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National Independent Concessionaires Association

March 2013

CONTENTS MARCH 2013

FEATURES Celebrating 20 Years of NICA

NICA West Returns Energized

2013 NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods Food Show Photo Spread 17

Rey O'Day's take on the NICA-Sysco Food Show at the WFA Convention

Concessionaire of the Month Larry Boles, Southern Guild

Supplier of the Month Anchor Industries, Inc.

NEWS NICA 2013 Strategic Goals 4 President's Message 5 By Tom Sattler, CCE Executive Director's Report 5 By Alta Mosley 2013 Calendar 7 New Members 10 2013 Board of Directors 10 Hall of Fame Winners Announced 22 2013 Shrivel Bowl, Another Success 24 And the Work Continues 31 By Frank Parnell NICA at Gibtown 33

ADVERTISERS

Allied Specialty 23 Alpha Baking 23 A to Z Meats 30 Berk Paper & Supply 22 The Best Around 34 Coca-Cola 2 Fanestil Meats 29 Fare Foods 30 Fontanini Meats 12 Haas & Wilkerson Insurance 25

Heinkel’s Packing Co. 16 Midway Stainless 10 Mr. G’s Custom Meats 32 Rio Syrup 16 Swanel Beverages 12 WNA Specialty Cups 34

COVER PHOTO Taken at the Florida State Fair Tampa, FL February 2013

2013 Strategic Goals NICA - 2013 LONG TERM GOALS PROFESSIONAL VOICE IN INDUSTRY Because NICA desires to be recognized as a professional leader in the Event Industry it will: • Develop a trained national speakers bureau that will present meaningful and relevant topics to industry events. • Create a membership excellence program that measures the quality of operations by industry accepted standards, customer service, quality of product or service, overall presentation, operating procedures and observing safety standards. REVENUE STABILITY NICA will continue to achieve annual financial stability by increasing revenue by 5% a year, by retaining and increasing membership, optimizing selling opportunities and developing donations and grants while managing expenses within the following formula; 60% day to day operating expenses including the publication of the NICA News 30% member / regional / educational events 10% reserves BENEFITS Recognizing that member benefits are important to NICA for membership savings, and organization revenue, NICA will use the buying power of its membership to annually: • upgrade or obtain one new and unique benefit, • increase member usage of benefits by 20%, • increase rebates by 25% MEMBERSHIP NICA will become a strong organization throughout the US and Canada with programs to increase the inclusion of all members which will lead to increase of the membership annually through: • recruiting new membership with a focus in a geographic area where there is limited representation. • retention of current members • the establishment of regional councils that are responsive to regional issues. • Retention of current members

SHORT TERM GOALS TO BE COMPLETED BY APRIL 2013 SPEAKERS BUREAU • Pick speakers and train them • Provide information to Fair/Festival Associations about speakers available • Survey the membership for topics of interest • Train members to conduct focus groups to collect information from membership throughout the US and Canada MEMBERSHIP • Continue developing regional councils • Survey former members to determine why they left NICA • Continue conducting focus groups to determine members needs from NICA FINANCIAL STABILITY • Review membership dues structure • Publish stories about specific benefits used by the membership • Grow the 501(c)3 foundation under the NICA umbrella to enhance educational programs to be offered to the members and the industry and enable charitable fundraising. BENEFITS • Complete a survey of the membership on the use of benefits • Continue to explore a tire discount and wireless mobile discount benefit programs • Promote the new Speedway / Marathon / Pilot program

OFFICERS President......Tom Sattler, CCE 1st Vice-President......David Penn 2nd Vice-President....Joe Potillo, Jr. Secretary.....Rose Marie Ash Treasurer......Paulette Keene

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Greg Miller, CCE

Directors: Don Kenna Stacia Markowitz Tim O’Brien, CCE Justin Sattler Tony Trafton, CCE

Past President’s Council 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 Executive Director Alta Mosley - alta@nicainc.org

Office Manager Jill Omel - nica@nicainc.org

Graphics & Marketing Director Kaitlyn Loos - graphics@nicainc.org

NICA WEST Office: Executive Manager Rey O’Day imreyqoe@gmail.com 2130 Walnut St. La Verne, CA 91750

President’s Message

Tom Sattler, CCE

What a great start to the winter season with the NICA West Food Show and the combined NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods Food Show. Attendees at both shows were able to secure deals not available at any other time. These deals have helped us keep cost down and our businesses profitable. The Business Expo kept us up to date on industry news from trends to regulations and laws affecting this industry. The fundraisers for this year's events were well received. The Vegas-style Casino Night was one of the favorites. It included all the casino games from Blackjack and Texas Hold'em to Craps and slot machines. The best part was it was open to all ages from 1-99 so no one was left out. Our O'Brien Bowling Tournament was also a success. The most important part of all these events was the communication between the vendors, suppliers, fairs, carnivals and each other. It was great to see everyone talking and enjoying themselves. It was a great reminder that we are all in this together and if we each do a little, we can accomplish great things. As always remember " Together We Can "

Executive Director's Report Can you imagine walking in the door one hour before the gates open on one of your largest Fairs and wondering “how can I help and not get in the way”? Walking into a new position with NICA, with one of the largest events just one week away will certainly give you that feeling. Jill, Kaitlyn and SanDee did an amazing job, taking on the added responsibilities of preparing for the NICA Business Expo-Fare Foods Food Show along with setting up the NICA booth at Gibtown as well as handling their regular office responsibilities. Audrey Poole, with Fare Foods is a Show Manager that gives new meaning to the words “we’ve got that covered”. Many Thanks to Ron and Laura Porter for their continued partnership with NICA on this event as well being one of our major sponsors for Casino Night.

Alta Mosley

The Business Expo - Food Show is now over, everything is packed away waiting for the 2014 Show and we are beginning to settle in. I look forward to working with the NICA Board of Directors and our great office staff and volunteers. President Sattler has shared his goals for the upcoming year and asked for the Board’s thoughts on ways to promote our industry as well as creating awareness of how our members support the many communities they work in each year. Continued on next page>>

National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc. Dedicated to strengthening relationships with the Fair, Festival and Special Events Industries through effective communication, benefits, leadership and solutions.

NICA is a Florida Corporation with Editorial and General Office located at: 1043 E. Brandon Blvd. Brandon, FL 33511 (813) 438-8926 • Fax: (813) 438-8928 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 Copyright All Rights Reserved. ©NICA

We need your help to accomplish these goals. We encourage each of you to become more involved. In addition to sharing President Sattler’s goal, I will work to build a more open line of communication with you, our members. I welcome the opportunity to speak at State Associations on your behalf, to share your concerns and ask the questions that you want answers for like “what do I need to do to get into your Fair” and “how can we help promote the Fair” just to mention a few. Like you, I’d like to understand why some Fairs require such large deposits so far in advance while others require very minimal amounts. We all have our “hot buttons”. Mine are large deposits, 20 ounce bottles, overbooking products, and bad service at any level, be it the guest visiting the event, the person on the phone or the concessionaire waiting to get on location, getting into the campground and please don’t forget “when will the ELECTRICIAN be here”. Having been the General Manager of the Southwest Florida - Lee County Fair as well as serving as President of the St. Lucie County Fair Board, I look at these issues a bit differently and can offer you a different perspective, a new set of concerns. However you look at it, whatever part you play, here comes the real deal, “How do we all come to terms, equal terms?” How do we remove the barriers? How do we get past the term “you people”? The guests attending the Fair only know they came to the Fair. They came to enjoy the Fair, to be entertained, to forget for one night, all their problems. Two words, only two little words will be the key. You’ve heard them a million times before. COMMUNICATION and ATTITUDE I’ve heard it from every angle, the Livestock Department wants a larger budget because everybody comes for the Livestock Show, the Carnival wants a larger area because they want to bring more rides , Entertainment Department needs more money to bring bigger name artists for the concerts, and the list goes on. If we are to be heard and considered as professionals and a valuable part of the Fair, we must tell our story better. We must communicate and bring an attitude of partnership. Never doubt, it will be an uphill climb. Together we can make that climb, together we can make a difference. I am excited to be your Executive Director, I am here to serve you, to help you, I’ll listen to your concerns and most importantly, I will always be honest with you. My door is always open and my phone is on, call me anytime I can be of service to you. Travel Safe My Friends,

Alta Mosley

NICA Executive Regional Councils NICA WEST COUNCIL Don Delahoyde, CCE Jennifer Giordano Judy Henbury, CCE Lucky Henner Don Long, CCE Dan Lusenhop Dale Smith Tony Trafton, CCE

NICA State Representatives Duane Fischer Judi Gruver John Harkey David Higginbottom Charles Ivory Tom Kiermaier David Koepp Bruce Kozelou Stacia Markowitz Mike McGrath Kevin McGrath II Dannie Moreland Etta Pence, CCE David Spann Ed White

NICF Board Chuck Dugan Russ Harrison, CCE Lisa Hinton Donald Kenna SanDee O’Brien, CCE Olivia Orme Bill Wrabiutza

NICA 2013 Calendar MARCH

March 1-3: Combined IAFE Zone 3 and IAFE Zone 6 Meeting, Hyatt Regency, Louisville, Kentucky March 11-13: IAFE Spring Seminar, Midtown Holiday Inn, Grand Island, Nebraska March 23-25: IAFE Institute of Fair Management Summit, Ramada Inn, Rochester, Minnesota March 25-27: IAFE Zone 4 Annual Meeting, Ramada Inn, Rochester, Minnesota March 26: Miami Auction

APRIL

April 1: NICA Scholarship Applications due in the office. April 4-6: Mid-West Fairs Association Annual Convention, Renaissance World Golf Village Resort, St. Augustine, Florida (For Mid-West members and invited guests only.) April 18-20: IAFE Zone 1 Annual Meeting, Holiday Inn By the Bay, Portland, Maine April 25-28: IAFE Management Conference, West Palm Beach Marriott, West Palm Beach, Florida

MAY

May 16-18: Combined IAFE Zone 2 Meeting and Florida Federation of Fairs & Livestock Shows Inc. Annual Convention, Naples Grande Beach Resort, Naples, Florida May 17-19: Kentucky Association of Fairs Annual Spring Meeting, Barren River Lake State Park, Lucas, Kentucky

JUNE

June 1: NICA Board of Directors nominations due in office. June 25: NICA West Council nominations due.

JULY

July 15: NICA Board of Directors election ballots go out to voting members.

AUGUST

August 15: Directory Updates due in office.

SEPTEMBER

September 30: Board of Directors election ballots due in office.

OCTOBER

October 1: All Membership dues are to be paid. October 25-26: Manitoba Association of Ag Societies Annual Convention, Victoria Inn, Brandon, Manitoba

NOVEMBER

November 13-16: Rocky Mountain Association of Fairs Annual Convention, Parkway Plaza Hotel, Casper, Wyoming

DECEMBER

December 8-12: 123rd Annual IAFE Convention and Trade Show, Paris Hotel, Las Vegas, Nevada December 8-12: At the IAFE Convention - NICA Board Meeting, WIN Wine & Cheese, NICA President Elect Reception and Regional Meeting December 13-15: Association of Iowa Fairs Annual Convention, Airport Holiday Inn, Des Moines, Iowa

Celebrating 20 years of NICA NICA - An idea still growing strong after 20 years The National Independent Concessionaires Association was only a vague idea when Larry Orme and Gene O'Brien got together at the South Florida Fair in West Palm Beach, Florida in January 1993. The two men with 79 years of concession experience between them knew the many problems facing the industry. Yet, Gene and Larry, using all their resourcefulness and knowledge, had been unable to resolve the financial and regulatory problems facing their businesses. They also knew the independent, self-reliant nature of concessionaires as a group. The two men wondered if the time might be right to attempt to organize these bright, yet autonomous, businessmen. Gene O'Brien arranged for the meeting place at the Florida State Fairgrounds and for the printed materials for the meeting. Larry Orme offered to find out by placing an ad in the Amusement Business magazine announcing a meeting to be held in Tampa, Florida on February 10, 1993 with the express purpose of forming a concessionaires association. When the Florida State Fair began in February, Gene O'Brien, Larry Orme, Larry Sivori, Richard Wright and Kevin McGrath formed the five-member board. During the next seven days of endless meetings, discussions and arguments, the board began to form a collective mind regarding many issues. During one of these sessions the five directors agreed to ask Art Pokorny to serve due to his knowledge of fair management. NICA has contunued to grow over the past 20 years. Today the organization is over 1,000 strong and hosts a wide range of services and programs for our members. On the next page you will see NICA's first Newsletter, which was one page and printed in black and white. Each issue over the coming year of 2013 will continue to showcase NICA's history. We invite you to share your favorite stories and pictures that we may publish in the upcoming month's issues. Please send these items to Kaitlyn at graphics@nicainc.org and we thank you for your help in remembering this milestone year.

Order your custom collector basket today to celebrate NICAâ€™s 20th Anniversary! Call the NICA Office 813-438-8926 or visit nicainc.org

$40 8

Welcome New Members! Steck Johnson.........................Healthcare Solutions Team, TN Rick Pachell.............................Deluca Family Foods, OH Timothy Stewart .....................Cuzn Tim’s Seafood Shack, FL Jacqueline Bradbury ..............Sweet Cheeks, LLC, AZ Brian Bradbury ........................Sweet Cheeks, LLC, AZ Homer Price.............................HP Concessions, TX Chris Armstrong......................Scooter Concessions, IL Janet Jeffers...........................Southern Specialties, FL Dave Jaros...............................California Donuts, IN Jesse Greene ..........................Hot Wisconsin Cheese, FL Marty Pinson...........................Pinson Novelties, FL Phillip Laws.............................Sharonne’s Concessions, IL Marion Stephenson.................Duncan Concessions/ .Stephenson Family Concessions, IN Gib Gosser...............................Kentucky Association of Fairs & Horse Shows, KY Terry Hutchinson.....................T&M Concessions, OH Michelle German.....................Sterling Payment Technologies, FL Sharon Scott............................Old Friends Concessions, NC Janet Hill..................................Old Friends Concessions, NC Kenneth Giordano...................C&C Concessions, CA James Wright..........................Beaver Food Service, NC Jennifer Fraser........................Big Jim’s Concession, CA James Fraser...........................Big Jim’s Concession, CA Gordon Johnston....................G&T Concession, CA Robert Riggs............................Old Country Store/ Candyville, CA Donna Ruhm............................Del Mar Fairgrounds, CA Stacy Doane............................SS Doane, LLC/DBA Ponyespresso, CA Kelley Butler.............................Butler Amusements, CA Gena Tuttle..............................Butler Amusements, CA Susan Watkins.........................Watkins Event Service, CA Tony Guadagno.......................Carnival Midway, CA Nathan Marcus........................Steve’s Concessions, CA Tamara Quint...........................Butler Amusements, Inc., CA Patrick Sheridan......................CAS Concessions, TX

NICA Swears in 2013 Board of Directors

The new officers of the 2013 NICA Board of Directors were sworn in during Florida Week. The 2013 Board of Directors are as follows: President - Tom Sattler, CCE Immediate Past President - Greg Miller, CCE Vice President - David Penn 2nd Vice President - Joe Potillo, Jr. Treasurer - Paulette Keene Secretary - Rose Marie Ash Directors : Don Kenna Stacia Markowitz Tim O'Brien, CCE Justin Sattler Tony Trafton

We wish to congratulate newly elected director Stacia Markowitz of Mike's Concessions. Congratulations also to those elected to their 2nd term: David Penn of Family Foods, Vice President, and Justin Sattler of Sattler Concessions, Director.

In the NICA Community NICA’S 2013 SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

is taking applications! A total of $8,000 dollars will be awarded! Applications are due at the NICA office by April 1, 2013!! So don’t delay.... Applications can be found at www.nicainc.org. Click on Scholarships to find more information on the program and to download the application today! Please call the NICA office for more information or to request an application be sent to you. 813-438-8926 or email: nica@nicainc.org ■

Trade Show: Bob Bassett, Donna Del Rosso , and David Koretsky

NICA West Returns Energized! by: Rey O'Day Arriving @ Reno Airport: Mike Peterson, Rey O’Day, Jennifer Giordano, Dale & Cie Smith, Sherry Flores & Scott Shacklett

Sysco Sales Team ready to help!

NICA had a strong presence at the Western Fairs Association Convention held in Reno, NV from January 20— 24, 2013. We were proud to support our sister organization in this well presented and well attended event. A few drove up to this winter wonderland and the rest of us had to wait for “freezing fog” to burn off so we could arrive. First item of business was to unload, set up booths, hug old friends, and get organized for the many events ahead of us. Big thanks to Lucky Henner for making sure everything arrived in Reno on time. One of our benefit companies, Asset Preservation, and several of our NICA members participated in the opening workshop “What is your Exit Strategy?” After many weeks of emails, conference calls, and planning, the NICA Sysco Marketplace team met face to face for the first time on Sunday afternoon. The leaders from Sysco, Entegra, Source1 Purchasing, and the NICA West Council set our priorities for signing folks up to participate in the NICA Sysco Marketplace master distribution agreement’s purchasing power, manufacturer deviations, and rebates provided by Source1 Purchasing and Entergra. Besides converting many current NICA members, it meant signing up sixteen new NICA members. Thank you to NICA Board member, David Penn for sending them to the office. The NICA Sysco Marketplace was a-buzz with food, activity and sales going on in 22 booths. Participants included Advance Pierre, Asset Preservation, Sierra

NICA Appreciation Reception: Gift Basket Winners: Sharla Zachary and Teresa Brander

Workshop Group

Nevada, Con Agra, Vienna Beef, Woody’z, Cargill, Sun Rich, Koch, McCain, Farmland, Fresh Point, Sanderson Farms, Lamb Weston, Whirley DrinkWorks, and of course Sysco, Source1 Purchasing, and Entegra. Whirely DrinkWorks introduced the new cup design for our refill drink program. Distribution is through Sysco and a part of the proceeds benefit both the NICA and WFA scholarship programs. The NICA West Council hosted our NICA Appreciation Reception which was attended by well over 150 friends. The food was provided by Sysco Corporate and Sysco Sacramento with the bar being sponsored in part by Don Delahoyde, last year's WFA President and NICA West Council Member. Judy Henbury made and donated two gift baskets that were given away to Teresa Brander and Sharla Zachary. Tim O’Brien had the winning ticket for the vacation week in Maui! As a result of the Best Practices session Rey O’Day presented at last year’s convention, a WFA Industry Standards committee has been formed. That committee decided to begin “constructive conversation” between fairs and concession owners by holding a meeting where five Food and Beverage Managers from large fairs brought a discussion question. Donna Ruhm, San Diego Concessions Manager and new NICA member, moderated this enormously successful and lively dialogue that included looking at developing a shared auditing system, designing a collective online application, and ways to motivate upselling.

NICA Wine servers: Cie & Dale Smith, Jennifer Giordano 13

Grand Sierra Resort Butcher Shop

On Tuesday Rey presented her second installment on Industry Best Practices which included an emphasis on The Golden Rule, the importance of patrons, community, respect, open and honest communication, business-like conduct, accountability and commitment to improving our Industry. We are all members of associations in our personal and work communities. Here is a poem she shared about the duty of membership that came to her from Dominic Palmieri. This poem appeared on Page 4 of the September/October 1952 issue of White Tops. Are you an active member The kind that's liked so well; Or, are you just contented With the button in your lapel? Do you attend the meetings And mingle with the flock; Or, do you stay at home And criticize and knock? Do you take an active part To help the work along; Or, are you satisfied to be The kind that just belongs? Do you push the cause along And make things really tick; Or, leave the work to just a few And talk about the clique? Come to the meetings often And help with hand and heart. Don't be just a member But take an active part. -Author Unknown

Duke Dirksmeyer, Sysco-Houston, Roger Sharp, Garlicky’s, 14and Mike Holcomb, Meat Specialist Job Well Done!!

Grand Sierra Resort Kitchen Tour with Executive Chef Jerry Ignatich

any kitchen must have an accountable inventory system in place. He also discussed ways to streamline food production. Chef Dave Holman suggested “if you want a juicy, tender steak; bring it to room temperature before you cook it.” The tour ended in the Butcher Shop where the hind half of a steer was Bright and early Wednesday morning broken down into the protein cuts that 62 people showed up for the NICAare served at the fair, including ribs, Sysco “Power of Protein” educational brisket and tri-tip with a discussion session sponsored by Garlicky’s, one about how and what other products of many food concepts produced by Roger Sharp. Mark Goldrainer, Advance could be served to our protein loving Pierre Foods, opened the session with Fairgoers. University of Nevada Meat a PowerPoint presentation, “Mitigating Specialist, Mike Holcomb sawed, cut and trimmed while Sysco Protein Rising Protein Costs.” It suggested Specialist Duke Dirksmeyer explained regional favorites, different cooking methods, portion control, and different the intricacies of beef. It was an ways to use the same product. He also incredibly informative and dynamic show. Teresa and Rich Brander agreed showed cost comparisons on beef, it was their favorite session of the poultry, and pork products. convention! A big shout out to Mark Neagles, Sysco Director of Business Next, High Sierra Chef of the Year, Development for making this event Executive Chef Jerry Ignatich, greeted happen. us. Then he and his staff toured us through his 30,000 square feet of The evening appropriately ended with kitchen. He shared that they use 1.3 million eggs annually, his power bill is the awards banquet that celebrates our community and its annual approximately $700,000, and serving accomplishments. Once again a a 2500 catered meal takes 10 people to prepare and 40 people to plate it. testament to “Together We Can!”■ He shared why “yield” from products is the key to cost savings, and that Tuesday evening NICA West was a sponsor of the Wine and Cheese Reception where Dale and Cie Smith, Jennifer Giordano, and Judy Henbury poured wine for the guests. Slides of NICA activities were part of a sponsor slide show.

Grand Sierra Resort Bakery

Don Delahoyde, NICA West Council, at the NICA Appreciation Reception

The â€œGet- R- Done Ladiesâ€? Amy Davis Smith, Sysco; Molly Fierro, Source1 Purchasing; Bernadette Bujanowski, Sysco

Charlie Conarro, Whirley DrinkWorks and Bernadette Bujanowski, Sysco

Andy Steinfeldt, Everfresh; Marilyn and Dave Wellmon

Molly Fierro, Source1 and David Penn, NICA Board of Directors

Workshop Group, and a hello from Dominic Palmieri!

Rick Pickering, Incoming CA State Fair CEO and Norb Bartosik, Retiring CA State Fair CEO

Don Long, Resting up for the next event

Ryan Long, Been a Late Night

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The 2013 NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods Food Show

into

Food Show Ribbon Cutting

Back Row: Don Kenna, David Penn, Joe Potillo, Jr, Paulette Keene, Greg Miller, CCE, Tom Sattler, CCE, and Justin Sattler Front row: Kaitlyn Loos, Rob Porter, Laura Porter, Rosie Ash, Alta Mosley, Audrey Poole, and Jill Omel.

February 4th - 6th at the USF Embassy Suites, Tampa, FL

Many Thanks to Our Sponsors! Diamond Sponsors Coca-Cola Refreshments Platinum Sponsors Mr. G’s Quality Cut Meats • Berk Enterprises, Inc. Gold Sponsors A to Z Meats • Allied Specialty Insurance Alpha Baking • WNA, Inc. • Fanestil’s Quality Meats Fontanini/Capital Wholesale Meats • Heinkel’s Packing Co. Rio Syrup Company, Inc. • Swanel Beverage Co. Silver Sponsors Lasco Foods • Brakebush Brothers, Inc. Osage Marketing • R3 – Reliable Redistribution Resource Resolve Sales & Marketing Bronze Sponsors Bunge Oil • Corfu Foods • Cusamano & Sons Valley Meats, LLC • Perfect Stix • Sugardale Food Service Taste Maker Foods • RJ Schinner

Super Bowl Sponsors Pierce Chicken • Sugardale Food Service Fontanini/Capital Wholesale Meats Golf Cart Giveaway Sponsor Allied Specialty Insurance Educational Workshop Sponsors Fare Foods • Haas & Wilkerson Insurance TAPS, Fred Simcic • Carousel Foods - Olivia Orme Concessions by Cox • Jim & Sissi La Fratta The Best Around, The McGraths • SanDee O’Brien Pence’s Caramel Corn, LLC, Mike, Etta, Kevin, & Leslie Pence Art & Barb Pokorny Casino Night Sponsors Event Sponsor- Schantz Manufacturing Food Sponsor- Fare Foods Bob & Rosie Ash • The O'Brien Family Family Foods • Marathon Homes McKinney Food Services • Paulette's Food Service Victor Products Corp. • Waymatic Inc.

Mr. G's Quality Meats

Ollie & Frank Parnell with friends Audrey Poole visiting Brakebush Brothers

Fairs, Concessionaires, and Community Involvement

A to Z Meats

Rio Syrup

Allied Specialty Insurance Fare Foods Team

Labor Issues Workshop

James Tea Company

Lee & Lee Schantzenbach, Jr.

WNA

NICA Reps Helping New Members Sign Up Fontanini Meats

Sugardale Berk Enterprises

NICA Visiting Sippers by Design

The IISF Cusamano & Sons

Alpha Baking T.A.P.S.

Heinkel's Packing Co, Inc

Purnell Sausage Company

Coca-Cola Swanel Beverage, Inc.

Purnell Sausage Company Fanestil's Quality Meats

Greg Miller, CCE with his wife, Janey Firestone Financial

The Schantzenbach family with their new golf cart!

Frank Parnell with one of the raffle finalists Justin Carlson from Asset Preservation won $500 from the 50/50 Raffle

Lee Schantzenbach, from Lil Nutzy, won the Golf Cart Raffle sponsored by Allied Specialty Insurance. Pictured with Tom Sattler, CCE and his good luck charm, Lee, Jr.

The McGrath Family accepting Hall of Fame Award

SanDee O'Brien with Etta Pence

Leslie Pence, Etta Pence, Gayle McGrath, and Janey Miller at the WIN Luncheon

Fare Foods ladies at the WIN Luncheon

WIN Treats

Lisa Hinton, from the Florida Federation of Fairs and Livestock Shows, with Alta Mosley

Audrey Poole, Heather Sattler, WIN Chairperson, and Laura Porter

WIN Ladies

Greg Miller, CCE at the General Membership Meeting Coca-Cola Drawings at the General Membership Meeting

Art Pokorny's Hall of Fame Induction Speech for the McGraths

Marlene Pierson-Joliffe, CFE speaking at the General Membership Meeting Tom Sattler, CCE speaking at the General Membership Meeting

Joe Potillo, Jr. speaking at the General Membership Meeting

Jim Tucker, IAFE President, speaking at the General Membership Meeting The Passing of the Gavel

Tom Sattler, CCE speaking at the General Membership Meeting

Tim O'Brien with a lucky ticket

Casino Night Fundraiser! Rosie Ash at the slots

Paulette Keene at the slot machines

Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, a big winner of the night with George Wandrey, Jr.

Tony Trafton, CCE throwing the dice!

Hall of Fame Winners Announced Art Pokorny made the presentation of the 2013 NICA Hall of Fame Award to Kevin and Gayle McGrath. "I met Kevin twenty years ago and quickly learned he has an opinion about everything...and he isn't afraid to express his opinion!" Art continued, "but what I also came to realize is that both Kevin and Gayle always strive to improve this industry for ALL of us".

Submitted by Linda Comer, Former NICA Executive Director

Kevin served on the first Board of Directors. Gayle was the first editor and publisher of Nica News and later served as a director and officer as well. They are both lifetime members of NICA and have both attained the designation of Certified Concessionaire Executive. Following Pokorny's announcement, the audience was entertained with a photo presentation depicting the changes in the McGrath family and their family business 'The Best Around'. Photos from the late 1970's, specifically those of their first days as concessionaire, brought a hearty round of laughter. Pokorny ended his presentation by reminding everyone of the first recipient of the Hall of Fame Award, Gene O'Obrien. Art stated that he was sure Gene (wearing a green shirt) was looking down and saying, "Well done Kevin and Gayle"!â–

Gayle, Linda, and Kevin at the 2013 NICA General Membership Meeting, Wednesday February 6th.

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NICA's Annual

SHRIVEL BOWL is Another Success!

The 2013 Shrivel Bowl during the South Florida Fair was another fun-filled fundraising event for NICA. Over 140 bowlers participated in the event with over $1,000 given out in prizes. By the end of the evening everyone went home with a smile on their face. Once again, Mike Broad of Broad Concessions did a phenomenal job of coordinating the food for the event. If you see Mike during your route, please give him a special “thank you” for all his efforts. The Shrivel Bowl committee thanks these food contributors: Bianco’s Fine Foods Gabby’s Famous Kitchens Broad Concessions Cheney Brothers

Porky’s Griff’s Pizza Silver Dollar Bakery

Major sponsorship contributors included: Bianco’s Fine Foods Sivori Catering Butcher Boys George’s Fun Foods K & R Concessions Tiki Tea Huts

Wild Bill’s Curly Fries Miller Concessions Hot Wisconsin Cheese Parnell’s Elephant Ears South Florida Fair

Plus there were other concessionaires and commercial exhibitors who contributed draw prizes for the entertaining evening. Of course the volunteers who contribute to the success of the event are many. Ruth Sivori with her new assistant Janey Miller handled the admissions. Dan and Sheila Wilson operated the raffle board for the 2014 South Florida Fair campsite and the Mini Ipad raffle. Janie Harris ran the tip boards. Greg Miller contributed as prize coordinator, announcer, and photographer. Larry Sivori acting as the overseer so everything was smooth sailing. Everyone is looking forward to a successful 2014 Shrivel Bowl. As Frank looking down would say, “ahh you guys”.■

LARRY BOLES of Southern Guild HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A CONCESSIONAIRE AND A NICA MEMBER? This is my 30th year in the business. I signed up at the first NICA meeting in Tampa WHAT’S THE FIRST THING YOU REMEMBER ABOUT NICA? The concepts presented at the meeting. Having a voice for concessionaires was much needed. HOW AND WHY DID YOU GET IN TO THE CONCESSION BUSINESS? After visiting a home show in 1981 I decided I wanted to become a concessionaire. I put my concrete statue business up for sale. But what could I sell at the fair? After checking out the business for a year, I settled on a new product by Dole, Dole Pineapple Whip. I remembered my mother buying a Pineapple Whip cone for me at the Indiana State Fair when I was four or five years old. After checking out different ice cream stands it came to me: why not build a giant pineapple to sell pineapple whip out of? With a drawing in hand, I met with 5 or 6 fairs to see what they thought of it. All of them including the Florida State Fair and Indiana State Fair said “If you build it, we will book it!” Now what was I going to do? Well…I went to work building an 18ft tall Pineapple. Six months later, to my surprise, my vision had come to life! So as they say, “Last year I couldn’t spell concessionaire and now I are one.” It was such a big hit that two years later I decided to build a big strawberry. It is now the largest strawberry in the Florida Strawberry Festival. Now I’ve added two large root beer barrels and a large Coke can to the collection. Our name should be “Unique Concessions”

Tammy Eversole and Larry Boles

IF YOU WEREN’T A CONCESSIONAIRE, WHAT WOULD YOU BE? Selling something. WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT BEING A CONCESSIONAIRE? Many things; the independence, the free time between events, the people that run the events, my employees and the many friends I have made along the way. WHAT’S YOUR BEST SELLING FOOD ITEM? Our root beer and our tropical drink we call “the Bomb.” WHAT’S SOMETHING PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU OR SOUTHERN GUILD? The name does not reflect what we have or sell. Our stands are very unique and we sell Doc’s Old Fashioned Root Beer, Dole Tropical Drinks, and soft serve ice cream.

HOW HAS THE CONCESSION BUSINESS CHANGED SINCE YOU FIRST STARTED OUT? WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU WISH WOULD CHANGE? The biggest change since I started has been the increase in quality and cost of the concession stands. Inflation, cost of supplies, and rent are the biggest enemy and there’s not much we can do about that. WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER? The fairgoers that come to my stands year after year. Many have come every year for more than twenty years. Then there are great relationship people like Bruce Sigman of the Indiana State Fair, Cindy Bellew of the Georgia National Fair, and Ellany Johnson of the Florida Strawberry Festival.

WHAT’S THE FUNNIEST THING THAT HAS HAPPENED IN YOUR CONCESSION CAREER? Too many WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME? Ocean sailing WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT NICA? The high standards they have set for the industry. WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU’RE LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS YEAR? Getting the season started, I love this business. ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE WITH NICA MEMBERS? Always sell high quality products and charge a reasonable price. If you take care of your business and your business will take care of you. ■

SUPPLIER OF THE MONTH:

Anchor Industries, Inc. GIVE US A LITTLE HISTORY ON ANCHOR INDUSTRIES, INC.: Anchor was established in 1892 selling tarps, ropes and anchors to the Riverboats that traveled in the Ohio river. At the turn of the Century, Anchor was involved in providing Tents for Carnivals and Campers to travel down the road before there were RV's. We were also in the manufactured awnings for homes before there was air conditioning to keep homes cool in the summer. Tents were also made for Circus, Tent Rental, Roller Rinks, Food booths, Game booths, and rides. Anchor now manufactures Pool Covers, Large Frame Clearspan Buildings, Tension Tents, and more. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A NICA MEMBER & HOW HAS IT INFLUENCED YOUR BUSINESS? Anchor was one of the first manufacturers to join and have been a member ever since. It has allowed us to stay in touch and support the concessionaires that use a wide variety of our tent and frame products. WHAT'S YOUR MOST POPULAR PRODUCT? For the food concessionaire and the game business, it would be our Century Top and Frame. WHAT'S YOUR BUSIEST TIME OF THE YEAR? From January through August. WHAT'S THE BEST PART ABOUT YOUR JOB? Being a supplier to the Outdoor Amusement Industry with the many products we make. To know that our customers use our products to feed, provide rides, entertain, and play games to their customers. WHAT'S SOMETHING YOU'RE LOOKING MOST FORWARD TO THIS YEAR? Seeing customers at Gibtown and NICA. Talking to customers about their year and how we can help them in their business. WHAT'S SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON'T KNOW ABOUT ANCHOR INDUSTRIES, INC.? We made a U.S. Flag that was as big as a football field to be hung on a bridge in New York.

HOW HAS THE BUSINESS CHANGED SINCE YOU FIRST STARTED? When I started, their were no cell phones, internet, faxes, etc. The only way to contact customers that traveled was to wait for them to call from a cell phone. Also, deposits were mailed in because credit cards were not used as much as they are today. Anchor made a lot more game tops because trailers were not as prevalent. WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT NICA? The level of support provided for the members and the suppliers. ARE YOU COMING TO THE UPCOMING FARE FOODS FOOD SHOW IN TAMPA? I will be there to visit. IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE WITH NICA MEMBERS? That together we can make the industry a better place to make our living and have some fun along the way. Dan Seeber, Manager Anchor Industries Inc Custom Products Division 800-322-8368

And the Work Continues... This past weekend, Jan.17, 18, and 19, I had the privilege of attending the Illinois Fair Convention (IAAF) in Springfield, IL. I debated with myself about going, because after all it was 1100 miles and the price of fuel isn’t exactly at bargain basement levels, and I really had no agenda, but the allure of seeing old friends was just too strong, so off I go. You know, maybe I should stop calling them old friends, because I’m as old or older than they are, so maybe I should refer to them as something else in order to protect my own ego, but nonetheless it was great to see them. As soon as I walked through the door of the Crown Plaza Hotel, I knew I had made the right decision, the warmth and hospitality of my friends was overwhelming. As at all state conventions, the Queen competition was in full swing, but I had to leave before the winner was chosen, but from what I saw there were no losers, only winners. Beautiful young

David Spann, Paulette Keene, and Charlyn Fargo with Marvin Purzee

David Spann, Margaret Vaughn, and Paulette Keene

by Frank Parnell

ladies, one and all. The convention floor was a flurry of activity and very interesting with a lot to see. One interesting and funny side note, I was visiting with Dan Barth, an old friend for many years, who has a wonderful Medicine Man show, and Dan was reminiscing about years past and lamenting about how old he was getting. He told me he was going to be a certain age in June and he was feeling like he was getting pretty old until I told him I would be that age in May. Oh well, I guess misery loves company, anyway Happy Birthday Dan, even though it is a little early. I had the opportunity to hear a legislative report given by Marvin Purzee of the Iroquois County Fair. Marvin, for quite some time has taken a leadership role in the effort to promote a bill in the IL. Legislature to allow land based gaming as well as riverboat gaming. If this bill is approved, FIVE MILLION dollars annually will be allocated to county fairs, dollars that are sorely needed to ensure the continued success of all IL. County fairs. This bill has passed the House and Senate, and is on the Governor’s desk awaiting his signature, which for some reason he has yet to sign, so the work must continue on this important issue. The legislative committee has retained the services once again of Margaret Vaughn, a very competent political lobbyist, to lobby on their behalf. As in everything all this requires funding, so if you live in or do business in IL, I believe it would be in your best interest to support this effort in any way you can. For many years now the IL Fair Association has presented the “Friends of the Fair” award to a person or persons who has supported the fairs in various ways, be it service, dedication, loyalty or commitment. This year's awards went to George Pollock of the Schyler Co. Fair in Rushville, IL. This was George’s 53rd year to attend this convention and support IL fairs. Next, were Jack and Laurel Radcliffe of the Boone Co. Fair. Jack has served on the fair board for 39 years and it has been my pleasure to know Jack for 30 of those, congratulations Jack. John Thomson has printed the association’s magazine, ’TENT TALK’, for 25 years and has always done an outstanding job. Bill and Linda McKinney, Mc Kinney Food Service of Hughes Springs Texas, has been a part of IL Fairs for over fifty years, serving not only great food, but serving the fairs in any way they could to better them and to insure a good experience for the fair patron. Unfortunately due to illness, the McKinney’s were unable to attend the convention, however thanks to modern technology and Ed Dame of North American Midway Entertainment who knew how to operate the computer and skype, we were able to present the award with both the McKinney’s and the audience interacting. It was my honor to accept the award on behalf of the McKinneys from Mr. Robert “Bob’Flider, Director of Agriculture for the state of IL and Mr. Jeff Blomsness of North American Midway Continued on Next Page ►►

(Continued from p.25 “And the Work Continues”...) Entertainment, sponsor of the award. Congratulations to all the recipients, you are all very deserving.

Linda and Bill McKinney via Skype receiving their award in Springfield, IL. In front: Robert Flider, Director of Agriculture, Frank Parnell, and Jeff Blomsness, from North American Midway Entertainment

Purchase Your Fundraising Deck of Cards Today! 32

A photo of myself and Director Flider and Jeff Blomsness, standing in front of a screen with Bill and Linda’s image on it looked almost like a hologram. What a cool shot, sometimes we get lucky without even trying. I thought I had covered the convention pretty well and had all the material I needed to make my report, and then I accidentally overheard a conversation about a trip to Newtown, Connecticut, that I knew needed to be told, so if you will, stay tuned for the April issue, because the work continues.■ Frank

$10 per deck! To get your WIN Cards now, contact the NICA office (813) 438-8926

Thank You

Sponsors! For a Successful O’Brien Bowling Tournament! Bob & Rosie Ash The O’Brien Family Family Foods Marathon Homes McKinney Food Services Paulette’s Food Service Victor Products Corp. Waymatic Inc.

In the Next issue... More from Frank Parnell The O'Brien Bowling Tournament Strikes Success! Photos from the Florida State Fair And more!

The 2013 NICA Board of Directors · David Belcher Bianco’s Foods · Erma’s Sweet Rolls The Florida Blueberry Festival · Richie George Jim & Sissi La Fratta · Mike & Stacia Markowitz Mr. Munchie’s Fun Food · Frank & Ollie Parnell Ralph Pressy · Scooter Ryals · Ted Wentz

Coming in April 2013

NICA at Gibtown! From left to right:

1. Leslie Pence, Paulette Keene, Norm Keene, Dedee Harrison , Mike & Etta Pence. 2. Jill, Tammy, Michael, and Kylie Omel after setting up the booth. 3. Jim Sinclair, Adam Heffron, Jessica Castro, and Rick Frenette

Membership Contest 2012 General Membership Heather Sattler.................................3 Randy Reichert.................................1 Russ Harrison...................................1 Sharonne Laws................................1 Doug Guinsler..................................1 Janet Hill...........................................1 Mike Beaver.....................................1 Judy Henbury...................................1 Jennifer Giordano.............................1 Mark Neagles...................................2 David Koretsky.................................1 Sysco................................................1 Lucky Henner...................................1 Fare Foods.......................................2

NICA Rep Dannie Moreland..............................4

Board of Directors Greg Miller........................................1 David Penn.......................................1 Tony Trafton......................................2

Administration Office................................................4 Rey O'Day........................................1

PRIZES

* Carnival Cruise Package - (valued over $1500) a drawing will be held for all the members who refer new/former members in 2013. For every new/former member referred, the recruiting member will receive 1 chance to win the Carnival Cruise. * $500 Cash - For every new/former member referred, the recruiting member will receive 1 chance to win the $500. * NICA National Rep Contest - Winner will receive $500 cash and is eligible to win any of the above-mentioned prizes. Drawings to be held in Tampa, Florida in February 2014.

National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc.

Date

1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 (O) 813-438-8926 • (F) 813-438-8928 email: nica@nicainc.org • www.nicainc.org

For Office Use Only

NICA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION q Mr. q Mrs. q Ms.

First Last

Name of business Physical address

City

State

Zip

Mailing address

City

State

Zip

Permanent tel. no. (

)

Fax no.

Cell phone no. ( E-mail

Paperless: q Yes q No

) Website

I agree to get my renewal invoices sent by email. Please provide email address. Referred by

Please fill out the below information as ACCURATELY and DETAILED as possible. INFORMATION and KEY WORDS provided below will be used for your entry in the NICA Annual Membership Directory as well used as key words to search for your business on the NICA website.

Annual Membership Fees INDEPENDENT CONCESSIONAIRE Voting membership available to any person who is an independent concessionaire.

q New NICA Members.......................... ........................$125 q Spousal member.........................................................$75 q Employee (non-voting).................................................$50

Please check a category below and provide a detailed description of the services your company provides. q Commercial exhibits q Food q Games q Retail q Attractions/Entertainment _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ Concessionaire General Routing Information

Please list all states where you conduct your concession business.

_________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ Mail Check or Money Order to NICA at 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 q Visa q Mastercard q American Express

ASSOCIATE

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

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

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

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

Carnival Operator..........................................................$125

Please provide a detailed description of the services your organization/company provides. _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________

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.

Credit card no. Security Code

Expiration Date

Applicant’s signature

Date

Spousal signature

Date

TOTAL:__________________ (spousal signature required when both are joining)

Signature of credit card holder The NICA sponsored $10,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance Policy is automatically provided to all Independent Concessionaire Members.

Spouse’s first name

Spouse’s last name (please print)

NICA News

National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc. 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 Time Sensitive Mail ~ March 2013 Issue

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