January / February 2024 NICA News

CONTENTS • JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2024 ARTICLES & FEATURES 04 This Month’s Newest Members 05 Passing the Gavel 07 Happy New Year 08 Riffing With Rey 10 Association Announcements 13 Member’s Voice 16 NICA By the Numbers 18 Today’s Partnerships With Hummel Group 20 2024 NICA Business Expo & Food Show: “Tomorrow Starts Today!”

Information, Schedule of Events & Hall of Fame 24 Thank You For Attending NICA Marketplace “Together!”

30 Fairs RISE in Salt Lake City 33 Getting to Know Your Regional Council Members 34 What If I Don’t Know What to Say? 35 This Month’s Member Renewals 37 Final 2023 NICA Membership Contest Leaderboard

Learn about the 2024 NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods Food Show: “Tomorrow Starts Today!” starting on page 20.

ADVERTISERS 06 Berk Concession Supply 37 Colonel Jim’s 14 Fanestil Meats 17 Fare Foods 38 Haas & Wilkerson 11 Heinkel’s Packing 12 Hummel Group 32 McGowan Allied 12 Mr. G’s

15 OA Finance 32 RIO Syrup 02 Schantz 36 Swanel Beverage 38 TasteMaker 15 The Thomas Hodson Co. 15 Whirley DrinkWorks!

09 WNA

NICA is a membership-driven organization dedicated to strengthening relationships with the Fair, Festival, and Special Events Industries through effective communication, education, benefits, leadership, and solutions.

National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc. is a Florida Corporation with an Editorial and General Office located at 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 • Off ice: (813) 438-8926 • Fax: (813) 803-8460 • Online: www.nicainc.org The information contained in this Publication is based upon sources believed to be reliable. Readers should not act without professional advice. Cover to Cover © 1993-2024 NICA, Inc. All Rights Reserved. “Tomorrow Starts Today!”

January / February 2024 NICA News 3

This Month’s Newest Members Randal Anderson

Tom Frazee

Pat Armstrong

Frazee’s Concessions and Equipment Comstock Park, MI

Christopher Barton

TBA Concessions Dillsboro, NC

Jim Benton

Brander Enterprises, Inc. Santa Margarita, CA

Anderson Events Group Puyallup, WA

Bobby Fuqua

Cornbelt Concessions Bloomington, IL

Sonia Gama

Pride of Texas Shows Elm Mott, TX Benton & St Francis Company LLC DBA Donut Delights Cumming, GA

Jessica Garcia

Micah Bledsoe

Noe Garcia

Southwest Digital Media Denver, NC

Vartanian Concessions Management Menifee, CA Alejandro’s Concessions Indianola, IA

William Gardiner

Charlie Boghosian

WG Concessions Lancaster, CA

Chicken Charlie’s San Diego, CA

Carl Giordano

Tony Cardinali

Giordano’s Big G, Inc. Bronx, NY

Cardinali Concessions Lake Havasu City, AZ

John Gotz

Leslie Chan

Yuan Chang

JL United LLC DBA Strawberries & Creme Waseca, MN

Rosario Chavez

Lori’s Concessions Washington, PA

Ronnie Clark

Impact Catering Oklahoma City, OK

Thomas Costello

Megan’s Catering Melbourne, FL

Chan’s Eatery, Inc. Sugar Land, TX

Lori Gresh

Chan’s Eatery, Inc. Sugar Land, TX

Joe Guthrie

Snowy Concessions Auburn, CA

Megan Hagy

Granny’s Cheesecake Riverview, FL

Cody Hays

Kontos Foods Paterson, NJ (2023)

Texas Holy Catering and Concessions LLC Allen, TX

Liz Edwards

Campbell County Fair Gillette, WY

Doug Huemoeller Paella Depot Minnetonka, MN

Yolanda Flores

Stitching Dreams Apple Valley, CA

Gavin Huemoeller

Michael Flores

CA Dept. of Food & Beverage Sacramento, CA

Paella Depot Minnetonka, MN

Ben Hughes

Mike Owens

Matthew Immel

Jamie Phillips

Gallatin County Fairgrounds Bozeman, MT Fond du Lac County Fair Fond du Lac, WI

Monica Jackson RM Concessions Fresno, CA

Scott Lawson Orange Julius Fresno, CA

JTA INC Henderson, NV Frazee’s Concessions and Equipment Comstock Park, MI

Anthony Platts

Diamond Concessions of Utah West Valley City, UT

Gary Reeves

Ze Li

Global Frequency Technologies, LLC Surprise, AZ

CJ Martin

Alan Rossi

Gregg Martinez

Chris Sanchez

Grayson Matchett

Zach Sawyers

Blake McKinney

Elizabeth Schacht

Jeff McKinney

Karen Searle

Greg Mock

Nick Strates

Ryan Needham

Tristin Ukmar

Christopher Nielsen

Julie Vartanian

Chan’s Eatery, Inc. Sugar Land, TX CNC Event Services Arcadia, WI All About Dips Kansas City, MO

Matchett Experiences Tavares, FL Concessions Unlimited LLC Hughes Springs, TX Concessions Unlimited LLC Hughes Springs, TX GSM Inc. Homossassa, FL Needham Concessions Oak Hills, CA Can-U Marketing Riverside, CA

Anna Novotny

Ara Concessions Port St. Lucie, FL

Michelle Orlandi

Poppie’s Fresh Onion Rings, Inc. Cummington, MA

Southwest Digital Media Mesa, AZ LUX Hospitality Group Salt Lake City, UT Stizzy Works Phoenix, AZ

German Specialty Foods Fort Morgan, CO Fair Executives Phoenix, AZ Demetri’s Greek Foods Mt. Airy, MD R & J Concessions Sarasota, FL Vartanian Concessions Management Menifee, CA

Zelindo Viscusi

Angela’s International Apollo Beach, FL

Christina Yunker

St. Joseph County Grange Fair Centreville, MI

Welcome to our 58 New Members! See page 37 for the final 2023 NICA Membership Contest Leaderboard.

“Together We Can!”

4 January January//February February2024 2024NICA NICANews News

PASSING THE GAVEL

Vincent Nelson, CCE, Outgoing President

was more then my NICA dues! These are just a few of NICA’s Benefits that I have saved with this past season.

The year goes so fast.

NICA is more than saving money, though. The Before I knew it, I was done!

NICA Foundation awarded $45,000 in scholarships NICA has improved my business, saved me money, and for future leaders. Giving back to our membership is I have also spent more time on important to me. I can remember 35 years ago that my sister received a scholarship from New England the phone this year than I ever Showmen’s Association and how important that have in my life! money was to my family. I hope our Scholarship I had two goals as NICA Recipients feel the same joy.

President. My first one was We still have many challenges in our Industry, signing up at least twenty new members, as I feel strongly that NICA has a lot to offer our members. just like everywhere in the country. Labor is still a That being said, I failed at this goal. I think to date big concern; Fairs, Carnivals, and Concessionaires I have only signed up eight new members so there do not have enough labor to fill our positions. I think this will be a ongoing issue for many years. is still time. If you are not yet member of NICA, I will gladly sign you up! My second goal was to use We also had more campground break-ins then ever this season. Be diligent protecting yourself and your every NICA Benefit this year. I have done well at this goal, which in turn has helped my bottom line. property—we need to work together to make sure we are all safe and secure. From the looks of the As I said last month, my most used benefits grocery stores, food cost is still over the top with no were Pepsi and Sysco. I have always used the signs it will be any better this upcoming season.

NICA Pepsi discount and I use an average of 60 We addressed some of these concerns at last BIBs a year, saving $18 off of each; that alone month’s NICA Marketplace “Together!” event. Our has saved me $1080! For the longest time I did attendance was higher than last year and feedback not use Sysco, but as my family has grown, so was very positive. We look forward to another has my business. With Roast Beef, Meat, and successful event this year. Save the Date for the Fry stands, I have saved at least $2500 between next NICA Marketplace, November 10–13, 2024.

Chicken Tenders, Philly Steak, and Beef among See you in February for the NICA Business Expo many other items. I also saved money on a RV and Fare Foods Food Show, where “Tomorrow Starts hot water heater from Arrow Distributors (It was Today!” I will be Passing the Gavel to Incoming $13 cheaper than anywhere else I could find it, President Kim Barr, CCE at our Annual Membership including Amazon.) and repainted a shed with Meeting, and I look forward to continuing my work Sherman Williams paint (not only did I save, but I feel the quality of paint was better, too). A few other with the Board for the next year as Past President.

Have a great start to 2024 and your season! ▲ mentions include the fact that my Entegra check

Are You Taking Advantage of NICA’s Benefits?

NICA is very proud to be able to provide strong benefits for its Membership. Our NICA Membership Benefits Guide showcases our Benefit Partners and how to best utilize their discounts, rebates, or other savings as a NICA Member. No matter where you are in the country, you can have access in print or online editions—it’s meant to be used on the go!

As we enter the start of the year, we encourage you to look at all of the NICA Benefits that are available at www.nicainc.org/benefits and in your guide. If you need assistance, contact the NICA Office at (813) 438-8926.

January / February 2024 NICA News 5

OFFICERS*

2023 President: Vincent Nelson, CCE 2024 President: Kim Barr, CCE 1st Vice President: Kelly Grout Treasurer: Dan Lusenhop Secretary: Stacey Pittroff-Barona, CCE

DIRECTORS

Brandy Arredondo, CCE Jacqueline Bradbury, CCE Bary Bunts, CCE Phil Delahoyde Bryan Enloe Jay Wells, CCE

INCOMING DIRECTORS

Michelle Allen, CCE Sandy Class, CCE Richie O’Neil

PAST PRESIDENTS’ COUNCIL

Daryl Whicheloe, CCE Sandy Class, CCE Don Delahoyde, CCE Kathy Ross, CCE Dan Lusenhop

6 January / February 2024 NICA News

Dominic Palmieri, CCE Paulette Keene, CCE Joe Potillo, Jr. Greg Miller, CCE Tom Sattler, CCE Russ Harrison, CCE Richard Busse, CCE Tom Hodson, CCE Jim Hodson, CCE (Deceased) Tim O’Brien, CCE Ron Smith Adam McKinney, CCE Mike Pence, CCE Jack Woods, II, CCE Bob Hallifax, CCE Frank Parnell, CCE Larry Orme (Deceased) Larry Sivori Rich Wright Bill McKinney, CCE Arthur Pokorny, Jr. Gene O’Brien, CCE (Deceased)

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

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

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

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

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

West Council Coordinators: Don Delahoyde, CCE Julie Dunn donandjulie@nicainc.org

NICA FOUNDATION*

EAST COUNCIL

Bary Bunts, CCE Ryan Collmer Whitney Fraleigh Ryan Hagy Patty Tessari Michael Zdebiak, Jr.

MIDWEST COUNCIL

Connie Boesen Sandy Class, CCE James McConnell Richie O’Neil Matt Ribar

WEST COUNCIL

Michelle Allen, CCE Brandy Arredondo, CCE President: Audrey Poole Treasurer: Jennifer Giordano, CCE Irene Dugan, CCE Rodney Fazackerly Secretary: Rey O’Day Alan Harrington Trustees: Gigi Horowitz, CCE Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, CCE Ryan Long, CCE Kelly Grout Miki Martin Tom Hodson, CCE Kara Moederndorfer, CCE Larry Sivori Albert Valadez Nathan Wells, CCE Incoming Trustees: Reilly Berk * The Gavel is passed in February.

James McConnell Officers will be elected from within the Board and Incoming Directors/ Daryl Whicheloe, CCE Trustees also begin their terms.

HAPPY NEW YEAR Kim Barr, CCE, Incoming President

As your Incoming President for 2024, I’d like to say Happy New Year! May this year bring you Happiness and much Success in 2024. I’m excited to represent NICA and I’m happy to have an amazing Board to help me along the way!

I have the complete support of my wonderful Husband, Alan. He has supported me since I started on the West Coast Council in 2012. We started in the Industry in 1987 on the Central Washington State Fairgrounds, where my Husband purchased our first trailer, and a few Fairs. Alan’s job at that time was moving back East and this opportunity came upon him. We started in an 8’ x 14’ Concession Trailer and over the years have grown our business to what it is today. Our middle Son, Nate, Daughter-In-Law, Rebecca, and our two Grandchildren, Adan and Hailee, help us to be successful in what we do each and every day.

It is, and always has been our goal to do the best we can for our Fairs and ourselves. We take pride in what we do. Along the journey, we have acquired an amazing “Fair Family.”

We are looking forward to see what 2024 has in store for us. After all, this year’s theme of

“Tomorrow Starts Today!” echoes the idea that we must prepare “Today” for what comes “Tomorrow!”

How many H-2B workers will we receive, to getting equipment ready and serviced, to being creative with the possibility of adding something New to our menus. In this Industry, I think it is always important to step back and take a look at your menu, along with your booth and its appearance.

We have to be willing to step out of our comfort zone at times, which I will admit, is not easy for me to do. I’m just happy to do what I always do and not change. This year, I am challenging ALL OF US, to Step Outside of the Box! As we are already starting to receive our 2024 Contracts, I am excited to have received our first Multi-Year Contract. NICA’s hard work at conventions, talking about Multi-Year Contracts and the benefit to both the the Fair and Concessionaire, are starting to happen!

NICA is excited to have our Commercial Exhibitors come onboard and join our organization.

We have been working on this for approximately Kim Barr, CCE, Incoming President, with Alan Barr, CCE, Pacific Crest Concessions, Jay Wells, CCE, Director, Nathan four years now. This month we had our first Commercial Exhibitors Council meeting! Without Wells, CCE, West Council, Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, Past President, Stacey Pittroff-Barona, CCE, Secretary, Rebecca them, Fairs would have a whole different look.

Wells, Pacific Crest Concessions, and Kristen Whicheloe, There wouldn’t be as much for the patron to come Southern Oregon Food and Beverage, celebrating in Vegas out to see, purchase, and enjoy. We are excited to have them on our team!

I am looking forward to 2024, working together as an organization, along with our Sister Organizations, to further our Motto: “Together We Can!” We hear more Fair Managers today tell us, working together makes us both successful.

Without each other, we won’t have the Fair.

In closing, I hope you all have a wonderful start to your year, enjoying time off, or a task you may be trying to accomplish before your season begins.

For those that are working during this time, I hope your events are great! ▲ January / February 2024 NICA News 7

RIFFING WITH REY

Rey O’Day, Executive Director

“New Beginnings. New Opportunities. New Challenges.

New Successes. New Reasons to Feel Grateful!”

I received this note from a friend and I share it with you because I believe the sentiment was true in 2023 for NICA and will continue to be in 2024.

As I write this, the NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods Show is in our sights. We have held our Annual NICA Membership Meeting and Gala Dinner on Wednesday night for many years.

NOT THIS YEAR! The Annual NICA Membership Meeting AND Legacy Dinner, sponsored by Fare Foods, have MOVED to Monday evening, February 5th beginning at 5:30 PM! It is FREE and FULL of FELLOWSHIP, FOOD, and FUN NEW EVENTS. We will install the 2024 Board of Directors with Kim Barr, CCE as our President; recognize CCE Recipients, present Coca-Cola Membership Drive winners, honor Foundation Scholarship Recipients, induct Past President Dominic Palmieri, CCE into NICA’s Hall of Fame, meet some of the longtime Exhibitors at this event, make some surprise announcements, and enjoy spreading some green stuff around for good causes. YOU ARE INVITED! Because you and your Employees are the front line of our Fairs, you experience real life with our Guests. Last year we offered CPR, and it was such a success that we are offering it again on Monday morning, February 5th at 9:00 AM. We also had many requests for ServSafe for Food Managers, and we are offering it as well on Monday afternoon, February 5th at 12:30 PM. CPR is usually $75 and ServSafe is usually $150; however, the NICA Foundation and its sponsors are proudly underwriting part of the fee for NICA Members so that CPR is only $30 and ServSafe is only $90.

Enjoy the fruits of the NICA Foundation… this is why it was formed… and we hope to offer more lifelong educational opportunities through it!

Phil Teague, Hummel Group, introduced us to Buddy Walls, who has a wealth of knowledge about DOT and an affable personality with which 8 January / February 2024 NICA News

New Possibilities

he likes to share it. The session starts at 9:00 AM on Tuesday morning, February 6th. Also on Tuesday are the popular Roundtable Lunch Topics; a session that recognizes that “The Next Generation Is Here” all around us; some “Blue Ribbon Guest Service Tips” shared by me; a “Fiserv and Clover Update” from Tina Hollis and her team; and “Food and Beverage Trends” straight from the horses’ mouths…our Food Show’s Exhibitors. We will visit them at the Fare Foods Food Show from 5:00–9:00 PM on Tuesday evening.

Wednesday afternoon, NICA and OABA will share some workshops together around “Reducing Chargebacks,” “H-2B Lobbying Updates,” and “Safety and Security.” While the Fare Foods Food Show wraps up on Wednesday evening, we will also announce the winners of the For Our Future and East Council Vacation Package contests. But that’s not all—make sure to visit all of the Florida Week traditions that continue after this event!

Last time I spoke with you was in 2023 and we were ready to fly to Salt Lake City to participate in the IAFE Convention. Since then, the NICA Board accepted Michelle Allen, CCE as the West Council Ex-Officio Director, Bary Bunts, CCE as the East Council Ex-Officio Director, and Richie O’Neil as the Midwest Council Ex-Officio Director. We also welcomed Brandy Arredondo, CCE, Sandy Class, CCE, and Phil Delahoyde back to continue

their Board service. Using their new bylaws, The Foundation Board inaugural Trustees Don Kenna, Mark Lancaster, and Greg Miller, CCE, are terming out, and Reilly Berk, James McConnell, and Daryl Whicheloe, CCE are beginning their service as Foundation Trustees.

The Advisory Committee (NICA Board and 12 Fair Managers) Luncheon, sponsored by R.E. Smith, positively discussed exploring Multi-Year Agreements and wisely discussed some electrical efficiencies that would facilitate smoother moveins. An in-depth conversation occurred around the ways Fairs and Vendors can put safety practices in place to protect Employees, Families, and Fair Guests. I think we will see more campgrounds with fences, more Vendors with cameras, and security presence everywhere.

I want to say soooo much about the second annual NICA Marketplace “Together!” but there is neither the time nor the space in my Riffing to do that. However, hopefully you followed it on our social media and will enjoy the first summary of it on pages 24-28. Here is a tease—attendance was up 27%, the number of Fairs present doubled

from 20 to 40, Sponsorship dollars were up 100%, the Commercial Exhibits Council planned their inaugural meeting and then held it on January 9th with the leadership of Jeff Thornberry, CCE, and the West Council acted as Greeters for 18 Educational Sessions and staffed the NICA Booth under the guidance of the new West Council Coordinators, Don Delahoyde, CCE and Julie Dunn.

SAVE THE DATE: November 10–13, 2024 at the Tuscany Suites and Casino in Las Vegas.

In 2023, our Staff and Volunteer Leadership worked together in an “ALL IN!” style. We have learned that “Tomorrow Starts Today.” Here’s how it works... Many successful things have happened for NICA and the NICA Foundation this year because Together we started planning and working on Tomorrow. All Tomorrows become Todays… that is what faith and hope are all about. New Beginnings. New Opportunities. New Challenges.

New Successes. And New Reasons to Feel Grateful are possible because we commit to start working on them Today.

Wishing you all the wonderful things the promise of the New Year brings, ▲

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January / February 2024 NICA News 9

Association

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

In Memory of Happy Day Pony Ride’s Ron Boeger Ronald James Boeger, 79, of Cherokee, CA passed away November 14th at his Happy Place, his home on Trails End Ranch. Ron is survived by his wife of 43 years, Lucy, his children Cade, Ryann and Chance, and his beloved Grandchildren, Wyatt, Grace, Hayden, Mia, Cassidy, Maysen, Donna, Jake, Tucker and Kyle. While we wished for so many more years with him on Earth, we are greatly heartened that he is with his Lord and enjoying the heavenly breezes.

Ron was born to George and Alberta Boeger in the California East Bay area.

He grew up with his friends and siblings, outdoors, doing rough and tumble boy stuff. He idolized his cowboy heroes, and rode and shot like they did. Ron attended parochial school where the Nuns kept him mostly in line. He wrestled, played football and even tried to learn the accordion. In 1961, at the age of 16, Ron did his first Fair with a Pony Ride. Little did he know that event would blossom into a 63-year passion that would provide for his family and would be passed on to all three of his children.

Through a process of continual improvement and refinement Ron and Lucy developed what was widely accepted to be the finest Free-Rein Pony Ride in the United States, and likely the world. Ron always took great pride in the fact that his work made children happy. How many people can say that about their profession? In the Fair Industry, Ron was highly respected and admired by those around him.

Often, he would be called upon for his advice or his opinion on some weighty matter by his friends in the Industry, and he even served as a WFA Director for a time and he was one of the first NICA National Representatives for the West Coast. He has left a lasting legacy. ▲

Our Condolences to the Doolan Amusement Family Tina Doolan, of Stuart, FL, passed away on Friday, January 12, 2024, surrounded by family. Tina was a loving wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, a proud business owner, and a good friend and neighbor.

Tina was born on September 3, 1941, the oldest of four children and the only daughter of Ernest and Shirley Guilmette of Portland, CT. Tina graduated from Portland High School and went on to waitress at the Cyprus Grill in Middletown, CT. That’s where she met the love of her life and partner of 61 years, John. Tina and John married in 1965 and raised three sons, David, Mark, and Michael.

John introduced Tina to the Outdoor Amusement Industry and together they built Doolan Amusement Company. For decades, Tina and John have operated their traveling Amusement company of Rides and Food at Fairs and Festivals from Florida to Maine. Tina was also well-known in the Concession Business and operated her Banquet-in-a-Bun Concession at some of the largest and finest events on the East Coast and received several Fair awards, making countless friends along the way.

Tina is survived by her husband John, her son David and his life partner Toni, her son Mark and his wife Karla, and her son Michael and his wife Heidi. Tina is also survived by her four grandchildren and one great-grandchild. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Susan G. Komen at Komen.org, the OABA Memorial Scholarship Fund, or Treasure Coast Hospice at Treasurehealth.org. ▲ 10 January / February 2024 NICA News

2024 Beverage Price Lists are Now Available The 2024 NICA National Pricing Discount Price Lists for Coca-Cola and Pepsi have been officially released and are now available to view by logging into your Online Member Account at www.nicainc.org/login and viewing Resources and/or the Coca-Cola and Pepsi benefit pages. You may also contact the NICA Office at nica@nicainc.org or (813) 438-8926 to have them sent to you. Do you sell beverages but haven’t signed up yet for these amazing programs? You are missing out on some great savings! Their representatives are ready to assist you with ordering and securing the pricing with your local bottlers. ▲

2024 Scholarship Applications Available Online February 1st It’s time to think about scholarships! For YOU or those of you with children, grandchildren, or employees planning on entering College or Vocational School, the 2024 NICA Foundation Scholarship Application will be available starting February 1st online at www.nicainc.org/scholarship.

With the financial challenges that many of our students and their families are facing right now, the NICA Foundation is honored to award life-changing funds to so many deserving students. Because of the passionate support from our donors in 2023, we were able to not only meet our goal of awarding $40,000, but we exceeded it and awarded $45,000 to our 26 commendable recipients. All Scholarship Applications and supporting materials must be received in the NICA Office no later than June 1st to qualify. ▲

January / February 2024 NICA News 11

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Member’s Voice Lisa & Michael Chambers, American Food Service The greatest part of NICA is the membership!

The Member’s Voice influences where the organization is headed and what it can improve.

The NICA Office has been continuing their survey of responses from Renewing Members.

We had the privilege to speak with longtime NICA Members Lisa and Michael Chambers of Dade City, FL. They own and operate American Food Service and serve a variety of desserts, specializing in Ice Cream, at Fairs across the country. What makes a great scoop? According to Lisa, “The perfect Ice Cream is firm, creamy, smooth and flavorful. When we are at a Fair we have to make sure that every product that crosses our counter is top quality. We love having repeat customers that come back day after day and year.”

The Chambers have a long history on the Fairgrounds: “Our family has been in the Carnival business since my late Father-in-law Ray Chambers got out of WWII.” Ray started working with his uncle Earl in his Sideshow Business when he was 14 or 15 years old. He met and married his wife Mary in 1958 after taking over the Sideshow.

In 1984, Mary and Ray, along with their son Michael made the decision to enter into the Food Concession Business. They started by renovating an old Waymatic grab joint and in 1989, they built

The Chambers’ Ice Cream stand at a Fairgrounds near you

Lisa and Michael Chambers, American Food Service

a very successful trailer from the ground up, The Main Street Butcher Block. After Michael met and married his wife Lisa in 1994 they realized that one trailer was not going to support two families.

At the Minnesota State Fair, Michael encouraged Mary and Ray to bring the Caramel Apple Sundae to the East Coast. While it took some time to get Fairgoers to fall in love with the tasty Caramel Apple Sundae, Ray insisted on adding a singlehead Stoelting Ice Cream machine to their trailer to help boost revenue. One machine led to another and they finally ended up with two Taylor threehead soft-serve machines.

A few years later, Ray stumbled on a relatively new machine called Flavor Burst. Michael explained, “This magical machine allowed our three-head Taylor machine to expand from vanilla and chocolate to twisting in many different flavors together. Simply stated, the machine does this by attaching to the vanilla, infusing different flavors into it.” As a result, they can offer 40 different choices of Ice Cream! Lisa said, “We’ve had this in our trailer since 1997 and to this date our guests are still mystified by this amazing product.”

A few things have changed in the years since.

Lisa shared, “We are noticing more people asking for gluten free options which means they can have the Ice Cream, just not the Cone. All our Flavor Burst flavors are gluten-free. As of recently we are January / February 2024 NICA News 13

getting daily requests for something dairy-free. This is something we are working on. I keep ingredient panels in a three-ring binder on our Ice Cream as well as Flavor Burst syrups. This also helps when dealing with food sensitive issues like allergies.

I also can’t believe that accepting credit cards is really a thing. I never thought I’d see the number of people pull out plastic for a $5 Ice Cream Cone, but the proof is in the numbers.” New trends they have seen include making combinations of flavors: “We especially see this with Milkshake flavors. We feature seasonal flavors like Pumpkin Spice and Apple Cider in the Fall. Add-ins are trendy like kids cereal mix-ins such as Cinnamon Toast Crunch and Fruity Pebbles. One of our most popular shake flavors is Southern Banana Pudding which has Banana Pudding as well as Vanilla Wafers mixed into the Shake.” Lisa added, “I’m a firm believer in the KISS method. I also like to keep my focus on maintaining several quality products instead of having a large menu and not having high quality products to serve to our Guests.”

Regarding benefits, they shared, “We take advantage of many of the outstanding benefits that

The 4th Generation at work: Daniel Moore and Emily Chambers, American Food Service

NICA has to offer. The AutoZone discount alone has paid for our NICA Memberships! We also use the Coke and Pepsi discount as well as doing business with Hummel Group, Fare Foods, and Grainger.”

In 2022, Lisa and Michael’s daughter Emily, Past Scholarship Recipient, along with her fiance Daniel Moore, decided that they wanted to take the Caramel Apple Sundae trailer back out on a full-time basis in the Summer and Fall after their graduation from Valdosta State University: “So the 4th Generation starts their story!”

The NICA Office plans to continue reaching out to our Renewing Members. If you hear from us, we’d love to know what’s on your mind! ▲

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January / February 2024 NICA News 15

BY THE NUMBERS

An Infographic Guide to NICA Benefits, Membership & More!

There have been 85 CCE Award Recipients since the program began in 2000.

Since 1993 there have been 73 members on NICA’s Board of Directors.

16 January / February 2024 NICA News

Since the creation of the Scholarship Program in 1996, there have been 225 Scholarship Recipients.

NICA currently offers benefit discount programs from 22 Vendors.

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Since 2020, 175 donors have supported NICA Foundation Scholarships.

Starting in February, NICA will have 41 members in Leadership Positions.

In 2024, NICA will have a total of 22 Hall of Fame Recipients after this year’s award presentation at our Legacy Celebration.

14%

Fair & Festival Members

20%

66%

Concession Members

Associate Members

NICA’s largest membership category is Concession Members, followed by Associate Members and Fair & Festival Members.

January / February 2024 NICA News 17

Phil Teague, Jr., CIC, CRM, Principal & Business Risk Advisor, Hummel Group Happy New Year everyone!

It’s January and I’m sitting in my dining room looking out my window at the snow spinning in circles with 25 to 30 mile per hour wind gusts. I do love the seasons...And I am looking forward to being in Florida in a couple of weeks.

As I pondered what to say to my clients, friends and an Industry that has been extremely gracious to me, a myriad of thoughts crossed my mind. I’d love to tell you about the many exciting things that happened in my personal life in 2023, some of the challenges of the Insurance Industry at the present moment, and what to look forward to in 2024. I think I’ll touch on all of those things but before I do, I’d like to share a story from yesterday that was a reminder of why what I do is so important to all of us.

“It (Insurance) doesn’t matter until it matters, and when it matters it often matters a lot.” One of my mentors in the Insurance Industry used to say this regularly. He also said, “If you don’t tell them, no one will.” Yesterday, as is true with most days, I started the day with a plan. That plan changed when I received a call from Gina McNeill that one of our clients just lost everything. As I arrived at the home of my client and we spoke about coverage, the claims process, and viewed the damage, I remembered the overwhelming feeling of trying to contemplate the reality of the situation and simultaneously develop a plan to rebuild. In that moment I was able to experience at some level what my client was experiencing mentally and emotionally. And in that moment, I was reminded of why what I do is so important.

With that in mind, this Fall we implemented a new renewal process for Concessionaires that should make it easier for our clients to be able to review and update their Insurance Program.

Feedback is welcome on whether it’s working and if there are thoughts on improving delivery, format, or the process in general. Bottom line, 18 January / February 2024 NICA News

verifying asset lists, updating values, and reviewing coverage helps to ensure that your policy can respond well if needed. Our goal is to make that process as efficient, and dare I say, as enjoyable as possible.

We have a new logo for the Concessionaire Insurance Program. This is part of a re-branding effort by our marketing department. Part of this effort will be requesting feedback from our clients on how we are doing. If you get an email asking you to rate your experience with the Hummel Group, please let us know what you think.

I would be negligent if I didn’t address one of the most concerning topics for 2023: The vandalism and theft of property of Vendors at multiple campgrounds over the Summer. I have had countless conversations on a variety of concerns relative to this situation. If you have specific questions regarding your Insurance Program, please contact me or whomever your Insurance agent may be to learn more. At the request of Vincent Nelson, CCE, NICA provided a seminar on premises security during NICA Marketplace “Together!” that offered action items to help prevent or mitigate damage or theft of property in campgrounds.

Paul Loftis, a loss control specialist with Westfield Insurance, offered practical recommendations. Here are some of those thoughts: Motion activated exterior lighting, security cameras, fortify camper doors and add deadbolt locks, audible alarms, safes that are hidden and not easily removed, more frequent deposits, be inconspicuous, work with Fairs August 2023 NICA News 18

and/or other Vendors to add additional security personnel in campgrounds, and work to create a “see something say something” culture.

On Tuesday at the NICA Business Expo, NICA will be presenting a DOT seminar sponsored

by Hummel. Buddy Walls, who presented at Marketplace in December, will be discussing compliance and fleet safety. Whether or not you have a DOT number, I would like to invite and encourage everyone to attend. Buddy has over 40 years of experience working in the Trucking Industry and is a humble man with a wealth of knowledge. We will make sure to leave time for questions. This is an important seminar for many reasons, but most importantly because we are seeing a sharp increase in the number and severity of motor vehicle accidents. This is attributable to distracted driving, inexperienced drivers, drug, and alcohol use, and as one Insurance company executive described it, “an increase in road rage.” Much of this is compounded by the labor shortages, and some of the lingering effects of 2020. Please mark your calendars for Tuesday, February 6th at 9:00 AM at the Sheraton Tampa Brandon Hotel. I hope to see you there.

On a personal note, as many of you know, I am an avid whitetail hunter and thoroughly enjoy Phil is preparing the next generation of hunters—this is his daughter Lydia’s eight-point buck!

Mindy and Phil Teague with their nine children

taking young or first-time hunters into the timber.

My daughter Naomi (11) got her first deer on Ohio’s bow opener, my daughter Lydia (15) harvested a beautiful eight-point, and my Pastor (60) whom I have invited to go hunting for well over a decade decided 2023 was the year he would take me up on it. Shooting a crossbow (and rifle) for the first time in his life (we spent days and hours on the shooting range), on his fourth trip to deer woods he was able to harvest an 11-point buck of a lifetime.

My oldest son, Hunter (19), started Wooster Meats, a deer processing business that he may expand to include chicken processing in 2024. Additionally, this Summer, my family and farm were chosen for a photo shoot (pictured above) for Muck Boot Companies’ spring footwear line—an exciting experience!

May 2024 be a solid year with rain only on Mondays. Thank you and God Bless! ▲

Are You Signed Up? Every Regular and Additional Member automatically receives access to $10,000 Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Coverage when joining NICA. In addition, NICA and Hummel Group have created a NICA Health Plan that is available for all NICA Members. We encourage you to apply! Call (866) 569-1304 or visit nicainc.org/health to enroll.

January / February 2024 NICA News 19

Welcome to Florida!

We look forward to seeing you at the 2024 NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods Food Show, where this year’s theme is “Tomorrow Starts Today!” The NICA Business Expo, sponsored by Hummel Group, will be held Monday through Wednesday, providing Workshops and Discussion Groups which cover the issues and the daily challenges our Industry is faced with “Today” in order to prepare you for what will come “Tomorrow.” We will kick off the week with CPR and ServSafe classes, both held on Monday, February 5, 2024.

Later that evening, we also invite you to attend the Annual General Membership Meeting, where we will hold our Year in Review, install the 2024 Board of Directors, hold the Coca-Cola Membership Contest, and hear from Benefit Partners. Afterwards, during the event’s Legacy Celebration we will highlight the NICA Foundation, honor Dominic Palmieri, CCE as

20 January / February 2024 NICA News

our 2023 Hall of Fame Recipient, and enjoy a delicious buffet courtesy of Fare Foods.

The Fare Foods Food Show will run Tuesday and Wednesday evening and will feature over 50 Exhibitors showcasing the latest products, food trends, and technology that will define and kickstart the 2024 Fair Season. The schedule is planned so you can attend all Expo and Food Show events, engage in Industry Roundtables on “Hot” topics, and network every day with other NICA Members.

Register TODAY! It’s EASY! It’s FREE! Go to www.nicainc.org/2024, scroll down until you see “Register,” follow the directions, and choose your Food Show time slot.

Monday, February 5, 2024 8:30 AM—12:30 PM & 4:30—5:30 PM: Onsite Registration........................................................................ Lobby 9:00—11:30 AM: Heartsaver CPR Class $30 Fee • Limited class size..................................................... Palm Room Sponsored by NICA Foundation, Sweet Cheeks & The Thomas Hodson Company Presenter: Melissa Mashaw, Tampa Bay CPR CPR is a must-have skill for anyone who works or attends public social events like Fairs and Festivals. Class includes Adult (dummies provided), Child, and Infant CPR, Choking, AED, EpiPen instruction, and quiz. American Heart Association cards will be issued upon successful completion of the class.

11:30 AM—12:30 PM: Lunch Buffet.................................................................................................. Panfilo’s Grill 12:30—4:30 PM: ServSafe Food Manager Class $90 Fee • Limited class size. ...................................... Palm Room Sponsored by NICA Foundation, Leimon’s Pizza & The Thomas Hodson Company Presenter: Dave Steck, Serve it Up Safe!

ServSafe is a Food and Beverage training program established to ensure safety in the Foodservice Industry. Class includes a four hour review session followed by a 90-question ServSafe Food Manager’s Certification Exam. Upon successful completion of the exam, your Food Manager Certificate will be valid for five years in all 50 States.

5:30—6:45 PM: Annual General Membership Meeting Wristband required.....................................Cypress Room Sponsored by Southern Oregon Food & Beverage The Annual General Membership Meeting features the Board of Directors Installation, Year in Review, CCE Awards, Membership Contest Awards, Old and New Business, and Greetings from Outgoing and Incoming Presidents.

6:45—7:15 PM: Cocktails Wristband required. ..................................................................................Ballroom Foyer 7:15—10:00 PM: Legacy Dinner & Celebration Wristband required........................................................... Ballroom Legacy Dinner sponsored by Fare Foods, Pacific Crest Concessions & R.E. Smith Winner’s Hour Activities sponsored by Fluffy’s Donuts & Jack’s Fries NICA’s Legacy Celebration includes “Building on Strong Foundations,” presented by Jo Reynolds, CFE, IAFE Chair; celebrates NICA’s gratitude for Hall of Fame Recipient Dominic Palmieri, CCE and his contributions to NICA and the Industry; and features Vendor Presentations, the NICA Foundation Spotlight, and Winner’s Hour Activities.

Tuesday, February 6, 2024 8:00 AM—8:00 PM: Onsite Registration....................................................................................................... Lobby Tuesday Educational Workshops sponsored by Meester Mikes of Coral Gables & The Apple Cart

9:00—10:30 AM: DOT Update............................................................................................................... Palm Room Sponsored by Hummel Group Moderator: Phil Teague, Hummel Group • Presenter: Buddy Walls, Carrier Software Embark on a comprehensive exploration of the present and future landscape of the Department of Transportation (DOT). This workshop is designed for transportation professionals and others seeking a deep dive into the current trends, challenges, and innovations within the DOT framework.

10:45—11:45 AM: Food & Beverage Trends........................................................................................ Palm Room Moderator: Audrey Poole, Fare Foods • Vendors: Alpha Baking; Berk Enterprises; Gold Medal Products; Kaiser Pickles; WNA Specialty Prints; Whirley Drinkworks!

11:45 AM—1:00 PM: Box Lunch & Roundtable Topics....................................................................... Palm Room Sponsored by The Best Around Topics: Food Trucks, Hours and Days of Operation, Internet Infrastructure, Multi-Year Agreements, and Weather Protocols Pick up your complimentary box lunch and sit at a table with a topic you would like to discuss. You will be able to participate in two different topic discussions during this session.

Schedule is subject to change; visit www.nicainc.org/2024 and check signage for final details.

January / February 2024 NICA News 21

1:15—2:15 PM: Blue Ribbon Guest Service Tips................................................................................ Palm Room Presenter: Rey O’Day, Executive Director Learn essential strategies and practical tips to elevate your guest service to blue ribbon standards, ensuring a memorable and exceptional experience for every attendee and empowering you to create an environment that not only meets but exceeds expectations.

2:30—3:30 PM: The Next Generation is Here...................................................................................... Palm Room Moderator: Kim Barr, CCE, President • Panelists: Dennis Fraleigh, F&W Concessions; Ryan Hagy, East Council and DeAnna’s Steak Sundaes; Rachel Lough, Assistant Rental Director, Ohio State Fair; Nathan Wells, CCE, West Council; Rebecca Wells, Pacific Crest Concessions We have been asking the question, “Where is the Next Generation is coming from?” We are not looking for them anymore—they are here. Meet the Next Generation that has now arrived and hear their thoughts on how they do business.

3:45—4:45 PM: Fiserv/Clover Update . ............................................................................................... Palm Room Moderator: Jennifer Giordano, CCE, Foundation Treasurer • Presenter: Tina Hollis, Fiserv/Clover Gain valuable insights into the latest features and advancements with Fiserv/Clover, hear about the upcoming product rollouts, and enhance your understanding of point-of-sale technologies for seamless transactions and improved business operations.

4:50 PM: Food Show Ribbon Cutting................................................................................. Lobby & Entrance Hall Sponsored by F&W Concessions

5:00—7:00 PM: Fare Foods Food Show Group 1-T • Wristband required........................... Entrance Hall & Ballroom 7:00—9:00 PM: Fare Foods Food Show Group 2-T • Wristband required........................... Entrance Hall & Ballroom 9:15—11:00 PM: Fare Foods Hospitality Reception Wristband required............................................... Palm Room

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 10:00—8:00 PM: Onsite Registration............................................................................................................ Lobby 10:30—11:30 AM: NICA Foundation Annual Meeting/Board Installation Invitation Only..................... Brandon 2 Wednesday Educational Workshops sponsored by Miller & Company, The Ringmaster & Wells Concessions

11:45 AM—1:45 PM: NICA Leadership Luncheon Invitation Only. ....................................................... Palm Room Sponsored by Vinnie’s Fine Foods

2:00—2:45 PM: Smart Transactions: Reducing Chargebacks in Your Business............................. Palm Room OABA Workshop • Presenter: Brian Kames, 123iMP This presentation aims to enhance understanding, offer practical insights, and address any queries related to chargebacks, covering an overview of the concept, providing real-life examples, discussing best practices, and concluding with a Q&A session for the audience.

3:00—4:30 PM: Lobbying Update......................................................................................................... Palm Room OABA Workshop • Presenter: HB Strategies OABA’s lobbying firm, HB Strategies, will offer a lobbying update on last year’s activities and the strategy for 2024.

3:00—5:00 PM: Fare Foods Food Show Group 1-W • Wristband required.......................... Entrance Hall & Ballroom 4:45—5:45 PM: Safety & Security ....................................................................................................... Palm Room Sponsored by Hummel Group Moderator: Dan Lusenhop, Treasurer • Panelists: Kelly Grout, 1st Vice President and Jack’s Fries; Tasha Hyder, Clay County Fair; Vincent Nelson, CCE, Immediate Past President; Phil Teague, Hummel Group Whether it’s discussing safety in everyday life, personal security, or workplace safety, this session aims to empower participants with the knowledge and tools needed to stay out of harm’s way.

5:00 PM: NICA East Council Vacation Package Drawing......................................................................NICA Booth 5:00—7:00 PM: Fare Foods Food Show Group 2-W • Wristband required.......................... Entrance Hall & Ballroom 6:00 & 7:00 PM: NICA Foundation For Our Future Drawings......................................................NICA Booth 7:00—9:00 PM: Fare Foods Food Show Group 3-W • Wristband required.......................... Entrance Hall & Ballroom 8:00 & 9:00 PM: NICA Foundation For Our Future Drawings......................................................NICA Booth 9:15—11:00 PM: Farewell Reception Wristband required....................................................................... Palm Room

22 January / February 2024 NICA News

Schedule is subject to change; visit www.nicainc.org/2024 and check signage for final details.

The NICA Hall of Fame award honors distinguished achievements and outstanding contributions by any individual to the health and well-being of this organization by some combination of hard work, influence, financial contribution, or by any other positive method.

We are proud to announce Dominic Palmieri, CCE, Past President, as this year’s Hall of Fame Recipient. Congratulations!

Dominic’s entrepreneurial journey began at the age of 19 when he founded Card VIP Corporation, a shopping center marketing company, and created one of the first grocery store value discount cards. Dominic soon began his foray into the Food Industry as Dominic’s Pizza in 1987, and booked with five Fairs. Over the next few years, the number of Fairs doubled and he formed Odyssey Foods in 1993. Since then, he has established a strong presence with Fairgoers with unique takes on foods and staples such as NY-style Pizza, Cotton Candy, Roasted Corn, Fresh Lemonade, “The Big Rib,” Hamburgers, Fries, Sausages, and Turkey Legs.

He has also built relationships with prominent Fairs across the Southwest, including the California State Fair, LA County Fair (where Rey O’Day booked him for his first large Fair), San Diego County Fair, OC County Fair, Pima County Fair, and Arizona State Fair. According to Dominic, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression!”

Over the last 15 years, Dominic has been an integral part of NICA’s Leadership. Before joining the Board, he spent five years on the NICA Sysco Marketplace Task Force. He was then elected to the NICA Board of Directors in 2014, earning his Certified Concessionaire Executive (CCE) designation in 2016, and eventually serving as NICA President in 2017.

Dominic’s involvement extends to search committees, Gala Auctioneering, and active participation in Educational Workshops. Notably, he initiated successful Poker Tournament fundraisers at Arizona Fairs and has helped plan many others through the years.

Dominic’s commitment to Industry leadership is evident through his Past Presidency of the AZ Showman’s Association, Chairmanship of the WFA Service Member Board, and Membership in the OABA Circle of Excellence since 2004.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dominic is a multifaceted individual. Holding an Arizona Realtor’s License and being a member of the Ferrari Club of America, he is a connoisseur of 80’s music and engages in diverse hobbies such as wine-making, skiing, driving, hunting, and creating gourmet Neapolitan-style pizza.

You may have also seen him on TV as The Midway Gourmet, sharing his unique sense of humor as he showcases delicious Fair Food.

Dominic and his wife Kim are proud parents to four children: Gino, Carmela, Enzo, and Gianna.

Dominic aligns closely with NICA’s core philosophy, emphasizing the importance of communication between Fairs and Concessionaires, delivering value to members through cost savings, raising quality standards, and maintaining the trust of Fairgoers. His legacy is one of entrepreneurship, leadership, and community dedication, making him a truly deserving recipient of the NICA Hall of Fame Award. “Together We Can!” ▲

Have you attended a NICA-related event? Send your photos or coverage to communications@nicainc.org

January / February 2024 NICA News 23

24 January / February 2024 NICA News

The Marketplace Trade Show Ribbon Cutting: Jay Wells, CCE, Director, Bary Bunts, CCE, Director, Stacey PittroffBarona, Secretary, Jeff Thornberry, CCE, Director, Kelly Grout, 2nd Vice President, Vincent Nelson, CCE, President, Rey O’Day, Executive Director, Phillip Delahoyde, Director, Kim Barr, CCE, 1st Vice President, Brandy Arredondo, CCE, Director, Bryan Enloe, Director, Jacqueline Bradbury, CCE, Director, and Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, Past President

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

Monday and Tuesday’s Opening and Closing General Sessions, Educational Workshops, Roundtables, and Trade Shows were packed.

To give you a quick run-down on the numbers, this event featured a non-exclusive Trade Show with 33 Exhibitors, 18 Educational Workshops led by hands-on Event Industry Thought Leaders, 12 Roundtable Topics, and a plethora of Networking Opportunities that were welcome and comfortable—a place where we could all understand we are Customers of each other and “Together” we share a Fair Guest to serve.

On Monday, December 4, 2023, the Opening General Session, sponsored by Southern Oregon Food and Beverage and Wings of Fame Productions, featured a Welcome and

Vincent Nelson, CCE, President, addressing attendees during the Opening General Session

Introduction by Vincent Nelson, CCE, President, and Rey O’Day, Executive Director, and a Greeting from our Benefit Partners Entegra, Fare Foods, Fiserv, Hummel Group, and Sysco.

Clayton Vaughan, Fiserv, then introduced Keynote Speaker Jeremy Parsons, CFE, Iowa State Fair CEO, who taught us how to be “All In!” Monday’s Educational Workshops, sponsored by A Pop Above, The Hideaway, Galaxy Amusement Supply, Hummel Group, Needham Concessions, Rickey’s Jerky, Schantz, Stizzy Works, and Webster Enterprises, began with “Sticker Shock… How Do We Provide Value in an Atmosphere of Huge Price Increases?” moderated by Rey O’Day, Executive Director, with Panelists Phillip Delahoyde, Director; Lisa Gallagos, Cruzer’s Cocina; Dominic Palmieri, CCE, Past President; and Jeremy Parsons, CFE, Iowa State Fair CEO. This well attended workshop tackled the myriad of factors that impact pricing decisions every year, such as market dynamics, rent, fuel, competition, and

Rey O’Day, Executive Director, and Phil Teague, Hummel Group, during the Opening General Session

Jeremy Parsons, Iowa State Fair CEO, giving the Keynote Address “All In!” to kick off the event January / February 2024 NICA News 25

Dominic Palmieri, CCE, Past President, asking the crowd for ideas during the “Sticker Shock” Panel Discussion

Paul Loftis, Westfield Insurance Group, Vincent Nelson, CCE, President, and Phil Teague, Hummel Group, presented “Staying Out of Harm’s Way by Minimizing Risk”

NICA Marketplace attendees discussed “Credit Card Processing Fees” among other topics during Monday’s Roundtable Discussions

“Profits Are Made With Buying Power” with Jay Wells, CCE, Director, and a panel of NICA’s Benefit Partners

Nate and Rebecca Wells, Pacific Crest Concessions, fielding questions at the Generation Forward Breakfast and Meeting

Jeff Thornberry, CCE, Director, leading a panel during “The Nuts and Bolts of Successful Selling 2.0”

Guest expectations. “Understanding the Trends Impacting Retail at Fairs,” sponsored by Webster Enterprises, was presented by Jeff Thornberry, CCE, Director. This presentation gave those in attendance the tools and practical information needed to strategically manage the changes that will be coming to their Retail environments.

Over 200 attendees filled up the Roundtables while they enjoyed boxed lunches, sponsored

by Bobick Concessions and GoCashless, and discussed “What’s on Your Mind?” with topics including “Cashless Sales,” “Credit Card Processing Fees,” “Deposits,” “Hours / Days of Operation,” “Internet Infrastructure,” “Multi-Year Contracts,” “Security,” and more.

The Roundtables were moderated by Jessica Gottsche, East Council Coordinator, and Donna Ruhm, San Diego County Fair (retired).

Monday afternoon’s workshops started off with “Making Social Media and Marketing Work For You” moderated by Jessica Gottsche, Social Media Coordinator, with Panelists Bary Bunts, CCE, The Apple Cart; Danielle Dullinger, Minnesota State Fair; Rachael Lough, Ohio State Fair; and Maria Zaffuto, Sweet Adventure Concessions. This group discussed how to 26 January December / February 2022 NICA 2024 News NICA News

effectively use various social media platforms to increase engagement and drive business to our Industry in ways that were nearly impossible to achieve before. “Profits Are Made With Buying Power” followed, moderated by Jay Wells, CCE, Director, with Panelists Drew Ammerman, Sysco; Todd Patrick, Entegra; Audrey Poole, Fare Foods; and Clay Steadham, Sysco. Our Benefit Partners engaged the audience and offered tips on how increasing their purchasing power with Suppliers may result in the best prices, preferential rates, and more for buying in bulk.

Closing out the afternoon, we all came back together for “Staying Out of Harm’s Way

by Minimizing Risk,” which was sponsored and moderated by Phil Teague, Hummel Group, and featured Presenter Paul Loftis, Westfield Insurance Group. This session focused on strategies and practices aimed at keeping individuals and companies safe while preventing potential harm to them or their property.

The NICA Marketplace Trade Show featured 33 companies that were eager to meet, serve, and strengthen relationships with attendees.

The Trade Show also featured networking opportunities and attendees trying their luck

with Pick-a-Ticket opportunity items, provided

by NICA Leadership. Thank you to Mattress Firm for sponsoring Monday night’s Happy Hour!

On Tuesday, December 5, 2023, the morning began with a Continental Breakfast, followed

by Networking and Planning Meetings for Generation Forward (members under 46), the NICA Commercial Exhibitor Council, and Legacy Families (3rd Generation or higher), where guests enjoyed a tasty meal, fellowship, and discussions with like-minds and new faces.

Tuesday’s Educational Workshops started off with “Infrastructure, Technology, Connectivity and Digital Commerce… Oh My!” moderated by Kim Barr, CCE, 1st Vice President, with Panelists Jim Teece, Project A; and Steve Wrobel, Fiserv/ Clover. These Industry experts explained what we need to have and what we need to know about making technology work well in language that our attendees could understand. Jeff Thornberry, CCE, Director, then moderated “The Nuts and Bolts of Successful Selling 2.0,” sponsored by Webster Enterprises and Rickey’s Jerky, with Panelists Christopher Nielsen, Can-U Marketing; Denise Warner, Happy Cheeks Face Painting; and Edward C. Reeder Sr., Uncommon USA. This panel discussed successful

Buddy Walls, Carrier Software, speaking about DOT safety on Tuesday

approaches to make the most of events, with actionable ideas that attendees could use in their own businesses.

The informative “Critical Safety Conversations: ADA and DOT,” sponsored by Hummel Group, closed out the morning, and was moderated by Phil Teague, Hummel Group, with ADA Presenter Erin Ribar, Duke’s LLC; and DOT Presenter Buddy Walls, Carrier Software.

This led directly into the second day of the Marketplace Trade Show, accompanied by a Tailgate Lunch for all attendees, sponsored by Ania and Phillip Delahoyde, Extreme Food and Beverage; Kim and Dominic Palmieri, Odyssey Foods; Carol and Jay Wells, Wells Concessions; and Whirley DrinkWorks! Once again it was a wonderful time for Exhibitors and Attendees to network and do business with each other.

Starting off Tuesday afternoon, “Programs For Developing Companies From Within” was moderated by Donna Ruhm, San Diego County Fair (retired), with Panelists Dennis Larson, CFE, Midwest Council Coordinator; Melanie Linnear, State Fair of Texas; Nate Janousek, Fun Biz Concessions; and Roger Sharp, Sharp Concepts. This group of Industry professionals discussed programs to grow or train Vendor

Happy Workshop Attendees Paul Blaney and Jason Warrenburg, San Diego County Fair, Charlie Boghosian, Chicken Charlie’s, and Scott Shacklett and Sherry Flores, OVG Hospitality

Patty Tessari, East Council, Clay Steadham, Sysco, Rey O’Day, Executive Director, Dave Grupe, Chef, and Audrey Poole, Fare Foods, at the Trade Show

Alan Harrington, We Have Your Flag, explaining concepts during “Keeping Retail Relevant in a Changing World”

A view of the festive NICA Marketplace Trade Show Floor, where attendees enjoyed a Happy Hour, a Tailgate Lunch, and plenty of networking opportunities with our Vendors January /December February 2024 2022 NICA News 27

Brandy Arredondo, CCE and Kim Barr, CCE with CCE Recipients Gigi Horowitz, CCE, West Council, Savannah Bradbury, CCE, Concession Management Services, Michelle Allen, CCE, East Council, Nathan Wells, CCE, West Council, and Alan Barr, CCE, Pacific Crest Concessions

Concession Trailer winner Lisa Porcelli, The Snax Shack, with Vincent Nelson, CCE, President, and Joe Cetor, Forever Concession Trailers

companies from the perspectives of both Fairs and Concessionaires.

“Designing Grab and Go, Destination Spots, and Locations That Increase Profits” was moderated by Jessica Gottsche, East Council Coordinator, with Panelists Justin Aquino, San Mateo County Fair; James Romer, CFE, Iowa State Fair; and Scott Shacklett, OVG Hospitality. Attendees learned about flexibility, health department requirements, lighting, pay points, volume service, and the movement of product and people. Next, Alan Barr, CCE, Pacific Crest Concessions, moderated “Practical Tips on Propane, Auditing, and Designing Trailers” with Propane Presenter Vincent Nelson, CCE, Auditing Presenter Erica Quintero, and Trailer Design Presenter Joe Cetor.

“Building Healthy Relationships With Your Vendors” featured Moderator Kim Barr, CCE, 1st Vice President, and Panelists Jon Baker, Pima County Fair; Dan Mourning, New Mexico State Fair; Scott Stoller, CFE, Colorado State Fair; and Nathan Vandewarker, Maverick Concepts LLC. This diverse group showcased how to build trust and maintain efficiencies that turn ordinary strategies, best practices, and real-life success stories into the undeniable magic that happens when Vendors and Fairs work hand-in-hand.

Dominic Palmieri, CCE, Past President, and Rey O’Day, Executive Director, during the Closing General Session

28 January / February 2024 NICA News

Past Presidents reminisced with friends and family during the Hall of Fame Reception for 2023’s Recipient Don Delahoyde, CCE

“Keeping Retail Relevant in a Changing World” closed out Tuesday’s workshops with Moderator Jeff Thornberry, CCE, Director, and Panelists Alan Harrington, We Have Your Flag; Nancy Chapman, Chapman Fashion International; Amanda Schlatre, Houston Livestock and Rodeo Show; and Jason Warrenburg, San Diego County Fair. These panelists discussed what Commercial Exhibitors and Fairs need to consider to move successfully into the future.

The Closing General Session was sponsored

by Vincent Nelson, CCE, President, and Kim Barr, CCE, 1st Vice President. Vincent Nelson, CCE and Rey O’Day, Executive Director, addressed the audience, and thanked NICA’s Sponsors and Benefit Partners. Afterwards, Dominic Palmieri, CCE, Past President, explained the meaning behind “Tomorrow Starts Today!”

Next up were the opportunity drawings for the Pick-A-Ticket items and the Concession Trailer, provided by Forever Concession Trailers and won by Lisa Porcelli, The Snax Shack.

Brandy Arredondo, CCE, Director, and Kim Barr, CCE, 1st Vice President, then recognized our 2023 CCE Award Recipients, and friends and family gathered to honor Past President Don Delahoyde, CCE as the Hall of Fame Recipient.

Afterwards, Vincent Nelson, CCE and Kim Barr, CCE made a toast, sponsored by Fred Pittroff, Giant Slide, and Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, CCE, Foundation Trustee, to lead into the Industry Excellence Reception.

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

We hope you can join us at the next NICA Marketplace where we’ll be “Together!” again. ▲

Premier Sponsors

Roundtable Luncheon

Entegra Procurement Services

Bobick Concessions GoCashless

Forever Concession Trailers Refreshed Enterprise Sysco The Coca Cola Company

Tote Bags Entegra Procurement Services

Lanyards & Trailer Giveaway Forever Concession Trailers

Trade Show Happy Hour Mattress Firm

Trade Show Tailgate Lunch Ania & Phillip Delahoyde, Extreme Food & Beverage Kim & Dominic Palmieri, Odyssey Foods LLC Carol & Jay Wells, Wells Concessions Whirley DrinkWorks!

Door Prizes

Program Sponsor

Vic Marcus Concessions

Pima County Fair

Continental Breakfast

Volunteer Dinner Sysco

Arrival Hospitality Suite Audrey Poole, NICA Foundation President

Opening General Session Rey O’Day, NICA Executive Director Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, Southern Oregon Food & Beverage

Keynote Speaker Fiserv/Clover

Closing Celebration Vincent Nelson, CCE, NICA President Kim Barr, CCE, NICA 1st Vice President

Champagne Toast Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, CCE, NICA Foundation Trustee Fred Pittroff, Giant Ride

Chuckwagon Concessions

Commercial Sessions Webster Enterprises

Educational Workshops A Pop Above Bryan Enloe, The Hideaway Galaxy Amusement Supply Hummel Group Needham Concessions Rickey’s Jerky Schantz Mfg. Zach Sawyers, Stizzy Works

Sysco Warehouse Tour Transportation Lisa’s Concessions

In-Kind Brandy Arredondo, CCE, NICA Director OCC Signs January / February 2024 NICA News 29

Fairs RISE in Salt Lake City From November 26–29, 2023, the International Association of Fairs and Expos (IAFE) hosted their Annual Convention for the first time in Salt Lake City at the Salt Palace, with the theme: “Fairs RISE—Reunite, Inspire, Support, and Educate.”

NICA was a Silver Sponsor of complimentary notebooks for all convention attendees and had a booth where you could meet Staff and Board Members, as well as pick up some exclusive NICA swag! We proudly presented or participated in the following workshops:

The NICA Board and Staff celebrated another successful year participating at the IAFE Convention and Trade Show

•

•

“What’s Happening at the Point of Sale?” with Moderator Rey O’Day, Executive Director, and Panelists Gene Cassidy, CFE, Eastern States Exposition, Vincent Nelson, 2023 President, Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, Past President, and Steve Wrobel, Fiserv.

Rey O’Day, Executive Director, speaking during “Using Best Practices as a Tool for Building Successful Relationships”

30 January / February 2024 NICA News

“Using Best Practices as a Tool for Building Successful Relationships,” with Moderator Rey O’Day, Executive Director, and Panelists Justin Aquino, San Mateo County Fair, Lisa Immel, Wisconsin State Fair, and Gentry Miller, The Ringmaster.

The Board of Directors met for their last inperson meeting of the year and closed out the 2023 Strategic Plan, participated in Business Reviews with Benefit Partners, and welcomed special guests including Mike Bradley, MHB Productions, who spoke to the Board about Ag on a Grand Scale. Vincent Nelson, CCE, President, confirmed the election count and congratulated Brandy Arredondo, CCE, Sandy Class, CCE, and Phil Delahoyde on their election.

NICA has been dedicated to strengthening relationships with the Fair Industry since its

Congratulations to Dominic and Kim Palmieri, Odyssey Foods, and Chris Lopez, RCS, on their OABA Circle of Excellence Awards!

Kristen Whicheloe, Southern Oregon Food and Beverage, and Linda Frisco, Office Manager

Vincent Nelson, CCE, 2023 President, and Rey O’Day, Executive Director

NICA Directors running the booth during the IAFE Convention’s Trade Show

inception and one of our long time traditions is engaging in a conversation with our Advisory Committee over a meal during the IAFE Convention. This year’s Advisory Committee Luncheon, sponsored by R.E. Smith, took place on Wednesday and discussed concerns and ideas including Safety and Security, Multi-Year Agreements, Electrical Efficiencies, and Pointof-Sale Systems. The Advisory Committee is composed of a group of Fair and/or Vendor Managers from across the country for three-year terms, including the following: • • • • • •

Justin Aquino, General Manager, San Mateo County Fair (CA) Suzy Cason, Director of Space Sales, Oklahoma State Fair Gene Cassidy, CFE, President/CEO, Eastern States Exposition, and Past IAFE Chair Vicki Chouris, CFE, CEO, South Florida Fair and Palm Beach County Expositions Andy Imperati, President/CEO, Dutchess County Fair (NY) Dan Mourning, General Manager, New Mexico State Fair

• • • • • • • •

Bary Bunts, CCE, Director, with Gentry Miller, Josephine’s Glazed Donuts, and James Romer, CFE, Iowa State Fair

Marla Calico, CFE, IAFE President and CEO, at the IAFE Convention’s Closing Session

Jeremy Parsons, CFE, CEO/Manager, Iowa State Fair and Past IAFE Chair Jo Reynolds, CFE, General Manager, Warren County Fair (IA) and IAFE Chair James Romer, CFE, Concessions and Midway Operations Director, Iowa State Fair Amanda Schlatre, Senior Manager of Exhibits and Events, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Michael Searle, Deputy Director and Smile Engineer, Arizona State Fair Scott Stoller, CFE, General Manager, Colorado State Fair Scott Suchomski, CFE, CEO, Tennessee Valley Fair

During the Closing Session, Marla Calico, CFE, IAFE President and CEO, announced her retirement effective December 31, 2024. We thank her for her leadership and mentorship in the Industry, and we look forward to seeing her on her retirement tour.

Your support and participation in our workshops and meetings in Salt Lake City is much appreciated.

We look forward to the next IAFE Convention, taking place December 1-4 in Phoenix, AZ with the theme, “Building on Strong Foundations.” ▲ January / February 2024 NICA News 31

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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR Regional Council Members This month, we had the chance to interview the newest East Council Member Whitney Fraleigh, from Ruskin, FL. Her responses are below: What is your business and what do you sell?

Fluffy’s Hand Cut Donuts; I sell Giant Hand Cut Yeast Donuts. We usually have over 24 flavors at time and the best-sellers vary, but some of our flavors like our Oreo Donut, Donut Holes, and our Donut Sundae tend to be the favorites.

What does your annual route include?

The Midwest, East Coast, and Florida.

How and why did you become a Concessionaire?

I had a job working for my cousin Dennis Fraleigh when I was 14 at my hometown Fair, Dutchess County Fair. I really enjoyed it and continued from then on to work my Summers and breaks from high school, undergrad, and grad school. Once I graduated I decided I liked it more than what I went to school for and went full-time!

What do you enjoy about being a Concessionaire?

I have always enjoyed the hard work and freedom the Industry gives you. I most enjoy that I am constantly challenged physically and mentally.

There are so many hats Concessionaires wear to run businesses and that keeps every day on the road new and interesting.

How has the Concession Business changed?

The Concession Business has changed a lot. I think the addition of social media and influencers Fluffy’s Hand Cut Donuts providing tasty treats at the Fair

East Council Member Whitney Fraleigh and Noah Cappe filming an episode of Carnival Eats last year

has really created a demand for things and made the demand for specialty foods greater in our Industry. I wish that there would be an easier way to integrate all of this. Trying to manage social media can be its own full time job to stay on top of along with everything else we have to do. Finding a balance to make it all work is challenging at times.

Who inspired you to become a Council Member?

It was a group effort between Jessica Gottsche, East Council Coordinator, and Rey O’Day, Executive Director, over the last year. I helped with the Bowling Fundraiser in West Palm Beach and have always attended NICA events. I could see that there was a demand for some more young women to get involved and felt that I was in a good place to be able to do so.

What do you hope your Council accomplishes?

I hope that we can grow as a Council and recruit some new and young members.

What is your most valuable NICA benefit?

I think the relationship that NICA fosters with Fare Foods is my most valuable benefit. We get our polka dot wax paper from them and many other specialty items and they are so easy to work with!

What is the best way to reach you?

Text me at (845) 332-0588 or email me at whitney@fluffyshandcutdonuts.com. ▲ January / February 2024 NICA News 33

What If I Don’t Know What to Say? Jessica Gottsche, Social Media Coordinator

Have you ever had a little writer’s block? Have you sat down in front of your computer, or phone, knowing you need to get something posted on social media, but the words aren’t coming? Do you have an amazing photo, and need a few sentences to tell the story, and your mind is blank?

It happens to everyone. Writer’s block, perplexed, befuddled, at a loss for words—however you want to describe it—it is frustrating, it is challenging, and it can slow down an otherwise productive day. The real questions are, how do we get over it? How do we move past it? Bottom line, how do I get past it?

Let’s review a few tips and tricks to move past writer’s block and meet our daily and weekly social media goals.

Tip #1: Just Start Writing It is almost always easier to edit an article, a post or a story, so just start putting words on the paper. Get something written, and then come back to it a few hours later with a fresh mind. The space will tell you if you have said what you want, or if you need to start over. The great thing about social media is that you want to remember that a few short sentences is really all you need, so you’re not drafting anything too long.

Tip #2: Speak the Language of Social Media Think about what platform you are writing for and be mindful of the platform’s purpose and users. A post written for LinkedIn should be more professional, informational, and educational than a piece for Instagram or TikTok. You should also remember to spell check and make sure you are grammatically correct. Many of the social scheduling tools can help check for this.

Tip #3: Make your Posts Accessible While thinking about your audience, remember 34 January / February 2024 NICA News

that some may be using screen readers and other technology to read, view, and enjoy your content.

For example, if a follower is using a screen reader and your post is filled with emojis (heart, smiley face, etc.), it will be nearly unintelligible for them.

Tip #4: Keep it Simple When writing for social media, it’s okay to think like a kid. Keep your message short; keep it simple and easy to understand. Say something that is real and use short sentences with plain language. This format is both easier to write and to understand.

Tip #5: Write to the Reader Your social media followers want to know what’s in it for them. They want to know when you’re going to be in their town, what promotions you’re running, and what is going to be new and exciting. They don’t care so much about what the company or employees are up to. Keep in your mind, and in your story, “What’s in it for them.”

Tip #6: Have a Clear Purpose Write one, single point that you want to accomplish with this social media post and let that point drive your story. What do you want your followers to do? Tell them with a single, clear call to action and focus on it.

Tip #7: Use Pictures to Enhance and Inspire your Words If words are hard to come by, start with a picture, just don’t try to write a thousand words.

Even if the platform doesn’t require it, you should still try to include something visual in all posts.

Our Industry lends perfectly to visuals, with great colors and lighting, family fun and so much pure joy, and photos and videos are often easy to come by. Let those images help you tell your story.

So the next time you find yourself with a little writer’s block while trying to prepare your social media, try some of these tips, and see if you can find some inspiration. ▲

This Month’s Member Renewals Debbie Badami

Shan Dobaria

Joseph Kastl

Rob Miller

Michael Barr

Gene Edick

Donald Kenna µ

Mary Beth Mize

Alan Barr, CCE

Bryan Enloe

Perfect Pie LLC dba Leimon’s Pizzeria / GSH Food Services Inc dba The Hideaway Harlingen, TX (2010)

Macey Kenna

Brittany Moran

Paul Farnum

David Koepp

Connie Featherston

Rabab Koepp

Pal Fontana

Scott Kunz

Dondi Frenkel

Guy Leavitt

Pensacola Interstate Fair, Inc. Ray Cammack Shows, Inc. Pensacola, FL (2017) Laveen, AZ (2016)

One Sweet World Amusements Portland, OR (2022)

Randy Fulk

Rene Lerma Castillo

Joshua Nicholson

Rick Girardi

Timothy Lisko

Carole Nickelson

Maryland Association of Agricultural Fairs & Shows Timonium, MD (2020)

Lucas Gobeli

Carol Lundgren

Leah O’Neil

Fran Crone

John Gotz

Hunter Manzo

Chris Pickering

Chad Crutchfield

Lee Grigsby

Shane McGrath

Stacey Pittroff-Barona, CCE

Grigsby Enterprise LLC Shreveport, LA (2015)

Royal Ag. Society of NSW / Sydney Royal Easter Show Sydney, NSW (2021)

Gary Crutchfield

Mark Hill, CCE

Jen Mcguire µ

Cole Concessions Covington, VA (2022) Celebration Services, Inc. Ridgefield, WA (2014) Pacific Crest Concessions Caldwell, ID (2012)

Kim Barr, CCE

Pacific Crest Concessions Caldwell, ID (2012)

Samantha Bluhm

Solem Concessions, Inc. Rochester, MN (2016)

Douglas Bobick

Bobick Concessions Delano, MN (2022)

Connie Boesen

Applishus Inc. Des Moines, IA (2015)

Danny Brown

Danny Brown Amusements Mesa, AZ (2015)

Nancy Chapman

Chapman Fashion International Oakhurst, CA (2016)

Janice Coronoes

Southwest Florida & Lee County Fair North Fort Myers, FL (1997) Crutchee’s Inc. Sumner, TX (2021) Crutchee’s, Inc. Sumner, TX (2012)

WOODY’Z Drinkware Santa Ana, CA (2013) Brogdon Concessions Oceanside, CA (2013)

Suck It Up Concessions Riverside, CA (2016) Lee’s Concessions, Inc. Faribault, MN (2010) Fontana Foods Cape Coral, FL (2011)

Korie’s Kloset Seminole, FL (2022) Ricco’s Concessions Clearfield, PA (2022) Great Jones County Fair Monticello, IA (2015) JL United, LLC (DBA Strawberries & Creme) Waseca, MN (2022)

J&A Food, LLC Phoenix, AZ (2018) Dickerson & Kenna Concessions Lebanon, IN (1993) Dickerson & Kenna Concessions Lebanon, IN (2017) Colonial Nut Roll Co. Milford, IA (2021) Colonial Nut Roll Co. Milford, IA (2021) Galaxy Amusement Sales Tampa, FL (2017)

Ormic Concessions Inc. Brownsville, TX (1998) Triple L Concessions Lowellville, OH (2017) Nikis Concessions Golden Valley, AZ (2017) A Pop Above Yuma, AZ (2018)

Mark Davis

Melissa DeFrain

Island Noodles WI, MN & TX River Falls, WI (2021)

ConcessionMall.com/Pizza Point Concessions Bayard, NE (2018)

Alexcia Jordan

Phillip Delahoyde

North Idaho State Fair Coeur d’Alene, ID (2016)

Phil Miller

The Great Allentown Fair Allentown, PA (2022) Extreme Food & Beverage Ukiah, CA (2011)

Monica Jensen

John Juliano

Mellowship Entertainment West Springfield, MA (2021)

Ventura County Fair Ventura, CA (1993)

Wayne McMurtry

California Ice Cream Company Acampo, CA (2019)

µ 1993-2003

Fanny’s Fabulous Funnel Cakes Ashland, OR (2021) Generations Concessions Columbus, WI (2022)

Cliff Munson

Siskiyou Golden Fair Yreka, CA (2008)

Ryan Needham

Needham Concessions Oak Hills, CA (2012)

Gary Newkirk, CFE

Ulster County Ag. Society New Paltz, NY (2019)

Boyd Newton

Dr. Vegetable, Inc. Wanatah, IN (2017) Barona Enterprises Eagan, MN (2022)

O’Neil Amusements LLC St. Paul, MN (2015) Pickering Events LLC Indio, CA (2016)

M. Hill Enterprises, Inc. dba Olde Tyme Ice Cream Upland, CA (2012)

Log Cabin Concessions Coarsegold, CA (2014)

Miller Concessions, Inc. Big Lake, MN (2013)

Giant Ride, Inc. Roseville, MN (2015)

Debra Poeppelman

Poeppelman Concessions Wapakoneta, OH (1996)

Kenneth Ragley

Food Concession Signs Houston, TX (2019)

Lola Ramirez

J.L.Q. Concessions Sanger, CA (2017)

Jeff Rebh

InnoSeal Systems Charlotte, NC (2007)

2004-2008 2009-2013 2014-2022 January / February 2024 NICA News 35

Are you ready to get engaged in a fun social media project? We have launched a photo contest, using

Tom Tonio Viscusi Taylor Using the hashtag Daniel Wessel ourRobinson brand-new hashtag Preston #MyFairFave! #MyFairFave, on Facebook or Twitter, show us

Ludwig Fish or & Produce Co.yourTaylor Angela’s Concessions Wessel Propane, a photo video of favorite part of being in the Fair International Industry. The owner of photo or Inc. video with the LaPorte, IN (2016) Apollo Beach, FL (2017) Monticello, IA (2019) Duarte, CA (1995)

most likes will receive a NICA Swag Bag. Follow us online for the latest announcements!

Jim Salway

Anne Thompson

Mark Walker

Risa Sanders

Katherine Threatt

David Webster

Southern Oregon Food & Beverage Cave Junction, OR (2022)

Tim Weiss

White’s Concessions Dalton Garden, ID (2022)

Three Rivers Carmelannouncements!

Dyer Concessions VisitOA Finance, LLC Follow usFestival online for the latest Fort Wayne, IN (2022) Maroubra, NSW (2019) www.nicainc.org or search NICA on social media Fairway, KS (2018) Oasis Concessions McLean, VA (2017)

Terri Shell

TnT Concessions, LLC Winterset, IA (2016)

Eatery Huts Fair Oaks, IN (2003)

Tristin Ukmar

David Silvestri

R & J Concessions, LLC DBA Rick’s Concessions Sarasota, FL (2022)

Jennifer Simpson

Jac & Do’s Pizza Tiffin, OH (2015)

Jeremy Solem

Maverick Concepts LLC Escondido, CA (2019)

Jim Swain

CHB Entertainment LLC Coolidge, AZ (2021)

Fun Time Foods Anaheim, CA (2016) Suck It Up Concessions Riverside, CA (2009) Solem Concessions, Inc. Rochester, MN (1995)

Richard Valentine

Nathan Vandewarker

Jay Velez

Swain’s Pizza On A Stick, Inc. Crystal River, FL (2021) µ 1993-2003

Webster Enterprises Spring, TX (2021)

Kristen Whicheloe

Ed White

Giggles Campfire Grill LLC Saint Paul, MN (2021)

Brenda White Vaughn

Nathan Wells, CCE

Diana Wolf

Pacific Crest Concessions, LLC Kuna, ID (2016)

Rebecca Wells

Pacific Crest Concessions, LLC Kuna, ID (2019)

2004-2008 2009-2013 2014-2022

Chesterfield County Fair Chesterfield, VA (2002) Texas Therasoles Waxahachie, TX (2022) Thank you to our 89 Renewal Members for your continued support! All 2023 Renewal Members have a chance to win a $2,000 Travel Package.

“Together We Can!”

Whatever we do for you...Service is at the core of all we do since 1941!

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Fountain Syrup Dispensers and Ice Machines available for purchase. µ 1993-2003 2004-2008 2009-2013 2014-2022 Talk to your FARE FOODS salesman today or call for details 800-651-1601 36 January / February 2024 NICA News

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Horst Schacht....................................................................... 4 Isabella Barona..................................................................... 2 Rob Gottsche......................................................................... 2 Jeff Ross, CCE....................................................................... 2 Michael Barr.......................................................................... 1 Chris Bayle............................................................................. 1 Wesley Boyd Bierworth......................................................... 1 Jay Bohannon....................................................................... 1 Teresa Brander...................................................................... 1 Andrew Cashman.................................................................. 1 Michael Chambers................................................................ 1 Jeremy Crutchfield................................................................ 1 Tommy Davis......................................................................... 1 Joan Ehlers............................................................................ 1 Jim Fraser.............................................................................. 1 Alexandra Graf...................................................................... 1 David Koepp.......................................................................... 1 Charles Miller........................................................................ 1 Marty Miller........................................................................... 1 Mary Beth Mize..................................................................... 1 Dominic Palmieri, CCE.......................................................... 1 Phil Poorman......................................................................... 1 Kathy Ross, CCE.................................................................... 1 Kyla Reusch........................................................................... 1 Craig Sawyers........................................................................ 1 Gary Shepard......................................................................... 1 Clint Yoder............................................................................. 1

Referrals—Board of Directors Jeff Thornberry, CCE............................................................. 9 Vincent Nelson, CCE............................................................. 8 Jacqueline Bradbury, CCE.................................................... 4 Jay Wells, CCE....................................................................... 4 Daryl Whicheloe, CCE............................................................ 4 Bary Bunts, CCE.................................................................... 3 Stacey Pittroff-Barona, CCE.................................................. 3 Brandy Arredondo, CCE........................................................ 2 Bryan Enloe............................................................................ 2 Kim Barr, CCE........................................................................ 1 Kelly Grout............................................................................. 1

Referrals—Foundation Tom Hodson, CCE............................................................... 12 Greg Miller, CCE..................................................................... 2 Audrey Poole......................................................................... 1

Referrals—Regional Councils Albert Valadez....................................................................... 5 Ryan Hagy.............................................................................. 3 Gigi Horowitz, CCE................................................................ 3 Irene Dugan, CCE.................................................................. 2 Michelle Allen, CCE............................................................... 1 Amy Ashby............................................................................. 1 Sandy Class, CCE.................................................................. 1 Ryan Long, CCE..................................................................... 1 Patty Tessari.......................................................................... 1 Steve Vartanian..................................................................... 1

*Referral Listing as of 12/31/23. See back cover for more information, rules, and prizes.

January / February 2024 NICA News 37

Going Round and Round on Insurance?

Protect yourself with risk management and business insurance from a company that specializes in the amusement industry.

Haas & Wilkerson Insurance provides better products and services, leading coverages and limits, and over 80 years of industry experience.

Our well-trained experts specialize in comprehensive insurance and can tailor solutions that are cost-effective and specific to your unique needs.

For a comprehensive review of your coverage and exposure, call 913.432.4400 or visit hwins.com/RoundandRound Independent agent representing Westchester, a Chubb Company, Programs Division. Insurance provided by Ace American Insurance Company and its U.S. based Chubb underwriting company affiliates. Chubb is the marketing name used to refer to subsidiaries of Chubb Limited providing insurance and related services. All products may not be available in all states.

For a list of these subsidiaries, please visit www.chubb.com.

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38 January / February 2024 NICA News

NATIONAL INDEPENDENT CONCESSIONAIRES ASSOCIATION, INC.

For Off ice Use Only

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

Date: #: q Member Renewal

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION q Mr. q Mrs. q Ms.

First Name:

Last Name:

Name of Business: Physical Address:

City :

State:

Zip:

Mailing Address:

City :

State:

Zip:

Primary Phone Number :

Cell / Secondary 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 REGULAR MEMBERSHIP q

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

Regular Member..............................................................$150

q

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

q

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

q Retired Member................................................................. $50

q

Manufacturer / Distributor / Supplier............................ $150

BUSINESS / GROUP MEMBERSHIP

q

Carnival / Circus Operator............................................... $150

q

Association / Special Services....................................... $150

q Additional Member..........................................................$100 q Employee Member............................................................. $75

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

q

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

Additional Member : _______________________________________ Employee Member 1: ______________________________________ Employee Member 2: ______________________________________ Employee Member 3: ______________________________________ REGULAR MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES Check a category below and provide a detailed description of your company’s services in the next column under Business Description.

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.

________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________

q

Food / Beverage

q

Commercial Exhibitors / Retail / Merchants

PAYMENT

q

Attractions / Entertainment

q

Cash q

Check q

Money Order

q

Games

q

Visa q

Mastercard

q

q

Guest Services

Credit Card #:

GENERAL ROUTING INFORMATION List all states / provinces where you conduct your business.

___________________________________________________________

Security Code:

#:

American Express q

Discover

Expiration Date:

TOTAL:

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

Beneficiary : _________________________ Phone : _____________

Applicant’s signature

Date

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

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

National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc. 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511

Time Sensitive Mail • January / February 2024 Issue