October 2016 NICA News

Contents • OctoBer 2016 FEATURES 08 NICA Business Expo & Fare Foods 2017 Food Show Information 11 Member’s Voice Rick Barcena, Bayshore Services, LLC; Lee Amos, Big Onion Concessions; David Athey, Speciality Foods; Ronald Boeger, Happy Days Pony Rides

12 Thoughts from a CCE

Dale Smith, CCE, Family A Fair, Inc.

18 Concessionaire Spotlight

Ron Withers, Withers Concessions

13 Association Announcements 14 Where Are My Rebates?

16 Southern California Welcomes Our New Executive Director 20 The Northeast Report 22 Put on Your Best Fair Face 24 It’s Our Time of Year!

27 CLC Lodging Saves NICA Members Money on Workforce Lodging

Activities & Events 07 Hidden Object Contest 29 Coca-Cola Membership Contest Leaderboard 30 2016-17 Events Calendar

AdvertiSers News & Articles 05 President’s Message Paulette Keene

05 Director’s Voice

Daryl Whicheloe, CCE

07 Card’s Corner Michelle Card

30 Allied Specialty Insurance 02 Coca-Cola 28 Fanestil Meats 27 Fare Foods 04 Firestone Financial 29 Haas & Wilkerson Insurance 23 Heinkel’s Packing 15 Hummel Group

04 National Food Group 15 Source1 Purchasing 26 THE Insurance 06 United Trailers / Air Safe Hitches 20 Whirley Drink Works 28 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 © 1993-2016 NICA, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

October 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 Justin Sattler Daryl Whicheloe, CCE

Immediate Past President Joe Potillo, Jr.

Past Presidents’ Council Greg Miller, CCE Tom Sattler, CCE Russ Harrison, CCE Richard Busse, CCE

Tom Hodson, CCE Jim Hodson, CCE (Deceased) Tim O’Brien, CCE Ron Smith Adam McKinney, CCE Mike Pence, CCE Jack Woods, II, CCE Bob Hallifax, CCE Frank Parnell, CCE Larry Orme (Deceased) Larry Sivori Rich Wright Bill McKinney, CCE Arthur Pokorny, Jr. Gene O’Brien, CCE (Deceased)

OFFICE

Executive Director: Michelle Card michelle@nicainc.org

Office Manager : Yachika Rogers nica@nicainc.org

Communications, Marketing & Design: Jesse Willard communications@nicainc.org Bookkeeper: Lisa Fleming bookkeeper@nicainc.org

Ask us how we can save you 20% to 50% on your food costs Breaded Chicken Patty from $1.67/lb Philly Steak Meat from $1.99/lb And many more items!

Northeast Council

Coordinator : Jessica Castro

NortheastNICA@hotmail.com

Council Members: Kelly Grout Russ Harrison, CCE Vinnie Nelson Eddie Porcelli, III Tonio Viscusi

West Council

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

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

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

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

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October 2016 NICA News

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President’s Message Paulette Keene, President

She also attended the Kentucky State Fair, visiting NICA Members and Sales Manager James Johnson.

The best word to Then she was off on her way back to Tampa. describe the summer and Together we can grow NICA Membership! The season in Illinois is HOT! enrollment in membership has already increased The heat, flood, and rain this year. I was thinking if every member of NICA really put a damper on the signed up just one member, look how we would Illinois State Fair. It was grow! We could double our members; plus, look devastating to the campers at the suppliers we could approach about getting in Happy Hollow and very more benefits with the fact we would have over unfortunate for a lot of the 2000 members they could reach and service us. agriculture people involved.

We at NICA are also working with IAFE CEO It was a good year for the Marla Calico and her staff for great discussions Fair to recognize their First Responders, because and fun workshops for the betterment of our Fair once again they came through helping campers Industry. get to dry ground.

NICA we can also grow by finding ways to Michelle came to the Illinois State Fair and I involve community non-profit organizations to introduced her to a lot of NICA Members and we help furnish employees for Concessionaires. had a Wine and Cheese Social for Concessionaires Michelle is working with members such as Vicki and Fair staff. We had around 30 people attend King (who has a good plan in use) to create a way and we shared stories about the week and past to help us find ways to use organizations to help experiences. Then Michelle went by the Indiana us with employees. Her plan can save us on payroll State Fair and introduced herself as NICA taxes, introduce youth to our industry, and provide Executive Director to the Concessions Manager Beth Jeffries, NICA Members, and non-members, ►► “Message” continued on page 6 even signing up a new member in the process.

Director’s Voice Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, Director

Hello from Southern Oregon Food and Beverage.

I hope everyone is having a good and successful year!

I assume most of you are coming to the close of your season and looking forward to some well-earned rest and time to relax.

For us in the Pacific Northwest, it has been a good Fair season. With few extreme temperatures, all the Fairs seem to be doing well.

Fair attendances, food grosses, carnival sales, livestock participation, and auctions all appear

to be up over last year’s numbers. All of this is a good sign for the Concession Industry.

As this is my 30th year in the Concession Business, I reflect on my time in the Industry.

There have been many changes over the years.

There are few Fair Managers, Office staff, and Fairgrounds staff in the same positions these 30 years later and many new Concessionaires have joined our community. The main change in the Concession Industry has been the quality, particularly in the past ten years. As a group, we have stepped up to meet the struggles and challenges the Fairs have faced with food. We became creative with our menus and produced

►► “Director’s Voice” continued on page 6 October 2016 NICA News

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“Message” continued from page 5 ►► needed labor. Additionally, her plan will provide money to assist nonprofits and other partnering organizations in their hometowns, so stay tuned for more information. What a great way to grow our community involvement! I have always thought getting people involved at the Fair will grow the Fair’s attendance.

We, as Concessionaires, are always growing our friendships, whether it’s new customers or new local employees. One of the best rewards of being a Concessionaire is building relationships with new customers and serving them their favorite Fair food. We also make friends while shopping at the local grocery store, hardware store, or restaurants. We are always adding people to our list of acquaintances.

When I started this article it was blazing hot, but that’s the joy of Illinois because I have already experienced a few cool evenings. I am looking forward to our fall route, cooler weather, and seeing all of you at upcoming Fairs or Conventions. ▲

“Director’s Voice” continued from page 5 ►► great new items and quality products for the Fairgoer. The look of the food courts have also changed, whether by hundred-thousand-dollar food trailers, or simply changing signage and using nicer equipment. We have all done a great job and are a credit to the Food Industry.

The consistent aspect over the years have been the people, friendships, and connections we make at the Fairs. I look forward to seeing office staff, maintenance crews (especially when I need a pallet of potatoes moved), and all of our customers. I am sure you agree the loyal customers that come for your specific item make the long days worthwhile and enjoyable.

In the first years as we struggled to get started, my father, whose advice I greatly respected, would ask me, “Why don’t you get a proper job?”

After all the hard work, I am glad I stuck with it.

The experiences and friendships made in this industry are priceless. I thank my wife and kids for agreeing to the long summer schedule, along with my loyal employees. I have always believed if you take care of them, they will in turn take care of you, and so far, that has proven to be true. Most of all I want to thank all of you, the most hard working, helpful, and loyal group of individuals out there!

When asked when I plan to retire, my answer has always been the same: “When I don’t enjoy going to work anymore.” So far, it is still an enjoyable job; a big reason is because of the great people I work with, so I don’t plan to retire yet. I hope you all have a great rest of your season. Safe travels and keep up the hard work! ▲ Do you have stories or photos that you’d like to share? Let us know at communications@nicainc.org

Are you selling your equipment, business, or need assistance running it?

Contact the NICA Office today at (813) 438-8926 or nica@nicainc.org and we will do our best to get the word out. We have many options available to help!

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Introducing... card’s Card’s corner Corner

Michelle Card, Executive Director

Presidents that had much expertise to provide and I am grateful to have them available for continued It is with much pleasure guidance.

The last leg of my travels was to our Northeast that I can provide a report Council’s First Social on September 13th in after two very fast months Springfield, MA. I couldn’t be happier to attend have passed as your new this inaugural event and provide a united presence Executive Director. Much from the West to the East Coast. NICA West has of this time has been on extended a powerful show of support of the newly the road from Florida to created Northeast Council by sponsoring their California meeting Board social. This display of solidarity is one that I will Members, NICA Members, many NICA Past Presidents, foster and grow throughout our organization…

Fair Managers, and CEOs of because, “Together We Can!” our sister organizations.

Wednesday morning of September 14th, I Dominic Palmieri and Rey O’Day have been joined OABA in Washington, D.C. with Senator crucial to my initiation into this energetic and Kevin McCarthy, Republican Majority Leader, who exciting Fair family on the West Coast. My works closely with Speaker Ryan and is a strong California visit offered me much insight to their ally for the H-2B program. Continued support of vast programs and fundraisers. The laundry list this program is essential to a large percentage of of NICA West achievements marking their 10-year NICA Members and I will do what I can to ensure anniversary are impressive to say the least and I its growth and sustainability. was honored to be educated by those who were I then returned promptly to The Big E and was instrumental in growing NICA West and crafting happy to meet many of you there! amazing member benefits, such as the NICA / Aside from my travels, I have been gathering Sysco Marketplace! data from a large number of you regarding what Paulette Keene and I worked closely together you consider to be your largest challenges in the in Florida and again at the Illinois State Fair. She industry. Labor is highest on the list for many and introduced me to a number of our members and I have ideas that just may help you remedy these informed me of many Concessionaire challenges. problems. As this is a work in progress, please From Illinois, Paulette sent me to Indianapolis stay tuned to NICA News for updates regarding and then on to Kentucky. The difference in each my solutions as I continue to learn and polish my of the six Fairs I attended were eye opening and plan. a tremendous learning opportunity. During these Many thanks for the opportunity to serve as travels I met with a large number of NICA Past your Executive Director. ▲

HIDDEN OBJECT

Somewhere within this issue of NICA News is a lost piece of candy corn. If you locate it, you can win a Gift Card worth $25!

Find the Candy Corn

So... What if you Find it?

Contest!

Well, lucky reader, tell us where you found it 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 October 31, 2016.

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

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NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods 2017 Food Show ◄◄◄ February 6th, 7th

&

8th, 2017 ►►►

Sheraton Tampa East 10221 Princess Palm Ave. Tampa, FL The NICA Business Expo will provide Workshops and Discussion Groups which will cover the issues and the daily challenges our industry is faced with today. The Workshops will be facilitated by experts in their fields.

The Fare Foods 2017 Food Show will feature exhibitors showcasing the latest food trends and technology that will define the 2017 Fair Season.

◄◄◄ February 6th & 7th, 2017 ►►► NICA Workshops and Discussion Groups Fare Foods Food Show: 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm* *Vendor Setup: February 6th, Noon - 4:00 pm

◄◄◄ February 8th, 2017 ►►► NICA Membership Meeting and Evening Entertainment We look forward to seeing you in Tampa!

NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods 2017 Food Show ◄◄◄ February 6th, 7th

&

8th, 2017 ►►►

Food Show: 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm - Vendor Setup: Feb. 6th, Noon - 4:00 pm

Exhibit Space Application ◄◄◄ Please Select a Sponsorship Level ►►►

 Platinum ....$7,500  Gold.............$5,000  Silver .......... $3,000  Bronze .......$2,000

Return completed form by November 15, 2016 to: Fare Foods, P.O. Box 407, Du Quoin, IL 62832 All payments must be made in full by January 13, 2017 or booth space will be forfeited.

Phone: (618) 542-2155 • Fax: (618) 542-4798 E-mail: apoole@farefoods.com

Company Name _______________________________________________________ Contact Person _______________________________________________________ Phone No. ______________ Cell No. _______________ Fax No. _____________ Address _____________________________________________________________ City ___________________ State __________________ Zip _________________ E-mail: ______________________________________________________________ List products/services to be exhibited:______________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ Name Badges: (Please print first and last name of individuals working your booth) ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ☐ Master Card

☐ Visa

Expiration Date: __________

Credit Card No.

____________________________

Signature __________________________________

Credit card payments accepted, *3% Processing Fee Applies

Member’s Voice The greatest part of NICA is the Membership!

The Member’s Voice influences where the organization is headed and what it can improve, especially when it comes to which benefits are being used and which events people are interested in attending. The NICA Office has been continuing their survey of responses from Renewing Members.

Rick Barcena, Bayshore Services, LLC from Tampa, FL, has been a member from the beginning. In fact, he was the seventh member to sign up at the first meeting held in Tampa.

NICA has been a good source to help him and his wife keep up with “what’s going on.” The rebates received have been great. Rick now feels that NICA keeps them “tied in.” He also expressed that he is becoming an “old timer,” remembering that he used to wait for the magazine Amusement Business to hit the fairgrounds. Everyone waited for it so one could look up the routes and dates of various shows and Fairs. Nowadays, one can find this type of information online. For him the key points of the NICA News are learning about people and new and different ways to do the same things. He especially likes articles that are “full of facts” and information that can can help “make myself better.” He has bought two trucks in the last seven years using the Ford Fleet benefit along with using the CheckInn Direct card. Rick thinks the scholarships are an opportunity that are great for the students.

Lee Amos, The Big Onion Concessions of Nashport, OH, described his relationship with NICA as “very good.” He stated that NICA has helped to answer a lot of his questions. He admitted that he has not used a lot of the benefits as he has personal friends that help him with getting good discounts that are often better than the national prices. He has remained a member for other things NICA does, such as working with OABA and GOSA (Greater Ohio Showmen’s Association) lobbying with the government.

He feels that one of the best benefits is the “fellowship” that comes from being a NICA

Member. He feels that our industry is growing because so many people are retiring and they think this is a good thing to do in retirement now.

He has sold them trailers and two years or less, they want to sell them back to him. Lee thinks that the NICA News is “a very good and informative magazine.” He ended the interview by saying that “many people offer help for this old man.”

David Athey, Specialty Foods out of Indianapolis, IN, described his relationship with NICA as “great!” He qualified that he is not a “traveling Concessionaire” as he sleeps at home every night. He mainly works just in Indiana close to home obviously. He also admitted that they probably do not make use of many of the benefits that NICA has to offer. He has become a part of the NICA / Sysco Marketplace program and uses the Coca-Cola and Pepsi national pricing discounts. David looks forward to reading the NICA News just to see what is going on in other parts of the country. He works from May through October and is not looking for new items and locations, but it helps to see what is going on so “you can improve your own operation.” It helps

►► “Member’s Voice” continued on page 12 October 2016 NICA News

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Thoughts from a This month’s Statement of Communications & Management Philosophy is from our newest CCE recipient Dale Smith, CCE, Family A Fair, Inc.: With the intense competition in today’s Fair Industry, Food, and Beverage Concessionaires are being pulled in many directions. Rent is rising as well as employee wages, along with literally raising the roof of our concession trailers. The annual installation of expensive vinyl wraps on our trailers is the norm today. In order to balance these expenses, we set goals to meet high volume sales. In order to do that, you have to have the flash, the “new” product, and of course, the location to make it all happen. It’s a huge challenge and we all strive to exceed these standards.

In all this competition, I find a growing number of Concessionaires and Exhibitors coming together with a new found comradery that is important to this industry. We have become close over the years with a strong code of ethics. We stand on the “Good Neighbor” philosophy and constantly help each other out. Today I surround myself with strong, innovative, and savvy Dale Smith, CCE peers. They are mentors and apprentices, always wanting the best for one Family A Fair, Inc. another, even putting the others’ needs first. One of my good friends just received the Barham Award of Excellence and I couldn’t be more proud.

CCE Earned in 2016 My management philosophy is simple. Treat your employees with respect. Help them by using their strong points, and by not putting them in positions they can’t handle.

Training is very important and constant. Communication is key between managers and staff. The key to success is integrity, respect, and communication. ▲ The title of Certified Concessionaire Executive represents a deep understanding and respect for the Fair and Festival business and indicates that the titleholder will perform with the highest level of professionalism. The 2016 CCE Application period is over, but you can still apply at goo.gl/H3VKUf ▲

“Member’s Voice” continued from page 11 ►► to know about how the weather was and how it affected the events, or whether it was down due to a gate increase or other changes in the market.

Sometimes it takes a while for his paper copy to arrive due to mail forwarding, so he often views the NICA News online.

Ronald Boeger, Happy Day Pony Ride from Cherokee, CA, has been a member from the mid-nineties. From early on, Ron has supported NICA. He served as a State Representative from California, as they were called back then. He has seen the growth of NICA in the West and it has certainly strengthened the respect given 12

October 2016 NICA News

to members from Fair Management because of being organized. He has enjoyed going to the meetings and conventions for over 50 years with the NICA meetings being a true highlight. He also enjoys reading the NICA News, especially the articles about the Concessionaires and how they are doing things. As Ron put it, he “is on the back side” and been delegated to be the babysitter as his own son takes over. Ron feels that it is most important that families stay together and this can be done by home schooling or schools supported by the shows, such as the one supported by RCS. The NICA Office plans to continue these calls to our Renewing Members. If you hear from us, let us know what’s on your mind! If we haven’t called yet, we’ll be in touch soon. ▲

Association

Announcements Do you have any news that you would you like to contribute to our Association Announcements section?

Contact the NICA Office at (813) 438-8926 or e-mail nica@nicainc.org to share your information and/or photos.

Thank you for Voting in This Year’s Election As October arrives, it signals the end of NICA’s election season. Thank you to all Voting Members for your continued support in shaping the future of NICA’s Board of Directors. This year marked the largest turnout of voters in comparision to the last few years and it’s sure to be an exciting result! Since there are six nominees, this has been a very tight race. The votes are currently being counted and the results will be announced in next month’s issue of NICA News. ▲

Wishing a Speedy Recovery to Multiple Members The NICA Office wishes a complete and speedy recovery to NICA Members Don Delahoyde, CCE of Five Star Catering, Chuck Dugan of Chuckwagon, Dave Holmes of Fruit Caboose, and Don Long of L & L Concessions. Each member has been with NICA for many years; we hope you get well soon! ▲

This Month’s New and Renewing Members We wish a warm welcome to all 13 of our New Members! Remember, one referred New Member is an entry into the Coca-Cola Membership Contest, which could earn you a cash prize or even a cruise.

See the Contest Leaderboard on page 29 or rules and information on the back cover.

Thanks also goes out to all 108 of our Renewing Members for your continued support of NICA! “Together We Can!” Is your NICA membership renewal due soon? To find out, you can call the NICA Office at (813) 438-8926, email us at nica@nicainc.org, or check your account balance online anytime at www.nicainc.org. ▲

The Directory Update Deadline is this Month!

The NICA Office mailed out each member’s directory updates in August. If you haven’t received your update yet, please contact us at (813) 438-8926. The information that you will provide will be our guide for creating your entry in the 2017 NICA Membership Directory. No changes? No problem! If so, you will have until October 10, 2016 to send your updates via fax, mail, or email. ▲

Our 2016 Membership Survey Deadline Has Been Extended Our Membership Survey has already been sent out but we still want to hear from you. The NICA Office has extended the deadline from October 10, 2016 to the end of the month in case you haven’t gotten it in yet. If you fill your survey out before October 31, 2016, your company will still be eligible to be entered into a drawing for a gift card. We look forward to hearing from you! ▲

►► “Association Announcements” continued on page 21 October 2016 NICA News

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Where Are My Rebates?

Jim Guenther, Source1 Purchasing As a NICA Member, you are invited and encouraged to participate in the NICA / Sysco Marketplace program. This is a great benefit that offers cost savings directly off invoice on over 6,000 items through Sysco at nationally negotiated and contracted pricing. The only requirements to participate in this free program is that you enroll in the NICA / Sysco Marketplace program and purchase your items through Sysco.

Once enrolled, and in addition to valuable off-invoice savings, many products purchased through the program also offer rebates. These rebates are invoiced, collected and distributed back to NICA Members quarterly by Source1 Purchasing. Have you received your rebate check?

If you have received a rebate check, great! It may not be a fortune, but every little bit helps, right? Overall, the rebates only make up about 20% of the overall savings under the Marketplace program with the other 80% being realized directly off Sysco invoices regularly (deviated savings).

If you are not receiving rebates, it could be for a variety of reasons: • You never signed up for the NICA / Sysco Marketplace program so are not earning savings and rebates on your purchases.

• You purchased items from other distributors or at a big box store instead of Sysco. All contracted price savings and rebates are only available on purchases made through Sysco.

• You are not buying the correct contracted items. Most items on the program have off invoice savings, but not all have rebates.

• You were not connected to the program at each Sysco OpCo you used. You must confirm with each Sysco location that your account(s) are correctly connected to the “NICANICA” national pricing ID to earn the program savings and rebates available.

• You have a new Sysco account number and it has not been linked to the program.

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October 2016 NICA News

Without these steps, you could easily and unknowingly be buying at “street” pricing and missing out on all the valuable savings through the NICA / Sysco Marketplace program. This program is a benefit to you to help improve your overall bottom line. Please take advantage of it.

What help is available?

Source1 Purchasing is a NICA Member and partner, and oversees the NICA / Sysco Marketplace program. Source1 is available to help you by: • Offering and assisting with an easy no cost enrollment process to get you attached to the off invoice savings and rebates.

• Reviewing the benefits and other program offerings available to help save you money.

• Analyzing your purchases monthly to find item opportunities that offer savings both off invoice and via rebate.

• Ensuring that all your Sysco account numbers have been successfully linked to the program national ID to guarantee your price savings.

How do I get help?

The best way to ensure that you are set is to reach out to David Koretsky at Source1 Purchasing today. You can enroll, confirm your current contact information and verify your Sysco account numbers and OpCo’s (Operating Companies) you plan to use. You can connect with David by calling 855-888-NICA (6422) or via email at David.Koretsky@source1purchasing.com Lastly, you can always visit the NICA / Sysco Marketplace website for more information at NICA.source1purchasing.com ▲

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Phil Teague, CIC

Focused On Concessionaires Insurance PROGRAM

“One of the cool things that Phil Teague did was, he came out and actually worked in our business...”

-Ryan Kuzma, Linn Enterprises Inc.

Property | Fleet | Liability | Workers’ Compensation October 2016 NICA News

15

Southern California Welcomes

Our New Executive Director Rey O’Day, West Council Executive Manager

On August 24th, Michelle Card arrived at the Ontario Airport perfectly dressed for one of her many roles as NICA Executive Director: visiting NICA Members and Fairs across the country.

Southern California was ready to welcome her with open arms!

Her first stop was the LA County Fair where Sherry Flores, Fairplex Concessions Manager, took her on a tour of the 400 acre fairgrounds.

The Fair there did not start until Sept 2nd so it was NICA Executive a facility that was in the Director Michelle Card arrives in Southern process of being set up.

California It was a great opportunity to see the infrastructure and maintenance that supports a Fair: utilities, truss, trucks full of everything imaginable, props, tents, generators, painting, cleaning barns, landscape, paving, and signage.

The tour was followed by lunch at the McKinley Grill in the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel and Conference Sherry Flores, Fairplex Concessions Manager, shows Center where food is Michelle the LA County served from a farmFairgrounds to-table format. Good beginning!

The road trip continued with Rey O’Day, West Council Executive Manager, and Michelle headed west to the Ventura County Fair, which is perfectly located ON the Pacific Ocean Beach.

Tina Kaminksky, Concessions Manager, provided us with a list of Michelle meets with Jennifer Vendors and a map Giordano, C & C Concessions and NICA Treasurer of their locations.

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October 2016 NICA News

Michelle grazing with Dawn and Ashley Murray, M & M Marketing, and Nate Janousek, Fun Biz Concessions

Using our NICA Membership Directory, Michelle began grazing on delicious Fair treats and meeting members including Jennifer Giordano, NICA Treasurer, and West Council Members Ashley Murray, Nate Janousek, and Lisa Thompson-Baker.

The evening ended watching fireworks with Fair CEO, WFA President, and NICA Dave Yonan, Space Age Food Member Barbara Concessions, Jan Gary, Leap Quaid. Priceless! of Faith Adventures, Tina The next morning Kaminsky, Ventura County Fair was the annual WFA Concessions Manager, and Bob Riggs, Cloud Fair, serving Service Member up breakfast at the WFA Breakfast. The NICA Service Member Breakfast West Council provided gift card door prizes and Michelle was the guest of honor. WFA Executive Director Stephen Chambers and Meeting and Trade Show Manager Liz Waxstein presented Michelle with a very full basket of delicious cookies with the NICA logo on them. Delicious and very thoughtful!

Time for the road trip to continue to the Orange Stephen Chambers, WFA County Fair, a two Executive Director, and Liz hour and 15 minute Waxstein, Trade Show and drive that took over Meeting Manager, presenting a four hours! However, basket of cookies to Michelle

Concessionaires welcome Michelle at the OC Fair Concessionaire / Commercial Exhibits Awards Dinner

Rey, Stephen, Nate, and Michelle had a great time becoming better acquainted. We arrived at the OC Fair where Kathy Kramer, CEO, greeted us with an invitation to attend the annual Concessionaire/ Commercial Exhibits Awards dinner in a lovely outdoor setting.

This was a great Michelle Card, NICA Executive chance to visit Director, Stephen Chambers, WFA with more industry Executive Director, Rey O’Day, NICA West Executive Manager, Concessionaires and Kathy Kramer, OC Fair CEO and be proud that most of the award recipients were NICA Members.

Pure serendipity!

The next morning NICA hosted a breakfast gathering, sponsored by Spectra, at Bayou Blues. Dominic Palmieri, NICA 1st VP, hosted the meeting, and Sysco and Pepsi provided gift card door prizes. While there, she saw the most successful NICA / Sysco Marketplace Fair in action and visited with Drew Ammerman, Sysco Senior Marketing Associate, Mark Neagles, Good Source Solutions, International Sales Manager, and Jim Guenthner, Source1 Purchasing, VP of Corporate Programs. Prior to a tasty potluck dinner with the Ray Cammack Shows families, Dominic provided an in depth tour of the Carnival lot including training facilities, K-8 school, uniform laundry amenities, warehouses, and cook house.

Impressive!

Soon Michelle would be leaving to visit NICA President Paulette Keene at the Illinois State Fair, but not without one more breakfast cooked and served by NICA Members Dominic Palmieri, Odyssey Foods, Nate Janousek, Fun Biz Concessions, Mike Ousey, Mad Hatter Concessions, and Ray Cammack Shows Owner Guy Leavitt. There she also met NICA Board Member Dan Lusenhop and had a chance to visit

Door prize winners at the West Council Continental Breakfast: Bob Hutchins, Rainbow Concessions, Schuyler MacPherson, Ten Pound Buns, Bob Jackson, Jackson Enterprises, Brandy Arredondo, Noel’s Foods, and Mike Davis, Toucan Enterprises

more with OC Fair CEO Kathy Kramer.

Michelle was on her way to guide our organization into its next chapters well fed, having met over The Chefs: Dominic Palmieri, NICA 150 members, 1st VP, Mike Ousey, Mad Hatter’s and visited with Concessions, Guy Leavitt, RCS CEO, and Nate Janousek, West NICA leaders Council Member including three Board Members, seven current and past West Council Members, Fair and Sister Organization Management, business benefit partners, and me, the West Council Executive Manager. Onward and upward!

In closing, I was honored to host Michelle for these few days.

Dan Lusenhop, Jeanne’s I enjoyed her Artichokes and NICA Board Member, and Rey O’Day, NW energy, curiosity Executive Manager, visiting with and knowledge RCS owner Charlene Leavitt about nonprofit organizations. I am happy to have served NICA as the Interim Executive Manager this past year and half. We accomplished much good work and have moved in the direction of being a more national organization. Our members are engaging, hardworking people with a passion for being entrepreneurs. I have just returned from Fairs in the Northwest where we are continuing to grow membership, gather with current members, share our story with Fair Management, raise funds, encourage the use of our many benefits, and engage in moving our industry into the future of its full potential. I am grateful! ▲ October 2016 NICA News

17

Concessionaire Spotlight Ron Withers Withers Concessions Macy, IN - Ron Withers operates under the name Withers Concessions and specializes in Elephant Ears and Lemonade. We had a chance to ask him a few questions about his experience as a Concessionaire and a NICA Member.

NICA News: Thank you for being able to speak to us! How long have you been a Concessionaire and member of NICA? Ron and Dixie Withers Ron Withers: I made my first Elephant Ear in July of 1973. My wife Dixie has been at it since 1970.

I believe we became NICA Members in 1993 or other flavors gain in popularity every year.

1994.

NN: Do you have any new items coming to your NN: How and why did you get in to the concession menu this year? business?

RW: We are always tinkering with our menu. Our RW: My wife’s family started the Elephant Ear newest addition is a “S’mores Ear” that has been business in 1970. Her brother needed a way to very successful this summer. make college money and got the idea of Elephant NN: What’s something people don’t know about Ears from a booth that our church used to have at you or your business? the Peru Circus Days. One thing led to another and RW: For people outside the business, the cost here we are! My involvement started when I began of the equipment is easily the number one thing dating my wife. It didn’t take very long to pull me they don’t know about. People are constantly in too. complimenting the looks of our trailers by saying NN: What do you like most about being a something like “Boy, this is a beautiful trailer; it Concessionaire? must have cost $20,000 or $30,000.” This is while RW: My favorite part of the business was always they are staring at a $150,000 piece of equipment. the seasonal aspect. I enjoyed having time in For fellow Concessionaires, there is not much they the winter to pursue other projects as well as don’t know. Everybody knows there are no secrets spend more time with my family. The other great on the road! I guess maybe there are still a few part of the business is the camaraderie I have people who don’t know that I’m off the road and enjoyed with other concessionaires. Some of the teaching in the college classroom now, but that’s best friends I have are due to the time we spend about it. sitting next to other vendors. There are some NN: How has the business changed since you first outstanding people on the road and I have been started out? What’s something you wish would blessed to call some of them friends. change?

NN: What are your most popular products?

RW: Wow! Let’s see; day and night, black and RW: Well, since all we sell anymore is Elephant white, inside out. Everything has changed. The Ears, I guess I’ll say Elephant Ears! The cinnamon/ equipment is light-years ahead of 1973. The Fairs sugar ones are still the number one seller, but our and Festivals have grown in leaps and bounds.

18

October 2016 NICA News

The business aspect of being on the road has become much more complicated. Expenses have skyrocketed. Government interference has grown with every passing year.

The list is endless. There are many things I wish would change, but if I have to pick one, I would say that I wish the fairs and festivals we deal with had a greater understanding and respect for what we do. So many places don’t realize the amount of work and expense it takes to be a successful Food Concessionaire. As vendors, we put in years, sometimes decades, working hard not only to make our own operations successful, but in helping to make the events we attend more popular and efficient.

No matter what we do, the vast majority of events will not assign a contract of more than one year. This hurts the value of our businesses, makes them difficult to sell, hurts future planning, and creates an uncertain environment for Vendors and events alike. With what we have invested in the equipment and business practices it takes to be a positive, productive part of an event, it sometimes seems as if that contribution is taken lightly. How many times do our locations change or we show up to find that ten more food trailers have been added to a Fair that is already overbooked? I’m lucky in the fact that we have worked most of our spots for over four decades and have a good relationship with them. Not all Vendors are so lucky.

Multi-year contracts and Vendor Committees at Fairs and Festivals are the most helpful things we as Concessionaires can ask for to deal with the ever increasing number of things we must deal with to survive. NICA has been effective at addressing these concerns. I hope this trend continues.

NN: What’s been the highlight of your career?

RW: This is a tough question. I’m proud that our business has been successful for over four decades. The number of people who have worked for us to help pay for their education is important to me. A lot of college degrees have the scent of grease and sugar on them! I’m grateful that we have a business where our kids (and now grandkids) get a chance to learn what hard work is by standing side by side with Dixie and I as we plug away, although I don’t plug much anymore.

I guess most of the last 46 years on the road has

One of Withers Concessions’ Elephant Ear stands

been a highlight.

NN: What’s been the most influential to your One of the Campbell’s corn dog stands personal or business success in the past five years?

RW: For me, the most influential thing over the last few years has been the opportunity to transition from Food Concessionaire to teacher. Time takes its toll and after many years on the road, I realized that seven-day weeks and 16-18 hour days needed to be in my rearview mirror. I finally got to go to college (yes, even the old man has cinnamon and sugar on his diploma) and have transitioned into my dream job of teaching college level courses on American History, as well as some other subjects. I teach for Indiana University and Ivy Tech Community College. I also published a book in 2013, with at least one more in progress.

I now sleep in my own bed every night, even in the summer! I also take phone calls from various kids where I fix fryers, coke machines, carbonators, and mixers long-distance. Ain’t life grand?

NN: What’s the funniest thing that has happened in your concession career or through your travels?

RW: Well, there’s the time I arrived to set up a trailer at the Nappanee Apple Festival only to wait for two hours for someone to put me on location.

A police officer finally pointed out that I was a week early. There’s the time I took a nap outside the trailer at the Three Rivers Festival only to wake up with a sign around my neck courtesy of my employees that read, “Caution: do not disturb. Ogre sleeping.” There’s the week I spent in Sarasota with two pregnant women and no A/C.

►► “Concessionaire” continued on page 21 October 2016 NICA News

19

the Northeast Report Jessica Gottsche, Northeast Council Coordinator

August was a busy, active month for the Northeast Regional Council. We set a goal of growing our council, and to recruit two new representatives, to bring out total to five.

The Northeast Council representatives are Russ Harrison, CCE, Rudy’s, Inc., Kelly Grout, Jack’s Fries, Vinnie Nelson, Vinnie’s Fine Foods, Eddie Porcelli, III, Spaghetti Eddie, and Tonio Viscuso, Angela’s International.

While the Council Members are busy holding gift card raffles at various Fairs throughout their routes, Jessica has been visiting members at a couple of events. In late August, Jessica visited the Champlain Valley Fair in Essex Junction, VT, and the Cummington Fair, in Cummington, MA. At the Champlain Valley Fair, Jessica met with the Fair’s Executive Director Timothy Shea, and the Sales and Marketing Manager Shawn Quinn. Jessica and Shawn spent some time talking about the purpose and direction of the Northeast Regional Council and of NICA. While at the Fair, Jessica was also able to begin recruiting a few non-members, and talking to them about considering joining NICA. She also stopped

by Jack’s Fries and met with Council Member Kelly Grout to do some planning for the rally on September 13, 2016.

At the Cummington Fair, Jessica met with a couple of former members of NICA about rejoining the Association as we move forward.

Work during the rest of the month focused on developing sponsorship money for the rally, so that we are able to keep the event free for our members to attend. A big thank you goes out to Osterman Propane, F & W Concessions, Strates Fine Foods, Commercial Distributing, Williams Distributing, Eastern States Exposition (The Big E), NICA West, NICA, Fare Foods, and Lattitude Restaurant for their support of our first annual event! Check out next month’s NICA News for more coverage.

As we head to the Fall, we will be working on a presentation for an upcoming fair convention or meeting in the Northeast. If you have any topics that you would like us to consider, questions about the Council, or are interested 20

October 2016 NICA News

Northeast Council Member Kelly Grout, Jack’s Fries, and Jessica Castro, Northeast Council Coordinator at the Champlain Valley Fair with their applications ready!

in getting more involved, please reach out to any of the Council Members or to Jessica Gottsche, Northeast Council Coordinator, at NortheastNICA@hotmail.com. We look forward to your input! ▲

NIoCz.ARefill 32 Bottle!

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Consider multiple bottle pricing by reducing the sale price for 2 or more bottles.

This annual sponsorship also benefits the NICA Educational Scholarship Program.

We Deliver!

Call Fare Foods at 1-800-651-6101 to place orders & arrange deliveries

farefoods.com

Call Joe Betras at 1-864-542-4345 for blanket & large order information

jbetras@whirleydrinkworks.com

“Concessionaire” continued from page 19 ►► Now that was hilarious! Those of you who know me realize I could (and do) go on for a loooong time so I’ll stop it there.

NN: What’s something you like to do in your free time?

RW: I’m a musician and play in six different bands.

I also read a lot and love old movies. My wife also finds the occasional job for me to do. I don’t know what you mean by “free time.”

NN: What’s something you’re looking forward to this year?

RW: We always look forward to the day the last trailer goes in the barn and the door shuts after another great season. The pace of life slows until the next spring when the doors open back up, the grease begins to flow in our veins, and the road calls once again.

NN: Is there anything else you’d like to share with NICA Members?

RW: We are part of a unique lifestyle, one that is difficult to abandon once it is embraced. Time and fatigue have finally put me on the sidelines, NN: What do you like best about NICA? but no matter how much I want to stay on that RW: NICA is truly the voice for the Independent sideline, the pull will always be there to head out Concessionaire. We speak louder and more on the road. I have been lucky to be a part of this efficiently when we do it with one voice and NICA industry. I got to meet some of the best people on is the leader in achieving better communication the planet during the journey. What more can a between the Vendor and Event. man ask?

NN: Do you use any of the NICA Benefits? If so, We face difficult choices these days. My hope how has your experience been? is that the next generation of Vendors enjoys the RW: Three of my daughters received NICA same opportunity and success that Dixie and I Scholarships to aid them in college. I’m grateful have experienced. I believe NICA can help ensure for that help! We use both the Coca-Cola and that our industry thrives. Keep up the good work Pepsi discounts on a regular basis. They save us a (just don’t call me to fix your carbonator)! ▲ substantial amount each year. We couldn’t survive without our NICA card.

“Association Announcements” continued from page 13 ►►

Read & Win Program Gaining Steam in St. Louis April Larson with the Hibbing Public Library in Hibbing, MN writes: “This year, I had the privilege of heading up the Read & Win Program with the St. Louis County Fair and it’s been very exciting to be able to work with 16 other libraries in the Arrowhead Library System. Kids that join the Read & Win Program can earn prizes from their local library just by reading library books and tracking their progress. To earn the full slate of prizes, they must read at least 1,000 pages or 40 library books.

Prizes will be awarded in increments of either 250 pages or 10 books.

They can earn up to $25 in free coupons a free pop, hot dog, gate pass, and a free ride midway ride for the St. Louis County Fair. All of this just for reading. This is sponsored by the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) and the National Independent Concessionaires Association (NICA), Todd Armstrong Show, which locally includes; Schweiby’s Concessions, St. Louis County Fair Board and Fraboni’s.”

Do you have any Read & Win news to share? Contact the NICA Office at (813) 438-8926 and we will include it in an upcoming issue. ▲ October 2016 NICA News

21

Put On Your Best Fair Face Rey O’Day, West Council Executive Manager

Dave Yonan, Space Age Food Concessions, out enjoying the night air at the Ventura County Fair

The Sanders family: Thomas, Scott, Carol, and Austen of B & J Concessions

Brett Enright, Juicy’s Concessions, relaxing for a few minutes

Chris Lopez, RCS, Rey O’Day, West Council Executive Manager, Ken Karns, CFE, OC Fair VP Operations, Guy leavitt, RCS

Dominic Palmieri, Odyssey Foods, with a “selfie”

Ryan Needham, Ryan Needham Concessions, and Jon Baker, CEO, Pima County Fair

Bob Jackson, Jackson Enterprises, Mark Hill, Olde Tyme Ice Cream, Dan Lusenhop, Jeanne’s Artichokes, and Mike Davis, Toucan Enterprises, sharing stories

22

October 2016 NICA News

Mike and Brittany Peterson, Sippers and More, enjoying a night out

Teresa Brander and her daughter Lillie, Brander Enterprises, Brandy Arredondo, Noel’s Foods, Ann Dyer, The Original Australian Battered Potatoes

Dave and Susan Holmes, Fruit Caboose, and Howard Lindsey, Lindsey Concessions, enjoying the fellowship of the OC Fair Awards Dinner

Brenda and Jeff Ames, John Farnum, Wax Hand Jive, Jose Quintero, Ames Concessions, on the day they joined NICA at JLQ Concessions, Mike Davis, Toucan the Western Idaho Fair Enterprises, enjoying some fruit cups

Clint Mullin, Clint’s Lemonade, with Mike Newman, Ryann’s Happy Day Pony Ride

Lisa Baker-Thompson, Lisa’s Concessions and West Council Member, cooking up hot dogs

Scott Swanson, Event Food Services USA, Steve Vartanian, Lori’s Concessions, and Dane Baldwin, D & D County Fair Cinnamon Rolls at OC Fair

Kim Barr, Pacific Crest Concessions and West Council Member, with her son Matthew and his girlfriend Lynn McCallum

October 2016 NICA News

23

It’s Our Time of Year!

Rey O’Day, West Council Executive Manager We know Fairs happen all year; however, June, July, August and September create a HUGE Fair season… one that is truly “our time of year!”

For me it was time to go north and explore some new fairs and meet some new members.

Yolo County Fair is north of Sacramento, CA and is the only Free Gate Fair in California. Fair CEO Rita Moore expressed, “Fairgoers should be able to spend their money where they want to and a free gate allows that to happen. It also provides an easy opportunity to come for meals, leave, and come back to shop or visit exhibits.”

Rey O’Day, West Council Executive Manager speaking to the rally regarding NICA’s benefits

NICA staff or leadership before. General Manager Dane Dugan believes in “seat and eat” locations throughout the Fair. He also has landscaped the entrance to every building on the grounds.

His team built a new front gate that showcases West Council Members Mike Newman public art Yolo County Fair and April Wood and Board Member Dan representing the North Idaho Fair and Rodeo General Manager Dane Dugan Lusenhop are ready to welcome their CEO Rita Moore major industries NICA Rally guests at Yolo County Fair is the first arrival of Idaho. He removes hand written signs and has West Council Members April Wood, Rawlings the common sense to charge less rent for year Concessions and Mike Newman, Ryann’s Happy round events than for the Fair, at which the allDay Pony Rides, were joined by NICA Board inclusive rent is 20%. “That keeps the food prices Member Dan Lusenhop, Jeanne’s Artichokes, reasonable.” to host a NICA Rally and Survival Kit fundraiser.

Ed White, White’s They each spoke about their positive experience Concessions, one of being NICA Members and Rey O’Day, West our long time members Council Executive Manager, reviewed NICA has been the NICA benefits and encouraged joining. The fellowship Representative for and fundraising successfully helped NICA grow Idaho. He is passing the Welcome to the North Idaho in members, mantle to his son Nick Fair and Rodeo understanding, who was enormously and resources. helpful introducing me to other members and We thank April, possible new members. He shared ideas for NICA Mike and Dan for and hopes to be part of its future for a long time. donating their They believe in time and money professionalism to NICA. and understand Next stop that we are in the Michael Bliss and Kara was the North entertainment Moederndorfer, Sleek Greek, Idaho Fair business. becoming new NICA Members and Rodeo I traveled south Nick and Ed White, White’s in Coeur d’Alene, ID, a charming Fair where we to the Western Concessions, present and past have members who had never met anyone from NICA Representatives Idaho Fair where 24

October 2016 NICA News

Bob Batista is the CEO. He observed about smart phones: “they came into our lives, but they have always been part of our next generation of fairgoers lives. The future is building Fairs that are completely connected to and interactive Bob Batista, CEO of with smartphones.”

Western Idaho Fair The Commercial Exhibit program is one of the healthiest I have seen at any Fair: a good mix; well placed inside and outside; looks robust, yet orderly; and no empty spaces.

The balance of Carnival, Food, Exhibits, shopping, and entertainment provide for a good length of stay that translates into strong per capita spending from the Fairgoers. He has been there for 18 years paying attention to the basics: clean, well lit, good information, people feel safe, and free parking. Priceless!

West Council Member Kim Barr, Pacific Crest Concessions, was ready with a list of new members to meet and longtime members to visit.

By the way, she cooks up some very tasty stirfry noodles in an outdoor stand that is so clean you could eat off the dirt! (Not really, but it is clean!)

West Council Member Kim Barr While here, I saw and West Council Executive Manager Rey O’Day plotting out the most creative the plan for the day food product of my travels this season: the ice cream potato. It looks exactly like a baked potato with sour cream and all; only it is made of ice cream and tastes like a delicious sundae!

My last stop in the Northwest was the Oregon State Fair where I experienced THE Idaho Ice my first and only rainstorm Cream Potato of the season. Oregonians are ready for rain; they got out of the way and when the sun came out, they were all still there to enjoy the rest of the day. CEO Mike Paluszak and Fair Manager Don Hillman are refreshing this Fair with a new governance structure, new layout, new Vendors, and a new vision to strengthen the

Dan Reyes, Source1 Purchasing, Wayne Petersen, Oregon State Fair Director of Operations, Dan Lusenhop, Jeanne’s Artichokes and NICA Board Member

Fair’s core events. A thank you to Western Fairs Association for a tasty lunch!

Board Member Dan Lusenhop, Jeanne’s Artichokes, Dan Reyes, Source1 Purchasing, Jackie Bradbury, Sweet Cheeks, and I met and brainstormed about what is working and how to improve the NICA / Sysco Marketplace Rey O’Day, West Council Executive Manager, and Jackie Bradbury, program. We Sweet Cheeks know when the Master Associate, Purchaser, and Transportation folks work as one team, our members receive dependable service. We have also noticed that clusters of Concessionaires tend to travel a route together.

When the Sysco Operating Companies (OpCo’s) on that route collaborate together, there is less risk for Adrian Alvarez, Manager of them, more sales, and the possibility of Big Bubba’s Bad BBQ is a big supporter of the NICA / more efficient product Sysco Marketplace buying. New Playbooks with operating procedures and member ID cards have come from earlier conversations. This conversation was in preparation for our annual business /agreement review in late November.

All of these Fairs are growing and our Membership is growing with them. Serving our Fairgoers with forward thinking, quality products, and sincere customer service is the glue that holds us all together! ▲ October 2016 NICA News

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October 2016 NICA News

CLC Lodging Saves NICA Members Money on Workforce Lodging If you are staying in a hotel tonight, next week, or next month you can enroll in the CLC Lodging program and start saving 20% to 40% on hotel rooms. In addition to the deeply discounted savings, members will also enjoy the other benefits of the NICA/CLC Hotel Savings Card: • • • • • • •

Walk-in availability No minimum usage or contracts 24/7/365 Traveler Support Center assistance Stay details posted to online account for easy tracking 24-hour length of stay Standard cancellation policies Last-room availability

This member benefit requires no upfront cost and will help members save on what they are already doing! Unlike Priceline or Hotels.com, the NICA/CLC Hotel Savings card allows members to save big without pre-paying. Members can choose the hotel they want and the savings are guaranteed.

It’s Easy to Join!

Call toll-free at 866-857-9747, Option 1 or visit us online at www.clclodging.com/nica and use the key code “NICA” to waive the one-time $9.95 membership fee.

It’s Easy to Use! NICA members log onto their CLC Web Account where they can manage their lodging arrangements and expenses, locate CLC hotels, and find their member rates. When NICA members check into a hotel, they simply present their NICA Hotel Savings Card at the front desk in lieu of a major payment card to receive discounted member rates. CLC Lodging charges the traveler’s major payment card for the stay. The only cost is a $4.95/per night transaction fee, which is usually a small fraction of what you can save! Reservations are available, but not required. For the travelers on the go we also have apps for iPhone, iPad and Android tablets and phones. ▲

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

Complete supply of all concession products!

• Meats • Produce • Frozen Items • Dry Goods • Canned Goods • Paper Products • Fun Foods • Custom Printed Cups

appreciate consistent delivery of product

Call and Speak with a Customer Service Representative Today!

to their events throughout the year.

1-800-651-1601

COMPLETE SUPPLY OF ALL CONCESSION PRODUCTS! Meat

Produce

Frozen Items

Dry Goods

Canned Goods

Paper Products

Fun Food

Custom Printed Cups October 2016 NICA News

27

Fa re Foods

2016 Membership Contest Leaderboard* General Membership Vinnie Valentino....................................................................3 Faith McGee...........................................................................2 Carmel Dyer-Pittroff..............................................................2 Janie Miller............................................................................2 Etta Pence, CCE.....................................................................2 Mitch Zinder..........................................................................2 Jon Baker...............................................................................1 Jody Conklin..........................................................................1 Don Delahoyde, CCE..............................................................1 Jerome Hertel........................................................................1 Robert Hutchins....................................................................1 Stephanie Janousek.............................................................1 Larry McConnell, CCE............................................................1 Kevin McGrath, CCE..............................................................1 Rhonda Miller........................................................................1 Henry Mitchell.......................................................................1 Edward Porcelli, III.................................................................1 Carol Sanders........................................................................1 Robert Santorelli...................................................................1 Craig Sawyer.........................................................................1 Terri Shell...............................................................................1 Jim Sinclair............................................................................1 Lori Southerland....................................................................1 Jack Sturgeon.......................................................................1 Jack Woods, II.......................................................................1 Charles Zell, CCE...................................................................1

Northeast & West Councils Russ Harrison, CCE...............................................................4 Nate Janousek......................................................................3 Kim Barr.................................................................................2 Ashley Murray.......................................................................2 Mike Newman........................................................................2 Dale Smith, CCE.....................................................................1 Lisa Thompson-Baker..........................................................1 Jay Wells................................................................................1 April Wood.............................................................................1

Board of Directors Kathy Ross............................................................................8 Dan Lusenhop.......................................................................6 Dominic Palmieri...................................................................6 Jennifer Giordano..................................................................2 Daryl Whicheloe, CCE............................................................2 Sandy Class...........................................................................1

Administration Office....................................................................................24

*See the back cover for rules and prizes

Facebook.com/nicainc • @nicainc Friend, follow, like, message, and share with us!

October 2016 NICA News

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2016-17 Events Calendar

Representing NICA & Its Industry Partners October 1: CCE Applications Due in the office 10: Directory Updates due in the office 21-22: Oregon Fairs Association Convention • Albany, OR 26-28: Washington State Fairs Association Annual Convention • Vancouver, WA

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

30

October 2016 NICA News

14-18: IAAPA Attractions Expo 2016 • Orlando, FL 16-18: CAFE Annual Convention • Fredericton, NB 14-18: Dakota Fairs Annual Convention • Minot, ND 24: Thanksgiving (Office Closed) 11/27-12/1: 126th Annual IAFE Convention and Trade Show featuring NICA Board of Directors Meeting, Industry Appreciation Reception, and more!

• Las Vegas, NV

December 9-11: Association of Iowa Fairs Convention • Des Moines, IA

25: Christmas Day (Office Closed)

January 1: New Year’s Day (Office Closed) 5-7: NC Association of Agricultural Fairs Convention • Durham, NC 5-7: VA Association of Fairs Convention • Hot Springs, VA 5-8: OH Fair Managers Association Convention • Columbus, OH Although these dates are based on sources believed to be reliable and true, they are subject to changes due to cancellation, rescheduling, or other reasons throughout the year. Additional or revised dates may be announced in future issues of NICA News or at www.nicainc.org under our calendar section. Have a great month of October!

National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc. 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 Phone: 813-438-8926 • Fax: (813)438-8928 Email: nica@nicainc.org • Website: www.nicainc.org

For Office Use Only

Date: #:

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 :

Email:

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, detailed, and complete as possible. Information provided below will be used for your entry in the annual NICA Membership Directory and as keywords to search for your business on the NICA website.

Annual Membership Fees Independent Concession Membership

Associate Membership

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

q q q q q

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

Voting:

Non-Voting:

q Employee................................................................................$ 5 0 q Retired....................................................................................$50 Concession Business / Group Membership

Includes five memberships in one: one Independent Concessionaire, one Additional Member, and three Employee Members ($350 value).

q Concession Business / Group..........................................$300 Additional Member : _________________________________________ Employee Member 1: ________________________________________ Employee Member 2: ________________________________________ Employee Member 3: ________________________________________ Check a category below and provide a detailed description of your company’s services below:

q q q

Commercial Exhibitors / Retail Attractions / Entertainment Services

q q

Fair / Festival over 75,000 attendance.......................... $125 Fair / Festival under 75,000 attendance...........................$75 Manufacturer / Distributor / Supplier............................ $125 Carnival / Circus Operator................................................ $125 Special Services................................................................ $125

Business Description

Provide a detailed description of your business, products, and/or services below:

________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________

Food Games

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

Concessionaire General Routing Information

List all states / provinces where you conduct your concession business:

_____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ Fairs and Festivals

Credit Card #: Security Code:

Expiration Date:

TOTAL:

List three Fairs or Festivals worked in the past year :

1. __________________________________________________________ 2. __________________________________________________________ 3. __________________________________________________________ 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.

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.

Applicant’s signature

Date

Beneficiary ________________________________________ Phone ___________________

National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc. 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 Time Sensitive Mail • October 2016 Issue

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