This Month’s Newest Members
Stephanie Burrell
Jackson County Expo
Central Point, OR
Vu Chau
Lionheart Enterprises
San Ramon, CA
Carolyn Dick
Red Beards Hot Sauce
Huntington Beach, CA
Sean Dick
Red Beards Hot Sauce
Huntington Beach, CA
Kerstin Everhart
Fork’et Me Not Kill Devil Hills, NC
Shawn Everhart Fork’et Me Not Kill Devil Hills, NC
Wayne Everhart Jr. Fork’et Me Not Kill Devil Hills, NC
Wayne Everhart Sr. Fork’et Me Not Kill Devil Hills, NC
Troy Franklin
Treasurestate BBQ
Miles City, MT
Ravyn Gabardi Peak Beverage Denver, CO
Aaron Hicks GoldenKdog
Knightdale, NC
Ester Hicks GoldenKdog
Knightdale, NC
Henry Locke Easyo Pacific, Inc. Fremont, CA
Margaret Lucio A&M Concessions LLC
Jasper, FL
Kiki Phu
3P Enterprise LLC Norco, CA
Roy Porter
The Apple Cart, LLC
Uniontown, OH
Lette Swain
Fork’et Me Not Kill Devil Hills, NC
Brandi Woolcott
B & B Supreme Elephant Ears and Funnel Cakes Veneta, OR
Welcome to our 18 New Members! See page 33 for the 2024 NICA Membership Contest Leaderboard, sponsored by Coca-Cola “Together We Can!”
This Month’s Member Renewals
Danny Alfonso Manatee River Fair
Association
Palmetto, FL (1994)
Danny Andreini µ Pronto Pup Company Memphis, TN (1993)
Teddy Archer
Dynamite Kettle Corn Ukiah, CA (2023)
Eddie Barrera
Hot Doggin
Sacto, CA (2021)
Bob Batista
Western Idaho Fair Boise, ID (2016)
Jay Beck
Beck’s Taffy & Concessions Melvin, IL (2015)
Mark Becker
Becker Concessions, LLC
Waterloo, IA (1996)
Shari Black, CFE
Wisconsin State Fair
West Allis, WI (2010)
Bryan Blair
York State Fair
York, PA (2019)
Lee Blanchette
Lab Concessions & Catering
N. Grosvenor Dale, CT (2015)
Michael Bliss
The Sleek Greek
Glendale, AZ (2016)
Jacqueline Bradbury, CCE
Sweet Cheeks, LLC
Maricopa, AZ (2013)
Rich Brander
Brander Enterprises, Inc.
Santa Margarita, CA (2007)
Teresa Brander
Brander Enterprises, Inc.
Santa Margarita, CA (2015)
Julie Broetsky
Broetsky Foods, Inc.
Fountain Hills, AZ (1995)
Ronald Burback
Fun Enterprises, Inc.
Portland, OR (1997)
Tiffany Burrow-Loushin
Alameda County Fair
Pleasanton, CA (2014)
Sue Butcher
Allen County Fair
Lima, OH (2000)
Thomas Carnahan
Carnahan Concessions
Stormville, NY (2003)
Andrew Cashman
Maryland State Fair
Timonium, MD (2018)
Jan Cates
The Cates Company Perrysville, OH (2009)
Costas Constantinou
Grecian Delights Flushing, NY (2011)
Amanda Cornell
Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
Houston, TX (2023)
Chad Crutchfield Crutchee’s Inc. Sumner, TX (2021)
Frank Cuff
Frankie’s French Fries Ulster Park, NY (2023)
Wayne Decker Future Vision Malabar, FL (2017)
Jackie DeRamus
Lakeside Concession
Webbers Falls, OK (2006)
Doug Dills
Dills Concessions / Peace River Venice, FL (2004)
Tiffany Dugan
TC Dugan Enterprises Inc. Carlsbad, CA (2021)
Dan Duggan
Duggan’s Concessions Fresno, CA (2007)
Danielle Dullinger
Minnesota State Fair
St. Paul, MN (2023)
Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, CCE
The Original Australian Battered Potatoes, LLC Balboa, CA (2007)
Brandi Ebner
Deschutes County Fair Redmond, OR (2022)
Jessica Ellenbecker
All Things Jerky / Exotic
Meat Grill Appleton, WI (2023)
Robert Fulton
Fun Rides and Events
Sanford, NC (2015)
John Giordano
C & C Concessions, Inc. La Verne, CA (2015)
continued on page 14
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Kim Barr, CCE, President
The Golden Ticket PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Fall is here! It is officially only one month until NICA Marketplace “Together!” I hope you plan to attend our Third Annual Convention in Las Vegas, NV at the Tuscany Suites and Casino. We are excited to see everyone and it is never too late to sign up! Although we encourage you to register online, we will offer Onsite Registration, too, so please come and join us any way you can!
Some will be getting equipment winterized before snow appears in our front yards and some in the South are still having events and staying warm. Either way, 2024 is working way into the past quicker than some like! I am happy to get off the road and have some downtime. I love to quilt and hang out with my Grandkids and Hubby, who loves to hunt deer and birds with Jagger, our new wirehaired pointing griffon.
So many of us have been in this Industry for so many years, and we have been in it for 38 years ourselves! Sometimes I reminisce about the beginning when we first started all those years ago. While things were much easier and much less complicated, most of us have grown our business so that it would succeed. Though we are still working diligently each year, we are beginning the wind-down process. We have started the journey to what we call the “Transfer of Ownership.” It can be complicated for some, and very involved for others, as we try to come up with the right scenario for having a successful “Transfer.” We will continue conversations at NICA Marketplace regarding this exact subject and we encourage you all to attend.
As an Industry, we may have made some headway with LNI (Labor and Industry Department) this year! We had a situation in Washington State with a Food Concessionaire, who had their paperwork APPROVED and was awaiting their inspection with
LNI to hopefully receive their “Golden Ticket,” aka their LNI Sticker. The Health Department attempted to shut them down on opening day because they didn’t have their sticker! At this event, there was a Concessionaire, a local County Commissioner, who called a meeting with the Health Department to discuss the situation regarding the Concessionaire they attempted to close. After much discussion, the Health Department was not willing to back down. They came to the Booth and told him he had two choices: Move his Equipment out of his Brand New Trailer and Operate, or Close his Booth. It just so happened that another County Commissioner was in his line at the time, heard the conversation, and asked the Health Department Employee to say what he just told the Concessionaire again. They repeated it back, and the Commissioner replied, “You mean to tell me it’s okay to operate outside his new, very clean trailer? I don’t think so!” He looked at the Operator, who went back inside to go to work! The next day, we had a meeting with two County Commissioners, two Local Legislators, and four County Health Department Employees. Needless to say, we had a very good meeting! It escalated the Concessionaire’s Inspection to the following week and he received his LNI “Golden Ticket” immediately. We have had our second trailer paperwork escalated as well, and will be receiving our inspection soon! I think we may have some future work to do, but we are definitely making a presence known that we have Safe Trailers and don’t need to go through all the hoopla in order to get our “Golden Ticket.”
Barr, CCE, President, taking her signature selfies during the Health Department Meeting on the Fairgrounds
Kim
OFFICERS
President: Kim Barr, CCE
1st Vice President: Jay Wells, CCE
Co-2nd Vice Presidents:
Brandy Arredondo, CCE
Stacey Pittroff-Barona, CCE
Treasurer: Bryan Enloe, CCE
Secretary: Bary Bunts, CCE
DIRECTORS
Michelle Allen, CCE
Jacqueline Bradbury, CCE
Sandy Class, CCE
Phil Delahoyde
Dan Lusenhop
PAST PRESIDENTS’ COUNCIL
Vincent Nelson, CCE
Daryl Whicheloe, CCE
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 (Deceased)
Arthur Pokorny, Jr.
Gene O’Brien, CCE (Deceased)
OFFICE STAFF
Executive Director : Rey O’Day
Office & Membership
Manager : Linda Frisco
Office Clerk : Mary Vega
Communications & Marketing
Manager • NICA News Editor :
Jesse Willard
Commercial Exhibits Council
Coordinator : Jeff Thornberry, CCE
East Council & Social Media
Coordinator : Jessica Gottsche
Midwest Council Coordinator :
Dennis Larson, CFE
West Council Coordinators : Don Delahoyde, CCE
Julie Dunn
NICA FOUNDATION
President: Audrey Poole
Vice President : Daryl Whicheloe, CCE
Treasurer : Jennifer Giordano, CCE
Secretary : Rey O’Day
Reilly Berk
Carmel Dyer-Pittroff, CCE
Tom Hodson, CCE
James McConnell
Larry Sivori
Jay Wells, CCE
COMMERCIAL
EXHIBITS COUNCIL
Nancy Chapman
Nathalie Harrington
Christopher Nielsen
Edward Reeder Sr
Ryan Rickey
James Toler
Denise Warner
David Webster
EAST COUNCIL
Bary Bunts, CCE
Ryan Collmer
Whitney Fraleigh
Ryan Hagy
Gino Orlandi
Patty Tessari
Michael Zdebiak, Jr.
MIDWEST
COUNCIL
Connie Boesen
Sandy Class, CCE
Bruce Kozelou
James McConnell
Richie O’Neil
Matt Ribar
Mickey Venegas
WEST COUNCIL
Michelle Allen, CCE
Brandy Arredondo, CCE
Rodney Fazackerly
Alan Harrington
Gigi Horowitz, CCE
Ryan Long, CCE
Miki Martin
Albert Valadez
Nathan Wells, CCE
Gus Whicheloe
Diana Wolf Do you have any questions or would like to get involved with NICA? Contact us at (813) 438-8926 or nica@nicainc.org today!
I believe as Concessionaires and NICA Members, we all operate in safe conditions, and constantly watch over our equipment, as well as the trailer. NICA offers several cost-saving benefits to help with safety, including Goodyear Tires, Grainger, Home Depot, and many others. Check out our whole list on our NICA Website at nicainc.org/benefits
Our NICA Marketplace Trade Show is now fully booked! I am thrilled for what we have to offer so far for our NICA Marketplace Attendees! In addition, we will be finalizing our Educational Sessions soon. Although Early Bird Registration is ending this month, there is still time to register and save money to come and attend! If you wait to register at the convention, just keep in mind that it will be more expensive. If you haven’t signed up and reserved your room in Vegas at the Tuscany Suites and Casino, you are running out of time! We are putting together some Timely, Important Topics this year, and as the situation arises and is a concern or topic of discussion, we are on it to
bring them to the table for further conversation. We will have more updates coming up soon! We are super excited to have a ServSafe Manager Class at NICA Marketplace this year! If you haven’t signed up, please contact the NICA Office at (813) 438-8926! It’s only $70 to attend and take the class. It will be held on the morning of Sunday, November 10th from 10 AM–6 PM and will be 5½ hours, going over the book you have previously purchased and read, with a half-hour lunch and two hours to complete the test. Make sure that when you register, you also sign up any of your managers that need to take the course, too! There is so much to learn at our convention for managers and we’re excited to have them attend. I am looking forward to seeing you all at NICA Marketplace “Together!” Our convention will be your “Golden Ticket” to a successful 2025. I wish you safe travels as you journey to your next event, or as you are headed home to rest! We work long days, and it’s much deserved for sure. ▲
DIRECTOR’S VOICE DIRECTOR’S VOICE
Brandy Arredondo, CCE, 2nd Vice President
As our season concludes, I like to focus on the aspects of our community that few people ever see. Amid the complexities of modern life on the Fairgrounds, it is the simple moments of connection, like a shared laugh with an RV neighbor or a helping hand in times of need, that remind us of our humanity and the Power of our Industry. It defines who we are, and reminds us that how we act today determines what happens tomorrow!
This year has been a pivotal one for our organization, focused on both expansion and the opportunities to learn from one another. NICA has successfully hosted gatherings across the North, South, East, and West, allowing for meaningful connections with people from diverse communities. This year we have come together for Topgolf, Poker and Bingo, Potlucks, Breakfasts, Field Days, and so much more! These events have not only allowed us to develop new friendships, but also to strengthen existing ones. Some were held for the first time, and some have been refined over a period of years. It is through these gatherings
Connecting Together
that we truly collaborate and enjoy each other’s company. As we continue to embrace these opportunities to learn and connect, we will only grow stronger! Outside of these NICA Gatherings, I have also made it a tradition every year to participate in the OC Fair Fun Run, which is a great way to stay connected and have fun with others.
As we prepare to pack our equipment and embark on our journeys back home, I look forward to NICA’s largest gathering of the year, the Third Annual NICA Marketplace “Together!” taking place this November in the lively city of Las Vegas. I am genuinely excited about this special opportunity to connect with my peers, engage in meaningful discussions, and expand my understanding through networking with others in our field, along with seeing all the new and exciting things our Business Partners will be showcasing at the NICA Marketplace “Together!” Trade Show. This event not only allows us to share our thoughts and experiences, but it also provides a moment to recognize the hard work and dedication that drives our Industry to success and honor the remarkable individuals in it. Let us make the most of this season as we are connecting together! ▲
Brandy Arredondo, CCE, 2nd Vice President, crossing the finish line with her team
RIFFING WITH REY
Rey O’Day, Executive Director
Season of Change RIFFING WITH REY
Greetings, Fall is a season of change… but it does so with a sense of vibrancy, comfort, and ease. With NICA Marketplace “Together!” just around the corner, that is exactly what we are going to do!!! Our Staff and Board have been in 39 states collecting topic ideas, celebrating our work, and inviting all to attend our NICA Gathering in Las Vegas. All season our theme has been “Tomorrow Starts Today!” When you attend NICA Marketplace “Together!” November 10–13th, you are reviewing this past year and preparing for tomorrow’s 2025 Season with Fair Friends and Family over a good drink, a full-throated laugh, and a collective curiosity about the future. Here is what we are excited about:
Manager’s ServSafe Training: We brought this to EXPO last year and have added it to this year’s Marketplace programming at the request of many of you. It is also a way to share the work of the NICA Foundation, too. The workshop costs only $70, since the NICA Foundation is going to cover $75 of the $145 fee. Call the NICA Office today at (813) 438-8926 to register. This professional class is on Sunday, November 10th, from 10 AM–6 PM in the Tuscany Event Center. Come save some money and check it off your to-do list!
Sysco-Las Vegas Tour and Lunch: This is a MUST STAY, FREE Special Activity for Wednesday morning. Board the hosted bus at 9 AM to take a tour of the entire Sysco Warehouse and Dock, learn about the logistics of food delivery, meet Sysco Chefs that provide ideas and food samples, and end the event with a tasty lunch together where you can ask questions and visit. The bus will return you to the Tuscany at 1 PM. This is a “Wow!” that showcases the importance of understanding how our food products come to us safely.
By the way, all NICA Members are automatically entitled to the many benefits that Sysco offers. One of the most popular is a Business Review, conducted by your local Sysco Chef, where you
and your team can Test, Taste, and Turnout new products for your menus.
Jim Teece, Keynote Speaker: Many of you have met Jim and the rest of you should meet Jim. He is a Fair Board Member that helped save a Fair and the Owner of Project A, a web and software development company. He was a “hit” when we brought him to our members at WFA because his enthusiasm about technology is contagious and he has learned to talk about it in our terms. Some of his favorite phrases are “Fail as Fast as You Can,” “Define, Design, and Develop,” “Don’t Be An Eeyore,” and “Suck Less.” He acknowledges that we are not perfect, inspires us to find solutions quickly, and encourages us to embrace “future-proofing.” He will lead us into “Moving Forward Together!”
NICA Marketplace Trade Show: We all attend Trade Shows with services and products that we never use. Not this one! It is a SOLD-OUT Trade Show with 40 companies interested in talking to decision makers (that is YOU) regarding the services and products you use. They have time to listen to you and offer new ideas for you and your companies. Hosted FREE Food and a Non-Hosted Bar is provided during Both Trade Show Sessions, along with a side room of tables for visiting and conducting business. Whether you are looking for Food Manufacturers, Commercial Exhibitors, Equipment, or Business Services… it’s all there!
NICA Marketplace Roundtables: You have told us over and over again that this is your favorite session which is why we have placed it early in the program on Monday. These topics are the ones we have contemplated or struggled with all season and on which we all have something to say. Jessica Gottsche and Donna Ruhm will moderate the session, and the roundtable discussions are all proudly led by NICA Members. There are 22 tables, 22 topics, and 3 rounds of discussions, plus a FREE Box Lunch, sponsored by GoCashless “How To” Workshops: We all have questions about how to do things. These half-hour workshops are designed to answer specific questions by people who are knowledgeable
Cecelia and Don Kenna, Past Director/Trustee, Rey O’Day, Executive Director, Jay Wells, CCE, 1st Vice President, and Mike Bradley, MHB Productions, at the Tulsa State Fair
about the answers. Some of the questions will be “How to move mobile equipment safely,” “How to stay organized while traveling,” and “How to use NICA Benefits.” It has been said that our future will be measured by the speed at which we adopt technology. During the Opening General Session we will all learn “How to use a QR Code” that will interact with us throughout the conference. Buckle up—it will be useful and thought provoking!
Educational Sessions: NICA is dedicated to strengthening relationships with the Fair, Festival, and Special Events Industries though effective Communication, Education, Benefits, Leadership, and Solutions. Whether we produce or participate, Educational Sessions are one of the primary ways we achieve this mission. Vendor Thought Leaders, Fair Employee Thought Leaders, Consultant Thought Leaders, and Supplier Thought Leaders infuse these Sessions with Wisdom, Humor, Ideas, Controversy, Experience, Inspiration, and Solutions. Sessions include “Finding and Training Temporary Employees,” led by Temporary Labor Consultant Dan Dooling. We are also very pleased to host “A Commercial Sales Conversation,” with three of our first ladies, Pam Simon, CFE, Amanda Schlatre, CFE, and Suzy Cason, CFE. Using data from the “IAFE Ag on a Grand Scale” survey, Mike Bradley will share why Food/Beverage and Shopping are two of the primary reasons people attend Fairs. Moreover, he will share survey data that suggests where we have untapped opportunities. NICA invested in this survey with 20 other Fairs (all of whom are in the top 75 Fairs in North America) so as to use the results to design edutainment in collaborative ways that teach Fairgoers where and how food is sourced. Other previously announced sessions are in the final stages of development and will be introduced in
Rey O’Day, Executive Director, visiting with Schuyler, James (NICA Foundation Scholarship Recipient), and Lisa MacPherson, Ten Pound Buns, earlier this season
an upcoming NICA Now! email news blast. Winners and Prizes: NICA has traditions it has developed over time. One of them is that we give a Gift Card Door Prize to someone who attends every Educational Session we present, no matter where it is held. Also we love choosing NICA logo “tchotchkes” and giving them away anywhere we find NICA Members or possible New Members… especially at NICA Fair Gatherings, where everyone enjoys the 50/50 Drawings. For 12 years we have also been thanking Exhibitors with See’s Candy and Speakers with unique Thank You Offerings.
At this year’s NICA Marketplace we are going to try something new… FREE SWEEPSTAKES TICKETS! You will receive the first one in your Tote Bag and then you will receive another one each time you attend an Educational Session. You may place your ticket in the vessel marked for your item of choice which will include Heinz Pump Dispensers, a Lemonade Bubbler, a Keurig Coffee Maker, and more. We are still collecting items, so register for NICA Marketplace “Together!” and be pleasantly surprised by what else you might win!
Nowhere will you experience a better learning opportunity tailored just for you and have more fun with fellow Owners, Fair Staff Colleagues, and Suppliers with whom you work for a reasonable price in a comfortable, engaging environment. We are proud of that. Resist Feeling FOMO! Stop what you are doing... Register Now at NICAinc.org: Click Events on the Menu and Scroll Down to NICA Marketplace “Together!”
May the Fall engage all your senses with the feel of cooler temperatures, the sight of warm colors, the taste of pumpkin spice, the sound of crunching leaves, and the smell of woodsmoke. See You Soon…
Association ANNOUNCEMENTS
Do you have any announcements you would like to share? Contact us at (813) 438-8926 or nica@nicainc.org
Our Condolences to the Brennan & Giordano Families
It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Judith Brennan, mother of Jennifer Giordano, CCE, Foundation Treasurer and Past Director, and grandmother of NICA Member Garrett Giordano, Apex Ceph, has passed away. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, who shared the following:
Judith Darlene Brennan, 81, of Cropwell, AL, passed away on Saturday, October 5, 2024. She was preceded in death by her husband J. Michael Brennan; sister Dolores LaFountain; brother Gerald Mason; and parents Delbert and Marguerite Mason. She is survived by her daughters Dawn Gliko (Larry), Lori Coray (Troy), and Jennifer Giordano (Ken); sisters Rita Graves (Dan), Darla Monseau (Don); brothers Richard Mason (Charlene) and Ken Mason (Jackie); grandchildren Andrew Gilmore, Garrett Giordano (Coreana), Ashton Giordano (Don), Blake Gilmore, Ashlyn Coray, Nicole Gliko, Carlee Gliko, and Brandon Giordano; and great-grandchildren Adam Gilmore and Nova Jane Giordano. The memorial service was held on Friday, October 11, 2024 at Chapel in the Pines with Pastor Wes Savage officiating. For those who couldn’t attend, condolences may be offered online at www.usreyfuneralhome.com ▲
2024 Hall of Fame Nominations Due November 20th
The NICA Hall of Fame award honors distinguished achievements and outstanding contributions by any individual to the health and well-being of NICA. This process is open to all NICA Members in good standing who have identified with NICA and the Fair and Event Industry for a minimum of ten years, and have supported NICA through leadership, education, legislation, technical service, and/or outstanding service to the associated industries and organizations serving the Fair and Event Industry. Dominic Palmieri, CCE, Past President, was the 2023 Hall of Fame Award Recipient (pictured with Rey O’Day, Past Hall of Fame Recipient). Each Hall of Fame Nominee must meet a level of criteria outlined at nicainc.org/halloffame. We are accepting Hall of Fame Nominations until November 20, 2024. “Together We Can!” ▲
Apply for a First Timer’s Convention Scholarship
Have you always wanted to attend a NICA Convention but just haven’t committed to it? Whether it be because of convention expense, timing, or any other reason, the NICA Foundation is here to help get you there! Up to five NICA Members will receive $500 each towards travel expenses when attending the 2024 NICA Marketplace “Together!” event in Las Vegas, NV or the 2025 NICA Business Expo in Tampa, FL. To qualify, you must be a first-time attendee to a NICA Convention, a current NICA Member, active in the Industry, and available to assist NICA during your convention of choice. Once you attend, you are also required to submit an article about your convention experience to NICA News. Apply online at nicainc.org/first-timers by October 31st for NICA Marketplace and/or December 31st for NICA Business Expo. ▲
NICA’s Goodyear Contact Has Changed
We are pleased to introduce our new Goodyear Representative, Victor Garnica, who will be replacing longtime program supporter Tim Koenigsfeld Tim served us well since the Goodyear Program’s inception in 2021, and we wish him the best in his new position! Victor will be your new contact for both signing up on the program and any inquires you may have. He said, “I am looking forward to working with the NICA Membership and learning more about the Fair Industry!”
NICA Members have access to Goodyear’s leading Consumer and Commercial Tires and Retreads with 24/7 Emergency Roadside Service (and more) at more than 5,700 locations, all at a competitive national price. For Consumer Tires, visit nicainc.org/goodyear20 to automatically apply a 20% coupon to your order. For Commercial Tires, complete the FREE Goodyear sign up form at nicainc.org/goodyear or contact Victor Garnica, Goodyear Sales Manager, at (816) 572-2553 or vgarnica@goodyear.com. ▲
Share Your News, Photos & More on NICA Live!
Have you joined us yet on NICA Live? NICA Live is focused on bringing live communication to the forefront of NICA. Scan this QR Code or visit facebook.com/groups/nicalive to join! We look forward to seeing your news, photos, and more. ▲
Dues Increasing in 2025
At NICA, we are always thinking about the future and how we can best represent our current and future membership as a Voice in the Industry for Independent Concessionaires. As we approach our 32nd year of forward-thinking and reinforcing the NICA Mission of strengthening relationships with the Fair, Festival, and Special Event Industries through effective Communication, Benefits, Education, Leadership, and Solutions, it continues to be important that our organization keeps pace with an ever-changing world.
As the first Concessionaire-founded and led national organization, NICA’s members continue to evolve as a Voice in the Industry for all Independent Concessionaires. To ensure NICA has the resources to support its work, our Board of Directors has decided to increase the annual membership fee by $25 starting January 1, 2025 for each level of membership, except for Employee and Retired Members. The Business Membership category will also be removed at that time. Since NICA’s inception in 1993, this is only the third increase to the member fee and the first in over eight years! For over 30 years, NICA has
and still successfully maintains the most affordable and valuable annual membership fee in the Industry. In 2024, NICA added the Commercial Exhibits Council, hosted and participated in over 40 gatherings and events nationwide, and continued their support of the CARE/RIDE Act. With the extra funding, we will be able to sustain and develop programs for the benefit of our membership and ensure our mission continues to thrive. The NICA Board of Directors looks to drive leadership within the organization to continue our Voice in the Industry, further develop our NICA Regional Councils, and maintain and grow our academic annual scholarship awards, while providing scholarships for first-time convention attendees, through the NICA Foundation
We invite you to renew your membership before January 1, 2025 at today’s rate of $150. You may also sign up for a three-year renewal option at $450 to keep today’s rate the same for the next three years. Thank you for your continued support and your investment in the NICA Mission “Together We Can!” ▲
Introducing Our New NICA Benefit
At a time when heightened security is becoming a fact of life, we are proud to introduce our newest NICA Benefit through Security Check Me, a company offering security solutions that are based on 35+ years’ experience in providing corporate security and investigative services to businesses, including Fortune 500 clients. Security Check Me provides a full suite of Pre-Employment Screening Services to include Criminal History Searches, Employment Verification, Education Verification, Credit Reports, Identity Checks, and Lab-Based Services such as Drug Screening and DOT Compliance in all 50 states.
Security Check Me will provide their National Tri-Eye Background Checks to NICA Members at a special discounted fee of only $13. Results for the background checks are returned instantly, requested via their secure website by each member who signs up. These checks include:
• Social Security Verification
• Address History
• Past Criminal Record
• Sexual Predator Update
• Patriot Watch List Warning
Additionally, Security Check Me offers customer service professionals who are available 24/7/365 by phone to assist with any questions or concerns that may arise after the results of a background check are received.
Bob Phifer, Security Check Me Managing Partner, will be your point of contact if you need assistance. Bob shared, “Security Check Me is honored to partner with NICA to offer the most reliable background information in the Industry. We look forward to providing NICA Members with 24/7 access and exceptional customer service to meet all their needs.” You can reach Bob at (813) 810-7907 or bphifer@securitycheckme.com.
How Does the Benefit Work?
Visit www.nicainc.org/securitycheckme to complete the sign up form. (Note: If you are a new customer, leave the “Company Name” blank.) Once your Security Check Me account is approved, you will receive an email link to add a password and finish your registration. Sign into your account, add your payment details, and choose your desired report. Results will be available instantly for most reports, and all previous reports (up to six years) will be available in your account. ▲
Cathy Grout
KC Concessions
Ware, MA (2019)
Paul Hansen
Hansen’s Festival Concessions
Evansville, MN (2011)
Jim Heron
Triple J Concessions
Woodbury, MN (2023)
Phillip Hull
Hull Concessions, LLC
Waco, TX (2007)
Marnie Ide
K&M Concessions
Burlington, WI (2023)
Michael Issa
Midwest Best Concessions
Kokomo, IN (2022)
Charles Ivory, CCE µ Famous Gabby’s, Inc.
Brooksville, FL (1993)
Bill Johnson Fantasy Amusement
Company / Arlington’s Best Concessions
Prospect Heights, IL (2010)
James Judkins
JKJ Workforce Agency, Inc. Harlingen, TX (2017)
Rick Kasinak
Pacific Coast Concession Cardiff By The Sea, CA (2021)
Norman Keene
Paulette’s Food Service Pinckneyville, IL (2003)
Dan & Laurie Keough
North Country Specialty Foods, Inc.
Colchester, VT (2017)
Sean Lepley Cumberland Valley Concessions Bedford, PA (2015)
Tony Lowery
Sue Sue’s Concessions Montegut, LA (2023)
Brian Lynn
Victor Products Co. Richmond, VA (2016)
Tod Marchant
Marchant Concessions
Summerland, BC (2012)
Vito Marotta
Porky’s BBQ Marston, MA (2023)
Donnie Massie
Alpine Amusement Co, Inc
Naperville, IL (2010)
Allen May
Beach Cities Wholesalers
Anaheim, CA (2022)
Shane McGrath
Royal Agricultural Society / Sydney Royal Easter Show
Sydney, NSW/Australia (2021)
Jen McGuire µ
Ventura County Fair Ventura, CA (1993)
Fran McLellan
McLellan’s Concessions / The Shrimp Shack Hudson, WI (2021)
Marty Miller
Alejandro’s Concessions Indianola, IA (2023)
Shawn Miller
Miller Foods Mauckport, IN (2018)
Jason Miller µ Schantz Mfg. Inc. Highland, IL (1993)
Jaylyn Napier
Eventeny
Peachtree Corners, GA (2023)
Mike Newman
Fruit Caboose Concessions Oroville, CA (2023)
Michael Olcott
Kern County Fair and Event Center
Bakersfield, CA (2020)
David Olivares
Kaliff Insurance
San Antonio, TX (2018)
Rick Oxford
Televac Products
MariBeth Paglia
Jeremy Parsons, CFE µ
Iowa State Fair
Des Moines, IA (1993)
Kevin Peck
Capitol Concessions
Carmichael, CA (2021)
Fred Pittroff
Giant Ride, Inc.
Balboa, CA (1995)
Stacey Pittroff-Barona, CCE
Giant Ride, Inc.
Roseville, MN (2015)
Tony Ponce
Tony’s Concessions
Sanger, CA (2023)
Raquel Pozzoli µ Miami-Dade County
Youth Fair & Exposition
Miami, FL (1993)
Jerry Price µ Fiske Concessions, Inc.
Brooksville, FL (1993)
Scott Pyle
Boji Custom Metal Works, Inc.
Spencer, IA (2023)
Katie Reidlinger
Fat Schlags, LLC
Silverton, OR (2023)
Andrew Ross
Ross Concessions
Dunnellon, FL (2022)
Carolyn Ross
Ross Concessions
Dunnellon, FL (2022)
Jeff Ross, CCE
Ross Concessions
Dunnellon, FL (1997)
Jay Rounds
Jake’s Foods LLC
Goshen, IN (2017)
Donna Ruhm
Donna Ruhm
Vista, CA (2022)
Samantha Sankovich
G & G Concessions
Baraboo, WI (2021)
Josh Seivers
Three Rivers Concessions
Sal Serio µ
Sal’s T-Shirt Company
Gulf Breeze, FL (1993)
Michelle Siggins
Sunshine Concessions of Hernando, Inc.
Homosassa, FL (2014)
Pam Simon µ
Minnesota State Fair
St. Paul, MN (1993)
Chad Smith
Smith’s
Stratford, IA (2023)
Nancy Smith, CFE µ
South Carolina State Fair
Columbia, SC (1993)
Stephen Swika III
Pies N Cakes
Scott Township, PA (2014)
James Stuhan
Southwest Concessions
Oregon Phoenix, AZ (2022)
Katherine Threatt
Eatery Huts
Fair Oaks, IN (2019)
George Tobias
Tobias Sky Entertainment
Fountain Hills, AZ (2023)
Devin Vaughn
Colorado State Fair
Pueblo, CO (2022)
Chris Wadsworth
Oregon City Optimist Club
Oregon City, OR (2023)
Mary Wagner, CCE µ
Treat Truck, Inc.
Hampton, MN (1993)
Brady Waite
GoCashless Corp
Napa, CA (2009)
Jason Warrenburg
Del Mar Fairgrounds
Del Mar, CA (2023)
Jay Wells, CCE
Wells Concession
Wichita, KS (2002)
Trent Wilkes
Wilkes Concessions
Versailles, MO (2005)
General Mills Monessen, PA (2023) “Renewals” continued from page 4 ►►
Grove City, PA (2008)
Linton, IN (2022)
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:
Pre-Skewered 6” (10/1) Hot Dog
Pre-Skewered 10” (6/1) Hot Dog
Chicken Hot Dogs 10# Box:
Pre-Skewered 6” (10/1) Hot Dog
Pre-Skewered 10” (6/1) Hot Dog
By "SPECIAL ORDER"
Pre-Skewered Bacon Wrap Hot Dog
Pre-Skewered Jalapeño & Cheddar Hot Dog
BBQ Pulled Pork Tubs (5-lb tubs) 20# Box
Lessons Learned
Transfer of Ownership
Mark and Laronda Becker recently retired after 30 years in the Concessions Business. Becker Concessions was famous for serving fresh Strawberry Smoothies and Jurassic Corn Dogs at Fairs in Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Oklahoma. They have two children and reside in Waterloo, IA. Mark and I recently got together for his daughter’s wedding and spent some time on the golf course.
First of all, congratulations on seeing your daughter Genae married! How does that make you feel as a father?
Happy and proud! My wife and I have a very good marriage and as parents, you want the same for your children. She married a good man who loves God and loves her. We are very thankful to have him as our son-in-law.
Your wife Laronda has been a huge help to you throughout your life. How did the two of you get into Food Concessions?
Laronda and I were newly married, going to a Bible college, and we needed extra money to get through college. I took the little money we had left, bought an old pop-up camper for $200 and gutted it out. We sold Snow Kones and Popcorn along with the deal of the day, which was always a Hot Dog and a Soda for $1. When we were out of town, we pitched our six-man tent for lodging. We started our marriage out right! After graduating from college, I took a well-paying corporate job. This job consumed my life and I had little time for my wife and children. I was absorbed by my work, which in part, was my fault. It’s my make-up. We both looked fondly back at our time working Concessions in college and how much fun it was working together, so we made a decision. At 40 years of age, I bought a Wells Cargo shell and fixed it up to give it another try. I booked 80 days that
first year and quit my corporate job to go full-time with Concessions. For the next two years after the Summer was over, I drove a school bus part-time, helped UPS during Christmas, and my wife worked at Casey’s making donuts. Starting out, as most know, is not for the faint of heart, but it was great for our family. You can’t put a price tag on that!
My first memory of your family was you asking my parents to pray for Laronda who was battling breast cancer. How did your faith get you through this difficult time?
Obviously, the diagnosis was heart-breaking and devastating. It was an aggressive type of cancer. Here we had finally gotten on our feet a bit and our first trailer from Century Industries was about ready for pick up. Once again, we had an unsure future but we knew who was in charge of it, so we trusted God to help us through it and He did. Through the cancer diagnosis, we also found a brain tumor. Before she could get chemotherapy for breast cancer, we had to have the tumor removed. It was in a risky area for surgery so they couldn’t get it all. But it is now 25 years later, and
Ryan Hagy, East Council
Shawna and Ryan Hagy, East Council and DeAnna’s Steak Sundaes, with Mark and Laronda Becker, Becker Concessions
even though she has some visual and physical impairments from the surgeries, she is alive and well. It’s a reminder of God’s faithfulness. He opened up many doors we could have only dreamed of and gave us a life we didn’t think was possible. Don’t get me wrong, there were some very discouraging and depressing moments, but we did not waiver in faith and God proved faithful! It sounds like your marriage has been through both trials and triumphs in the past 39 years. What are some things that young couples could apply to help their marriages?
You and your spouse each have different strengths. Don’t be upset at them for being weak in areas that you are strong in. Keep expectations in check. Be thankful that they are strong in areas in which you are weak. Don’t have pity parties after a difficult day of work. They only put unrealistic expectations on your spouse and your help; this business is hard! Say thank you for their hard work and don’t be negative to them. Look for the best in your spouse, not their shortcomings, and love them unconditionally. My love and respect for my wife has grown through the years, and she has handled the physical trials better than I ever could have. The cancer and surgeries have only deepened our love for one another. View your trials as opportunities to make your life better and your relationships deeper.
There are many Concessionaires getting ready to retire. What was your retirement/exit strategy?
Retirement happened quicker than I had planned. My kids were not interested in taking over the business and our longtime manager was retiring. I was at retirement age as well, and there appeared to be enough indicators that maybe it was time. Once again, it was a “God thing.” We decided to start the process of liquidating our business so we could enjoy some retirement years while we still had decent health.
This is a unique Industry with specialized equipment. Did you advertise the sale of your business/equipment or was it word of mouth?
While at the Fairs, I mentioned that retirement was on my mind during my interactions with Fair Managers and other Vendors. People who were interested in our Trailers and Route started approaching me. I kept good records which was important. If your business has any worth, the
buyer will likely need to get a loan from the bank. I used QuickBooks, so it was quite easy to pull up reports, along with end-of-the-year returns. What was the process of the new owners applying for your established locations?
The prospective buyer and I communicated with the Fair Managers to make them aware of the sale. The value of the sale largely depended on the route and locations that had been established through the years. Luckily, I sold the business to an established Vendor who was well known in the business with a good reputation. We had a very good reputation as well, so the Fairs were delighted to continue with the new owner.
What was the hardest part of the transition?
You put your own personal touch on the Trailer Design, Products, Logo, and Name. You’re always thinking of ways to improve and make things better, which is part of the joy and motivation of the business. After all the years of hard work and long hours to get it to this point, it was now leaving the lot and going to be someone else’s. Emotionally, it was almost like a death, leaving that empty feeling. I cried as I watched the trailers leave the lot. I loved the Fairs, the People, the fellow Vendors, the adrenaline rush, and the great feeling of the success. Now all of it was going to be behind me and I was starting a new chapter in life. It’s an unexplainable feeling. You’re happy, yet you’re not. I loved the business. If you’re fortunate enough to make it in this business, It’s one of the greatest businesses in the world.
As Concessionaires retire, someone needs to replace them. How can the Industry attract and retain new, younger Concessionaires?
I’m not sure there is much of a problem at this point. I think there is more of a problem if someone is wanting to start! There’s not a class you can take. Most young people who want to start are already up to their eyeballs in debt and are not able to make the investment to make a decent showing. When we started, we rented for $125 a month, sold our vehicle, bought a $500 pulling unit, and did all the work on the trailer. We wanted all the nice things, but we knew if we did, we would be working for someone else the rest of our life. You have to love the business, have somewhat of a natural gut for it, be willing to make sacrifices, and work ungodly hours to get there. If you do, you
can make it and Fairs will be delighted to have you. For the Industry to help, people who are interested will be contacting the Fairs for possible entry. Fairs and Festivals could have something to send to prospective Vendors who inquire to let them know what things they are looking for in new Vendors. If the Vendor is serious about the business, they will take the recommendations and run with it. There’s always a niche, too. This will be the third year now since I’ve sold the business, but my gut is telling me the Industry is making a shift and looking for more high-end offerings instead of just pulling product out of a freezer and dropping it in a fryer, or just dipping it and then frying it. It’s more work, but if you can come up with a few gourmet items and if your customers like it enough to have another, you will be successful, you will build a Clientele, and Fairs will want you.
Would you like to know more about this topic? View the
Now that you have successfully transitioned into retirement and look back, what would you have done differently with the business?
Nothing major. I have a good work ethic and I think I have good instincts for this type of business. I just wish I could have somehow been made aware of it earlier in life. The great feeling of starting a business, seeing it become successful, being your own boss, and working with my family is what dreams are made of. What a great country we live in, making it possible for us to make our way in this business. We are a blessed country!
What’s next for you?
Short and simple answer? I need to downsize. We have a big house and a big, empty workshop.
Thank you for your time! Do you have any final words to share with the NICA Membership?
I am “Thankful” for more than I have room to write. Thankful to all the Fairs, Friends, Employees, and loyal Customers that have all been a part of this amazing journey with us. It’s been an exhilarating ride! ▲
Join us at NICA Marketplace “Together!”
November 10-13, 2024 at the Tuscany Suites and Casino in Las Vegas, NV. This year we will feature a Non-Exclusive Trade Show, Educational Sessions led by Hands-On Event Industry Thought Leaders, and Networking Opportunities that are both welcome and comfortable— a place where we all understand we are Customers of each other and “Together” we share a Fair Guest to serve.
Thank You to Our Premier Sponsors
Early Bird Registration ends October 18th, but you can still register for $189 before the event! If you know you are coming, save yourself the extra $50 off Onsite Registration and register now. Visit nicainc.org/marketplace for everything on the event. See you in Vegas!
Now is the time to register! This show is affordable, offers great networking, and is lots of fun! This is also where we will work on solutions to the concerns coming out of 2024 with our Trade Show Exhibitors, Fair Leaders, and each other. Much more than a conference, this event is uniquely tailored to the needs of a vital group of Industry Professionals. We urge you to invite others to attend, too! Look around you. Who do you work with on a regular basis? It doesn’t matter if they are currently NICA Members , just get them to this show. They will be grateful that you did!
Sunday, November 10, 2024
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM: ServSafe Manager Class $70 Fee • Limited class size • Sponsored by NICA Foundation
2:00 – 6:00 PM: Registration Lanyards Sponsored by Forever Concession Trailers
Monday, November 11, 2024
7:30 AM – 5:00 PM: Registration
9:00 – 10:15 AM: Opening General Session featuring Keynote Speaker Jim Teece
10:30 AM – 1:00 PM: Educational Sessions
1:00 – 2:30 PM: Box Lunch (Included) & Roundtables Sponsored by GoCashless
2:45 – 5:00 PM: Educational Sessions & “How To” Workshops
5:15 – 8:00 PM: NICA Marketplace Trade Show & Happy Hour (Included)
7:30 PM: Generation Forward Gathering
Tuesday, November 12, 2024
8:00 – 11:00 AM: Registration
9:00 – 11:15 AM: Educational Sessions & “How To” Workshops
11:15 AM – 1:30 PM: NICA Marketplace Trade Show & Tailgate Lunch (Included)
1:30 – 3:00 PM: Educational Sessions & “How To” Workshops
3:00 – 4:15 PM: Training Temporary Labor
4:15 – 6:00 PM: Closing General Session, Industry Excellence Reception, CCE/Good Neighbor Awards & Champagne Toast (Included)
Champagne Toast Sponsored by Giant Ride & The Original Australian Battered Potatoes
Wednesday, November 13, 2024
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Sysco Las Vegas Tour, Chef Tastes & Lunch (Included)
• Action Lighting
• Aspire Bakeries
• Barbie Has Your Gator
• Beach Cities
• Berk Brands
• Branding Iron Holdings
• Concession Mall
• Eco-Labs/Products
• Encore Sausages
• Entegra
• Eventeny
• EZY Payroll
• Fare Foods
• Fiserv/Clover
• Frylow Sales
• General Mills
• Good Source Solutions
• Hummel Group
• Hyginix
• JKJ Workforce
• JLT & Co
• JTM Food Group
• The Langlois Company
• McCain Foods
• McGowan Allied
• Mi Amor—Just For You
• NICA
• OCC Signs
Subject to change; visit www.nicainc.org/marketplace and check NICA Now! for updates.
• Ocean Sales
• Pronto Pup
• Rosemary & Sage
• Schwan’s Food Service
• Simply Barbara
• Smithfield Foods
• Sysco
• Uncommon USA
• Windy Hill Mercantile
We are honored to introduce you to Jim Teece, Jackson County Fair Board Member and President and CEO of custom software company Project A. He will be delivering the Keynote Address in our Opening General Session this November at NICA Marketplace, with the theme “Moving Forward Together!” He will focus on both today’s and tomorrow’s challenges with connectivity, infrastructure, technology, and what that means for the Fair Industry as a whole.
Jim describes himself as a “parallel entrepreneur” and has served on the Jackson County Fair Board for the past 10 years. His passion for the County Fair experience, deep appreciation for the “Fair Partners,” and his leadership abilities helped make the Jackson County Fair one of the “Best in the West,” in part by creating new experiences for the Next Generation. Although he initially viewed himself as an introvert while “spending all of his time in front of the computer inventing the future,” little did he know that he would spend the next few decades “speaking to people every day.”
Jim and his wife Dena own and operate several companies that they run together—from a software company they started 34 years ago to the largest Independent Internet Service Provider in Southern Oregon, as well as being a leader in
• The Price of Food
• Prioritizing Infrastructure Upgrades
• Training Temporary Labor
• DOT Safety Updates with Buddy
• H-2B/CARE/RIDE Act Update
• Compelling Commercial Exhibits Enhance the Guest Experience
• Successfully Laying Out Empty Space
• Profits are in the Cup
the Museum Art Replica Industry and CustomPrinted Products. Jim said, “Our focus has always been mom-and-pop small businesses. We love entrepreneurs! They’re fun, exciting people.” They live on a 30-acre ranch in Ashland, OR with “lots of animals” and “high-speed wireless internet” to keep them connected: “It’s a wonderful place to raise a family and grow a business or six.”
Most recently, they created the Jim Teece and Dena Matthews Foundation, making charitable contributions in the areas of the arts, education, environment, and health. Jim said, “We have been giving back to the communities we served for decades and we wanted to build a foundation so that our kids could learn where and why we give, and hopefully continue our giving in perpetuity.”
Although he keeps busy as an entrepreneur, Jim is no stranger to NICA and the Fair Industry. Over the years he has spoken at many Industry Events held by IAFE, NICA, WFA, and State Associations on topics such as “Future-Proofing Your Business,” “Fair Attendance Attracting the Millennials,” and “Infrastructure, Technology, Connectivity, and Digital Commerce… Oh My!” We are excited to have Jim Teece join us during our Opening General Session, where we will start the day’s events by “Moving Forward Together!” He added, “Whatever you do, Do with Integrity, Wherever you go, Go as a Leader, Whomever you serve, Serve with Caring, Whenever you dream, Dream with your All, and Never, Ever Give Up!”
• Why Does a Vendor Choose Your Fair?
• Do We Really Need to Charge That Much?
• Buying Wisely Returns Profits
• See Something, Say Something—Safety and Security
• What Did I Miss in That MBA Program?
• The Next Generation Has Arrived—Let’s Meet Them
• And More!
info@focusedonconcessionaires.com
For over 60 years and three generations, RJ Schinner has been a leader in the wholesale distribution of plastic and paper packaging and disposables, proudly serving the food service, supermarket, and sanitation markets as a partner in success. As the largest independent redistributor in the US, our customers benefit from our enhanced flexibility, our quick to market operation, and the advantage we have of not being tied to Wall Street expectations like many of our competitors.
Investing in the Next Generation
The NICA Foundation was created by NICA to oversee and administer an Academic and Vocational Educational Scholarship Program, foster Development Opportunities and Training Services, and provide a Travel Stipend for FirstTime Convention Attendees. As you can see with last month’s focus on our Scholarship Recipients, many of these young people now have a chance to achieve their dreams! Of course, these programs would not be possible without the continued generosity of our donors. Nathan Marcus, West Coast Weenies, is one of those who embraced the challenge to change someone’s life for the better. After hearing from a Past Scholarship Recipient, he stood up at last year’s NICA Marketplace and vowed to donate $5,000 to the 2024 NICA Foundation Scholarship Program. Through that process, the Marcus Family Scholarship was created, along with increasing the General Scholarship Fund. We had a chance to speak with Nathan while he was busy making preparations for this year’s Big Fresno Fair. He shared, “With me it’s never a ‘good time,’ so you just have to find the time! Overall, the year’s been good, even if it’s been up and down. It’s pretty much the standard for us, but we’ve changed a few things that would help a little bit, too.” Nathan is a Third Generation Concessionaire who belongs to a long line of entrepreneurs out of the Southwest, beginning with his grandparents William and Faye Marcus and his parents Steve and Sandra Marcus: “That’s who I took over and purchased the company from, but I have quite a bit of family in the business including Aunt Carole, who continued operating Vic Marcus Concessions after my uncle passed away, and my sister Kayla.” Nathan knows the importance of investing in the Next Generation, too, as he and his wife Madina are raising their young daughter Ahryah. Nathan laughed, “She actually does work a little bit for us—modeling for advertising!”
Although West Coast Weenies has grown over the last 72 years, the family business
started out small, focusing on a handful of Fair Staples such as Corn Dogs and Hot Dogs. Since taking a leadership role over the last eighteen years, Nathan has widened their focus on a diverse set of operations over a multi-state footprint including California, Arizona, Nevada, Washington, Utah, New Mexico, and Colorado. He added, “We aren’t just what we specialize in anymore! I purchased a few companies in the Industry, so we now own Papa Gino’s Pizza, Monster Dog and Monster Grill, and Chillin’ & Grillin’ BBQ. I also created new concepts with The Grand Burger and The Korean Shack, which debuted this season. We may have different concepts, but they are large! We don’t have anything that is only for one event either; we have entire routes for each concept.” He couldn’t do it without the help of his dedicated management team that spearheads their routes farthest from home. Nathan said, “I make sure to visit every event, but I choose which ones to spend the most time at. It’s not always the biggest or best event either; it’s where the most oversight is needed. There are less problems when you are focusing on one location.” For each of these operations to differentiate themselves, they “stay within their lane” and focus on their specialties
Nathan and Madina Marcus with their daughter Ahryah
West Coast Weenies in its latest incarnation
per location. Nathan stated, “I’m the kind of guy that believes in ‘do what you do and do it well.’ If everyone focused on delivering their best quality products, all Vendors would do better, and the customers would benefit because there would be professionals in each product. Otherwise, offering generic versions of the top 10 items as a ‘greatest hits’ stand may confuse the customer. We are all customers of each other when you think about it!”
With so many moving parts, the biggest challenge for Nathan is how to keep it all running smoothly. He shared, “My number one challenge is staff, but making sure you have good management and your management is trained well is the most important. If you don’t have your management trained well, everything will fall apart from the inside out as you grow your business! You can train your basic staff, but they are ‘here today, gone tomorrow.’ You have to train your management to a point where they have the opportunity to grow within your sphere, so they will stay long term. I have to make sure my umbrella is big enough to cover their wants and wishes, or they will leave to pursue their own passions. You don’t want them to leave because it’s a huge hole to fill!”
Nathan was first introduced to the act of giving through a Management Conference he attended. While there, he witnessed a heartwarming presentation by the Make-A-Wish Foundation that featured one child who had his wish come true. According to them, kids were more likely to exceed their life expectancy due to Make-A-Wish, and in this case, make a full recovery. Nathan was so
moved by this event, along with an unexpected hospital visit by his wife, that he volunteered to donate to the cause right then and there: “It really brought a moment of clarity about how short life is and it made me appreciate the ability that I have to be able to help others. Ever since then, I’ve attached to things that can change people’s lives. I want to help one million people!”
One of Nathan’s latest causes includes the NICA Foundation Scholarship Program, where he hopes he can change the lives of the Next Generation: “I made the pledge because there was significance in that story. I thought, ‘Hey, this is something I could get behind—I want to donate!’ I want to help these people to help more people. There are not enough young people in this Industry that are willing to do this work due to the difficulty involved. If these kids don’t come into our Industry, at least it can help the Next Generation do whatever they are passionate about.”
For those who haven’t made the decision yet, Nathan has some words of advice. He shared, “This Industry has provided a great life for my family, and hopefully generations to come. I feel that it’s our responsibility as business owners, for those who can, to give back. At the end of the day, whatever you feel that you can donate, that amount of money will be gone from your pocket. Why not give it to someone in need? It’s always been a passion of mine to help other people, and it’s the reason I have been growing my company. Any kind of monetary value that will help somebody change their life is a value worthwhile.” ▲
Nathan’s newest venture, The Korean Shack
Gatherings Galore!
What an incredible season it’s been! With record-breaking attendance at events this year, NICA’s Board of Directors and Regional Councils continued their traditions of NICA Gatherings designed to offer Food and Beverage Vendors, Commercial Exhibitors, Fair Staff, and other participants a chance to escape the sun, enjoy food and refreshments, socialize, and even win prizes! Throughout the 2024 Fair Season, NICA hosted and participated in over 40 NICA Gatherings at Fairs nationwide, providing meals, fundraising opportunities, benefit updates, giveaways, and fellowship for over 2,000 attendees. As Summer drew to a close, the gatherings showed no signs of stopping in August and September, with coast-to-coast events held at Bloomsburg Fair, Clay County Fair, Iowa State Fair, Minnesota State Fair, Oregon State Fair, The Big E, The Sandwich Fair, and Wisconsin State Fair. We are grateful to everyone who attended and supported these events and look forward to more opportunities to come together next season!
Gathering Together at Midwest Fairs
The first gathering of the season for the Midwest Council was held on August 8th at Blue Moon Tavern at the Park during the Wisconsin State Fair Sandy Class, CCE, Midwest Council and Past President, organized the event and invited NICA Members and Fair Staff to gather for some fun and fellowship. All in all, around 35 NICA Members and other Vendors and Staff were in attendance. The event planners tried out an earlier time and featured a speaker system, which enhanced the event according to past attendees.
Wisconsin State Fair’s Shari Black, CFE, CEO, greeted everyone and spoke on behalf of the Fair, which had a 9% increase in attendance this year! She also spoke on the importance of the CARE/ RIDE Act and her participation in the Industry Fly-In to DC this year in support of the legislation. We were also pleased to have Lisa Immel, Food and Beverage Manager, Beth Pomije, Vendor Services Account Manager, and Chris Walden, Midway Coordinator for SpinCity, in attendance. Sandy Class, CCE reemphasized Shari’s call to action on labor, and spoke on NICA’s benefits, highlighting cost-saving programs such as Sherwin-Williams and Sysco. She also shared the amount of awards that the NICA Foundation was giving out to Scholarship Recipients, and highlighted the main reasons to attend NICA Marketplace “Together!” The event ended with our signature prize opportunities including a Free NICA Marketplace Registration, which went to George Atsidakos, The Minneapple Pie. Thanks to Sandy Class, CCE and Beth Owens, Tavern at the Park, for their continued hospitality and their tasty Tavern Taters!
The Midwest Council’s second gathering of the season, taking place on August 13th during the Iowa State Fair, was hosted by the Campbell’s Concessions Family at The Depot and organized by the Midwest Council’s James McConnell and Matt Ribar. Even with the Fair’s record-setting attendance making the event as busy as ever, about 50 NICA Members and their Staff were still able to gather for snacks and refreshments donated by the members. There was also a drawing for a Free NICA Marketplace Registration won by NICA Member Brad Magg, of Side Door
Attendees applauding Larry McConnell, CCE and NICA at the Iowa State Fair Gathering
Concessionaires and Fair Staff enjoying fellowship at the Clay County Fair Gathering
Concessions, along with a multitude of Door Prizes. The attendees were greeted by NICA Leadership including James McConnell, Midwest Council and NICA Foundation, who gave an update on NICA, Andrew Schoendienst, Luehrs Ideal Rides, who spoke on the Carnival Industry, and Larry McConnell, McConnell Concessions, who encouraged everyone to donate to the NICA Foundation (yielding close to $1,000). Also in attendance was Marla Calico, CFE, IAFE President and CEO, Jeremy Parsons, CFE, Iowa State Fair Manager, James Romer, CFE, Concessions and Midway Operations Director, Jo Reynolds, CFE, Warren County Fair Manager and IAFE Chair, along with Iowa State Fair Board Members. A big NICA thank you to the Campbells for offering us the space, time, food, and beverages!
At the end of August, there was a very successful Sixth Annual Gathering of NICA Members at the Minnesota State Fair on August 27th. A very social group of 75 or so had a very pleasant evening, socializing and enjoying a wonderful Prime Rib Dinner, generously sponsored by Nate and Stephanie Janousek at their 1920s airplane-themed eatery, The Hangar We would also like to thank Sysco for their sponsorship! Minnesota State Fair’s General Manager Renee Alexander welcomed the crowd and thanked them all for their stellar work in producing and offering some of the best Fair Foods in the country. Pam Simon, CFE, Sales Director, also greeted and shared her appreciation for us. We had the privilege of having Midway Supervisor Jim Sinclair, CFE, as well as Deputy
Matt Ribar speaking to the group at Clay County
Manager Wally Levesseur, CFE in attendance. Surprise guests, all the way from OC Fair, included Linda Keasberry, and Kimber Merati. Jay Wells, CCE, NICA 1st Vice President, hosted the gathering and thanked guests for their membership and the success of the NICA Foundation this year, offering 31 scholarships to the Youth of the Industry. All in all, it continues to be a very enjoyable event!
In September, one of the last NICA Midwest Gatherings of the season was held on September 11th at Iowa’s Clay County Fair with Matt Ribar, Midwest Council, Jeff Thornberry, CCE, Commercial Exhibits Council Coordinator, and Clay County’s Fair Staff being instrumental in planning the event. Approximately 40 NICA Members, Fair Staff, including Commercial Exhibits Director Janet Schutter, and members of the Fair Board gathered at the Coca-Cola Hospitality Tent to enjoy fellowship, pizza, and hear from NICA Leadership and Fair CEO Jerome Hertel. He shared some positive words with the group, expressing the Fair’s gratitude for our attendance, as well as their pride in supporting NICA and other organizations in the Industry. They also understood how crucial it is for us to arrive prepared when we get together, and they were very happy to help. Thank you to everyone who was able to come during a busy Fair!
Each Council Held a “First-Ever” Gathering!
On the evening of August 28th, West Council Coordinators Don Delahoyde, CCE and Julie Dunn organized their first-ever Oregon State Fair Gathering at Bahama Brian’s with the help of West Council’s Alan Harrington and Nathan Wells, CCE
Jeff Thornberry, CCE updating Clay County Fair attendees about NICA Marketplace
A view of the crowd at the Minnesota State Fair Pam Simon, CFE, Minnesota State Fair Sales Director
Renee Alexander, CFE, Minnesota State Fair General Manager
Don Delahoyde, CCE showing off the many prizes available at the Oregon State Fair Gathering
Free Marketplace Registration winner Maddie Kansky New Members joining at The Sandwich Fair!
It was a very well attended event with over 40 people in total. Kim Grewe-Powell, Oregon State Fair CEO also attended, and the crowd heard greetings from Don Delahoyde, CCE, Council Coordinator, and Fair Staff. Congratulations to Maddie Kansky, Oregon State Fair Vendor Coordinator, who won the Free NICA Marketplace Registration. Thank you to our event sponsors, A Pop Above, Big Jim’s Concessions, Pacific Crest Concessions, Sweet Cheeks, We Have Your Flag, and Oregon Beverage, for your help with the event.
The Midwest Council’s first NICA Gathering at The Sandwich Fair took place on a sunny day outside the Round House on September 5th, organized by Council Members Bruce Kozelou and Mickey Venegas. They also handled most of the speaking duties as attendees enjoyed snacks and refreshments. They had a great attendance with 45 New Friends and Fair Staff on hand. Four New Members signed up right there, and David Belcher won the Free NICA Marketplace Registration congratulations! Thank you to everyone who was able to make it and we look forward to next year.
The East Council held their First Annual Bloomsburg Fair Gathering on September 23rd at Royer’s Concessions, organized by Bary Bunts, CCE, representing both the East Council and the NICA Board. After nearly 13 hours of continuous rain during the Fair, everyone was rather damp and cold by the time it started, but they soon warmed up! Special thanks to Susan Holly Nichols of 5centride for Door Prizes and Tammy Royer, Jerry Snyder, and Jason Bartlebaugh for Food and Drinks. We appreciate everyone who came out!
Tammy Royer and Jerry Snyder greeting guests in Bloomsburg
Bary Bunts, CCE with winner Bob Kolar
Mickey Venegas with winner David Belcher
Another “Game Changer” at Bingo Night!
A couple of days before The Big E opened in West Springfield, MA, on September 11th, the East Council called together NICA Members and guests for a night of cutthroat competition, great food, and fun prizes. Thanks to our many generous sponsors, Mellowship Entertainment, Porky’s BBQ, Somerset Foods, Bernadino’s Bakery, Lattitude Restaurant, and so many more, we had our biggest year yet! There were over 30 Mystery Prizes, over 70 people, more Bingo Cards than we could count, and some great food. As the night rolled on, the competition grew as prizes included Car/Trailer Wash Supplies, Gift Certificates, Kitchen Gadgets, Tools, and many, many more! Feedback from attendees was that the new Bingo Cards were “Game-Changing,” making this one of the best Council events they had attended, and they look forward to many more! The Council introduced another “Game Changer” this year with the new, and final High Stakes Round, that was run as a 50/50. Participants could buy into the Coverall game, and the first one to fill their entire board went home with substantial cash winnings! Join Us Next Time at a Fair Near You!
If you haven’t been able to attend our Regional Council events this season, we hope you consider joining us when we come through again next season. On the other hand, if you wish we would come to your event, let us know! We are looking forward to the next season for more opportunities for NICA Members to create a new tradition. ▲
A packed house during Bingo Night Gino and Victoria Orlandi, Poppie’s Concessions, calling Bingo numbers
From the Camera Roll... From the Camera Roll...
Bary Bunts, CCE, NICA Secretary, at Canfield Fair with Karen Rutana, Rutana Concessions: “We were running around putting out some opening day fires!”
Rey O’Day, Executive Director, visiting with Past President Adam McKinney at the Tulsa State Fair
George
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Have you attended a NICA-related event? Send your photos or coverage to communications@nicainc.org
Atsidakos
The Original Minneapple Pie, at The Sandwich Fair
Kim Barr, CCE, President, sold three Side-By-Side Tickets while out on the road this Summer!
Julie Dunn, West Council Coordinator, and Hunter Manzo, A Pop Above, at the Oregon State Fair
Mickey Venegas, Midwest Council,
Duane Hickman, CCE, Quality Concessions, laughing in Illinois
Dominic Palmieri, CCE, Past President, and Melanie Linnear, State Fair of Texas
Sam Zaffuto, Zaffuto’s Panini Stand, Maria Zaffuto, Sweet Adventure Concessions, and Roy Porter, The Apple Cart, enjoying each other’s company at the Bloomsburg Gathering last month
Hand Tossed Pizza Crust
NATIONAL INDEPENDENT CONCESSIONAIRES ASSOCIATION, 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
q Mr. q Mrs. q Ms. First Name: Last Name: Name of Business:
Physical Address: City : State: Zip:
Mailing Address: City : State: Zip:
Primary Phone Number : Cell / Secondary Phone Number : Email: Website:
Age Range: q 20-35 q 35-50 q 51-70 q 70+ q Other : NICA News Preference: q Mail q Email Referred by :
ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEES
REGULAR MEMBERSHIP
q Regular Member
$150
q Additional Member $100
q Employee Member $75
q Retired Member $50
BUSINESS / GROUP MEMBERSHIP
Includes five Memberships in one: one Regular Member, one Additional Member, and three Employee Members ($475 value).
q Business / Group ............................................................ $400
Additional Member :
Employee Member 1:
Employee Member 2:
Employee Member 3:
REGULAR MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES
Check a category below and provide a detailed description of your company’s services in the next column under Business Description.
q Food / Beverage
q Commercial Exhibitors / Retail / Merchants
q Attractions / Entertainment
q Games
q Guest Services
GENERAL ROUTING INFORMATION
List all states / provinces where you conduct your business.
ACCIDENTAL DEATH & DISMEMBERMENT INSURANCE
The NICA-sponsored $10,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance Policy is provided to Regular Members. List a beneficiary and a phone number below.
Beneficiary : Phone :
ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP
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
BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
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.
PAYMENT
q Cash q Check q Money Order #: q Visa q Mastercard q American Express q Discover
Credit Card #: Security Code: Expiration Date: TOTAL: Signature of Credit Card Holder For Off ice Use Only Date: #: q Member Renewal
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.
AUTOMATIC RENEWAL OPTION
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 automatic renewal payments prior to my next renewal month. Applicant’s signature Date
National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc.
1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511
Sensitive Mail • October 2024 Issue
