July 2022 NICA News by NICA Inc.

Contents • July 2022 Articles & Features 04 This Month’s New & Renewal Members 05 President’s Message 07 Director’s Voice 08 Riffing With Rey 10 Association Announcements 13 Member’s Voice 16 NICA Marketplace, November 6-8: Together We Will Share Ideas, Networking, Products & Services 18 Thriving Partnerships with the Hummel Group 20 NICA Foundation Today 23 Getting to Know Your Council Members July is National Hot Dog Month, with the first observance occuring in 1956. Whether it is a foot-long, served on a stick, contains special ingredients, or served with traditional toppings, it’s time to fire up those grills across the country! NICA is proud to have over 150 members who serve these delicious dogs in various forms each season.

27 27 From the Camera Roll 29 2022 Membership Contest

AdvertiSers 14 Berk 29 Brakebush 15 Bunge Oil 02 Coca-Cola 11 Corfu Foods 22 Fanestil Meats 25 Fare Foods 12 Firestone Financial 30 Gold Medal 15 Heinkel’s 12 Hummel Group 25 K&K 11 Lamb Weston

28 Member Classifieds 26 Mr. G’s 10 Nathan’s Famous 30 Ole Mexican 15 Perfect Stix 22 RIO Syrup 11 RJ Schinner 06 Schantz 29 Soda Parts Express 26 Swanel 21 TasteMaker 30 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 © 1993-2022 NICA, Inc. All Rights Reserved. “Get Involved and Thrive!” July 2022 NICA News

This Month’s Newest Members Anibella Barona

Lisa Gallegos

Isabella Barona

Michael Howell

The Thomas Hodson Company Homosassa, FL

John Koutoufaris

Fare Foods Corporation DuQuoin, IL

Barona Enterprises, LLC Roseville, MN Barona Enterprises, LLC Roseville, MN

Marsha Edwards

Jameson Graham Ltd. Lockport, IL

Cruzer’s Cocina Fullerton, CA Action Foods 2 LLC El Mirage, AZ John The Greek Food Concession Bethel Park, PA

Ann Menchen

Elizabeth (Libby) Ulm

Specialty Insurance Agency Inver Grove Heights, MN

Doug Morgenstern

Paul Muller

OA Finance Lee’s Summit, MO

Welcome to our 10 New NICA Members! See Page 29 for the 2022 Membership Contest Leaderboard. “Together We Can!”

This Month’s Member Renewals Richard Allen

Ron Cheatle

Alexandra Graf

R. A. Kissel

Danny Andreini µ

Jon Colt

Chris Hall

Mark Lancaster

Brandy Arredondo, CCE

Pam Cooper

Todd Hawkins

Bill Lauther

Marco Arredondo

Wanell Costello

Wes Heinkel

Sandra Lewis

Jose Barron

Brent Cristao

Scott Henry

Shawn Loter, GM

Chris Bayle

Darrell DeRouin Sr.

Trey Higdon

Staci McGrew

Jeff Beaver

Randy Dewitz

Mark Hill, CCE

Brian McKay

Joe Betras

Tina Doolan

Sierra Korn Enterprise Oroville, CA (2013) Pronto Pup Company Memphis, TN (1993) Noel’s Foods, Inc Bakersfield, CA (2016) Noel’s Foods, Inc Bakersfield, CA (2016) Mr. G’s Quality Cut Meats Chillicothe, MO (2004) CW Concessions Lakewood, OH (2018) Old Style Foods Salisbury, NC (2012) Whirley-DrinkWorks! Warren, PA (2012)

Matt Bribiesca µ

Bribiesca Concessions Holcomb, KS (1993)

Gary Brown

Gary Brown Concessions Stone Creek, OH (2002)

First Foods Dallas, TX (2021) Lamb Weston Dallas, TX (2008) AZ Exposition & State Fair Phoenix, AZ (2013) Vanee Foods Berkley, IL (2021) Red Barn Food Wagon Escanaba, MI (2002) FanFare Attractions LLC Minneapolis, MN (2019) Doolan Amusement Co. Stuart, FL (2017)

Dan Duggan

Duggan’s Concessions Fresno, CA (2007)

Joanne Fontanini Fontanini McCook, IL (1997)

Dan Carroll

Rob Forner

Monica Chaudury

Jason Gardner

WNA Lenexa, KS (2008) Smithfield Foods Cudahy, WI (2021)

Swanel Beverages, Inc. Hammond, IN (2010)

July 2022 NICA News

Joy Cone Company Hermitage, PA (2007) Gold Medal Products Co. Cincinnati, OH (2001)

Schnitzels & Giggles Bowie, TX (2011) TasteMaker Foods Hernando, MS (1998) The Donut Family Inc. White Bear Lake, MN (2003) Heinkel’s Packing Co., Inc. Decatur, IL (2004) Old Time Portraits LLC Baileys Harbor, WI (2002) Perfect Stix, LLC Vero Beach, FL (2006) M. Hill Enterprises, Inc. dba Goldmark Concessions Upland, CA (2012)

Doug Hively

DH Concessions LLC DBA Lemons on the Loose Tucson, AZ (2018)

Adam Jobe

Valley Meats, LLC Coal Valley, IL (2009)

Bob Kaiser

Kaiser Pickles Cincinnati, OH (2017)

Kissel Entertainment, LLC. Okeana, OH (2019) Vista Mobility Milwaukee, WI (2015) Griff’s Catering Gibsonton, FL (2006) Nathan’s Famous Jericho, NY (2015) Mississippi Valley Fair, Inc. Davenport, IA (1994) Fun Times Inc. Ukiah, CA (2019) Inland Empire Concessions Spokane, WA (2013)

Jim McKiernan

Grant County Fair Moses Lake, WA (2015)

Dennis Merigian µ

Merigian’s Caramel Corn, Inc. Belding, MI (1993)

Michael Miller

Miller Food Concessions, LLC Mauckport, IN (2017)

►► “Renewals” continued on page 28 µ 1993-2002

2003-2007 2008-2012 2013-2021

President’s Message Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, President I hope you are all gearing up for a busy Summer season. For us on the West Coast, most, if not all, of our Spring and early Summer events have been good so far. I hope this trend continues throughout the year. The labor shortage and supply chain problems are still there but they seem to be a little better than last year. That, or we are getting more accustomed to the “NEW NORMAL.” I am not a fan of that expression but these are the times we are living in. By working closely with your Fair partners, product suppliers and with fellow Concessionaires we can all be successful with as little frustration as possible. My thoughts this month are mostly about getting involved. NICA and the Office Staff do a great job getting involved in all aspects of the Fair Industry. For instance, Zone Meetings, State and Regional Conventions, Sister Organizations’ Meetings, and Lobbying for issues that affect our Industry all have a good representation from NICA and the membership. As Concessionaires we love to gather and complain about whatever “this week’s” challenge may be. I have listened and talked with Concessionaires thousands of times during my career about whatever we decided this week’s complaint is. The person who could change the situation was almost never in the conversation with us. This was not getting involved. I don’t consider myself someone who naturally likes to get involved. I like to keep my life simple. While other people enjoy attending Town Hall Meetings, Zoom Meetings, and being on Committees and Boards, I have always preferred not to. Having said that, my time on the NICA West Council and now on the NICA Board of Directors has taught me that if you want to make a difference and want things to change and improve, you have to stand up, say it, and get involved. You need to go to Fair Conventions, Zone Meetings, and participate in Communication Committee Meetings at the Fairs you work at.

Getting Involved

In an effort to be more engaged and involved, I invite you to attend the upcoming NICA Marketplace event in Las Vegas, November 6-8, 2022. This is really going to be a wonderful opportunity for Concessionaires to network, learn, and be heard. This is YOUR event with everything related to Food, Beverage, and Commercial Concessionaires and our Fair Industry. For convention information, as well as our preliminary schedule and rates, view Pages 16 and 17 in this issue. You can also register in just a few minutes’ time at nicainc.org/marketplace. I have learned by getting involved and working with our Fair partners to see the bigger picture. I have realized some of my own downfalls and this in turn has made me a better Concessionaire and team player within the Industry. Your opinion matters and I think you will be pleasantly surprised how receptive our Fair partners are to hear what your thoughts are to improve their Fair and your ability to work there successfully. We currently have a couple of openings for the NICA Board of Directors. If you really want to get involved in our Industry and be a bigger part of the discussions and decisions that impact all of our lives, I strongly recommend you think about serving on the NICA Board or one of the NICA Councils. Not only does being involved help our Industry, it helps you be a better Concessionaire. Visit the website at nicainc.org/nominations, view Page 10 in this issue, or contact the NICA Office at (813) 438-8926 for more information. “Together We Can!” Especially when we get involved! ▲

How Do You Get Involved? It’s easy! There are many opportunities to get involved, ranging from NICA Leadership positions on the Board, Regional Councils, and Strategic Planning Committees to Supportive roles via the Peer-to-Peer Resource Center, Communication Committees, and more. If you are interested, contact the NICA Office. July 2022 NICA News

Joe Potillo, Jr. Greg Miller, CCE Tom Sattler, CCE Russ Harrison, CCE Richard Busse, CCE Officers Tom Hodson, CCE President: Daryl Whicheloe, CCE st 1 Vice President: Vincent Nelson, CCE Jim Hodson, CCE (Deceased) Tim O’Brien, CCE 2nd Vice President: Kim Barr, CCE Ron Smith Treasurer: Dan Lusenhop Adam McKinney, CCE Secretary: Jacqueline Bradbury, CCE Mike Pence, CCE Jack Woods, II, CCE Directors Bob Hallifax, CCE Brandy Arredondo, CCE Frank Parnell, CCE Phil Delahoyde Larry Orme (Deceased) Kelly Grout Larry Sivori Thomas Hodson, CCE Rich Wright Kathy Ross, CCE Bill McKinney, CCE Stacey Pittroff-Barona Arthur Pokorny, Jr. Jeff Thornberry, CCE Gene O’Brien, CCE (Deceased) Jay Wells, CCE

Past Presidents’ Council

Sandy Class, CCE Don Delahoyde, CCE Kathy Ross, CCE Dan Lusenhop Dominic Palmieri, CCE Paulette Keene, CCE

OFFICE STAFF

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

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

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

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

Midwest Council Coordinator: Dennis Larson, CFE

east Council

Bary Bunts, CCE Ryan Collmer Ryan Hagy Thomas Hodson, CCE Patty Tessari Michael Zdebiak, Jr.

Midwest Council

Connie Boesen Sandy Class, CCE dennis@nicainc.org Paulette Keene, CCE Bruce Kozelou Foundation James McConnell President: Audrey Poole Matt Ribar Vice President: Greg Miller, CCE Brad Schroder Treasurer: Jennifer Giordano, CCE April Smith Secretary: Rey O’Day Trustees: Kim Barr, CCE Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, CCE Mark Lancaster Don Kenna Vincent Nelson, CCE Larry Sivori

West Council

Brandy Arredondo, CCE Jodi Dirksen Irene Dugan Jan Gary, CCE Gigi Horowitz Ryan Long Kara Moederndorfer, CCE Ryann Newman Steve Vartanian

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

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July 2022 NICA News

Director’s Voice

Vincent Nelson, CCE, 1st Vice President

As June comes to end and July begins, we have been working on all the equipment to move down the road again for the next five months. My family and employees go through each trailer, lights, brakes, tires, and leaf springs to make sure we are legal and safe to go on the road. Next we go through appliances and soda machines; I find if I do this before my Summer fully starts, it makes the rest of the year go smoother. One big thing I always do is check my panel box and cam-lock box to make sure over the last year nothing has loosened. Every year I seem to find some wire that needs my attention. These things are what makes the Summer season go smoother and safer. I see other Concessionaires fighting problems on the road that should have been looked at before the unit left the yard. I’m fortunate to have been taught how to do a lot of this maintenance over the years. That being said, I’m a trained gas technician, so if you ever have a problem and it’s something I can help with give me a text at (845) 656-7647. I will always try to help even if you have never met me. People always ask me, “What will NICA do for me,” or “What do I get when I sign up?” I always go on about how much I save from Pepsi National Pricing or how I have used CLC Lodging to save on hotels; both of these are great benefits, along with discounts on products from Entegra, Goodyear, Arrow, HD Supply, Sherwin-Williams, AutoZone,

Attention Members! Do you need our help?

A Member’s Value Sysco, and GrayBar and rental vehicles from Budget and Hertz. The list goes on. Of course, you can view all of these and more in our Membership Benefits Guide (available at nicainc.org/benefits), included once a year in NICA News and in each welcome package sent out to New Members. But that’s not all! To be honest, I’ve learned the best thing a NICA Membership gives to me is its members. There is nothing better in our Industry then getting to an event and seeing our members and their willingness to help you, or sometimes the role is reversed, when members are waiting on me so I can help them in one respect or another. We do so many great things for each other. A few years ago I was playing a Fair new to me with one of our lemonade stands, and to be honest, I under-ordered my product for the event. Unfortunately, there was no commissary on the Fairgrounds or any place to get products that I needed once I realized I did not have enough. I went and talked to the owner of a lemonade that was across the street from my lemonade. I had never met this person before playing this event, but after talking with him, he helped me out with a few cases of lemons. Come to find out, it was because I had mentioned NICA in our conversation and it turned out that he was also a member, so he helped me. That is the one of the best parts of NICA, “Together We Can!” It does not matter if you are a big operation or a small one. Just always be willing to help each other. ▲

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

Ads start at $25 per month and are also viewable online at www.nicainc.org/classifieds Contact us by email at communications@nicainc.org or phone at (813) 530-4750 to learn more! July 2022 NICA News

Riffing With Rey

Rey O’Day, Executive Director

Pandemic Changes

With a song in my heart, I greet you with, “It’s You will recognize some of the answers to Summertime, Summertime, “How Did The Pandemic Change The Temporary Sum, Sum, Summertime… Food Industry?” because I learned the answers Summertiiiiime!” from talking with you. That is one of my favorite This season kicks off with things to do… the Fourth of July, when we The Temporary Food Industry made it through proudly honor this Land of the Pandemic because it was nimble, resilient, Liberty that we love!!! During and entrepreneurial. Since the Pandemic, the this time, we hit the road to provide and celebrate Concession Food Industry is doing “more with one of the strongest community traditions we less” at every touch point... sometimes with much have: grazing on an abundance of “Fair Food” and frustration and sometimes quite successfully. “Fair Products” all across America. It is also a time What is clear is that the aforementioned skills are of year when publications interview me going to be even more important going regarding the upcoming season. As forward. part of a larger article, Carnival As Fairs have opened, Warehouse asked me, “How Fairgoers have arrived in “Since the did the Pandemic Change the droves and in the mood to Pandemic, the Mobile Food Industry?” buy. We do not know how concession food I am choosing to long that euphoria will last industry is doing ‘more change the word “mobile” as inflation eats away at with less’ at every to “temporary” in order to disposable income. Having move us out of the Food touch point... sometimes just paid $6.59 for a gallon Truck assumption that we of gas, I wonder if the with much frustration cook while driving or have “staycation” won’t become and sometimes quite converted a driving vehicle to popular again. If it does, that successfully.” be a kitchen. We temporarily will keep Fairs in the spotlight set up on a Fairgrounds as a place to take your family. for multiple days to cook and Much has been written about serve food from a self-contained, where, how, and why the workforce professionally equipped facility that has been disappeared during the Pandemic, but built or set up with no other purpose than to serve the difficulty finding labor is still on the lips of food to guests. Health Departments, HUD, and everyone with whom I speak. The supply chain state agencies please pay attention… we are not of an available workforce is broken. This means Food Trucks. owners work their locations more and longer and 8

July 2022 NICA News

they have fewer persons to hire for help. Going to school teaches young people to show up on a regular basis. Fairs are where many of them have their first job. The Pandemic sent them home and left them mostly without the routines that taught us how to organize our lives. The result is that a new hire may show up for the first day, but they are not very good at showing up for the next few days consistently. Moreover, the help is untrained and expecting high dollar hourly wages. It is a surprising dilemma, when as business owners we are constantly weighing the value of a person’s skills versus how much the position is worth in payroll dollars. In summary, labor has a new mindset. They want more money (trained or not), they want to work less (and on their own terms), and the overall work ethic has softened. We are grateful for the help that wants to learn, work, and be available when needed. Let’s be kind to the ones who do show up. Because of labor shortages and product chain challenges, many menus have been pared down. For the same reasons Vendors, who in the past might have booked five stands at a Fair, today have cut back to two or three stands, only to discover that they are able to make the same or better net money with fewer stands. One of those “I am making a decision to survive and the result is I am thriving” moments. Price increases are causing angst. Wholesale prices in 2022 are up 10.8% and protein is more than that. Portion size and quality have become factors. How much can be passed on to the guest? As Purveyors and Fairs, we are balancing between what is fair and what is necessary. The primary factors in determining prices are cost of goods, labor, and rent. Percentage Rent Fairs receive more money when the menu prices go up (and they are going to); so perhaps they would consider helping the equation by lowering the rent percent by a point or two until we move through this. During the Pandemic, “touchless payments” swept the nation and became the new marketing strategy of point-of-sale companies creating some challenging consequences and questions for Fair Guests, Fairs, and Fair Vendors. Before I continue about payment methods, I must state that NICA’s policy statement is that “Businesses should accept payment from the customer in the method they want to pay it.” To that I am going to add an opinion alert—let’s not forget that COVID is primarily spread

through droplets in the air, not by touch, though constant hand washing is always a healthy habit. Now we see signs reading “cash only” and “cashless only.” We say we are an inclusive Industry yet “cashless only” pre-qualifies out the customer that is underbanked, unbanked, or credit cardless, which is about 25% of the adult population. Less cash means An example of an all-inclusive payment less concern about theft sign at the Fair and the violence that can occur around a robbery. Credit card usage seems to have increased at least 20% and the per ticket transactions are higher; yet the service fees are on the rise, which raises the cost of doing business. Vendors are expected to accept credit cards from Fair Guests, but Fairs are refusing to accept credit card payments from Vendors. We are in a fulcrum moment when the ways people make payments are changing. I suggest we follow the customer on this one and not force them into what is convenient for business, but not necessarily for them. I think that is the definition of the “customer is always right,” what we call customer service. Some other business changes that are going to be around for a while are shorter event operating hours, wild swings in wholesale prices, Wi-Fi becoming an infrastructure requirement, inflated gas prices, abandoning “just in time” concepts, hoarding products, changing routes, charging stations for devices, tipping policies, insurance coverage exceptions, and products that are in abundance and then disappear only to reappear later. It is a puzzling time as we integrate the changing phases of COVID into our lives. It is also invigorating. We are becoming more adaptable, finding efficiencies, delivering solutions, asking new questions, learning when less is more, laughing out loud at the absurdities, thinking differently, and hopefully choosing patience and deep breaths over anger and frustration over what we cannot change and over which we have very little influence. What I do know is “Together We Can… (you add the next phrase)!” “Warmest” regards, Rey. ▲ July 2022 NICA News

Association

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

Director Nominations Have Been Extended to July 30th NICA is currently accepting nominations for this year’s Board of Directors election. The Board voted to extend the deadline for Board Election Nominations to July 30th in the hopes that you will see each other and encourage each other to run for the Board or maybe even run yourself. Joining NICA’s Board offers many opportunities to have your voice heard, connect with other professionals in the Fair Industry, and to further the cause of NICA. Learn more by visiting or calling (813) 438-8926. To qualify, all that is required is a signed “Statement of Commitment,” an “Election Nomination Form” with 10 signatures supporting the nomination, a biography, answers to a short questionnaire, and a photograph suitable for publication. All forms can be found online at nicainc.org/nominations and can be emailed to nominations@nicainc.org, faxed to (813) 803-8460, or mailed to 1043 E. Brandon Blvd. Brandon, FL 33511. Call the NICA Office at (813) 438-8926 if you have any questions or need the forms sent to you. ▲

Apply Today for a First Timer’s Convention Scholarship Have you always wanted to attend a NICA Convention but just haven’t committed to it? Whether it be because of expense, timing, or any other reason, the NICA Foundation is here to help get you there! Up to three NICA Members will receive $500 each towards travel expenses when attending the 2022 NICA Marketplace in Las Vegas, NV or 2023 NICA Business Expo in Tampa, FL. To qualify, you must be a first-time attendee to a NICA Convention, a current NICA Member, currently active in the Industry, and available to assist NICA during the Convention of choice. Once you attend, you are also required to submit an article of Convention experience to NICA News. Make sure to apply by September 16th for NICA Marketplace and December 15th to attend the NICA Business Expo. To learn more and apply online, visit nicainc.org/first-timers ▲ 10

July 2022 NICA News

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July 2022 NICA News

Member’s Voice 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. Theresa Johnson, All American Restaurant and Grill, from Loxahatchee, FL, has been serving up Baby Back Ribs, her specialty, among other grilled and fried food favorites, desserts, and more for the last 18 years. She stated that her relationship with NICA (going on nearly ten years) has been “very beneficial because of the many discounts!” Theresa described her business as a “one-stopshop at the Fair.” She stated that people used to love to come in as a family: “They didn’t have to run from booth-to-booth-to-booth. We didn’t have every single thing but we had a big variety to our menu.” When she started in the business, she had never done Concessions before, previously working as a seamstress and in medical and real estate fields. “I’ve done a lot in my life! My partner at the time had done food and my two sons were in the Food Industry for a while as well.” After they went up north to West Virginia for work, Theresa found her chance to buy a permanent restaurant at the West Virginia Fairgrounds: “They said, ‘You can do this!’ If we are all going to move up there, we can figure it out!” Over the years they won the “Blue Ribbon Award” several times being judged on presentation, decorations, cleanliness, prices, and

The All American Restaurant and Grill in its patriotic glory at the West Virginia State Fairgrounds

quality. She worked mostly with her sons, Justin and Jeremie, who were in charge of the kitchen, cooking, maintenance, etc., while she did all the rest, such as paperwork and organizing. In the last few years, she had her fair share of problems related to the Theresa Johnson, All Pandemic. She shared, American Restaurant “We were in between two and Grill hard places. Everyone was closed in 2020 and last year everybody was suffering with nobody to work.” Additionally, when she ran into a supply issue with waffle fries last year, she found that curly fries were a decent subsitute: “Sure enough it was delicious. When you use the coiled fries you don’t use as many, so there would be less product in a tray. We try to be careful in portion size. It makes a difference!” Theresa has made use of several benefits over her time in the Industry, mentioning Fiserv and the NICA Sysco Marketplace: “I’ve done Sysco all 18 years I’ve been there!” According to her, AutoZone not only gave her a discount, but saved her a trip to the dealership, as they figured out the problem was a faulty gas cap, and Sherwin-Williams saved her “a bunch” when she painted her building. In addition, she states that the NICA News keeps her up-to-date with current events: “I’ll read it online and then I like looking at it in the magazine too when I get it.” After owning and operating the All American Restaurant and Grill for the last 18 years, she sold the property this year, finding success after running classifieds in the NICA News and local papers. According to Theresa, “Retirement was due. I enjoyed it, but I am happy to be back in Florida!” ►► “Voice” continued on page 14 July 2022 NICA News

“Voice” continued from page 13 ►► Believe it or not, Theresa had originally bought the building from the Frankfort Volunteer Fire Department and the new owners are from the Ronceverte Volunteer Fire Department: “It was a full circle! I was glad that happened since it is for the community. They saw that they can make some money.” What does she think of the new owners? She shared, “They had a million questions! No one thinks that others could be up to the task like we were, because we functioned like crazy people. I said, ‘You should probably start with our menu, and the people know what to expect. You can add and change the year after. Get used to what you have.’ I hope they do well.” How about the process? “We had to be approved by the Fairgrounds, which was a little trying, but I pushed it through since it was going to help them too.” Theresa wishes to thank all of her faithful customers for all of their many years of support. She also said that it was bittersweet, because her repeated workers became her Fair Family, along with other Vendors, and she

July 2022 NICA News

Theresa’s 2021 crew brought a renewed success to the All American Restaurant and Grill after a year of struggles

will miss them. “It feels like a big Family and it is like a reunion each year. It’s the buzz of the Fair!” The Transfer of Ownership is a very important topic that faces our membership, which can be very difficult for both generational and non-generational businesses. Although Theresa’s situation was not typical, we are happy to see the communication between Fairs and Concessionaires improving. For more information on the Transfer of Ownership, view the related White Paper on our Peer-to-Peer Resource Center at nicainc.org/resources. 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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July 2022 NICA News

Dear Business Owners/Managers, Fair Industry Leaders, Trade Show Exhibitors, and YOU: we are proud to announce the upcoming NICA Marketplace Convention and Trade Show, taking place November 6-8, 2022 at the Tuscany Suites and Casino in Las Vegas, NV. In 48 hours you will network with colleagues, discuss practical solutions, enjoy storytelling, and return enriched. “Together We Can!” This inaugural event will feature a non-exclusive Trade Show, Educational Sessions led by hands-on 16 May July2022 2022NICA NICANews News

Event Industry Thought Leaders, and Networking Opportunities that are welcome and comfortable—a place where we all understand we are Customers of each other and “Together” we share a Fair Guest to serve. The event will be held at the beautiful Tuscany Suites and Casino, Las Vegas, NV. $79 Room Rate Sunday, November 6th through Thursday, November 10th, with no resort fee ($39 waived), suite sized rooms with kitchenettes, free Wi-Fi, and Free Parking! See you in Vegas!

Sunday, November 6, 2022 2:00 – 6:00 PM: Registration 4:00 – 7:00 PM: NICA Marketplace Welcome Hospitality Evening on your own

Monday, November 7, 2022 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Registration

2:00 – 3:15 PM: Educational Workshops 3:30 – 4:45 PM: Educational Workshops 5:00 – 8:30 PM: Marketplace Trade Show and Happy Hour Evening on your own

Tuesday, November 8, 2022 9:30 – 10:45 AM: Educational Workshops

9:30 – 10:45 AM: Marketplace General Session featuring Keynote Speaker Michael Bradley, “Think Like Walt,” and NICA Benefits Review, “Together We Can Save!”

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Marketplace Trade Show

11:00 AM – 12:15 PM: Educational Workshops

5:15 – 7:00 PM: Industry Excellence Reception

12:30 – 1:45 PM: Box Lunches and Roundtables

Evening on your own

1:15 – 2:15 PM: Ask Me Anything: Fair Leadership 2:30 – 3:30 PM: Ask Me Anything: Business Owners 3:45 – 5:00 PM: Educational Workshops

Schedule is subject to change; visit www.nicainc.org/marketplace and check NICA Now! for updates.

$99 Early Bird Member Registration

Book Your Hotel Room Online

Register yourself and additional attendees for NICA Marketplace by selecting the link at nicainc.org/marketplace and logging into your Membership account. You may choose a Member ($99) or Non-Member ($129) rate.

Book your hotel reservation at $79 with no resort fee at nicainc.org/marketplace by selecting your check-in and check-out dates, along with your occupancy needs. Don’t delay!

Contact the NICA Office at (813) 438-8926 if you do not have a login account or need your password. On-site registration will increase $100 per person.

Reserve your Marketplace Trade Show Booth for $1,095 (two attendee registrations, draped space and Exhibitor ID sign, 8’ x 10’ location, and more included) at nicainc.org/marketplace.

Become a NICA Marketplace Exhibitor

Marketplace Membership Promotion: When registering, add or become a new NICA Member for $100 and you will also get the $99 Early Bird rate ($80 savings)

July 2022 NICA News

Thriving Partnerships Andy Yost, Benefits Risk Advisor, Hummel Group

My name is Andy Yost and I am a Benefits Risk Advisor with the Hummel Group. I have been a resident of Northeast Ohio my entire life. I currently live an hour south of Cleveland with my wife Jessica, our daughter Rosemary and our identical twin boys Henry and William. I spent 10-plus years in the business world working in sales and operations management. Before joining the Hummel Group two and half years ago, I was the Vice President of Sales for a successful manufacturing operation. With my background in business, I bring a unique perspective to the client experience in that I understand the day-to-day challenges businesses face. Now, I am able to leverage that background to provide sound counsel on how employee health and welfare fit into the equation. I have been working with the fine folks at NICA for a short time, but our agency, the Hummel Group, has a long-standing relationship with your organization. Protecting your business operations through the use of commercial insurance has been our primary focus to date, but starting in early 2022 we launched a health plan where you can get coverage for yourselves and your employees. The topic of health insurance evokes a litany of emotions. The mere utterance of the words elicits an inherent skepticism in many people due to the spiking costs and deteriorating coverages. Like many, I was a skeptic when it came to health insurance. That was until the birth of our first child. At six months old it was discovered that she had a rare chromosome abnormality meaning she would live a life with certain special needs. Throughout this journey I realized two things, which ultimately led me to make a career change and join the health and benefits industry: 1) the financial protection that health coverage provides, and 2) the process through which health coverage is both acquired and serviced by a business needs drastic improvement. 18

July 2022 NICA News

with

From this background I make it my goal when working with employers, regardless of size, to make sure they know what options they have for health plan coverage. The healthcare landscape is constantly shifting so it can be a difficult task to keep up with what is available and what compliance regulations your business may fall under. The easy solution is to simply not offer a health plan. At the employer level, if you under 50 full time employees (FTEs) you are not subject to the Affordable Care Act “employer mandate” and do not need to offer a health plan. However, offering benefits to your employees can be one of the most powerful tools to both attract and retain top talent. In this article we will explore the benefits of offering a health plan through your business and go over in more detail the new health plan that is available exclusively to NICA Members. I recently received a voicemail from a client wanting to know more information about the dental policy offered through his business. The business owner runs a successful welding operation with over 75 employees where he offers multiple lines of benefit coverages to employees. The owner was inquiring because he had a key employee he wanted to hire, but the prospective hire was comparing his current dental benefits with what was available to him from my client’s dental plan. It was in this moment that I realized the leverage employees have in today’s labor market. This prospective hire was not concerned about wages, or even the medical coverage, but the dental benefits as the determining factor in his career choice. Whether you already offer a health plan, do not offer a plan, or are considering offering

one, as a business owner the topic requires consideration and evaluation. For those that offer coverage, excellent. For those that are on the fence, some of the key employee benefits of employer sponsored health coverage include: •

•

Recruitment – As mentioned in the aforementioned example of my client’s prospective hire, offering health coverage can be a powerful recruitment tool. Next to wages, prospective hires often look to what benefits are made available to them when deciding on where to work. Retention – Employees are more likely to stay with a company that offers insurance benefits as they value the financial protection that comes with health coverage.

Andy Yost, Hummel Group, at the NICA Business Expo session, “What Should Today’s Insurance Package Include?”

exclusively to NICA Members. The steps to getting rates to determine if the NICA Health Plan is right for your business is simple:

1 2

•

Convenience – Accessing benefits through an employer can save employees time and confusion as it can be a difficult journey to navigate securing benefits as an individual.

•

Savings – Employer sponsored health plans are often more affordable and offer better benefits than what a person can find on the individual marketplace.

Having highlighted some of the benefits of sponsoring a health plan, the next step is to identify what options employers have when looking to access a health plan. One challenge that many small businesses face is the size of their group and its impact on rate fluctuation. Depending on the health plan platform, smaller groups can tend to have unstable rates due to their claims paid versus premium received ratio spread across a smaller group of enrollees. To alleviate these challenges, the DOL introduced and expanded the availability of Association Health Plans in 2018. An Association Health Plan (AHP) is a type of ERISA-covered group health plan sponsored by a group or association of employers (instead of a single employer) to provide health coverage to employees of the AHP’s employer members. Essentially, AHPs give small employers the ability and leverage to operate as a larger employer in an effort to stabilize rates. The Hummel Group has partnered with NICA to introduce the NICA Health Plan, which rests on this AHP platform and is available

Complete a Census – This will capture basic information on your business and employees. Complete Personal Health Questionnaires (PHQs) – Employees interested in enrolling will need to complete a questionnaire outlining health history. This is all done through a secured link you can send employees. Review Plan and Rates – Once the risk is determined from the PHQs, the Hummel Group will setup a call to review rates and plan options. Choose Your Plan and Enroll – There are several plan designs to choose from including copay plans and HSA-compatible plans. Coverage is effective the first of every month.

If you are on the fence about sponsoring a health plan, or would like to compare how your current health plan compares to the NICA Health Plan, our team would be glad to go review your options with you. There are many ways to apply. One is to simply go to the NICA homepage at www.nicainc.org, select Benefits on the menu bar, and find the NICA Health Plan link. You can also call us directly at (866) 569-1304. We are very proud to partner with NICA and its membership! ▲

Have You Signed Up? Many NICA Members have already started their coverage under the NICA Health Plan, and we encourage you to apply. Call (866) 569-1304 or visit hummelgrp.com/nicahealth to enroll. Afterwards, Hummel’s Andy Yost or Audrey O’Brien will contact you to take the next steps. July 2022 NICA News

Raising Funds for NICA Scholarships this Summer NICA started the NICA Foundation in the Spring of 2020, the same Spring that bought us the COVID lockdown. We worried whether we could “Survive” the timing of its beginning. Instead, we are “Thriving” in our mission to foster leadership development in the Fair and Event Industries by providing support through educational scholarships and by enhancing training and professional services. During the next two years, due to the generosity of our members, we surpassed our scholarship award goals in both years. We awarded 18 recipients $33,500 in 2020 and 17 recipients $30,000 in 2021. We continue to foster the Read and Win program with IAFE, have begun a First Timer’s NICA Convention Scholarship Program that enhanced the learning possibilities of four members at the NICA Business Expo, developed the Peer-to-Peer Resource Center and are exploring the educational links between Food and Beverage and American Agriculture with our Fairs across the country. Strong companies like Coca-Cola Refreshments, Fare Foods, Giant Ride, McConnell Concessions, O’Brien’s Food Service, R.E. Smith, Sivori Catering, The Hummel Group, and The Original Australian Battered Potatoes set a high bar for their commitments by becoming Presenting Partners, Visionary Partners, Distinguished Partners, and Supporting Partners. In addition, NICA’s Leadership created scholarships to honor NICA’s 25th Anniversary, the Regional Councils and the Past Presidents and Directors. Thanks to the fundraising efforts of the East Council to celebrate the retirement of Past President, Art Pokorny Jr., we will add scholarships in his name to the 2022 Named Scholarships. This past month the commitment and generosity of our members to the work of the Foundation continued. NICA Foundation Trustee Don Kenna wrote us, “Joel McWaters, Ron Smith’s nephew, contacted me about doing a fundraiser 20

July 2022 NICA News

Don Kenna, Foundation Trustee, with Joy Kaylor, Boone County Cancer Society, and Concessionaire Joel McWaters

for the Boone County Cancer Society (BCCS). I told him that I was planning a fundraiser with our Funnel Cake stand for the NICA Foundation and he said to me, ‘Why don’t we combine them?’” Joel came up with a plan where they would put four Concession stands in the local park and the Cancer Society would sell $5 tickets for food. Ron Smith, David Johnson and Cecelia and Don Kenna provided the Concession stands. The Boone County Cancer Society agreed that $250 per Concession stand would be donated from their food ticket sales for a total of $1000 donation to NICA Foundation. Don continued that the volunteers from BCCS did their magic by promoting the event and organizing a car show in conjunction with the food show. The Concession Operators donated all the food products and assumed the labor costs to prepare and do the serving. Don observed, “It was a beautiful day in the park.” In unique circumstances when a member faces an unexpected medical care crisis our members have rallied to create a fund in the Foundation to forward the funds directly to the person in need. Most recently, Kristen Lancaster, daughter of Mark and Jennifer Lancaster, Vista Mobility, fell 30 feet and was airlifted to a trauma hospital where she was in ICU until recently. Her injuries include a severe head/brain injury that is still being

evaluated. NICA Members at the San Diego County Fair Golf Tournament Supper raised funds for her care. Prayers and thoughts for her and her family are requested. During the San Diego County Fair NICA/Mark Neagles Golf Tournament gathering at Chicken Charlie’s Table, a coveted Red Lot parking pass was donated by the Fair to be auctioned off for the NICA Foundation Scholarship Program. When it became clear the The Red Lot pass was desired by two different pass bidders, the Fair charitably offered a second one if both would honor the highest bid. NICA Foundation became the grateful recipient of $2000. Please ask your Fair if they would donate a valued Parking Lot pass or RV spot for a NICA or NICA Foundation fundraising gathering. Right now, we are on pins and needles. When each scholarship application arrives, it is assigned a number, and the original application is placed in the safe. Then three sets of redacted applications are copied and sent to the three readers who do not know each other. They will score them based on 100 points and 10 categories that include

We put the

fu n

career goals, community service, Fair learning experiences, and personal story. When they return them to the office, we average the three scores and then rank them. Once the scores are ranked, we take the original applications out of the safe and match the number with the correct name. Based on their score, we assign them to a scholarship award. Watch for the September NICA News announcement of our worthy 2022 Awardees. All of the work of the Foundation is overseen by the Board of Trustees: President Audrey Poole, Vice President Greg Miller, CCE, Secretary Rey O’Day, Treasurer Jennifer Giordano, CCE, and Trustees at Large Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, CCE, Don Kenna, Mark Lancaster, and Larry Sivori. NICA Board 1st Vice President Vincent Nelson, CCE and 2nd Vice President Kim Barr, CCE also serve by virtue of office. Nonprofit Boards are made up of Doers, Donors and/or Door-Openers with a shared commitment to bring life to the mission of the organization. NICA is grateful to have a Board of Trustees with an excellent mix of skills, creativity, experience, vision, and passion. NICA Foundation will continue to honor the past, present the present, and envision the future with your help. ▲

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July 2022 NICA News

Getting to Know Your Regional Council Members This month we spoke with one of the East Council’s newest members, Ryan Hagy, who lives in Melbourne, FL and operates DeAnna’s Steak Sundaes, whose motto states, “Quality Ingredients, Family Recipes, Freshly Prepared—Taste the DeAnna’s Difference!” His responses are below: What is the name of your business and what products do you sell? My parents started DeAnna’s Food 29 years ago and my siblings and I grew up helping with that. I got involved in Fairs managing my own Ice Cream stand when I was 12. After college, I started DeAnna’s Steak Sundaes which I own and operate with the help of my wonderful wife Shawna. Our menu in the Midwest is your typical Fair Food, with Poutine, Funnel Cakes, Deep Fried Oreos, Ribbon Fries, and Fresh Squeezed Lemonade. Our menu switches when we go down South to Fresh Cut Fries, Shrimp N’ Grits, Surf N’ Turf, and Steak Sundaes. What is your annual route? Our route starts with the Florida State Fair in Tampa, we head to the Midwest for the Summer, and finish our Fall in the Carolinas. Our Rocket

Ryan and Shawna Hagy, DeAnna’s Steak Sundaes, with their two kids enjoying some time at an animal exhibit

Ryan Hagy, East Council, with his wife Shawna in their stand

Diner 321 restaurant and Food Truck in Melbourne, FL handles Festivals and Special Events in our home town. Tell us about your family, are they active in the business? My wife Shawna and I were introduced to each other by her cousin (Daniel Becker of Becker Concessions) at the Steele County Fair in Minnesota. We recently celebrated five years of marriage, have two wonderful kids, and lead a Bible Study for young married couples when we are home. Each Fair is unique and has something special to see or do and my kids are loving it. It is always a thrill to see their eyes light up when I take them around the Fair to look at the exhibits and shows. My brother Dustin shares the same Fair route as me with his Gourmet Burger trailer. My sisters Megan and Kristin help me at the Fairs as well as with designing and installing all of our graphics and backlit signs. My siblings and I enjoy coming up with fun and exciting new Fair Foods and have made it a competition. We have had foods featured on The Food Network, Cooking Channel, People Magazine, and Carnival Eats. ►► “Council” continued on page 24 July 2022 NICA News

“Council” continued from page 23 ►► Working together with family all year long on a daily basis gives us many opportunities to say sorry and forgive each other, too. How long have you been a NICA Member? Who recruited you? I became a NICA Member when I finished college and decided to make Food Concessions my career. My membership is set to auto renew so that means one less thing to do each year. My Dad (Jeff Hagy) encouraged me to attend the NICA Show when I told him that I wanted to be a Food Concessionaire full time. I attended my first NICA show and learned so much from the Seminars, Roundtable Discussions, and Business Expo. It was at this time that I became a member of NICA The DeAnna’s Steak Sundae stand on display at the Fair and began using the benefits of Membership to help me save money with products that I was Membership. Show them that we are working already using on a daily basis. together on the Fairgrounds to give the customers the best Fair experience we can. Actions speak What inspired you to be a Council Member? louder than words. Ryan Collmer talked to me this year in Tampa What is your most valuable NICA benefit? at the Florida State Fair about getting younger Concessionaires involved on the Council. I talked it Our Entegra account that gives us special over with my wife and decided that my generation National Pricing for Sysco and additional products needs to begin the process of learning the ins and is a fantastic benefit. I am blown away with the outs from more seasoned Concessionaires before prices on certain products. The savings add up they retire. each week and help keep our costs down. What do you hope your Council accomplishes?

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

I hope that we are able to live out the #TogetherWeCan this season on the Fairgrounds. We can have the habit of viewing new inexperienced Vendors as a threat to our business. In reality, they are trying to support their families just like you and me. Let them borrow a tool or just give them a friendly “Good Morning!” as you walk to your stand. Now they will be a little more interested in hearing about NICA Benefits and

Advertise Your Business in

If we are at the same Fair, stop by my trailer and say hello or if you need any help. With each piece of broken equipment that I repair, my tool collection gets bigger each year. So if I don’t have the tool you are looking for… Does it actually exist? My phone is constantly getting blown up with spam calls so email is the best way to contact me: SteakSundae@yahoo.com. ▲ WHEN PROMOTING YOUR BUSINESS WITH US, YOU... • • •

Reach your targeted audience through national exposure to key decision makers including Concessionaires, Fairs, and more! Gain name recognition via our publications, website, and sponsorships available at Industry events; ask for more details. Receive a superb value through quality marketing opportunities.

We have a variety of sizes to suit your ad—contact us at (813) 438-8926, communications@nicainc.org, or www.nicainc.org/advertising for additional information on sizes, prices, bulk rates, and more!

July 2022 NICA News

With over 70 years of insurance expertise, K&K protects concessionaires and vendors with affordable coverage designed for your needs. And when claims occur, our colleagues are here to respond quickly and effectively. Visit our website to quote and buy online.

EventInsurance-KK.com K&K Insurance Group, Inc. is a licensed insurance producer in all states (FL license #L007299, TX license #13924); operating in CA, NY and MI as K&K Insurance Agency (CA license #0334819)

July 2022 NICA News

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July 2022 NICA News

From the Camera Roll...

Jennifer and Ken Giordano, C&C Concessions, Donna Ruhm, Justin Murray, Willie Madaus, Ryan Long, Mike Newman, who recently incorporated a Pick-Up Station Ryan Needham, Rey O’Day, and Nathan Marcus near closing time at the designed to expedite the delivery of orders San Diego County Fair

NICA Executive Director Rey O’Day found her long time Fairplex Boss, Doug Lofstrom helping out the San Diego County Fair

Concessionaires Angie Humpert and John Dixon offering lemonade shake-ups and corndogs during the NICA Foundation and Boone County Cancer Society fundraiser

Donna Ruhm, retired, San Diego County Fair, joined John Giordano, C&C Concessions, for a tasty Tri-Tip for lunch—Yum!

Chad and Tiffany Dugan, Crutchee’s Ice Cream, NICA Members and Golf Tournament sponsors

George Tom, Crème Puffs, who plays Del Mar and Minnesota State Fair came into help Steve Vartanian, West Council, at his new Rowdy’s stand

Dustine and Troy Stroh, Destroy Productions, enjoying a beautiful day at the Fair

Have you attended a NICA-related event? Send your photos or coverage to communications@nicainc.org July 2022 NICA News

Member Classifieds Classified Ads start at $25 for NICA Members and are emailed out each week in NICA Now! and posted online at www.nicainc.org/classifieds. Contact us at (813) 530-4750 or communications@nicainc.org to learn more.

2022 Oregon State Fair On the Lookout for Unique Fair Food Options The Oregon State Fair is taking applications from Concessionaires that have unique Fair Food options. If interested, please email Ronda at rsherman@oregonstatefair.org for the opportunity to partner with the Oregon State Fair: August 26 - September 5, 2022! ▲

Funnel Cake/Ice Cream Concession Stand For Sale Owner is retiring from Food Concession business and is selling a Concession stand and miscellaneous other support equipment: 2007 Hitchhiker Funnel Cake/Ice Cream stand in good condition, fully equipped with Stoelting Ice Cream Machine: $95,000. Contact Loretta at lorettavomberg@gmail.com. ▲

“Renewals” continued from page 4 ►►

Kenny Smith

Joe Villari

Meggers Road Concessions, dba Hot Wisconsin Cheese Kiel, WI (1993)

Dan Smoots

Ken Vose

Joe Muldoon

Alice Rowlett

R. Joshua Stremmel

Rochelle Waknitz

Ken Nunn µ

Tony Saldutto

Morgan Stremmel, CCE

Midwest Rides / Fun Fair Concessions Elk River, MN (2021)

Holly Swartz

Arkansas State Fair Little Rock, AR (1994)

Crystal Miller

California Ice Cream Company Acampo, CA (2019) Low N Slow Catering LLC Torrington, CT (2018) Pet I.D. Tags Hudson, FL (1993)

Randy Reichert, CCE µ

D & A Silver Dollar Bakery Merryville, LA (1998) Teti Bakery Cleveland, OH (2014)

Jessica Patterson

Robbeloth Concessions Inc Riverview, FL (2019)

Leslie Pence

Carole Sanborn

Runway Fun Park LLC Portland, ME (2020)

Andy Schaefer

Pence’s LLC Bryan, OH (2017)

R.J. Schinner Overland, MO (2011)

Rocken Graphics Gibsonton, FL (2012) Fanestil Meats Emporia, KS (2007) Top Notch Concessions Wichita, KS (2012) Top Notch Concessions Witchita, KS (2013)

Hitch-Hiker Mfg. New Middletown, OH (2011)

Phillip Tomber

RIO Syrup Company, Inc. St. Louis, MO (1997)

Villari Food Group Warsaw, NC (2014) Vose Concessions Springfield, IL (2009)

Tiffany Wilkerson

Rachael Wolfe

Highlands County Fair Association Sebring, FL (2008)

David Yonan

Carl Ratermann

Jimmy Scyoc

Tom Varriale

Space Age Food Concessions Pine Grove, CA (2008)

Tracy Reichert

Michael Searle

Kevin Veitch

Mitch Zinder

Ole Mexican Food St. Louis, MO (2018) Meggers Road Concessions Kiel, WI (1995)

GariMark Foods Lawernceville, GA (2021) Snuffy’s Clowns Phoenix, AZ (2020)

Firestone Financial Needham, MA (2012) Saratoga County Fair Ballston Spa, NY (2006)

Victor Products Co. Richmond, VA (1998)

Thank you to all 73 Renewal Members for your continued support! “Together We Can!”

July 2022 NICA News

2022 Membership Contest Leaderboard* Renewal Members ($2000 Gift of Travel) For a complete list, visit www.nicainc.org/contests

Referrals: General Membership Rod Beach............................................................................. 1 Chris Conkle, CCE................................................................. 1 Russ Harrison, CCE............................................................... 1 Mark Hill, CCE........................................................................ 1 Don Long, CCE....................................................................... 1 Timothy Packer..................................................................... 1 Audrey Poole......................................................................... 1 Dale Smith, CCE.................................................................... 1

Referrals: Regional Councils Ryann Newman..................................................................... 2 Jan Gary................................................................................. 1 Ryan Hagy.............................................................................. 1 Gigi Horowitz......................................................................... 1 Steve Vartanian..................................................................... 1

Referrals: Board of Directors Tom Hodson, CCE................................................................. 8 Jacqueline Bradbury, CCE.................................................... 5 Kathy Ross, CCE.................................................................... 3 Jay Wells, CCE....................................................................... 3 Phil Delahoyde....................................................................... 2 Vincent Nelson, CCE............................................................. 2 Stacey Pittroff-Barona.......................................................... 2 Brandy Arredondo, CCE........................................................ 1 Sandy Class, CCE.................................................................. 1 Dan Lusenhop....................................................................... 1 Daryl Whicheloe, CCE............................................................ 1

Follow NICA on Social Media! Visit www.nicainc.org or search NICA on social media for the latest announcements, news, and pictures. #TogetherWeCan

NICA Now! Proudly ugh o ted thr ib r dist u Foods e Far 1-1601 800-65

Are You Receiving Our Emails? If not, you may be missing out! Sign up for our weekly NICA Now! emails by updating your email online and/or subscribing at www.nicainc.org

*Referral Listing as of 5/31/22. See back cover for more information, rules, and prizes.

July 2022 NICA News

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July 2022 NICA News

Let Gold Medal’s Experience Take Your Business to the Next Level The year was 1931. With just $2,000 and the strong work ethic of founder, David C. Evans, Gold Medal was born. The first product sold with the Gold Medal name was a simple drink concentrate. In the years that followed, the business evolved into a full line of concession equipment and supplies including popcorn, cotton candy, Sno-Kones®, and much more. A lot has happened throughout our history. The third generation of the Evans family now leads the company and the fourth generation is working here as well. From our humble beginnings, we’ve grown to over 500 employees supporting efforts from engineering to manufacturing, marketing to customer service. We’ve been at the forefront of industry innovations, creating new products, continually improving processes and above all, serving the needs of our customers. Put our experience to work for you. Whether you’re new to Gold Medal or a decades-long, loyal customer, we will help you get the most out of your concession business. We’re proud Gold Medal is trusted as the industry’s leading concession equipment manufacturer and supplier, and we are committed to continuing to earn your trust by providing top quality products, service, and support. Together, we will keep making history, now and in the future. You can count on us to deliver snacks, smiles & success!

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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 Associate Membership

Regular Membership q

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

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

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

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

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

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

Business / Group Membership

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

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).

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.

________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________

Food / Beverage

Commercial Exhibitors / Retail / Merchants

payment

Attractions / Entertainment

Cash q

Games

Visa

Guest Services

Credit Card #:

General Routing Information List all states / provinces where you conduct your business.

___________________________________________________________

Check

Mastercard

Security Code:

Money Order q

American Express

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 • July 2022 Issue

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