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Contents • January / February 2019 Articles & Features
Events & Contests
04 This Month’s New & Renewal Members 05 The Passing of the Gavel 05 Bringing in the New Year 07 Card’s Corner 10 Directors’ Voices 11 See You in Tampa! 22 Making First Impressions 24 From Cutting Grass to Serving Food Fast! One Man’s Journey to Join the Generation Forward 28 Attention Members! Are You Taking Advantage of All that NICA has to Offer? 30 Association Announcements 31 Member Classifieds 32 Meet Your Council Members 37 West Council Annual Report 38 Meet Our Two New Certified Concessionaire Executives 40 Promotions That Make a Positive Impact
12 NICA Business Expo & Fare Foods 2019 Food Show Sponsorship, Schedule & Pre-Registration 31 Don’t Miss Your Chance! 33 4th Annual Fair Partners Shootout 34 WFA Convention Preview 45 Coca-Cola Membership Contest 46 2019 Events Calendar
AdvertiSers 44 A to Z Meats 09 & 29 Ad America 36 Allied Specialty Insurance 42 Alpha Baking Co. 17 Elemonader 32 Fanestil Meats 37 Fantasy Amusement Co. 11 Fare Foods 39 First Data 44 Haas & Wilkerson Insurance 28 Heinkel’s Packing Co.
29 Hummel Group 29 JKJ Workforce 48 OCC Signs 02 Pepsi 35 RJ Schinner 27 Soda Parts Express 43 Source1 Purchasing 42 Swanel Beverage 44 The Best Around Trailer Shells 26 Whirley DrinkWorks! 06 WNA
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 © 1993-2019 NICA, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Happy New Year! January / February 2019 NICA News
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This Month’s Newest Members! Thomas Barletta
Rodrigo Gontaro
Anthony Mastergeorge
Matt Ribar
Sharon Barlow
Robert Gottsche
Joe Muldoon
Grant Simons
Kelley Myers
Dustin Stafford
Chompers LLC Canton, CT
Midway Magazine, LLC Kannapolis, NC
Fun Time Foods Camilus, NY
Chris Bayle
Eastern States Exposition, Home of The Big E West Springfield, MA
David Cavallaro
Sysco Specialty Meat Murphy, NC
CW Concessions Lakewood, OH Cavallaro Concessions Mendota Heights, MN
John Class
SAN-JON Enterprises Apollo Beach, FL
B. Woody Ham
Tyler Haman
Meggers Road Concessions, Inc. / Hot Wisconsin Cheese Kiel, WI
Daniel Hill
Anthony's Bellow Falls, VT
Low N Slow Catering LLC Torrington, CT Barb Wilson Ent. II LLC Riverview, FL
William Needy
Boyd Newton
Rick Stiffler
Hani Jouni
Michael Otlowski
William Kerigan
Andy Pipon
Giant Ice Cream Cone and Lemonade Riverside, CA
Chris Ladd
Robert Poole
Whitney Fraleigh
Lorna Massey
Dan Puglis
Brian Ellsworth
Southwood Entertainment Group Memphis, TN
Teresa Farnum
Swift Concessions Wallkill, NY
Ad America LLC Upland, CA Millies Pierogi Chicopee, MA FreshPoint Modesto, CA Massey Concessions Germantown, KY
Total Event Access Management Lodi, CA
James Staub
Heritage Bag Company Roanoke, TX
E & G Catering CentralPoint, OR
Ann Lee Concessions Lake City, FL
The Thomas Hodson Company Louisville, KY One Sweet World Amusements Portland, OR
Jodi Dirksen
Duke's LLC Centerville, MN
Jim's Concessions Springville, NY Stiffler Concessions LLC Red Oak, TX
Tammy Stiffler
Stiffler Concessions LLC Red Oak, TX
F & W Caterers Portland, OR
Nick Taulelle
Taulelle Concessions Saint Michael, MN
Fun Riders Rentals El Toro, CA
Ingo Van Styn
Euroshine USA Inc. Brooksville, FL
R.P. Concessions Sarasota, FL Nino's Equipment Schenectady, NY
Welcome to all 36 of our New Members! See page 45 for the final 2018 Coca-Cola Membership Contest Leaderboard. “Together We Can!”
This Month’s Member Renewals Deborah Amos
Big Onion Concession Nashport, OH (2002)
Wesley Boyd Bierwirth
Mark Baugher
Patricia Blomsness
Rod Beach
Larry Boles
Southern Guild Bushnell, FL (1993)
Universal Concessions, Inc. Granby, MA (2012)
Mark Becker
Rich Brander
Matt Buchanan
Lee Amos
Bartlebaugh Amusement, Inc. Madisonburg, PA (2012)
Nikki Bair
Carousel Concessions Middletown, MD (1999)
Stacey Barona
Beach Concessions Hillsdale, MI (1995)
Michael Barr
Becker Concessions, LLC Waterloo, IA (1996)
Big Onion Concession Nashport, OH (2002) Bair’s Concessions, Inc. Lancaster, OH (1996) Giant Ride, Inc. Roseville, MN (2015) Celebration Services, Inc. Ridgefield, WA (2014)
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Sheila Bartlebaugh
January / February 2019 NICA News
Brad Bennett
Bennett Concessions Kokomo, IN (1997)
Wesley Stevens Concessions Oklahoma City, OK (2013) JPB Colleyville, TX (2011)
Brander Enterprises, Inc. Santa Margarita, CA (2007)
Teresa Brander
Brander Enterprises, Inc. Santa Margarita, CA (2015)
Todd Brauch
Happy D. Klown, LLC Lincoln, NE (2008)
Jeffrey Brick
North Carolina Mountain State Fair Fletcher, NC (2011)
►► “Renewals” continued on page 8
The The Passing Passing of of the the gavel gavel Dan Lusenhop, 2018 President
First and foremost, I need to simply say “Thank You!” to every NICA Member for allowing me the privilege of serving as your President over this past year. In my travels this last season, I had several opportunities to reach out to a variety of members and listen to the scope of concerns and some praise for solutions. I quickly realized, “Never forget about the members that we serve!” It is the time-honored tradition to pass the gavel and to celebrate new leadership. Mrs. Kathy Ross is primed and ready to take the charge and is eager to serve as our new President. As I look back over the last year, I am proud of what our association has continued to accomplish during my term. Increased scholarships of both traditional and vocational awards to a total of $25,000 in 2018; I am looking forward to increased momentum to develop additional funding each year—truly an investment in our Industry’s future!
“Together We Can!”
We continue to build lasting bonds with our Sister Organizations, such as IAFE, OABA, SLA, and WFA to strengthen a presence to help develop educational forums and lend a voice to Industry challenges. This is aided by participation in Zone Meetings, along with many State Associations. Our focus to grow the Regional Council platform with Stategic Planning: the newly formed Southeast Council is on its feet, the Northeast Council continues to strengthen its presence, and the West Council is still moving strong! It takes a real team to support this Organization and the Board of Directors to keep us moving forward with meetings, convention planning, and daily office duties. Executive Director Michelle Card, under the Board’s direction, has orchestrated the staff with multiple ongoing projects, continues to monitor common issues
►► “Gavel” continued on page 7
Bringing in the new year Kathy Ross, 2019 President
incorporating food trends. A focus for NICA this year is Generation Forward, a committee formed As the Incoming President to address the needs of new Concessionaires that of NICA, I would like to invite are new to the business and to owner title with you to come to the NICA possible formation of a YPI-type sub-committee. Business Expo and Fare Foods The next generation of Concessionaires faces 2019 Food Show and use your different challenges than what we veterans did mind. After enjoying some time and our goal is to support them in their endeavors. off, celebrating the holidays With your input, we can share ideas and resolve with friends and family, it’s problems. The Annual Meeting is scheduled for time to get back in business Wednesday, February 6 at 4 PM with the Gala to mode. Focusing on member needs for education follow. This is an opportunity for you to join us in is the Expo’s purpose. The ever-changing DOT celebrating our 26th year. “Together We Can!” ▲ requirements, insurance options, and member benefits lead us to provide educational seminars on these topics. We have invited Fair Management “The object of education is not to fill a man’s to join us this year to share ideas about how to mind with facts; it is to teach him how to use his create Communication Committees, keeping mind in thinking.” —Henry Ford prices down, creating promotions that work and January / February 2019 NICA News
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Officers
2018 President: Dan Lusenhop 2019 President: Kathy Ross 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
Executive Manager of Councils: Rey O’Day 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
Gentry Miller
West Council
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
Fa re Foods
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January / February 2019 NICA News
Card’s Corner
“Thinking About the Future!”
in 1993. For over 25 years, NICA has and still successfully maintains an affordable and valuable annual membership fee. A monthly increase of At NICA, we are always approximately $2 per month will ensure NICA’s thinking about the future and how we can best represent our continued success. In 2018, NICA added the Southeast Council, current and future membership increased annual scholarship awards, updated as a voice in the Industry for Independent Concessionaires. the NICA website to allow for user friendly benefit enrollment, and continued their H-2B support. Now, as we enter our 26th With the extra funding, we will be able to sustain year of forward thinking and enforcing the NICA mission of and develop programs to the benefit of our strengthening relationships with the Fair, Festival membership and ensure our mission continues to and Special Event Industries through effective thrive. The NICA Board of Directors looks to drive communication, benefits, education, leadership leadership within the Organization to continue and solutions, it continues to be important that we our Voice in the Industry, provide scholarships to keep pace with an ever-changing world. attend the annual IAFE Convention, maintain and As the first Concession-founded and led grow our academic annual scholarship awards, national organization, NICA continues to evolve and the eventual development of the Heartland as a voice in the Industry for all Independent and Great Lakes Councils. Concessionaires. To ensure NICA has the We invite you to renew your membership resources to support its work, the Board of before March 1, 2019 at today’s rate to avoid the Directors has decided to increase the annual impending increase. Your renewal month will membership fee by $25 starting March 1, 2019 remain the same. Thank you for your continued for each level of membership. This is the 2nd support and your investment in the NICA mission. increase to the member fee since NICA’s inception “Together We Can!” ▲
Michelle Card, Executive Director
“Gavel” continued from page 5 ►►
I feel that NICA is ready for new growth, both in an increase in membership and the recruitment of that effect the Industry, and collaborates with future generations of leadership and talent. This other organizations to resolve them. Linda Frisco, is where we all come into play; don’t assume that who leads membership support, is the kind voice your fellow Vendors are current NICA Members. that answers your call to the NICA Office. The Invite them to NICA Rallies or other social events communications, graphics, and marketing are on and encourage those who are passionate about the shoulders of Jesse Willard; he develops the our Industry to volunteer for a Communications layout for NICA News and produces flyers for all Committee at a Fair they play or start by talking the ongoing events around the country. with a Board or Council Member in your region Rey O’Day, Executive Manager of Councils, has to see where there is a need! I took that first step become the “Goodwill Ambassador” for NICA, as to have a Voice to create change; I am proud to her travels hopscotch across the country to meet be the first NICA President that served from the NICA Members and Fair Managment alike. Rey Regional Council system up through the Chairs. tirelessly works on editorial content, educational As I transition into being a Past President, I programming, and strategic planning. Jessica am honored to join such an outstanding group of Gottsche is our Coordinator of both the Northeast individuals who have made NICA what it is today. and Southeast Councils, as well as NICA’s social I would like to thank my current Board of Directors media duties. Much thanks to you all for your for all their support and encouragement in the continued hard work and dedication that makes time we have served together. I will treasure this us continue to shine as an organization! experience; I am honored to serve you all. ▲ January / February 2019 NICA News
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“Renewals” continued from page 4 ►► Jacqueline Cammarano Erie County Fair Hamburg, NY (2013)
John Campbell
JSCM Concessions Dixon, CA (2007)
Eric Campbell
E.N. Campbell’s Concessions, Inc. Cummings, IA (2000)
Leon Carachilo
Carachilo, Inc. Hawley, PA (2009)
Michael Chambers
American Food Service Dade City, FL (2015)
Sandy Class
SAN-JON Enterprises Apollo Beach, FL (2013)
Vicki Clements
Triple Treat Shows, Inc. Cincinnati, OH (1996)
Clark Converse
Pasco County Fair Association, Inc. Dade City, FL (2009)
Erin Dale-Magdaleno
Country Fair Cinnamon Rolls Coarsegold, CA (2015)
Herbert Decker
Milo & Son Enterprise, Inc. Pilot Hill, CA (2012)
Lynn Freeman
Western Illinois Fair Griggsville, IL (2011)
Richard George
George’s Fun Foods Gibsonton, FL (1993)
Lucas Gobeli
Great Jones County Fair Monticello, IA (2015)
Doug Guinsler
Carousel Concessions Zanesville, OH (1996)
Doug Hansen
Hansen’s Amusement Foods Fergus Falls, MN (1993)
Becky Harmon
Harmons Concessions Mt. Olivet, KY (2007)
Duane Hickman, CCE Quality Concessions Kiel, WI (1998)
David Higginbottom
Televac Products Versailles, MO (2017)
Paul Dobos
J. Keith Hoover
Jeffrey Dunham
Cousins Confections Youngsville, NC (2013)
Gene Edick
Brogdon Concessions Oceanside, CA (2013)
Billy Fickling, Sr.
McKinney Food Services Hughes Springs, TX (1993)
Pal Fontana
Fontana Foods Cape Coral, FL (2011)
Randy Forcier
Fair Goodies, LLC St. Cloud, MN (2008)
John Ford
Ford Foods English, IN (1993)
January / February 2019 NICA News
Robert Monroe
Jim Johnson
Stacia Markowitz
Jenks Concessions, Inc. Vale, NC (2013) Johnson Concessions / Southern Tier Show Salamanca, NY (2017)
Joseph Kastl
J&A Food LLC Leap of Faith Adventures, Inc. Phoenix, AZ (2018) dba JK Dots Brian Keller Vista, CA (2005) Florida State Fair
Jan Gary
Chesapeake Food Concessions Baldwin, MD (1993)
Dobos Concessions, Inc. Linden, MI (1995)
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Milo Franks
Bobby Jenks
Pork Chop Express Adairville, KY (2013)
Tasha Hyder
Clay County Fair Association, Inc. Green Cove Springs, FL (2009)
Cathy Ivory
Famous Gabby’s, Inc. Brooksville, FL (2003)
Charles Ivory, CCE
Famous Gabby’s, Inc. Brooksville, FL (1993)
Nathan Janousek
Fun Biz Concessions, Inc. New Braunfels, TX (2014)
Stephanie Janousek
Fun Biz Concessions, Inc. New Braunfels, TX (2009)
Tampa, FL (1993)
Rebecca Kelley
L.T. Concessions, Inc. Marion, IN (2007) Mike’s Concessions Inglis, FL (1996)
George Martin
Billies Baked Potatoes, Inc. East Otis, MA (2015)
Mark Massey
Massey Concessions Germantown, KY (2009)
James McConnell
Sysco Corporate Houston, TX (2015)
James McConnell Concessions Indianola, IA (2016)
Frank King
Mechelle McKinney
Mike Kinnear
Shawn McKinney
Scott Kozelka
Daniel McLean
James Kropp
Wayne McMurtry
King’s Food Service Herrin, IL (2003) Dawghouse Concessions Des Moines, IA (2000) Steele County Free Fair Owatonna, MN (1995) Kropp Enterprises, Inc. Green Bay, WI (2000)
McKinney Food Services Hughes Springs, TX (2016) McKinney Food Services Hughes Springs, TX (1995) Almond Garten Harlan, IN (2011)
Todd Kunz
Pizza Point Concessions, Inc. Bayard, NE (2018)
David Langenbach
Mel’s Food Milltown, IN (1994)
Jeff Langlois
Miller Concessions, Inc. Foley, MN (2013)
Philippe Lefour
Siskiyou Golden Fair Yreka, CA (2014)
Timothy Lisko
M & M Product Marketing Redondo Beach, CA (2008)
James Malmquist
Ormic Concessions, Inc. Brownsville, TX (1998)
Sherrie Martin
O’Brien’s Food Service Enterprises Inc. Valrico, FL (2018)
Galaxy Amusement Sales Tampa, FL (2017) Quality Concessions Altamont, NY (2018) The Langlois Company Mira Loma, CA (2014) European Imports Arlington Heights, IL (2017) Triple L Concessions Lowellville, OH (2017) Key’s Koncessions Southwest Ranches, FL (2014)
Melvin Melton
Robbi Miller
Cliff Munson
Ashley Murray
Mickey Neck
Cody O’Brien
Marshall County Blueberry Festival Plymouth, IN (2009)
Mick Orosz
Rick Martinez
Pete Holohan
R & K Concession LLC Glendale, AZ (2017)
Hoover Concession Salem, OH (2009) Good Source Solutions, Inc. Carlsbad, CA (2014)
Michael Peterson
Brad Ribar, CCE
Lee Stevens
Rory Tipsword
Russell Phillips
Jay Rounds
Tom Stroud
Keith Tompkins
Mark Piche
Mike Rutana
David Strum
Keith’s Restaurant & Concession Equipment Rock Falls, IL (2012)
Lance Sturgeon
The Silhouette Shop Fairland, OK (2017)
Jim Swain
Dawghouse Concessions Johnston, IA (2015)
Bacon-A-Fair Valley Center, CA (2007)
Loret Foods White Bear, MN (1994)
Russell’s Concessions Daingerfield, TX (2014)
Jake’s Foods LLC Goshen, IN (2017)
Piche Concessions Ware, MA (2015) Eddie Shore Enterprises, Inc. Agawam, MA (2005)
Amy Powers
Sal Serio
Sal’s T-Shirt Company Gulf Breeze, FL (1993)
Patrick Sheridan
Sweet and Salty Concessions, LLC Wilmington, NC (1999)
CAS Concessions Avon, CO (2013)
Alex Simeonidis
Randy Reichert, CCE
Meggers Road Concessions, Inc. dba Hot Wisconsin Cheese Kiel, WI (1993)
Tracy Reichert
Stroud Ent. Linden, CA (2007)
Rutana Concessions New Springfield, OH (2003)
Jeff Pokorny
Meggers Road Concessions, Inc. Kiel, WI (1995)
Julees, LLC Gibsonton, FL (2014)
Santa Lucia Concessions West Fargo, ND (2017)
Pretzel Factory Aurora, CO (2002) Jack’s Shack N. Ft. Myers, FL (2016)
Hoelting Food Service, Inc. Decatur, IL (2004)
Ron Waggoner
Vanessa Warren
Swain’s Pizza On A Stick, Inc. William Webster Crystal River, FL (1995) Webster Enterprises Spring, TX (2017) Jimmy Swain Swain’s Concessions Crystal River, FL (2008)
Nona Wessel
Wayne Smith
Libby Swain
Wessel Propane, Inc. Baldwin Park, CA (2016)
Max Stabel
Jeff Thornberry, CCE
Rawlings Concessions Orland, CA (2014)
Tom’s Tasty Taters Plymouth, IN (2004)
Swain’s Concessions Crystal River, FL (2015)
Ranch House Concessions LLC Menard, TX (2018)
Pristine Systems, Inc. DBA Gadgets and Neat Stuff St. George, UT (2012)
April Wood
Thank you to all 115 Renewal Members for your support! “Together We Can!”
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866.674.7749 January / February 2019 NICA News
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DirectorS’ Directors’ VoiceS
In an effort to start this new year on a positive and productive note, we have given the floor to NICA’s Board of Directors to voice their opinion about topics that are important to them, including NICA’s Membership Benefits, the CCE Program, NICA’s H-2B legislative history, and more.
Save with NICA’s Membership Benefits
We also have vocational scholarships they can apply for as well. Go to the NICA fundraisers Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, Director at your Fairs—support them and/or donate to them. These fundraisers are for the basis of NICA Every year, Directors are scholarships and if successful, a portion of the asked to submit an article; we profits are donated to a foundation at the Fair you are all given one month of the are participating at. It takes a little time to make year. At this time, all Directors were asked to submit an article the most of your membership, but I encourage all to go in our big issue before our members to look into the benefits now. Sign up for Check Inn Direct, Hertz and the other benefits NICA Business Expo. NICA has worked very hard to get for you. If there My article is on member is a benefit you would like, contact the NICA Office benefits and is one that I or any Director and we will see if we can make it have written about before. Our membership is work. In this ever-changing world and Industry we the cheapest in the Industry and the benefits are need eachother and being a NICA Member means geared towards our Concessionaires, which is ”Together We Can (Not Alone)!” I will conclude what NICA stands for—the National Independent with this quote I love: “Never see a need without Concessionaires Association. doing something about it.” —St. Mary McKillop When joining NICA as a Regular Member, you automatically get a $10,000 AD&D insurance Certified Concessionaire Executive policy. The main benefits I use are Sysco, as I Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, Director get bulk buying power and great service. You also may not know it, but if you are looking to When I first joined NICA, put a new item on your menu as a NICA Member and soon after became part and Sysco customer, you can go to their main of the NICA West Council, I warehouse where Sysco has state-of-the-art test was told by the West Council kitchens and professional chefs. They will not only Coordinator Rey O’Day that help you create a new item or topping; you are I HAD to apply for my CCE. I treated like royalty. It’s a must! Make sure you give think she said, “I want you to them plenty of notice, but go now or well before apply,” but I heard, “I had to,” so your season as the test kitchen is in high demand I did. for all Sysco customers. The next benefit I use is I really had no idea what CCE was but I First Data where we get the best rate possible. went to the NICA website and printed out the The Sherwin Williams paint discount is a trade application and started filling it out. I didn’t seem rate, so keep your NICA card on you so you can to have some of the requirements needed, so I always get the benefit. In the last three years, skipped several sections and kept on going. The my husband and I have saved $4,000 with the application sat on my desk for a while until one NICA Ford Fleet discount and our granddaughter day SanDee O’Brien, CCE called me from the NICA has received the top NICA scholarships twice Office about a different NICA question and during ($4,000 both in 2016 and 2018); we all were our conversation the CCE Program came up. I told totally shocked when Isabella received her second her about some of my lack of requirements which scholarship. NICA Members, if you have a child, grandchild, niece, or nephew who works in the ►► “Voices” continued on page 18 Industry, encourage them to apply (it’s free). 10
January / February 2019 NICA News
See You in Tampa! Audrey Poole, Fare Foods NICA and Fare Foods have partnered once again to produce one of the most talked about events of 2019. The NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods 2019 Food Show will be held February 4th, 5th, and 6th at the Sheraton Tampa East Hotel in Tampa, Florida. We are excited to bring such an event during Florida Week. Last year’s event was over-the-top, and the 2019 event will be even better. NICA is focusing on several new workshops that will benefit the Concessionaire. NICA has done a tremendous job over the years bringing new ideas and benefits to the Industry. Check out the next few pages for more information on the event. Fare Foods will be producing the Food Show and bringing new exhibitors and expanding the
show. We, at Fare Foods, are tremendously excited about our continued partnership with NICA. Fare Foods has been affiliated with NICA for over 20 years producing and creating the Food Show. What an honor it has been to be a part of such a prestigious organization, and we are very grateful for the opportunity. The Food Show has become one of the most talked about events during Florida Week and 2019 will be even better. We have a big event planned and a lot of surprises you don’t want to miss. 2019 marks Fare Foods’ 25th year in business, delivering to America’s Amusements since 1994. The philosophy at Fare Foods has always been, “the customer’s company.” Without the continued support of our customers, we would not exist. We strive every day to service the customer’s needs to the best of our ability. ▲
WE DELIVER! With our warehouses centrally located in Tampa, Florida and the Midwest, Fare Foods is able to deliver to events on site in 44 different states. Our customers value our friendly customer service and appreciate consistent delivery of product to their events throughout the year.
1994-2019
YEARS Delivering Great Service For 25 Years
COMPLETE SUPPLY OF ALL CONCESSION PRODUCTS! Meat Produce Frozen Items Dry Goods Canned Goods Paper Products Fun Food Custom Printed Cups
Call Today! 1-800-651-1601 January / February 2019 NICA News
11
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 2019 Food Show will feature exhibitors showcasing the
latest food trends and technology that will define the 2019 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 look forward to seeing you in Tampa
12
January / February 2019 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.
January / February 2019 NICA News
13
NICA Business Expo & Fare Foods 2019 Food Show February 4th, 5th & 6th, 2019 Preliminary Schedule* Sunday, February 3rd
6:00 - 11:00 PM: “Super Bowl Party” Hosted by Fare Foods (Palm Room)
Monday, February 4th
8:30 - 9:30 AM: “Soda Parts, Equipment, and Repair” Presented by Mike Curci, Soda Parts Express (Brandon 2) 9:45 - 10:45 AM: “Vendor Safety” Presented by Phil Teague, Hummel Group (Brandon 2) 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM: “Ask an Insurance Agent” Presented by Phil Teague, Hummel Group, Steck Johnson, Healthcare Solutions, and Steve Delvecchio, Allied Specialty Insurance (Brandon 4) 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM: ”Nutella” Presented by Ferrero (Brandon 2) 1:00 - 2:00 PM: “Payment Processing” Presented by Tina Hollis, First Data (Brandon 2) 2:00 - 3:15 PM: “New Techniques & Food Items” Presented by Fare Foods (Brandon 2) 5:00 PM: Ribbon Cutting 5:00 - 9:00 PM: “Food Show” Presented by Fare Foods (Ballroom) 9:00 PM: “Hospitality Suite” Hosted by Fare Foods (Palm Room)
Tuesday, February 5th
8:30 - 9:30 AM: “Generation Forward” Presented by Kathy Ross, Incoming President (2nd Floor Overlook) 9:30 - 10:45 AM: “Communications Committees / The Nationwide Buzz of Having One” Panel featuring Tom Hodson, CCE, Past President, Jessica Underberg, Erie County Fair, and Kathy Kramer, OC Fair (Palm Room) 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM: “What Keeps Prices Down / What Keeps Food Prices from Being Overpriced at Your Fair?” Panel featuring Russ Harrison, CCE, Past President, Greg Chiecko, The Big E, and James Roamer, North Carolina State Fair (Palm Room) 1:15 - 2:30 PM: “Promotions that Work / Promotions that Increase Attendance—
*Schedule is preliminary and subject to change; see event program and signage or visit www.nicainc.org for any changes.
14
January / February 2019 NICA News
NICA Business Expo & Fare Foods 2019 Food Show February 4th, 5th & 6th, 2019 Tuesday, February 5th (cont.)
Fair & Concession Partnerships that Impact the Gate” Panel featuring Vicki Chouri, Southeast Florida Fair, Kevin McGrath, II, The Best Around, and Jacqueline Cammarano, Erie County Fair (Palm Room) 2:45 - 4:45 PM: “Food Trends” Panel (Palm Room) 5:00 - 9:00 PM: “Food Show” Presented by Fare Foods (Ballroom) 9:00 PM: “Hospitality Suite” Hosted by Fare Foods (Palm Room)
Wednesday, February 6th
9:00 - 10:30 AM: “DOT” (Cypress Room) 10:45 - 11:45 AM: “NICA Benefits” Roundtable (Palm Room) 12:00 - 2:00 PM: “Past Directors Luncheon & Past Presidents Meeting” (Palm Room) 2:30 - 4:00 PM: “H-2B & H-2B Audits” Presented by Michael Wood, Gregg Hartley, and EJ Dean, OABA (Cypress Room) 4:00 - 6:00 PM: “General Membership Meeting” Presented by NICA (Cypress Room) 7:00 - 9:00 PM: “Annual Gala” Hosted by NICA (Ballroom)
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
January / February 2019 NICA News
15
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 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
16
January / February 2019 NICA News
See you in Gibtown!
“Voices” continued from page 10 ►► prompted her to ask me a few questions about different things I was involved in. I started to realize I was more involved in my community and our Industry than I first thought. Some examples were PTA events and other school-related programs I had attended and been involved in with my wife at our local schools. There had also been charity fundraising events, church, community, Fair Board, and Concession planning meetings I had attended. At the end of our conversation I went back to the application and filled in all of the blanks. The CCE Certification doesn’t make you a better Concessionaire—you already are. It highlights your achievements and commitment to your community and our Industry. For most of us, helping the Fair Industry thrive, helping our fellow Concessionaires, and giving back to our communities is a way of life. The CCE Certification makes you aware of your achievements in life and lets others know of your commitment to our Industry. I strongly encourage all of you to look at the application, see what you have done in our Industry and possibly what more you can still do. The standards required to meet the CCE Certification are high but not unattainable to anyone. I think this standard is something we should all try to strive for in our everyday lives so please fill out the form (www.nicainc.org/cce) and enjoy your successes in life.
Belonging to Multiple Organizations Richie George, Director What is the benefit of being a member of multiple Organizations in our Industry? From my experience, it gives you a broader perspective of whats happening in the Industry as a whole. There are many wonderful organizations that we have access to. For example, there are business organizations that give us a voice and keep us abreast of what is happening in and around our business. Then we have great social clubs across 18
January / February 2019 NICA News
the United States that gives us a chance to network with other folks in our Industry. The main thing is being involved, our Industry is very unique the best way to describe it is as “one big family.” I would like to encourage everyone to get involved on some level. Have a great season!
Professional Voice in the Industry Kathy Ross, 2019 President As chair of the Voice Committee, I am proud to share the update on our accomplishments for 2018. I would also like to thank my Committee for their work: Tim O’Brien, CCE, Jay “Rocko” Russell, Richie George, Rick Busse, CCE, Russ Harrison, CCE, Jessica Gottsche, Jesse Willard, Michelle Card, and Dan Lusenhop. Because NICA desires to be recognized as a professional leader in the Event Industry, NICA will provide solutions for Industry issues at convention workshops, provide well thought out procedures and solutions to industry regulatory concerns, partner with Fair Management to create Communication Committees that work in a spirit of cooperation to make decisions for the good of all involved, commit to using high tech, social media, and publishing outlets to communicate with members, and agree the Board of Directors’ Members will participate in at least one state or zone panel or workshop annually. NICA presented two sessions at the recent IAFE Convention in San Antonio, TX. “Promotions that make a Positive Impact” and “What is the right Mix of Food at your Event?” Both sessions were very well attended and great conversations followed each session. The NICA Office was instrumental in the Ohio Department of Health change in its ruling on the Person in Charge requirements for Mobile Food Establishments. Please share any regulatory changes that will impact our industry with NICA so that we may assist in changing these rulings. Communication Committees have been a part of NICA from the beginning; they work directly with Fair Administrators and some of the biggest accomplishments this year included a Vendor deposit fee waived at Orange County Fair and
a reduction in rent percentage at Los Angeles and Alameda County Fairs. If you participate in a Communications Committee at your Fairs, thank you for your service. If you don’t, please reach out to the NICA Office and we can help you get one started at your next event. The Communications Committee brochure was updated this year to continue NICA’s new branding. Jessica Gottsche serves as the Northeast and Southeast Council Coordinator and is also the Social Media Coordinator for NICA. In an attempt to reach the membership by all social media avenues, she has been the driving force behind the NICA Facebook page and Twitter pages. She helped develop the standard operating procedure for social media posts and a Facebook ad to increase our followers. When you see a NICA Facebook post, please like and share that post to help increase our abilities to share pertinent Industry-related information to the membership and beyond. You may have also noticed the reprint of magazine articles from the archives; the Committee felt the reflection of the articles from 25 years ago will help to show our progress and bring back fond memories of our forefathers. NICA has and will be very active in the 2018/2019 Fair Convention scene. Having representation nationwide has been the goal of NICA for many years and this year is no exception. Maine, New York, Massachusetts/ Connecticut/Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Virginia, Illinois, Minnesota, Wisconsin, WFA, IAFE, California, and Utah conventions will have NICA represented with trade show booths, sessions, roundtables, and sponsorship. Plan to join your Board and other members as we network at these events and promote NICA. I am proud to have chaired this Committee and look forward to the future of NICA in 2019.
A Director’s Farewell Tim O’Brien, CCE, Director Hi everyone, it’s been a great run for me and very rewarding to have been part of the NICA Board of Directors three times. My term ends in February and I just want you to know that I will miss working with the Board of Directors and the staff. I have met so many
great people in this Industry. I am passing the torch after 40 years in this business to my son and nephew to carry on in this Industry as it was passed to me. I am extremely confident that I have passed on the non-spoken or old school rules of a Concessionaire to my son Cody and my nephew Jody. My family has been involved in this Industry since 1948 and NICA since its inception. This business has many challenges and I know NICA has helped educate the powers that be to these issues. Some of these issues they have helped us with and some of them were kicked down the road only to resurface a short time later. I truly believe that without NICA being involved for all these years, it would be way different. It’s hard to know when to let go; you just must believe someone will carry the torch after you. Thank you to my wife and my son for picking up the slack when I was on the Board calls and meetings. Thank you, my friends and family, I will see you somewhere down the road again.
Benefits Committee Year in Review Don Delahoyde, CCE, Vice President The NICA Benefits Committee launched new opportunities this year that are gaining momentum to include FREE Classified Ads for Fairs seeking Concessionaires (see page 31) and a renewed five-year contract to lock in National Pricing with Pepsi (see Michelle’s article on page 20). Greg Worth of Crystal Automotive has recently announced they have added Ford products and will soon provide the details of the benefits to NICA Members. 2018 was NICA’s 25th Anniversary and to celebrate, NICA offered increased scholarship awards to $25,000! With the new application to apply streamlined and now 100% online, 39 applicants took advantage of the increased awards and simplified application process. We are always researching new benefit opportunities to bring to the membership and we welcome your thoughts and suggestions.
►► “Voices” concluded on pages 20-21 January / February 2019 NICA News
19
MA. The Council is planning on a Rally this upcoming season as well; we would like if all of members that are in the area stop by. Details Please contact the NICA Office if you have benefit to follow in future issues and email blasts. Also ideas to share! I would like to thank Erica Quintero, planning on a bowling fundraiser. We hope our Kevin McGrath, CCE, Gayle McGrath, CCE, Mike members support our outings; we do like to see Pence, CCE, Greg Miller, CCE, Dan Lusenhop, and you all. Bring a non-member and we will try to Michelle Card for their time and participation on sign them up. All are always welcome! the 2018 Benefits Committee. Members of the Northeast Council have been busy in our off-season with members visiting NICA Secures Pepsi National Pricing State Conventions for NY, MA, CT, RI, ME, and the IAFE Convention in San Antonio, TX. We are also Michelle Card, Executive Director planning a big fundraising raffle this year; details NICA is committed to to follow since we are still in the planning stage. continually providing benefits The Northeast Council will be going in to to its members and has its fourth year in June. We are looking forward recently secured National to signing up and renewing as many members Pricing with Pepsi for an as we can. We could not get this all done with additional five years, effective out our Northeast Council Members: Cameron immediately. Linda Frisco, Murray, Chester’s Gators and Taters, Lindsey NICA’s Membership Manager, Constantine, Red’s Red Apples, Henry Mitchell, and Kelly Bisbey, Pepsi Amy’s Sweet Treats, Kelly Grout, Jack’s Fries, National Account Representative, and I have Vinnie Nelson, Vinnie’s Fine Foods, Eddie Porcelli, worked closely this year to ensure this benefit was III, Spaghetti Eddie, and Jessica Gottsche, Council renewed for 2019 going forward. I would like to Coordinator. I cannot leave out Tonio Viscusi, recognize both Linda and Kelly for their tireless Angela’s International, who was one of our original efforts for the benefit of NICA Members. members. Tonio helped kickstart many of our I wrote this announcement in December and events and fundraisers. His term on the Northeast the National Price for Pepsi was .65 per gallon. Council ended this fall, and we thank him for his The rate will increase slightly in January but service. If you have any interest serving on a will remain significantly lower than retail. NICA Council, please reach out to one of us. Members who utilize the Pepsi program will also have the continued opportunity to submit for the NICA’s H-2B Legislative Timeline annual rebate at the close of each year. Jay “Rocko” Russell, Assistant Treasurer Pepsi and NICA will continue to work on streamlining the processes of using the National Fellow NICA Members, Pricing agreement and the Member Rebate we prepare to start a new programs. “Together We Can Save!” year and another season. As anyone who watches the Northeast Council Year in Review news can see, we are facing even more turbulence in Vincent Nelson, Director the political arena as illegal Our 2018 season is done immigration is a top issue. and we’re planning for a great The H-2B Visa Program is 2019! We had a solid 2018—we often a victim to knee jerk reactions from both signed up many New Members sides of the political spectrum. It actually has this year. Henry Mitchell from nothing to do with the preceding issue. Both the Amy’s Sweet Treats signed H-2A and H-2B Visa Programs have their place the most, bringing seven New in a country with record low unemployment. Members to the organization. The Amusement Industry, as well as agriculture, We held our Third Annual needs a reliable seasonal workforce to survive. Rally at The Big E Fairgrounds in West Springfield, There just isn’t enough unemployed people to fill
“Voices” continued from page 10 ►►
20
January / February 2019 NICA News
NICA’s H-2B Legislative Timeline Part 1*
August
Operations are going to have to work together to increase our political clout for the betterment of our Industry. Remember, “Together We Can!”
October
the demands for our seasonal businesses. The key leader in this fight is the OABA through their efforts of PAC funds and lobbyists to help pass meaningful legislation. NICA has helped support the OABA by forming alliances to make changes and donating over $35,000 over the last few years. While it’s a nice sum, it is not enough. We are running out of time to get a permanent fix. I assure you that just because your operation may not use H-2B employees, it is still important. It will have a devastating effect on the Fair Industry if the Carnivals can’t get H-2B’s. So please try to see the big picture. To be successful, Fairs, Independent Concessionaires, and Carnival
Present: Kevin Koski, CCE, Greg Miller, CCE, Jim Hodson, CCE, Rick Pachell, Ed Porcelli, CCE, Rick Busse, CCE, Russ Harrison, CCE, Mark Hill, CCE
“Bob Johnson, President of OABA, spoke to the board about the labor situation in regard to hours of operation, H-2B Programs, J-l Visas, and the need for the Fair Industries to work together to lobby and deal with these issues. The other point was to get State Laws to recognize the Federal Laws regarding overtime rules and minimum wage. It is important to have representation at the state conventions, especially New York.”
May
2010
Present: Tim O’Brien, CCE, Jim Hodson, CCE, Tom Hodson, CCE, Gayle McGrath, CCE, Randy Reichert, CCE, Ron Smith, Rick Pachell, Russ Harrison, CCE, Rick Busse, Mark Hill, Dave Schlabach, CFE, Tom Sattler, CCE, Kevin Koski, CCE
“Bob Johnson is working hard with the issues in New York State. He is putting together a PAC. The PAC is asking for $25 donations. The State of New York has pulled away a lot of their support. Many labor issues exist as well.”
Decemeber
2012
“NICA will sign on with the IAFE and OABA in a letter to Congress asking for the extension of the H-2B Visa Program. This combined teamwork will help all of the Fair Industry.”
July
January
2008
Summarized from NICA Board Meeting Minutes
Present: Kevin Koski, CCE, Tom Hodson, CCE, Tom Sattler, CCE, Rick Pachell, Greg Miller, CCE, Randy Reichert, CCE, Rick Busse, CCE, Melody Hodson, CCE, David Penn, Russ Harrison, CCE, Mike Kennedy, CCE, Joe Potillo, Jr.
Part 2 will follow in the March 2019 issue of NICA News.
*
2013
“A labor issues presentation will be given Friday, February 11 at the Embassy Suites. It is part of the OABA Convention.”
Present: Russ Harrison, CCE, Randy Reichert, CCE, Tony Trafton, CCE, Gayle McGrath, CCE, Greg Miller, CCE, David Penn, Joe Potillo, Jr., Tom Sattler, CCE, Frank Parnell, CCE
“OABA’s Bob Johnson and Bob Grem met with the NY Department of Labor and had a positive meeting regarding the H-2B Visa and labor laws situation.” Present: Russ Harrison, CCE, Greg Miller, CCE, Tony Trafton, CCE, Gayle McGrath, CCE, Tom Sattler, CCE, Joe Potillo, Jr., David Penn, Randy Reichert, CCE, Tim O’Brien, CCE, Paulette Keene, CCE, Don Kenna, Rosie Ash, Justin Sattler
“Executive Director Barbara Hensinger updated the Board on the need to be involved with J-l Visa program and the communications that have been sent to the NICA Membership on this issue. President Greg Miller, CCE reviewed the urgent need to support the OABA’s attorney to assist the Industry in stopping the proposed Federal regulations and the emergency action taken by the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee would like the full Board’s support of this action. MOTION by Tom Sattler, CCE and seconded by Tim O’Brien, CCE for the full Board to approve of the motion passed by the Executive Committee. That motion is as follows: Tim O’Brien, CCE moved, and Tom Sattler seconded due to the urgent need the Executive Committee to approve the immediate authorization to enter into a partnership with the OABA and their legal counsel to assist in the national effort to change the proposed US Department of State regulations prohibiting the placement of J-1 Students with Carnivals and Concessionaires. The cost to NICA is $6500. Further, the Executive Committee directs the Executive Director to contact those members who use J-1 students and interested State Associations to seek financial assistance to offset part of this cost. Motion carried unanimously. Tony Trafton, CCE recommended that the NICA News for June be delayed in publication so that we can add information about the J-1 Visa fight and NICA’s proactive actions. The Board Members agreed. Barbara will draft articles and make the adjustments.” Present: Greg Miller, CCE, Tom Sattler, CCE, Tim O’Brien, CCE, Joe Potillo, Jr., David Penn, Russ Harrison, CCE, Tony Trafton, CCE, Don Kenna, Rosie Ash, Paulette Keene, Justin Sattler, Barbra Hensinger, CFE
April
January
2011
Present: Kevin Koski, CCE, Tom Hodson, CCE, Tom Sattler, CCE, Rick Pachell, Mark Hill, CCE, Greg Miller, CCE, Randy Reichert, CCE, Rick Busse, CCE, Melody Hodson, CCE, David Penn, Russ Harrison, CCE, Mike Kennedy, CCE, Joe Potillo, Jr., Dave Schlabach, CFE
“Fundraising Brockton Fair: Joe Potillo, Jr. and Russ Harrison, CCE Signed up two new members during the Fair, super raffle tickets sold and passed out, and obtained verbal commitments concerning the PAC for labor in New York State.”
“Labor continues to one of the main concerns. We need to continue to be in touch with Bob Johnson, at OABA.” Present: Tom Sattler, CCE, David Penn, Joe Potillo, Jr., Paulette Keene, David Kenna, Stacia Markowitz, Tim O’Brien, CCE, Tony Trafton, CCE, Alta Mosley, Rey O’Day
January / February 2019 NICA News
21
Making First Impressions Rey O’Day, Executive Manager of Councils On a cool winter evening I walked from my hotel to the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas and entered through big glass doors into a large lobby with glass walls and a high ceiling. I could see daylight whenever I wanted to and the air was not filled with smoke and slot machine noise. We were not in Vegas anymore! Several years ago IAFE was faced with the challenge of moving their convention (which we all affectionately called “Vegas” because we had been going there for decades) to a new venue. As Jim Tucker told me, “Vegas left IAFE”—everything became more and more expensive and the service became worse and worse. IAFE did not feel welcome in Vegas anymore. After an extensive search, San Antonio became the host city choice. I experience a convention from an organizational view point and a personal viewpoint. As an organization, NICA came to IAFE with many responsibilities and opportunities, and as an individual, I did as well. One of the many moments of serendipity comes as we arrive at airports and discover others who are also on the same flights. In my case, I arrived in Phoenix to discover the Palmieris, Bradburys, and Lopezes. It meant that Dominic Palmieri, CCE, Past President, and I had a lovely flight to San Antonio where we agreed not to talk about business. 22
January / February 2019 NICA News
The 2018 NICA Board of Directors at the IAFE Convention: Don Delahoyde, CCE, 2nd Vice President, Kathy Ross, 1st Vice President, Dan Lusenhop, President, Jennifer Giordano, Treasurer, Richie George, Director, Sandy Class, Secretary, Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, Director, Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, Director, Dominic Palmieri, CCE, Past President, Mike Pence, CCE, Director, Vincent Nelson, Director, Kevin McGrath, CCE, Director, Jay “Rocko” Russell, Assistant Treasurer, and Andrew “Bruno” Broomfield, Director
The IAFE Delegates were welcomed with a written message from NICA President Dan Lusenhop who challenged all of us to make Fairs more affordable and shared examples where that was happening. Our NICA Board of Directors (BOD) holds three face-to-face meetings each year and one of them is during the IAFE Convention. Tradition—it is where the first NICA BOD met 25 years ago. During a meeting that goes from 8:30 AM–5:30 PM, annual budgets are presented, strategic plans are updated, solutions are sought for ongoing concerns, and new ideas
are brought forward. During the BOD Meeting, several left to attend an educational session of special interest, and in the process, discovered the Power Talks and Campfire sessions that took place in the Ed Shed where a cacophony of short, thoughtful discussions occurred. We shared what we learned with each other when we returned to the Board Meeting. Sunday evening the IAFE Foundation hosted its annual fundraising event Raisin for a Reason to encourage all of us to financially support the many educational projects which IAFE provides. My favorite is the Institute of Fair Management where Industry leaders learn all the aspects of Fair Management so as to prepare to be more effective and knowledgeable Fair Managers. As a Trustee on that Board, I had the honor of welcoming our guests to this worthwhile event. Monday morning the BOD hit the ground running. In pairs, every one of them attended a Zone Meeting with a short summary of NICA’s work and a NICA News for everyone in the room. Then in full force, the “Blue Jackets” attended the General Session. While there, many read that at 2 PM the Trade Show opened, which also meant our NICA booth opened. It was in a perfect location across from registration, where attendees passed by on their way into or out of the Trade Show. Thank you to IAFE for gifting us the booth and space and to NICA Membership Manager Linda Frisco, our faithful NICA Members, and Board for staffing it during all the open hours of the Trade Show. Dinner was on our own. I ate dinner with Kathy Kramer, CEO of OC Fair and Events Center down on the Riverwalk to thank her for waiving pre-Fair Concession deposits, hosting the Fair Manager visit the Vendor “Day in the Life” event, and working on promotions that have made a positive impact on our members. Following the General Session on Tuesday morning, the Associate Members gathered to nominate NICA Past President Tom Hodson, CCE, to represent them on the IAFE BOD. One of the workshops that saw a plethora of NICA Members was the 10:30 AM Cashless Programs session, where once again I felt confirmed that NICA’s policy to accept payment in ANY form the Guest wants to pay is the correct position. Also the IAFE Concessions and Commercial Exhibits Committee, under the leadership of James Rosen, met. At that meeting, Jeff Thornberry, CCE, presented his
thought-provoking report on Commercial Exhibits programs. At 11:45 AM, NICA 1st Vice President Kathy Ross led the NICA-hosted workshop “Promotions That Have a Positive Impact.” NICA leadership submitted ideas from all over the country that increased attendance, increased revenue, or increased quality of life in the community. Those ideas were presented by Joshua Nicholson, Dr. Vegetable, Inc., Kevin McGrath, Jr., The Best Around, and AJ Ross, Ross Concessions. The session ended by encouraging Fairs to collaborate with their Concession Committees on future promotions. A handout listing a variety of promotions was distributed to all the attendees. Tuesday afternoon NICA hosted the annual NICA Sysco Marketplace Master Distribution Agreement Review. 454 accounts purchased $12,309,476 worth of groceries YTD in 2018. The total savings impact to our members was $553,247 in deviated savings or rebates. The most purchased item was smoked turkey drumsticks and the top five manufacturers were Good Source Solutions, Tyson Foods, Smithfield Foodservice, Group, McCain Foods, and The Kraft Heinz Company. Some of the new events included Sysco serving lunch to Concessionaires during move in at the Indiana State Fair and Tyson serving lunch to Concessionaires moving in at the San Diego County Fair. The nica.source1purchasing.com website page views are up 534% in 2018. Rebecca Kelly, Sysco VP of National Entertainment Accounts, and Emma Ryder, Source1 Purchasing Director of Business Development, oversee the ongoing work and success of this agreement. The meeting was followed by the NICAsponsored IAFE Happy Hour where NICA greeted attendees with a fun “step and repeat” and Executive Director Michelle Card welcomed our many guests from the stage. In addition to the happy hours, IAFE hosted several events that provided networking and socializing including “Lunch and Learn” where one could enjoy a lunch with other people who shared a variety of interests. Some members celebrated the incoming presidency of Guy Leavitt, RCS Shows, at the Showman’s League of America dinner and others went to dinner with the NICA Sysco Marketplace
►► “Impressions” continued on page 27 January / February 2019 NICA News
23
From Cutting Grass to Serving Food Fast! One Man’s Journey to Join the Generation Forward Michelle Card, Executive Director It is not every day the NICA Office comes across Concessionaires that are brand new to the Industry. Most come from generations of family in the Industry with many dating back over 50 years. Some acquired the family business, some come from the Carnival side, and some have gone to college to pursue different avenues, eventually returning to the Fair Industry. Kathy Ross, Ross Concessions and NICA’s Incoming President, was new to the Industry nearly 33 years ago. She and her husband, Jeff Ross, did not have the benefit of family within the Industry to guide them or teach them the ropes. They managed, often by learning the hard way. They admittingly made plenty of mistakes but also found their way to plenty of successes. Joining organizations such as NICA, IAFE, OABA and SLA provided them learning opportunities they wish they had 30 years ago. This experience encouraged Kathy to craft an idea that has developed into Generation Forward! Generation Forward is a newly launched NICA group of Concessionaires that are fresh to the Industry just as Kathy and Jeff were. This group has fortunately Generation Forward “Together We Can Be stumbled upon our Industry, the Future!” and as most of us do, immediately fell in love. Cameron Murray, a NICA Member and Northeast Council Representative is one of the fortunate. Cameron had an entrepreneurial spirit at the ripe age of eight-years-old and worked both the 24
January / February 2019 NICA News
Cameron Murray, Northeast Council Member and OwnerOperator of Chester’s Gators & Taters
Fair and Landscaping Industries. Eight-year-old Cameron landed a job working with his neighbor who owned a small Concession stand and started mowing lawns in the neighborhood. While working summers for his neighbor from the ages of eight to sixteen, Cameron had learned to cook and haul the stands. Ready to Eight-year-old Cameron’s incorporate a business Concession trailer at sixteen but too young to travel, Cameron chose to pursue a Landscaping business. By the age of sixteen, he had his first truck to haul his landscaping equipment. By the age of 23, he had been to college, attended continuing education courses for his business, bought a house and grew a Landscaping business to over 405 customers. When asked what the key is to his success, Cameron states, “customer service,
The first Chester’s Gaters & Tators trailer after Cameron decided to rekindle his love for the Concession business
doing what you say you’re going to do, hard work, and loyalty.” Though Cameron’s Landscaping business was thriving, something else was calling him. The Fair! With a desire to tackle a new challenge, Cameron wanted to go back to his eight-year-old days of selling gator and shark kabobs. His decision was brought on by the recession of 2008, and even though his landscape business was still thriving, he was motivated to diversify. He always had “fun” as a child working the Concessions and what stood out most in his mind was that the Concession business always “lingered.” Cameron went to work and developed a menu consisting of gator, shark, shrimp, and chicken as a core. He created his stand and eventually got accepted into twelve fairs, all while maintaining his continuously growing landscaping business. Working two businesses taught Cameron the similarities with both. Each are seasonal, require labor that is challenging to obtain and keep, and demand a high level of customer service. As Cameron found himself leaving a Fair on a Tuesday night to fly to another state for a Wednesday meeting for a Landscaping bid to then fly back to the Fair he had just left; he realized it was time to decide: Landscaping or Concessions? Cameron chose the Fair! Quickly, he learned that the Concession business is where his heart is. Cameron finetuned his menu, reduced his annual Fairs to
Cameron “remaking” a trailer for his first Fair as an adult
The second Chester’s Gaters & Tators stand was a major upgrade from Cameron’s first stand
eight and will finalize the sale of his Landscaping business in the coming months. In 2016, Cameron met Rey O’Day, Executive Manager of Councils, and they quickly made a strong connection. It didn’t take long before Jessica Gottsche, Northeast Council Coordinator, was acquainted with Cameron through Rey and encouraged him to join NICA’s Northeast Council. When asked if he has ambitions of running for the Board of Directors, Cameron states, “I am open to it. I support NICA 100% and before I can commit 100% to becoming a Board Member, I need to streamline my businesses to just Concessions.” NICA applauds Cameron for all his successes and appreciates his contributions to our Industry. We look forward to following his Concession career and welcome him to our NICA family. If you know Concessionaires that are new(er) to the Industry and a potential Generation Forward candidate, please forward their information to Kathy Ross, Incoming President, or me. We’d love to get to know them too! ▲
Cameron’s third Chester’s Gaters & Tators stand is the best yet, amplifying the visual aspects while adding seating January / February 2019 NICA News
25
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26 January / February 2019 NICA News WhirleyDrinkWorks.com/NICA
“Impressions” continued from page 23 ►► team at the Rhine, a San Antonio landmark. On Wednesday, it is NICA’s tradition to share a meal and conversation with the NICA Advisory Committee, a group of 12-14 selected Fair Managers from across the country who gather with the BOD to discuss future ideas and current observations. This meeting began with awarding Vince Agnifili, Oasis Aqua Massage, his CCE award. We are proud to say that Vince is the first Vendor to have been awarded both NICA’s CCE award as a Vendor and IAFE’s CFE award as a Fair Manager. Some of the things discussed this year included Environmental Impacts, Were Do Future Concessionaires Come From, Security, Safety and Money, Wi-Fi Capability on Fairgrounds, and the Value of Vendor Awards and Anniversary Programs. NICA is very grateful to this group of leaders who share their time and wisdom with us. The last session of convention workshops included NICA’s presentation of “What is the Right Mix of Food at Your Fair?” Dennis Larson, Minnesota State Fair (retired), and Rey O’Day,
Executive Manager of Councils, collaborated on topics including what non-food elements affect mix, the importance of knowing your top 10 selling items, balance of traditional and new food items, when duplication is appropriate, how to manage menus, data suggesting over-fooding and underfooding, and the suggestion that food choices be based on a simple restaurant menu concept. It should be mentioned that both NICA workshops had over 150 people in attendance in each one. After a wonderful year of leadership, Rick Vymlatil, CFE, South Florida Fair, gave over the gavel to Jessica Underberg, CFE, Erie County Fair. We are grateful that both of these leaders have been strong supporters of NICA. It was time to fly home and this time I flew to Phoenix with NICA Treasurer Jennifer Giordano and from Phoenix to home with Vince Agnifili, CCE. We concurred that IAFE President and CEO Marla Calico, CFE and her team took a huge, bold leap of faith and landed solidly on their feet with a convention of great content, numerous opportunities to socialize and network in a lovely, state of the art facility where we could all see daylight, and experience customer service friendliness from every direction. ▲
January / February 2019 NICA News
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Attention Members!
Are you taking advantage of all that NICA has to offer? One of the most important aspects of NICA is the access to benefits that we provide to our Membership. The NICA Office often reaches a member who has not been able to take advantage of these discounts, either due to not knowing about them or thinking that the benefit has too many steps. For those who may have had difficulty, we hear you loud and clear! To remedy this, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to our benefit partners and how to best utilize their discounts, rebates, or other deals as a NICA Member. No matter where you are in the country, you can have access to our membership benefits booklet in print or online editions—it’s meant to be used on the go! Of course, if there are any questions (or if the benefit requires you to), feel free to call the NICA Office at (813) 438-8926 and we can help! ▲
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January / February 2019 NICA News
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of automotive replacement parts AutoZone is a leading retailer and distributor over 5,000 company-owned locations and and accessories in the U.S., with over years, AutoZone has been committed $9.1 billion in sales. For more than 30 service in the automotive customer to providing the best parts, prices and industry. aftermarket discounted pricing on products and NICA Members are able to get special locations. To find your local store, visit services offered by AutoZone at its many the “Find a Store” section. www.autozone.com today and go to
Commercial Account Number
Provide your AutoZone items at any location; it can be t purchasing youryour when n1den e p found on the back e c. of NICA Membership Card. d In In , l n a n io t Natio socia ires As Save!” ssiona e c n o C e Can
automatically Every Regular and Employee Member l Death & receives access to $10,000 Accidenta when joining NICA. Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage
ther W “Toge
The Certified Conce ssionaire Executive (CCE) Dealer’s Pricing get develo program was recognize the profes NICA Members ped to sionalism of Concessiona shipping and retail) ires. off deep understanding The (30-40% title of CCE represents a and respect for the Fair of items and Festiva thousands that the titleholder will off ofl busine discounts ss and indicates perform with the highes from tby Distributing— level prestigious designation Arrow of sold profes sionali sm. This to is awarded after a detaile appliances d applica lighting, electrical, tionand proces s. The Concessionaire who is seeking the distinc awnings, hardware, accessories, and tion of CCE must, prior submitting their applica to tion, first meet the followi more! ng requirements: • The applicant must b View Arrow’s huge online catalog at e a cur of NICA and of one of the following ass rent member also a current member dist.com. ociations—Cwww.arrow AFE, IAFE, IFEA, O and/or at least one S ABA, or WFA tate or Province Ass ociation. • The applicant must h ave a minimum of 7 ye an ars as manager of an indep to create a full-time chi 438-8926 (813) at ef operating today Office enden NICA t concession busines Call the s. and get
1 1 2 2
(PO) number Arrow Distributing Purchase Order main contact information for ordering. to the Visit www. access nicain c.org/CCE to down load an 11-page questionnaire, which uses a point systemsupplied their level when calling the to determArrow ine Number theofPO qualif Provide ications and industry involv ement. contact to set up your order. Write a 150-200 word personal philosophy of communication and management as it relate s to the Fair Industry. 4
3
Email, fax, or physi cally mail your applic ation, supporting materials, a print-qualit y photograph, and the $90 administrative fee to the NICA Office by October 1st.
Each year NICA awards educational scholarships and the concession to the youth involved business. Any curren in NICA t NICA Member in good three years including standing for the current year, child of a current member, a current member, employ grandchild ee of current member member in good standin for six months, or employ of g who will be attending ee a college, university, vocational/technical school is eligible to apply or for the NICA Schola rship Program. NICA will continue to award a large amoun t of scholarships in 2019! have strengthened the We Scholarship Program with the addition of the O’Brien, CCE Vocati Gene onal School Scholarship and we will continue one scholarship with to award a donation from Coca-C rental best-known carola memb in honor of CCE-designa of the world’s one remain ers. is The Budget der of schola and a will ted rental rewarding be provide the quality vehiclesrships NICAand offers d using donations from Memb brands ership and fundraising efforts countries. 120 than more 3,000 locations in . The deadline for this Schola at more rship Progra experience m than year’s NICA applications is April 1st. Good luck! et.com to register an
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2 3
Call 1-800-214-6094 or visit www.budg Budget Customer Discount (BCD) Number. your Visit www.with account nicain c.org/schol ip Card. Membersh NICA of your to down load this year’s it on the back arship applic can find You ation or comp lete it online; your school must send your transcripts direct ly to the NICA Office 5 for verification. After completing the application online, upload your three letters of recommend ation and a print-qualit y photograph at www.nicainc.org/ scholarship by April 1st. If you complete the application offline, physically mail your typed application, suppo rting materials, and photograph to the a print-quality NICA Office by April 1st.
our e to Y e Guid 2019 iv s n e preh s for A Com ber Benefit Mem
The application, along with all of the accom panying documentatio over to the NICA CCE n, is turned Committee for rating and review. Once an been certified, the CCE applicant has credentials are effectiv e immediately. Said shall remain with him/he designation r permanently unless revoked by the NICA Directors. The official Board of presentation ceremony takes place during the General Membership Annual Meeting during Florida Week.
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Scholarship Program
Each application is carefu lly who make the final determ considered by a select committee of NICA Members ination on the merits of the of the application. Schola rship recipients are notified student and the completion by June 1st and all funds of the results in writing are made payable to the student to be used discretion their transcr at their ipts have been verified . See application for more details.
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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!
2019 NICA Scholarship Applications Available Soon It’s time to think about college scholarships! For those of you with young people heading off to or planning on entering college, the 2019 NICA Scholarship Application will soon be on the website at www.nicainc.org/scholarship. We invite you to apply as soon as possible, as the deadline is April 1st, 2019. We have strengthened the scholarship program with the addition of the Gene O’Brien, CCE Vocational School Scholarship in the amount of $4,000. The Scholarship Program will continue to award one scholarship for $3,000 with a donation from Coca-Cola in honor of CCE-designated members. Three more scholarships in the amount of $2,000 and six more in the amount of $1000 will also be provided using donations from the NICA Membership. Start planning for the next chapter in your life today! ▲
2019 Coca-Cola & Pepsi Pricelists are Now Available It’s official! The 2019 NICA National Pricing Discounts for Coca-Cola and Pepsi have been released and are now available to view on the resources section of your member profile at www.nicainc.org or by request from the NICA Office at nica@nicainc.org or (813) 438-8926. You sell soda but haven’t signed up yet for either of these programs? You are missing out on some great savings! What’s more is that they are ready to assist you with ordering and securing the pricing with your local bottlers nationwide to make sure you are stocked for your event. Sign up today! ▲
Congratulations to the Janousek Family Nathan and Stephanie Janousek, Fun Biz Concessions, welcomed their newborn daughter Sofia Joann Janousek to the world, and by extension the NICA family, on December 18th, 2018. Congratulations on your new addition and we wish you the very best for many years to come! ▲
We Wish You a Speedy Recovery, April! April Wood, West Council, found herself with a back injury that threatened to paralyze her. Walking at all had become very difficult and painful. On October 10th, she had major back surgery. During Council Meetings she has kept us up to date on her strong recovery. Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, Director, stopped by to see her on November 17 and took this photo to let us all know that “April is doing much better.” April’s goal is to be at WFA. We know we will see her there! ▲ 30
January / February 2019 NICA News
Drew Smith, fiancé and caretaker, April Wood, the healing patient, and Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, faithful friend, are enjoying a happy day
MEMBER CLASSIFIEDS Would you like to place a classified ad with us? Contact us at (813) 530-4750 or communications@nicainc.org
2019 San Bernardino County Fair • Victorville, CA (May 25-June 2, 2019) Interested in being a New Food Concessionaire at the San Bernardino County Fair in Victorville CA? The deadline for applications is February 15, 2019. For questions or more information please call Geoff Hinds at (760) 951-2200, email fair@sbcfair.com, or visit www.sbcfair.com. ▲
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. Send an email to us at communications@nicainc.org or call (813) 530-4750 to create your ad and/or to learn more!
January / February 2019 NICA News
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Meet Your Council Members Jessica Gottsche, Southeast Council Coordinator
We had the chance to interview the Southeast Council’s very own Thomas Hodson, CCE, Past President, based out of Gray, Georgia.
What is the name of your business and what products or services do you provide? The Thomas Hodson Company; I specialize in beverage equipment and concession trailer refurbishment. What is your current annual route? I am currently only playing the Kentucky State Fair, where we have been for 55 years. When did you join NICA; who recruited you? I joined in 1993; Kevin McGrath, CCE, The Best Around and current Board Member, recruited me. Is your family active in the business? No; my two children chose different professions
outside of the Industry, currently employed by the State of Florida.
What inspired you to join the Southeast Council? I inquired about it on my own, asking a NICA Director if it was a possibility for me to join. Thomas Hodson, CCE, What do you hope the Past President, enjoying Southeast Council some leisure time accomplishes? I would hope the Council can spread the good of the organization and increase our membership as well as improve Fair involvement, through the development of Communication Committees.
What is the best way to reach you? The best way is by email at snkbby@aol.com or phone at (407) 709-9546. ▲
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January / February 2019 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
0AYMENT
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
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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 34
January / February 2019 NICA News
Cart during the Trade Show.
• 3:45 – 5:00 PM: Making Fairs Affordable Again
Wednesday, January 23
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.
• 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 • 4:00 – 5:15 PM: Service Member Gathering: Vendors and Fairs—a relationship that can WFA Service Members will come together one help ensure our mutual bottom line success, last time at REMIX to recap their experiences as well as enhancing the overall event and plan for the year ahead. experience for our attendees. Let’s expand the creative conversation of how to maximize the • 6:00 – 8:00 PM: Industry Awards Celebration: returns for everyone! Presented by Michelle The culmination of WFA’s week in Reno, Card, NICA’s Executive Director, and Dan featuring presentations of the Barham Award Lusenhop, NICA’s President. for outstanding entrepreneurship, the Merrill Award for innovation and vision in Fair • 10:15 – 11:15 AM: NICA Membership Meeting: Management, and the WFA Hall of Fame Award The National Independent Concessionaires honoring individual commitment and service Association will offer information on to the Fair Industry. The event will conclude membership and address current topics with the installation of WFA Board Officers and affecting Concessionaires throughout the a message from WFA President-Elect Judy Industry. Carrico. ▲ • 2:30 – 3:45 PM: Service Members Sharing For over 60 years and three generations, RJ Schinner has been a leader in the wholesale distribution of plastic and paper packaging and disposables, proudly serving the food service, supermarket, and sanitation markets as a partner in success. As the largest independent redistributor in the US, our customers benefit from our enhanced flexibility, our quick to market operation, and the advantage we have of not being tied to Wall Street expectations like many of our competitors.
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West Council Annual Report Kim Barr, CCE, West Council Member
The NICA West Council meets each month to continuously discuss necessary topics of concern in the Fair Industry. Throughout the year, we constantly work together to have fundraisers and new member gatherings at different Fairs throughout the West! In 2018, we raised $20,623 at these events and we gave back $2500 in donations to local Fair community groups like child development centers and Boys and Girls Clubs. Our events take place from San Diego, CA to Boise ID and Ventura, CA to Tucson, AZ; in addition, our two golf tournaments, Mark Neagles NICA West Invitational and NICA West / Fairplex CDC Golf Tournament, each celebrated their 12th anniversary in 2018. Our other notable events this year included the Livermore Valley Wine Tour and Poker and Bingo Socials at the Pima County Fair and the Arizona State Fair. All of us on the West Council commit to signing up one New Member each year, with most of us signing up many more. Our Council is made up of five second-generation owners and three first-generation owners, two of whom have a second-generation employee working with them. Ryan Long, L&L Concessions, married his longtime friend Wendy this fall and April Wood, Rawlings Concessions, is recovering from serious back surgery. She and her fiancée, Drew, plan to marry next year. Our discussions cover topics like starting Communication Committees, creating stronger relationships with our Fairs, what it’s like to be a second-generation Operator when parents are working with you in the business, and bringing value to NICA’s membership. Currently, we are attempting to find a regional tire benefit and finalizing our Good Neighbor Awards for this year. As fall approaches each year, we start focusing on convention topics we would like to see at WFA. This year we are presenting “Trends in Food and Beverage,” “Making Fairs Affordable Again,” and working with the WFA Industry Standards Committee on “Sharing Best Practices Experienced at Fairs.” Michelle Card, NICA’s Executive Director, will also be presenting “Strengthening our Relationships with Sister
Organizations Creates Mutual Successes with Fairs.” And speaking of working with sister organizations, we collaborated with WFA on hosting two “Day in the Life” exchanges with Fair Managers and Vendors in 2018. At our annual NICA Membership Meeting at WFA, we will discuss safety tips for our members, give out awards, brush up on our benefit programs, and, I am proud to say, I will be receiving my CCE award. This is our annual face-to-face meeting and we also enjoy having our NICA Board Members with us. Together we participate in and share responsibility for leading events at WFA. We also oversee the NICA Sysco Marketplace Food Show during the WFA Trade Show, staff the NICA booth, and sponsor the prizes for the Service Member Bowling Tournament. This year’s fundraiser will be a golf cart, so make sure to purchase a ticket. We are a strong organization that participates and continues to focus on “Together We Can!” ▲
January / February 2019 NICA News
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Meet Our Two New Certified Concessionaire Executives Rey O’Day, Executive Manager of Councils
new friends they have made through their NICA Membership. Both of NICA’s newly approved CCE designees Vince Agnifili is the FIRST “represent a deep understanding and respect for business owner to have been the Fair and Festival business.” Let’s meet Kim awarded both a Certified Fair Barr, CCE, Pacific Crest Concessions, based in Executive (CFE) designation from Yacolt, WA, and Vince Agnifili, CCE, Oasis Aqua IAFE in 2011 and his CCE from Massage, based in Neuvo, CA. NICA in 2018. The early part of As a new NICA West Council his career included promoting Member, Kim Barr applied for Speedway Motorcycle Races at her CCE in 2013 and realized the Earle Warren Fairgrounds in she had not participated in Santa Barbara and he built the Starwest Motocross enough Industry activities to Track at Southern California Fairgrounds. He qualify. She knew she wanted served as the Commercial Exhibits Manager at the the CCE designation, so she Riverside County Fair and Date Festival and also as made it her mission to fulfill the General Manager/CEO at the Southern California the requirements. That set her Fair in Lake Perris. on a new path of attending conventions, hosting When he completed the IAFE Institute of Fair fundraisers, participating on panels, building Management he realized he had the qualifications a trailer, learning from others, and growing her for his CFE. When he left Fair Management to business. continue his career as a Commercial Exhibitor he I asked her for some tips about achieving her joined NICA. He has participated in fundraisers goal and she said, “Write down everything you do and is committed to help NICA work on some of in a notebook, so when it is time to fill out the CCE the concerns that our Commercial Exhibitors have form you have all the information in one place.” regarding rent increases, timely contracting, and When she thought she was ready, she said that it product overlap. took her about two days to do the research, fill out He met his wife of 24 years and current the form, and write her philosophy. When she had business partner, Sara, who was also working in finished it she felt “relief” and was “surprised and the Fair Industry. Today they operate a series of proud that she had accomplished more than she water massage machines at Fairs. I have observed thought she had.” exhausted Fairgoers lay down for a 15 minute In 1987, she and her husband Alan started massage and come out refreshed and ready to keep with a Hawaiian teriyaki stick joint. (By the way, traveling the major Stock Shows, Rodeos and State it was so clean that I think you could eat off the Fairs in San Antonio, Houston, Des Moines, St. Paul, dirt.) Because they were viewed as dependable and Dallas. During the off-season, he participates and professional Concessionaries in 2012, they in conventions because he believes it is the best were given the opportunity to build a funnel cake place for sharing, communicating, and learning. This trailer at the request of the Central Washington entrepreneur is very proud of being active in the Fair. Last year they also built a state-of-theIndustry for a very longtime. art Hawaiian teriyaki trailer. Networking with Vince said it and both believe it: “We have a her fellow NICA Council Members has raised responsibility to be involved, serve and give back to their standards, causing them to improve their a rewarding Industry.” Let’s give a shout out for the products and presentation, and therefore, professionalism and dedication that Kim Barr and resulting in higher success. She and Alan feel the Vince Agnifili bring to our Industry. Welcome to the “pride of ownership” and are grateful for the many NICA CCE Fellowship! ▲
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January / February 2019 NICA News
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Promotions That Make a Positive Impact Rey O’Day, Executive Manager of Councils At the suggestion of the NICA Past Presidents Committee, NICA Members, who travel to numerous Fairs every season, were asked to note the Fair promotions they experienced that had a positive impact on the event. This article was compiled based on those examples. It is by no means a comprehensive list of the many promotions Fairs offer. It is simply designed to give the reader a variety of ideas and options to try. Whenever possible we have listed the Fair at which the promotion took place so you can contact them for more information. We have defined “Positive Impact” to mean: • Increased attendance. • Increased revenue. • Increased quality of life in the community. In addition, we have organized the promotions into one of six categories: 1. Gate Promotions 2. Gate Plus Food Promotions and/or Ride Promotions 3. Parking Promotions 4. Community Promotions 5. Company/Group Sales Promotions 6. Sponsored Promotions
Gate Promotions Free Before Noon Used to increase the Fair’s lunch crowd. (Porter County Fair, IN) Free before 3:00 Used to incentivize guests to come early on weekdays. (Stanislaus County Fair, CA) $5 after 5:00 or $5 before 5:00 Used to increase weekday (Monday-Thursday) attendance or evening meal purchases. Opening Day $1 opening and closing day (New York State Fair). Other Fairs have “free” opening day until a certain time like 2:00. 40
January / February 2019 NICA News
Be a Kid for a Day All ages $10 instead of $15 sold online in advance. (The Big E, MA) Military Appreciation Day ID required for free admissions. 1. Active duty/retired military personnel 2. Dependents of active duty military personnel 3. Veterans (no dependents)
Senior Days Age 60 and over $12 (instead of $15) Monday Thursday. We Care Free cans of food or non-perishable food items collected at the gate in exchange for free admission on one weekday; food usually goes to local food banks. Different variations can use school supplies, lightly used coats, and blankets, etc.
Gate Plus Food Promotions and/or Ride Promotions Two-for-Tuesday $2.00 gate, $2 rides and $2 food items. Boosts attendance and food gross on what would be a slow weekday. (Indiana State Fair) Graze Days Every Thursday from 11 – 4:00 Each vendor offers at least one snack-sized item on their menu for $3.00. (New Mexico State Fair) Food Sample Provide a $3.00 food item sample on one Weekday only until 3:00. (OC Fair, CA / Central Washington State Fair) Passport to Savings Concessionaires submit coupons to be in a free coupon book that is handed out at the Fair to help drive Guests to stands (San Diego County Fair / Stanislaus County Fair, CA) In this example it is free to the Concessionaire. There are other models where the Concessionaire pays to participate and/or the
Guest pays to have a coupon book.
to hold an annual meeting. It chose to hold it at the County Fair. Attendees paid regular $8 gate price, Pre-Fair Tasting Event signed in at the meeting place to receive a $10 “On the evening before the Fair opens the Fair invites sponsors, VIPs, media and board members discount on their next bill, attended the meeting and then received $25 in “Fairbucks” to spend with to a hour taste testing event. Concessionaires specifically selected Vendors. Coop reimbursed give free samples so the word gets out about the fantastic food at the Fair.” (Elkhart County Fair, IN) Vendors twice during the Fair for the Fairbucks they received during the Fair. Positives: Bryan Berguson, Other Fairs host a media morning event in order to receive press about upcoming food at the Fair. Director of Member Services wrote, “Their annual meeting has now quadrupled in members attending (San Diego County Fair, CA) with forty times as much to do and see at the Fair Carload Night from our old venues and we’ve lowered the cost When a car arrives, the Fair counts the number of overall for the event.” Fair Vendors had a guaranteed people in the car with a seat belt buckled on them piece of business during a Fair that experienced four and provides the driver with a slip of paper with days of rain. It was a win/win for everyone. (Troy that number on it. The driver takes it to the box Fair, PA) office and pays up to $65 for up to seven people. Employee Picnic Once in the Fair they go to the ride ticket booth Hackney, wholesale food distributors, purchased to receive their free ride wristbands. This Fair admission tickets so it could hold its annual entrance and rides promotion makes a weekday employee appreciation picnic at local county fair. night as good as a Friday night! (Indian River Fair provided $5 “Hackney Dollars” to the employees County Firefighters Fair, FL) to spend with Vendors and a gathering area by a Pay one Price stage. Fair reimbursed Vendor for the dollars they Promotion with Carnival to pay one price for accepted. (Hillsborough County, FL) admissions and rides. Company Picnic Amazon had a company picnic where they provided Parking Promotions $30,000 in “Fairbucks” for employees to spend on Off-Sight Parking the closing Saturday and Sunday. (Indiana State Partnership with Mass Transit Authority (MTA). Fair) MTA used grant money to pay for express busses Sponsored Promotions at nine park-and-ride hubs. Rides cost $3 and delivered Guests right to the Yellow Gate. Fair Under 12 Free discounted a $14 admission to $4 on Saturday Obtained sponsor to underwrite free admission for and Sunday. Goal is to incentivize Guests to park children less than 12 years of age. (Jackson County in off-site lots on days when the Fair cannot accommodate everyone who wants to come to the Fair, WA / Placer County Fair, CA) Fair. (OC Fair, CA) Gate Sponsored Hours Local businesses sponsor certain slower hours Community Promotions of the Fair to increase attendance with their loyal customers. City, County or Regional Day With proof of residency, Guests receive a significant discount based on the city, county, or region (i.e. valley) in which they live. Often a parade, honored guests, or local performers (i.e. marching band, chorale groups) are part of the celebration. (LA County Fair, CA)
Comments “The key is driving people away from the weekends.” — Marlene Pierson-Jolliffe, Virginia State Fair CEO
“Promotions that are effective incentivize guests to come at times when the Fair is less busy. Look at attendance patterns hour by hour to learn where you Company/Group Sales Promotions want to move attendance to or from. It is a basic yield management concept.” Company Meeting Tri-County Rural Electric Cooperative is mandated — Kathy Kramer, OC Fair CEO ▲ January / February 2019 NICA News
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January / February 2019 NICA News
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January / February 2019 NICA News
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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 Brad Ribar, CCE......................................................................2 David Belcher........................................................................1 Rick Busse, CCE.....................................................................1 Kelly Butler.............................................................................1 Wayne Decker........................................................................1 Michael Dill............................................................................1 Lenny Dunford.......................................................................1 Karen Gary.............................................................................1 Charles Giordano...................................................................1 Bob Jackson..........................................................................1 Melanie Linnear.....................................................................1 Mark Massey.........................................................................1 Nancy Miller...........................................................................1 Connie McKinney, CCE..........................................................1 Missy Pfile.............................................................................1 Art Pokorny............................................................................1 Robert Poole..........................................................................1 Randy Reichert, CCE..............................................................1 Jeff Ross................................................................................1 Karen Russell.........................................................................1 Justin Sattler.........................................................................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 Henry Mitchell.......................................................................7 Tom Hodson, CCE..................................................................4 Jeff Ames...............................................................................3 Jody Conklin..........................................................................3 Lindsey Constantine.............................................................3 Jay Wells................................................................................3 Cameron Murray....................................................................2 Ryan Long..............................................................................1 Erica Quintero........................................................................1 Steve Vartanian.....................................................................1 April Wood.............................................................................1
Board of Directors Dominic Palmieri, CCE..........................................................5 Carmel Dyer-Pittroff..............................................................3 Kathy Ross............................................................................3 Andrew “Bruno” Broomfield..................................................2 Jennifer Giordano..................................................................2 Sandy Class...........................................................................1 Richie George........................................................................1 Kevin McGrath, CCE..............................................................1 Vincent Nelson......................................................................1 Tim O’Brien, CCE...................................................................1 Jay “Rocko” Russell............................................................. 1 Daryl Whicheloe, CCE............................................................1
Administration Office....................................................................................58
*Final Listing as of 12/31/18. Every new member referred gets you one entry into the contest, which holds its drawing on February 6, 2019 during NICA’s Annual Gala. Contact us if you see any inaccuracies. See below for rules and prizes.
January / February 2019 NICA News
45
2019 Events Calendar
Representing NICA & Its Industry Partners
January 1: Office Closed for New Year’s Day 3-5: North Carolina Association of Agricultural Fairs Convention • Raleigh, NC 3-7: Virginia Association of Fairs Convention • Hot Springs, VA 4-6: Indiana Association of Fairs Convention • Indianapolis, IN 6-9: Wisconsin Association of Fairs Convention • Wisconsin Dells, WI 10-12: Michigan Association of Fairs & Exhibitions Convention • Grand Rapids, MI 10-12: West Virginia Association of Fairs & Festivals Convention • Charleston, WV 10-13: Missouri Association of Fairs & Festivals Convention • Columbia, MO 10-13: Oregon Fairs Association Convention • Salem, OR 17-19: Kentucky Association of Fairs & Horse Shows Convention • Louisville, KY 17-19: Tennessee Association of Fairs Convention • Nashville, TN 17-20: Minnesota Federation of County Fairs 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 19: Utah Association of Fairs Convention • Salt Lake City, UT 20-23: WFA Convention & Trade Show • Reno, NV 21-22: NICA Sysco Marketplace at the WFA Convention • Reno, NV**
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January / February 2019 NICA News
23: NICA’s 2019 Tribute Bowl Tournament • Greenacres, FL 23-26: Pennsylvania State Association of County Fairs Convention • Hershey, PA 24-26: Georgia Association of Agricultural Fairs & South Carolina Association of Fairs Combined Annual Convention • Atlanta, GA 24-26: Maine Association of Agricultural Fairs Convention • Portland, ME 1/31-2/2: Mid-West Fairs Association Convention • Palm Beach Gardens, FL
February
Florida Week 2019*
March 4-6: Institute of Fair Management Summit • Houston, TX 15-17: IAFE Zone 5 Meeting • Lincoln, NE 24-27: IAFE Zone 4 Spring Conference • Sioux Falls, SD
April 1: NICA Scholarship Applications are due in the NICA Office*** TBA: Yuma County Fair Service Member Meeting • Yuma, AZ 11-13: IAFE Zone 1 Conference • Rockport, ME 14-16: IAFE Zone 3 & 6 Combined Meeting • Indianapolis, IN
3: Fare Foods Super Bowl Party • Tampa, FL
16-18: Tools of the Trade Seminar • Indianapolis, IN
4-6: NICA Business Expo & Fare Foods 2019 Food Show, NICA General Membership Meeting, Annual Gala & More! • Tampa, FL
23: Pima County Fair Poker & Bingo Social • Tucson, AZ
5-8: Gibtown 2019 Extravaganza & Trade Show • Gibsonton, FL 7: 4th Annual Fair Partners Shootout • Lithia, FL 7: Fresh from Florida Breakfast & Florida State Fair Private Tour (must RSVP) • Tampa, FL 7: OABA’s Topgolf Tournament • Tampa, FL 14-16: Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies Annual Convention • Richmond Hill, ON TBA: Riverside County Fair Service Member Meeting • Indio, CA 26: NICA’s St. Lucie County Fair Casino Night & Chili Cook Off • Fort Pierce, FL
TBA: Pima County Fair Service Member Meeting • Tucson, AZ
May 3-5: 2019 IAFE Management Conference • Costa Mesa, CA 3-5: Florida Federation of Fairs and IAFE Zone 2 Meeting • St Augustine, FL 27: Memorial Day (Office Closed) Although these dates are based on sources believed to be reliable and true, they are subject to changes throughout the year. Visit our online calendar at www.nicainc.org or upcoming NICA News for updates, changes, additional dates, and more! *See page 18 **See page 34 ***See page 30
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 :
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.
q
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:
TOTAL:
Signature of Credit Card Holder I authorize NICA to charge the agreed amount listed above to my credit card provided herein. I agree I will pay for this purchase in accordance with the issuing bank cardholder agreement. The NICA sponsored $10,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance Policy is automatically provided to all Independent Concessionaire Members.
Applicant’s signature
Date
Beneficiary ________________________________________ Phone ___________________
National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc. 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511
Time Sensitive Mail • January / February 2019 Issue
PRSRT STD U. S. POSTAGE PAID STEVENS POINT WI PERMIT NO. 272