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Contents • March 2016 FEATURES
08 More Huge Savings For NICA Members 10 2016 NICA Scholarship Program 09 Member’s Voice 11 Association Announcements Sharon Powell, SPR Enterprises, Inc. / Sharyn’s 13 NICA at the NYSAAF Convention Fine Foods; Steve Taft, Taft’s Mr. Ribeye; Stephanie Janousek, Fun Biz Concessions, Inc.; 18 NICA Sysco Marketplace Is Fired Up at Shelia Bartlebaugh, Bartlebaugh Amusements; the WFA Convention 12 Thoughts from a CCE 21 Over 3600 Rounds Of Ammunition Gayle McGrath, CCE, The Best Around; Kicked Off the Fair Partner’s Shootout Kevin McGrath, CCE, The Best Around 22 A Successful 2016 Han Wang Bowl 14 Concessionaire of the Month Don Delahoyde, CCE, Five Star Catering
Activities & Events 07 Hidden Object Contest 29 Coca-Cola Membership Contest January Leaderboard 30 2016 Calendar of Events
AdvertiSers News & Articles 04 New & Renewing Members 05 President’s Message Paulette Keene
05 Director’s Voice Kathy Ross
07 Office Update
20 A to Z Meats 11 Allied Specialty Insurance 28 Alpha Baking 28 Berk Concession Supply 17 FCI / Heritage Insurance 16 Fanestil 02 Fare Foods 26 Fontanini 29 Haas & Wilkerson
06 Heinkel’s 28 Mr. G’s 27 Pepsi 24 Source1 Purchasing / Sysco 30 RIO Syrup 13 Sippers by Design 17 Swanel Beverage 23 THE Insurance 10 Tastemaker 24 Tyson 16 WNA
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 great start to your season! March 2016 NICA News
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This Month’s Newest Members! Bary Bunts The Apple Cart, LLC, OH Joe Cetor Forever Concession Trailers LLC, OH Nancy Chapman Chapman Fashion International, CA Michael Chow Egg Roll on a Stick, Inc., CA
Guy Leavitt Celeste Conley Conley's Bacon Rinds, MO Ray Cammack Shows, Inc., AZ Kenneth Conley
Conley’s Bacon Rinds, MO Jody Lopez Lopez Concessions, LLC, Travis Downs AZ Downs Concessions, OH John Fish Ginocchio's Concessions, KY Suzanne Haas UMS Banking, CA
James McConnell James McConnell Concessions, IA
Brad Morris Family Fun Foods, IL
Jim Nucci Nucci's, AR Nate Peachey The Amish Baking Company, FL Terri Shell T N T Concessions, IA Lance Sturgeon Jack's Shack, FL Welcome to our 17 new members!
This Month’s Member Renewals William Baldwin, Sr. D B Food Concessions, LLC, NJ (1994) Brian Bradbury Sweet Cheeks, LLC, AZ (2013) Jacqueline Bradbury Sweet Cheeks, LLC, AZ (2013) Tony Cassata Cassata Concessions, FL (2015) John Christopher Wild Goose Concessions, OK (2002) Nancy Connors Cinnamon Station, LLC, IL (2012) Terri Crutchfield Terri’s Berries Inc., CA (2014) David Daggett K’s Koncessions, LLC, VA (2013) Allan Dennis Allan Dennis Concessions, Inc, TX (2014)
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March 2016 NICA News
Shane DeVooght Superior Land Concessions, FL (2011) Stacy Doane SS Doane LLC dba Pony Espresso, CA (2015) Mark Hill, CCE Goldmark Concessions, CA (2012) Scottie Jeter Malone’s Taffy, IL (2014) Rick Kasinak Pacific Coast Concession, CA (2012) Michael Kennedy, CCE Old Time Saltwater Taffy, FL (2014) Todd Lavigne Fair Pair Concessions, CT (2014) Michael Linville C & M Enterprises, IN (2004) Karen Marshall Russell Foods, TX (2015)
Kelly McDonagh Big Rock Amusements, MI (2011)
Patrick Sheridan CAS Concessions, TX (2013)
Joanie Monroe L.T. Concessions, Inc., IN (2014)
Patrick Sheridan CAS Concessions, TX (2013)
Dan Mourning New Mexico State Fair, NM (2015)
Jim Sinclair Minnesota State Fair, MN (1993)
Cliff Munson Siskiyou Golden Fair, CA (2014)
Robin Smith The Gobblin Gourmet, NC (2011)
Jeremy Parsons Clay County Fair, IA (2014)
Zach Swift Swift Concessions, FL (2010)
Ralph Pressy The Eatery Huts, FL (1993)
Nathan Vandewarker Fire and Ice Concessions, CA (2013)
Jay Russell Russell Foods, TX (2015)
Joe Villari Villari Food Group, NC (2014)
Kelly Sanders Sanders Concessions, CA (2014)
Dominic Vivona Amusements of America, SC (2014)
Thank you to all 34 of our Renewing Members for your continued support of NICA! Are you wondering if your NICA membership renewal may be due soon? To find out, you can contact us at (813) 438-8926 or at nica@nicainc. org. Alternatively, if you have set up your online account with us, you can check your account balance online at our website www.nicainc.org.
President’s Message Paulette Keene, President
Greetings to all! It’s an honor to become the President of NICA, and also a great responsibility. I just stepped down from Vice President and Chair of the NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods 2016 Food Show in Tampa, Florida. The event was a great success! All the business sessions were filled with members interested in learning more about their industry and growing their businesses. We had many educational topics and I am thankful to the volunteer members who led the sessions: Michael Curci, Tina Walker, and Nancy Conners. We also had some professional educators in David Scott Peters, who shared ideas on training employees and growing your bottom line, Tracey McQuilkin, who presented the DOT Updates, and John Desiderio, who presented the ServSafe Management and Certification Class. There were
also sessions for members to share their thoughts about NICA’s strengths, weaknesses, threats, and 2016 Strategic Planning led by John Leamer. The Board of Directors, myself, and Rey OʼDay, Interim Executive Manager, will compile all the information collected to put into our Strategic Plan for the continued development of NICA during our Spring Workshop next month. The Food Show was filled both nights with many suppliers, lots of food to sample, and new ideas for the upcoming Fair season. I am thankful for Fare Foods working with NICA to put this fun-filled successful event on at the East Tampa Sheraton and I’m looking forward to next year’s show, as things are already in the making! I personally would like to thank Audrey Poole of Fare Foods and their staff, Rey, our Interim Executive Manager, Yachika, our Office Manager, Jesse, our Communications and Design Coordinator, Lisa, our new Bookkeeper, of course, our volunteer SanDee O’Brien for all their many
►► “President’s Message” continued on page 7
Director’s Voice Kathy Ross, Secretary
I recently attended the 104th Annual Pennsylvania State Association of County Fairs and the Pennsylvania Showmen’s Association Convention. Not many people would think of southern Pennsylvania as a vacation destination in mid January but I’m not most people. Fair people take bad weather in stride and one of Harrisburg’s largest snow storms didn’t scare them away. The convention was well attended and the 187 spaces in the trade show were sold out! Attending this convention is a highlight of my “convention season.” What’s not to love about
sitting around a massive fireplace and visiting with your friends while the snow falls outside? Most importantly, I was proud to represent NICA in presenting a table topic at this year’s convention: “Responsibility and Demands for Food Concessionaires.” The session had a great attendance level, with half of the room representing fairs and half representing concessionaires. I took this opportunity to discuss the use of the contract. Some of our Fairs have contracts that are three pages long and others have no contract—just a privilege receipt. We covered different rent structures, deposits, contract management, sponsorship, and transfer of ownership. This led to a great discussion throughout the room and sharing of
►► “Director’s Voice” continued on page 7 March 2016 NICA News
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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 Brad Ribar Justin Sattler Daryl Whicheloe, CCE
Immediate Past President Joe Potillo, Jr.
Past Presidents’ Council Greg Miller, CCE Tom Sattler, CCE
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March 2016 NICA News
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 Council Kim Barr Nate Janousek Dan Lusenhop Ashley Murray Mike Newman Dale Smith Lisa Thompson-Baker Jay Wells Daryl Whicheloe, CCE April Wood
nica Northeast Council Tom Ferguson Kelly Grout Russ Harrison, CCE Vinnie Nelson Jim Staub, Jr.
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
NICA WEST OFFICE
2130 Walnut St, La Verne, CA 91750
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, starting a Communications Committee, or learning more about NICA? Please give us a call at (813) 438-8926 or by emailing the NICA Office at nica@nicainc.org
“President’s Message” continued from page 5 ►► and exciting), and closing entertainment from speaker and comedian Bobby McLamb. The Board of Directors would like to thank everyone who hours of planning and hard work to pull this event donated something or participated in this event. off. This is just a beginning of what NICA will do in The Membership meeting held on Wednesday, 2016. We plan on seeing you on the road and want February 10th brought a close to our Florida Week to thank you for your continued support of NICA with a great meal, live and silent auctions (which with Fundraisers and Rallies during the season. Dominic Palmieri, 1st Vice President, made fun “Together We Can!”▲
Office Update !! Late January and early February usually means one thing: the NICA Office and Board were preparing tirelessly for our annual Expo and Food Show. To put it simply, it was a blast! There will be plenty of photos to look at in the next issue, so don’t miss it. We also had a new addition to our staff this year! Audresa “Lisa” Fleming is stepping in as our new Bookkeeper and she has been a great help to NICA thus far. We are happy to have her as part of our team and we look forward to working with her.
One last thing—if you are planning on applying for a scholarship, don’t forget to submit your your application by April 1st! See page 11 for details. We here at the NICA Office are here to help you. If you have any comments, questions, or concerns regarding memberships, renewals, benefits, or general inquiries, contact the office at (813) 438-8926 or by email at nica@nicainc.org. We are here to assist and to make NICA better. Have a great month and a great start to your season! ▲
“Director’s Voice” continued from page 5 ►►
doing so, it would mean Fairs would be greatly impacted. Sales tax would be charged at the Fair Gate admission, parking, and grandstand tickets. The budget was not accepted by one vote. The Showmen encouraged attendees to contact their local state representatives to share our concerns with this proposed sales tax bill. I am proud of the attendees to the 104th Convention—imagine gathering for this long to share information! As long as we are willing to learn and improve our industry, we have a bright future. See ya at the fair! ▲
ideas to deal with specific issues. I stressed that communication is the most important way to achieve a successful event for both parties. While there, the Pennsylvania Showmen shared legislation problems facing the entertainment industry. In attempts to create a balanced budget, Tom Wolf, the Governor of Pennsylvania, proposed broadening the sales tax base to include the amusement industry. In
Æ
HIDDEN OBJECT
Locate the Horseshoe in the pages of this magazine & you can enter to win our monthly prize: a Gift Card worth $25!
Find the Horseshoe
BUt 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 March 31, 2016.
Happy Searching this Month! The Next Winner Could Even be You! March 2016 NICA News
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MORE HUGE SAVINGS FOR NICA MEMBERS Now Including Special Rates for Commercial Vendors Dominic Palmieri, 1st Vice President Gentlepeople, Happy New Year! I want to start off with a fun quote for this article: “Sometimes a blind squirrel finds a nut.” NICA has found a great partner in Source1 that has helped to add a HUGE benefit—The NICA/FED EX discount program! This is definitely a found gem or nut. I am most excited about this because the NICA Board identified we needed to include more 8”x8”x8” weighing 3 lbs, their overnight rate was member benefits for our Commercial brothers and $63.55— the new NICA Rate would be $27.04. sisters and Fair members. This one happens to be With the same box, but with FedEx Ground, it runs fantastic for all NICA Members. $10.17— the new NICA Rate would be $6.46. It all started back in Vegas in 2014, the NICA What was very encouraging is FedEx prices Board realized that a shipping benefit would be beat the UPS/USPS prices that my Commercial beneficial to our current members and help get Exhibitor buddy gets, even with a $10.00/month new members. As an aid to help sign up new fee to get the best pricing and software to do the members, especially Commercial Exhibitors, I shipping from his computer. With FedEx, there is challenged our NICA Sysco Marketplace team to NO EXTRA FEE for our NICA Members! help source a deal. I really put Sysco in the hot To compare, a USPS overnight letter would run seat on this project. I am glad to say that I am $26.52— the NICA Price would be $25.75. A 3 lb. pleased with the FedEx deal that they challenged, box with UPS Overnight would run $64.63—the Source1, to put together for us. While some of NICA Price would be $27.04. A UPS Next Day Air the rates are good—others are better. I found Saver would cost $69.07—the NICA Price would that FedEx envelopes that are used for letter cost $64.55. A Next Day Air- Early shipment would shipments had good discount pricing, while the run $100.42— the NICA Price would run $66.95— ground pricing was also very good (which I’m WOW! A UPS 3 Day would cost $16.58—the NICA hoping that our Commercial brothers and sisters Price would only cost $6.43. will want to jump on immediately). One of the This means that you can get up to 55% things I liked most of the program is that if you savings on overnight letters and packages, 2 have an existing Fedex account number, they Day Service for 48% less, Express Saver for 40% won’t have to change any of your information and less, International Imports for 45% less, and the new pricing will be attached to your account. International Exports for 52.9% less. For FedEx I also asked a NICA Commercial Member friend Ground, you can ship 1-5 lbs for 39.56% less, 6-10 to check his UPS/USPS ship rates in comparison lbs for 44.56% less, 11-20 lbs for 51.56% less, and to our NEW pricing and was blown away that our 21-150 lbs for 54.56% less. new NICA FedEx pricing beat those as well. Below As you can see, there are significant savings Thanks to all NICA members for on your are my findings and prices. for NICA Members to enjoy this new Member I went to my localparticipation. FedEx/Kinkos store in 2014Benefit. have to do is contact Jim Guenther was All anyouincredible success Phoenix and gave them my original account with Source1 Purchasing by emailing him at number and got rates for three different He can and we hope Jim.Guenthner@Source1Purchasing.com. 2015 is even better! shipments: FedEx envelope, standard overnight get you set up. It’s so easy—even YOU can do it! shipping of a 3 lb box 8”x8”x8”, and the same Most important is your NICA Board works box with regular ground shipping from zip codes hard on behalfWHERE of all your businesses. We strive to EASY ACCESS NO MATTER YOU ARE 85044 to 90064. make your bottom line better and hope to give you Visit nica.source1purchasing.com and follow the Enrollment Instructions FedEx Standard Overnight’s rate was $32.57— to make your operations work more efficient. or call tools 855-888-NICA (6422). It’s freeFor for NICA members and“Together has NO LONG TERM OBLIGATIONS. the new NICA Rate would be $25.75. a box We Can!” ▲
We appreciate your partnership!
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March 2016 NICA News
Member’s Voice The greatest part of NICA is the Membership! The Membership’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. Sharon Powell, SPR Enterprises, Inc. / Sharyn’s Fine Foods from Quitman, Georgia, commented that her and her husband Bob’s business has slowed down a little as of late. They mainly work the Spring and Summer in Illinois and Wisconsin with some festivals in Georgia and then three events in Florida. Overall, she feels that her relationship with NICA has been good. She makes use of the Coca-Cola and Pepsi benefits and pointed out that she saved over $1000 using both interior and exterior paint and caulk from Sherwin Williams. She also has used the RV benefit with Arrow and feels it is very useful. Sharon enjoys reading the NICA News and looks forward to each issue. It gives her a feeling about others as well as the events and what is going on around the country. She would like to see NICA “reach out to its members more so perhaps there would be more reaching back.” Steve Taft, Taft’s Mr. Ribeye out of Rochester, Illinois, described his relationship with NICA as “very good.” He used to keep two trailers working from April to November, but now he only works three events in Illinois. The rest of his time is spent working his skate rental business with the school systems. As for benefits, he mainly makes use of the soda discounts. He said that he enjoys reading the NICA News, especially the interviews and industry-related issues. He thinks it is important for NICA to continue and expound on the issues that are state-related too. Stephanie Janousek, Fun Biz Concessions, Inc. of New Brunfels, Texas, grew up in the concession business with her parents. She eventually started her own business in 2009 and was encouraged by Tony Trafton, CCE to join NICA. She works in
four different states— California, Arizona, Texas, and Minnesota. Regarding benefits, she mostly makes use of Source1 with Sysco, CheckInn Direct, and Sherwin Williams. Stephanie enjoys reading the stories of others from coast-to-coast and seeing the many pictures in each issue. She thinks it is very important for NICA to continue to hold “fellowship-type” meetings to enable members to be friends, as well as competitors. She also feels that NICA needs to keep the “grassroots” involved. “The community of concessionaires” whether it be food, retail sales, exhibitors, attractions, games, entertainment, or services need to work together to help every one make a living. Shelia Bartlebaugh, Bartlebaugh Amusements from Madisonburg Pike, Pennsylvania, thinks that NICA is a good association for all. She makes use of most of the discounts—especially Sherwin Williams and AutoZone. She likes the NICA News and is pleased with what’s covered from issue to issue. “It keeps you abreast of what’s current.” She especially likes the stories by and about other Concessionaires and what they are doing that may be different or new. “Sometimes you can even learn about a new product to try in your area.” She also feels that the articles about the DOT changes each year are very helpful and informative. The NICA Office plans to continue these calls to our Renewing Members throughout 2016 and beyond, especially since we have just added a FedEx benefit through Source1 Purchasing and would love to hear your experience. If you hear from us, we’d love to know what’s on your mind! If we haven’t called yet, we’ll be in touch soon. ▲ March 2016 NICA News
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March 2016 NICA News
March 2016 NICA News
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Thoughts from a This month’s Statement of Communications & Management Philosophy is from Past Board Members Kevin McGrath, CCE and Gayle McGrath, CCE, The Best Around:
Kevin McGrath, CCE “Communication is one of the most important facets of life and not just a business tool. What is more important is that communication can only have positive results if it’s honest communication. Communication based on honesty, integrity, and facts will promote a genuine understanding of a problem. Problem solving within your business is difficult if you are not dealing with honest communication. If you aren’t aware of the truth of a situation it’s difficult to arrive at an appropriate solution. Often people only discuss what they think you want to hear. The more difficult problems are harder Kevin McGrath, CCE & Gayle McGrath CCE to talk about. They often cover up real problems The Best Around and real issues are not addressed, or they have a CCEs Earned in 1999 hidden agenda undermining honest discussion. Communication does not have to be brutal to be honest, but honest communication can sometimes be uncomfortable. In the long run uncomfortable as it may be, if you communicate honestly, whatever you communicate will only help, not hurt.” ▲
Gayle McGrath, CCE “Effective communication is synonymous with effective management. It is important at all levels. Communicating effectively with employees is essential for them to undestand what is required of them. The standards you expect them to maintain with regards to cleanliness, customer service, and attitude need to be communicated regularly. Customer service needs to be taught. Positive communications with purveyors promotes a well-organized business with minimal stock and service problems. Sharing ideas with other Concessionaires helps to gain ideas that may improve your own business techniques, as well as passing on effective problem solving techniques that you have discovered to your peers. We all share common problems and collectively there are reasonable solutions. Communicating with management in the Fairs / Festivals you work is imporrtant to improve not only the bottom line, but also aids in making living and working conditions more comfortable. A breakdown in communication at any level in your business is a breakdown in your ability to manage your business.” ▲ 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. Applications are accepted through October of each year—don’t miss your chance! The applicant must be a current member of NICA and also a current member of one of the following associations – IAFE, IFEA, OABA, or the WFA and/or at least one State Association. The applicant must also have a minimum of 7 years as a full-time chief operating manager of an independent concession business. Visit the CCE website for more details: goo.gl/H3VKUf 12
March 2016 NICA News
NICA at the NYSAAF Convention Dennis Fraleigh, 2nd Vice President
The 128th Annual New York State Association of Agricultural Fairs Convention was held January 15-18 at the Joseph A. Floreano Riverside Convention Center in Rochester, New York. NICA was well received and well represented with current Directors, Past Presidents as well as a few Members. Andy Imperati, Dutchess County Fair Manager and NYSAAF President, hosted a concession workshop with a standing room only entitled "What's on the Horizon." Panelists included Joseph Potillo Jr., NICA Immediate Past President, Dennis Fraleigh, NICA 2nd Vice President, and Russ Harrison, CCE, IAFE Associate Directorat-Large and NICA Past President. The NICA talking points were covered as well as some other concerns, with specific interest was put on the ability to sell our businesses. The workshop covered also the Dutchess County Fair Transfer of Ownership Policy, which follows: “The Board of Directors of the Dutchess County Agricultural Society, Inc, home of the Dutchess County Fair, has recognized the contribution their Concessions and Vendors make to the success of the Dutchess County Fair and passed a resolution creating the Concession and Vendor Business Transfer Policy. They recognize that Concessions are not traditional “brick and mortar” businesses and in transitioning their business to new owners, the location of their operation at a Fair is key to the value of their operation. The DCAS policy states that the prospective owner must fill out a DCAS Fair application, including references and submit this prior to taking ownership. After the references are checked and the prospect is approved, DCAS will offer the location to the new owner for 1 year, with the understanding that product quality remains
at or above the existing standard and income produced from the booth also remains at or above the existing level. The benefits of the policy are across the board for all involved. Concessionaires are guaranteed a route with their equipment, adding value to the sale of their business; a route with the equipment purchase gives buyers a stronger business plan when approaching a lender. Finally, the Fairgrounds retains control over their concession operations. Any Concession or Vendor not abiding by this policy in transferring their business may lose their location(s).” Thank you Andy and Vicki Imperati, Debbie Aschmann and the DCAS Board of Directors for adapting a policy NICA has been prompting for over 20 years. Convention highlights included Dennis Lang, Erie County Fair CEO, and Norma Hamilton, retiring NYSAAF Executive Director, being inducted into the NYSAAF Hall of Fame, and Rene Piche, who I bought my first concession trailer from, was recognized as the New York Show People's Show Person of the Year. The NICA Update was given during the general session by Immediate Past President Potillo and NICA supported the NYSAFF Scholarship with a $500 donation. A good time was had by all and everyone left looking forward to next year's convention. ▲
March 2016 NICA News
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Concessionaire of the Month Don Delahoyde, CCE
Five Star Catering Ukiah, CA - Don Delahoyde, CCE has been running his stands at Fairs for more than 30 years! He has around ten units offering food such as gourmet hamburgers, garlic fries, fish and chips, calamari, shrimp, margaritas, beer, cocktails, deep fried vegetables, ice cream, frozen bananas, corn dogs, and funnel cakes.
NN: What do you like most about being a Concessionaire? DD: Probably the people, the other vendors, the NICA News: Thank you for being able to speak to us! How long have you been a Concessionaire and travel, and getting to work outside. member of NICA? NN: What are your most popular or best selling Don Delahoyde, CCE: I have been doing Fairs for products? 33 years and I have been a NICA Member since DD: Currently Lobster Fries, a product we created the beginning of NICA West in 2007. several years ago, as well as our Lobster Corn Dog. Our Macaroni and Cheese Stuffed Bacon NN: What made you join NICA? Burgers are our best selling burger in our burger DD: I felt there was a need for better stands, and Footlong Corn Dogs, from our corn communication and services for Food and dog stands. I still like selling beer, too. Beverage Concessionaires. NN: How and why did you get in to the concession business? DD: I started in the restaurant business at 18. I opened six restaurants before age 30 and I saw a request for proposals for beer at my hometown fair. I thought I would put in a proposal—that was over 30 years ago. We currently do about 40 Fairs annually and I still do beer at my hometown Fair.
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March 2016 NICA News
NN: Do you have any new items coming to your menu this year? DD: Yes, we are developing a new seafood item: a BBQ Salmon on a Flatbread with a Special Slaw. NN: What’s something people don’t know about you or your business? DD: My basset hound makes all the major decisions in the company.
NN: How has the business changed since you first started out? What’s something you wish would change? DD: It’s much harder to make a profit, staffing is very difficult, there are many extra charges from Fairs, and there’s the need for expensive equipment to book. It would be nice to be able to sell the business after taking many years to build. NN: What’s been the highlight of your career? MN: Seeing my son and daughter-in-law join the company and the industry and be successful. Being chosen as the first Concessionaire to be President of the Western Fairs Association and seeing the success of the NICA Sysco Marketplace for all Members. NN: What’s been the most influential to your personal or business success in the past five years? DD: My son, many new ideas, and the purchase of new flashy equipment. NN: What’s the funniest thing that has happened to you in your concession career or through your concessionaire travels? DD: Lots of great times and memories over the years!
NN: What’s something you like to do in your free time? DD: Travel! I just got back from a trip to Philippines with other Concession owners, planning on spring training in Arizona and some fishing on the Oregon coast in April. NN: What do you like best about NICA? DD: That things seem to be improving in the organization; I would like to see the country be all headed in the same direction. NN: What’s something you’re looking forward to this year? DD: I plan on semi-retiring at the end of this year. My family will take over, and I will help where needed. NN: Anything else you’d like to share with NICA members? DD: Enjoy and respect your friends and business partners! ▲ We hope you enjoyed this interview! If you have someone you would like to nominate for Concessioanire of the Month, contact us at (813) 438-8926 or nica@nicainc.org.
March 2016 NICA News
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March 2016 NICA News
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NICA SYSCO MARKETPLACE IS FIRED UP
at the WFA Convention Rey O’Day, Interim Executive Manager
We know “Good Things Come from Sysco”; however, 80 NICA Members learned that good things happen when you go to Sysco. On the first Sunday in January, 55 folks took a bus to Sysco Riverside where they were joined by others for a wonderful afternoon of activities that were planned for us by Dan Meeker, Director of Business Resources and Reviews, and our many Sysco friends. The activities would On the bus to Sysco Riverside include a behindthe-scenes tour of the greenest food distribution facility in the USA. We were greeted by Drew Ammerman, the Sysco Marketing Associate who envisioned the NICA Sysco Marketplace. We split into groups to tour the warehouse which is completely hydrogen and solar powered and so clean that you could eat off the floors. The lights literally went on and
Very clean and shiny floor
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March 2016 NICA News
The shrink wrap machine
Ready to tour the facilities!
off as we moved from space to space. Pallet jacks and fork lifts are all run on hydrogen power that is available 24/7. Everything is recycled and the shrink wrap machine is amazing! Sysco takes in 65,000 cases a day and ships out 55,000 cases a day. Their attention to safety details is impeccable. There are 30 refrigerated truck bays and 30 dry storage truck bays. If a refrigerated truck arrives with an item out of temperature, they refuse the entire load. Once approved, It is then backed up to a refrigerated loading dock to keep it at temperature, where forklifts then deliver it to the refrigerated location appropriate for that product. For instance the produce room is kept at 36 degrees and the floor is 4 feet thick. Everything is calibrated by velocity, Impressive! wind, and temperature.
A delicious lunch buffet
Enjoying food and friendship
We returned from the tour to a delicious lunch prepared by Sysco Corporate Chefs Kevin Cloud and Tony Tucker. The tables were decorated with vases of salt water taffy and daisies. Lunch was followed by a produce workshop, a beef specialist showing all the different cuts possible Cut produce workshop from a shoulder of beef, and a new products showcase from Good Source Solutions and Ecolab. Amy Davis Smith explained how to sign up for and use the NICA Sysco Marketplace program. We were sent off with cookies, coffee, and lots of information on what products makes you money, an invitation to use their state of the art demonstration kitchens for a concession stand business review, and answers to lot of questions about deals and Pat Hawkes, Protein quality products. Specialist The NICA Sysco Marketplace Food Show, as part of the WFA Trade Show, was in full operation on Monday and Tuesday. Good Source Solutions provided turkey legs, hot dog chili, cheese sauce, and hot dogs. Smithfield/Farmland showcased their variety of pork products and Rico’s Products Company showed chips and Turkey Legs sourced by popcorn along with all the Good Source Solutions
sauces you can put on them. They even had chili dispensers. First Data taught us all about their point of sale options including the Clover system. Kent Precision Foods provided refreshing soft serve as the perfect food for our breaks. Tyson Foods introduced a pizza product and Charlie Conarro showing J & J Snack Foods Whirley Cups featured novelty foods and snacks. Domino Sugar was amazed at how much sugar our industry uses and Whirley Cups brought an entire line of containers as well as our refill cup program. Sysco showed practical and pretty paper products, Advance Pierre dazzled us with their tasty protein delights, McCain Howard Silverstein, Entegra Potatoes presented and Mark Goldrainer, potato and appetizer Advance Pierre Foods products, and Heinz and McCormick & Company spiced up our options with condiments and seasonings. 1,300 attendees sampled this very successful food show!
►► “WFA” continued on page 25
Teresa Brander, Lisa Thompson-Baker and Mark Neagles in the midst of the NICA Sysco Marketplace March 2016 NICA News
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Call or E-Mail Us for your FREE 2015 Catalog Today!
www.BerkBrands.com
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March 2016 NICA News
Over 3600 Rounds Of Ammunition Kicked Off
The Inaugural Fair Partners Shootout Lisa Hinton, CFE, Florida Federation of Fairs Thanks to the support and cooperation of many people, including NICA, OABA, and the Florida Federation of Fairs, the Inaugural Fair Partners Shootout was a great success! The concept for the Shootout started with the idea that there was a need for a networking event in February when so many of the Fair industry associations were in town for their national Participating in the Fair Partner’s Shootout was (left to meetings. The Florida Federation of Fairs, NICA, right) Ron Gainey, Florida Strawberry Festival; Leah Norris, and OABA joined in with their support and help. All Lake County Fair; Lisa Hinton, Florida Federation of Fairs; three organizations promoted the event through Dan Walden, Florida Strawberry Festival; Marla Calico, IAFE CEO; Paul Davis and Kenny Peace both also from the communication with their members throughout Florida Strawberry Festival. the month of January. A special thanks to Jeff and Kathy Ross, with Ross Concessions, who worked diligently on behalf of NICA to round up silent auction items, promote the event to potential shooters and sponsors, and assisted with all aspects of the event. As a result of Kathy’s promoting the event at the Pennsylvania Fair Association meeting,
OABA was well represented by Jeanne McDonagh and Bob Johnson
The Central Florida Fair Team: Stacey Wade, Wil Price, Shawn Krauel and Keith Holland
Thanks to Lisa Marchione (left) who brought a great group from the Pennsylvania Showmen over for the shoot! (left to right) Lisa Marchione, Sue Cook, Eric Marchione, Sue Pfeffer
Great form Tim O’Brien!
there were almost more Pennylvania Showmen at the event than any other group! Thanks also to Bob Johnson who rounded up the support of OABA and those that participated, squeezing it into an already tight schedule of events for that week. The Florida Federation of Fairs was also well represented with numerous Fair teams. As always, it was a special treat to have IAFE’s Marla Calico join the Shootout, too! On the day of the Shootout, it was a beautiful Florida day with temperatures in the high 60’s and sunshine—what a great day to be outdoors! With over 60 shooters and 20 other spectators, the sky reverberated with the sound of over 3600 rounds to ammunition being shot at sporting clays that were coming from every angle and direction!
►► “Shootout” continued on page 22 March 2016 NICA News
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A Successful 2016 Han Wang Bowl Randy Reichert, CCE, Past Board Member Hey, what’s the highlight of the South Florida Fair? Ask any Concessionaire worker and they will tell you it is the Bowling Night! This year over 175 people participated in the Han Wang Memorial Bowl (formerly the Shrivel Bowl) held January 26 during the South Florida Fair. Once again, it was a great event and an opportunity for Concessionaires to get off the grounds and enjoy themselves. Gentry Miller headed up organizing the event and he had help from a great number of people. Over 50 prizes worth more than $1,000 were raffled off to the participants. In addition, a mini-iPad and a free campsite for the 2017 South Florida Fair were raffled off separately. It continues to be a great event and it can’t be done without the help of numerous people! Financial and prize sponsors were Demetri’s Gyros, Rose’s Grill, Wild Bill’s Curly Fries, Harvell’s Concessions, Miller Concesions, Parnell’s Elephant Ears, K & R Concessions, George’s Fun Foods, Butcher Boys, Hot Wisconsin Cheese, Candyland, Cellebration, the Toe-Ring Girls, and Tikki Tea Hut. Of course, we can’t forget the food donors: Porky’s, Griff’s Pizza, Angela’s Pizza, Silver Dollar Bakery, Sivori’s Catering, and Chaney Brothers.
Also, a special “Thank You” goes to the South Florida Fair for donating a free campsite for 2017. Nick Strates was in charge of the 50/50 raffle. It raised over $550 that was donated to the family of Han Wang. Once again Mark and Jana Granum did a great job of soliciting the Commercial Vendors and Exhibitors to participate in the event. Of course, hats off to Ruth Sivori who organized the tickets at the door and got them set up for bowling and the raffle tickets. There were many others who participated in the success of this wonderful event. From drawing raffle boards, separating 50/50 tickets, assisting Ruth, setting up the food, and running the raffle boards, there were many who volunteered. “Thank You” to all of you for making this another successful event! ▲
“Shootout” continued from page 21 ►► A special thanks to our 2016 Fair Partners Shootout sponsors including North American Midway Entertainment as the dinner sponsor, Reithoffer Shows as the corporate sponsor, and EcoShield as the ammunition sponsor. Station sponsors included Central Florida Fair, Citrus County Fair, Netterfields Popcorn & Lemonade, and UMS Banking. In kind sponsors included Tom Umiker presents Rhonda Marla Calico, President Ace Hardware-Lithia, Florida Strawberry Growers Ward with the “Fartherest from and CEO of IAFE and Association, and Florida Dairy Farmers for auction First” award – a gun plunger. Tim O’Brien with items, Lonestar Silversmiths for awards, Pepin Thanks for being a good sport O’Brien Food Services Distributing for beer, Coca-Cola for beverages, Rhonda! enjoy the day! Florida State Fair for water and signage, and experienced shooters enjoyed and an event that Hinton Farms for strawberries. will hopefully be the start of a yearly tradition! ▲ It was an event that novice as well as 22
March 2016 NICA News
March 2016 NICA News
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March 2016 NICA News
®/TM/©2016 Tyson Foods, Inc.
“WFA” continued from page 19 ►► We are grateful to the Source1 Purchasing Team Jim Guenthner, Michelle Mayotte, and April Hobbs and the NICA’s Office Manager Yachika Rogers who booked and organized the Food Show. We thank Liz Waxstein, WFA Meetings and Trade Show Manager, for her patient handling of all the registration and hotel details. We are also grateful to Amy Davis Smith, Bernadette Bujanowski, and Helena Vakakes for administering this partnership program so professionally. A big shout out to the NICA Team, Source1 Purchasing Team, Sysco Team, including their on-the-ground Sales Teams, and Entegra for being there to assist our members in utilizing all the benefits of this bottom-line improving program. NICA was honored to welcome Rodger Smith, Sysco Vice President of Business Development, Travel & Leisure, and Retail to the Food Show and our NICA Membership Meeting where we awarded Drew Ammerman, Sysco Master Associate, with the Vision and Tenacity Award for believing in 2008 that a Concessionaire Buying Program was possible to establish. The result of his vision and tenacity is the successful partnership of NICA, Sysco, and Source1 Purchasing in the NICA Sysco Marketplace. Once again proving that “Together We Can!” ▲
Bernadette Bujanowski, Amy Davis-Smith, and Rodger Smith, NICA Sysco Marketplace Leaders
The Sysco & Source1 Team
Mike Newman, Dan Lusenhop, Nate Janousek and Ryan Long putting up the NICA booth
Two Great Leaders: Paulette Keene, Incoming NICA President and Barbara Quaid, Incoming WFA President, both longtime NICA Members
Precision Foods, home of delicious soft serve and pineapple whip
Rey O’Day awarding Drew Ammerman, Sysco Master Associate, the NICA Vision and Tenacity Award
Good Things come from Sysco March 2016 NICA News
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Fare Foods is currently seeking to fill the position of
OUTSIDE SALES REPRESENTATIVE Fare Foods is a full-service amusement food & concession supplies provider delivering to events on site across the United States. We have warehouses centrally located in the Midwest and Tampa, Florida, servicing events throughout the year.
WE DELIVER! 1-800-651-1601 26
March 2016 NICA News
The ideal candidate will process orders and solicit new qualifying business. You will gain extensive product knowledge and have the ability to quickly resolve issues with customers. ■
Candidate will be required to travel.
■
Previous Amusement/Carnival experience preferred.
■
Previous wholesale food experience preferred.
If you would like to become a part of a fast growing family owned food service company please send a resume to sharsy@farefoods.com
APPLY TODAY!
March 2016 NICA News
27
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 28
March 2016 NICA News
www.mrgsmeats.com
2016 Membership Contest Leaderboard* General Membership Larry McConnell, CCE.....................................................................1 Faith McGee....................................................................................1 Kevin McGrath, CCE.......................................................................1 Jack Sturgeon................................................................................1 Jack Woods II, CCE.........................................................................1
Northeast & West Councils Ashley Murray................................................................................2
Board of Directors Dominic Palmieri............................................................................2 Kathy Ross.....................................................................................2 Dan Lusenhop................................................................................1
Administration Office...............................................................................................5
*See the back cover for rules and prizes
: Friend, follow, like, message, and share with us!
Next Month in the NICA Business Expo & Fare Foods Food Show Wrap-Up, Thoughts from a CCE, Member’s Voice, New Benefits, Florida Strawberry Festival, and more! If you have a story, announcement, or idea let us know at communications@nicainc.org and we can reserve your spot.
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! March 2016 NICA News
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2016 Events Calendar
Representing NICA & Its Industry Partners March 4-6: IAFE Zone 5 Annual Meeting • Kansas City, MO 8: Daylight Savings Time Begins 21-23: Tools Of The Trade (Seminar for Agriculture & Facilities by IAFE) • Buffalo, NY
April 1: Scholarship Applications due in office 4-6: IAFE Zone 4 Annual Meeting • Green Bay, WI 4-7: Board of Directors Spring Workshop • St. Petersburg, FL
21-23: Combined IAFE Zone 3 and 6 Meeting • South Padre Island, TX 25-28: 48th Annual IAFE Management Conference • Tulsa, OK
May 6-7: IAFE Zone 1 Annual Meeting • Concord, NH 12-14: Combined IAFE Zone 2 Annual Meeting and Florida Federation of Fairs & Livestock Shows Annual Convention • St Augustine, FL 19-21: IAFE Executive Summit for State and Provincial Associations • Springfield, MO
June 1: Board of Directors nominations due in office TBA: 10th Annual NICA West Golf Tournament • Solana Beach, CA
July 15: Membership directory update forms sent to all members Although these dates are based on sources believed to be reliable and true, they are subject to change due to cancellation or other reasons throughout the year. Additional or revised dates may be announced in future issues or at nicainc.org under our calendar section.
RIO SYRUP CO.
St. Louis, MO 63103 | 800-325-7666 | www.riosyrup.com Distributed through Fare Foods 1-800-651-1601
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March 2016 NICA News
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
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
q
Fair / Festival over 75,000 attendance............................$125
q
Fair / Festival under 75,000 attendance...........................$75
q Employee................................................................................$50 q Retired....................................................................................$50
q
Manufacturer / Distributor / Industry Supplier..............$125
q
Carnival / Circus Operator..............................................................$125
Check a category below and provide a detailed description of your company’s services:
q
Special Services..................................................................$125
q
Stationary Concession......................................................$125
A person or entity who provides services to the concession industry.
Voting:
Non-Voting:
q Commercial Exhibitors q Attractions / Entertainment q Retail
q Food q Games q Services
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
q
Visa
q
Mastercard
q
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 • March 2016 Issue
PRSRT STD U. S. POSTAGE PAID STEVENS POINT WI PERMIT NO. 272