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Contents • June 2019 Articles & Features

34 2019 Events Calendar

04 This Month’s New & Renewal Members 05 President’s Message 05 Director’s Voice 07 Card’s Corner 07 Member Benefits Spotlight 10 Association Announcements 11 Thoughts from a CCE 13 Former Board Member Brings Fun & Fairgoers Back to the Miami-Dade County Youth Fair 17 The 2019 Pima County Fair Poker & Bingo Tournament 18 The Year in Labor 24 Communication + Education = Solutions 28 Joining Together to Read & Win! 32 Member Classifieds

25 Allied Specialty Insurance 12 Alpha Baking Co. 15 Berk Concession Supply 33 Berry Plastics 29 Con Agra Foods 33 Corfu Foods 12 Fanestil Meats 08 Fare Foods 32 Firestone Financial 31 First Data 27 Heinkel’s Packing Company

AdvertiSers 15 Hummel Group 06 JKJ Workforce 34 K&K Insurance 29 Lamb Weston 32 Lasco Foods 16 Mr. G’s Quality Cut Meats 02 Pepsi 16 Rio Syrup 25 Sugardale Food Service 27 Swanel Beverage 30 Sysco 26 Whirley DrinkWorks

Events & Contests 08 Planning for 2020: Reserve Your Hotel Room Starting in June 29 Don’t Miss Your Chance! 33 Coca-Cola Membership Contest Dedicated to strengthening relationships with the Fair, Festival, and Special Events Industries through effective communication, education, benefits, leadership, and solutions The National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc. is a Florida Corporation with an Editorial and General Office located at 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 • Off ice: (813) 438-8926 • Fax: (813) 803-8460 • Online: www.nicainc.org The information contained in this Publication is based upon sources believed to be reliable. Readers should not act without professional advice. Cover to Cover © 1993-2019 NICA, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Make sure to stay cool in the summer heat! June 2019 NICA News

This Month’s Newest Members! Gary Bailey

Tobias Eiter

Vincent Navarra

Aaron Vandewarker

Eugene Dean

Becky Genoways

Linda Nelson

Rochelle Waknitz

Baileys Concessions Orlando, FL Fiesta Shows Seabrook, NH

Kaitlin Destefano Grab ‘N’ Go, Inc Las Vegas, NV

Giovanni’s Concessions Hayden, ID Memphis in May International Festivals, Inc. Hayden, ID

Walter Keriliuk

Wally’s Concessions Victoria, BC

Vinnie’s Fine Foods Acord, NY Vinnie’s Fine Foods Kingston, NY

Steven Van Horn

Grandma’s Cookies Venice, FL

Mendocino BBQ Catering Nice, CA Midwest Rides / Fun Fair Concessions Elk River, MN

Tyler Wildenberg (Pence) Creamy Rich/Pence’s Bryan, OH

Welcome to our 12 New Members! See page 33 for the 2019 Coca-Cola Membership Contest Leaderboard. “Together We Can!”

This Month’s Member Renewals Richard Allen

Sierra Korn Enterprise Oroville, CA (2013)

Steve Aucoin

Aucoin Concessions Litchfield, ME (2015)

Bruce Beck

Professional Concessions, Inc. West Palm Beach, FL (2013)

Joseph Blume

Stuart Confections, Inc. Stuart, FL (2017)

Griffin Gillette

Polar Bear Homemade Ice Cream Parlor Otego, NY (2009)

John Harrington

Harringtons Greenhouse, Inc. Ellsworth, WI (2012)

Dale Hershberger

Audio Innovators Riverview, FL (2010)

Ronald Hull

Volusia County Fair Andrew “Bruno” Broomfield Association, Inc. Deland, FL (1999) Creamy Rich Bryan, OH (1993)

Kelley Butler

Dickerson & Kenna Concessions Lebanon, IN (1993)

Taylor Collazo

Dustin Kenna

Butler Amusements Roseville, CA (2013) Mason’s Food Service Pinckneyville, IL (2018)

Todd Desgranges

Stuart Confections, Inc. Stuart, FL (2014)

Lisa Dominique

Sippers by Design Miami, FL (2008) Erie County Agricultural Society Hamburg, NY (1999)

Evan Ernsberger

Ernsberger, LLC / MacTastic Norman, OK (2017)

Donald Kenna

June 2019 NICA News

Dickerson & Kenna Concessions Lebanon, IN (2014)

Macey Kenna

Dickerson & Kenna Concessions Lebanon, IN (2017)

David Koons

WindWalker Concessions, Inc. Hennessey, OK (2018)

Jacqueline Leavitt

Golden Wheel Amusements / The Legacy Group, Inc. Chugiak, AK (2015)

Rene Lerma

Mary Shepherd

Lolly Lesher

Larry Smith

Jody Lopez

Phil Teague

Jim McKiernan

Gena Tuttle

Ken McKnight

Jessica Underberg

James Otterbacher

Monica Urick

Marvin Perzee

Matt Wardlow

Andi Price

Dave Westrum

Vonda Riley

Nick White

Craig Sawyer

Larry Wynn

Terri Shell

Clinton Yoder

Ormic Concessions Inc. Brownsville, TX (2017) Way-Har Farm Market, LLC Bernville, PA (2017) Lopez Concessions, LLC Casa Grande, AZ (2016) Grant County Fair Moses Lake, WA (2015) Reno’s Fish & Chips, Inc. Vista, CA (2014) Otterbacher Enterprises Riverview, FL (2016) Iroquois County AG & 4H Fair Ashkum, IL (2001) Red Barn Elephant Ears Rochester, IN (2006) Jimmy’s Concessions, Inc. Creedmoor, NC (2018) J.J. & Sons Phoenix, AZ (2013) T N T Concessions Norwalk, IA (2016)

S & S Concessions Brownsburg, IN (2015) Gold Concessions Riverview, FL (1995) Hummel Group, Inc. Wadsworth, OH (2013) Butler Amusements Roseville, CA (2013) Erie County Fair Hamburg, NY (2014) Urick Concessions, LLC Carmel, IN (2001) Dick Wardlow Insurance Brokers Moorpark, CA (1998) Westrums Quality Foods Delano, MN (2014) White’s Concessions Spokane Valley, WA (2015) East Coast Concessions Summerville, SC (2015) Little Richards Lecanto, FL (2016)

President’s Message Kathy Ross, CCE, President

12 Zone 2 Fairs were represented by 28 people and almost 500 attended from Florida Fairs “If there is any one secret of and Associates. The Trade Show was sold out at 106 Trade Show booths and 160 Associates success, it lies in the ability to get the other person’s point of in attendance. These numbers were gathered before the onsite registration was open. The view and see things from that person’s angle as well as from Giles Ellis Memorial Golf Tournament and YPI Mix & Mingle Haunted Pub Crawl kept everyone your own.” —Henry Ford busy on Wednesday afternoon and night. The This statement is Golf Tournament had over 50 players and the the reason I think every Pub Crawl had over 50 crawlers. Thursday’s Concessionaire should programming focused on Security and Emergency attend State and National Fair Conventions. My husband Jeff and I have been active in the Florida Preparedness; this session was very well attended. The Florida Fair Industry has many Federation of Fairs for over 25 years. I don’t former law enforcement officers now serving remember who told us as new Concessionaires on Fair Boards; in this session they shared their that we needed to get involved, but I would knowledge with their fellow Fairs. Friday’s agenda love to tell them, “Thank You!” It has been a valuable asset to our business. The opportunities was filled with great sessions and a cash give away in the Trade Show. The YPI Committee “took to network and to see things from the Fair Managements angle are endless at these events. over” the GREEN room on Friday night, offering Florida Federation of Fairs and IAFE Zone 2 met in St. Augustine at the World of Golf resort, ►► “Message” continued on page 9 May 15-19. Thirty Florida Fairs were represented,

Director’s Voice

Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, Director

with labor, especially with the H-2B situation, but I want you to know NICA is working tirelessly on the It is that time of year again, issue while looking into possible other solutions when I say goodbye to the to help with our labor struggles. kids, grandkids, dogs, horses, The NICA Sysco Marketplace program has motorcycles, and boats, and made great improvements with some of our seriously head down the road Sysco houses that needed fine tuning and all is with a convoy of trucks, trailers, going well. Thank you to Sysco for working with and supply vehicles. us to improve the services provided to us, the I am always a little anxious concessionaire. If you are currently not using the about starting our long NICA Sysco Marketplace program, I urge you to schedule of Fairs and Events, week after week, look into it for the convenience, time saving, and without stopping, but I also love getting back on money saving opportunities. the road to work and spend time with so many of As well as Sysco, NICA has many great our friends. member benefit companies to save you money. I anticipate 2019 to be a good year. All of If you haven’t checked recently, I encourage you our Spring Events have been successful so far. to check out the magazine and website, or call Although the Fairs struggle with a lack of funding, the NICA Office at (813) 438-8926 to talk with particularly in California, all seem to be managing Michelle, Jesse, or Linda. They would be happy and doing fine. We still have the same struggles to assist in getting you set up with some of the June 2019 NICA News

Officers

President: Kathy Ross, CCE 1st Vice President: Don Delahoyde, CCE 2nd Vice President: Sandy Class Treasurer: Jay “Rocko” Russell Secretary: Vincent Nelson, CCE

Directors

Kim Barr, CCE Andrew “Bruno” Broomfield Carmel Dyer-Pittroff Kevin McGrath, CCE Mike Pence, CCE Daryl Whicheloe, CCE

Immediate Past President Dan Lusenhop

Past Presidents’ Council 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: Michelle Card

michelle@nicainc.org

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

“Voice” continued from page 5 ►► benefits offered to you as a NICA Member. Pepsi is an example of a member benefit that many of us use, but very few of us—myself included—remember to turn our receipts in at the end of the year for our Pepsi rebate. It is my goal this year to do that and I hope you join me. The NICA Office is making it easier to achieve this goal by keeping track of the receipts for you. Whenever you make a purchase, send a picture of your receipt to pepsi@nicainc.org—we can keep a log of your receipts in case your receipts have degraded by the November rebate due date. I wish you all a fun and prosperous summer and hope to see many of you as we travel across this great country, serving the many wonderful people who come to see us and sample the great products we have to offer at the Fairs and Festivals we attend. Remember “Together We Can!” is not just NICA’s slogan, it is all of ours, and because of all of you working so well together we have a great place to go to work every day. Thank you and have safe travels! ▲ 6

June 2019 NICA News

West Council

Executive Manager of Councils & West Council Coordinator : Rey O’Day rey@nicainc.org

Northeast Council, Southeast Council & Social Media Coordinator : Jessica Gottsche jessica@nicainc.org

Northeast Council

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

SOUtheast Council

Jody Conklin Samantha Fairlie Thomas Hodson, CCE Gentry Miller

Jeff Ames Kim Barr, CCE Jan Gary Ryan Long Ryann Newman Erica Quintero Steve Vartanian Jay Wells April Wood

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

Do you have any questions for us? Contact us at (813) 438-8926 or nica@nicainc.org today!

Card’s Corner Michelle Card, Executive Director

Have you always wanted to attend the IAFE and/or WFA Conventions but just haven’t committed to it? Whether it be because of expense, timing or any other reason, NICA is here to help get you there! It is with much excitement that I share a new Scholarship Opportunity to NICA Members! Up to five current NICA Members will receive $500 towards travel expenses to attend the IAFE or WFA Convention. Below is the criteria and obligations required for each Convention. The criteria for NICA is:

• Must be a first time attendee to the Convention. • Must be a current NICA Member (annual dues must be satisfied if due) • Winner of Scholarship must submit proof of registration for desired convention. • Must be available to assist NICA and/or Convention host during the Convention.

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“Announcing a New Opportunity!”

• Must submit an article of Convention experience to NICA News. • Must be currently active in the Outdoor Amusement Industry. • Must be referred by current NICA Member. The criteria for IAFE* is:

• Must be a current IAFE Member at the time of the NICA Scholarship application. The criteria for WFA** is: • Volunteer for WFA at WFA Convention. • Participate in post-Convention interview. Awardees will receive $500 towards travel expenses (transportation and hotel) and basic attendee registration covered by the Organization hosting the Convention selected. We hope that if you have not yet attended that this opportunity will encourage you to do so. Applications for NICA submission will be available on the nicainc.org website in the coming days. “Together We Can Convention!” ▲ *Designated recipients must complete appropriate application with IAFE by October 30th. **WFA deadline is to be determined. 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!

Member Benefits Spotlight One of the most important features of NICA Membership is the cost saving benefits that are offered on many items and services that serve your business. This month we focus on Airgas. Got gas? Don’t run out of it! Airgas is the nation’s leading single-source supplier of gases, welding equipment and supplies, and safety products. As a NICA Member, you receive 25% off (or more) on Airgas CO2 canisters. To sign up, you

must first enroll with Source1 Purchasing by contacting David Koretsky at (901) 881-1107 or david.koretsky@source1purchasing.com; to order, contact Sharon Bayly at sharon.bayly@airgas.com or (877) 717-4540, extension 11260. ▲ June 2019 NICA News

Planning for 2020 Reserve Your Hotel Room Starting in June Audrey Poole, Fare Foods Plans are well underway for the 2020 NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods Food Show. The event will once again be held at the Sheraton Tampa Brandon Hotel in Tampa, Florida. This year’s theme is “2020 Vision: Focus on the Future.” What could be more appropriate? The theme depicts our vision to continue to grow our businesses. As we discussed in last month’s issue, hotel reservations can be made beginning this month. If you do not receive the NICA Now! newsletter or Fare Foods weekly newsletter, please email Audrey Poole at apoole@farefoods.com, and you will be sent the link to make your hotel reservations. Remember, make your reservations early! The hotel will sell out quickly. The special discounted rates are $144 plus tax for standard rooms. If you are interested in upgrading your room, please

contact Audrey Poole for additional details at (618) 542-2155. We are very excited about the 2020 NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods Food Show. Watch the monthly NICA News for updated details on the event and mark your calendars for February 3-5, 2020. You don’t want to miss this event! ▲

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June 2019 NICA News

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Timers” wanting to attend the IAFE or WFA Convention. The Board of Directors felt it was important to assist first time attendees to these many opportunities to play a game or two and events. We are offering five scholarships. Look network. Saturday started with the IAFE Zone 2 for the details in our Executive Director’s article meeting. The Zone is very active and is looking on page 7. We encourage you to join us in a great forward to the IAFE Convention in San Antonio networking opportunity! December 1-4. Jessica Underburg, IAFE Chair, At Saturday night’s Gala I was awarded spoke about her theme “Champions of Change.” the Associate of the Year award by the Florida Marla Calico, IAFE CEO, shared that the hotel Federation of Fairs and Livestock Shows. This rooms are available to reserve as of May 29th. She was a humbling experience; I do not feel that I do also encouraged Fairs to use the IAFE’s available anything above what should be done. I also feel online library, as it offers many necessary you get out of an opportunity what you put into it. documents and signage. Former NICA President I would like to thank those who nominated me and Greg Miller presented Zone 2 with a $1000 the Committee that chose me. Thank you. Scholarship to assist any IAFE Member to attend If there is any one secret to my success, it the San Antonio convention. lies in the friends and family that support me. NICA is offering $500 scholarships to “First “Together We Can!”▲

“Message” continued from page 5 ►►

Eddie Porcelli, III, Northeast Council, addressing a group during NICA’s session at Florida Fed

Rey O’Day, Executive Manager of Councils, hosting her seminar entitled Mind Your P’s and Q’s

IAFE Zone 2 welcome toast in the GREEN Room Hospitality Suite

Kathy Ross, CCE, President, moderating the Promotions that Make a Postive Impact session

The Promotions that Make a Postive Impact audience included many familiar faces including Joe Potillo, Jr., Past President, and Ellany Johnson, Strawberry Festival Dennis Lee and Kathy Ross, CCE, NICA President and Florida Federation of Fairs Associate of the Year

Florida Federation of Fairs Hall of Fame Members—standing: Tom Umiker (2018), Happy Norris (2009), Rick Vymlatil (2003), and Clark Converse (2016); seated: Ellany Johnson (2012), Doris Graska (2014), Dan West (2019), Martha Leverock (2008), and Lisa Hinton (2010)

Greg Miller, Past President, offers his $1000 donation for a Zone 2 Scholarship to the IAFE Convention

Four icons retire: Happy Norris, Lake County Fair, Martha Leverock, Jacksonville Ag Fair, Lisa Hinton, Florida Federation of Fairs, and Rick Vymlatil, South Florida Fair June 2019 NICA News

Association

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

Scholarship Applications are Now Being Graded All qualifying scholarships were in by the June 1st deadline; they are now off to be graded by our dedicated group of anonymous Scholarship Readers. They will be making the hard choices choosing the best candidates for the 2019 NICA Scholarship Program and will be submitting their final decisions to the NICA Office in July. Each Applicant will be contacted with his or her status when the results are in. This year’s winners will be announced in the August issue of NICA News. Good luck to all our Applicants and thank you to our Readers! ▲

Do You Use Pepsi? Send NICA Your Receipts! This year we are continuing our protocol when it comes to tracking your Pepsi purchases so the NICA Members who utilize the Pepsi pricing and rebate program can make sure they get their full rebate. Whenever you make a purchase, send a picture of your receipt/ticket/invoice to pepsi@nicainc.org—we will assist you in case your receipts have degraded by the November due date. For more details, visit www.nicainc.org/pepsi. ▲

Director Nominations are in—Ballots going out in July Congratulations to our Director Nominees for being nominated to be on the NICA Board of Directors. See the following issue for a first look at our 2019 Director Nominee lineup, as well as their individual backgrounds. We will be sending out ballots on July 15th to Voting Members; if you have a change or know that you will not be at your listed address during that period, contact us at (813) 438-8926. ▲

Florida Federation of Fairs Announces New Executive Director The Florida Federation of Fairs and Livestock Shows has announced Daniel West of Palmetto, Florida as its new Executive Director. An extensive search for a replacement for the retiring Lisa Hinton began in March of 2019. West is currently the Manager of the Manatee County Fair, a position he began in 2003. West graduated from University of Florida in 1993 with a degree in Agronomy and Agriculture Extension Education. A graduate of Palmetto High School, West returned as the Agriculture teacher in 1994 where he was awarded “Teacher of Year” and Palmetto Elks “Teacher of the Year”, both in 1999. In 2003, West was named Manager of the Manatee County Fair, the same year he was named Palmetto High School Citizen of the Year. West has served as a Director of the Manatee County Farm Bureau since 1998 and on the Florida Farm Bureau Federation State Board since 2014. In 2005, West became a member of the Board of Directors of the Florida Federation of Fairs and served as its President in 2012. West was recently inducted into the Florida Federation of Fairs Hall of Fame for 2019. ▲ 10

June 2019 NICA News

Thoughts from a This month’s Statement of Communications and Management Philosophy is from 2006 inductee Randy Reichert, CCE, Past Director and owner of Meggars Road Concessions dba Hot Wisconsin Cheese Throughout my journey of being a professional Concessionaire, I’ve been blessed with mentors who have helped me reach various levels of success. To them I’ll be forever grateful. My Management Philosophy is sprinkled with wisdom from these various mentors. My Philosophy centers around three principles: Discipline, Innovation, and Continuous Growth.

Discipline As with any business there are certain things that must be done on a daily, weekly, and yearly basis. Tending to these tasks whether daily (stocking the trailer, leaving a spotless trailer at the end of the night, preparing products to be sold); weekly (ordering stock, scheduling workers, preparing for the next jump); or yearly (tax preparation, equipment maintenance, or completing contracts for upcoming events) must be fully completed. Without this foundation and attention to these tasks, innovation and continuous growth will be limited. This also applies with employees. Each employee must learn the basics of their job to be more successful in the future.

Innovation The business climate changes—that’s a fact of life. To successfully meet the challenges of change is where innovation takes hold. The question must continually be asked, “What can be done to improve the business?” Designer cups, computer usage, or air-ride hitches are just a few examples of innovations made to help improve the concession business. It can be difficult and scary to be innovative because it is easier to be set in our successful ways. But by ignoring the changing business environment, the business can pass us by.

Continuous Growth Continuous Growth refers to the professional growth of individuals and businesses. Education, business conferences, or interaction with various areas of the Fair Industry are just some avenues that can be utilized to achieve professional growth. Continuous Growth also applies to our professional peers. It is important to share knowledge and ideas with others in our field. By communicating with others in the Fair Industry, it helps the Fair Industry as a whole become more successful. Continuous Growth also applies to employees. The ultimate goal for my employees is to allow them to grow to a level where they are self-managed. In other words—they kick me out of the trailer because they can do the job. Discipline, Innovation, and Continuous Growth are the principles of my Management Philosophy. Individually, each principle has its own qualities and virtues, but combining the three together provides me with guidelines for successful decision-making today and in the future. ▲ The CCE program was developed to recognize the professionalism of Concessionaires. The title of CCE represents a deep understanding and respect for the Fair and Festival business and indicates that the titleholder will perform with the highest level of professionalism. This prestigious designation is awarded only after a detailed application process has been successfully met. If you are interested, visit www.nicainc.org/CCE for more information on requirements and instructions on how to apply. June 2019 NICA News

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June 2019 NICA News

Former Board Member Brings Fun & Fairgoers

Back to the Miami-Dade County Youth Fair Timothy Herrick, CarnivalWarehouse.com Promoting from within may not be uncommon, even for one of the highest-profile Fairs in the nation, but what is unusual for the Miami-Dade County Youth Fair is that instead of a staff member, they went to the Board. Eduardo (Eddie) Cora was named President of Miami Eddie Cora, President, MiamiDade County Fair & Exposition, Dade County Fair & Inc., after more than 18 years as Exposition, Inc. a Board Member. Cora, who first moved to the area in 1979 with his parents, brother and sister, is a regional construction contractor; he said that his recruitment for the position came as a surprise, but the realization was that the organization was committed to rededicating itself to the Youth Fair mission: promoting agriculture, youth education and youth achievement. What did this mean in terms of finding the ideal candidate to lead one of the highest profile Fairs in the Southeast? Whether finding an experienced Fair professional from outside the area Fair business and teach them about both the community and the uniqueness of the Miami-Dade County Youth Fair, or find somebody from the community who is well acquainted and connected to Miami-Dade County but would have to be taught the Fair business. Hiring From Within With nearly two decades experience as a Board Member of a Fair that is consistently on Carnival Warehouse’s list of top 50 Fairs (in 2018, the Miami-Dade County Youth Fair ranked #36 and was the highest attended Florida Fair), Cora was chosen as the right man for the right job. “I understand the organization, and as a contractor throughout the South Florida area,” he said. “I am also an operations guy and a numbers guy who loves dealing with details. It was important to the Board to be working with someone who understands your operations.” As Chairman of the Board, Cora spearheaded

a 10-year master plan and research study which outlined future objectives for the Fair. “We wanted to find out who we are, identify our demographics and give us longer regional understanding. We wanted to continue our mission without changing course and the Board wanted someone who was already up to speed. We wanted to be ahead of the curve and not behind the curve.” Some of the changes that he implemented to the Fair—the major annual community event to what is tantamount to the largest county in Florida, a population of 2.9 million—was improving the ingress and egress points to the Fair, which meant working with the nearby university to improve transportation access to the Fairgrounds and overall pedestrian flow. Cora’s study also analyzed various transaction points, specially parking, to streamline the entire process. “We looked at what were the most cumbersome parts of going to the Fair, and focused on getting people parked and into the Fair so they spend more time enjoying the Fair, instead of preparing to enjoy the Fair. We found this year people were staying longer.” Ideal Weather, Better Economy The 21-day event benefited from an ideal weather streak, with rain marring only one day and two events.In addition, the local economy finally saw an upswing this year, further enhancing the upbeat year for the Fair. “Miami-Dade County was one of the hardest-hit areas in Florida from the recession and one of the slowest to turn around,” said Cora. “But the economy has turned around especially in the housing market, tourism

►► “Miami” continued on page 14 June 2019 NICA News

“Miami” continued from page 13 ►► and agriculture markets. Unemployment is very low. We definitely benefited from the increase in disposable income.” He added that food per-cap spending was up 2% and ride per-cap was up 3%. Cora emphasized that the Fair also promoted the value of the Fair, adding discount promotions for non-weekend days. In addition, Zanos, a local supermarket chain that sells tickets to the Fair, both implemented a pre-Fair discount and expanded the accessibility of sales outlets within the store. “They added additional Points-of-Sales for the tickets.” The Fair’s midway provider North American Midway Entertainment (NAME), which featured 98 rides, also got into the discount promotion act. “When you deal with good partners like NAME, they come up with ideas,” said Cora. “They did a very successful $3 discount day with an unlimited ride ticket for that day. For student field trips, they convinced us to open up an unlimited ride field trip ticket, so the students didn’t have to worry about standing in a line. More than 40,000 students came from local schools to the Fair.”

More Edible Marketing

The 2019 marketing strategy also served up a new focus: Fair cuisine. “We had several new foods and we wanted to communicate that to our guests,” said Hernandez. “One of the reasons why our guests enjoy coming to the Youth Fair is to enjoy the food so that’s why we put a lot of BE THERE! THE Fair emphasis in promoting the food. We had several new foods which were all very popular among our The Miami-Dade County Youth Fair saw an Guests. All the new foods were very popular among increase of 21% over 2018, but Cora is quick our Guests as well as the traditional Fair foods.” to point that huge leap in Fairgoer numbers is Among the new food items enjoyed by youth of misleading. Last year, the opening day of the all ages at the Youth Fair included the following: Fair was hit by tragedy. A 174-foot-long section Brazilian Cheesecake Funnel Cake, The Impossible of a Florida International University bridge that Burger, Fluffy’s Donut Sundae, Dilly Dilly Corn Dog, was under construction collapsed, killing six Dee’s Ice Cream Waffle, Twisted Spicy Corn, Oreo people and injuring eight. The bridge was over Crepes, Bacon Wrapped Pork, Twist Churros with a six lane highway, cutting off a major artery to Guava and Cheese and Spicy Tilapia Filets. the Fairgrounds for the Fair, severely impeding A restoration of attendance, a new marketing accessibility of the Fair. Between hours being added to most Fairgoers’ plan and an improved Fairground layout are not terrible accomplishments for a former Board commute to the Fair, the fatalities affected the Member’s first time in the Captain’s chair. More usual enthusiasm for the annual event. “It was harder to get to the Fair and the mood was pretty importantly, the 2019 Miami-Dade County Youth Fair is further along its Master Plan objectives. For somber,” he said. “There’s nothing you can do Cora though, the goals he reached his freshman when a tragedy like we had last year happens.” year were more pragmatic. “My goal after a very To help turn the tide, they took the value somber Fair last year with the unfortunate deaths approach with the theme, “BE THERE! THE Fair.” was how we can we get people back to have fun, “The theme for the 2019 Fair was value, to smile again.Our reviews on social media were promoting affordable ways for a family to attend very positive. I feel we have set a foundation for and enjoy their community tradition,” said the future. In that way, this year exceeded our Claudia Hernandez, Director of Marketing and expectations.” ▲ Entertainment. 14

June 2019 NICA News

focused on

CONCESSIONAIRES Phil Teague, CIC

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The 2019 Pima County Fair Poker & Bingo Tournament Rey O’Day, Executive Manager of Councils

The Pima County Fair Poker and Bingo Tournament is now in its fifth year, just having added bingo in 2018. This year, over 80 people gathered at the Pima County Fair’s Cantina to enjoy poker, bingo, pizza, beer, snacks and cookies to raise funds for NICA programming and scholarships and enjoy good, old-fashioned fellowship. The Pima County Fair 2020 RV Space winner was Nathalie Bastien with We Got Your Flag. Poker winners were Gina Lockaby, Jackson Enterprises, with 3rd Place, Jess To To, Yosemite Sign Company, with 2nd Place, and Mike Coffee, Timbo’s, with 1st Place. Congratulations! A big “Thank You!” goes to:

Jay Wells, NICA Event Co-Chair, Jess To To, 2nd Place Poker Winner, Mike Coffee, 1st Place Poker Winner, Jan Gary, NICA Event Co-Chair, Gina Lockaby, 3rd Place Poker Winner, and Kim Barr, CCE, NICA Event Co-Chair

• The NICA Team of Jay Wells, Wells • Bingo Sponsors Nathan Marcus, West Coast Concessions and Event Co-Chair, Kim Barr, Weinies, Andy Chan, Chan’s Chicken on a Stick, CCE, Event Co-Chair, Alan Barr and Mat Wells, Mike and Sandy Bliss, Sleek Greek, and Kelly Pacific Crest Concession, Jan Gary, Dippin’ Bishop, Bishop Concessions. Dots and Event Registrar, Morgan Stremmel, • Poker Table Sponsors Mike Coffee, Timbo’s, Top Notch Concessions, and Stacy Doane, Nate and Stephanie Janousek, Fun Biz Pony Espresso. Concessions, Debbie and Jerry Phillips, • Gerry Damon for his special donation. ▲ Action Foods, and Paul Farnum and Jennifer Simpson, Suck It Up Concessions. • Food and Prize Sponsors Pima County Fair (2020 RV Space), Yosemite Sign Company, Tucson Pepsi Cola, Promac Treasure Hunting, Wells Concession, Ryan Hat Company, Ann Perry, The Cooler Guy, Crystal Brede, Pacific Crest Concessions, Top Notch Concessions, Alan Barr looking good in RCS, and Odyssey Foods.

Bingo players squealing, raffle players checking out prizes, and earnest poker players in the back

Theresa Mahan fanning herself with her winnings

that hat he won from Justin Murray, O’Ryan Hat Co.

Zach Sawyer, third generation of JJ & Sons Concessions, won too!

Leighann Fontenot, Suck It Up Concessions, enjoying her Bingo prize: a nail kit June 2019 NICA News

The Year in Labor Minimum Wages Rise Nationwide Adapted from a resource by National Conference of State Legislatures The call for an increase in minimum wage has been a hot topic for many years, with many labor groups, private citizens, and others demanding a raise to at least $15 to coincide with inflation and other costs of living. The current federal minimum wage is $7.25, having been increased last in 2009. From state-to-state it varies, with some increasing their minimum wage above the federal level, while others equal it or have none on record. Eighteen states began the new year with higher minimum wages. Eight states (Alaska, Florida, Minnesota, Montana, New Jersey, Ohio, South Dakota and Vermont) automatically increased their rates based on the cost of living,

while 10 states (Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Maine, Massacusetts, Missouri, New York, Rhode Island and Washington) increased their rates due to previously approved legislation or ballot initiatives. Other states that will see rate increases during the 2019 calendar year include D.C., Delaware, Michigan and Oregon. New Jersey enacted a measure (AB 15) which will gradually increase the minimum wage rate to $15 by 2024. Illinois enacted a measure (SB 1) which will phase in a minimum wage increase to $15 by 2025. Maryland overrode a gubernatorial veto to enact a measure (SB 280) that phased-in a minimum wage increase to $15 by 2024. New Mexico enacted SB 437, which will raise the state minimum wage to $12 by 2023. The following table summarizes current state minimum wages in effect as of 2019 and future enacted increases:

STATE MINIMUM WAGE LEGISLATION State

Minimum Wage

Future Enacted Increases

Indexed Automatic Annual Adjustments

Alabama

None

N/A

Alaska

$9.89

N/A

Indexed annual increases began in 2017. (2014 ballot measure)

Arizona

$11.00

$12.00 eff. 1-1-20

Rate increased annually based on cost of living beginning Jan. 2021 (2016 ballot measure)

Arkansas

$9.25

$10 eff. 1-1-20 $11 eff. 1-1-21

N/A

California 1

$12.00

$13.00 eff. 1-1-20 $14.00 eff. 1-1-21 $15.00 eff. 1-1-22

Indexed annual increases based on CPI begin Jan. 1, 2023

The minimum wage scheduled increases are delayed by one year for employers with 25 or fewer employees. The rate increases to $10.50 per hour effective 1/1/2018 and is increased by $1.00 increments annually until it reaches $15.00 effective 1/1/2023.

June 2019 NICA News

State

Minimum Wage

Future Enacted Increases

Indexed Automatic Annual Adjustments

Colorado

$11.10

$12.00 eff. 1-1-20

Rate increased annually based on cost of living beginning Jan. 1 2021 (2016 ballot measure)

Connecticut 2

$10.10

N/A

Delaware

$8.75

$9.25 eff. 10-1-19

N/A

D.C.

$13.25

$14.00 eff. 7-1-19 $15.00 eff. 7-1-20

Indexed annual increases based on CPI begin July 1, 2021

Florida

$8.46

N/A

Annual increase based cost of living. (Constitutional amendment 2004)

Georgia

$5.15

N/A

Hawaii

$10.10

N/A

Idaho

$7.25

N/A

Illinois 3

$8.25

$9.25 eff. 1-1-20 $10.00 eff. 7-1-20 $11.00 eff. 1-1-21 $12.00 eff. 1-1-22 $13.00 eff. 1-1-23 $14.00 eff. 1-1-24 $15.00 eff. 1-1-25

N/A

Indiana

$7.25

N/A

Iowa

$7.25

N/A

Kansas

$7.25

N/A

Kentucky

$7.25

N/A

The Connecticut minimum wage rate automatically increases to 1/2 of 1 percent above the rate set in the Fair Labor Standards Act if the Federal minimum wage rate equals or becomes higher than the State minimum.

Employers with 50 or fewer full time employees are eligible for a tax credit equal to a certain percentage of the cost of their annual wage increases. Employers are only eligible for the credit if the average wage for employees making $55,000 or less increases over the year. The amount of the credit that can be claimed is as follows: 25% for the 2020 reporting period; 21% for 2021; 17% for 2022; 13% for 2023; 9% for 2024; 5% for 2025; 5% for 2026; 5% for 2027, but only for employers with no more than five employees.

►► “Labor” continued on page 20 June 2019 NICA News

“Labor” continued from page 19 ►►

State

Minimum Wage

Future Enacted Increases

Indexed Automatic Annual Adjustments

Louisiana

None

N/A

Maine 4

$11.00

$12.00 eff. 1-1-20

Indexed annual increases based on CPI begin Jan 1, 2021

Maryland

$10.10

N/A

$11.00

$12.75 eff. 1-1-20 $13.50 eff. 1-1-21 $14.25 eff. 1-1-22 $15.00 eff. 1-1-23

N/A

Michigan

$9.45

$9.65 eff. 2020 $9.87 eff. 2021 $10.10 eff. 2022 $10.33 eff. 2023 $10.56 eff. 2024 $10.80 eff. 2025 $11.04 eff. 2026 $11.29 eff. 2027 $11.54 eff. 2028 $11.79 eff. 2029 $12.05 eff. 2030

N/A

Minnesota 6

$9.86 / $8.04

N/A

Indexed annual increases begin Jan. 1, 2018. (2014 legislation)

Mississippi

None

N/A

$8.60

$9.45 eff. 1-1-20 $10.30 eff. 1-1-21 $11.15 eff. 1-1-22 $12 eff. 1-1-23

Minimum wage increased or decreased by cost of living starting Jan. 1, 2024. (2018 ballot measure)

Massachusetts 5

Missouri 7

The Maine minimum wage is automatically replaced with the Federal minimum wage rate if it is higher than the State minimum.

The Massachusetts minimum wage rate automatically increases to 10 cents above the rate set in the Fair Labor Standards Act if the Federal minimum wage equals or becomes higher than the State minimum.

With the passage of H.B. 2091 (2014), the annual sales volume threshold was reduced to $500,000. For large employers, with an annual sales volume of $500,000 or more, the minimum wage is currently $9.50; for small employers, those with an annual sales volume of less than $500,000, the minimum wage is $7.75.

In addition to the exemption for federally covered employment, the law exempts, among others, employees of a retail or service business with gross annual sales or business done of less than $500,000.

The $4.00 rate applies to businesses with gross annual sales of $110,000 or less; $8.15 applies to all others.

June 2019 NICA News

State

Minimum Wage

Future Enacted Increases

Indexed Automatic Annual Adjustments

Montana 8

$8.50 / $4.00

N/A

Increases done annually based on the CPI and effective Jan. 1 of the following year. (2006 ballot measure)

Nebraska

$9.00

N/A

Nevada 9

$8.25 / $7.25

N/A

Increases subject to the federal minimum wage and consumer price index. Increases take effect July 1. (Constitutional amendment 2004/2006).

New Hampshire

None; repealed by HB 133 (2011)

N/A

$8.85

$10 eff. 7-1-19 $11 eff. 1-1-20 $12 eff. 1-1-21 $13 eff. 1-1-22 $14 eff. 1-1-23 $15 eff. 1-1-24

Indexed annual increases based on the CPI, effective Jan. 1, 2014. (Constitutional Amendment 2013)

$7.50

N/A

New York 11

$11.10

$11.80 eff. 12-31-19 $12.50 eff. 12-31-20 After 12-31-20, the rate is adjusted annually until it reaches $15.00

N/A

North Carolina

$7.25

N/A

North Dakota

$7.25

N/A

New Jersey

New Mexico

$8.25 without health benefits; $7.25 with health benefits.

For small employers (six employees or fewer), the schedule of increases is as follows: $10.30 eff. 1-1-20; $11.10 eff. 1-1-21; $11.90 eff. 1-1-22; $12.70 eff. 1-1-23; $13.50 eff. 1-1-24; $14.30 eff. 1-1-25; $15.00 eff 1-1-26.benefits.

The new minimum wage varies across the state based on geographical location and, in New York City, employer size. NYC Large Employers: $15; NYC Small Employers: $13.50 ($15 by 12/31/2019); NY Downstate: $12 ($15 by 12/31/2021). 11

►► “Labor” concluded on pages 22 & 23 June 2019 NICA News

“Labor” continued from page 21 ►► Future Enacted Increases

Indexed Automatic Annual Adjustments

$8.55 / $7.25

N/A

Indexed annual increases based on the CPI. (Constitutional amendment 2006)

$7.25 / $2.00

N/A

Oregon 14

$10.75

$11.25 eff. 7-1-19 $12.00 eff. 7-1-20 $12.75 eff. 7-1-21 $13.50 eff. 7-1-22

Indexed annual increases based on the CPI are effective July 1, 2023 (2016 legislation)

Pennsylvania

$7.25

N/A

Rhode Island

$10.50

$10.50 eff. 1-1-19

N/A

South Carolina

None

N/A

State

Ohio

Oklahoma 13

Minimum Wage

South Dakota

$9.10

N/A

Annual indexed increases begin Jan. 1, 2016. (2014 ballot measure.)

Tennessee

None

N/A

Texas

$7.25

N/A

Utah

$7.25

N/A

Vermont

$10.78

N/A

Beginning Jan. 1, 2019, minimum wage increased annually by 5% or the CPI, whichever is smaller; it cannot decrease. (2014 legislation)

Virginia

$7.25

N/A

$7.25 for employers grossing $299,000 or less.

Employers of ten or more full time employees at any one location and employers with annual gross sales over $100,000 irrespective of number of full time employees are subject to federal minimum wage; all others are subject to state minimum wage of $2.00.

In addition to the new standard minimum wage rate, SB 1532 sets out a higher rate for employers located in the urban growth boundary, and a lower rate for employers located in nonurban counties. Portland Metro: $12.50; Nonurban: $11.00 (as of 7/1/2019).

June 2019 NICA News

State

Minimum Wage

Future Enacted Increases

Indexed Automatic Annual Adjustments

Washington

$12.00

$13.50 eff. 1-1-2020

Annual indexed increases began Jan. 1, 2020. (ballot measure 2016)

West Virginia

$8.75

N/A

Wisconsin

$7.25

N/A

Wyoming

$5.15

N/A

The information contained in the table above is presented with the latest data made available by the Department of Labor. If and when the Federal Minimum Wage changes in upcoming months and/ or years, all states may adjust their base minimum wage, as well as any scheduled increases. We will make every effort to update you via NICA News if that does happen. â–˛

State of the H-2B Visa Program

for returning workers (workers who received an H-2B visa or otherwise received granted H-2B Adapted from resources by US Citizenship & status in one of the last three fiscal years). Only American businesses that are likely to Immigration Service (USCIS) experience irreparable harm (permanent and severe financial loss) without the ability to employ On December 6, 2018, the number of all of the H-2B workers that they request on their beneficiaries USCIS had received petitions Form I-129 petition for this fiscal year may file for surpassed the total number of H-2B visas under this temporary increase in the H-2B cap. available for the H-2B cap for the first half of In addition, employers may only request H-2B FY 2019. On February 19, 2019, the number of returning workers (in other words, workers who beneficiaries surpassed the total number of have been issued an H-2B visa or otherwise remaining H-2B visas available for the H-2B granted H-2B status) in one of the last three fiscal cap for the second half. In accordance with years (FY 2016, 2017, or 2018). regulations, USCIS determined it was necessary USCIS will stop accepting petitions under this to use a computer-generated process, commonly increase on September 16, 2019, or when the cap known as a lottery, to ensure the fair and orderly is reached, whichever occurs first. USCIS will also allocation of H-2B visa numbers to meet, but reject any petitions received after September 16 not exceed, the remainder of the FY 2019 cap. or after the cap is reached, whichever is earlier. On February 21, USCIS conducted a lottery to USCIS will deny all petitions not approved before randomly select petitions from those received October 1, 2019, and will not refund any fees. on February 19. As a result, USCIS assigned all USCIS will consider petitions requesting an petitions selected the receipt date of February 22. On May 8, 2019, the Department of Homeland employment start date on or after October 1, 2019, Security (DHS) and the Department of Labor (DOL) towards the FY 2020 H-2B cap. These petitions will be subject to all eligibility requirements for FY published a temporary final rule increasing the cap on H-2B nonimmigrant visas by up to 30,000 2020 H-2B cap filings. We will keep you updated of the ongoing additional visas (for a total of 96,000) through the developments in the H-2B program in upcoming end of FY 2019. These visas are available only to issues of NICA News and in NICA Now! To be American businesses which attest that they will added to our H-2B newsletter email list for more likely suffer irreparable harm without the ability to employ all the H-2B workers requested in their up-to-date news, see the latest NICA Now! for a petition. In addition, these visas are available only link or visit http://eepurl.com/dyt0Nj. â–˛ June 2019 NICA News

Communication + Education = Solutions Gentry Miller, Southeast Council

Management in personal conversations. Even then, this is still one of the largest concerns for Concessionaires. “NICA is dedicated to Being a Concession or Fair Manager isn’t strengthening relationships easy. Most people don’t dream of growing up to with the Fair, Festival, be a Manager. There are very few college degrees and Special Events that can benefit someone in this field, and of the Industries through effective folks who go into those degrees, very few will end communication, education, up on our Fairgrounds. It seems the problem is benefits, leadership and simple—a lack of education in the proper field. solutions.” Fortunately, there is one place you can go to As I travel the country and talk with Concessionaires about NICA and what learn to be a Fair Manager. The IAFE offers the issues are most dear to them, I consistently hear Institute of Fair Management. The Institute covers the same group of issues. These issues include a variety of topics including safety, competitive duplication of products, policing of contracts, exhibits, agriculture, carnivals, and even food and various other items we Concessionaires and beverage. We are fortunate enough to have consider the basics. This isn’t a new trend. NICA the food portion taught by our very own Rey was founded 25 years ago with these topics O’Day, Executive Manager of Councils. Rey leads as its focal point. However, despite years of a practical and information packed course that effort, and becoming one of the most respected educates Managers about what to look for in a organizations in the Fair Industry today, we quality Food Concession Operation. The Institute haven’t completely resolved our initial issues. of Fair Management has been a rousing success Sure, a lot of our larger Fairs understand this and and below I have highlighted a few ways that NICA have adopted various policies to enforce them, but can expand upon it. a great many Fairs, especially smaller ones, have 1. Send a delegation through the Institute of not. Fair Management to find ways to enhance the We’ve all seen it happen. A new Concession criteria and do a feasibility study into our own Manager is hired, often times with little or no coursework. background in the actual Concession Industry, 2. Create our own coursework with some form and they come in with an agenda of their own, of certification that focuses specifically on usually even believing they are improving their common issues a Concession Manager may Fair. They have some space open up and bring in encounter. the very first application they received, another cotton candy stand, because they have to fill the 3. Create a handbook or other literature available space. This upsets the five cotton candy Vendors for reference to solve common problems a who have been there for years, and those Vendors Fair may run into relating directly to Food add a new product such as corn dogs to offset Concessions. their losses, and this sparks a chain reaction Finding new ways to communicate our for obvious reasons. We as Concessionaires principles more often and more efficiently is a know this, and so do most of our seasoned personal goal of mine, and something I intend to Concession and Fair Managers. Yet, 25 years after continue passionately working for in the years to NICA was founded it is still happening! We, as come. The best tool we have at NICA though is an organization, have done a lot to combat this you. If you have made it to the end of this article problem, and have had a great amount of success. then you have what it takes to fix the issues facing We have created Communication Committees, us as an Industry. If you are a Concessionaire we’ve discussed it at round tables, we’ve had ask your Fairs to create Communication our Executive Director and Board Members Committees. If you are a Fair Manager then talk about it as they travel to Fairs, and we as give your Concessionaires an opportunity for Concessionaires have brought it up with our Fair Communication Committees. If your Fairs already

June 2019 NICA News

have Communication Committees then be active on those Committees. Bring up the things that need to be improved, and take time to point out the things your Fairs are doing right. Go to your State Association and Zone Meetings. Take a trip to the IAFE, WFA, or NICA Conventions. Be present, attentive, and most of all active. We have a great amount of issues facing our Industry, and we are the only ones that can fix them. ▲

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June 2019 NICA News

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June 2019 NICA News

Joining Together to Read & Win!

There has and continues to be a positive response as each year the program continues to grow in number of participants. This is a The Read and Win ribbon program, a cooperative effort of the International Association great sign that we are promoting and encouraging has a positive of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) and NICA, is message and continual engagement designed to encourage Fairs to work with with reading, education, fun, and their local schools and/or libraries, as well the experience that can continue as Concessionaires, Exhibitors, and Mobile to and with the Fair! Learning truly Amusement providers to encourage children to never stops! We have had library read books. groups come out to spend a ‘Day at The program benefits local elementarythe Fair’ for certain hours from this school children by encouraging them to read partnership as well. The response library books. For reading the books, students has been amazing chance to in grades one through eight are rewarded with continue to make an impact on so both a ribbon bookmark provided by the IAFE many.” and NICA, and vouchers for complimentary Fair “We love it here because it gets admission, Midway rides, a soft drink, and/or kid’s reading during the summer. similar items provided by participating Fairs, Libraries like it because it gets kids Midways, and/or Concessionaires. into the libraries during the summer.” “We value the relationship we have with “We love this program and have seen it NICA and their support of the Read and Win grow year to year. Thank you so much for your program. While employed at a Fair, I utilized this program as an educational tool, educating young support.” “Thank you for the ribbons!” people about agriculture and it provided us a “Really appreciate that these are offered.” mechanism for community outreach,” said Lori “We feel this is a very worthwhile program. Hart, CFE, IAFE Director of Education and Member Education, learning and reading are high on our Services. “We’ve had tremendous feedback from list of priorities.” participating Fairs.” We survey all participating “Teachers were very excited to participate.” fairs and received the following: “This was my 7th year of being involved “The Read and Win program has and continues with Read and Win and the kids still love it. The to be an incredible partnership revered each summer by not only the youth, but the families as libraries still want to partner with us for their summer readers. I have heard several positive a whole! This opportunity allows us to continue comments about what a great package the kids to give back, showcase that education and fun get when they come to the Fair.” can be tied together and that our Industry values The IAFE launched a new ribbon during the not only the community, but the continuation to 2017 IAFE Annual Convention. Member Fairs may promote reading and developing the generations order their Read and Win ribbons online at of the future! Encouraging reading and learning is something that is critical link this day and age. www.fairsandexpos.com. ▲

Lori Hart, CFE, Director of Education & Member Services, IAFE

June 2019 NICA News

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June 2019 NICA News

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PACK/SIZE 36 / 4.5 OZ 40 / 4 OZ 2 / 5 LB 6 / 10 CT 120 / 1 OZ 2 / 5 LB 2 / 5 LB 2 / 5 LB 2 / 5 LB 6 / 5 LB 1 / 25 LB 6 / #10 6 / 5 LB 6 / 5 LB 6 / 5 LB 12 / 6 CT 6 / #10 1 / 30 LB

BRAND SYS CLS SYS CLS SYS CLS JOY MARZETI BBRLIMP NATHANS BBRLIMP BBRLCLS KRSTEAZ KRSTEAZ SYS CLS SYS IMP SYS IMP SYS IMP BBRLCLS SYS REL SYS CLS

DESCRIPTION CHICKEN BRST FIL GRL CKD CHICKEN BRST IFZ FLAT MARN ZIP CHICKEN NUG DINO PCK CONE WFFL BOWL 87060 DRESSING RANCH CUP FRANK ALL-BEEF 4X1 6 IN FRANK ALL-BEEF 4X1 8 FZ FRANK ALL-BEEF 6X1 6 FRANK ALL-MEAT 4X1 6 IN MIX CAKE FUNNEL COMPLT MIX CORNBREAD HMSTY COMPLT PEPPER GREEN & RED STRIP FCY POTATO FRY SKON 5/16 PHANTM PL POTATO FRY SKON 5/16 PHANTM PL POTATO FRY SKON COIL 1/4 ROLL SUB SLI 6 SAUCE CHEESE AGED CHED ZTF TURKEY DRUMSTICK SMOKED

For more information, contact your Sysco Marketing Associate or visit www.sysco.com

Are you ready for a rush in credit card sales?

As a valued member of NICA, you can get great savings on credit card processing. NICA and First Data® have teamed up to make doing business easier by letting you securely and reliably accept more payment types and appeal to more customers credit, check, cash, debit, gift cards, mobile pay, and more. With a First Data payment processing account, you get: • Low Preferred Rates – As a NICA member, First Data helps you keep more of each transaction with no early termination fees.

• Reduced Equipment Pricing – As a NICA member, you receive reduced pricing on the Clover Business Solutions.

• 24/7 Customer Service – Your business never stops, so neither does our support. • Security and Reliability – Help your business be EMV® and PCI compliant with industryleading security.

• Trusted Global Payments Leader – We help businesses around the world with simple solutions that drive success.

Get ready for the rush & save today! Call Tina Hollis, Senior Commercial Business Consultant at 239.287.8221 or tina.hollis@firstdata.com

Clover Station

Clover Mobile

Clover Mini

Clover Flex

Clover Go

© 2017 First Data Corporation. All Rights Reserved. The FIRST DATA and CLOVER names, logos and related trademarks and service marks are owned by First Data Corporation and are registered or used in the U.S. and many foreign countries. EMV® is a registered trademark or trademark of EMVCo, LLC in the United States and other countries. www.emvco.com. All trademarks, service marks and trade names referenced in this material are the property of their respective owners.

MEMBER CLASSIFIEDS Would you like to place a classified ad with us? Contact us at (813) 530-4750 or communications@nicainc.org

Concession Business For Sale Serving Fairs and Special Events. Beer stands, pizza stand, churro and pretzel carts, concession equipment and much more. L and L Concessions—ask for Don: (909) 596-5155 (Office) or (909) 732-5074 (Cell). ▲

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

FIRESTONE FINANCES THE CONCESSION INDUSTRY Contact us to learn how we can help grow your business! ⋄ ⋄ ⋄ ⋄

Seasonal payment options Secured working capital loans Financing for new and used rides Finance your concession trailers, bunkhouse, trucks, rides, generators and more!

1-800-851-1001 ext. 42 | www.ﬁrestoneﬁnancial.com

June 2019 NICA News

2019 Membership Contest Leaderboard* 755 Thomas Drive • Bensenville, IL 60106 P: (630) 595-2510 / F: (630) 595-3884 • corfufoods.com

General Membership Fare Foods............................................................................ 3 Wayne Decker....................................................................... 1 Nate Janousek..................................................................... 1 Kim Netterfield...................................................................... 1 Vincent Navarra.................................................................... 1 Dominic Palmieri, CCE......................................................... 1 Robert Poole......................................................................... 1 Pasco County Fair................................................................ 1 Randy Reichert, CCE............................................................. 1

Councils Henry Mitchell...................................................................... 2 Samantha Fairlie.................................................................. 1 Jay Wells............................................................................... 1

Board of Directors

Proudly Distributed Through Fare Foods! For product or purchasing information call 800-651-1601 • www.farefoods.com

Kathy Ross, CCE................................................................... 8 Dan Lusenhop...................................................................... 5 Vincent Nelson, CCE............................................................. 5 Don Delahoyde, CCE............................................................. 2 Kim Barr, CCE........................................................................ 1 Andrew “Bruno” Broomfield................................................. 1 Kevin McGrath, CCE............................................................. 1

Administration Office................................................................................... 27

*Referral listing as of 4/30/19. Contact us if you see any inaccuracies. See back cover for rules and prizes.

Follow Us Online! Are you ready to get engaged in a fun social media project? We’re launching a photo contest, using our brand-new hashtag #MyFairFave! Using the hashtag #MyFairFave, on Facebook or Twitter, show us a photo or video of your favorite part of being in the Fair Industry. The owner of photo or video with the most likes will receive a NICA Swag Bag at the completion of the contest.

search NICA on social media

Distributed by Fare Foods For more information call 800-651-1601 June 2019 NICA News

2019 Events Calendar

Representing NICA & Its Industry Partners

June

July

1: Directors Nominations Due

4: Independence Day (Office Closed)

1: Scholarship Applications Due

15: Director Election Ballots go out to Voting Members

7: Merced County Fair Service Member Meeting • Merced, CA 17: 13th Annual Mark Neagles / NICA West Invitational • Solana Beach, CA 20: San Diego County Fair Service Member Meeting • Del Mar, CA 25: Alameda County Fair Poker & Bingo Social • Pleasanton, CA

25: California State Fair Open House • Sacramento, CA

August 8: Ventura County Fair Service Member Meeting • Ventura, CA

13: 4th Annual Northeast Council Rally at the Erie County Fair • Hamburg, NY 21: Antelope Valley Fair Service Member Meeting • Lancaster, CA 27-29: Day in the Life at the Alaska State Fair • Palmer, AK

September 2: Labor Day (Office Closed) TBA: 13th Annual NICA West / Fairplex Tournament • Pomona CA 30: Director Election Ballots Due

Although these dates are based on sources believed to be reliable and true, they are subject to changes throughout the year. Visit our calendar at www.nicainc.org or view upcoming NICA News for updates, changes, additional dates, and more!

INSURANCE

With over 65 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.

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

June 2019 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: Mailing Address:

City :

Primary Phone Number :

State:

Zip:

State:

Zip:

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

Games

Visa

Guest Services

Credit Card #:

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

___________________________________________________________

q q

Check

Mastercard

Security Code:

Money Order q

American Express

Discover

Expiration Date:

TOTAL:

___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ AD&D Insurance Policy The NICA-sponsored $10,000 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 â€¢ June 2019 Issue

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