Issuu

Contents • June 2016 FEATURES 09 Member’s Voice

Ron Flanigan, F.B. Purnell Sausage Company; Jeff Langlois, The Langlois Company; Laurie Jackson, WOODY’Z; Rob Forner, Joy Cone Company; Trey Higdon, Perfect Stix, LLC

10 Thoughts from a CCE

Justin O’Brien, CCE & Tim O’Brien, CCE, O’Brien’s Food Service

12 This Year’s Scholarship Winners!

11 Association Announcements 18 A Full House! Celebrating NICA with Fundraisers at the Pima County Fair 20 2016-2017 Strategic Planning Goals 25 NICA is the Future

Activities & Events 07 Hidden Object Contest 29 NICA West 10th Anniversary San Diego Golf Tournament 33 Coca-Cola Membership Contest Leaderboard 34 2016 Events Calendar

AdvertiSers

News & Articles 04 Newest Members & Member Renewals 05 President’s Message Paulette Keene

05 Director’s Voice: Food for Thought Dominic Palmieri

34 Allied Specialty Insurance 22 Alpha Baking Co. 27 Berk Concession Supply 02 Coca-Cola 30 Corfu Foods 17 Cusumano & Sons 19 Fanestil Meats 30 Fare Foods 17 Firestone Financial 27 Heinkel's Packing Co., Inc.

22 K & K Insurance 33 Lasco 23 Mr. G's Quality Cut Meats 26 Rio Syrup 07 Sippers by Design 32 Source1 Purchasing 33 Sugardale Foods 17 Swanel Beverage Inc. 28 THE Insurance Company 23 Tastemaker 24 Whirley Drink Works

Dedicated to strengthening relationships with the Fair, Festival, and Special Events Industries through effective communication, 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 • Office: (813) 438-8926 • Fax: (813) 438-8928 • 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 © 1993-2015 NICA, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Have a safe start to your Summer! June 2016 NICA News

This Month’s Newest Members! Bob Bisesi Kraft-Heinz Pittsburg, PA

Martin Foley Foley’s Concessions Whiting, NJ

Aaron Matthews Yosemite Sign Carving Fresno, CA

Marshall Rice KLM Concessions Troy, IL

Kelly Bishop-Villarreal Cowboy Kettle Corn San Antonio, TX

Deborah Foley Foley’s Concessions Whiting, NJ

Vanessae Moran Ledesma Concessions National City, CA

Scot Sanders B & J Concessions Peoria, AZ

Andy Chan Chan’s Concessions Sugar Land, TX

John Giordano C & C Concessions, Inc. La Verne, CA

Justin Murray O'Ryan Hat Co. Redondolbut, CA

David Sulmonetti Pronto Pup Co., Inc. Portland, OR

Steve Crotts Cross S.C. Concession L.L.C. Columbus, OH

Sue Harrison Handy Wacks Sparta, MI

Tim Yoder Premium Waters Riverside, MO

Alan Falgout J & J Snack Foods Vernon, CA

Georgina Kroll Frye Enterprises Inc. Bushnell, FL

Jeremy Niederman West Coast Emergency Medical Services Whittier, CA

Paul Farnum Suck It Up Concessions Riverside, CA

William (Billy) Level Hog Wild BBQ Ronceuerte, WV

Kim Pozderac Texas Twist Pretzel Carrollton, TX

We wish a warm welcome to all 21 of our new members! Remember, one referred new member is an entry into the Coca-Cola Membership Contest. See the back cover for more details.

This Month’s Member Renewals Andrew Andrescavage Lakeland Marketing St Louis, MO (2010) Barb Applegate Con Agra Foods Gretna, NE (2012) Robert Berk Berk Concession Supply Warren, OH (1995) Brian Berry Sugardale Food Service Findlay, OH (2006) Carl Brakebush Brakebush Brothers, Inc. Westfield, WI (1994) Kelley Butler Butler Amusements Elk Grove, CA (2013) Dan Carroll WNA Lenexa, KS (2008) Ron Cheatle Swanel Beverages Hammond, IN (2010)

June 2016 NICA News

Jonathan Chestnut Chestnut Identity Apparel, Inc. Brookdale, CA (2010) Lara Christenson Advanced Food Products, LLC New Holland, PA (2015) Joe Ciprioni Teti Bakery Cleveland, OH (2014) Jerry Constantine Corfu Foods, Inc. Bensenville, IL (2004) Pam Cooper Lamb Weston Dallas, TX (2008) Tony Costanza Firestone Financial Corp. Needham, MA (2012) Kristin Cullaz Gehls Foods, LLC Germantown, WI (2007)

Rex Cusumano Cusumano & Sons, Inc. Mt. Vernon, IL (2006)

Rob Forner Joy Cone Company Hermitage, PA (2007)

Marc Dobson The One Man Band Cocoa, FL (2014)

Jason Gardner Gold Medal Products Co. Cincinnati, OH (2001)

Lisa Dominique Sippers by Design Miami, FL (2008)

Joe Guerra Rudy’s Chips Carrollton, TX (2015)

Ron Flanigan F.B. Purnell Sausage Co. Simpsonville, KY (1998)

Clayton Hall Heart O’Texas Concessions, Inc. Waco, TX (2012)

Jorge Flores Lasco Foods St. Louis, MO (2009) Joanne Fontanini Fontanini / Capitol Wholesale Meats McCook, IL (1997)

Wes Heinkel Heinkel’s Packing Co., Inc. Decatur, IL (2004) David Hensley Hensley Concessions Lynchburg, SC (2013)

►► “Renewals” continued on page 7

President’s Message Paulette Keene, President

to continue their education to be a better person and hopefully stay in the Fair business. Hello fellow Members! Please, if you know the recipients, congratulate May ended Spring with them! Also, please encourage those who did not its green grass, blooming receive a scholarship this year to apply again next azaleas, and colorful roses. year. We believe that we have a system in place How refreshing! It was also where everyone has an opportunity to apply. a time for celebrations: Hopefully, we all have the upgrading of our Mother’s Day, birthdays, stands wrapped up as we move into our 2016 graduations, and Memorial season. Usually Spring also means we are getting Day. The birds arrive and excited about hitting the road, getting less sleep, chirp while we are getting and facing the day-to-day experiences of moving into the full swing of our our equipment hundreds of miles over the year. business and travel and we are sending our We know the stress of traveling and working is children off to college or off to travel with our difficult; however, it also brings a lot of pride to equipment to open locations. Just as the birds have your stand set and ready to open. train their babies to fly, it’s always a worry; but It is important for NICA Members to work sometimes, we must make that next step to let on establishing Concession/Vendor Committee our children grow wings and fly. We all know we’re Meetings with your Fair partners so move-in in a hard profession; yet, if we have children or and move-out procedures can be smooth for all grandchildren who are impelled to stay in the involved. Make sure you read your contract and fair business, lets encourage and build them up with support. It makes me proud that NICA has a ►► “Message” continued on page 6 Scholarship Program that helps those who want

Director’s Voice “Food for Thought” Dominic Palmieri, 1st Vice President Fresh out of the Spring Board Meeting in St. Pete brings new vigor, great ideas, to do lists, check lists, comradery and plans of action. Your NICA Board is committed to staying on course and leading this organization into 2016/17 Fair seasons. We have been working the past few years from our Strategic Plan with both long and

short-term goals. This year we really fine tuned them to get us laser focused on some projects that will continue to foster new Members, create more lines of communication with Fairs, deliver greater member benefits, provide scholarships, help educate our Members and ultimately help you deliver great products and service to your customers. We have several items on our agenda for the benefit of all our Members that need attention and we are working at accomplishing those items.

►► “Director’s Voice” continued on page 8 June 2016 NICA News

Officers

President: Paulette Keene 1st Vice President: Dominic Palmieri 2nd Vice President: Dennis Fraleigh Secretary: Kathy Ross Treasurer: Jennifer Giordano

Directors

Sandy Class Dan Lusenhop Justin Sattler Daryl Whicheloe, CCE

Immediate Past President Joe Potillo, Jr.

Past Presidents’ Council 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)

NICA OFFICE

NICA WEST OFFICE

nica Northeast Council Tom Ferguson Kelly Grout Russ Harrison, CCE Vinnie Nelson Jim Staub, Jr.

2130 Walnut St, La Verne, CA 91750

know everything it says ahead of time. Be sure the footage, electricity, menus, and other details are all correct. It also makes for a smoother transition if the Fair Management reviews all their aspects of the contract and fulfills their duties. Then both parties are up to date and informed on all the details of the contracts. If changes are made on either part, it should be done well before the Fair starts so there are not any surprises for either party. I believe this makes for a pleasant and easy pull-in and set up of the stand and camper for all involved. That means communication is important all year long. “Together We Can” continue to have successful Fairs and Events without complications. The NICA Board of Directors continues to grow our Membership and create more Regional Councils where you can get involved with your local Concessionaires and friends to find more ways to increase our “Voice in the Industry.” Wishing you a Safe and Healthy year! ▲ June 2016 NICA News

Kim Barr Nate Janousek Dan Lusenhop Ashley Murray Mike Newman Dale Smith Lisa Thompson-Baker Jay Wells Daryl Whicheloe, CCE April Wood

Interim Executive Manager : Rey O’Day • rey@nicainc.org Office Manager: Yachika Rogers • nica@nicainc.org Communications, Marketing & Design: Jesse Willard • communications@nicainc.org Bookkeeper: Lisa Fleming • bookkeeper@nicainc.org

“Message” continued from page 5 ►►

NICA West Council

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

Are you Interested in becoming a National Representative, Council Member, starting a Communications Committee, or learning more about NICA? Contact the NICA Office by phone at (813) 438-8926 or via email at nica@nicainc.org

Zach Risen Coca-Cola Refreshments Miami, FL (1999)

“Renewals” continued from page 4 ►► Trey Higdon Perfect Stix, LLC Vero Beach, FL (2006)

David McArthur Bono-Burns Distributing St. Louis, MO (2015)

Andy Schaefer R.J. Schinner Overland, MO (2011)

Adam Jobe Valley Meats, LLC Coal Valley, IL (2009)

Brian McKay Inland Empire Concessions Spokane, WA (2013)

Dan Sher State Fair Mini Donuts Minnetonka, MN (2013)

James Kekelis James Tea Company Painesville, OH (2010) John Kerrigan Bunge Oil Chicago, IL (2007) Sandra Lewis Nathan’s Famous Ft. Lauderdale, FL (2015) Jeff Lindsey Alpha Baking Waukee, IA (2007) James Malmquist Key’s Koncessions Marathon, FL (1997)

Rick McMillian R3 - Reliable Redistribution Resource St. Louis, MO (2006) Bill Morrissey Fabri-Kal O’Fallen, MO (2015) Mike Petzel Dawn Food Products Kansas City, MO (2006) Justin Reed TasteMaker Foods Memphis, TN (1998)

Kenny Smith Rocken Graphics Gibsonton, FL (2012)

Melissa Thum Thum Insurance Agency, LLC Grand Rapids, MI (2014) Phillip Tomber RIO Syrup Company, Inc. St. Louis, MO (1997) Gena Tuttle Butler Amusements Elk Grove, CA (2013) Tonio Viscusi Angela’s International Schenectady, NY (2015)

Mary Chris Smith Tim Weir Allied Specialty Leon’s Texas Cuisine Insurance, Inc. Treasure Island, FL (1993) McKinney, TX (2015) Dan Smoots Fanestil’s Quality Meats Emporia, KS (2007)

Dave Westrum Westrums Quality Foods Delano, MN (2014)

Terry Strahm A to Z Portion Control Meats, Inc. Bluffton, OH (2007)

Dave Williams Mr. G’s Quality Cut Meats Chillicothe, MO (2004) Marlo Wolfe Osage Brokerage St. Charles, MO (2006)

Thank you to all 55 of our Renewing Members for your continued support of NICA! “Together We Can!” Is your NICA membership renewal due soon? To find out, you can call the NICA Office at (813) 438-8926, email us at nica@nicainc.org, or check your account balance online anytime at www.nicainc.org.

HIDDEN OBJECT

She sells Sea Shells on the sea shore. The shells she sells are Sea Shells I’m sure. If you see it, you can win a Gift Card worth $25!

Find the Sea Shell

So... What if you Find it?

Contest!

Well, lucky reader, tell us where you think it is by entering online at www.nicainc.org/pages/hiddenobject

You may also call the NICA Office at (813) 438-8926 or send us a letter with the page number, general page location, your name, address, and phone number to NICA, Hidden Object Contest, 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511. Member entries must be sent in by June 30, 2016.

Happy Searching this Month! The Next Winner Could Even be You! June 2016 NICA News

“Director’s Voice” continued from page 5 ►► As a member organization, the importance of enlisting new Members is priority number one. The organization is only as strong as the Members it serves. The more Members we serve well, the stronger we become. This allows us the opportunity to help champion important items like H2B labor issues, secure great buying programs, find special deals on big bulk purchase items, and align ourselves with sister organizations like IAFE, OABA, WFA, Showmen’s League, and State Fair Associations. All of these opportunities combined help to create a better Industry, better Operators, better Fairs, and happier Customers. We are committed to sign up more Members at every opportunity presented. We are scheduling many fundraisers from Shot Gun Shoots, Poker Tournaments, Golf Tournaments, Bowling Events, Coffee Klatches, Survival Kits, and even Impromptu Dinners. Bring one of these social events to your Fairs and invite attendees for the chance to sign up new NICA Members. Just the last Poker Tournament alone brought us seven new Members! LABOR—it’s a nightmare! As many of you know the H2B Program has become a major area of concern for many of our Members. 2015 was a very difficult year and 2016 has proven to be even tougher. My phone rings off the hook from Members having issues with their applications, lack of employees, or even quality of employees. NICA will be helping to work through the challenges of H2B with our sister organization OABA. This year will also prove to be EXTREMELY challenging with the pressure of many states and/or counties significantly raising minimum wage. How will this affect our operations? We know this will affect our bottom line and our Fairs’ bottom lines as well. What happens to pricing at the parking lot, front gate, retail stall, concession stand, and Carnival midway? How will we achieve Nirvana with this? Well, we are planning content to present for Convention Season that will stimulate discussions and solutions for these concerns. By the way, we always welcome Members who want to help speak at State Association Meetings. If you are attending one this season and want to help, the 8

June 2016 NICA News

Dominic Palmieri and the rest of the winners table at the Pima County Poker Tournament (see page 18), one of the many fundraisers that NICA coordinates

NICA Office has information to help you. This is all part of our planning. Scholarships are one of the most important things we can do to help educate our youth and build our future. The NICA Scholarship Committee just awarded ten scholarships for a total of $15,000! This is a lot of money for a small organization like ours, and a remarkable feat. See the feature on page 12 to see all the honored recipients for this year. One of our most accomplished successes is that we adopted procedures to create Councils across the USA. West Council, celebrating its 10-year anniversary, has been a great model of success that we will be rolling out across the country. Council growth will include the North East, Midwest, and Atlantic areas. Jessica Castro will become the Northeast Council Coordinator and Jeff Thornberry, CCE has agreed to chair our Commercial/Retail Vendor Task Force. As you can see, we have a busy agenda and a lot to accomplish! You, our Members, are the core of why we do our work. Most important is that we need your positive energy. How will you be engaged to help us help you? It really doesn’t take much to help, and your efforts go a long way. Duties as simple as passing out flyers at a Fair for an event, helping host a fundraiser, speaking at a Fair Association meeting, signing up a new member, serving on a Concession / Vendor Committee, or even as easy as helping to clean up after a NICA event. You can see we have NICA’s best interests at heart. We work on behalf of the ENTIRE Membership, not just a few, so everyone has the opportunity to get involved! We hope you will help to make us stronger by giving us your best. I am honored to serve you and I assure you, your Board of Directors works hard on behalf of you because “Together We Can!” ▲

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, especially when it comes to which benefits are being used and which events people are interested in attending. The NICA Office has been continuing their survey of responses from Renewing Members. This month, we continued our look at our renewing Associate Members. Ron Flanigan, F.B. Purnell Sausage Company from Simpsonville, KY, remarked that his relationship with NICA is “ongoing and glowing,” which is very good. At first, he met with Fare Foods and joined their Food Show. He was impressed with this Food Show because he, as a Vendor, gets to talk with the actual buyer. He feels this has helped his company a lot as he listens to their suggestions and has developed other products as a result. He said that he is aware of many of the benefits and pointed out that although he doesn’t carry the Membership Card on his person, he keeps it in his car since it has a handy list on the back with information needed to use most of the benefits. He has made use of the Hertz car rental and it has saved him “a lot.” He enjoys reading NICA News and looks to see if any of his customers made it in the pictures. In fact, even his grandson made it one time. He also stated that he preferred to read it “in hard copy,” but did occasionally read it online. Jeff Langlois, The Langlois Company out of Mira Loma, CA, said that his relationship with NICA has been very good. His company is a manufacturer of flours, batters, and sauces with which they can custom blend and make it unique to their customers’ needs. He feels NICA gives him an opportunity to network with the Members which enables him to reach across the country and grow his business. He admitted that he has not taken much advantage of the NICA Benefits as he felt they were more geared to the Food Concessionaire. When asked if he had any suggestions for benefits he stated one for shipping. It was nice to inform him NICA

had secured one with FedEx that he needed to investigate. He enjoys reading the paper copy of the NICA News and looks “forward to reading it” since “Fair Season is opening soon” and he gets to see many of his customers in the magazine. Laurie Jackson, WOODY’Z of Santa Ana, CA, described her relationship with NICA as “it’s awesome.” She felt that the NICA Members are so friendly and not at all judgmental. They are a wonderful group of people who are “not standoffish.” She has not made use of the benefits yet but plans to check into the FedEx Discount since the service she uses now wants her to change her box sizes. She also wants to use the credit card benefit offered by First Data. She passes the NICA News around her office, as everyone wants to enjoy reading about where some of their customers are going to be. She also feels that the pictures and announcements help to give it a “family feeling.” Laurie thinks that the NICA News does a really good job of covering the news and the pictures are “especially nicely done.” She has attended the WFA Convention and the NICA West Food Show held in conjunction together and found it to be very informative and helpful for her. “It was nice to be included in the after party!”

►► “Member’s Voice” continued on page 11 June 2016 NICA News

Thoughts from a This month’s Statement of Communications & Management Philosophy is from NICA Past President Tim O’Brien, CCE & Justine O’Brien, CCE, O’Brien’s Food Service:

Tim O’Brien, CCE “My personal philosophy comes from something I learned as a child and use in my personal life, as well as my business dealings: the Golden Rule—“Do unto others as you would have done to you,” or in my own words, “treat em’ like you want to be treated.” To me, that means treating fellow Concessionaires, Fair Management, the public, purveyors, and the help in the most courteous and professional way possible. I like to think we are all an extended family looking out for the greater good of Justine & Tim O’Brien, CCEs everyone involved in the Fair Industry, trying to give the public O’Brien’s Food Service a fair deal, clean places to eat and a good constant quality CCEs Earned in 2000 product (the Fair, Rides, Food, and Games) in hopes that they will return in the future. As technology moves our industry and the rest of the world farther and farther into the future, nothing will be able to replace good old fashioned hands-on customer service. A computer will never be able to serve a person a corn dog or treat that person like I would like to be treated—with a kind word and a smile.” ▲

Justine O’Brien, CCE “I did not grow up in the Concession Industry. However, my Mom and Dad owned a meat company and I learned from them that hard work, friendliness, and being as helpful as possible would take me far in anything I chose to do. Oddly enough, growing up in the industry my family chose prepared me for the concession business. If a grocery store, big chain, or little “mom and pop” called my Dad on a Sunday morning because they were running out of the advertised special, we would load up the family, head to the plant, load a truck, and deliver it. If a church group, the K of C, or a local restaurant called on a Saturday night for more chicken, and my Dad knew he didn’t have it, he would call other meat markets in the area and find the product his customer needed. There are other meat purveyors just like my Mom and Dad who were willing to help each other out, even though they competed with each other for the same business in town. As you can see from these examples, I was able to apply this same philosophy I learned from my family to the Concession Industry.” ▲ 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. The applicant must have a minimum of seven years as a full-time chief operating manager of an independent concession business and be a current member of NICA, at least one State Association, and of one of the following associations: IAFE, IFEA, or the WFA. The applicant must then complete a questionnaire and a 150-200 word personal philosophy of communication and management as it relates to the fair industry. Applications are accepted until October 1st of each year. Visit the CCE website for more details: goo.gl/H3VKUf 10

June 2016 NICA News

Association

Announcements Do you have any news that you would you like to contribute to our Association Announcements section? Contact the NICA Office at (813) 438-8926 or e-mail nica@nicainc.org to share your information and/or photos.

Join NICA West’s Golf Tournament this month! The 10th Annual NICA West Golf Tournament takes place on June 20, 2016, during the San Diego County Fair, at the Lomas Santa Fe Country Club in Solana Beach, CA. See page 29 in this issue for more details and information on how to sign up. For more information on this event and how to become a sponsor, contact event organizers (and NICA Members) Gary Barham at (619) 987-3049, Nate Janousek at (214) 403-0706, or Ashley Murray at (310) 316-7510. ▲

Our Thoughts Go Out to the Hall Family NICA Member Matthew Hall’s son Carson (pictured at bottom) has been diagnosed with DIPG, which is a rare brain stem tumor. He is now starting radiation after an exhausting search of a treatment facility. Our thoughts go out to him and his family during this trying time and we hope he gets the support he needs. For updates and information on how to help, visit www.facebook.com/carsonscrusadershutch ▲

►► “Announcements” continued on page 25 his business “tremendously.” Trey’s main line, before he became a NICA Member through the Food Show, was ice cream sticks. NICA Rob Forner, Joy Cone Company from networking has created new doors, opening to a Hermitage, PA, described his relationship with “whole new market.” He said that he was aware NICA as “somewhat distant.” His job requires so of most of the discounts and had used many of much time to cover his territory (over 22 states) them frequently, mentioning Hertz, Budget, and that he is often unable to even make it to the NICA CheckInn Direct. “Any discount always helps!” Business Expo and Fare Foods Food Show. His When asked about NICA News, his comment was company is represented—just not by him each “I love the magazine! As a Vendor, I get to see all time. He also admitted that, “in all honesty,” he the other companies and many of our customers had not taken the opportunity to use most of the in it. It helps me know what’s going on in the NICA Benefits, but he feels that NICA News is a Industry. Great publication!” very informative, up-to-date periodical that “gives The NICA Office plans to continue these calls you news you need to know.” He attributes his to our Renewing Members throughout 2016 and relationship with NICA to his association with Fare beyond, especially since we have just added new Foods as his distributor. discounts through Source1 Purchasing and would Trey Higdon, Perfect Stix, LLC of Vero Beach, love to hear your experience. If you hear from us, FL, stated that he has a very strong relationship let us know what’s on your mind! If we haven’t with NICA through Fare Foods. NICA has helped called yet, we’ll be in touch soon. ▲

“Member’s Voice” continued from page 9 ►►

June 2016 NICA News

This Year’s Scho Investing in Our Future An often overlooked NICA Benefit is the group of Scholarships awarded each year. This year, NICA is awarding the Coca-Cola CCE Scholarship, worth $3,000, presented in honor of all NICA Members who achieve the distinction of Certified Concessionaire Executive (CCE). Three other NICA Scholarships worth $2,000 and six more worth $1,000 are provided by NICA fundraising events. One of the hardest working committees in NICA this time of year is the Scholarship Committee, featuring Sandy Class, Director, and Jennifer Giordano, Treasurer, as Co-Chairs. They in turn select three NICA members to be the readers of every scholarship that has been properly processed through the NICA Office. The

copy they receive has been redacted so there is no evidence of who the recipient is; even “he” or “she” is blacked out so the applicants are only known by their particular number. The readers work individually with each entry, allotting points for nine varied categories. Afterwards, they meet via conference call and discuss who tallied the most in order to determine the winners. It is often a tight race and requires a lot of time to select who the readers feel are the best recipients. NICA wants to thank all involved in this process, especially the anonymous “readers.” Congratulations to all!

$3,000 Scholarship Winner Isabella Barona

Attending Chapman University

Isabella Barona is the daughter of Stacey Pittroff-Barona and Robert Barona, of Giant Ride, and the granddaughter of Fred Pittroff, December’s Living Legend. Isabella is the proud recipient of the Coca-Cola CCE Scholarship worth $3,000. She will be attending Chapman University in Orange, CA this September, pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Business. Isabella plans to continue in her family’s footsteps by one day taking over the family concessions business. She hopes to continue the business started by her grandparents in “as high of regards as it is held in today.” Currently she is a member of the National Honor Society, writes articles for her school Chronicle, tutors children with learning disabilities, holder of a varsity letter for tennis, member of the art club, manager of Giant Slide Ride during Wisconsin and Minnesota Fairs, while being the nanny for three boys under the age of eight. Others have described “Izzy” as a focused learner, personally driven, open minded, and most importantly, able to listen with earnest and eager attention. 12

June 2016 NICA News

olarship Winners $2,000 Scholarship Winners Hannah Chambers

Attending the University of Kentucky

Hannah Chambers the daughter of Michael and Lisa Chambers, of American Food Service, and has been awarded one of the $2,000 scholarships. She plans to attend the University of Kentucky pursuing both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s Degree in Engineering. Hannah was a National Honor Society Member. She tutored fellow students struggling or who needed extra help and volunteered with the Interact Club in addition to being Captain of the varsity cross-country team, track and field team, and basketball team. Hannah is the fourth generation of Concessionaires in her family’s business. She started as the “Coke girl,” filling cups with soda when she was younger. When she could see over the counter, she began taking orders and making change without a cash register or calculator. By the time she was twelve, she ventured out of her parent’s business and began working for others. This was a great opportunity because she learned what it was like to work for someone other than her parents. She has continued to work with her parents and even training new employees. Hannah has been described by others as a “motivated and responsible person with a high degree of integrity.” She takes the initiative to identify problems and devise solutions.

Cassidy Forbing

Attending IPFW

Cassidy Forbing, daughter of Gina Pippenger and Chris Forbing, of Forbing Concessions, was awarded a scholarship worth $2,000. She will be attending Indiana University–Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW) while pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management. Her earliest memories consist of the involvement of her parents with the concession business. She worked at the Fairs from the time she was allowed to get herself into the unit. In high school she worked a full summer with her Dad and decided it was an option she wanted to pursue as her career. Cassidy maintained the Honor Roll from sixth to twelfth grade. She is a member of the National Honors Society, her church’s youth group, as well as a music leader for Vacation Bible School. She was also a section leader and stage crew captain for the show choir.

►► “Scholarship Winners” concluded on page 14 June 2016 NICA News

“Scholarship Winners” continued from page 13 ►► Others have described Cassidy as being very personable and able to work well with everyone that she meets. She “always wears an infectious smile and is sincerely interested in being the best she can be.”

Brooke Kozelou

Attending Arizona State University

Brooke Kozelou is the daughter of Bruce and Cindy Kozelou, of 3B Concessions, and the winner of a $2,000 scholarship this year. She plans to transfer from Iowa State University to Arizona State University as she wanted “out of the cold” while pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Science. Brooke worked as a volunteer for several organizations including the Wisconsin Senior Center, Children’s World Impact Organization, Anti-Bullying Initiative, and Pennies for Pedals. She also participated in school functions such as volleyball, prom committee, Key Club, H.A.R.T. Club, and led the winning team in her entrepreneur class, raising money for a local charity. Brooke has worked in her family’s concession business for as long as she can remember. Standing on a foot stool to be able to work the counters, she learned the importance of working pleasantly with the customers. At the age of 14, she bought her first lemonade stand to accompany her gumball machine. She continues to work this unit when out of school during the summer. She also helps her parents with their units by managing and training staff and being the creative force behind the signage and uniforms. According to others, Brooke is described as “an incredibly mature, hardworking, independent person who is business minded and creative.”

$1,000 Scholarship Winners Andrea Huston

Attending the University of Dubuque

Andrea Huston, daughter of Gail and Chris Huston, of Huston Enterprises/ Huston Family Foods, was awarded a scholarship worth $1,000. She is attending the University of Dubuque pursuing an undergraduate Bachelor’s Degree in Communications / Public Relations. She plans to continue working in the family’s concessions business, which is sixth generation until she graduates. She then hopes to be doing Here’s to the future members of the NICA Board of Directors! Public Relations for a Carnival company or applying her graphic design to impact the appeal of the Food Concession business. Andrea was a scholar leader of the Honors Program at her University. She was a member of the Octagon Club and Key Club. She volunteered for the Saturday Night Meal and Worship for the homeless for ten years. “Andrea comes to work with a smile on her face for both the guests as well as her co-workers. She is personable, efficient, and dependable. Even during stressful situations, she remains pleasant, friendly, and calm.” 14

June 2016 NICA News

Dustin Kenna

Attending Indiana University

Dustin Kenna is the son of Donald and Cecelia Kenna of Dickerson & Kenna Concessions. He was awarded a scholarship worth $1,000. He is attending Indiana University pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing. He plans to take the information he has learned in the marketing sector and apply it to the State Fair Marketing Division and the Concession Industry. He hopes that he can continue his education to obtain a Master’s Degree in Marketing. He has been involved as an intermural sports captain, played varsity soccer, was a scholar athlete, a member of the Camp Kesem University Student Organization, Christian Student Fellowship, Key Club, and DECA. He also participated in the Robert T. Grand Leadership Academy. Dustin has been described as “a volunteer who goes above and beyond what is expected of him. He willingly and consistently takes time away from other recreation in order to serve those in need.” He has a work ethic comprised of “diligence, quality and kindness.”

Keanan Moreno

Attending California State University

Keanan Moreno, the son of Rebekah and Carlos Garcia received a $1,000 scholarship from NICA. Keanan is a NICA Member himself, as an employee, under the Family-A-Fair, Inc. company. He is currently enrolled at the California State University in Long Beach, CA where he is pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Working the Fairs has taught him that hard work pays off. He wants to be able to create something useful to society. Keanan has been a participant of the AVID Program for five years to help him prepare for college and he earned the Star Award. He not only worked a job, but participated in Jiu Jitsu those same years and earned from white to blue belt at age 15. He worked at his aunt and uncle’s food stand starting at age 11. He was only allowed to fill drinks, but by age 13 he learned to work the register, and, by the age of 15, he was the person in charge of training new cashiers. From two weeks of filling drinks, Keanan became a full time worker traveling all summer and learning every station from cook to office work. Others mention that Keanan is “responsible, dedicated to excellence and of the highest moral character. He always goes above and beyond what is asked of him.”

Adreanne Penn

Attending the University of Missouri – St. Louis

Adreanne Penn is the daughter of Carrie and Brian Caldwell. She is the granddaughter of David Penn of Family Foods & Concessions, LLC. She was awarded a $1,000 scholarship. She is attending the University of Missouri – St. Louis, pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Special Education. Adreanne stated that “until my grandpa decides to retire and sell the business, I do believe that it will stay a part of my life.” She plans to take “life lessons learned” and apply them to her career as a teacher. She participates in softball, band, and several different choir activities along with receiving a

►► “Scholarship Winners” concluded on page 16 June 2016 NICA News

“Scholarship Winners” continued from page 15 ►► Conductor’s Award. She has volunteered to make cotton candy and kettle corn at several events. Adreanne has also volunteered at the YMCA, Mothers of Twins Club, and the Villa West Dance Studio. “Adreanne is a true asset to our team and is valued by all those who work with her. Her compassion for others, her desire to excel in everything, and her good humor and wit are all traits that make her successful in school, work, and life.”

Ashley Rockwell

Attending Madison College

Ashley Rockwell the daughter of Chris and Lori Rockwell of Charlies/ Lori’s Sugar Shack was awarded NICA’s $1,000 scholarship. She plans to attend Madison College in Wisconsin pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Business. Ashley is the sixth generation in her family’s concession business. She left the hospital as a two day old and has been at the Wisconsin State Fair every summer since. Diagnosed with dyslexia in grade school, she has had to work very hard which she learned about from working the concessions. She participated in basketball for which she received the Cardinal Award and became Captain of the team. She taught under privileged kids, afterschool bible club, and coached basketball for girls in fourth and fifth grades. She also substituted as a Sunday School teacher and helped with the youth group planning committee. “Ashley comes to work with a great attitude and gives 110%. She goes out of her way to ensure that others are included and is always there to provide support along with mediation to those who are struggling. She personally struggles daily with her reading and writing but she works diligently to ensure her work is up to a high standard.”

Samantha Shepard

Attending University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point

Samantha Shepard, daughter of Gary and Cheryl Shepard of G & G Concessions, was awarded a NICA Scholarship worth $1,000. She is attending the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. Samantha plans to use two things she learned while working in the concession business which are communication and perseverance. Learning to communicate has been useful in solving and avoiding problems, while perseverance got her through the long nights of studying for exams. Someday she wants to own her own business. She volunteered at a dance studio helping beginning dancers with recitals, was a member of County Student Government Association, and taught Special Education in the high school. She participated in three sports—basketball, soccer, and swimming. While being a FFA member and a student representative on Student Council, she also received the Sauk County Art Association Award. “Samantha has shown many times that she is an exceptionally fast learner, loyal, honest, and extremely hard worker. She can handle a wide variety of tasks and never backed down from a challenge. She handles any difficulty with grace, calmness, and intellect.” Well, that about does it for this year’s Scholarship Program. Thank you again to all applicants, our Scholarship Committee, and the Office Staff who helped process the applications. Congratulations! 16

June 2016 NICA News

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

Family Owned & Operated • Serving Our Customers Since 1904

Proudly serving the concessions

industry with their produce needs.

Distributed Through Fare Foods Call 800-651-1601 For More Information

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

Premium Fountain Syrups • Real Fruit Juices • Simple Syrup

Tasting Is Believing! You can beat the high cost of brand name syrups & make your beverage program more profitable!

Fountain Syrup Dispensers and Ice Machines available for purchase. Talk to your FARE FOODS salesman today or call for details 800-651-1601 June 2016 NICA News

A FULL HOUSE!

Celebrating NICA with a Fundraisers at the Pima County Fair Rey O’Day, Interim Executive Manager I arrived in Tucson, AZ at the Pima County Fair on a lovely desert afternoon in April. When I stepped on the grounds I could feel the buzz of a happy Fair: busy smiling fairgoers. By nightfall I could feel the buzz of our NICA Poker Tournament: pizza cooking, last minute invitations to play, prizes being collected, and tables and chairs to set up. About 10:30 PM the players began to fill the Cantina: with pizza and salad in one hand (provided by Dominic Palmieri, Odyssey Foods, and Peddlers and Sons) and a beer in the other hand, strategy conversations with friends were everywhere. By 11:00 we had A FULL HOUSE and every one at the tables ready to play including last year’s tournament winner, Mamadou Diop, Mamadu’s Village. Whoops! Hollers! Laughs! Quiet Intensity! Dan Lusenhop, Director, And shouts of “No pulling tickets and Dominic Palmieri, 1st Vice President, way!” punctuated the placing his winning tickets evening. Jay Wells, West Council member, and Dan Lusenhop, NICA Director, ran the buy- back-ins and tickets, Rey O’Day, Interim Executive Manager, kept track of the funds and took photos, and Dominic Palmieri kept us all organized. As players went out, they received tickets to put in the cups by their favorite prizes which included a BBQ, Justin Murray M&M Marketing, Pepsi RockStar Jeremy Niederman West Coast neon sign, tequila EMS, Mamadou Diop Mamadu’s tasting set, comfy Village; and Aaron Matthews Yosemite Carved Signs planning camping chair, and spray painted their strategy 18

June 2016 NICA News

Let the Games Begin!

original paintings. At the end of the evening, the tickets were drawn to determine the winners. Of course, the most coveted prize was the 2017 free RV space donated by the Pima County Fair and it was won by Carol Wells! A big shout out to 1st place Tournament Winner Justin Murray, M & M Marketing, 2nd place winner Jess To, Sign Carver, and 3rd place winner Andy Chan, Chan’s Concessions. Congratulations!

Andy Chan, 3rd Place Winner and Jess To, 2nd Place Winner

Justin Murray, 1st Place Winner

In addition, a big “Thank You!” to the table sponsors: Stephanie and Nate Janousek, Fun Biz Concessions, Mark Neagles, Good Source Solutions, Debbie and Jerry Phillips, Action Foods, and Art Rogers, Berk Concession Supply. Let’s welcome our five new NICA Members: Paul Farnum, Suck it Up Concessions, Aaron Matthews, Yosemite Sign Carver, Justin Murray, M & M Marketing, Jeremy Niederman, West Coast Emergency Medical Services, and Scott Sanders, B & J Concessions. But wait, there is a lot more! The next

morning the Fair hosted a delicious Concessionaire breakfast cooked by Lisa Thompson-Baker, Lisa’s Concessions and West Council Member, and her team. During Paul, Carol and Scott this breakfast, a door Sanders, B & J Concessions The Wells family: Carol, Morgan and Josh enjoying prize of a huge cooler with Lisa Thompson-Baker, breakfast (and thinking about next year’s RV spot) full of ice and beer was Lisa’s Concessions, West Council Member, Event Chief awarded. Guess who The Legacy of John Needham Cook, and Bottle Washer! had the winning ticket? Amazingly, it was Justin Murray, M & M Marketing, Following the breakfast, many went out to the lucky winner of the Poker Tournament! Needham’s Hole #1 to participate in a Closest-tothe-Pin fundraiser. Who is Needham and why is there a golf hole out in the desert? John Needham was a longtime Concessionaire at Pima County Fair and a NICA Member that many described as gracious, friendly, genuine, welcoming and an advocate for many, rather than a lobbyist for himself. Jon Baker with the Winning Ticket holder, Justin Murray

►► “A Full House” continued on page 26

June 2016 NICA News

2016-2017 Strategic Planning Goals Rey O’Day, Interim Executive Manager Increasing and Strengthening Membership Co-chairs: Kathy Ross, Dan Lusenhop Agenda Reports are during January, May, and September NICA will become a stronger organization throughout the USA and Canada by increasing membership and member participation in organizational activities by:

•

• •

Long-Term • Establishing Regional Councils that are responsive to members regional issues and concerns • Increasing membership by 100 annually through retention of current members and recruiting new members • Recruiting new membership with a focus in geographic areas where there is limited representation • Requiring ALL Board, Council, and National Reps to bring in ONE new member annually Short-Term • Create a Commercial Vendor Task Force that will bring in 25 new Commercial Vendors annually and develop a plan to do so • Develop new and strengthen existing Councils by putting the NICA Regional Council Action Plan – 2016 in place by April 2017 • Redesign the NICA application/advertising handout for signing up new members • Add Business Memberships to application immediately • Send or email Member Fairs a letter asking them to place NICA applications in their vendor packets February 1st, June 1st and October 1st each year • Upgrade member renewal package • BOD and Council members agree to host one “grass roots” social/fundraising event each season • BOD and Council Members agree to talk to one unknown Concessionaire at every Fair played about NICA Membership and its benefits • Provide a PDF of applications, benefit lists, and NICA News advertising rates to all BOD and 20

June 2016 NICA News

• • •

Council Members for their use in recruiting and/or informing members about NICA Develop a membership retention plan with activities and goals that includes reaching out to members consistently, not just when renewing or dropping membership Develop a wider distribution of NICA News and NICA Now Develop NICA “Newsie” program where select members receive 20 NICA News magazines and distribute them to Fair staff and nonmember Vendors and their employees Involve NICA Members in strategic goals, fundraising, and social committees Send application to non-members who attended the NICA Business Expo Develop a digital NICA Membership card

Professional Voice in the Industry Co-chairs: Dominic Palmieri, Justin Sattler, Joe Potillo, Jr. Agenda Reports are during February, June, and October Because NICA desires to be recognized as a professional leader in the Event Industry NICA will: Long-Term • Present balanced/well thought out procedures and solutions for long-time industry issues and regulatory concerns at convention workshops and work for their adoption by Fair Associations. • Partner with fair management to create Communication Committees that work in a spirit of cooperation to make decisions for the good of all involved. • Print mission statement on all NICA documents and publications Short-Term • Focus on NICA Talking Points: Transfer of Ownership, Exclusive Sponsorship, Rising Rents and Deposits, and Contract Management (Overbooking / Menu Selection) • Develop materials to use for speaking on these talking points • Add all State Fair Association dates and information to NICA Membership Directory

• Identify all Zone and State Fair Association meetings and assign members to attend • BOD Members participate in at least one state or zone panel or workshop annually • Review IAFE P/L and propose the 2016 NICA schedule of events including workshop/ roundtable topics for IAFE consideration and Industry Appreciation Reception • Purposely invite NEW speakers and panelists • Start a Vendor Communications Committee in 10 Fairs with more than 50 Concessionaires • Reinstitute BOD orientation training and update BOD information book. • Expand NICA News content by inviting Fair Management, IAFE Liaisons, Members, Directors, benefit companies, Past Presidents, and the Advisory Committee to submit articles or be interviewed • Expand Read and Win Program • Proactively gather BOD and Council nominations from across the country Increasing Benefits Co-chairs: Dennis Fraleigh, Daryl Whicheloe, CCE Agenda Reports are during March, July, and November Recognizing that member benefits are important to NICA for membership savings, and organization revenue, NICA will: Long-Term • Provide members with numerous channels to learn about member benefits • Use the buying power of its membership to annually obtain at least one new national and/ or regional benefit • Increase rebates by 10%

• Develop a benefit list of companies/products that would attract commercial exhibitor/retail vendors as members • Activate the Benefit Company Protocol • Review and update current benefit company agreements • Produce the 2017 NICA Business Expo/Fare Foods Food show in collaboration with Fare Foods: new reservation system, workshop offerings, propose fundraiser, evaluate event fee, design Wednesday general membership meeting and evening materials, write table top agreements Building Financial Stability Co-chairs: Jennifer Giordano, Sandy Class Agenda Reports are during April, August, and December When NICA Membership is growing, NICA’s Voice is respected in the Industry and NICA’s buying power is increasing the net profits of members, NICA will achieve annual financial stability by: Long-Term • Increasing revenue 5% a year by retaining and increasing membership, optimizing selling opportunities, soliciting benefit rebates, and holding fundraising events. • Managing expenses within the following formula: • 60% day to day operating expenses • 30% member / regional / educational events • 10% reserves Short-Term

• Increase Sysco gross purchases to 15M in 2016/17 Focus awareness and member usage on • Use resources of Source1 and Sysco to finalize benefits that both provide discounts to OpCo’s and Concessionaires Playbooks members and rebates to the organization • Sign up at least 50 members to the NICA Place a benefit story in every NICA News and/ Sysco Marketplace or NICA Now and all of them on the website • Reactivate the 501(c)3 NIC Foundation Survey NICA Membership annually on their • Choose one purpose/activity/campaign to be utilization of NICA benefits handled through the Foundation Compose a plan to engage more of our • Develop Sponsorship Protocol including members in using the NICA Sysco Marketplace category levels, items to be sponsored, and so as to reach 15 million in sales in this benefits of sponsorship season • Evaluate convention P/L’s and make Pursue regional and national benefits such as recommendations ▲ tires, phone, bread, etc.

Short-Term • • • •

•

June 2016 NICA News

As a trusted provider of concessionaires and vendor insurance, K&K is committed to helping you succeed by offering quality coverage and services designed for your organization. K&K’s expertise is respected throughout the industry; we are your solution for affordable insurance coverage. It’s easy to work with K&K—visit our website now for more information. • Apply and buy online • Competitive rates and coverage • Over 60 years of insurance and claims experience

June 2016 NICA News

Since 1947

Email us at customerservice@mrgsmeats.com or call 800-444-6747 to order samples. For 60 years we have offered only the highest quality meat products.

Our products are available from Fare Foods 800-651-1601

 Beef, Pork & Chicken Kabobs  Specialty Kabobs  Beef Philly Steak  Marinated Ribeyes & More! 725 Industrial Rd., Chillicothe, MO 64601

We put the

fu n

www.mrgsmeats.com

in funnel cake!

Custom Ingredients From TasteMaker/Reed Food Technology Specializing In: • Funnel Cake Mix • Corn Dog Mix • Batters & Breadings • Sauces

Proudly Distributed Through Fare Foods • Call 800-651-1601 For More Information • www.farefoods.com June 2016 NICA News

NEW FAIR STOCK PRODUCTS IN STOCK NOW. MADE IN THE USA. DISTRIBUTOR READY.

Weâ€™ve got what you want, when you need it. Are you looking for a quick and hassle free way to restock your fair products? Our high-quality, Made in the USA stock products are distributor ready and available for reorder with immediate shipping. To view all of our stock products or place an order, visit our website: www.whirleydrinkworks.com/NICA 24

June 2016 NICA News

NICA Approved Bottle

NICA is the Future Rey O’Day, Interim Executive Manager

This issue of NICA News is looking forward to our future—celebrating our college bound scholarship recipients, honoring a life well lived with future plans for a desert golf course, always recognizing the generational aspect of our membership, and committing to accomplish our 2016-17 Strategic Plans for NICA. Here is another way to build your future with a FREE Benefit. Signing up for the NICA Sysco Marketplace powered by Source1 Purchasing is FREE. And because it is a non-compliant agreement, you may participate in it at whatever level makes sense for your business. There are NO minimum guarantees that you must purchase. The program comes with rebates, manufacturing level deals, non-food deep discounts like FedEx, and a network that crosses the entire country. As a NICA Member and NICA Sysco Marketplace Member, you have another FREE Benefit: the Sysco Business Review. Are you looking for a new product? A new recipe? How about tightening down your costs? Call your local Sysco Sales Representative and ask for a Business Review and they will schedule one with their Chef. C & C Concessions recently participated in one and used the words “amazing” and “wonderful experience.” They were interested in trying out fish products and other menu items that complimented that menu. All seven of them

Generations of C & C Concessions at a FREE Sysco Business Review: John Giordano, Chef Martin Guzman, Jennifer and Ken Giordano, Chuck Giordano, Garrett and Coreana Giordano

were warmly greeted in the kitchen by Chef Kevin Cloud and the Master Associate Drew Ammerman. One by one they tasted fish, shrimp, and coleslaws, made tacos, tried different cabbage mixes, and compared dressings and recipes side by side. Basically, they brainstormed, tasted and decided with a Chef who made suggestions and did all the cooking. Ken Giordano commented, “They understood the taste side and the business side and accommodated us on both.” What that means is the session also provided product guides, specific comparison pricing, and a scale to measure portion sizes. They left knowing what they wanted to serve and were confident that it would both please their customers and be a good business decision. Jennifer Giordano observed, “they went all out for us…it was an over the top, very successful experience!” Use this FREE Benefit soon and BUILD YOUR FUTURE! ▲

“Announcements” continued from page 11 ►►

Nomination Applications are Now Being Processed Thank you to all who applied to become directors this year! We are currently reviewing your applications and will announce the nominees in our July 2016 issue. ▲

Directory Update Forms Mailing Out to Members It is that time of year again! Within the next month, the NICA Office will be sending out Directory Updates to you. The information that you will provide will be our guideline for creating your entry in the 2017 NICA Membership Directory. You will have until September 1, 2016 to send your updates via email to nica@nicainc. org, fax to (813) 438-8928, or mail to 1043 E. Brandon Blvd. Brandon, FL 33511. To reserve an ad in the directory, see page 31 for our ad insertion order or contact communications@nicainc.org for more information! ▲ June 2016 NICA News

“A Full House” continued from page 19 ►► He suggested to his friend, Pima County Fair CEO Jon Baker that a desert golf course be built on the back of the property where little fundraising tournaments could happen and where all Fair staff and participants could find some respite from the pace of the Fair. In 2015, Needham even took a shovel, and out of scrap around the Fair, put in three holes. Unexpectedly, in March he passed away due to complications from heart surgery. Jon knew some things about his friend: he loved being a Concessionaire, he enjoyed the comradery of attending the Arizona Fairs Association, he was committed to helping people, and he loved to play golf in flip flops on the desert. The question was how do we honor John’s legacy? Jon and Lisa knew what to do: build the Needham Hole #1, hold some fun events with good prizes each day like Hole-in-One and Closest-to-the-Pin and donate half the proceeds to the Arizona Fair Association to help fund the attendance of small Fairs at their educational events and the other half to NICA to help fund the

Needham’s Hole #1 Closest-to-the-Pin Winner Ashley Murray and Pima County Fair CEO Jon Baker.

futures of our college bound young people with scholarships. Oh, and remember our earlier winner, Justin Murray? Well, his Dad, and West Council Member, Ashley Murray won the Closest-to-the-Pin contest and his prize was a Titleist wedge, PROV1 golf balls, and miscellaneous golf accessories. (Definitively a day for the Murrays to go buy lottery tickets!) The Fair had a full house on the grounds, NICA had a full house event, and John had a full house at the Hole #1 golf tee. Oh yes, and Justin Murray became a NICA Member, too. ”Together We Can” all enjoy being winners! ▲

RIO SYRUP CO.

St. Louis, MO 63103 | 800-325-7666 | www.riosyrup.com Distributed through Fare Foods 1-800-651-1601

June 2016 NICA News

Call or E-Mail Us for your FREE 2015 Catalog Today!

www.BerkBrands.com

June 2016 NICA News

NICa WEst

10th Anniversary

SaN DiEgo Golf TourNamENt

Monday, June 20, 2016 at Lomas Santa Fe Country Club 11:30am: Registration • 12:00pm: Putting Contest • 1:00pm: Shotgun Start

REGISTRATION FORM

(One Form per Foursome)

Name:__________________________________________________ Phone:________________________________________ Address:________________________________________________________________________________________________

□

Sponsorship of Hole, Company Name:__________________________________________________________ $100 (Sign Included) Foursome Player Names:

□ □

_________________________________________ $125 _________________________________________ $125

□ □

_________________________________________ $125 _________________________________________ $125

DRESS: COLLARED SHIRT & NO JEANS • SEE YOU THERE!

Total Enclosed:______________

Contact Gary Barham at (619) 987-3049, Nate Janousek at (214) 403-0706, or Ashley Murray at (310) 316-7510

$125 PLAYER FEE Includes Green Fees, Golf Cart, Amenities, and Awards Dinner following Tournament

PRIZES 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place Winning Teams, Longest Drive, Closest to the Pin, and the $10,000 Hole in One!

Lomas Santa Fe Country Club 1505 Lomas Santa Fe Drive Solana Beach, CA 92075 (858) 755-6768

Drop Applications off at CHUCKWAGON during the San Diego County Fair, register online at www.nicainc.org OR send via mail to NICA West Golf Tournament, 2130 Walnut St., La Verne, CA 91752 no later than June 15, 2016.

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

▲

A year’s worth of advertising... At one low price!

Your ad in the 2017 NICA Membership Directory will put you and your business in front of Concessionaires, Fair Management, and more throughout 2017. See the Insertion Order to the right for details or contact us at (813) 438-8926!

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

WE DELIVER! We deliver to events on site in 44 different states and Canada. Customers value our friendly customer service and with our warehouses centrally located in Tampa, Florida and Southern Illinois they

Complete supply of all concession products! • Meats • Produce • Frozen Items • Dry Goods • Canned Goods • Paper Products • Fun Foods • Custom Printed Cups

appreciate consistent delivery of product

Call and Speak with a Customer Service Representative Today!

to their events throughout the year.

1-800-651-1601

COMPLETE SUPPLY OF ALL CONCESSION PRODUCTS! Meat

Produce

June 2016 NICA News

Frozen Items

Dry Goods

Canned Goods

Paper Products

Fun Food

Custom Printed Cups

NICA Membership Directory 2017 Annual Ad Insertion Order

Company Name: Contact Name: Bill to: Address: City:

State:

Phone:

E-Mail:

Zip:

Special Instructions:

When promoting your business with NICA, you... •

REACH YOUR Targeted AudiencE through national exposure to key decision makers.

•

GAIN Name recognitioN via our publications, website, and sponsorships available at industry events.

•

RECEIVE A superb Value through quality marketing opportunities,

Ad Rates per insertion

q Back Cover.............................$2,000* q Inside Front / Back Cover �� $1,500* q Full page: Color Tab............... $1,000* q Half page: Color Tab................. $600* q Full Page: B/W.............................$550 q Half Page: B/W............................$325 q Quarter Page: B/W......................$250 q Eighth Page: B/W........................$150 Rates valid through December 31, 2015

Color Cover, Tab & Ad Sizes

q Full Page Cover (Bleed)..... 6”w x 9”h* q Full Page Tab (Bleed)....5.25”w x 9”h* q Full Page Tab..............4.75”w x 8.5”h* q Half Page Tab ..........4.75”w x 4.25”h* Black & White Ad Sizes

q Full Page...................... 4.25”w x 7.5”h q Half Page (H)............. 4.25”w x 3.75”h q Half Page (V)............. 2.125”w x 7.5”h q Quarter Page (H)............ 4.25”w x 2”h q Quarter Page (V)..... 2.125”w x 3.75”h q Eighth Page (H).............. 4.25”w x 1”h q Eighth Page (V)........... 2.125” w x 2”h Please contact the NICA Office for more size information.

Premium Positions

* Subject to availability. If interested, contact us at (813) 438-8926 or graphics@nicainc.org

Ad Artwork Specifications • 300 DPI, CMYK Color, Flattened • Full page ads that fit the whole page must contain a 0.25” bleed. • Formats accepted: .pdf, .png, .jpg, • .jpeg, .tif, .tiff, .psd, .ai, .svg, .eps • Digital Ad Artwork may be emailed directly to graphics@nicainc.org or uploaded to our DropBox account.

Insertion Order & Ad Artwork Deadline September 1, 2016 For more information, please contact the NICA Office at (813) 438-8926 or email us at graphics@nicainc.org

Signature

Date

NICA, Inc. • 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 • Phone: (813) 438-8926 • Fax: (813) 438-8928 • www.nicainc.org

June 2016 NICA News

Sugardale Food Service is a leading provider of quality foods and customized product solutions since 1920.

800-860-3053

www.sugardalefoodservice.com

When you want extraordinary flavor and performance, serve Sugardale Food Service wieners. All Sugardale wiener items are Child Nutrition Certified.

Sugardale Food Service wieners, franks and coneys are available in many varieties, all delivering the same quality taste and nutrition you expect.

2016 Membership Contest Leaderboard* General Membership Vinnie Valentino....................................................................3 Etta Pence..............................................................................2 Jon Baker...............................................................................1 Jody Conklin..........................................................................1 Carmel Dyer-Pittroff..............................................................1 Stephanie Janousek.............................................................1 Larry McConnell, CCE............................................................1 Faith McGee...........................................................................1 Kevin McGrath, CCE..............................................................1 Janie Miller............................................................................1 Carol Sanders........................................................................1 Robert Santorelli...................................................................1 Jack Sturgeon.......................................................................1 Jack Woods, II.......................................................................1 Charles Zell, CCE...................................................................1

Northeast & West Councils Russ Harrison, CCE...............................................................3 Nate Janousek......................................................................2 Ashley Murray.......................................................................2 Kim Barr.................................................................................1 Dale Smith.............................................................................1 Lisa Thompson-Baker..........................................................1 Jay Wells................................................................................1

Board of Directors Kathy Ross............................................................................8 Dominic Palmieri...................................................................4 Sandy Class...........................................................................1 Jennifer Giordano..................................................................1 Dan Lusenhop.......................................................................1 Daryl Whicheloe, CCE............................................................1

Administration Office....................................................................................17

*See the back cover for rules and prizes

Advertise Your Business in

by calling the NICA Office today at (813) 438-8926, by emailing communications@nicainc.org, or by downloading the online Insertion Order at www.nicainc.org/pages/advertising. Contact us today to reserve your spot! June 2016 NICA News

2016 Events Calendar

Representing NICA & Its Industry Partners June

September

November

1: Board of Directors nominations due in office

1: Directory Advertising due in the office

20: 10th Annual NICA West Golf Tournament • Solana Beach, CA

5: Labor Day (Office Closed)

9-12: Rocky Mountain Association of Fairs Annual Convention • Spokane, WA

July 4: Independence Day (Office Closed) 15: Membership directory update forms sent to all members

August 15: Directory updates due in the office

June 2016 NICA News

30: Board of Directors election ballots due in the office

October 1: CCE Applications Due in the office 21-22: Oregon Fairs Association Convention • Albany, OR 26-28: Washington State Fairs Association Annual Convention • Vancouver, WA

9-12: Rocky Mountain Association of Fairs Annual Convention • Spokane, WA 14-18: IAAPA Attractions Expo 2016 • Orlando, FL 16-18: CAFE Annual Convention • Fredericton, NB 14-18: Dakota Fairs Annual Convention • Minot, ND 24: Thanksgiving (Office Closed) 11/27-12/1: 126th Annual IAFE Convention and Trade Show • Las Vegas, NV

For Office Use Only

National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc.

Date

1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 Office: 813-438-8926 • Fax: (813)438-8928 E-mail: nica@nicainc.org • Website: www.nicainc.org

NICA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION q Mr. q Mrs.

q Ms.

First

Last

Name of business Physical address Mailing address

City

Primary phone number

State

Zip

State

Zip

Alternate / Cell phone number

Website

How would you like to receive your NICA News? q Mail q Email Would you like to advertise? q Yes q No

Referred by

Fill out the information below as accurately and as detailed as possible. Information and Keywords provided below will be used for your entry in the NICA Annual Membership Directory and as keywords to search for your business on the NICA website.

Annual Membership Fees Independent Concessionaire

Associate

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

Fair / Festival over 75,000 attendance............................$125

Fair / Festival under 75,000 attendance...........................$75

q Employee................................................................................$50 q Retired....................................................................................$50

Manufacturer / Distributor / Industry Supplier..............$125

Carnival / Circus Operator..............................................................$125

Check a category below and provide a detailed description of your company’s services:

Special Services..................................................................$125

Stationary Concession......................................................$125

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

Voting:

Non-Voting:

q Commercial Exhibitors / Retail q Attractions / Entertainment q Services

q Food q Games

Description:

_________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________

Provide a detailed description of your organization / company’s services below: _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ Mail Check or Money Order to NICA’s office at 1043 E. Brandon Blvd. Brandon, FL 33511

Concessionaire General Routing Information

List all states where you conduct your concession business:

_________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ Fairs and Festivals

List three Fairs or Festivals worked in the past year :

1. _______________________________________________________ 2. _______________________________________________________ 3. _______________________________________________________

Visit our website for NICA Membership Benefits: www.nicainc.org I understand that my application is subject to final approval by the NICA Board of Directors. I also understand that if my application is not accepted, the amount paid will be refunded to me. If accepted for membership in NICA, I hereby agree to abide by its by-laws and rules.

Applicant’s signature

Date

Visa

Mastercard

American Express

Credit card no. Security Code

Expiration Date

TOTAL

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

National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc. 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 Time Sensitive Mail â€¢ June 2016 Issue

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