA Business Expo & Fare Foods 2019 Food Show February February 44thth,, 55thth && 66thth, 2019 2019 To reserve hotel accommodations at the

Sheraton Tampa East Hotel you must visit the online reservation site at

https://www.starwoodmeeting.com/Book/FAREFOODSandOABA

Special Reduced Rates for 2019 King Single / Double Bed Room.................$139.00 (plus tax) Breakfast vouchers available for $13.50 per person, per day (inclusive of tax & gratuity) for each guest in room. You will only be charged when voucher is redeemed. Vouchers provided at check-in. (Redeemable at Panfilo’s Restaurant) *Junior Suites have limited availability, please contact Audrey Poole at Fare Foods prior to reserving your room.

If you have questions/issue with the reservation process for 2019 please call or email Audrey (618) 542-2155 • apoole@farefoods.com *Limited number of rooms available! RESERVATIONS MUST BE MADE NO LATER THAN JANUARY 5, 2019 to receive these special reduced rates. Credit card required to reserve room. 14

December 2018 NICA News

NICA Business Expo & Fare Foods 2019 Food Show

Don’t Miss Our Annual General Membership Meeting February 6th, 2019 4:00 - 6:00 PM • Cypress Room Make sure to save the date for NICA’s Annual Membership Meeting on Wednesday, February 6th, 2018. Topics for discussion, as well as comments, questions, or concerns, are welcome and encouraged from the NICA Membership, but must be submitted by Friday, January 18th, 2019 to be considered. Please send your suggested topics to michelle@nicainc.org for immediate consideration.

Pre-Registration is Now Available! Pre-register today and skip the line by visiting the following link:

www.eventleaf.com/foodshow2019

Thoughts from a This month’s Statement of Communications & Management Philosophy is from one of the creators of the CCE Program, SanDee O’Brien, CCE, O’Briens’ Food Services, who received her designation in 2002:

SanDee O’Brien, CCE “Having grown up in the Concession Business, I have seen many changes in the ways different aspects communicate with each other. Today there is definitely a much wider corridor through which to travel in order to benefit all. With the help of others, I hope this trend continues to widen. It has always been my policy in dealing with my employees to never ask them to do something I personally would not do. My husband claimed I do this to a fault; for instance, it is not really necessary for me to physically mop the kitchen floor, but I would teach someone to do it the way I want it done. I suppose my teaching background runs over into my ‘Concessionairing.’ I have always found ‘visual’ learning to work bettter than ‘verbal.’ It comes naturally for me to ‘show’ rather than ‘tell’ employees their job. Showing others by your own example is the best way to express your philosophy. My business has built a reputation for its cleanliness and homemade cooking from cakes to meat loaves. This reputation is one I’m proud to say I helped my company earn. It succeeded because of the hard work of my family, employees, and Fairs.” ▲

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December 2018 NICA News

Celebrating the Industry The end of the year is always a time of celebration, reflection, and relaxation here at NICA, especially paired with the holiday season; many Concessionaires have ended their route by now and the Fair Industry slows down in general before picking up again next month. This brief respite is certainly welcome, but often this is also an important time to plan for the next year. The arrival of 2019 will also signal the end of NICA’s 25th Anniversary year. A large “Thanks!” goes out to all who supported NICA this year, whether through your new or renewed membership, attendance at the 2018 NICA Business Expo and 25th Anniversary Gala, participation in or planning of NICA rallies, workshops, and fundraisers, or engagement in many issues that are important to NICA Members such as rising costs, labor, and more. The list goes on, but through these examples and many more numerous to list here, the NICA Membership and by extension the growing relationships within the Fair Industry give a healthy, sustained weight to NICA’s motto, “Together We Can!” In this spirit, a group of Past Presidents joined in sharing their thoughts on NICA’s journey throughout the years: Richie Wright, Past President and 2018 Hall of Fame Recipient, stated, “I am very proud to see how far NICA has come in its 25 years and the national recognition it has from coast to coast. I would love to see NICA get more involved with finding gate promotions that could take our Industries to a higher level and creating a niche in the outdoor entertainment world that would really show America who we are and what we are about.” Greg Miller, CCE, Past President, said, “When I reflect back on the 25 years of NICA, all I can say is ‘Wow!’ The founding fathers had a great vision to form this organization and set the guidelines through policies, procedures, and bylaws that are still in use today. Many

challenges will remain for the next 25 years and I hope the future leadership will look back at what our mission was 25 years ago.” Paulette Keene, CCE, Past President, added, “NICA has accomplished a lot in 25 years. It has brought small and large Concessionaires together to learn and grow our businesses alongside each other. NICA also has given us many benefits to help our bottom line. Our bond as NICA Members has given us a tremendous VOICE in the Fair Industry and good relationships with our Fair Management and Industry partners.” Dominic Palmieri, CCE, Immediate Past President, further elaborated on the topic: “As I look back on my last 11 years of service to NICA, I realize that it was a great journey of learning, growing and developing better communication skills. This is what I appreciated most of my time spent serving NICA. Service is an honor in any capacity. Serving my Industry and working to make things better for current Industry needs and for future needs has been very gratifying. Everyone has special talents that can help the NICA organization. My talents were quite different than previous Past Presidents and will be seen very different from future Presidents. NICA is a business with a lot of intricate components required to fire with the balance and synchronicity of a fine-tuned machine. The talents I brought to the organization hopefully helped to cement positive direction and change that is required in any successful business model. While my time is just about over with direct service, it is my duty to continue to help with some

►► “Industry” continued on page 19 December 2018 NICA News

Council Updates Jessica Gottsche, Northeast & Southeast Council Coordinator

Northeast Regional Council

2018: Year in Review

during setup week. We sold 45 tickets and those who attended enjoyed the camaraderie and being June of 2018 proved to be a month of together with other members. celebration, as it was the Northeast Council’s Our Council Representatives have also second anniversary. As some of our founding been actively recruiting New Members to the members have reached the end of their service terms, we are recruiting for new members. Today, association, and are thrilled to share that through our rallies, events and networking at Fair, the your Northeast Council Members are: Northeast Council has recruited 39 members in • Cameron Murray, Chester’s Gators & Taters 2018. • Lindsey Constantine, Red’s Red Apples In September, we held our third annual rally, • Henry Mitchell, Amy’s Sweet Treats in West Springfield, MA. EJ White, from the OABA • Kelly Grout, Jack’s Fries Government Relations Committee presented • Vincent Nelson, Vinnie’s Fine Foods to the attendees and shared labor updates • Eddie Porcelli, III, Spaghetti Eddie and anticipated outcomes of joint NICA/OABA • Jessica Gottsche, Council Coordinator lobbying efforts around the H-2B Visa Program. We In January, we attended the New York State partnered with eight sponsors this year, offered a Association of Agricultural Fairs. The Northeast full table of prizes, and held a 50/50 opportunity Council managed a booth where we shared sale. For the first time, we held the event during information on member benefits, the purpose The Big E, on the grounds, in an effort to increase of the Northeast Council, and recruited new attendance, and our efforts were successful, members. Jessica also presented to the seeing an increase of 20 percent. As an extra convention attendees, sharing the mission of incentive, we also gave away cell phone chargers, NICA, and encouraging better communication which were a big hit! and strengthening relationships between Fair In September, we wished Tonio Viscusi well, Management and Vendors. as his term on the Northeast For the second year in a row, we organized a Council ended. Tonio was one bus trip of NICA Members, who attended a New of the original members of the York Yankees game over the summer. The bus left Northeast Council and helped from the main gate of the New Jersey State Fair, lead successful fundraising and engagement events. Jessica Gottsche, In November, Jessica Northeast Council also attended the joint Coordinator, leading Massachusetts, Connecticut a session at the and Rhode Island State Fair Massachusetts, Connecticut and Convention in Cromwell, CT. At the convention, Jessica led one Rhode Island State Fair Convention of the general sessions, with the opportunity to educate attendees on what NICA is and does, on Contract Management and The Northeast Council at the 2018 NICA Business Expo: on Transfer of Ownership. Vincent Nelson, Vinnie’s Fine Foods, Edward Porcelli, Finally, representatives from the Northeast III, Spaghetti Eddie, Jessica Gottsche, Northeast Council Coordinator, Tonio Viscusi, Angela’s Pizza, Cameron Murray, Council joined the NICA Board of Directors at Chester’s Gators & Taters, Lindsey Constantine, Red’s Red the IAFE Convention in San Antonio, TX. At the Apples, and Kelly Grout, Jack’s Fries. Not pictured: Henry convention, we represented the Council at the Mitchell, Amy’s Sweet Treats

December 2018 NICA News

various NICA events and attended informative sessions on the Fair Industry, and had the opportunity to network with Fair Management and other members of our Industry. As plans for 2019 progress and are getting underway, plan to see the Northeast Regional Council at the New York State Fair Association Convention, again, in Rochester, NY in January. We will also attend the IAFE Zone 1 meeting and present a roundtable, topic to be determined. And, of course, we are already making plans for various rallies throughout the year.

Southeast Regional Council In May of 2018, the Southeast Council held its very first meeting to commemorate the launch of the Council and make plans for the remainder of 2018. We are currently also recruiting for New Members, with a goal of three more members by Florida Week. Today, your Southeast Council Members are:

Southeast Council Members at their first event, Rally in Raleigh: Samantha Fairlie, The Pretzel Lady, Tom Hodson, CCE, Past President, Jody Conklin, Moose Joose, and Jessica Gottsche, Southeast Council Coordinator. Not pictured: Gentry Miller, Miller & Company

from Fair Management shared their belief of the importance of open lines of communication between Vendors and their Fair staff, and also thanked us for choosing their Fair for the Council’s very first event. There was also a valuable prize table and 50/50 drawing. In attendance, were four • Samantha Fairlie, The Pretzel Lady, Inc. Past Presidents of NICA, offering their support of • Thomas Hodson, CCE, The Thomas Hodson the organization and of the newly formed Council. Company Finally, Representatives from the Southeast • Jody Conklin, Moose Juice Slush Council joined the NICA Board of Directors, • Gentry Miller, Miller & Company West Council, and Northeast Council at the IAFE • Jessica Gottsche, Council Coordinator Convention in San Antonio, TX. We represented the Council at the various NICA events and attended Our Southeast Council Representatives have informative sessions on the Fair Industry, and had committed to growing the organization by the opportunity to network with Fair Management recruiting New Members, and are thrilled to share that in our few short months, we have recruited 17 and other members of our Industry. As plans for 2019 progress and are getting members to the organization. underway, plan to see the Southeast Council at In October, the Southeast Council held its the joint IAFE Zone 2 / Florida Federation of Fairs inaugural event, the Rally in Raleigh, at the Convention. And, of course, we are already making North Carolina State Fair. Over 40 NICA Members attended the breakfast rally where guest speakers plans for various rallies throughout the year. ▲

“Industry” continued from page 17 ►►

the Councils directly helps develop new leaders, fosters new ideas, and keeps our mission of form of service. Whether it is in an advisory capacity communication fresh and relevant.” to the Board, helping with fundraisers, maintaining NICA soon heads into its 26th year in a Sysco relationships, or even being part of a ‘Clean Up very positive, upward trajectory. How will 2019, Committee’ after a fundraising event, I will attempt to and by extension the next 25 years, impact the continue to serve in some capacity. organization? Only time will tell, for what we learn 25 years of serving NICA Members and the from the past can only inform the future. The only Industry is a remarkable accomplishment! My hope certain thing is that we need your help to get us is that NICA continues to develop and grow for there. If you have suggestions or ideas on the the betterment of ALL NICA Members. The best future of this organization, please reach out to the course of action is to encourage new leadership by NICA Office or Board. “Together We Can!” ▲ developing from all parts of the country. Supporting December 2018 NICA News

A Tale of Two Tournaments Rey O’Day, Executive Manager of Councils For 12 Fair seasons NICA West has hosted two Golf Tournaments in Southern California: one in June during the San Diego County Fair and one in September during the LA County Fair. In each one, Suppliers join Concessionaires for a relaxing day of fellowship and friendly competition. These fundraising events provide NICA-awarded scholarships, educational programming, and support local community nonprofits.

The lineup for the infamous “putting contest” at the 12th Annual Mark Neagles / NICA West Invitational

Rich Brander, Brander Enterprises, and Ken Skirsky, Foote Photos, are two folks who have loyally brought foursomes to support both On June 18th, 56 friends of Mark Neagles tournaments for years. They were the Second gathered at the Lomas Santa Fe Country Club to Place winning team with a score of 61. The play golf in his honor at the newly named Mark Country Fair Cinnamon Rolls and Pristine Systems Neagles/NICA West Invitational. Good Source Team won Third Place with a score of 62. This Solutions emptied their office onto the golf course, group of players are also longtime supporters of nine Sysco “friends of Mark” paid their own way to this tournament. Attention to details makes an play in his honor, and 32 Concession Companies event successful. A special thank you to Mark’s kept the festivities going. Mark’s immediate son-in-law, Bill Kuzma, who helped organize family, who also were a foursome, were truly people, signs, and connections. touched and pleased with the sentiment of the The dinner (of course it was chicken) and the day. It was a beautiful day by the ocean. reception were a celebration of colleagueship, Gary and Connie Barham have hosted this service, and friendship. There were 56 players and event at their home course for many years, but 47 golf hole sponsors. Chicken Charlie donated never won a tournament. All that was to change $2000 to the 2018 NICA Scholarship Fund and this year—with a score of 54, the Hot Dog on a Stick $500 to the South San Diego Boys and Girls Club. team won First Place! Their scratch golfer, Natalie NICA also donated $1000 to the same Boys and Vivaldi won both the Longest Drive at Hole #2 and Girls Cub where Mark Neagles served as Board the Closest to the Pin at Hole #17. Hot Dog on a President. Stick has purchased the Hole- in-One insurance for NICA presented plaques to Mark’s daughter, both tournaments for 12 years. Let’s give it up for Jennifer Kuzma, and son, Jason Neagles that Hot Dog on a Stick and Gary, Connie, and Courtney reads, “In loving memory of Mark Neagles, a man Barham! who showed us how to live, work, and play with

12th Annual Mark Neagles / NICA West Invitational

First Place: Gary Barham’s Hot Dog on a Stick Team

December 2018 NICA News

Second Place: Ken Skirsky, Foote Photo, Geoff Gray, Rich Brander, Brander Enterprises, and Hyram Allen, Funnel Cake

Second Place: Jeff Gray and Rich Brander, Brander Enterprises, Ken Skirsky, Foote Photos, and Mark Lancaster, Vista Mobility Third Place: Rob Diaz, Gadgets and Neat Stuff, Dane Baldwin, County Fair Cinnamon Rolls, Aaron Mathews, Yosemite Signs, Willie Madaus, Country Fair Cinnamon Rolls, and Jim, Gadgets and Neat Stuff

resourcefulness, kindness, professionalism, and honor. We are grateful for the honor of enjoying his friendship. He personified the golden rule.” In the tradition of professional recognition for scoring well, Pete Holohan, Good Source Solutions, presented a framed jersey with Mark’s personal sales number on it to show Good Source Solutions honored him by retiring his personal sales number. Ashley Murray, M&M Marketing Inc., was also recognized as a “Greatly Appreciated Volunteer” for seven years of generous service to NICA through his work with the NICA West Council. His award reads, “NICA West Council gratefully presents this Award of Appreciation to Ashley Murray for outstanding years of service, leadership, meaningful accomplishments, and dedication to the ongoing work of NICA West.” The award also included the following quote: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” —Helen Keller

12th Annual NICA West / Fairplex Child Development Center Golf Tournament This end of the season tournament brings together Concessionaries and Suppliers celebrating one of the missions of the Fair Industry; to support the well being and education of our children through a donation to the Fairplex Child Development Center. Scott Shacklet, General Manager of Spectra Food Services at Fairplex brought together foursomes of Suppliers who are everyday competitors, and West Council Members Ryan Long, L&L Concessions, and Steve Vartanian, Vartanian Concessions Management, brought together Fair Vendor foursomes and lots of nonplayers as golf hole sponsors. Oh, and did I say yet that “beer” was the glue of the day?

The day began with the putting contest, of which Jon O’Day was the proud winner (and yes, Rey is the proud “older” sister). Then the players headed out to the course with their mulligans while Jan and Karen Gary, JK Dippin’ Dots, and Chuck and Irene Dugan, Chuckwagon Concessions, helped Rey set up the amazing array of opportunity drawing prizes. Thank you Anheuser Busch, Southern Spirits, SC Beverage, Classic Beverage, O’Ryan Hats, Vista Mobility, Fairplex, and NICA! A served dinner of salad, lemon herb chicken, rice pilaf, vegetables, and cookies regathered a sunburned, happy crowd. Following dinner it was all about announcing the winners of over 30 prizes and the winners of the tournament. John Stancata, Anheuser Busch, hit the Longest Drive at Hole #15 and Anthony Perez, D&D Flooring, hit the Closest to the Pin at Hole #17. The Third Place team won with a score of 62 and included longtime RCS employee Ronnie Wald. The Second Place team included longtime supporter players Mark Lancaster, Vista Mobility, Rich Brander and Jeff Gray, Brander Enterprises, and Ken Skirsky, Foote Photo, and won with

►► “Tale” continued on page 22

Third Place: Jon O’Day, Pete Brown (standing), Ronnie Wald, RCS, and Gerry Bumanlag (seated) December 2018 NICA News

“Tale” continued from page 21 ►► a score of 60. The First Place team, from SC Beverage, also won with a score of 60 (higher points in first eight holes). It must be said that Ryan Long patiently sat at the Hole #9 waiting for someone to hit a hole in one (which did not happen) and Gary Barham has now provided the Hole in One insurance package for these NICA golf tournaments 24 times! Goodie bags were provided by Sysco, Touch of Purple, Anheuser Busch, Classic Beverage, Ryan Long, and Steve Vartanian. There were 44 players and 37 golf hole sponsors. A deserving “THANK YOU!” to the San Diego County Fair, the LA County Fair, and all the staff and participants who have supported these two events for twelve years that give back to their communities, honor their own, provide money for NICA Scholarships and programs and provide a worthwhile play day. Again a big “SHOUT OUT” to our NICA Members and friends that continue to support NICA’s fundraising events! “Together We Can Continue to Play and Give Back!” ▲

December 2018 NICA News

Getting to Know Your

Regional Council Members Jessica Gottsche, Southeast Council Coordinator We had the chance to interview the Southeast Council’s very own Samantha Fairlie, based out of Saint Augustine, Florida. Her responses are below:

What is the name of your business and what do you sell? My business is The Pretzel Lady, Inc. and I sell hand rolled pretzels and pretzel dogs using our proprietary recipe since 1995.

What is your annual route? I start in Florida during Winter/Spring with the Florida State Fair in Tampa, Clay County Fair and Scottish Games in Green Cove Springs, Leesburg Bikefest, and a variety of events in St. Augustine. During the Summer, I travel to the New Jersey State Fair, Delaware County Fair in New York, Minnesota State Fair, Guilford Fair in Connecticut, State Fair of Virginia, North Carolina State Fair, and finishing my season with the Coastal Carolina Fair in South Carolina.

When did you join NICA; who recruited you? I joined in February 2018, so it will be 10 months in December. I was recruited by Northeast Council Member Henry Mitchell, Amy’s Sweet Treats.

Samantha Fairlie, The Pretzel Lady, Inc.

Tell us about your family. Are they active in the business? My son, Cameron, turned 19 this November and is currently attending college for his computer science degree as well as being enrolled in a 14-month diesel mechanics course. He has been hands on in the business, but will now be moving on to make his own way in the world. My family has been in the Outdoor Amusement Industry for 40-plus years.

What inspired you to join the Southeast Council? An assurance from Northeast Council Members Henry Mitchell and Eddie Porcelli that real change was going to take place in the coming years.

What do you hope the Southeast Council accomplishes during your tenure? I am looking forward to building an atmosphere of professionalism and respect between both Vendors and Fair personnel in order to make positive, tangible improvements to a business that we all endure with a passion to ensure the continuation of an Industry that brings fond memories to Fair patrons as well as those who work to ensure that the “show goes on.”

We appreciate your responses Samantha! What is the best way for a NICA Member to reach you? Pretzels on display for a hungry crowd in St. Augustine

The best way for a NICA Member to get in touch with me is by email: pretzelknotty@gmail.com. ▲ December 2018 NICA News

A Blast from the Past

December 2018 NICA News

Outside the Fair If you have a topic that you’d like to be covered in a future issue that doesn’t seem to be getting much attention, contact us at (813) 530-4750 or communications@nicainc.org for consideration.

Minimum Wage Changes for 2019

will pay a higher minimum wage in 2019. As of January 1, the large employer—one with more Several states will increase their minimum than $500,000 in gross receipts—rate will increase wages for 2019. In fact, 17 states will be changing from $9.65 to $9.86. The minimum wage for small their minimum wage between December 31 and employers will increase from $7.87 to $8.04. There January 1: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, is no separate rate for tipped employees. Florida, Maine, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New Missouri’s state minimum wage annually Jersey, New York, Ohio, Rhode Island, South Dakota, adjusts due to indexing. However, the Missouri Vermont, and Washington. Department of Commerce has not yet announced Alaska statutes require the state to adjust its the minimum wage effective for 2019. minimum wage annually for inflation using the Furthermore, Missouri Proposition B, the $12 Consumer Price Index (CPI). However, the state Minimum Wage Initiative, is on the November has not announced its minimum wage for 2019. 6 ballot. If passed, the minimum wage for 2019 Arizona has a planned increase effective would be $8.60. January 1. The state minimum wage will increase Currently, employers in the state engaged in from $10.50 to $11; the tipped minimum wage retail or service businesses with an annual gross will increase from $7.50 to $8. Both increases are income less than $500,000 are not required to pay the result of Proposition 206, a November 2016 the state minimum wage rate. Tipped employees ballot that went into effect July 1, 2017. The state must be paid half of the state minimum wage rate minimum wage will reach $12 by 2020. or $3.93 per hour. Effective January 1, the minimum wage for The Montana Labor Department announced California employers with 25 or less employees the state minimum wage will increase from $8.30 increases from $10.50 to $11.00. Employers with to $8.50 on January 1. Montana prohibits tip 26 or more employees will see the minimum wage credits, so tipped employees must be paid the full increase from $11 to $12. minimum wage. Colorado will increase the state minimum wage New Jersey has annual indexed increases to its from $10.20 to $11.10 effective January 1. The minimum wage. Effective January 1, the minimum tipped minimum wage is set at $3.02 less than wage will increase from $8.60 to $8.85. The tipped the regular wage, increasing from $7.18 to $8.08. minimum wage of $2.13 is statutorily set by the Florida has announced its annual indexed rate, New Jersey Department of Labor and won’t change. effective January 1, where its minimum wage New York is unique in that its wages change will increase from $8.25 to $8.46, and its tipped December 31, not January 1. Also, it has one of the minimum wage will increase from $5.23 to $5.44. most complicated minimum wage rate structures This year, Massachusetts passed legislation of any state. The minimum wage for New York State to increase the state minimum wage to $15 by does not apply to New York City or the downstate 2023. On January 1, the state minimum wage will counties of Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester. increase from $11 to $12. The tipped minimum As of December 31, the state minimum wage wage will increase from $3.75 to $4.35. will rate will increase from $10.40 to $11.10, and Maine has a planned rate increase effective the tipped minimum wage will remain $7.50 for January 1. The state minimum wage increases food service employees. from $10 to $11, and the tipped minimum wage Ohio has annual indexed minimum wage will increase from $5 to $5.50. increases. The Ohio Department of Commerce Large and small employers in Minnesota announced that the minimum wage will increase 26

December 2018 NICA News

January 1, for non-tipped employees from $8.30 to $8.55, and for tipped employees, from $4.15 to $4.30. Employers who gross less than $314,000 will not be covered by the law. Rhode Island’s minimum wage will increase January 1, from $10.10 to $10.50. The tipped minimum wage remains $3.89. The South Dakota State Labor Department announced that the minimum wage for 2019 will increase from $8.85 to $9.10. The wage for tipped employees will increase from $4.43 to $4.55. Vermont will begin annual indexed increases to its minimum wage in 2019. On January 1, the minimum wage will increase from $10.50 to $10.78. The minimum wage for tipped employees will increase from $5.25 to $5.39. A ballot measure from 2016 means the minimum wage in Washington will be $13.50 by 2020. As of January 1, the minimum wage will increase from $11.50 to $12. There is no separate wage for tipped employees. — GovDocs ▲

Avoid Penalty for Underpayment of Taxes—IRS Says Check Withholding, Make Estimated Payments

includes some income from the sharing economy and income from self-employment or rental activities. Individuals, including sole proprietors, partners and S corporation shareholders, may need to make estimated tax payments unless they owe less than $1,000 when they file their tax return or they had no tax liability in the prior year (subject to certain conditions). The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, enacted in December 2017, changed the way tax is calculated for most taxpayers, including those with substantial income not subject to withholding. Because of the far-reaching tax changes taking effect this year, the IRS urges all employees, including those with other sources of income, to perform a Paycheck Checkup now. Doing so now will help avoid an unexpected yearend tax bill and possibly a penalty. The easiest way to do this is to use the Withholding Calculator available on IRS.gov. Taxpayers normally make four estimated tax payments a year. Remaining payments for 2018 are due January 15, 2019. Those who make estimated payments may be charged a penalty if those payments are late. — IRS ▲

With nearly 10 million US taxpayers facing a penalty for underpayment of estimated tax last year, the Internal Revenue Service urges taxpayers to plan ahead, understand their options and avoid the penalty when they file in early 2019. Those who are self-employed or have other income, such as interest, dividends, selfemployment, capital gains, prizes and awards or have too little tax withheld from wages may need to make estimated or additional tax payments. Estimated tax is used to pay not only income tax, but other taxes such as selfemployment tax and alternative minimum tax. The US tax system is essentially “payas-you-go.” Taxes must be paid as income is earned or received during the year. For people who receive salaries, wages, pensions, unemployment compensation and the taxable part of Social Security benefits, tax can be withheld. Taxpayers can adjust withholding on their paychecks or the amount of their estimated tax payments to help prevent penalties. Some income is not subject to withholding. This December 2018 NICA News

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December 2018 NICA News

THE FLORIDA FEDERATION OF FAIRS, NICA & OABA HAVE TEAMED UP TO OFFER ALL OUR MEMBER & GUESTS A GREAT NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY!

Shooters (Protec�ve Eyeware Required)

Phone Number

1 2 3 4

S0ONSORSHI0S

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SUPPORTING SPONSORS Will receive signage and recognition at the event for the following investments:

Please charge my card:

Please Check One: □ CORPORATE SPONSOR $1000 Includes 4 shooters, ammunition (12 or 20 gauge), lunch, recogntion at lunch and event signage

□ Lunch: $1000 □ Awards: $300 □ Ammunition: $500 □ Station: $100 Gun Rental is available for $30 000000000000000000000000000000

Florida Federation of Fairs 12802 Balm Boyette Road Riverview, FL 33579

□ Please bill me □ The amount enclosed is $_____________ □ A check is enclosed □ Visa □ Mastercard

Card Number: ________________________ Expiration Date: _______ /_______ Name on Card: ________________________ Zip Code: __________ Signature: ____________________________

Qu00ti0n0? Please contact Lisa Hinton Email: lisahinton@floridafairs.org Phone: 813-763-0161

WFA Convention Preview NICA and WFA are continuing to enjoy a productive and successful collaboration as two sister organizations. Many companies are members of both organizations as a way to strengthen both their own businesses and their Fair relationships. We invite all our NICA members in the West to engage in our NICA West activities by attending the 2019 WFA Convention and Trade Show at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, NV.

Sunday, january 20 • 8:00 – 11:00 PM: WFA Bowling Tournament, hosted by the WFA Service Members with door prizes and cash awards provided by NICA.

Monday, january 21 • 8:30 – 9:45 AM: Service Members Opening Meeting • 10:00 AM — 12:30 PM: Opening General Assembly, Annual Meeting, and State of the Industry • 12:30 – 4:30 PM: Trade Show including NICA Sysco Marketplace Food Show

Tuesday, January 22

• 8:30 – 9:30 AM: Service Members Division • 4:45 – 6:00 PM: Trends in Mobile Food and Breakouts: Commercial, Food & Beverage, Beverage: Every industry has its trends and Entertainment Mobile Food and Beverage is no exception.This • 9:45 – 11:00 AM: H-2B Visa / Temporary session will focus on new food and beverage Labor: For nearly 20 years, many Carnivals, items, new ways to prepare food and beverage Concessionaires, and Vendors in the US and items, point-of-sale solutions, successful Canada have relied on seasonal guest workers food and beverage promotions, and employee from outside the country to supplement their sourcing trends. If it is trending in the Mobile workforce, providing a safe, reliable, and Concessions Business, this will be the place to consistent Guest experience at Fairs and other learn about it and discuss it. events. Hear from a panel of Fair partners that • 4:45 – 6:00 PM: Succession Planning— utilize the H-2B Visa Program and how the Are You Ready?: Fifty percent of your core new labor laws have changed the way they do workforce is eligible to retire within the next business. five years. Are you ready? This workshop will • 11:15 AM — 12:30 PM: Becky Lunders, cover succession planning topics including teamWorks, Keynote Speaker, presents identifying the positions most critical to the “Keeping it Fresh: Positive Change and success of your organization, understanding Innovation Shape the Fair Experience” the challenges that are unique to the fair industry, and formalizing a succession • 12:30 – 3:30 PM: Trade Show including NICA planning process, presented by Kathy Kramer, Sysco Marketplace Food Show CEO, OC Fair and Event Center. • 3:15 PM: NICA Opportunity Drawing for Golf • 6:15 – 10:00 PM: President’s Reception

December 2018 NICA News

Cart during the Trade Show.

• 3:45 – 5:00 PM: Making Fairs Affordable Again

Best Practices Experienced at Fairs: The place of business for most WFA Service Members is Fairs. They experience many services, participate in many promotions, and collaboratively engage in many guest service activities: all best practices stories to be shared with our Industry colleagues. This session is focused on finding some new ideas to put into practice.

Wednesday, January 23 • 8:45 – 10:00 AM: Strengthening Our Partnerships with Sister Organizations Creates Mutual Successes with Concessionaires: The Fair Industry is a host to many mutually beneficial partnerships. In fact, some of our greatest, most creative partners are between Vendors and Fairs—a relationship that can help ensure our mutual bottom line success, as well as enhancing the overall event experience for our attendees. Let’s expand the creative conversation of how to maximize the returns for everyone! Presented by Michelle Card, NICA’s Executive Director, and Dan Lusenhop, NICA’s President. • 10:15 – 11:15 AM: NICA Membership Meeting: The National Independent Concessionaires Association will offer information on membership and address current topics affecting Concessionaires throughout the Industry. • 2:30 – 3:45 PM: Service Members Sharing

Since 1947

• 4:00 – 5:15 PM: Service Member Gathering: WFA Service Members will come together one last time at REMIX to recap their experiences and plan for the year ahead. • 6:00 – 8:00 PM: Industry Awards Celebration: The culmination of WFA’s week in Reno, featuring presentations of the Barham Award for outstanding entrepreneurship, the Merrill Award for innovation and vision in Fair Management, and the WFA Hall of Fame Award honoring individual commitment and service to the Fair Industry. The event will conclude with the installation of WFA Board Officers and a message from WFA President-Elect Judy Carrico. ▲

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December 2018 NICA News

2018 Membership Contest Leaderboard* General Membership Stacy Doane..........................................................................4 Andrew “AJ” Ross.................................................................3 Bess Brinkley.........................................................................2 Connie Featherston...............................................................2 Doug Guinsler........................................................................2 Russ Harrison, CCE...............................................................2 Ron Porter.............................................................................2 David Belcher........................................................................1 Rick Busse, CCE....................................................................1 Kelly Butler............................................................................1 Karen Gary.............................................................................1 Lenny Dunford.......................................................................1 Charles Giordano...................................................................1 Bob Jackson..........................................................................1 Nancy Miller..........................................................................1 Connie McKinney, CCE..........................................................1 Missy Pfile.............................................................................1 Randy Reichert, CCE.............................................................1 Jeff Ross...............................................................................1 Karen Russell........................................................................1 Craig Sawyer.........................................................................1 Horst Schacht.......................................................................1 Tim Seivers............................................................................1 Dale Smith, CCE.....................................................................1 Tonio Viscusi.........................................................................1 Ted Wentz..............................................................................1

Councils Kim Barr, CCE.........................................................................7 Jeff Ames..............................................................................3 Lindsey Constantine.............................................................3 Jay Wells................................................................................3 Henry Mitchell.......................................................................2 Cameron Murray....................................................................2 Ryan Long..............................................................................1 Erica Quintero........................................................................1 Steve Vartanian.....................................................................1

Board of Directors Dominic Palmieri, CCE..........................................................5 Kathy Ross............................................................................3 Andrew “Bruno” Broomfield..................................................2 Carmel Dyer-Pittroff..............................................................2 Jennifer Giordano..................................................................2 Richie George........................................................................1 Kevin McGrath, CCE..............................................................1 Vincent Nelson......................................................................1 Tim O’Brien, CCE....................................................................1 Jay “Rocko” Russell............................................................. 1

Administration Office.................................................................................. 50

*Listing as of 10/31/18. Every new member referred gets you one entry. See back cover for rules and prizes. Final listings will be available online and in the January/ February 2019 issue of NICA News. December 2018 NICA News

2018-19 Events Calendar

Representing NICA & Its Industry Partners

December 7-9: Association of Iowa Fairs Annual Convention • Des Moines, IA 24-25: Office Closed for Christmas Eve & Christmas Day

January

6-9: Wisconsin Association of Fairs Convention • Wisconsin Dells, WI

17-19: Kentucky Association of Fairs and Horse Shows Convention • Louisville, KY

10-12: Arkansas Fair Managers Association Convention • Hot Springs, AR

17-19: Tennessee Association of Fairs Convention • Nashville, TN

10-12: Michigan Association of Fairs & Exhibitions Convention • Grand Rapids, MI

1: Office Closed for New Year’s Day

10-12: West Virginia Association of Fairs & Festivals Convention • Charleston, WV

3-5: North Carolina Association of Agricultural Fairs Convention • Raleigh, NC

10-13: Missouri Association of Fairs & Festivals Convention • Columbia, MO

3-7: Virginia Association of Fairs Convention • Hot Springs, VA

10-13: Oregon Fairs Association Convention • Salem, OR

4-6: Indiana Association of Fairs Convention • Indianapolis, IN

Visit www.nicainc.org for updates, changes, additional dates, and more!

17-20: Minnesota Federation of County Fairs Annual Convention • Minneapolis, MN 18-20: Illinois Association of Agricultural Fairs Convention • Springfield, IL 18-21: New York State Association of Agricultural Fairs Convention • Rochester, NY 20-23: WFA Convention & Trade Show • Reno, NV 21-22: NICA Sysco Marketplace at the WFA Convention • Reno, NV

SEE WHAT’S NEW for 2018! For more information contact your local Distributor 34

December 2018 NICA News

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

For Off ice Use Only

Date: #:

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION q Mr. q Mrs.

q Ms.

First:

Last:

Name of business: Physical address: Mailing address:

City :

Primary Phone Number :

State:

Zip:

State:

Zip:

Alternate / Cell phone number :

Email:

Website:

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

NICA News Preference: q Mail q Email

Referred by :

Annual Membership Fees Independent Concession Membership

Associate Membership

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

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

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

Voting:

Non-Voting:

q Employee...............................................................................$50 q Retired....................................................................................$50 five Year independent Concession Membership Pay for five years up front and save $50.

Independent Concessionaire............................................$575

Concession Business / Group Membership

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

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

q q q

Commercial Exhibitors / Retail Attractions / Entertainment Services

q q

Business Description

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.

________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________

Food Games

Mail Check or Money Order to NICA’s Office at 1043 E. Brandon Blvd. Brandon, FL 33511

Concessionaire General Routing Information

q Visa q Mastercard q American Express q Discover

_____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________

Credit Card #:

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

Fairs and Festivals

List three Fairs or Festivals worked in the past year :

1. __________________________________________________________ 2. __________________________________________________________ 3. __________________________________________________________

If accepted for membership in NICA, I hereby agree to abide by its by-laws and rules.

Security Code:

Expiration Date:

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Signature of Credit Card Holder I authorize NICA to charge the agreed amount listed above to my credit card provided herein. I agree I will pay for this purchase in accordance with the issuing bank cardholder agreement. The NICA sponsored $10,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance Policy is automatically provided to all Independent Concessionaire Members.

Applicant’s signature

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Beneficiary ________________________________________ Phone ___________________

National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc. 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 Time Sensitive Mail â&#x20AC;¢ December 2018 Issue

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