November 2022 NICA News

This Month’s Newest Members

Michael Bleau EventHub

Seattle, WA

Jay Bohannon

Camas Concessions, LLC Portland, OR

Larry Brewer

Libbertt Concessions Indianapolis, IN

Dillon Buscay

AWM Concessions Layton, UT

Preston Devenney

Signature Concessions Erie, PA

Doug Dycus

Shelby D’s Oven Baked Pizza Oakdale, CA

William Horstman

Horstman Concessions Mercer, PA

Robby Ingalls

Ingalls Concessions Mason, MI

Brittany Moran Generations Concessions Columbus, WI

Daniel Ohlemacher Ohlemacher’s Wisconsin Meat & Cheese Products Auburn, IN

Mairin Petrone

Pittsburgh Irish Festival, Inc. Pittsburgh, PA

Steven Randell

Steve’s Smokin BBQ Traverse City, MI

Andrew Ross

Ross Concessions Dunnellon, FL

Carolyn Ross Ross Concessions Dunnellon, FL

Trent Wilkes Wilkes Concessions Linton, IN

This Month’s Member Renewals

Debra Bates

Original Pineapple Whip Porter, OK (2002)

Tiffany Burrow-Loushin

Alameda County Fair Pleasanton, CA (2014)

Thomas Carnahan Carnahan Concessions Stormville, NY (2003)

Jan Cates

The Cates Company Perrysville, OH (2009)

Matt Cranston

A & M Concessions River Falls, WI (2019)

Fran Crone SW Florida & Lee County Fair North Fort Myers, FL (1997)

Don Crutchfield Don Crutchfield Concessions Brookston, TX (2007)

Patty Dee µ

Miami-Dade County Youth Fair & Exposition Miami, FL (1993)

Carolyn Dick Red Beards Hot Sauce Huntington Beach, CA (2021)

Chris Forbing Forbing Concessions Ft. Wayne, IN (1996)

Kelly Grout

Jack’s Fries Ware, MA (2014)

Cathy Grout

KC Concessions Ware, MA (2019)

Doug Guinsler

Carousel Concessions Zanesville, OH (1996)

Clayton Hall Hot Concession Services Inc Waco, TX (2012)

Paul Hohenwald Coasters Oakdale, MN (2019)

J. Keith Hoover Pork Chop Express Adairville, KY (2013)

Phillip Hull Hull Concessions, LLC Waco, TX (2007)

Jim Johnson Johnson Concessions / Southern Tier Show Salamanca, NY (2017)

Bill Johnson

Fantasy Amusement Company / Arlington’s Best Concessions Prospect Heights, IL (2010)

Susan Kuzma

Saskatoon Prairieland Park Saskatoon, SK (2009)

Mark Massey

Mark Massey Concessions Germantown, KY (2009)

Fran McLellan

McLellan’s Concessions / The Shrimp Shack Hudson, WI (2021)

Gabriel Munoz

Gabby’s Kettle Corn Yakima, WA (2021)

Rick Oxford Televac Products Versailles, MO (2005)

Kevin Patterson Red Barn Productions Navato, CA (2018)

Jeff Ross, CCE Ross Concessions Dunnellon, FL (1997)

Samantha Sankovich

G & G Concessions Baraboo, WI (2021)

Jon Tartaglia Washington State Fair Puyallup, WA (2000)

Jeremy Solem

Solem Concessions, Inc. Rochester, MN (2016)

Rodney Spivey

Spivey’s Southern Grill, Inc. Plant City, FL (2011)

Max Stabel

Ranch House Concessions LLC Menard, TX (2018)

Paula Struble, CFE Erie County Fair Hamburg, NY (2013)

Richard Valentine Jac & Do’s Pizza Tiffin, OH (2003)

Mary Wagner, CCE µ Treat Truck, Inc. Hampton, MN (1993)

Brady Waite GoCashless Corp Napa, CA (2009)

Jay Wells, CCE Wells Concession Wichita, KS (2002)

Gary Willson

Midstate-Cookers Wilson, KS (2015)

Carla Wood Carl’s Concessions, LLC Johnston, IA (2019)

Randi Yoder µ Elkhart County Fair Goshen, IN (1993)

P R eside NT ’s MessageP R eside NT ’s Message

Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, President

Can you believe we are already in November? It is the time of the year where Fair Season transitions into Convention Season. NiCA and its membership, like everyone, has had an interesting year filled with lots of challenges, struggles, and frustrations. We have especially struggled with the same lack of labor and supply chain issues we had last year. What I have seen this year over and over again is an Industry that has really embraced the problems and issues we are dealing with, and banded together to help each other. I have heard so many great stories about every aspect of our Industry stepping up and finding solutions and resources to whatever the problems were.

I would like to also recognize our newly elected Board Members: Jacqueline Bradbury, CCE, Bryan Enloe, and Jeff Thornberry, CCE. Thank you for your dedication to NiCA as an organization, and thank you to all voting Members for your participation and support in the election process.

If you are able to make it to NiCA Marketplace, “Together!” let me be the first to welcome you to Vegas. This Convention is packed full of content for Concessionaires, Commercial Exhibitors, Fair Food Staff, and Commercial Exhibits Coordinators. This is going to be a great event to learn, share experience and benefit from all the sessions, roundtables, and programming associated with our part of the Industry.

We are grateful for our many Sponsors who made this event possible: Coca-Cola, entegra, eventHub, Forever Concession trailers, Galaxy Amusement Supply, GoCashless, Hummel Group, Mattress Firm, Odyssey Foods, rickey’s Jerky, Schantz Manufacturing, Smithfield/Farmland, Sysco, Webster enterprises, Whirley-drinkWorks! and Wings of Fame Productions. In addition, thank you to Kim Barr, CCE, 2nd vice President, Bryan Enloe, director elect, and Tom Hodson, CCE, director, for sponsoring the complimentary bus trip for Marketplace attendees to join the

Sysco Warehouse tour, Don Delahoyde, CCE, Past President, for the NiCA-branded Corn Hole board that will be on display, Chestnut identity Apparel and Fiserv for Pick-a-ticket items, OCC Signs for signage, and Neal Dorfman, Popcorn Neal, for storage. I, along with, Vincent Nelson, CCE, 1st vice President, are sponsoring the Closing General Session and toast. We are also very thankful that Coca-Cola is our Premier Sponsor. Alyssa Ownby, Coca-Cola, said, “We are honored to continue being a NICA Sponsor and support NICA in whatever way we possibly can. We appreciate this strong longstanding partnership. We thank the NICA Members for their extremely welcoming and positive attitudes, but also their continued partnership with Coca-Cola I wanted to be sure to support NICA in this new event.”

We have always been a group that helps each other, more than most, but we have typically helped in our own small circles. Concessionaires help fellow Concessionaires, Fairs help other Fairs, Carnivals work with Carnivals, and so on. In the new world that we find ourselves in, those old boundaries no longer seem to matter compared to helping each other to finish the work that must be done. We’re all in this “Together!” and I have seen that demonstrated time and time again this year.

NiCA’s motto is “Together We Can!” and more than ever as an Industry we are definitely better when we work together. I hope you all had a successful and prosperous year and I look forward to seeing many of you as we start our Convention Season. ▲

O FFICERS

President: Daryl Whicheloe, CCE

1st Vice President: Vincent Nelson, CCE

2nd Vice President: Kim Barr, CCE

Treasurer: Dan Lusenhop

Secretary: Jacqueline Bradbury, CCE

D IRECTORS

Brandy Arredondo, CCE

Phil Delahoyde

Kelly Grout

Thomas Hodson, CCE

Stacey Pittroff-Barona

Jeff Thornberry, CCE Jay Wells, CCE

PAST P RESIDENTS ’

C O u NCIL

Sandy Class, CCE

Don Delahoyde, CCE Kathy Ross, CCE

Dan Lusenhop

Dominic Palmieri, CCE

Paulette Keene, CCE

Joe Potillo, Jr.

Greg Miller, CCE

Tom Sattler, CCE

Russ Harrison, CCE

Richard Busse, CCE

Tom Hodson, CCE

Jim Hodson, CCE (Deceased) Tim O’Brien, CCE Ron Smith

Adam McKinney, CCE Mike Pence, CCE

Jack Woods, II, CCE

Bob Hallifax, CCE Frank Parnell, CCE Larry Orme (Deceased)

Larry Sivori

Rich Wright

Bill McKinney, CCE

Arthur Pokorny, Jr. Gene O’Brien, CCE (Deceased)

OFFICE STAFF

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

Office & Membership Manager : Linda Frisco nica@nicainc.org

Communications & Marketing

Manager • NICA News Editor : Jesse Willard communications@nicainc.org

East Council Coordinator & Social Media Coordinator : Jessica Gottsche jessica@nicainc.org

Midwest Council Coordinator : Dennis Larson, CFE dennis@nicainc.org

Event Planning Coordinator : Kathy Ross, CCE nicamarketplace@nicainc.org

F O u NDATION

President: Audrey Poole

Vice President: Greg Miller, CCE

Treasurer : Jennifer Giordano, CCE

Secretary : Rey O’Day

Trustees: Kim Barr, CCE

Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, CCE Mark Lancaster

Don Kenna

Vincent Nelson, CCE Larry Sivori

EAST C O u NCIL

Bary Bunts, CCE

Ryan Collmer

Ryan Hagy

Thomas Hodson, CCE

Patty Tessari

Michael Zdebiak, Jr.

M IDWEST C O u NCIL

Connie Boesen

Sandy Class, CCE James McConnell

Richie O’Neil

Matt Ribar

Brad Schroder

April Smith

W EST C O u NCIL

Michelle Allen

Brandy Arredondo, CCE

Jodi Dirksen

Irene Dugan

Jan Gary, CCE

Gigi Horowitz

Ryan Long

Kara Moederndorfer, CCE

Ryann Newman

Steve Vartanian

MCGOWAN ALLIED

in the art of insuring

Allied Specialty

d

R ec T o R ’s Voiced i R ec T o R ’s Voice

Kelly Grout, Director

Well, the season is winding down. I didn’t think that we could ever top last year, but this season has proven to be bigger and better. Not only have the crowds come out but they came with money in their pockets. It certainly defines our theme of “Thriving!” in 2022.

But as supply chain shortages continue and the price of goods is still climbing even higher, it has put a real hurting on all our pockets. This year has brought all new shortages of goods, too. As we struggle to get goods to make our products now, we struggle to keep equipment like trucks and trailers rolling, as the parts to maintain and repair, like almost everything, have run out. There is hope for relief on the horizon, as some supply chain problems have slowed down since the Summer according to Industry reports, but experts remain skeptical due to inflation remaining high. American Shipper recently observed, “If the supply chain crunch was such a major driver of inflation, why are so many indicators pointing to an easing of supply chain pressures at the same time inflation remains exceptionally high? One theory is that supply chain pressures are indeed easing, but they’re still way above pre-COVID levels. In other words, the supply chain crunch is not over yet, so the positive payoff for inflation is yet to come.”

Staffing shortages are still very real as no one wants to work. Foreign labor programs such as H-2B are not able to fill the need either, as the caps are typically filled very quickly from year-toyear. According to Business insider, “Labor force participation is still about 1% below its February 2020 levels, according to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and it’s remained persistently lower than Pre-Pandemic levels even as the country regains all of the jobs it lost during the Pandemic.” The bright news is that on October 12, 2022, the department of Homeland Security announced plans to release nearly 65,000 additional H-2B for fiscal year 2023, for a total of more than 130,000 H-2B visas. Hopefully that can show a little bit of relief to the labor shortage. But

Growing benefits

hey, it’s almost the end of the season and we can all put this behind us and pray for a more normal season someday soon.

With the current state of the economy, I am glad that NiCA has dedicated benefit programs for us to save money. This year I am a member of the Benefits Committee, which focuses each year on growing and improving NICA Benefit programs, as well as increasing their value and range as a part NiCA’s Strategic Planning Goals. After successful launches of Goodyear, entegra, NiCA Health Plan, and Supplies on the Fly programs over the last year, we are searching for even more benefits. NiCA’s Member Survey from last year indicated fuel, shipping, vehicle, and rental programs were among the most desired new benefits. We are currently pursuing companies that will assist in these areas, and will update you as soon as we have made progress.

To stay up to date on our benefits, we encourage you to utilize our updated Benefits Guide, which is provided in New Member packets and online at www.nicainc.org/benefits. This guide gives you a “How To” on every benefit that we offer. Once enrolled in some programs such as Coca-Cola, entegra, Fiserv, Goodyear, Pepsi, and Sysco, a representative will be assigned to you for all future orders and inquiries. Of course, this is not to mention the availability for members to apply to the NiCA Foundation Scholarship Program, First timer’s Convention Scholarship, and the CCe Program. We have quite a few options for our members to use that more than make up the cost of your membership!

As we are coming home, we are also getting ready for Convention time and planning to check out the all-new NiCA show in Vegas: NiCA Marketplace, “Together!” November 6-9, 2022. The Board of directors then meets at the iAFe Convention, November 27-30, 2022, in Indianapolis, IN. We also have the NiCA Business expo and Fare Foods Food Show with the theme “All In!” in Tampa, FL, February 13-15, 2023, followed by OABA during Florida Week

I’m going to end with the wise words, “Keep your family close and enjoy life.” See you soon!

Riffi N g Wi T h Rey

Riffi N g Wi T h Rey

Rey O’Day, Executive Director

So much has happened in my three short (and unexpected) years as NiCA’s executive director. I am going to talk about those things in detail in December because they have been real gifts. Today, the reality is we survived COVID as a family and have

come through this season “Grateful and Thriving!” I could not be happier (or more exhausted) is the 2022 refrain for many of us.

Today I write to you excited!! Welcome to NiCA Marketplace, “Together!” in Las Vegas, Nevada!! This is a project the Board has been working on for most of two years. As I said last month, it is the logical extension of our ten years of Strategic Planning that included becoming a Professional Voice in our beloved Industry. I’m so excited for this to be happening for our Industry; for NiCA; for you; and for me. It is truly the essence of “Together WE Can!”

We begin our event with our General Session, where we will “Think Like Walt!” with the help of our Keynote Speaker Michael Bradley, and learn “What Can NICA Do 4 U?” with the NiCA leadership. This leads into our Educational Workshops, where it is NiCA’s tradition to give out a door prize at every one that we present. Thank you Dominic (cce) and Kim Palmieri, Odyssey Foods, for their door Prize Sponsorship. We will also feature a roundtable luncheon, sponsored by GoCashless, where many important topics will be discussed over lunch.

The NiCA Marketplace trade Show features 32 companies that serve our businesses who are eager to meet you, serve you, and strengthen relationships with you. Talk to them and please support them. We thank eventHub for providing a complimentary drink ticket to attendees for either a beer, glass of wine, or soft drink during Monday night’s Happy Hour.

In addition to visiting Exhibitors, enjoying Happy Hour on Monday and lunch on Tuesday, choosing your favorite Pick-a-ticket opportunity times, throwing a bean bag or two into the Corn

thriving & Grateful!

Hole, and networking, we are holding “How To” Sessions throughout the entire conference, even during the trade Show, in Florentine Room B. Read the on-site schedule for the time of each session, which include “How to Create DocuSign and Fillable Forms,” “How to Order a New Concession Trailer,” “How to Clover,” “How to Fill out the CCE Application,” “How to Use EventHub,” “How to Use the Goodyear Tire Finder,” “How to Sign up for NICA Health Plan,” “How to Work with Propane,” “How to Speak with Confidence,” “How to Safely Move Equipment,” and “How to Say ‘NO’ Professionally.”

Our Tuesday Educational Workshops will culminate in our Closing Session: “What’s On the Horizon? Where Are We Going From Here?” These will be our envisioning themes for the celebration of our first annual NiCA Marketplace, “Together!” Industry leaders will challenge and inspire us and our President Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, and incoming President Vincent Nelson, CCE will toast us into the industry excellence reception, where we will honor our new Certified Concessionaire executives, present a special NiCA Good Neighbor Award to the Wisconsin State Fair and pay homage to all of our Industries’ recognition of excellence: Certified Fair Executive (IAFE), Circle of excellence (OABA) and Certified Concession executive (NICA).

To learn more about this event, we have compiled a comprehensive program, starting on Page 16, to assist you in choosing your own path in experiencing this event. It also features Marketplace exhibitor locations, as well as descriptions and contact information for each one.

Once we have had the chance to be “TOGETHER!” this month, we will see you “ALL IN!” February 13-15, 2023 at the NiCA Business expo and Fare Foods Food Show in Tampa, FL.

Please, remember what happens at NiCA Marketplace, “Together!” does NOT stay in Vegas; it was designed to LEAVE vegas to permeate your communities, Fairs, businesses, families, and lives, with you knowing that “Together We Can Survive and Thrive!!” Big hugs…. ▲

Association Announ C ements

Do you have any announcements you would like to share? Contact us at (813) 438-8926 or nica@nicainc.org

Supporting NICA Foundation Scholarships with AmazonSmile

Do you shop at Amazon? The NiCA Foundation is now registered as a charitable organization with AmazonSmile. By choosing NiCA Foundation on your AmazonSmile account, you can support the NiCA Foundation every time you shop, at no cost to you. When you shop at smile.amazon.com, you’ll find the exact same shopping experience as amazon.com, with the added bonus that Amazon will donate 0.5% of the purchase price to the NiCA Foundation

Supporting the NICA Foundation is Easy

Visit our AmazonSmile link: smile.amazon.com/ch/84-2778496

If you do not yet have a charity selected, select “Start Shopping” on the NiCA Foundation’s AmazonSmile website. If you have already selected a charity, you will be prompted to change it to “NICA Foundation Inc”

Shop on smile.amazon.com. To check if your charity is correct, it will display “Supporting: NICA Foundation Inc” on the top of the website.

0.5% of your purchase may seem like a small amount, but a donation from you in any amount will empower and expand someone’s opportunity to commit to their education. Your kindness and foresight will be used to build the foundation for future students to learn, grow, and THRIVE! ▲

Deadline for Pepsi Rebates is Approaching!

Are you planning to submit for your Pepsi rebate this year? The deadline to submit it is November 30th. Rebate forms are available in the “Resources” area of your Online Member Account, at www.nicainc.org/pepsi, or by contacting the NICA Office. If you need assistance, contact us at (813) 438-8926 or nica@nicainc.org

After filling out the Pepsi rebate Form, send the form along with the copies of each ticket and/or invoice to NiCA’s Pepsi representative Kelly Bisbey via email to kelly.bisbey@pepsico.com or by mail to 11718 Nicklaus Circle, Tampa, FL 33624 Kelly will work with you to ensure you get your 2022 Pepsi rebate Kelly states, “I look forward to working with you. You can reach me via email or on my cell. Happy to assist with any questions and needs that may arise. Thank you!”

If you have questions regarding the process, please reach out to Kelly at (813) 361-9583. In efforts to maintain our current Pepsi national pricing agreement, NiCA highly encourages you to participate in this program. Pepsi utilizes your usage data to measure the program’s overall success. ▲

Wishing a Speedy Recovery to Our Members

We wish for a full and speedy recovery to NiCA Members and their families who have recently undergone surgery or who have had health challenges: Art Carroll, eagle Food Service, Dan Lusenhop, Past President and treasurer, Dennis Larson, CFE, Midwest Council Coordinator, Don Delahoyde, CCE, Past President, and Fred Pittroff, Giant ride. Keep them in your thoughts and prayers at this time. ▲

Member’s Voice

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 renewal Members

Mark Hohenwald, Hohenwald Concessions, of Oakdale, MN, has been a Concessionaire for most of his life. He joked, “I’m looking for my 50year plaque!” He and his wife Cori have been NiCA Members for over six years and have enjoyed their membership: “We appreciate what you do. We are pretty new to being NICA Members, but NICA provides benefits all along the away. We get our rebates from Sysco; that’s one of the big ones! We look forward to the NICA News to see what’s new and get information about what NICA does to make our Fairs and events work better.”

Mark was raised in the business along with his brothers Mike and Paul at the Minnesota State Fair. They owe it all to their father, the late Al Hohenwald. Today the Hohenwalds own and operate a multi-generatonal family business that started out small. Mark explained, “I am second generation myself. My father had been out there for about 72 years and was just 16 when he started working for the legendary burlesque queen gyspy

Rose Lee and sally Rand at the Minnesota State Fair. It was 1949, and he helped set up the ‘ballyhoo front’ that hid the dancer from prying eyes on the Midway, and sold ice-cold bottles of Coca-Cola to the men in the audience. That’s where he started.”

Eventually, after a stint in the Marines and as a police officer, Al and his family returned to the Minnesota State Fair and began their road to Concessions. Mark shared, “I think it’s the best Fair in the country—we grew up there! A stand came up, at first an open seat stand, and I started working there when I was eight or nine. My first job was cleaning out the waste baskets and hosing them out. We served everything on ‘china’ as there was no paper stuff back then, so we had to reuse it.”

As the years went on, the Hohenwald family picked up at least five stands. “They all had different names but they were under one umbrella. Today, we all run our own. My wife, cori, and I run Al’s Malts and Subs, right next to the Giant Slide. We sell malts, ice cream, sub sandwiches, and breakfast items. My brother Mike has Mike’s Hamburgers and Hotdogs, on the other side of the slide, and sells the stand’s namesake as well as French fries. My brother Paul has Coasters Beer Garden, which also contains four food stands, down by the Midway. My brothers’ kids are in the business and they will be taking over the next generation.”

Mark and Cori Hohenwald with their dog Pearl

Al’s Malts and Subs, located at the Minnesota State Fair

Mark Hohenwald, Hohenwald Enterprises

The Hohenwalds mostly stay in Minnesota, but they have also worked at the Wisconsin State Fair, State Fair of louisiana, and the Florida State Fair in the past. Mark said, “It’s usually only two weeks of our life at a time, but we do off-season events as well on the Fairgrounds. We had the largest car show in the world there in June. I think we had over 13,000 cars; it’s crazy!”

Due to the Pandemic, events changed in many ways, but now Mark feels they are on the road to recovery. He stated, “Everyone had to go through COVID and we didn’t have a Fair for a year. We did the Minnesota State Fair Walk-Thru for the last two years and tthat was a good event! Before the Pandemic I think we did 2.2 million in attendance, and this year I think it was 1.7. It’s absolutely getting back to normal, and I rarely see anyone wearing a mask. You have to manage through everything, but we have been fortunate that we have been out there so long and we learned how to ride the waves.”

In their off-time from events, the Hohenwalds all work for Spartan Promotional Group, where many of their customers are friends and fellow Concessionaires they have met while at the Fair.

Mark is grateful to work in the Industry, even after 50 years: “I look forward to it every year. We have our Fair Family out there and everyone knows everybody; they all pitch in and help each other. Working with people is fun; whoever comes to my stand has a smile because they are getting ice cream, and the kids that work for us are great. Sometimes, you look forward to it ending, too!”

Mark concluded on a light note: “Just remember, wherever you go is where you are!”

The NICA Office plans to continue to reach out to our renewing Members. If you hear from us, we’d love to know what’s on your mind! ▲

Mark and Cori Hohenwald sharing a malt on the Fairgrounds

022. Offers valid for First Data customers only. New merchant account required and is subject to credit approval. Requires merchant acceptance of applicable Terms and Conditions and an active NICA Membership. Qualifying merchants will receive a credit of $250, if they purchase rented equipment, which will be applied as a statement credit. Applicable rebates and credits will be issued to your funding account approximately 60-days after the month in which the rebate requirement has been met. First Data is solely responsible for this offer. Offer subject to change without notice. Offer not valid with any other offer. Offer void

expires June 30, 2022. Offers valid for First Data customers only. New merchant account required and is subject to credit approval. Requires merchant acceptance of applicable Terms and Conditions and an active NICA Membership. Qualifying merchants will receive a credit of $250, if they purchase rented equipment, which will be applied as a statement credit. Applicable rebates and credits will be issued to your funding account approximately 60-days after the month in which the rebate requirement has been met. First Data is solely responsible for this offer. Offer subject to change without notice. Offer not valid with any other offer. Offer void where prohibited.

2022 Clover Network, Inc. All rights reserved. The Clover name, logo and related trademarks are owned by Clover Network, Inc., and are registered or used in the U.S. and many foreign countries.

2022 Clover Network, Inc. All rights reserved. The Clover name, logo and related trademarks are owned by Clover Network, Inc., and are registered or used in the U.S. and many foreign countries.

service marks and trade names referenced in this

trademarks, service marks and trade names referenced in this material are the property of their respective owners.

9504 2022-1

What is the CCE Program?

The Certified Concessionaire Executive (CCE) Program was developed to recognize the professionalism of Concessionaires. Before applying, the applicant must have a minimum of seven years as a full-time Chief Operating Manager of an Independent Concession Business and be a current member of NiCA, at least one State Association, and of one of the following associations: iAFe, iFeA, OABA and/or WFA. The applicant must then complete a questionnaire and a 150-200 word personal philosophy of communication and management as it relates to the Fair Industry. Visit the CCe website to learn more and apply online: www.nicainc.org/CCE

Welcome to NiCA Marketplace, “Together!” In 48 hours you will network with colleagues, discuss practical solutions, enjoy storytelling, and return enriched. “Together We Can!”

This inaugural event* will feature a nonexclusive Trade Show with 32 Exhibitors, 14 Educational Workshops led by hands-on Event Industry Thought Leaders, 10 “How To” Sessions led by Experts, 8 Roundtable Topics, and Networking Opportunities that are welcome and comfortable—a place where we all understand we are Customers

of each other and “Together” we share a Fair Guest to serve. We also invite you to join us by bus ride for the Sysco Warehouse tour on Wednesday, November 9, 2022. Sysco will offer a FREE facility tour, a product showcase, and a light lunch to all who attend.

The event will be held at the beautiful tuscany Suites and Casino, Las Vegas, NV, within walking distance to the Strip. Outside the event, you can enjoy amenities including daily entertainment featuring the rat Pack, dining, lounges, spa, pools, and more. See you in Vegas!

Sunday, November 6, 2022

2:00 – 7:00 PM: NICA Marketplace Registration and Hospitality Siena and Tuscany Evening on your own

Monday, November 7, 2022

7:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Registration

9:30 – 10:45 AM: Marketplace Opening General Session

11:00 AM – 12:15 PM: Educational Workshops

11:00 AM – 8:00 PM: “How To” Sessions

12:30 – 2:00 PM: Roundtables and Lunch

Florentine Lobby

Florentine Ballroom A

Florentine Rooms E and F

Florentine Room B

Siena and Tuscany

2:15 – 4:45 PM: Educational Workshops Florentine Rooms B, E and F

5:00 – 8:30 PM: Marketplace Trade Show and Happy Hour Florentine Ballroom C Evening on your own

Tuesday, November 8, 2022

9:00 AM – 11:00 PM: Registration

9:30 – 10:45 AM: Educational Workshops

9:30 AM – 3:30 PM: “How To” Sessions

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Marketplace Trade Show and Lunch

1:15 – 3:45 PM: Educational Workshops

4:00 – 5:30 PM: Marketplace Closing General Session

Florentine Lobby

Florentine Rooms E and F

Florentine Room B

Florentine Ballroom C

Florentine Rooms E and F

Florentine Ballroom A

Florentine Ballroom A Evening on your own

5:30 – 7:00 PM: Industry Excellence Reception

Wednesday, November 9, 2022

9:00 AM: Board Bus for Sysco Warehouse Tour

9:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Warehouse Tour, Product Showcase, and Light Lunch

1:00 PM: Bus Returns

Tuscany Hotel Lobby Entrance

Sysco Las Vegas

Tuscany Hotel Lobby Entrance

www.nicainc.org/marketplace

Monday, November 7, 2022

Educational Workshops Sponsored by Schantz Mfg. Door Prizes Sponsored by Odyssey Foods LLC

9:30 - 10:45 AM

Opening General Session

Florentine A

“Think Like Walt” / “What Can NICA Do 4 You?”

Sponsored by Entegra and Wings of Fame Productions

Opening General Session will feature a Welcome and Introduction by Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, President, and Rey O’Day, executive director, followed by “Think Like Walt!” Keynote by Michael Bradley, and NiCA leadership walking us through “What Can NICA Do 4 You?”

11:00 AM - 12:15 PM

Affordability Defines Perceived Value

Florentine E

We know Affordability matters to our Guests and Fairs and Vendors are all plagued by Inflation at every level of the supply and labor chains. Fairs and Vendors will have to work together to solve this and it probably involves careful buying, pricing for what we need rather than for what we want, and some rent discussions if we are going to take care of our Guests. When Prices become too high it strongly affects the perception of Value. We must do all we can to not lose value in the minds of our Guests.

The Ever, Ever-Changing Landscape of Commercial Exhibits

Florentine F

Sponsored by Webster Enterprises

While Fairs and Expos have featured Commercial Exhibits from their inception, they are experiencing a business environment that requires help to update and strengthen our Commercial Exhibit offerings. COVID closures challenged the very survival of our small businesses. Generational shifts in buying habits, coupled with direct competition from the internet, are altering the way patrons engage with Fair Commercial Exhibit programs. This session will set the context, look at different business models, suggest how new Vendors will be cultivated, and share ways to reimagine and promote Commercial Exhibit programs so they will thrive in today’s business context.

12:30 - 2:00 PM

Roundtable Discussions Over Lunch

Siena and Tuscany

Sponsored by GoCashless

Discussion Topics include Fair Hours, Multi-Year Contracts, Standardizing Beverage Prices, Product/Menu Duplication, What’s your Tipping Policy, Single Item Stands Vs. 7-11 Menu Stands, Sustainable Packaging, and What’s On Your Mind?

2:15 - 3:30 PM

What is Your Exit Strategy?

Florentine E

Historically we are generational family companies. Now it is time to retire… Have you put a succession plan together? You want to sell… Do you know the elements of a transfer of ownership process to share with the Fair? Will it be a family transaction or a third-party transaction? No matter where the next generation of Vendors come from, the process will be financial and have many interpersonal dynamics, the most important one being Trust. You will rest easier after hearing from our presenters.

Building A Food Safety Program

Florentine F

If “Safety” is one of your number one priorities, this session will teach you how to build a food safety program that includes training session curriculum, inspection training, scoring standards, and award programs. For instance, training covers sanitation, cooking, holding temperatures, storage, and the relationship between animals and food at events. Most importantly, this program contributes to trust and professionalism between County Health Departments, Vendors, and Event Promoters.

3:45 - 4:45 PM

Make it Pretty & Hide the Ugly

Florentine E

Every day is opening day at the Fair for Fair Guests. The light bulbs all work, flags are fresh and vibrant, freezers and trash are out of view, propane is safely strapped down, signage is professional, windows are clean, condiment stations are spotless, cables are covered, and personal items are put away. Our panel will share where to purchase privacy screens, share daily check lists, suggest decorating ideas, and provide wardrobe guidelines. It is cleanliness and color in the day time and lights and cleanliness in the nighttime. Let’s exceed our Guest expectations.

The Sponsorship Conundrum

Florentine F

Sponsored by Mattress Firm

Having different rental pricing and operational guidelines can produce confusing and difficult expectations and conflicting business behaviors that sometimes negatively impact the Guest experience. This panel of stakeholders will discuss why and what kinds of sponsorships achieve the ultimate win-winwin-win for Guests, Vendors, Sponsors, and the Fair.

“generation forward” Organizing Meeting

Florentine B

If you are 40 or under, you are the next generation of owners and Industry leaders. Come meet each other to network and become the NiCA Generation Forward Council.

Throughout the Event

“how To” Sessions

Florentine B

Sponsored by Hummel Group

Industry experts lead sessions touching upon many important “How To” topics that include “How to Create DocuSign and Fillable Forms,” “How to Order a New Concession Trailer,” “How to Clover,” “How to Fill out the CCE Application,” “How to Use EventHub,” “How to Use the Goodyear Tire Finder,” “How to Sign up for NICA Health Plan,” “How to Work with Propane,” “How to Speak with Confidence,” “How to Safely Move Equipment,” and “How to Say ‘NO’ Professionally.” See on-site schedule for more details including date, time, and speakers.

Tuesday, November 8, 2022

Educational Workshops Sponsored by Whirley-DrinkWorks! and Galaxy Amusement Supply Door Prizes Sponsored by Odyssey Foods LLC

9:30 - 10:45 AM

Punch up Your Purchasing Power Florentine E

In an era of supply chain sticker shock and shortages this session will guide you through the maze of finding the deals and embracing commonalities that best suit your business.

The Nuts and Bolts of Successful Selling

Florentine F

Sponsored by Rickey’s Jerky

Choosing locations from which to sell, booth display design, merchandising techniques, product lighting, pricing promotions, island layouts, a tiktok look at setting up a stand, as well as other media pieces, and a component on the trade Show floor.

1:15 - 2:15 PM

Riddles: When 1% is Not 1% / When Less is More Florentine E

1% at the top of the line is not 1% at the bottom line… How does that happen? Why did “less become more” so

unexpectedly? Enquiring minds want to know!

What’s New?

Florentine F

Pagers, Kiosk ordering, Technology, more credit card sales, 365 days of ordering, linking food to agriculture, local suppliers, and container stands. Panelists will share trends and want to hear what you are trying that is new.

2:30 - 3:45 PM

Locating Labor & Rising Labor Costs

Florentine E

Locating labor to hire and rising labor costs have become a major concern to our Industry. We know when reliable labor cannot be found, Vendors have had to cancel contracts. Together, do we develop training programs with educational institutions, senior centers, nonprofits, and/or local companies where possible employees can be sourced? How do we interface with the H-2B programs more successfully? What will interest employees to want to work at Fair jobs and do so drug free? At what financial threshold do Fairs move to selling parking and admission tickets only from kiosks and online, and Vendors move to order taking and payment kiosks? Does this concern become one of the factors in determining the number of hours the Fair is open? Let’s learn about options, engage in conversations, and collaborate together so we do not aggravate each other with unintended consequences.

Social Media & Marketing Do Work

Florentine F

When social media emerged, it was a game changer in how we communicate with our friends, partners, Guests and beyond. Effectively using various platforms can increase engagement and drive business to our Industry in ways that were nearly impossible to achieve before. Taking it to the next level, by engaging with Fairs and partners in the Industry, our presence can continue to grow and build a new generation of followers and Fairgoers.

4:00 - 7:00 PM

Closing General Session & Reception

Florentine A

“What’s On the Horizon? Where Are We Going From Here?” will be our envisioning themes for this celebration of our first annual NiCA Marketplace, “Together!” Industry leaders will challenge and inspire us and our Outgoing and incoming NiCA Presidents will toast us into the industry excellence reception “Together We Can!”

“What’s On the Horizon?” Industry Excellence Reception

Sponsored by Daryl Whicheloe, CCE, NICA President, and Vincent Nelson CCE, NICA Incoming President

Aspire Bakeries/Otis—205

Mark Goldrainer (513) 284-3970 mark.goldrainer@aspirebakeries.com

Aspire Bakeries is North America’s leading supplier of premium quality bakery products and proud partner to NiCA.

Beach Cities

Wholesalers—219 Allen May (562) 355-4074 allen@bcwsnacks.com

Wholesale distributor of snack foods, wholesale cotton candy machine, snow cone supplies, Gold Medal popcorn machine supplies, and more!

Berk Concession Supply—122

Yvonne Lepor (800) 323-3547 yvonne.lepor@berkbrands.com

A full service concession supplier specializing in stock and custom designed souvenir cups, paper plates, novelty drinkware, and many other food service products.

Boxed Water is Better—207

Laura Golonka (630) 864-7781 laura.golonka@boxedwaterisbetter.com

We obsess over providing the purest water in the most sustainable way. Our award-winning water is packaged in the most renewable option you’ll find in the water aisle.

Branding Iron Holdings—215

Ed Gonzalez (618) 973-6284 egonzalez@bih-us.com

Combining the strengths of our two core companies, Holten Meats and rochester Meat Company, has allowed us to hit the ground running.

Concession Mall—218

Wayne McMurtry (308) 631-7626 waynemcmurtry@gmail.com

At Concession Mall, our business isn’t in selling beverage dispensers. Our business is to help you find the same joy and freedom we have found in the world of Concessions.

Entegra—203

Todd Patrick (866) 368-3472

Todd.Patrick@clientPS.com

With a portfolio of 1,500 national, regional and local suppliers, entegra delivers savings and comprehensive access to food and nearly everything else you buy.

EventHub—120

Michael Bleau (206) 414-8237 michaelb@eventhub.net eventHub helps events to increase sponsorship revenue and save money managing sponsors.

Fare Foods—102

Audrey Poole (618) 542-2155 apoole@farefoods.com

Fare Foods is the nation’s leader in distributing concession supplies, food products and equipment to the Mobile Concessions Industry.

First Foods—116

Jon Colt (314) 283-9025 jcolt@firstfoodco.com

For over 50 years First Foods has been delivering the highest quality products and the finest service for the Foodservice Industry.

Fiserv/Clover—104

Milton Price (615) 490-2441 milton.price@fiserv.com

Accept more types of payments from

anywhere you are. Fiserv has preferred credit card processing rates, hardware solutions including Clover, and 24/7 customer service.

Florida’s Best—110

James Toler (321) 225-0498 jameslwjtoler@gmail.com

Florida’s Best is a family-run business with a commitment to quality and developing all-natural products.

Good Source Solutions—216

Kelly Courtland (800) 505-3737 kcourtland@goodsource.com

Good Source provides the finest, enjoyable and budget-friendly food products for all your events and plans.

Hummel Group—101

Phil Teague (330) 464-3200 pteague@hummelgrp.com

Since 1957 we have been building a business based on relationships and doing the right thing for our clients. We offer a property, fleet, liability and workers compensation insurance program designed specifically for the Mobile Food Industry.

JKJ Workforce—105

James Judkins (956) 440-8720 carnival.workforce@gmail.com

We solve labor problems, with over 40 years of experience providing legal solutions for businesses to solve unique labor Issues.

JM Smucker—209

Steve Applegate (816) 510-4492 steven.applegate@jmsmucker.com

The JM Smucker Company, also known as Smuckers, is an American manufacturer of food and beverage products. Our iconic brands are found in 90% of homes across the country.

The Langlois Company—106

Jeff Langlois (951) 903-3029 jeff@langloiscompany.com

Manufacturer of fine batter mixes for making corn dogs, funnel cakes, fried fish and chicken, churros mix, etc.  We also manufacture BBQ and other table sauces, mayonnaise and salad dressings, frozen dessert powders and drink mixes. We can reverse engineer or custom blend for your specific tastes and preferences.

Luxe Retail—117 Denise Ho (480) 253-0420 info.luxeretail@gmail.com

Commercial Exhibitor specializing in beauty supplies.

McCain Foods—213

Brian Johnson (770) 490-8099 brian.johnson@mccain.com

McCain Foods is the world’s largest producer of the best and most innovative prepared potato and appetizer products to our customers in the Foodservice Industry.

McGowan Allied—211

Stephanie Moore (727) 547-3121 swmoore@mcgowanallied.com

Providing specialty insurance to Independent Concessionaires for over 30 years. We welcome your calls for a quote.

NICA—300

Linda Frisco (813) 438-8926 nica@nicainc.org

NiCA is a membership-driven organization dedicated to strengthening relationships with the Fair, Festival, and Special Events Industries through effective communication, benefits, education, leadership, and solutions.

OA Finance—118

Mark Walker (913) 671-0003 mark@oafinance.net

OA Finance LLC is a premier lender to the outdoor amusement industry, dedicated to helping you grow your business and bring excitement to your patrons.

OCC Signs—119

Scott Norton (714) 447-4484 scottn@occustomsigns.com

Your one stop source for design, wraps and all your signage needs.

Ovation—217

Jake Levine (201) 463-9611 jake@ovationup.com

Actionable Guest Feedback for restaurants. Find out how your on- and off-premises customers are feeling, fix any issues in seconds, get more 5-star reviews, and have an easy-button for insight and retention.

Pronto Pup—114

David Sulmonetti (503) 516-6377 dave@prontopup.net

Makers of the famous Pronto Pup corn dog mix and Gold Medal distributor.

Rickey’s Jerky—112

Ryan Rickey (503) 475-5613 ryan@rickeysjerky.com

rickey’s Jerky is a handmade prepackaged gourmet beef and exotic meat jerky.

Smithfield/Farmland—204

Greg Tomasello (413) 310-6393 gtomasello@smithfield.com

Smithfield, the world’s largest pork producer is the Industry leader in bacon, ham, sausage, BBQ and fresh pork. Good Food. Responsibly.

Specialty Insurance—221

Elizabeth (Libby) ulm (715) 246-8908

info@specialtyinsuranceagency.com

At Specialty insurance Agency, we strive to make our policies work for you with Commercial General Liability Policies for Performers and Mobile Vendors across the United States.

Supplies on the Fly—202

Wyatt Stumbo (321) 795-4074 wstumbo@suppliesonthefly.com

Supplies on the Fly is Sysco’s one stop shop for all things supplies, equipment, disposables, and specialty foods to support your business.

Sysco—200

Clay Steadham (832) 457-9625 clay.steadham@sysco.com

Sysco is dedicated to market and deliver great products to our customers with exceptional service. Sysco’s variety of companies offer specialty produce, custom-cut meats, gourmet imports, supplies, and resources as unique as your business.

Waterloo Tent & Tarp—108

Cody Downs (319) 234-4679 cody@waterlootent.com

A manufacturer of ride canvas, game joints, umbrellas, tents, and all related canvas for the Mobile Amusement Industry (specializing in canvas and shade)

WOODY’Z—103

Shan Dobaria (805) 312-4532

shan@woodyz.com

Souvenir drinkware and food service items, custom decorated. Hundreds of novelty and traditional shapes in a variety of colors are in stock. We specialize in custom designs! If we can’t find it, we can make it. Most of our products are made in the USA.

The NICA Good Neighbor Award Goes to...

Submitted by Sandy Class, CCE, Past President

As a part of Tuesday’s industry excellence reception, we will be honoring our newest recipient of the NiCA Good Neighbor Award, Wisconsin State Fair. The following nomination letter was submitted to the NiCA Office by Sandy Class, CCE, Past President:

I, Sandy Class CCE, would like to nominate the Wisconsin State Fair and their Staff for the NiCA Good Neighbor Award. I have participated in this Fair for over thirty years and have experienced many changes of hats worn throughout my years as part of this Fair.

With the multiple hurdles that many Fairs have faced due to short staffing etc., Lisa Immel, Food and Beverage Manager, and her vendor Services department, Carrie Obradovich, Kelly Dohse, Beth Pomije, and Bryce Kiefer, went above and beyond to keep us all in the “Ice Business.” Sometime before the Fair opened, the Wisconsin State Fair learned that Artic Glacier ice, who had been with the Fair for years, would no longer be servicing the Fair for their ice needs. Artic Glacier would continue supplying the ice; however, service and support would no longer exist.

Left with not many choices, “Forklift Driving 101” began prior to the Fair. Lisa and her Staff wanted to make sure that anyone could drive a forklift and deliver ice. I even witnessed on one of my days at work, Shari Black, CEO, Wisconsin State Fair, driving a forklift to deliver ice. It was a heartwarming experience to know that we were all in this together, and what we all choose to do to serve our Fairgoers.

I also experienced on a separate occasion at the Harvest Fair held September 23-25, Lisa and Beth were sweeping a huge puddle of water due to an earlier rain storm. The puddle had flooded the Vendor tent and surrounding areas. Again, thinking of the Vendor and the Fairgoers…and not afraid to wear any hat on any given day, they were pushing a broom. I also experienced Lisa driving a forklift to move a concrete barrier. No job is too big or too small for anyone who is a part of the Wisconsin State Fair!

This Good Neighbor Award comes with appreciation from NiCA’s membership to the Staff of the Wisconsin State Fair for voluntarily practicing the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you!” Congratulations and Well Deserved.

Don’t Miss Out On Our Contests & Giveaways!

As with all of our Gatherings and Events, there is always the chance for NiCA Members to win something, and NiCA Marketplace is no exception! We will award door prizes at each Session, Workshop, Roundtable, and the Trade Show, with many additional fundraisers in place. Play a game during the Cornhole Contest, participate in Pick-a-ticket, ask a NiCA Foundation trustee about Cupid tickets and donations, and ask a NiCA director, “Who Will Take the Trailer Home?”

Getting to Know the Trustees of the

Created by NiCA to oversee and administer an academic and vocational educational scholarship program and foster development opportunities and training services, as well as provide a travel stipend for first time convention attendees, the NiCA Foundation’s Board of trustees collectively have over 250 years of experience in the Fairs and Events Industry. In this issue we feature a Q&A with NiCA Foundation President Audrey Poole, from DuQuoin, IL Her responses are below :

What is the name of your business and what do you specialize in?

I am currently the vP of Business development for Fare Foods Fare Foods has been a Food Service Distributor to our Industry for almost 30 years. We specialize in various proprietary items, special print items, and custom designs. Fare Foods delivers to approximately 44 states throughout the year and is located in Southern Illinois in DuQuoin.

How and why did you get into the business?

I have been in the Food Service Distribution business for 40 years. After working for a Corporate Grocery Wholesale Company for over 24 years, the company was purchased by an investment group and our division merged with another location and relocated. I found myself trying to decide what I wanted to do. I met with Ron Porter, President of Fare Foods, and his passion for the Fair Industry was intriguing. It

sparked my interest, and I thought this was a chance to be a part of an Industry that was like family. This was what I was accustomed to and thought I would never find anything like that again. Was I wrong...

What do you like most about the Industry?

Our Industry is like having a second family. The people are so caring and passionate about what they do. To know that we can bring so much joy and entertainment to others is certainly rewarding. I truly believe that’s what keeps us all going. Tell us about your family. Are they active in the business?

My family is not in the business. My husband, Mike, and I own a farm and he is in the mining Industry. I have one sister, Amy, and she has been a court reporter her entire career. I have two nieces, Savannah and Abby, who mean the world to me and I love spending any spare time I have with them. My sister and her husband, Rich, live close to me which makes it convenient, too.

Audrey Poole, Foundation President with the Laura, Ron, and Trampas Porter, Fare Foods, during our Annual Gala

Audrey Poole, Foundation President, and her husband Mike with their dog Charlie

What inspired you to join the NICA Foundation?

The Foundation offers so many opportunities to those wanting to further their education. It melts your heart when you contact the scholarship recipients to inform them they have been awarded a scholarship. Many will tell you how the scholarship is going to help them and their families. It makes every fundraising effort even better knowing the impact the Foundation is making on people’s lives. I am honored to be a part of such a prestigious organization.

What do you hope the Foundation accomplishes?

My goal is to continue getting people involved. We must all work together to raise money for the Foundation to increase our scholarships we award yearly. If you would like to support a family named scholarship, please contact myself or one of the Foundation trustees.

How long have you been a NICA Member?

I have been a NiCA Member since starting my position at Fare Foods over 17 years ago. Ron Porter, Fare Foods, and Kevin McGrath, CCE, the Best Around, originally recruited me. How has your business changed since you started

season. Today, there is not much down time. As soon as the season ends, we start preparing for the next season mostly due to the supply and demand issues. If we could only turn back time before the Pandemic hit, it would solve many of the supply and demand issues we are all experiencing today.

What is your most valuable NICA Benefit?

The ClC lodging benefit has been a tremendous savings for our company. It makes it convenient for our employees when searching for hotel options. The benefits that NiCA offers has something for everyone to save money.

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

I love to travel especially to Mexico. I also spend as much time as I can at our lake house.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?

I would encourage you to get involved. The NiCA Foundation is growing; however, we need your help to continue to grow and expand the number of scholarships that are awarded each year. We would love to hear from you if you have any fundraising ideas or would like to be a part of this wonderful organization. Together we can make a difference!

We appreciate your responses! What is the best

Congratulations to Our First Timers

Congratulations to NiCA Members Dan Ashby, Ashby Concessions, Jay Bohannon, Camas Concessions, Brandi Ebner, deschutes County Fair, Lori Hull, Hillsdale County Fair, Patty Tessari, layton Concessions, and Albert Valadez, Sir Sir licorice ropes, who have all been awarded a $500 travel Stipend to attend NiCA Marketplace Jay said, “We are lifelong Industry members, but took a 20-year break to raise our family. Since we are just getting back into the business, any help attending the show would be greatly appreciated.” Brandi stated, “I am excited to attend this convention and learn more about the latest trends and information on the Food Concession Industry. Our Fair is the largest County Fair in Oregon and we had over $1 million in food sales this year in five days. I want to be ahead of the other events in our region.” Dan wrote, “We are first time members, active in the Industry, and happy to be a part of NICA!” Patty explained, “I am excited to attend the NICA Marketplace this year. Any financial help in being able to do so is greatly appreciated.”

Have you always wanted to attend a NICA Convention but just haven’t committed to it? Whether it be because of expense, timing, or any other reason, the NiCA Foundation is here to help get you there! We encourage you to apply for the First timer’s Convention Scholarship, which offers an opportunity for NiCA Members to attend a NiCA Convention in 2023 with the help of a $500 travel Stipend. Don’t delay, as the next deadline is coming up on December 15th. To apply online, visit nicainc.org/first-timers

Join us February 13-15, 2023 at the beautiful Sheraton tampa Brandon Hotel, located in Tampa, FL, for the 2023 NiCA Business expo and Fare Foods Food Show. This year’s theme is “All In!” With our record numbers seen this season, especially in comparison to PostPandemic events, this Industry is coming back strong! The NiCA Business expo will be held Monday through Wednesday, providing Workshops and discussion Groups which cover the issues and the daily challenges our Industry is faced with today. On Wednesday evening, we invite you to attend the Annual General Membership Meeting, where we will present

our Year in review, install the 2023 Board of directors, announce the Coca-Cola Membership Contest winners, and hear from Benefit Partners. During the evening’s Annual Gala, we will highlight the NiCA Foundation, honor a new Hall of Fame recipient, and enjoy a delicious buffet, courtesy of Fare Foods. The Fare Foods Food Show will run Monday and Tuesday and will feature exhibitors showcasing the latest food trends and technology that will define and kickstart the 2023 Fair Season.

Stay tuned to NiCA and Fare Foods communications for important announcements and programming information, coming soon!

HIBIT

PACE A PPLICATION

PPLICATION

K&K Insurance Group, Inc. is a

(FL license #L007299, TX license #13924);

K&K Insurance Agency (CA license #0334819)

in CA, NY

MI

All Meat Hot Dogs 10# Box:

Pre-Skewered 7” (9/1) Hot Dog

Pre-Skewered 6” (10/1) Hot Dog

Pre-Skewered 10” (6/1) Hot Dog

Pre-Skewered 11.25” (4/1) Jumbo Hot Dog

Regular Hot Dog 10” (6/1)

Regular Hot Dog 7” (6/1)

Pre-Skewered 10” (2.5/1) Jumbo Polish

Jumbo Polish 10” (2.5/1)

Polish Sausage (3/1)

ALL BEEF Hot Dogs 10# Box:

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BBQ

From the Camera Roll...From the Camera Roll...

Greg Miller, CCE, Foundation vice President, Bary Bunts, CCE, east Council, and Gentry Miller, Josephine’s Glazed donuts

Mark Piche, Piche Concessions, and his son Hunter in Raleigh

Mike Curci, Soda Parts express, hard at work

Kevin McGrath II, the Best Around, and Jeremy Crutchfield, Crutchfield Concessions

Matt Ribar, Midwest Council, Grant Campbell, Campbell’s Concessions, and Bryan Enloe, director elect, at the iowa State Fair

2022

Contest

Renewal Members ($2,000 Gift of Travel)

For a complete list, visit www.nicainc.org/contests

Referrals: General Membership

Jeff Ross, CCE 6 Ron Smith

2 Rod Beach 1 Chris Conkle, CCE 1 Carmel Dyer-Pittroff

1 Rusty Groscurth 1 Russ Harrison, CCE 1 Mark Hill, CCE 1 Don Long, CCE 1 Ann Menchen 1 Charles Miller 1 Timothy Packer 1 Audrey Poole

1 Dale Smith, CCE 1 R. Joshua Stremmel 1 Phil Teague

Referrals: Regional Councils

1

Steve Vartanian 3 Gigi Horowitz

2 Ryann Newman 2 Bary Bunts, CCE 1 Jan Gary, CCE 1 Ryan Hagy 1 Patty Tessari 1

Referrals: Board of Directors

Jacqueline Bradbury, CCE 8 Tom Hodson, CCE 8 Jay Wells, CCE 5 Daryl Whicheloe, CCE 5 Sandy Class, CCE 3 Phil Delahoyde 3 Dan Lusenhop 2 Vincent Nelson, CCE

2 Stacey Pittroff-Barona 2 Brandy Arredondo, CCE 1 Kim Barr, CCE

www.nicainc.org

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Natio N al iN depe N de N t Co NC essio N aires a sso C iatio N , iNC .

1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511

Phone: (813) 438-8926 • Fax: (813) 803-8460

Email: nica@nicainc.org • Website: www.nicainc.org

MEMbErShIp ApplICAtIoN

Last Name:

Date: #:

Member

City : State: Zip:

Address: City : State: Zip:

Primary

Number :

Website:

Secondary Phone Number :

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q regular Member $150

q Additional Member $100

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Member $75

Member $50

SINESS

Includes five Memberships

Additional Member,

q Business / Group

Additional Member :

Members

$400

F EES

A SS o CIAt E M EM b E r S h I p

A person or entity who provides services to the Concession Industry.

q Fair / Festival (over 75,000 attendance) $150

q Fair / Festival (under 75,000 attendance) $100

q Manufacturer / Distributor / Supplier $150

q Carnival / Circus Operator $150

q Association / Special Services $150

b u SINESS D ESC r I pt I o N

Provide a detailed description of your business, products, and/or services below. This information will be used for your entry in the annual NICA Membership Directory and as keywords to search for your business on the NICA website.

MEN t

NS ur ANCE

Dismemberment (AD&D)

The NICA-sponsored $10,000

List a beneficiary

Regular

Beneficiary : Phone :

q I authorize NICA to charge the agreed amount listed above to my credit card information provided above. I agree I will pay for this purchase in accordance with the issuing bank cardholder agreement.

Auto MAt IC rENE wA l o pt I o N

q I authorize NICA to make automatic renewal payments for my Membership using the credit card information above. I shall update NICA with all changes to payment information or my intent to cancel

payments prior to my next renewal month.